Sounion is a fantastic day-trip destination because it combines striking ancient ruins with breathtaking coastal scenery. Whether you’re soaking up history at the Temple of Poseidon or enjoying a boat ride around the Athenian Riviera, these tours offer a well-rounded taste of what makes this area special. Our favorites include a private full-day city and Cape Sounion trip that mixes cultural highlights with seaside views, as well as a luxurious private cruise that lets you unwind on crystal waters. Each offers a different way to experience Greece’s beauty — from personal attention on land to floating in the Aegean.
If you’re after a comprehensive experience that blends city highlights with sunset dinners, Tour #1 is a perfect choice. Alternatively, for those who want history and scenic beaches with minimal fuss, Tour #2 provides a flexible private journey. For travelers craving a mix of adventure and relaxation on the water, Tour #3 offers a private yacht experience for exploring the Athens Riviera in style. Whatever your style, these tours highlight the diverse ways to experience Sounion and its surroundings.
Quick Overview
We’ve selected three excellent full-day tours in Sounion, each with its own flavor:
- A private city and Cape Sounion trip that includes hotel transfers, city sights, and seaside sunset views (more details).
- An Athens to Cape Sounion tour offering both half and full-day options, focusing on the Temple of Poseidon, scenic beaches, and local towns (more details).
- An exclusive private cruise that explores the Athens Riviera’s islands, caves, and beaches with swimming and sightseeing (more details).
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each, helping you pick the one that fits your style and budget best.
1. Athens: Private Full-Day City Sights and Cape Sounio Trip
At number 1 on our list, this private full-day tour offers a personalized way to see the best of Athens and Cape Sounion in one go. Starting with pickup from your hotel, you’ll travel in a comfortable car with your own driver, making the experience flexible and stress-free. The itinerary includes a thorough exploration of Athens’ top sights, such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and perhaps the changing of the guard. After soaking up city history, you’ll head south along the Athenian Riviera, with stops at the stunning Vouliagmeni Lake for photos and a chance to enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
This tour is especially appealing because it includes hotel transfers, snacks, water, and free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. The highlight is reaching Cape Sounion late afternoon, where you’ll witness the Temple of Poseidon at sunset — a moment famed for its spectacular lighting and peaceful vibes. You can also enjoy a dinner as the sun dips below the horizon, wrapping up your day perfectly.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimacy; with just your group of up to four, you get tailored attention and flexibility. The reviews praise its professionalism and ease: “Our driver was knowledgeable and made the day effortless.” Plus, at a price of $429 per group, it offers excellent value for a private, personalized experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for couples or small groups who want a seamless, luxurious day combining city sights, scenic drives, and sunset views with all logistical worries taken care of.
2. Athens to Cape Sounion Tour – Half Day & Full Day Options
For those seeking a flexible, private exploration of Cape Sounion, the Athens to Cape Sounion Tour is a top pick, earning a perfect 5/5 review score. With options for a half-day or full-day, this tour gives you control over how much time you spend at each stop. The main focus is the Temple of Poseidon, which you will visit privately, avoiding the crowded group tours. The tour also includes drives along the scenic Athenian Riviera, stopping at beaches like Voula and Vouliagmeni, as well as exploring lively town centers such as Glyfada and Vouliagmeni.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens, making it especially practical. The itinerary is customizable: you could spend more time at the temple or relaxing on a beach, depending on your interests. The full-day option (around 8 hours) is perfect for those wanting a relaxed pace, while the half-day (about 4 hours) suits travelers on a tighter schedule.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the flexibility to choose what interests them most. The tour is priced at $286 for up to four people, a fair price given the private nature and inclusions. The only potential downside is that it requires some advance planning to select the best starting time, but booking is straightforward.
Bottom line: This is a versatile tour for travelers who want a private, tailored experience that combines history, scenic drives, and beach visits, all at a reasonable price.
3. The Athenians – Full Day Private Cruise to Athens Riviera
At number 3, this luxury private cruise offers a different perspective: exploring the Athens Riviera from the water. Designed for up to nine people, this 8-hour yacht trip takes you to hidden beaches, caves, and the Vouliagmeni area, often called the “capital” of the Riviera. Starting from one of three pickup points — Athens, Glyfada, or Vouliagmeni — you’ll board a private vessel for an adventure on the sea.
The itinerary includes swimming in the clear waters of nearby islands, exploring caves, and relaxing on secluded beaches. The guide (and boat crew) are eager to customize your experience, making it ideal for those who want a luxurious, private escape. And since the boat is yours, you can swim, take photos, or just lounge in comfort.
Guests describe the experience as “unforgettable,” praising the crystal-clear waters and secluded spots only accessible by boat. This tour’s price of $1,129 reflects its exclusivity and the high level of comfort. It’s best suited for groups celebrating special occasions or travelers who prioritize privacy and leisure over sightseeing.
Bottom line: For those who want to combine the luxury of a private boat with the chance to explore the Athens coastline intimately, this cruise is a memorable choice — especially if you value exclusivity and comfort.
How to Choose
Choosing the right full-day tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you want a luxurious, all-in-one day with city sights and sunset, the private city and Cape Sounion trip (more info) is a perfect fit. For a more flexible, private exploration focused on beaches and history, the Athens to Cape Sounion (more info) offers excellent value. And if you’re dreaming of cruising in style around Athens’ islands, the private yacht (more info) provides an upscale, private way to experience the coast.
Factors like budget, group size, and preference for land-based sightseeing or sea adventures should guide your choice. Book early, especially for the yacht cruise, as demand can be high during peak season.
Final Thoughts
From intimate private tours to luxurious boat adventures, Sounion offers a variety of full-day options to suit different travelers. For an all-encompassing experience with cultural highlights and sunset magic, the Private Full-Day City Sights and Cape Sounio Trip is hard to beat. If you prefer a flexible, personalized land tour that hits beaches and landmarks, the Athens to Cape Sounion tour fits perfectly. And for a once-in-a-lifetime sea adventure, the private cruise allows you to relax and explore the Athens coast in style.
No matter your choice, booking in advance is wise — especially during high season. With these options, you’re set to enjoy everything Sounion has to offer, from ancient ruins to sparkling waters.