From Piraeus Port: Athens, Temple of Poseidon & Sounio Beach

8 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover two very different sides of Greece in one thoughtfully designed shore excursion. Begin with a taste of ancient and modern Athens, where a panoramic drive and short guided walks introduce the city’s most iconic landmarks and the stories that shaped Western civilization.

Leaving the city behind, travel south along the scenic Athenian coastline, with views of the sea, cliffs, and natural landscapes that often surprise first-time visitors. Enjoy scenic stops along the way, including the unique thermal Lake Vouliagmeni, before arriving at Cape Sounio.

Here, admire the Temple of Poseidon dramatically perched above the Aegean Sea, then enjoy generous free time at Sounio Beach to swim, relax, or savor lunch by the water at your own pace.

Designed for cruise travelers, this well-paced tour blends history, scenery, and leisure, with comfortable transportation and a timely return to your ship.

What's Included

Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned bus
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Professional local English-speaking tour guide
Free time for a meal on Sounio Beach (at your own expense)
Pick-up and drop-off at Piraeus Cruise Ship Port
24/7 Customer support, assistance with other arrangements and tours
Gratuities: We recommend 10% for guides and 5% for bus drivers.
Food and drinks

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Cruise Terminal B - Piraeus

Your ship will dock at Terminal A, B, or C. Please remain at the entrance of your designated terminal after disembarking. Look for our team holding signs that read 'VEXPERIO'.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Port of Piraeus

    As soon as you disembark, our friendly team will be waiting to welcome you right at the cruise terminal. You’ll be guided to a modern, comfortable, air-conditioned bus -your gateway to an unforgettable journey. Sit back and relax as we take you through the captivating history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Athens and Sounio. Your adventure begins the moment you step ashore!

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Pasalimani (Pass by)

    As you depart from Piraeus Port, your journey begins with a scenic drive past the charming Pasalimani harbor, bustling with yachts and sailboats, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage.

    Admission ticket free
  • Mikrolimano (Pass by)

    As you continue, you'll pass the picturesque Mikrolimano, a charming harbor much like Pasalimani. Time permitting, there will be a brief photo stop, giving you the chance to capture the stunning sea and city views.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Areopagus Hill

    Next, you will get off the bus and follow your guide to Areopagus Hill, a historic site that once hosted Athens’ high court and major political and philosophical debates. Today, it offers insight into the city’s past along with stunning panoramic views of the Acropolis and Athens below.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Odeon of Herodes Atticus

    You’ll continue the guided walk to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Herodion), a magnificent stone theatre on the southern slopes of the Acropolis. Built in 161 AD by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, it remains one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Panathenaic Stadium

    Then, you'll see the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), a magnificent ancient Greek stadium steeped in history. Famous as the site of the Panathenaic Games, it stands as a testament to Greek athleticism and cultural pride, remaining a cherished symbol of Greece’s rich heritage and a must-see attraction.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Presidential Mansion

    Next, you will see the Presidential Mansion, the official home of Greece’s President, where the elite Evzones carry out their iconic daily guard-changing ceremony.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus (Pass by)

    Next, you'll pass the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, its towering columns offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Athens.

    Admission ticket free
  • Arch of Hadrian (Pass by)

    As you continue your journey, you'll pass the Arch of Hadrian, a magnificent gateway built in honor of Emperor Hadrian that once marked the boundary between ancient and Roman Athens.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6
    The Academy of Athens

    Next, you'll pass the University of Athens, Greece’s oldest university, known for its elegant neoclassical architecture. Nearby, the National Library and the Academy of Athens,featuring statues of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, complete the architectural trilogy. Time permitting, there will be a photo stop to capture these iconic landmarks.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Lake Vouliagmeni

    After leaving Athens behind, enjoy a scenic drive along the southern coast before stopping at Lake Vouliagmeni, a unique natural thermal lake set among rocky cliffs and lush greenery. This peaceful location offers a refreshing change of scenery and a moment to take in the natural beauty of the Athenian Riviera.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Temple of Poseidon

    After a scenic drive south along the coast, arrive at Cape Sounio, where the Temple of Poseidon stands dramatically above the Aegean Sea. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering changing landscapes and beautiful coastal views as you leave the city behind. At Cape Sounio, the Temple of Poseidon is admired from outside the archaeological site. From selected viewpoints, you can enjoy sweeping sea views and excellent photo opportunities, allowing you to fully appreciate the setting and scale of this iconic monument without entering the grounds.

    15 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 9
    Sounio Beach

    Finally, you’ll arrive at the beautiful Sounio Beach, a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. You’ll have 1.5 hours to relax, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a delicious lunch featuring authentic Greek cuisine (at your own expense). Whether you want to take a refreshing dip, stroll along the shore, or simply savor the stunning coastal views, this stop offers the perfect mix of relaxation and local flavor to end your day.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 10
    Port of Piraeus

    At the end of the tour, you’ll be returned to your cruise ship, taking with you memories to last a lifetime. Let this experience make your day in Athens truly special. The drive back from Sounio Beach to the port will take approximately 1.5 hours.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Please note that this tour involves walking, including on uneven surfaces, and is not suitable for individuals with mobility limitations. Wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, or similar mobility aids cannot be accommodated. We kindly ask you to assess your ability to participate before booking, as refunds cannot be issued if, on the day of the tour, you are unable to join due to mobility-related concerns.
  • Meeting point: Your ship will dock at Terminal A, B, or C. Please remain at the entrance of your designated terminal after disembarking. Look for our team holding signs that read 'VEXPERIO'.
Supplied by Vexperio

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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Port Transfers
Walking Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Shore Excursions

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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