Temple of Poseidon
Cape Sounion, Sounion, Greece, 195 00
Dramatically positioned on the coastal cliffs of Cape Sounion, this temple is one of the most evocative sites of ancient Greece. It’s dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea, and dates back to the 5th century BC. Today, all that remains of the magnificent structure is a series of gleaming white marble columns, standing proudly atop the cape and overlooking the Aegean Sea.
The basics
Whether taking a sunset cruise around Cape Sounion, driving the scenic coastal road along the Attica peninsula, or enjoying the panoramic views from the cliff tops, there are a number of options for visiting the ancient temple. One of the most popular ways to visit is on a day trip from Athens, and many tours also stop at the idyllic beaches along the Attica Riviera or include a romantic dinner in Vouliagmeni Bay. For the best value, combine a Cape Sounion tour with an Athens bus tour, a walking tour of the Athens Acropolis, or a day trip to Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Things to know before you go
Wear comfortable shoes, as the 5th century BC ruins are situated on uneven ground.
Bring your swimsuit—there's a beach for swimming at the foot of the cape.
Parts of the temple are accessible to those with limited mobility, and wheelchair-accessible guided tours are available.
Many of the temple’s artifacts, including the statue of Poseidon, can be viewed in the Archaeological Museum of Athens.
How to get there
The Temple of Poseidon is located at the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, about 43 miles (70 kilometers) southeast of Athens. Public buses run from Athens to Sounion, but visiting on a group or private tour means you can enjoy the wonderful drive and stop at towns such as Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, or Lagonisi along the way.
When to get there
The most popular time to visit the Temple of Poseidon is during summer, but the site can get crowded. Visiting in the early morning is the best way to avoid the crowds and the midday heat, while the most atmospheric time for photos is at sunset.
Alternatively, an off-season visit, in still-balmy May or September, might mean you get the ruins to yourself. The Temple of Poseidon is open from 9:30am until the sun sets. If you want to see the temple in all its glory at golden hour, book the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Sunset Tour with Audio Guide.
What to see at the Temple of Poseidon
Thought to have been built by Iktinos, the architect who designed Athens' ancient Agora, the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece. Today, only 16 of the original 34 Doric columns remain, one of which is famously inscribed with the name Lord Byron, who visited the temple in the early 19th century. Additional highlights include the remains of a propylaeum and the Temple of Athena, while the real star of the show is the splendid view, which stretches as far as the Cyclades and Peloponnese islands.
Ways to explore
Whether you take a cruise around Cape Sounion or join a sunset driving tour of the Athenian Riviera, there are a number of options for visiting the Temple of Poseidon. One of the most popular ways to experience it is on a day trip from Athens, with additional stops to see Lake Vouliagmeni or have a Greek meal by the sea. For the best value, book a combination tour of Athens and Cape Sounion, so you can explore heavy hitters such as the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium, and Temple of Poseidon all in one day.
Accessibility
Due to uneven terrain, only some of the temple’s viewing areas are accessible to those with limited mobility. Many providers offer wheelchair-accessible tours of the site.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Besides water and a camera, bring your swimsuit and sunscreen—there’s a beach nearby on the cape.
What to wear
There’s no shade at the archaeological site, so dress accordingly and wear comfortable walking shoes for the hilly landscape.
Not allowed
Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets, smoking, or alcohol.
Amenities
Gift shop, parking, informational panels, restroom
Address
The Temple of Poseidon is about 40 miles (62 kilometers) southeast of Athens, at the southern tip of the Attica peninsula. You can get there by car or bus, but visiting on a guided tour that includes transportation is the best way to enjoy the coastal views and stop at attractions such as Lake Vouliagmeni along the way.
Driving
There are a couple of routes from Athens to Cape Sounion, but the most scenic option is to follow EO91 south along the coast. The drive takes about 1.5 hours each way—or slightly longer if you stop at Lake Vouliagmeni.
Public transportation
The KTEL Attikus bus runs from the Pedion Areos square in Athens to the Temple of Poseidon and takes about 2 hours. Departure and return times are limited, so plan ahead.
Best times to visit
The seaside temple is at its most atmospheric—and packed with visitors—at sunset. For fewer crowds and to beat the midday heat, go first thing in the morning.
Best days to visit
Save money by visiting the temple on free-admission days, listed on the attraction’s website, or go whenever the weather is clear and sunny—the archaeological site is open every day.
Best months to visit
April–May and September–October, when it’s warm enough to take in Cape Sounion’s coastal landmarks without burning under the summer sun, are the best times to visit the Temple of Poseidon.
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