Temple of Poseidon

Cultural landmark ·

Temple of Poseidon

Cultural landmark ·

Ancient temple dedicated to sea god, stunning sunset views

Information

Sounion 195 00, Greece Get directions

@matadornetwork

1,344 Postcards · 345 Cities

Day Trips in Athens

"It’s not a coincidence that ancient Greeks picked this magnificent spot on Cape Sounio to build a temple for Poseidon, the ancient god of the sea. Located on the southernmost tip of Attica, about 40 miles away from Athens, the Temple of Poseidon overlooks the royal blue Aegean Sea from three sides. Built with marble, this major monument was also embellished with sculptures, some of which are in the Archaeological Museum of Lavrion, about six miles away, and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.The temple is 230 feet above sea level and overly exposed to sea breezes. So, if you visit during the autumn or winter months, dress warmly. For your summer itinerary, leave Athens early in the morning and cool off in the emerald waters of one of the Cape’s beaches, such as the unspoiled Legrena beach or the pocket-sized Kavokolones, just beneath the temple. Then, treat yourself to a fresh seafood lunch in any of the local tavernas on the coasts of Anavyssos or Thimari, and arrive at the temple just before sundown to capture an exquisite sunset.Cape Sounio is one of the most accessible destinations from Athens. Catch the bus from the KTEL Bus Terminal on Alexandras Avenue close to Pedion Areos park, or from the city center, near Syntagma. To enjoy the route along the coastal suburbs of Glyfada, Saronida, and Anavyssos leisurely, rent a car, but be mindful of the multiple sharp bends." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/europe/greece/athens/day-trips/

MATADOR_NETWORK

Temple of Poseidon

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"The Temple of Poseidon, at Sunset The Temple of Poseidon, perched on the edge of Cape Sounion, has long been a welcoming sign of "home" for sailors returning to Athens. The 5th-century BC structure is dedicated to the god of the sea, and it's just a quick drive from downtown Athens. If you happen to come here at sunset, you won't be disappointed."

One Week in Greece

Photo by Candice Walsh

Temple of Poseidon

Ana R.

Google

Wonderful experience, only the sunset was a let down, but its not the place's fault, they cant control nature. A bit expensive entrance - 20€ - since all you see is one building in ruins but its beautiful and one of the best places to see the sunset near athens.

Janice K.

Google

The trip was about an hour and a half from where i'm staying.But after you get out of the hustle and bustle, the trip was awesome. A lot of places you could pull over and take pictures or just pull over and go down to the shore. The temple itself was twenty euros, which seemed kind of high.But I did have a good time and got plenty of pictures.

Madison H.

Google

The temple is beautiful, but the tickets are a little expensive for how much time you can actually spend here. This is definitely one of the best places you can watch the sunset from, though. We went on a semi-cloudy day, and even then the sunset was stunning. There is also a cafe that is nice to take some time to relax at, since if you're staying in Athens it is a bit of a drive.

Lyubov T.

Google

A beautiful place in itself, but the unjustifiably high price of €20 made us turn back and take a free walk in another part of the peninsula, where the views were just as breathtaking. Is the price of watching the sunset — even next to such a stunning temple — really comparable to the entrance fee for Mycenae, Corinth, or Epidaurus, where, in addition to the ruins, you also visit a museum and get a wealth of information? A highly promoted tourist spot — deservedly so for its amazing views, but not for its price.

Stephen A.

Google

A wonderful place to enjoy sunset, in the grounds of the 6th century BC (destroyed, and rebuilt 488BC) Temple of Poseidon. Free to enter for EU residents (take proof/passport), 20 Euro cash or card otherwise. Arrive early, and choose a rock to sit on for sunset; it gets really busy! Beautiful colours in the sky, Aegean Sea, and on the Temple make this an evening to remember!

Guillermo Q.

Google

Took a while to get there from Athens but it is worthy. It was very cloudy that day so the sunset was not really visible. But it os amazing how the ancient Greeks decide to honor Poseidon in such a magnificent place. The nice thing was there was a holiday in Greece and the entrance was free!

Sanita K.

Google

Well worth the visit. Beautiful spot for sunset or sunrise just pity cant buy tickets in advance and so creates lenghty lines to get in . One desk to buy tickets . Bathrooms another long line for ladies especialy.

Forrest T.

Google

The Temple of Poseidon is a must see when you visit Cape Sounion! It was built as part of Pericles’ building program at the same time the Parthenon was being constructed on the Acropolis of Athens. Look carefully for Lord Byron’s signature on the temple. You should see at least once the sunset there, but be aware it will be crazy busy then. Suggest coming back later for a more relaxed time to tour the site when it isn’t as busy.