Cape Sounion is the promontory at the southernmost tip of the Attic peninsula, 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) south of the town of Lavrio (ancient Thoricus), and 70 kilometres (43 mi) southeast of Athens. It is part of Lavreotiki municipality, East Attica, Greece. Cape Sounion is noted for its Temple of Poseidon, one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens. Its remains are perched on the headland, surrounded on three sides by the sea. The earliest literary reference to Sounion is in Homer's Odyssey (III. 278–285). The story recounts that as the various Greek commanders sailed back from Troy, the helmsman of the ship of King Menelaus of Sparta died at his post while rounding "Holy Sounion, Cape of Athens."[1] Menelaus landed at Sounion to give his companion full funeral honours (i.e., cremation on a funeral pyre on the beach). Archaeological finds on the site date from as early as 700 BC. Herodotus (VI.87) mentions that in sixth century BC, the Athenians celebrated a quinquennial festival at Sounion, which involved Athens' leaders sailing to the cape in a sacred boat.

Cape Sounion Tours and Tickets
🎧 No audio guides are available in this language.
Cape Sounion is the promontory at the southernmost tip of the Attic peninsula, 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) south of the town of Lavrio (ancient Thoricus), and 70 kilometres (43 mi) southeast of Athens. It is part of Lavreotiki municipality, East Attica, Greece. Cape Sounion is noted for its Temple of Poseidon, one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens. Its remains are perched on the headland, surrounded on three sides by the sea. The earliest literary reference to Sounion is in Homer's Odyssey (III. 278–285). The story recounts that as the various Greek commanders sailed back from Troy, the helmsman of the ship of King Menelaus of Sparta died at his post while rounding "Holy Sounion, Cape of Athens."[1] Menelaus landed at Sounion to give his companion full funeral honours (i.e., cremation on a funeral pyre on the beach). Archaeological finds on the site date from as early as 700 BC. Herodotus (VI.87) mentions that in sixth century BC, the Athenians celebrated a quinquennial festival at Sounion, which involved Athens' leaders sailing to the cape in a sacred boat.
Overview
More Info
- One of the most iconic sights in mainland Greece, Cape Sounion is a must for photographers, Instagrammers, and history buffs.
- The 19th-century poet Lord Byron carved his name into one of the columns here. Please don’t follow his example, although plenty of travelers have.
- The site includes a café-restaurant, a gift shop, and restrooms.
- Slopes and uneven terrain present some challenges, but it’s possible to get close to the Temple of Poseidon using a wheelchair. The steep beach path is not wheelchair-accessible.
More Adventures for You
0$
0$
3000$

Price From
$90.92 USD
See the best of Athens and its surrounding highlights on this sightseeing super saver that combines two best-selling tours at a saving of 10%! Begin with a leisurely paced walking tour to see top Athens attractions, like Syntagma Square and the historic neighborhood of Plaka, on your way to the Acropolis. Tour this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site and its ruins with your guide, and then travel to picturesque Cape Sounion in the afternoon to see the Temple of Poseidon._en-US
Learn More
Price From
1.00 USD
Gaze one of the most majestic sunsets in Greece with a private trip to Cape Sounion. After your private pick up by an executive car or mini van, relax and travel along the scenic Saronic Gulf, all the way from Athens Riviera to the cape and listen to your driver sharing tips and insights. Admire the temple of Poseidon, which sits atop a sheer sea cliff and was a sacred site in the ancient world. Absorb the unique views across the Aegean and take unique photos. After, taste the delightful Greek dishes in a picturesque seaside tavern with great view of the illuminated Temple of Poseidon. As you return, you can enjoy a delicious waffle with ice cream that only locals know. You get to admire stunning Archeological Sites. Admire one of the most amazing sunsets you could ever imagine. 100% personalized tour. No prearranged fixed tour. Taste local cuisine and hear stories about the visited sites. Private English speaking driver sharing tips. Extra stop for ice cream._en-US
Learn More
Price From
$88.81 USD
Experience the best of Athens on this full-day tour, combining history, culture, and breathtaking coastal views. Begin with a guided exploration of the iconic Acropolis and its world-renowned Museum, where you’ll delve into the city’s ancient heritage. Continue with a scenic drive to Cape Sounion to visit the majestic Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. Along the way, enjoy stunning vistas and learn about Greece’s fascinating history from your expert guide. A delicious lunch is included, making this an unforgettable journey through Athens and its surroundings._en-US
Learn More
Price From
$43.29 USD
Discover the world's oldest theater at Thorikos. Visit the Temple of Poseidon one of the most important temples in Greece See the impressive panoramic view from the southeastern peak of Sounion. Experience the breathtaking sunset over the Aegean Sea._en-US
Learn More
Price From
$179.84 USD
Escape & experience beautiful blue Greek beaches and the impressive Temple of Poseidon on a fantastic private day trip experience! Have fun under the sun, taste fresh seafood and see for yourself stunning ruins full of history._en-US
Learn MoreFor Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
- Speech To Text
Access for Seniors
- Recommended time for visit мore than 3 hours
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Bathroom: Too narrow for wheelchair
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
- Hilly area
- Exhibit height - 3
- Not accessible for wheelchair and Electric scooters
Access for Visually Impaired
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted