The Athens Highlights Tour & Cape Sounio offers travelers an opportunity to explore Greece’s storied past and admire its natural splendor. From the iconic Acropolis to the striking Temple of Poseidon, this comprehensive day trip showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour promises an immersive experience that will leave you captivated. With seamless transportation, knowledgeable guides, and accessible amenities, this tour caters to the needs of all visitors, ensuring a journey that is both enlightening and enjoyable.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 9-hour tour exploring Athens’s iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium, and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio.
- Priced at SEK 7,124 for a private group of up to 4 participants, with round-trip transportation from central hotels and wheelchair accessibility.
- Allows visitors to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Syntagma Square and enjoy the cultural heritage of ancient Greece.
- Offers insights into the architectural and engineering prowess of the ancient Greeks, showcased through the well-preserved sites and monuments.
- Provides the option to add entrance fees and a professional guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
Tour Overview
The Athens Highlights Tour & Cape Sounio offers a comprehensive exploration of Athens’s iconic landmarks, ranging from the ancient Acropolis to the seaside Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio.
Priced from SEK 7,124 per group (up to 4 participants), this 9-hour tour departs from and returns to central hotels in Athens.
Highlights include visiting the Parthenon, witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square, and discovering the Temple of Poseidon.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers a private group experience.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Transportation, Wi-Fi, water, and soft drinks are provided, while entrance fees and a professional guide can be added for an additional cost.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors first explore the iconic Acropolis of Athens, spending around 2 hours admiring the Parthenon, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. Next, they witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square, before visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Greece’s largest temple. The tour then heads to the Panathenaic Stadium, host of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The day culminates at the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounio, where participants learn about its historical significance.
| Site Visited | Duration |
|---|---|
| Acropolis | 2 hours |
| Syntagma Square | 30 minutes |
| Temple of Olympian Zeus | 45 minutes |
| Panathenaic Stadium | 30 minutes |
| Temple of Poseidon | 1 hour |
Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens, the ancient citadel perched atop a rocky outcrop, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s storied past.
Towering over the modern metropolis, the Acropolis is home to the Parthenon, a magnificent temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Travelers can also explore the grand Propylaea, the monumental gateway to the Acropolis, as well as the delicate Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion with its iconic Porch of the Caryatids.
As the heart of ancient Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides a powerful connection to Greece’s rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to enjoy the timeless wonder of this iconic landmark.
Hellenic Parliament & Syntagma Square
While strolling through the heart of Athens, visitors can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Syntagma Square before the grand neo-classical facade of the Hellenic Parliament building.
This striking landmark represents the seat of the Greek government and democracy.
Some key features of Syntagma Square include:
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the elite Presidential Guards known for their distinctive uniforms and synchronized marching.
- The Hellenic Parliament, formerly the Royal Palace, with its impressive Neoclassical architecture.
- The National Garden, a lush, tranquil oasis situated just steps away from the bustling square.
This dynamic public space offers visitors a glimpse into Greece’s rich political and cultural heritage.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
As one continues the Athens Highlights Tour, the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus comes into view, standing as a testament to Greece’s architectural and engineering prowess. This colossal temple, completed by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE, was once the largest temple in ancient Greece. Today, visitors can explore the impressive ruins and learn about its remarkable history.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Original Construction | 6th century BCE |
| Completion | 2nd century CE |
| Original Columns | 104 |
| Remaining Columns | 15 |
The sheer scale and grandeur of the Temple of Olympian Zeus captivates all who visit, offering a glimpse into the glory of ancient Greek civilization.
Panathenaic Stadium
Next, the tour group ventures to the Panathenaic Stadium, the ancient venue that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. This impressive stadium, built entirely of marble, offers a glimpse into Greece’s rich athletic heritage.
Visitors can explore the running track and seating areas, imagining the roar of the crowd during historic competitions. The stadium’s significance is underscored by three key facts:
- It’s the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.
- It has hosted the modern Olympic Games twice, in 1896 and 2004.
- It remains an important venue for the final relay leg of the Olympic torch relay.
This stop on the tour provides a captivating connection to Athens’ storied past.
Cape Sounio & Temple of Poseidon
The tour then takes visitors to Cape Sounio, home to the iconic Temple of Poseidon, a structure dating back to the early 5th century BCE.
Perched atop a rocky headland overlooking the Aegean Sea, the temple offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into ancient Greek history. Participants will have an hour to explore the ruins and learn about the temple’s significance.
Built to honor the god of the sea, Poseidon, the temple was an important religious and political center in antiquity.
Today, it remains a popular destination for its stunning natural setting and well-preserved archaeological site.
Transportation and Amenities
The tour offers pickup from central hotels in Athens and Piraeus, as well as from cruise ships docked in Piraeus, providing convenient transportation to the starting location.
Once aboard, guests can enjoy Wi-Fi, water, and soft drinks during the journey.
The tour also offers several optional add-ons, including:
- Entrance fees to the archaeological sites
- A professional guide to provide additional historical insights
These amenities ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for travelers exploring the highlights of Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio.
The tour is designed with accessibility in mind, accommodating wheelchair users as part of a private group experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour is customizable. Guests can request to visit additional sites within Athens or along the Athenian Riviera for an additional cost and based on availability. The tour provider will accommodate requests whenever possible.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour provider offers flexible options to extend the duration. Guests can customize the itinerary and add more sites for an additional fee. This allows them to tailor the experience to their interests.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Larger Groups?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounted pricing for larger groups. Groups of 4 or more participants can receive a discounted rate, making the tour more affordable for those traveling together.
Can the Tour Be Modified for Children or Seniors?
The tour can be modified to accommodate children and seniors. The driver can adjust the pace and provide additional assistance as needed. Discounted rates may be available for larger groups or families.
Do You Provide Any Recommendations for Lunch or Dining Options?
The tour provider doesn’t include recommendations for lunch or dining options, but there are plenty of restaurants and cafes near the key sites visited on the tour where participants can enjoy local Greek cuisine at their own expense.
Recap
The Athens Highlights Tour & Cape Sounio offers an enriching journey through Greece’s remarkable history and natural wonders.
From the iconic Acropolis to the stunning Temple of Poseidon, this private and accessible tour provides an immersive experience, complete with transportation, refreshments, and the option for a professional guide.
This comprehensive excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the highlights of Athens and the surrounding region.
