Itโ€™s worth timing your visit to coincide with the sunset
EXPERIENCE

A visit to the magical Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

By Cristina Gottardi
Updated: May 21, 2025
Just a short drive from Athens is the 5th-century BC temple dedicated to the sea god himself, with an aura (and sunset) that continues to captivate visitors
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Duration
Half or full day
Season
All year round

FAQ's

The Temple of Poseidon is situated atop a cliff at Cape Sounion, approximately 77 km (48 miles) southeast of Athens, Greece. Perched nearly 60 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets

The temple was constructed between 444 and 440 BC during the Golden Age of Athens under the leadership of Pericles. It replaced an earlier Archaic temple that was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC.

The Temple of Poseidon was a Doric peripteral temple, featuring 6 columns on the short sides and 13 on the long sides, totaling 34 columns. Each column stood approximately 6.1 meters (20 feet) tall. Constructed from locally quarried white marble, the temple housed a central chamber (naos) that likely contained a colossal bronze statue of Poseidon

The temple served as a sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea. It was a place of worship where sailors and travelers offered sacrifices seeking safe voyages. Strategically located, it also functioned as a landmark for ships approaching Athens and played a role in the city's maritime defense system.

๐ŸšŒ How can I get to the Temple of Poseidon from Athens?

There are several ways to reach the Temple of Poseidon from Athens:

  • By Bus:
    KTEL Attikis operates intercity buses from the Mavromateon Terminal in central Athens to Cape Sounion.
    The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views of the coast, passing through Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and other seaside towns.
  • By Car:
    Driving from Athens to Cape Sounion takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes via the scenic coastal road (Poseidonos Avenue).
    It's a flexible option if you want to explore other nearby beaches or archaeological sites along the way.
  • By Transfer with Welcome Pickups:
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    Welcome Pickups offers a seamless, safe, and enjoyable experience, with English-speaking drivers, fixed rates, and free cancellation.
    A great choice if you're looking for comfort and reliability without the hassle of hailing a taxi or renting a car.