Temple of Poseidon travel guide

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, standing majestically on the edge of a cliff, dates back to the 5th century BC.

Built as a tribute to Poseidon, the god of the sea in ancient Greek mythology, this Doric-style temple once held a colossal statue of the deity.

The temple was part of the Athenian Riviera, serving as a strategic point for ships sailing in the Aegean Sea. It was destroyed in 480 BC by Persian forces and later rebuilt by Pericles, the Athenian leader, during the Golden Age of Athens (495-429 BC).

The Temple of Poseidon was also a sacred place for sailors, who made sacrifices here seeking safe passage. Renowned poet Lord Byron even left his mark here in the early 19th century, etching his name onto the temple's marble columns.

Today, this archaeological site continues to captivate visitors with its architectural grandeur and stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, offering a glimpse into the rich history of ancient Greece.

Discover Temple of Poseidon, a prime feature of Municipality of Lavreotiki.

In the vicinity of Temple of Poseidon, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Municipality of Lavreotiki, a city in Greece rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city for an unforgettable adventure.

Temple of Poseidon is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Municipality of Lavreotiki, Greece. If you're flying in, Athens International Airport is approximately 20.3 miles (32.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Temple of Poseidon by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Municipality of Lavreotiki, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Temple of Poseidon, which is located 6.9 miles (11.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Cape Sounio, Sounio 195 00, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Temple of Poseidon!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Municipality of Lavreotiki, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Temple of Poseidon.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic archeological site in Greece.

The best time to explore Temple of Poseidon at cape Sounion is during the spring months of April and May, or the autumn months of September and October. These periods offer a comfortable climate for sightseeing, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C. They also avoid the crowded peak summer tourism period, ensuring a more serene and personal experience. Additionally, these months coincide with a lower chance of rain, ensuring clear visibility of the spectacular Aegean Sea views. A unique time to visit is during the full moon in August, when the temple is open for nocturnal viewing. Seeing the ancient ruins bathed in moonlight truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For those interested in photography, the temple is particularly photogenic at sunset, when the setting sun casts a magical glow over the structure. Considering these factors, planning your visit during spring or autumn, especially around sunset or during the August full moon, will allow you to fully appreciate the majesty and history of the Temple of Poseidon.

Choosing the right accommodation near Temple of Poseidon from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Municipality of Lavreotiki can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Temple of Poseidon, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Temple of Poseidon, Municipality of Lavreotiki boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Municipality of Lavreotiki offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Archaeological Museum of Lavrion is worth seeing when you're in Municipality of Lavreotiki. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Laurium 195 00, Greece.

This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Laurium 195 00, Greece, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Municipality of Lavreotiki below to discover even more incredible places to explore.