Temple of Poseidon at cape Sounion 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.

Located in Lavreotiki Municipality, the iconic Temple of Poseidon is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Greece.

Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Archaeological Museum of Lavrion, and Mineralogical Museum of Lavrion.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

Temple of Poseidon is located in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής, Greece, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Athens International Airport is approximately 20.26 miles (32.59 km) away from Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the town, where Temple of Poseidon is located.

If you’re already in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the ancient Greek temple. The exact address of the attraction is Cape Sounio, Sounio 195 00, Greece, Greece.

You can also rent a car and drive to Temple of Poseidon. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Temple of Poseidon and other top attractions in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Temple of Poseidon!

Discover the enchanting beauty of Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής and top attractions like Temple of Poseidon with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Temple of Poseidon and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής, Greece, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind ancient Greek temple 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.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the town. With the town's most famous attractions like the stunning Temple of Poseidon just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Temple of Poseidon below.

Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the town has something for everyone.

Archaeological Museum of Lavrion is a bucket-list archaeological museum and top attraction in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 218 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Archaeological Museum of Lavrion is Laurium 195 00, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής is Mineralogical Museum of Lavrion. This is just like Archaeological Museum of Lavrion, one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5 stars among 119 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this geological museum is Laurium 195 00, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Δήμος Λαυρεωτικής below.