This tour begins with a stunning seaside drive along the Coast of Poseidon on the Aegean Sea, which wraps around the Attica Region from the southwest to the southeast. As you travel, you’ll pass by the historic Island of Salamis, where the famous Naval Battle of Salamis between the Greeks and Persians took place, marking the start of Athens' Golden Age. The journey continues past the Marina of Zea, once the main grain supply for Athens in antiquity and now one of the most expensive yacht marinas in the area.
Your first short stop is in the upscale residential area of Piraeus, Kastela, offering fantastic photo opportunities with its castle-like apartments overlooking the beautiful leisure port of Microlimano below. Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass several Olympic venues from the 2004 Games and the old marina, which houses decommissioned ships and a replica of the ancient Trieres warship.
As the drive continues past the old airport and several scenic marinas, you’ll arrive in the luxurious coastal area of Vouliagmeni, known for its healing waters at Lake Vouliagmeni and its premium resorts and beaches. Moving further along the coast of Apollo, the vibrant blue of the Aegean becomes even more breathtaking, with picturesque villages and tranquil seaside spots offering a taste of countryside relaxation just outside the city.
The highlight of the coastal journey is the arrival at Cape Sounion, where visitors have 45 to 60 minutes to explore the majestic Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Aegean. This ancient site features the ruins of the surrounding walls, the Propylea (main entrance), and the foundations of the old town, as well as shipyard loading bays.
After Cape Sounion, the tour returns to Athens for the second part, where you’ll visit the heart of ancient Greece: the Acropolis. This 5th-century B.C. plateau stands 150 meters above sea level and is surrounded by ancient fortifications. Your 60-minute exploration includes iconic landmarks such as the Propylea, the Temple of Wingless Nike, the Erechtheion with its Caryatids, and the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena Parthenos. As you descend, you’ll pass the ruined Theater of Dionysos and the almost perfectly preserved Herodion, still used today for musical performances.
The tour continues with a visit to the Greek Parliament, where you’ll witness the Changing of the National Guard and learn about the Greek Revolution of 1821. You’ll also see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and take in the stately surroundings.
Next, you’ll stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kalimarmaro, a reconstruction of the 2nd-century A.D. stadium used for the first Marathon Race and the 1896 Modern Olympics. On your way out of Athens, you’ll drive by the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch before the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to the Cruise Ship Terminal, Airport, or your Hotel in Athens.
This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of Athens' historical landmarks and the natural beauty of the Athenian Riviera, making it an ideal way to experience both the city’s heritage and its stunning coastline in a single day.
