Buggy Tour in Ancient Ruins and Temples around Athens-SOUNIO Poseidon Temple

If you’re looking for a way to see the sights around Athens that’s a little more exciting than the usual walk or bus ride, this Buggy Tour in Ancient Ruins and Temples might just be what you need. It offers a mix of scenic drives, quick stops at major landmarks, and the chance to feel a bit of the thrill of off-road exploration—all wrapped up in a full-day adventure.

What really catches our eye about this experience are how much ground you can cover in a short time and the fact that it combines cultural highlights with stunning coastal scenery. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Greek lunch makes it a well-rounded day.

That said, a possible consideration is the additional site entry fees—which can add up—so you might want to budget for that. Also, since the tours involve driving in an open-air buggy, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor adventures and variable weather.

This tour is especially great if you prefer an active, fun way to explore that’s a bit different from the typical sightseeing bus or walking tour. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy the outdoors and want a mix of history, nature, and local flavor—all in one day.

Key Points

• Quickly cover many attractions with a scenic buggy ride around Athens and its coastline.
• Includes visits to the Temple of Poseidon and Lake Vouliagmeni, offering both cultural and relaxing experiences.
• Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in a coastal suburb, adding local flavor to your day.
• Learn from a knowledgeable guide who shares stories in multiple languages.
• The tour is family-friendly, with a maximum group size of 24, making it personal yet lively.
• Additional site fees are not included in the tour price, so plan for extra costs at stops.

Setting Off from Athens: What to Expect

This 8-hour adventure kicks off from the heart of Athens, at Kallirrois 310. The day starts at 11:00 am, giving you plenty of time to relax before heading out. The transportation is a fleet of open-air BeachBuggy® vehicles, equipped with Bluetooth sound systems, so you can crank up your favorite tunes while enjoying the breeze and the views.

The guide — often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable — will explain the landmarks and area history in up to five languages, making it accessible for most travelers. While the Bluetooth system is mainly for music, the guide’s commentary is transmitted through a real-time speaker, so you won’t miss out on the stories.

The First Stop: Lake Vouliagmeni

Your first highlight is the beautiful Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural wonder fed by underground springs and seawater, renowned for its supposed healing properties. Here, you’ll spend about an hour, with the option to swim (additional charge) or relax at a nearby beach bar. Many travelers rave about this spot—some mention the landscape as “enchanting” and the water as “curative,” making it a perfect way to kick off your day.

A review even shared, “Our buggy tour to Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon was absolutely amazing from start to finish,” highlighting how much visitors appreciate this peaceful, scenic stop.

The Iconic: Temple of Poseidon

Next, you’ll head to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounio, a major monument perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Greece, and the panoramic views from this spot are breathtaking. Expect around 45 minutes here, enough to walk around, take photos, and soak in the energy of the site.

Several reviewers described this as a “fantastic” experience, with one even noting, “The guide was excellent, and the views were incredible,” confirming how much this stop enhances the overall trip.

Pro tip: Remember, site entry fees aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget around 37 euros per person for access. Many find it worthwhile for the chance to stand amid such history and scenery.

Coastal Charm and a Greek Souvlaki Lunch

Traveling along the Athens Riviera, you’ll pass through lively suburbs like Glyfada and Voula, dotted with cafes, shops, and marinas. The scenery here offers a different side of Athens—more relaxed, more scenic.

The lunch stop in Anavyssos is a highlight for many, with a traditional Greek souvlaki meal served in about an hour. Several reviews mention this as a delicious, authentic experience—”probably the best meal of our Athens trip,” one traveler said. It’s a chance to refuel before heading back, and the casual setting means you can unwind and enjoy local flavors.

The Overall Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides—many mention how guides like Manolis made the day special with their tips and personality. “Manolis was an awesome guide,” one review notes, highlighting how guides’ flexibility and friendliness add to the experience.

The fun of driving a buggy is a recurring theme, with many describing it as “safe,” “exciting,” and “a lot of fun.” Several mention that the vehicles are in great shape, making for a smooth ride.

The views along the coast are another big hit, with travelers noting the scenic beauty of the coastline and the unique perspective the buggy provides. The combination of history, nature, and a relaxed pace makes this tour special.

Practical Details and Considerations

At $236.97 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option on the block. However, many feel it’s good value considering the access to multiple sites, scenic drives, and the included lunch. Still, keep in mind that site entrance fees are separate, so it’s wise to plan for an extra 37 euros per person if you want to explore the Temple of Poseidon fully.

The tour size is limited to 24 travelers, which keeps things intimate but lively. The group discounts are a bonus if you’re traveling with friends or family.

While most travelers find the experience suitable for most ages, remember that the ride is outdoors and involves some driving on coastal roads, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with open-air vehicles and variable weather conditions.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This buggy adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore Athens’s outskirts in a more engaging way. If you’re interested in history but prefer to see it from a fun perspective, this tour hits the mark. It’s also great for those who love scenic coastal drives and want a break from traditional tours.

Families with older children might enjoy the thrill and the scenic stops, but very young kids might find the buggy ride less appealing. It’s an experience for those ready to embrace the outdoors and enjoy some fresh air.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience Athens beyond the city’s historical core.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is open-air and fun, it’s best suited for older children comfortable with outdoor rides. Very young kids may find the buggies less engaging or suitable.

Are site entrance fees included?
No, the entry to the Temple of Poseidon and other stops like Lake Vouliagmeni are not included. You should budget approximately 37 euros per person for the Poseidon Temple.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, starting at 11:00 am and returning to the original meeting point around 7:00 pm.

What’s included in the price?
You get bottled water, snacks, a traditional Greek souvlaki lunch, orange juice, and an English-speaking guide.

Can I listen to music during the ride?
Yes, the buggies have Bluetooth stereo systems, so you can listen to your favorite music, although the guide’s commentary is transmitted via a real-time speaker.

Is this tour suitable for non-drivers?
The tour involves driving the buggy, so you should be comfortable with operating or riding in the vehicle. If you prefer to sit back, check if the tour offers passengers’ options.

How many people are in each buggy?
Typically, the vehicle is shared between 2 to 4 people, depending on the booking and vehicle size.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially since the ride is outdoors and open-air. Bring sun protection or a jacket depending on the season.

All in all, this Buggy Tour in Athens and Sounio is a lively, scenic way to explore some of Greece’s most iconic sites. If you’re after a mix of adventure, history, and coastal beauty, it’s worth considering for your Athens itinerary.