Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and bustling streets; it also offers spectacular canoe and kayak experiences that let you see the coastline from a fresh perspective. Imagine paddling past towering cliffs, secluded beaches, and caves inaccessible by land—these tours bring a whole new dimension to exploring Greece’s capital. Among the many options, the Athens Sea Kayak Tour to the Temple of Poseidon stands out for its combination of adventure, history, and stunning scenery, especially with its included entrance fee and delicious Greek lunch. It’s a top pick for those who want an active day balanced with cultural highlights.
While Athens’s urban charm is undeniable, its seaside landscape offers a quieter, more intimate connection with the Athenian Riviera. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure or a quick sunset paddle, there’s a tour here for every interest. For those interested in exploring archaeological sites by kayak, the Sea Kayak Athens Riviera adventure and the guided Athens Sea Kayak Tour offer different takes on combining history with water sports. If you’re after a shorter trip, the Sunset Sea Kayaking in Athens Riviera provides a spectacular end-of-day experience, perfect for sunset chasers.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best canoe and kayak experiences in Athens. Each offers a unique way to see Greece’s coastline, from peaceful swims to ancient temple views and sunken cities. Read on to find the one that suits your adventure style.
1. Athens Sea Kayak Tour to the Temple of Poseidon with entrance fee and lunch
At number one on our list, this full-day sea kayak tour offers a scenic paddle along the Athenian Riviera, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the views of Cape Sounion. The highlight is paddling from Athens to the impressive Temple of Poseidon, where you’ll admire the ancient monument from the water—an angle few visitors get to see. The tour includes the entrance fee to the site, so you can explore the temple on foot after your paddle. A Greek tavern lunch wraps up the day, providing fresh local dishes and a commanding view of the coast.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group setting, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guides are experienced, making it suitable even for beginners, as highlighted by reviews praising their friendliness and safety focus. Expect a mix of paddling, swimming, and cultural exploration, making it a well-rounded experience. Many say it’s the highlight of their trip, with some mentioning how the guides made them feel comfortable despite no prior experience.
Bottom Line: This tour balances physical activity with cultural discovery, perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive day out on the water while enjoying authentic Greek hospitality.
2. From Athens: Cape Sounion Guided Kayaking Tour with Lunch
For around $86, the From Athens: Cape Sounion Guided Kayaking Tour with Lunch combines paddling with a taste of local cuisine. Starting right from Athens, you’ll paddle along the Athenian Riviera, passing cliffs, beaches, and caves that aren’t visible by land. The guides will take you to secluded spots, like the island of Archi or beaches of Legrena, before stopping at the famous Temple of Poseidon. After exploring the ruins, a seaside taverna awaits for a hearty Greek meal.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—paddling in calm waters with knowledgeable guides who focus on safety and fun. The reviews glow about the quality of the food and the opportunity to swim at peaceful spots along the coast. One reviewer noted, “The best part was a dip into the Aegean Sea while we took a rest before paddling back to the restaurant,” highlighting how well-balanced the itinerary is.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those seeking a shorter but rich experience that combines paddling, sightseeing, and a delicious Greek meal in a relaxed setting.
3. Sea Kayak Athens Riviera adventure
At number three, this 4-hour guided paddle along the eastern Attica coast offers a chance to explore hidden beaches and tiny islets. Led by certified guides, it’s a great option for families or casual paddlers looking for a manageable but memorable outing. The tour provides kayaks, paddles, and snorkeling gear, making it easy to jump in and out of the water.
Reviewers love the friendly, helpful guides—one called Mike “very professional and attentive,” noting that even beginners had a fantastic time. Stops for photos, snorkeling, and swimming punctuate the paddle, and the snacks and drinks keep energy levels high. The route is designed to be safe and fun, with a focus on relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day escape from the city, offering a mix of adventure and leisure with small-group intimacy and family-friendly activities.
4. Athens Sea Kayak Tour
Number four features a private tour that can be tailored to your schedule and interests. It includes all necessary kayaking and snorkeling equipment, with plenty of time to explore Athens’s coast and the Temple of Poseidon. This tour provides a flexible approach, making it suitable for those with specific preferences or limited time.
Guests report being able to see the temple from a unique angle, with some describing the experience as a “personalized adventure.” The guides’ local knowledge enhances the trip, offering insights into coastal geology and history. The tour can be scheduled for morning or afternoon, and the private format ensures a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a customizable, private experience that combines coastal scenery with cultural highlights.
5. Athens: Sea Kayaking Adventure on the South/East Coast
This 4 to 6.5-hour trip is perfect for those wanting a taste of the Aegean Sea, with paddling along the eastern Attica coast. Guides teach basic kayaking skills before heading out, making it accessible even for beginners. The route includes stops at scenic beaches and dramatic cliffs, and a picnic with local snacks is part of the package.
Reviewers mention how the guides—Kostas and Michael—are attentive and engaging, helping even inexperienced paddlers feel confident. The focus on small groups (ratio 1:6) means a more personal touch. The experience is as much about enjoying the sea views as it is about physical activity.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a relaxed, guided paddle with some light adventure and scenic picnic stops.
6. From Athens: Half-Day Sea Kayak tour at the Corinthian gulf
Number six offers a 4-hour exploration of the Corinthian Gulf, starting from Alkyonidos beach. The tour includes a short lesson before paddling toward “the seal cave,” a striking natural arch and cave with a small beach inside. The route passes interesting geological formations and allows time for swimming and relaxing.
Guests rave about the guides—Mike and Marius—who make the experience enjoyable and engaging, even when weather conditions shift unexpectedly. The trip’s highlight is the seal cave, a pristine spot accessible only by sea, giving a sense of discovery. The small-group setting ensures flexibility, and the mix of paddling, swimming, and sightseeing appeals to a variety of interests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a scenic half-day adventure that combines natural wonders with light physical activity.
7. Offroad experience and at the end Sea Canoe
Number seven blends offroad 4WD touring with sea canoeing, making it a full-day adventure for active travelers. Starting with a trip through Attica’s olive groves and hills, the tour then moves to paddle around Marathon Lake. It’s perfect for those who want variety, combining land and water exploration.
The tour’s highlight is the visit to Marathon, the birthplace of the marathon race, adding a unique cultural element. The paddle is suitable for all levels, with equipment provided. Reviews mention how guides are attentive and friendly, making the experience both fun and educational.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a diverse day, combining land adventures with a peaceful paddle in a less touristy setting.
8. Guided Athens Sea Kayak Temple of Poseidon
This 3-hour guided paddle offers a shorter, focused experience along the Athens coastline, with excellent views of the Temple of Poseidon from the water. It’s ideal for those with limited time but still eager to see the temple from a unique perspective. The guides take you past caves and cliffs, stopping briefly for energizing snacks.
Reviewers praise the guides’ local knowledge and the trip’s beauty, emphasizing how this experience is a combination of physical activity and sightseeing. It’s perfect for a morning or sunset paddle, providing flexibility for your schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a quick yet enriching excursion that combines coastal scenery with cultural sights.
9. Sunset Sea Kayaking in Athens Riviera
Number nine captures the magic of Athens at sunset. This 3-hour trip takes you along the Attica coast as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the water. Stops for brief snorkeling and relaxing on remote beaches add to the experience.
The quiet evening paddling offers a calm, less crowded alternative to daytime tours. Reviews mention how stunning the sunset views are, with some calling it “one of the most beautiful experiences in Athens.” The guide makes sure everyone is comfortable and maximizes the sunset moment.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for romantics or anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic paddle at the end of the day.
10. From Athens Day Trip to Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus
Finally, number ten offers a full-day adventure exploring the sunken city of Epidaurus. Combining kayaking, snorkeling, and ancient ruins, this trip is ideal for history buffs and water lovers alike. You’ll kayak above the submerged ruins, snorkel among them, and learn their story from expert guides.
Guests describe it as “fabulous,” and one notes seeing a large sea turtle while snorkeling. It’s a longer trip at around ten hours, suited for travelers who want an immersive experience blending active water sports with archaeological discovery.
Bottom Line: For those with a full day and a curiosity for ancient history, this tour offers a memorable mix of adventure and storytelling.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Athens
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, physical fitness, and interests. If you want a comprehensive day with historical sights and good food, the Athens Sea Kayak Tour to the Temple of Poseidon is excellent. For a shorter, more relaxed paddle, the Sunset Sea Kayaking offers a peaceful end to your day. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Cape Sounion guided tour with lunch, while adventure seekers should look at the full-day sunken city trip.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as these tours are popular. Think about whether you want a private experience or a group setting, and check reviews to see which guides are most highly rated.
Athens offers a surprisingly diverse selection of canoe and kayak trips that reveal Greece’s spectacular coastline and ancient monuments from a different angle. Whether you prefer a half-day paddle or a full-day adventure that combines history and nature, options like the Sea Kayak Athens Riviera, the Corinthian Gulf exploration, or the Sunset paddle could be your perfect match. No matter your choice, these tours promise a memorable way to experience Athens beyond the usual sightseeing.
Start planning early, pick the experience that excites you most, and enjoy paddling through Greece’s scenic waters.
