A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Antalya for Attractions, Beaches, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Antalya? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a impressive, spectacular, and iconic destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Antalya

Antalya is a high energy, relaxing, and luxurious vacation spot. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cape Sounion and Antalya: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya. Although Cape Sounion and Antalya are popular destinations, Antalya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antalya is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Sounion attracts visitors for its museums. Antalya is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Cape Sounion is famous for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Antalya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antalya and Cape Sounion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Cape Sounion is an amazing destination to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.


Is the Food Better in Cape Sounion or Antalya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Antalya has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Music?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is a popular place for its music scene. However, Cape Sounion is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Cape Sounion is not a live music destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Resorts?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for the beach. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.


Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Cape Sounion or Antalya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Antalya can get you to most places easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

Is Cape Sounion or Antalya a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Antalya

Cape Sounion and Antalya are nice when it comes to walkability.

Cape Sounion is a somewhat walkable destination. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Sounion Worth Visiting? and Is Antalya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antalya or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

In either Cape Sounion or Antalya, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than Cape Sounion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cape Sounion, and 2-5 days is enough time in Antalya.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Cape Sounion. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Cape Sounion. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Cape Sounion if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antalya.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Antalya? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Antalya 2-5

One day in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This destination offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Antalya, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic vacation spot offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Sounion has to offer.

Antalya is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

In Antalya, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cape Sounion or Antalya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Sounion. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antalya is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Antalya or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Antalya is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Antalya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Antalya 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Antalya 102
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Antalya

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Antalya? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Antalya


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antalya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Antalya 103

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

Also for Antalya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • olympos cable car with transfer from antalya: $87
  • Two Days Tour to Cappadocia with HB Hotel & Transfer from Antalya: $250
  • Turkey Antalya Airport Transfer Service VIP Transfer AYT: $46
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Antalya APT-HTL (AYT): $35
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to city of Side: $73
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Tekirova: $84
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Kiris/Camyuva: $80
  • Transfer from Antalya Airport to Kemer: $74
  • The Land of Legends Theme Park with Transfer from Antalya: $90
  • Tazi Canyon & Rafting tour with BBQ Lunch & Transfer from Antalya: $57
  • Suluada Boat Trip With Lunch & Transfer (Belek,Antalya,Kemer): $14
  • Side Land of Legend Night Show Transfer (Turkish Disneyland): $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Prices for flights to both Antalya and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Antalya 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $72
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $103
  • Pamukkale tour w. Entrance, Lunch, Dinner & Transfer from Antalya: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Antalya 43

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Full Day Green Canyon Boat Tour with Lunch Included: $60
  • Full-Day Adventure 3 in 1 activity from Antalya to Köprülü Canyon National Park: $52
  • !!!All inclusive Antalya city tour: $66
  • 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Antalya With Cave Hotel Overnight: $60
  • 2 in 1 Tour in Antalya Rafting and Buggy Safari Tour with Lunch : $40
  • 3 in 1 Rafting Buggy Safari and Zipline Adventure in Antalya: $38
  • 4-Hour Antalya Short Shopping Tour: $15
  • 6-Hour Kemer Pirate Boat Tour with Open-Buffet Lunch from Antalya: $25
  • 7 Hour Adventure on The Land of Legends Theme Park (Antalya): $120
  • 9 hours Antalya Canyoning and Rafting Tours: $43
  • A Walking Adventure in Antalya: $174
  • ATV Adventure Antalya with Hotel Pick-Up : $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Antalya 19


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Sounion and Antalya, we can see that Cape Sounion is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Antalya Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 760 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion and Antalya, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cape Sounion or Antalya?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Antalya in the Summer?

Both Antalya and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antalya this time of year.

Cape Sounion is around the same temperature as Antalya in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Antalya fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 376 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives more rain than Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Antalya 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Antalya in the Autumn?

Both Antalya and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Sounion is around the same temperature as Antalya. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Sounion in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Antalya averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets less sunshine than Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 251 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Antalya 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Antalya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Antalya. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Antalya. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 10°C (51°F), and Antalya fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives less sunshine than Antalya during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 161 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Antalya 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Antalya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Antalya. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cape Sounion is around the same temperature as Antalya in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Antalya fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 243 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Antalya. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Antalya 16°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Antalya and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Antalya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in)