A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Cape Sounion vs. Kalampaka (Meteora) for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)? 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 iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, museums, and food.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a dramatic, historic, and spiritual destination. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cape Sounion. Although Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora) are both popular with visitors, Cape Sounion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cape Sounion is more popular for its nightlife and beaches, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is known for its impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Cape Sounion is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets. It is also home to The Temple of Poseidon.

How is Cape Sounion different from Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cape Sounion.

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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kalampaka (Meteora) that are not to be missed. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.


Is the Food Better in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Both Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora) offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Sounion is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Cape Sounion is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cape Sounion. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Cape Sounion is a good destination for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion offers a nice beach destination. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora).

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

With fun activities for couples, both Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora) make for a good place to visit.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a nice destination for couples. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Cape Sounion is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cape Sounion. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.


Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Cape Sounion is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Cape Sounion is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Sounion Worth Visiting? and Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora). With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kalampaka (Meteora) than in Cape Sounion. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cape Sounion, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kalampaka (Meteora).

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cape Sounion than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Cape Sounion.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3

One day in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

In Cape Sounion, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kalampaka (Meteora), many people enjoy the museums and food that this dramatic destination offers. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people visit Cape Sounion for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Sounion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

The destination of Cape Sounion offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Sounion. This destination offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place to visit. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $272
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Prices for flights to both Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $43
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $81
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $42
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $43
  • All Day Private Meteora Photo Tour: $271
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $43
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $43
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $239
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $53
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora), we can see that Cape Sounion is more expensive. And not only is Kalampaka (Meteora) much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kalampaka (Meteora) would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kalampaka (Meteora) and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cape Sounion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Sounion than you might in Kalampaka (Meteora).

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora), 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Summer?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Kalampaka (Meteora). Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 330 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Autumn?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora) in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 165 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Kalampaka (Meteora). The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cape Sounion is much warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 112 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cape Sounion usually receives more rain than Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Kalampaka (Meteora). Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 209 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Kalampaka (Meteora). Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Kalampaka (Meteora)
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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