Exploring the breathtaking ruins of Delphi was amazing! Once considered the center of the ancient world, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was home to the famous Oracle where ancient Greeks sought guidance from Apollo. Walking these sacred grounds, surrounded by incredible history and stunning mountain views, was an unforgettable experience.
The video above shows the wonders of Delphi! Keep reading below for more tips on how you too can embark on this historical adventure in Greece.
What is Delphi?
Delphi is a historical masterpiece in the middle of nowhere! It's about a two hour drive from Athens that can be explored via bus or tour group (see more transport tips below). Known as the navel of the world in ancient Greek mythology, Delphi once served as a major religious, cultural and political center of the Hellenic world. Delphi was also home to the Oracle of Apollo, where the Pythia, a priestess, would deliver cryptic prophecies thought to be inspired by the god Apollo himself. These prophecies influenced major decisions throughout the ancient Greek world, from wars to colonization efforts. Today, it continues to captivate visitors with its awe-inspiring ruins, breathtaking landscapes and deep connection to mythology. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, a visit to Delphi is an unforgettable journey into the past.
Where We Booked
We toured Delphi with GetYourGuide! We had a fabulous time! The tour included a licensed tour guide throughout the day with headphones to hear them on plus transportation to and from Athens and (if you select so) entry tickets into the site and museum. Also transportation to the surrounding city of Arachova for a lunch break. See more by clicking on the experience below.
The Delphi Museum
No visit to Delphi is complete without a stop at the Delphi Archaeological Museum. This museum houses a wealth of artifacts unearthed at the site. In my Delphi tour movie above you'll see the Sphinx of Naxos, the Twins of Argos and the Statue of Antinoos. Below is a photograph of the iconic Charioteer of Delphi, a bronze statue that exemplifies ancient Greek artistry and is considered one of the museum's most famous pieces.
Detail of the "Charioteer", the most famous statue of Delphi. (474 or 470 BC)
Tips for Visitors
Getting There: Delphi is about a two-hour drive from Athens, making it an ideal day trip or an overnight excursion. Public buses also connect Athens to Delphi for those without a car or without a tour group.
How to take the bus to Delphi: The bus is the cheapest way to travel from Athens to Delphi. KTEL Fokidas runs daily between Athens Liosion Station and Delphi Bus Station, with seats starting at $16 (€14.50) one way. The average ticket costs $21 (€19), so book in advance for the best deals.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the open-air site.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the site involves a fair amount of uphill walking. Don’t forget sunscreen and water, especially in the summer months. See this full packing list to help you plan your excursion.
Beyond the Ruins
Delphi isn’t just about ancient history. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty. We visited the nearby village of Arachova! It's a charming spot to enjoy local cuisine and shop for traditional handicrafts. We even found a place with vegan options in this little town!
Vegan Spot in Aráchova town
Barile Resto Vino Bar: This cozy and quaint restaurant has a whole vegan menu! Featuring pastas, salads and more! We loved snuggling up and grabbing a bite to eat after our long tour day.
What would you love about this trip to Delphi? Comment on the video with your favorite part! Subscribe to this blog and my YouTube channel for more Europe, Southeast Asia and America content!
