Set on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, about 180 km northwest of Athens, Delphi was believed by the ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world. Zeus himself supposedly proved it by releasing two eagles from opposite ends of the earth -- they met at Delphi. A marble "navel stone" (omphalos) marked the spot.

The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consistently ranks as one of Greece's most visited archaeological destinations. Despite the 2.5-hour drive, it's entirely doable as a day trip -- and well worth the early start.

What to See at Delphi

The Archaeological Site

The ruins are arranged along the Sacred Way, a path that climbs up the hillside. Allow 2-3 hours to explore properly.

Temple of Apollo -- The main event. Six columns still stand from the 4th-century BC temple where the Pythia (oracle) delivered her prophecies. Ancient leaders from across the Mediterranean came here before making major decisions -- wars, colonies, marriages.

The Ancient Theatre -- Built in the 4th century BC with seating for 5,000. The views from the top rows across the valley to the olive groves below are spectacular.

The Stadium -- A 10-minute climb above the theatre. This is where the Pythian Games were held, second only to the Olympics in importance. The starting blocks for the runners are still visible.

The Treasuries -- Small buildings along the Sacred Way where city-states stored their offerings to Apollo. The Treasury of the Athenians has been partially reconstructed and gives a good sense of scale.

Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia (Tholos) -- A short walk from the main site. The three standing columns of this circular temple are one of the most photographed ruins in Greece.

The Archaeological Museum

Don't skip this. It houses some extraordinary pieces:

  • The Charioteer of Delphi -- A near-perfect bronze statue from 478 BC. One of the finest surviving bronzes from antiquity.
  • The Sphinx of Naxos -- A 2.3-metre winged sphinx that once sat atop a 10-metre column.
  • The Omphalos -- The "navel of the world" stone.

The museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users. It tends to be quieter early in the morning or after 14:00 when tour groups have moved on.

How to Get There

By Car (2.5 hours)

The most flexible option. Take the E75 motorway north from Athens towards Lamia, exit at Kastro, and follow signs to Delphi via Livadia. The road is good throughout. Livadia makes a decent coffee stop about halfway.

Parking in Delphi is limited -- there's a small car park near the site entrance and street parking in the town. Arrive early in peak season.

By Bus (3 hours)

KTEL buses run from Liosion bus station in northern Athens to Delphi, roughly 6 times per day. The journey takes about 3 hours. Tickets cost around 17 EUR one way.

The bus drops you in the modern town of Delphi, a short walk from the archaeological site.

The easiest option and the most popular choice. Tours depart from central Athens (usually near Syntagma or Omonia Square) between 07:00 and 08:30 and return by late afternoon.

  • Group bus tours: 35-85 EUR depending on inclusions. Most include entrance fees and a licensed guide.
  • Small group tours (up to 8): 80-120 EUR. Less waiting, more personal.
  • Private tours: From 250+ EUR for the vehicle. Worth it for groups of 3-4.

Most tours include a stop in Arachova (see below) for lunch or coffee.

Entrance Fees and Opening Hours (2026)

Summer (Apr-Oct) Winter (Nov-Mar)
Full ticket 20 EUR 10 EUR
Reduced 10 EUR 5 EUR
Opening hours 08:00-20:00 08:30-15:30

The ticket covers both the archaeological site and the museum.

Free entry for EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18.

Closed: 1 January, 25 March, 1 May, Easter Sunday, 25-26 December.

Practical Tips

  • Footwear matters. The Sacred Way is uneven stone with steps. Wear proper shoes, not sandals.
  • Bring water and sun protection. There's very little shade on the site, especially on the climb to the stadium.
  • Start with the museum if you arrive early -- it opens at the same time as the site and is less crowded first thing. The context helps you appreciate the ruins more.
  • The stadium is worth the climb. Many visitors skip it because it's uphill. The views alone justify the effort.
  • Accessibility: The site is built on a steep hillside with uneven terrain and steps. It's not wheelchair accessible. The museum is fully accessible.

Arachova: The Perfect Lunch Stop

Most visitors to Delphi stop in Arachova, a photogenic mountain village just 10 minutes east of Delphi. Built on the slopes of Parnassus at 960 metres, it's known as the "Winter Mykonos" for its apres-ski scene, but it's charming year-round.

Stop for lunch at one of the tavernas and try the local specialities: formaela cheese (grilled or fried), hilopites (handmade square pasta), and locally produced wine. The cobbled main street is lined with shops selling textiles, leather goods, and honey.

If you're driving yourself, Arachova makes a natural stop on the way to or from Delphi. It's also possible to combine Delphi with a visit to the Parnassus ski resort in winter.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal. Comfortable temperatures for walking the site, fewer crowds than summer, and the surrounding landscape is at its most beautiful.

Summer works but it's hot -- the exposed hillside site with limited shade can be punishing in July and August. Start early if visiting in summer.

Winter has the advantage of half-price entry and virtually no crowds, but opening hours are shorter and the weather can be cold and wet. The drive from Athens occasionally encounters snow near Arachova.

Combining With Other Stops

  • Arachova -- 10 minutes from Delphi. Lunch, coffee, village stroll.
  • Hosios Loukas Monastery -- 35 km from Delphi. A stunning 10th-century Byzantine monastery with gold mosaics. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Can be combined if you're driving.
  • Thermopylae -- 85 km east. The site of the famous 480 BC battle. There's a statue of Leonidas and a small memorial. Doable as a stop on the return drive to Athens.

Delphi is 180 km from Athens. The drive takes about 2.5 hours. The site is open daily from 08:00 (summer) or 08:30 (winter).