What to do in Delphi, Greece: A magical journey back in time

High in the mountains of central Greece lies the mysterious oracle of Delpi, an ancient city full of history, myths and breathtaking views. We visited Delphi during our road trip through mainland Greece, and it felt like we were stepping back in time.

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Imagine walking along an ancient stone path, surrounded by cypresses, olive trees and ancient ruins. In the background lie rugged mountain peaks and an endless view over a green valley. Every step you take feels like you are getting closer to antiquity. Welcome to Delphi, one of the most magical places in Greece. Together with the hidden gem Mystras, this is also one of our favorite places in ancient Greece.

Delphi was the spiritual heart of the ancient Greek world. It was home to the world-famous oracle of Apollo. Kings, warlords and ordinary citizens alike consulted it in the hope of divine advice. But the reason we love it so much is its location, high in the mountains surrounded by nature. It is a place where nature, religion, art and politics merged into a unique whole that still captures the imagination today.

In this article, we will take you on a journey of discovery through Delphi. From how to get there and when to go, to what you absolutely must not miss during your visit. With extra attention for the impressive archaeological site, of course. And of course I will also share my tips for nice places to eat and stay. Whether you come for the impressive ruins, the view over the valley of Phocis or just to get away from the crowds, Delphi is a destination you will not soon forget.

How do you get to Delphi?

Delphi is located about 2.5 to 3 hours drive from the capital Athens. That makes it perfect for a day trip, but trust me: you will want to stay here overnight. By car is the easiest and most flexible way to get to Delphi. From Athens, you take the highway (A1 towards Lamia and then exit at Kastro) and the last part winds through the mountains with beautiful views. Parking in Delphi is usually not a problem, especially if you are early.

TIP: The easiest way to visit Delphi and the Greek mainland is to rent a car. If you’re looking for the best price to rent a car you should check Rentalcars.

You can also reach Delphi by bus. From the bus station in Athens (Liosion) there are daily buses to Delphi. The journey takes about 3 hours and is quite comfortable. Bus times can vary, so check the KTEL Fokidas website in advance.

If you have little time, you can also choose to book a day trip from Athens to Delphi and Arachova, including transport and a guide. That way you will be back in Athens in the evening. However, we prefer to avoid the crowds and stay overnight near Delphi, so that we can go early in the morning.

Best time to visit Delphi

Delphi is beautiful all year round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal. The temperatures are mild, the flowers are in bloom or the leaves are turning orange, and you share the site with fewer tourists. We were there in spring and it was fantastic, with fresh green grass, butterflies, flowering plants and lovely weather.

In the summer it can get very hot, and believe me, those stone ruins reflect the sun like a pizza oven. In the winter it is quieter and more mystical, especially when there is snow on the mountains, but some facilities are closed.

Best time to visit Delphi and Greece in Spring

A little history about Delphi

Delphi’s history goes back thousands of years and is steeped in myth, legend and political power. According to Greek mythology, the god Apollo chose Delphi as his sanctuary after he defeated the serpent Python that guarded the site. From the 8th century BC, Delphi became the most important religious center of ancient Greece.

The famous Delphic Oracle, spoken by the priestess Pythia, was consulted by kings, generals, and ordinary citizens on important decisions, from war to agriculture. Delphi became a neutral and sacred center where various Greek city-states displayed their wealth in treasuries and monuments.

The Pythian Games, held every four years, attracted visitors from far and wide. Despite invasions, earthquakes, and the rise of Christianity, Delphi remained a spiritual beacon for centuries. Today, you literally walk through the layers of history, and every stone tells a story.

Tips for your visit to Delphi

Your entrance ticket is valid for the archaeological site and the accompanying archaeological museum (which is definitely worth a visit). It is worth planning at least half a day, longer if you really want to enjoy it.

Make sure you wear sturdy shoes, a hat and plenty of water, especially in the summer, as the site is on a slope and it can get quite warm. You cannot buy drinks or food on the site itself. At the entrance you can fill up your reusable water bottle or buy soft drinks.

There is also a car park at the site itself, but if you are staying in the town of Delphi you can also walk there if the car park is already full.

TIP: If you want to avoid the heat and the big groups, stay a night in Delphi or the nice neighbouring village of Arachova and go to the site early the next morning, which opens at 8am in summer and 8.30am in winter. In summer the site also stays open longer (until 7-8pm), and you can also choose to go in the late afternoon.

What to do in Delphi

The archaeological site of Delphi (the highlight)

This is why everyone comes here, and rightly so! The archaeological site of Delphi is without a doubt one of the most impressive and significant places in all of Greece. Although many of the structures are now only ruins, you still get a very good idea of what it would have looked like. Furthermore, renovations are ongoing.

In ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the world, the navel point of the earth, marked by the famous omphalos stone. Pilgrims came here from all over to consult the oracle of Apollo, make sacrifices, and take part in religious and sporting festivities. What makes this site so special is not only its rich history and well-preserved ruins, but also its breathtaking location: high in the mountains, with a panoramic view of olive groves, deep gorges and the Gulf of Corinth in the distance. The combination of nature and culture creates an almost magical atmosphere.

What you definitely shouldn’t miss (see below for more information):

The Temple of Apollo: here, the Pythia, the famous oracle, sat in a trance giving mysterious messages.
The theatre: with a view that is almost more impressive than the history. You can see the whole valley – perfect for photos!
The Stadium: A short climb up takes you to the place where sporting events were held in honour of Apollo.
The Treasury of the Athenians: a beautifully preserved small building where gifts to the gods were stored.
Museum: Here you will discover some beautifully preserved objects that were on the site.

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is the beating heart of Delphi and, without a doub,t the most iconic structure on the site. It was here that the mysterious oracular predictions took place that attracted kings and ordinary mortals from far and wide. Inside the temple sat the Pythia, a priestess. Influenced by fumes from a fissure in the earth, she fell into a trance and spoke enigmatic messages. These were then interpreted by priests.

Today, only the pillars and foundations of the temple remain. But with a little imagination, you can easily imagine how impressive this building must have been. Its location, halfway up the mountainside overlooking the valley, gives the place that little bit extra, especially in the early morning or just before sunset. It is one of those places where you become silent for a moment, as if you can still hear the echo of the past.

Theatre

The theatre of Delphi is situated just above the Temple of Apollo. Not only does it offer a magnificent view of the archaeological site, but also of the valley that stretches endlessly below you. It was built in the 4th century BC and could seat around 5,000 spectators.

Plays, musical performances, and poetry competitions were held here during the Pythian Games, a kind of ‘cultural Olympics’ in honour of Apollo. The stands are carved into the mountain and are surprisingly well preserved. You can just sit down and imagine what it must have been like. Thousands of years ago, people listened to classical drama or lyre concerts under the Greek sun.

Stadion

The stadium of Delphi is located at the very top of the archaeological site, hidden among the trees and rocks. The climb to it is well worth it. This is where the sporting events took place during the Pythian Games, which were held every four years in honor of Apollo.

Think of running races, wrestling matches and other athletic events, all in front of a frenzied crowd. The stadium consists of a long track of about 180 meters and stone seats on the sides, including a place of honor for important spectators. Standing there, surrounded by mountains and silence, you can almost hear the cheers of the ancient crowd.

The Treasury of the Athenians

The Treasury of the Athenians is one of the most charming and best preserved structures at the archaeological site of Delphi. This small but elegant building was built by the city-state of Athens around 510 BC, right next to the Sacred Path leading to the Temple of Apollo. It served as a storage place for offerings and valuable gifts to the gods. A way for the Athenians to show their gratitude and to display their power and wealth. The other major cities also had their treasuries here, but this one is the best preserved.

The marble treasury was restored in the 20th century. Today it gives you a beautiful impression of the classical architecture, with fine columns and impressive inscriptions. It is a place that shows how politics, religion and prestige were closely intertwined in ancient Greece. And it is also one of the most photogenic places in Delphi.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi

Next to the site itself is the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, which is a great addition to your visit and should not be missed. While you are mainly soaking up the atmosphere and the impressive location outside, the museum brings you face to face with the masterpieces and objects found on the site. Think of beautiful sculptures, inscriptions, votive offerings and architectural fragments that illustrate the wealth and importance of Delphi through the ages.

The absolute highlight? The world-famous Charioteer of Delphi, a bronze statue from the 5th century BC that is so alive that you almost expect him to look at you. The metopes of the treasuries, the Sphinx of Naxos and the beautiful gold jewellery from tombs are also impressive. The museum is well-organised and modern. It is also fun with children because it is not too big, you can get through it in an hour.

TIP: We recommend visiting the site first (in the morning) and then the museum, so you can better imagine where all those objects were located.

The modern city of Delphi

The modern town of Delphi, within walking distance of the archaeological site, is small but charming (although very touristy). It is built on the slopes of Mount Parnassos and offers breathtaking views over the valley of the river Pleistos and the endless sea of olive trees stretching to the Gulf of Corinth.

In the town you will find some cozy taverns, cozy cafes, small boutiques and family hotels, everything you need for a pleasant stay. It is wonderful to sit down on a terrace with a glass of wine and local specialties such as moussaka or souvlaki after a day full of history.

Delphi is also a great base for those wanting to explore the region further, with charming mountain villages such as Arachova and Galaxidi nearby and a few hiking trails for those wanting to get out into nature. The modern town may feel touristy in high season, but it still manages to retain its authentic character.

Visit Arachova

If you have more time, drive on to Arachova, a picturesque mountain village 10 km from Delphi, perfect if you like charming streets, traditional architecture and a good dose of Greek coziness. Or you can also stay overnight here (which we actually recommend), and visit Delphi from here.

The village of Arachova is situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassos and is known as the “Mykonos of the mountains” for its lively atmosphere, especially in the winter months when it is a popular base for skiers. In the summer it is quieter, but just as beautiful. You wander between stone houses with red roofs, cobbled alleys, and cozy tavernas where you can taste local specialties such as formaela cheese and oven-baked lamb. The whole has a more cosmopolitan atmosphere than Delphi itself.

Where to eat in Delphi

After a morning or afternoon among the ruins, there is nothing better than a good Greek meal. Most places in Delphi have fantastic reviews, especially the traditional Greek taverns. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Delphi:

Estiatorio Fibos: Here you can enjoy authentic Greek food prepared with love, while admiring the view over the valley. The moussaka here is fantastic.
Apollo Cafe: A nice place with a beautiful view, where you can also find some more international dishes at affordable prices .
To Patriko Mas: A bit more expensive than average, but what fantastic food (and view)!

Spending the night in Delphi

We recommend staying at least one night. This way you can visit the site in the morning or early evening, when it is quieter and the light is magical. As mentioned before, you can stay overnight in Delphi itself, or stay in the mountain village of Arachova. Arachova is generally a bit cheaper.

We stayed in Delphi, but would like to try Arachova next time (we heard it is even nicer than Delphi). For those traveling with children, most hotels are very family-friendly, and some even offer rooms with balconies and a view of the sea in the distance.

Here are our favorite places to stay in Delphi:

Xenonas Christo: A very cozy and budget-friendly hotel, with beautiful views, friendly owners, and also family rooms.
Komody: Nice studio/apartment for 2-4 persons, with a small balcony and perfectly located.
Delphic Horizons: Large apartment with everything you need and a beautiful view. You can also order a delicious breakfast from the friendly hosts.

Here are our favorite places to stay in Arachova:

Paeonioa Arachova: Budget friendly and nice place with fantastic breakfast and nice rooms.
Del Mountain Home: Cosy apartment on the ground floor of a stone house, with a fireplace for the winter and a BBQ for the summer.
Cozy Villa Parnassos: A complete house, beautifully decorated and even with a fireplace.

Delphi is one of those places that stays with you. Not only because of the impressive history and ruins, but also because of the peace, the atmosphere and the beauty of the landscape. We left Delphi with the feeling that we had experienced something special, as if the oracle had whispered a secret to us. So if you are looking for a place that takes you back to ancient Greece and at the same time pampers your senses, put Delphi on your list.