Delphi Tourism (2023) - Greece > Top Places, Travel Guide

Delphi Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1 - 2 Days

Best Time: April to October Read More

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"Center of Universe"

Delphi Tourism

Delphi is a town, and a UNESCO recognised world heritage site in Greece. This archaeological marvel is perched on Mount Parnassus and offers stunning vistas of the Greek land. Delphi is also known as the 'navel of Earth' as, according to Greek mythology, it was considered the center of the world, marked by the Omphalos, a symbolic navel stone. Delphi enjoys a significant role in shaping the region's history since it is said to be the home to the legendary Delphic Oracle, where the pilgrims would travel to hear the prophecies of the god Apollo from all around the Mediterranean.

Delphi's surroundings are typical of the Greek countryside, with hilly, winding roads that host several trekking trails. The oracle and the sanctuary of Delphi are overlooked by two enormous cliffs known as the Phaidriades or the Shining Rocks at the foothills of Mount Parnassos. Surrounding this area are Arahova to Kirra, studded with olive groves and lush greenery. Together, these form the incredible Delphic landscape.

Delphi is an excellent location for history lovers. The temple of Apollo is bordered by monuments honouring the city-states, rulers, and local folk of ancient Greece, and the atmosphere there is still extraordinary. Tourists can also visit a theatre located north of the sanctuary, where competitions for music and theatre are held. In addition, the Pythian Games were held in the Stadium, which can be reached by hiking even higher. Delphi is an excellent one-day stop on your trip to Greece to understand the deep-rooted history of the region.

1. Temple of Apollo

The temple of Apollo, situated at Mount Parnassos, is a sacred shrine of Lord Apollo. It is part of the Delphi archaeological site and can be accessed on the same ticket. People worldwide visit to wor (Read More)ship here and appreciate the Doric architecture with sculptures of God Apollo winning the mythological battles. The temple has a rich history behind it, including the victory of Lord Apollo over Python.
Timings: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, except Tuesday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

2. Treasury of Athens

The Athenian Treasury is situated in the temple of Apollo. It was a treasury to securely store the war loot and some offerings for the god Apollo. It is in Doric architectural styl (Read More)e, built with Parian Marble, where the outer walls depict Hercules and Theseus. The building was constructed in the 5th century (BC) to emphasize the victory of Athens in the Marathon battle over the Persians. The internal walls portray ancient carvings of chants dedicated to Lord Apollo.

3. Archaeological Museum of Delphi

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is one of the most valued museums in Greece that accommodates ancient Greek art, architectural monuments, and remnants of the Apollo Sanctuary. The two-st (Read More)ory museum of 2270 square meters has fourteen rooms for exhibitions. Some highlights are the frieze of the Siphnian Treasury, Chryselephantine sculptures, the Charioteer of Delphi, the Sphinx of Naxos, and some bronze sculptures.
Timings: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM daily.
Cost: EUR 6 (included in the ticket of Delphi Archeaological Site)

4. Chryso VIllage

Chryso is an ancient village town in Phocis in Greece just 2 km from Delphi in southwest direction, opening doors to the mesmerizing views of the Corinthian Gulf. Built as an arena on the foothills of (Read More) Mount Parnassus, the location is fondly called "the balcony of Delphi," surrounded by lush green olive trees. Nature enthusiasts and historians find the village immensely indulging and worthy of exploration.

5. Tholos of Delphi

The Tholos of Delphi is considered the most iconic monument in Delphi but has no clear function or history attached to it. It is located a short but difficult walk from the main ruins. Although n (Read More)ot convenient, the structure is worth every effort with spectacular views of mountains and lush greenery. It is a circular temple in the Athena Pronaia Sanctuary built around 380 to 360 BC. The architectural style depicts Doric columns having four metopes. It is said to be constructed by the architect Theodorus who described the principal designs of the monument.

6. Delphi Stadium

The Ancient Stadium of Delphi is one of the most preserved archaeological sites.It is situated at the highest spot above the Apollo Temple, surrounded by greenery and supported by mountains. It is a u (Read More)nique place to visit because of the epic construction that can hold 6500 spectators. It has been reconstructed several times and holds The Pythian and Panhellenic Games, music festivals, and competitions.

Must Know Before You Travel to Delphi

Delphi Entry Ticket:
The entry ticket to Delphi is EUR 12.
The tickets can be bought on the spot or are included in the bus tours
It is valid for both archaeological site and the museum
The only way to go to Delphi from Athens is by car or through a 1-day bus tour.
Since Delphi is a historical site, it is better to visit with a guide to learn about the different ruins.
No restrooms are available around the archaeological sites. Unfortunately, even the museums aren't equipped with a restroom or canteen.
Most places in Delphi are open till eight at night during the summers. Therefore, arriving early or spending the night before somewhere nearby is preferable. The sanctuaries are packed with tourists in large groups, and tours start at 10:00 in the morning.
Tourists usually visit Delphi for a day, so hotels and hostels throughout the town aren't that expensive.
If you do not want to purchase a package tour, try booking your accommodation at either Arachova or Galaxidi, which are both a 30-minute drive from Delphi.
Several businesses offer day tours to Delphi from Athens for between EUR 80 and EUR 100. However, you can save money by travelling via long-distance buses, for which the one-way fare wouldn't be more than 15 Euros.