Delphi Day Trip From Athens: All You Need To Know

Are you planning a Delphi day trip from Athens?

If you are looking to expand your cultural horizons and explore the grandeur of ancient Greece, then an adventurous day trip to Delphi is just what you need!

Stretching far beyond its renowned archaeological site, this small town located 162 km southwest of Athens holds much more than meets the eye. From historical monuments such as the Temple of Apollo to breathtaking natural views – think glorious mountains and lush green valleys – a trip to Delphi will guarantee unforgettable experiences fit for any admiration.

Visiting Delphi was one of our favourite day trips from Athens and a day filled with interesting discoveries and fun!

➡️ In a rush? 🗺️ The easiest way to get to Delphi is to drive a rental car 🚗. Discover Cars offers the cheapest rates & generous cancellation policy. Alternatively, you can also book a guided tour if you’re after a more hassle-free experience.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at all you need to know to have a successful day trip Athens Delphi – from car rental tips and best-guided tours to a list of must-see attractions – so that travellers like yourself don’t miss out on even the smallest details.

Delphi Day Trip From Athens: At A Glance

Here are some of the most important information with regard to the day trip Delphi from Athens:

Is It Worth Visiting Delphi From Athens?

If you’re considering a trip to Athens, you might be wondering whether it’s worth making the journey to Delphi, roughly two and a half hours away. As someone who has made the trip, we can say without hesitation that it’s absolutely worth it.

Delphi was once considered the centre of the world by the ancient Greeks, a place where individuals visited Delphi for over 1000 years to receive prophecies from Pythia, a priestess believed to receive messages from the Greek god Apollo.

The ruins are incredibly well-preserved, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into the culture and religion of ancient Greece. From the towering Temple of Apollo to the grandiose theatre, every corner of Delphi is packed with ancient wonder and mystery.

But it’s not just the historical landmarks that draw visitors to Delphi. The town itself is perched on a hillside overlooking a picturesque valley, providing stunning views that are bound to take your breath away.

How To Get From Athens To Delphi

If you’re planning to take a Delphi day trip from Athens independently, you have a couple of options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Getting From Athens To Delphi By Car

WHY CHOOSE THIS OPTION?

Organising your own day trip from Athens to Delphi by renting a car is super easy and cost-effective, especially when you travel as a couple, family or a group of friends.

We did the drive from Athens to Delphi ourselves, and it was very straightforward and easy to follow. There are two routes you can take, and one of them includes a toll road, which is worth taking because it saves around 40 minutes of the journey.

During the drive, we went through two payment stations, and each cost over €3. So, for about €7 one way, it saves you 40 minutes of driving. The roads are in really good shape, and on the way, you will go past some beautiful landscapes.

Renting a car in Athens will give you flexibility. We combined the self-driven Athens to Delphi tour with a relaxing time on the beach, which was the perfect combo!

Having your own car will also allow you to visit early in the morning, before the rest of the world. We visited in April and entered Delphi right at the opening time, and enjoyed the site with just a handful of other early risers. Another advantage of getting to Delphi early is a beautiful mellow light, perfect for photography!

Getting By Bus To Delphi From Athens

WHY CHOOSE THIS OPTION?

If you’re a solo traveller or not a confident driver, you can always take a bus from Athens to Delphi. The bus is the best way to get to Delphi from Athens for travellers on a budget and with a whole spare day. It is also a good option off-season when you don’t have to worry about not getting a seat on the bus or crowds at Delphi.

The buses from Athens to Delphi run four times per day, with the first one at 8:30 am with a trip time of about 3 hours. You can take this bus from KTEL Liosion Bus Station. Take Blue Line from Monastiraki Square and get off at Kato Patissa Metro Stop. It will take around 20 minutes on the metro, plus a few minutes walk to reach the bus terminal.

The tickets cost just over €15 each way, so if you’re travelling as a couple, we highly recommend renting a car which often works out cheaper than 2 return tickets and gives you so much more flexibility. Plus, driving to Delphi from Athens is super straightforward.

Return buses to Delphi from Athens: 11 am, 4 pm, 6:30 pm.

Check ktel-fokidas.gr site for an up-to-date itinerary.

Best Tours To Delphi From Athens

Day Trip Athens to Delphi – TOP RATED

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR?

This tour is one of the top-rated Delphi tours from Athens and also the most budget-friendly one. It is a great option for a hassle-free day trip and for those travellers that value learning about the history and significance of Delphi, not just strolling around its ruins.

The tour takes up to 49 participants and is available in English and French.

WHAT’S PROVIDED?

ITINERARY

Starting with pick-up from selected hotels and leaving Athens at 8:30, you will arrive at the archaeological site at around 11:30, where you’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide through the breathtaking remnants of ancient Greece’s most important religious sanctuary.

Take your own time to snap photos before you head to the Delphi Archeological Museum to explore the sanctuary’s most precious treasures.

After that, you’ll have a delicious lunch in Delphi and replenish your energy reserves for the rest of the tour. On the way back, you’ll make stops at Arachova and Levadia – two charming handicraft towns where you can browse local crafts and immerse yourself in the traditions of the region.

This tour is the perfect way to dig deep into ancient Greek culture and create lasting memories of one of the country’s most iconic sites.

Tour To Delphi From Athens – SMALL GROUP

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR?

This Delphi from Athens tour is ideal for travellers wanting a more intimate experience since the tour company guarantees groups up to a maximum of 10 participants.

WHAT’S PROVIDED?

ITINERARY

Discover the ancient treasures of Delphi on an immersive 9-hour tour in a small group. Begin your journey with a convenient pick-up service from your centrally located hotel before setting off towards one of Greece’s most captivating locations.

Along the way, take in the sights and sounds of Levadia before arriving at your destination- Delphi. Be guided through the ruins and learn about the significance of Delphi from your knowledgeable guide.

Take your own time to snap some stunning photographs before heading towards the Delphi Archaeological Museum. With a wealth of fascinating artefacts, you’ll be transported back to a time when myths and legends were commonplace.

Before heading back to Athens, take a quick stop in Arachova, home to a charming handicraft town, where you can purchase traditional souvenirs to remember your journey. 

PRIVATE – Day Tour From Athens To Delphi

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR?

For travellers that prefer a fully flexible tour Delphi from Athens but prefer not to drive, a private tour is the best option. On a private tour, you won’t need to share a minivan with anyone else and will receive the undivided attention of the driver.

WHAT’S PROVIDED?

ITINERARY

Beginning at 8 am, be picked up from your hotel or port and start your day with a stop at the quaint town of Levadia. From there, the tour continues to the Monastery of Hosios Loukas, an incredible example of Byzantine architecture.

After a scenic drive, you will arrive at Delphi, where you have the freedom to tour the archaeological site at your leisure and marvel at the remains of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theatre.

A visit to the Delphi Archaeological Museum follows, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the sanctuary and its surroundings.

Take a break from all the exploring with a delicious lunch before continuing on the journey. On the way back, your driver will stop at Arachova handicraft town, where you can embrace the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.

This 10-hour private Delphi tour from Athens is the perfect choice for those not wanting to travel in a large group and wanting a more intimate experience.

Things To Do In Delphi

Ancient Theatre of Delphi

One of the most remarkable sites from ancient Greece is the Theatre of Delphi. With a capacity of nearly 5,000 spectators, this theatre was built in the 4th century BC and hosted various performances and events over the years. The panoramic views from the site are simply breathtaking, showcasing the natural beauty of the mountainous region of central Greece.

One of the most notable events to take place at the Theatre of Delphi was the Pythian Games, held every four years to honour the Greek god Apollo. This Ancinet festival not only included athletic competitions but also included music and poetry performances.

Temple of Apollo

At the foothills of Mount Parnassus in Delphi lies one of the most legendary sacred sites of ancient times – the Temple of Apollo. This ancient temple, built in the 4th century BC, was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of healing, music, poetry, and prophecy.

The temple was the beating heart of the Delphic oracle, a place where pilgrims would seek guidance about their future, often from a young Pythia whose drug-induced prophecies were interpreted by the priests.

The temple’s grand architecture, featuring Doric columns supporting a pediment and a frieze, reflects the power and importance of Apollo, one of the most prominent deities in Greek mythology. 

The Treasury

The Treasury in Delphi is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. For centuries, it served as the place where offerings to Apollo were stored, including valuable gifts given by visiting dignitaries from faraway lands.

Built around the 5th and 6th century BC, sometimes around the decisive battle of Marathon and the establishment of the Athenian democracy, the Treasury is a testament to the prowess of the Athenian polis. The building is one of the best preserved in Delphi because it was continuously used by pawnbrokers (money lenders).

Ancient Stadium

The ancient Stadium is a marvel of engineering and architecture. Built in the 5th century BC, it was used for the Pythian Games, which were held every four years in honour of the god Apollo. The stadium could hold around 7,000 spectators, and the athletes competed in events such as running and chariot races on the track and field.

One of the most impressive things about the stadium is its location – it was built on the side of Mount Parnassus, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

Sanctuary of Athena Pronea

When taking a Delphi day trip from Athens, don’t forget to check out a separate archaeological site that is situated a few hundred meters below the main entrance. Your ticket includes the entrance to this site, and it would be a shame to miss out on it.

Dating back to the 4th century BCE, this sanctuary was dedicated to the goddess Athena and was known for its impressive architecture and intricate design. Its most impressive structure is Tolos – a circular building consisting of 20 Doric columns.

Delphi Archeological Museum

Also, don’t miss out on the small but mighty in-house museum that houses countless pieces of art and artefacts that have been uncovered in the surrounding areas of Delphi. We were really impressed by its magnificent statues!

Among them are the Charioteer of Delphi, a magnificent bronze statue believed to have been created in 478 BC, and the Sphinx of Naxos, an imposing limestone statue that wards off evil spirits.

Delphi Day Trip From Athens: FAQ

How far is Delphi from Athens by car?

Delphi is 162 km from Athens by car and takes about 2.5 hours to reach.

How much time do you need in Delphi Greece?

The main archaeological site of Delhpi is not as large as it may seem, and it takes around 2 hours to see all its monuments while listening to a guide or an audio commentary. The ticket also gives access to a fantastic museum, where all of Delphi’s most precious artefacts are kept, and another small archaeological site located a little further down the road.

So, all in all, we’d say it takes a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 hours to visit it all.

Can you get to Delphi from Athens by train?

While it’s possible to take the train, it’s not a direct route and can take over 5 hours. For the most time-effective trip from Athens to Delphi, we recommend taking a direct bus or driving independently.

Is there an entrance fee for Delphi?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Delphi archaeological site and museum. The tickets cost €12 per person and are valid for one day. During the winter season, from November to March, the tickets cost only €6.

Do you need a guide in Delphi Greece?

While it is possible to explore Delphi on your own, having a knowledgeable guide can truly make all the difference. A guide can offer insights into the history and culture of the area, taking you through the ancient ruins and explaining their significance. 

If you don’t have a budget for a guide, we recommend doing research before your trip and reading about Delphi extensively so that you know the context of what you’re going to see.

Is there a dress code for Delphi?

If you’re planning a trip to Delphi, you may be wondering if there is a dress code in place. While there isn’t an official dress code for visitors exploring the archaeological site, it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately for the activity and location.

Delphi can get quite hot in the summer, so breathable, lightweight clothing is recommended. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the site of Delphi requires some amount of walking and exploring. 

However, since you’ll be visiting a historical site, it’s best to avoid wearing anything too revealing or inappropriate for a place of worship and historical significance.

Can you walk around Delphi?

The answer is a resounding yes! Delphi may have been at the heart of ancient Greek mythology, but it’s also a very practical place to visit. Once you arrive, you’ll have the chance to walk around the ruins and explore its many wonders. Whether you’re interested in the Temple of Apollo or the stadium where ancient athletes competed, it’s all just yards away.

Why is Delphi so popular?

Delphi, a site that rests within the beautiful backdrop of Mount Parnassus in Greece, is an archaeological treasure like no other. Not only is it one of the most crucial ancient Greek ruins, but it was also celebrated as the centre of the world, the place where Apollo, the Greek god of prophecy, is said to have left his priestess to tell people their futures.

You can hardly walk around without feeling the mystical energy that surrounds every corner. In addition, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, further cementing its importance not just in Greece but in the entire world.

The grand scale of its amphitheatre is another attraction point, with its 5,000 seating capacity taking visitors on a journey through time back to 4th century BC Greece. Delphi is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in ancient history or simply in awe of beauty and wonder.

Delphi Day Trip From Athens: Final Word

As a traveller, you are always on the hunt for an adventure that will leave you spellbound. And when it comes to exploring ancient Greece, nothing can beat a visit to Delphi.

This historical city is an easy day trip from Athens, where you can witness impressive ruins and learn about ancient Greek mythology. Whether you’re a history buff or not, the scenic views at Delphi are an experience in itself. 

We hope you found this guide to taking a Delphi day trip from Athens helpful, and most importantly, you are convinced to take this enriching adventure!