Delphi

The basics

The only way to explore the sprawling Delphi Archeological Site is on foot. Delphi tours offer greater insight into the fascinating history of the archaeological site, while the nearby Delphi Archaeological Museum offers an array of traditional Greek exhibits dating back to ancient times. Most visitors see the ancient city on a day tour from Athens or Patras, often combined with nearby attractions such as Arachova, Saint Lucas Monastery, or Meteora.

Things to know before you go

• The ruins are spread over a large area, so plan at least half a day to take in the highlights with a tour guide. You can buy Delphi tickets in advance or on the day and hire an audio guide.

• Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes to walk around the ruins of the temple.

• The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is wheelchair-accessible, but due to steep and uneven ground, it is not possible to visit the ruins up close via wheelchair.

How to get there

Delphi is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus in central Greece, 112 miles (180 kilometers) northwest of Athens. The closest airport is in Athens, about 3 hours away, which can be reached by bus or car.

When to get there

The busiest time to visit this part of Greece is the summer, so arrive early if you want to skip the lines and avoid the midday heat. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, visiting in the spring is a popular alternative, while winter visitors can make the most of the nearby ski resorts.

Ancient Delphi in Greek mythology

In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the center of the world, or the place where heaven and earth met. Legend says that Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the earth to find its center, and they met over this island. The city became a sanctuary to the god Apollo and home of the famous Oracle of Delphi, known to commune with the spirit of Apollo to give advice on everything from domestic matters to war.

Ways to explore

You can visit Delphi’s archaeological site and the neighboring Delphi Archaeological Museum independently, or with a guided tour to help you make sense of the sanctuary’s millennia of history. Don’t skip the museum, which displays famous artifacts unearthed from Delphi, including the bronze Charioteer sculpture won as a prize during the Pythian Games of the fifth century BC.

Day trips from Athens take care of transportation and often include visits to nearby attractions, such as Arachova—a ski village with stunning views of Mt. Parnassus—and Thermopylae, the site of a decisive battle in the Greco-Persian Wars.

Accessibility

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is wheelchair accessible, while the archaeological site is not due to its steep terrain. Visitors with limited mobility can visit the ruins by vehicle by contacting the site at least a week in advance. The site has accessible restrooms and dedicated parking spaces for travelers with disabilities. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, plenty of water, sunscreen

What to wear

You’ll spend lots of time outdoors exploring Delphi’s ruins, so dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for the site’s steps and dirt paths. In summer, you’re advised to wear light-colored clothing to help with the heat.

Not allowed

Pets, veering off marked visiting paths at the archaeological site

Amenities

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi has a gift shop, restrooms, and audio guides.

Address

Delphi is at the foot of Mt. Parnassus in central Greece, 115 miles (185 kilometers) northwest of Athens. The closest airport is in Athens, around a 2.5-hour drive away. If you only plan to visit Delphi for one day, it’s most convenient to book a guided excursion from Athens that includes round-trip transportation.

Driving

From Athens, drive on E75 toward Lamia, then exit at Kastro and take EO48 to Delphi. Parking is limited at the museum and archaeological site, so you may have to search for street parking.

Public transportation

The KTEL Fokidas bus runs a few times a day between Athens (Liosion bus terminal) and Delphi (near the archaeological site), taking three hours each way.

Best times to visit

Depart in the morning to maximize your time—you’ll need at least a half day to explore Delphi’s ruins and museum, or a full day if you’re coming from Athens.

Best days to visit

Save money by visiting on the archaeological site’s free-admission days, which are listed on the website, or go whenever the weather best suits a walk around the open-air ruins.

Best months to visit

March to May is a lovely time to visit Delphi’s outdoor attractions, as temperatures are mild and there’s little rain. Winter visitors can enjoy the nearby ski resorts.

Special events

Like many archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi often hosts special festivities for the August Full Moon, such as starlit concerts and late-night museum openings.