If you are also from afar in mythology, history or dramatic mountain views, the ruins of Delphi in Greece call their names. Delphi sat on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and was once considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. And honestly? There is still the same powerful mood today.
Regardless of whether you are a hardcore person interested in history or just someone who is welcome to explore. Here you can find out how you can make optimal use of your trip to Delphi – without getting lost in a sea of ​​tour buses.
Why Delphi is a must that you have to visit
Delphi was the most important religious center in ancient Greece and the place of the legendary oracle of Apollo. It is now one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country – and for a good reason. They are whispered by the Temple of Apollo, the old theater with a view of the mountains, the sports stadium and a whole range of atmospheric ruins, the stories about prophecy, power and politics.
Even if you are not mythology nerd, the energy here is magnetic. These old stones and the epic Valley view are only a bit of the view that they have entered a myth.
Arrival there: your options
Delphi is approximately 2.5 to 3-hour ride northwest of Athens, which the perfect day trip—or better, an overnight stay. There are various ways for you to get there:
- Public bus
Yes, it is feasible. Buses regularly drive from Athens to Delphi and they are quite affordable. But they will be bound to their schedule, which means less flexibility.
- Rent a car
Would you like to explore at your own pace? If you rent a car, you have the freedom to take the picturesque route, to stop photos and maybe even look near cities like Arachova – a charming alpine village that feels directly from a snow globe.
- Private tour
If you want no stress, maximum information and a driver who actually knows the best points of view, it is the right way to book one of the private Greece tours. You get a more personal experience, and many tours include extras such as a stop in the Delphi Museum or a lunch break with killer Mountain View. Besides, you don’t have to google. “What did the oracle of Delphi actually do?” – Your guide covered her.
Go
Spring (April – June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal. The weather is mild and is not overrun with tourists. Summer is hot and busy. So if you don’t like to sweat through holy sights, try to avoid the Peak July -August.
Winter is quieter and the air is crispy, but check the weather in front of you – Delphi is in the mountains and snow is not unknown.
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes – You will go on uneven stone paths and some uphill stretches.
- Water & snacks– Especially when you visit alone because the food options in the ruins are limited.
- Sunscreen & hat – because there are very little shade.
- A strange attitude – It’s more fun if you want to imagine what this place looked like 2,000 years ago.
Do not skip the museum
The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is located right next to the archaeological site, which honestly deserves as much hype. It houses all statues, artifacts and offers that have been uncovered here, including Delphi’s famous car driver, a breathtaking bronze sculpture that somehow survived. The museum gives countless context what they have just left.
Make one day (or two) of it
While Delphi is feasible in one day, you can spend the crowd nearby overnight and enjoy a quieter one in the early morning through the ruins (highly recommended!). Near Arachova is a great base – it is cozy, scenic and full of sweet taverns, in which you can reward yourself with grilled Halloumi and local wine after going.
Last thoughts
Seeing the old ruins of Delphi is a bit like a live story book – connected to gods, oracles and high drama. Regardless of whether you rent a car or book one of the professionally managed private Greece tours, this historical place is certainly the highlight of your Greek vacation.
So channel your inner philosopher, follow the omen and do not forget to bring your camera with you. Delphi is waiting.
