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Delphi Tours from Athens: How To Do a Daytrip

I spent a whole year overlanding, visiting EVERY COUNTRY IN EUROPE, and finally I was in Greece. Where all roads lead to Athens (isn’t that what they say? Maybe not). Anyway, once here, I also wanted to hit up Delphi. But just how is the best way to work out my Delphi Tours from Athens? How do I go about organising a day trip? I figured it out, so you don’t have to. So let’s have a look:

TLDR? You can do Delphi in a day trip from Athens either via public transport. Or, do what I did, spend an extra 30 euro or so a book a day trip. THIS IS THE TRIP I TOOK. I booked via GetYourGuide.

Delphi Tours from Athens: How To Do a Daytrip

If you’re visiting Athens and fancy a change of scenery, a Delphi daytrip from Athens is an absolute must. Known as the “navel of the world” in ancient Greek mythology, Delphi was once the heart of the Greek world. Today, it offers a mix of stunning ruins, jaw-dropping landscapes, and a peek into Greece’s legendary past. Here’s everything you need to know about organizing Delphi tours from Athens, whether you’re keen on joining a guided group or going it alone.

You can book a small group daytrip from Athens for less than $100 with THESE GUYS.

Why Visit Delphi?

Located about 180 kilometers northwest of Athens, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s famous for its ancient sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, where the Oracle of Delphi once delivered cryptic prophecies to those seeking guidance. But it’s not just the history that draws people; the dramatic setting, perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus with panoramic views of the valley below, is worth the trip alone.

Ancient Delphi stretches back to 700BC, when the Greeks considered it to be the centre of the entire world. With that in mind, they constructed the Sanctuary of Apollo amidst their ancient town. When you enter the sight (6 Euro/$7.50), it’s apparent that the sanctuary is still in pretty good condition, all things considered.

A Delphi daytrip from Athens gives you a chance to escape the hustle of the city and immerse yourself in the myths, history, and serene atmosphere of one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

My experience taking one of the Delphi tours from Athens:

I booked THIS TOUR as a day trip from Athens.

The grounds are quite large, so you need at least an hour to wander around. You can see the impressive ampitheatre, looking out towards the amazing expansive landscape.

Clamber on higher through the town and you come to the awesome running track, the games here were second only in importance to the Olympics. The 180m track runs straight, complete with spectator sections, judges seats and starting blocks. To think that over 2000 years ago these guys were using the same form of entertainment as we are today really blows my mind

Delphi town is a quaint little backwater, it only has a population of around 10, 000 people but it serves its purpose well. The museum (6 Euro/$7.50) and Ancient Greece are only about 500m walk from the city centre which is really convenient.

I had another one of those great travel moments last night in one of the restaurants actually where we were sitting with a good friend of mine, we ordered two Greek salads, 400m from Ancient Delphi, watching Greece play football in the European Championships as the locals backed their team. Beautiful – this is travel.

How to Get to Delphi from Athens

1. Organized Delphi Tours from Athens

The easiest way to visit is by booking one of the many Delphi tours from Athens. These typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes even lunch. The big advantage is convenience—no need to worry about figuring out public transport or navigating mountain roads. Plus, a guide can really bring the site’s history to life.

Tours usually start early in the morning, around 7 or 8 a.m., and get you back to Athens by early evening. Costs range from €80 to €120 per person, depending on the tour company and what’s included.

NOTE: These guys are less than $100. That was what did.

Tip: When picking a tour, look for one that includes stops at the Delphi Museum and the Temple of Athena Pronaia, which are sometimes overlooked on cheaper options.

2. DIY Delphi Daytrip from Athens

If you prefer to go at your own pace, a self-guided Delphi daytrip from Athens is a great option. Here are your main choices for getting there:

• By Bus: KTEL buses run daily from Athens to Delphi. Tickets cost around €15 each way, and the journey takes about 3 hours. While it’s affordable, the schedule can be a bit limiting, and you won’t have a guide to explain the site’s history.

• By Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility. The drive takes around 2.5 hours, and the route is straightforward. Be sure to stop at some of the picturesque villages along the way, like Arachova, known for its charm and traditional Greek hospitality.

Highlights of your Delphi daytrip

Once you arrive, there’s plenty to see. Here are the must-visit spots:

1. The Temple of Apollo

This is the centerpiece of the archaeological site. Imagine ancient Greeks flocking here to hear the cryptic words of the Pythia, the priestess of Apollo. Today, the ruins still carry a sense of mystique.

2. The Delphi Museum

Right next to the main site, this museum houses some of the most significant artifacts found in Delphi, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi statue.

3. The Stadium

Perched high above the temple, the ancient stadium hosted the Pythian Games, a precursor to the Olympics. The view from here is breathtaking.

4. Temple of Athena Pronaia

Located slightly downhill from the main complex, this temple is often quieter and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Delphi

The best time for Delphi tours from Athens is during the shoulder seasons, in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are more manageable. Summers can be scorching, and the midday heat makes exploring uncomfortable. Winters are quieter, but some facilities may have reduced hours.

If you go during summer, aim to arrive early to avoid both the heat and the crowds.

What to Bring on Your Delphi Daytrip

A Delphi daytrip from Athens involves a fair bit of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. Here’s a quick packing list to make your trip smooth:

• Water bottle: There’s limited shade, so staying hydrated is essential.
• Hat and sunscreen: Especially if visiting in summer.
• Snacks: While there are cafes in Delphi, it’s always handy to have something on hand.
• Camera or smartphone: You’ll want to capture the incredible views.
• Cash: For small purchases or tips, as not all vendors accept cards.

Related Post: For those who love combining history and adventure, you might also enjoy my guide on how to visit Petra in Jordan – another awe-inspiring ancient site that’s perfect for day trips.

Should You Stay Overnight in Delphi?

While it’s possible to see Delphi in a day, staying overnight in the nearby town allows you to experience the area without the rush of day-trippers. The town of Arachova is particularly charming, with cozy guesthouses and excellent tavernas serving hearty Greek meals.

Spending the night also means you can explore the area’s hiking trails or even visit the nearby Corycian Cave, a mystical spot linked to ancient Greek mythology.

FAQs about Delphi tours from Athens

1. Is a Delphi daytrip from Athens worth it?

Absolutely. The combination of history, mythology, and stunning natural scenery makes it one of the best day trips from Athens.

2. Can I visit Delphi on my own without a guide?

Yes, you can. While guided Delphi tours from Athens provide valuable insights, you can explore independently with a good guidebook or audio guide.

3. How long do you need to explore Delphi?

You’ll need about 2–3 hours to see the main site and museum. Add an extra hour if you want to visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia.

4. Is Delphi accessible year-round?

Yes, but the opening hours vary by season. Always check in advance, especially if visiting during winter.

Related Post: For another fantastic day trip idea, don’t miss my piece on hiking Mount Batur in Bali—a unique experience filled with stunning views and adventure.

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re drawn by its ancient history, its natural beauty, or simply the chance to escape Athens for the day, a Delphi daytrip from Athens is an experience you won’t forget. Whether you choose an organized tour or prefer to go at your own pace, the journey to Delphi offers a perfect blend of myth and reality.

For more on Greek travel, ancient ruins, and unforgettable adventures, check out this comprehensive Wikipedia page about Greek mythology. It’s a great way to dive deeper into the legends that make Delphi so fascinating.

Planning your trip? Let me know in the comments how your Delphi daytrip from Athens went—or if you have any tips to share!