Delphi: A One-Day Romantic Sightseeing Adventure Off the Beaten Path

Delphi, Greece

1 days

Athenian treasury site
Temple of Athens Pronaia
Quaint village street at dusk
View of the ancient amphitheater
Ancient columns at Apollo temple

About Delphi, Greece

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of Delphi, Greece. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is renowned as the ancient sanctuary that grew rich as the seat of Pythia, the oracle consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. Visit the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Phocis Valley and explore the charming modern town with its quaint shops and traditional Greek cuisine. Delphi offers a unique blend of historical exploration and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Ancient and Cultural Wonders of Delphi

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the ancient site of Delphi. Known as the 'navel of the world' in ancient times, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Temple of Apollo, where the famous Oracle of Delphi resided. Spend your morning exploring the ruins and soaking in the rich history and mythology of the place.

Lunch

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at a local taverna. Savor the flavors of local dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and souvlaki, paired with a glass of Greek wine.

Afternoon

Post lunch, head to the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Here, you can see artifacts unearthed from the archaeological site, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi. This will give you a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of Delphi.

Dinner

For dinner, choose a restaurant with a view of the stunning Delphi Landscape. Enjoy a leisurely meal featuring fresh seafood, Greek salads, and local cheeses, all while taking in the breathtaking views.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Delphi. Take in the serene atmosphere, admire the local architecture, and perhaps stop by a local shop to pick up a souvenir or two.

Attractions in Itinerary (3)

Temple of Apollo

1
Temple of Apollo

An ancient Greek temple, once the center of the Oracle of Delphi.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Delphi Archaeological Museum

2
Delphi Archaeological Museum

The museum that houses the ancient artifacts found in the archaeological site of Delphi.

Attractions
Museums
Delphi Landscape

3
Delphi Landscape

The stunning landscape around Delphi, featuring rolling hills, olive groves, and views of the Gulf of Corinth.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Moussaka

Moussaka

A traditional Greek dish made of layered eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce, often served in local tavernas in Delphi.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki

A classic Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes lemon juice, and dill. It's a common condiment for various dishes in Delphi.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki

Popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer. It's a common street food in Delphi.

Dolmades

Dolmades

Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs, a common appetizer in Delphi and throughout Greece.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita

A savory Greek pastry made with phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese. It's a popular snack or appetizer in Delphi.

Baklava

Baklava

A rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a common dessert in Delphi.

Fasolada

Fasolada

A traditional Greek white bean soup, often considered the national dish of Greece. It's a common meal in Delphi, especially during colder months.

Pastitsio

Pastitsio

A baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce, often compared to lasagna. It's a common dish in Delphi.

Retsina

Retsina

A traditional Greek white or rosé resinated wine, which has been made for at least 2000 years. It's a common drink in Delphi.

Ouzo

Ouzo

An anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Delphi and throughout Greece.

Horiatiki

Horiatiki

A traditional Greek salad made with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, feta cheese, and olives. It's a common dish in Delphi, especially during summer.

Frappé

Frappé

A Greek foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk. It's a popular drink in Delphi, especially during the hot summer months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Delphi, Greece is typically during the spring months of April and May, or during the fall months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is usually pleasant and mild, and the tourist crowds are less dense. You can enjoy the archaeological sites, museums, and beautiful landscapes in relative peace. Additionally, these periods offer a good balance between pleasant weather and reasonable prices for accommodation and flights.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 18

Mon

Clean Monday

March 25

Mon

Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

March 25

Mon

Greek Independence Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 3

Fri

Orthodox Good Friday

May 6

Mon

Orthodox Easter Monday

June 24

Mon

Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday

August 15

Thu

Dormition of the Holy Virgin

October 28

Mon

The Ochi day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around in Delphi. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city. This gives you the flexibility to explore Delphi and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Remember to drive on the right side of the road in Greece.

Taxis are readily available in Delphi. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are metered, but it's always a good idea to agree on the fare before starting the journey. Taxis can be a convenient way to get to specific destinations quickly.

Delphi is well-served by the KTEL bus network, which connects it to other cities and towns in Greece. The bus station in Delphi is located near the archaeological site. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel around the region, although they may not offer as much flexibility as a rental car.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Delphi. However, you can use local taxi services, which offer a similar door-to-door service.

Delphi is a small town and many of its attractions, including the archaeological site, the museum, and the town center, are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the town, especially in good weather.

Bicycles can be rented in Delphi for those who prefer a more active mode of transport. This can be a fun way to explore the town and its surroundings. However, be aware that Delphi is hilly and some routes may be challenging.

For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, you can book a private transfer. This could be from the airport to your accommodation, or for day trips to nearby attractions. Private transfers can be arranged through your hotel or local travel agencies.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 166; Fire: 112, 199; Police: 112, 100

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Delphi, Greece as a first time visitor

1

Delphi is located in central Greece, on the southwestern spur of Mount Parnassus.

2

The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used in Delphi is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

4

Delphi is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

5

The best time to visit Delphi is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller.

6

Delphi is a small town, so it's easy to get around on foot. However, the archaeological site is located uphill, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.

7

The town has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.

8

Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Delphi. Be sure to try local specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.

9

Tipping is customary in Greece. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is standard, and it's also common to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

10

Delphi operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

11

The town has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures in summer can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while in winter they can drop to around 41°F (5°C).

12

Remember to pack comfortable shoes for walking around the archaeological site, and a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun.

13

Public restrooms can be hard to find in Delphi, so take advantage of facilities at restaurants and tourist sites.

14

If you're planning to visit other parts of Greece, Delphi is well-connected by bus to cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

15

Delphi is not just a summer destination. In winter, the nearby Parnassos Ski Centre offers skiing and snowboarding.

16

Smoking is very common in Greece, and while it's banned in public places, the law is not always strictly enforced.

17

If you're a EU citizen, you can use your mobile phone in Greece at no extra cost. For non-EU citizens, it's worth checking with your provider about international roaming charges.

18

Tap water in Delphi is safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available.

19

Pharmacies in Greece are marked with a green cross, and can provide advice and over-the-counter medication for minor ailments.

20

Remember to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly, and avoid making loud noise.

Basic Greek to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Γεια σου

Yia sou

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Αντίο

Adio

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Παρακαλώ

Parakalo

Making a request or asking for something

Thank you

Ευχαριστώ

Efharisto

Showing appreciation or gratitude

Yes

Ναι

Nai

Agreeing or confirming

No

Όχι

Ohi

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Συγνώμη

Signomi

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Δεν καταλαβαίνω

Den katalaveno

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;

Milate Anglika?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I'm lost

Έχω χαθεί

Eho hathei

When you can't find your way

Where is...?

Που είναι...?

Pou ine...?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Τουαλέτα

Toualeta

Looking for the restroom

Help

Βοήθεια

Voitheia

In case of emergency

Food

Φαγητό

Fagito

When looking for a place to eat

Water

Νερό

Nero

Asking for water

Hotel

Ξενοδοχείο

Xenodoheio

Looking for a place to stay

Taxi

Ταξί

Taksi

Looking for transportation

How much does it cost?

Πόσο κοστίζει;

Poso kostizi?

Asking the price of something

Open

Ανοιχτό

Anoikto

Checking if a place is open

Closed

Κλειστό

Kleisto

Checking if a place is closed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Light jacket or sweater (for cooler evenings)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)

  • Health insurance card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera (if not using smartphone for photos)

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter (Greece uses Type C and F plugs)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Delphi

  • Map of Delphi

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel pillow (for the journey)

  • Earplugs and eye mask (for the journey)

  • First-aid kit

Weather Conditions

Delphi, Greece, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. The weather in Delphi varies throughout the year, so it's essential to plan your visit accordingly. During the summer months, from June to August, Delphi experiences warm to hot weather, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). It's a great time to explore the archaeological sites, but remember to wear sun protection, stay hydrated, and avoid the midday heat. The spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons are also pleasant times to visit. Temperatures during these periods typically range from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C). It's less crowded during these times, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking. Winter in Delphi, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures dropping to around 41°F (5°C). Snowfall is common during this period, which can add a magical touch to the ancient ruins but might disrupt travel plans. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Layered clothing is recommended as temperatures can fluctuate. Don't forget a good pair of walking shoes for exploring the archaeological sites and a water bottle to stay hydrated. Remember, the weather can change quickly in mountainous regions like Delphi, so always be prepared for unexpected changes. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful and historic part of Greece!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

13° / 0°

January is the coldest month in Delphi, with temperatures often dropping to freezing at night. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothing.

February

14° / 1°

February is still quite cold, with a slight increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots.

March

18° / 3°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually increasing. The weather is pleasant, making it a good time for sightseeing.

April

23° / 6°

April is a comfortable month to visit Delphi, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

May

29° / 10°

May offers warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's an excellent time to explore the archaeological sites.

June

34° / 15°

June marks the beginning of summer, with hot temperatures and long days. It's a popular time for beach activities and water sports.

July

37° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Delphi, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. It's a great time to visit the beaches, but be prepared for the heat.

August

37° / 18°

August is equally hot as July, with high temperatures and sunny days. It's a busy tourist season, so expect crowds.

September

33° / 14°

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, but it's still quite warm. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a less crowded period.

October

27° / 10°

October offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to enjoy the fall foliage in Delphi.

November

20° / 6°

November marks the beginning of the cooler months. It's a quiet time to visit, with fewer tourists and mild temperatures.

December

14° / 2°

December is a chilly month, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a peaceful time to visit, but pack warm clothing.

Did you know?

Did you know that Delphi, Greece was considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology?

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