Delphi: A One-Day Romantic Sightseeing Adventure Off the Beaten Path
Delphi, Greece
1 days
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
Attractions in Itinerary (3)
1Temple of Apollo
An ancient Greek temple, once the center of the Oracle of Delphi.
2Delphi Archaeological Museum
The museum that houses the ancient artifacts found in the archaeological site of Delphi.
3Delphi Landscape
The stunning landscape around Delphi, featuring rolling hills, olive groves, and views of the Gulf of Corinth.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Moussaka
A traditional Greek dish made of layered eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce, often served in local tavernas in Delphi.
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
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
Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs, a common appetizer in Delphi and throughout Greece.
Spanakopita
A savory Greek pastry made with phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese. It's a popular snack or appetizer in Delphi.
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
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
A baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce, often compared to lasagna. It's a common dish in Delphi.
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
An anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Delphi and throughout Greece.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Car Rental
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.
Taxi
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.
Bus
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
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.
Foot
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.
Bicycle Rental
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.
Private Transfer
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.
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
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!
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Delphi, Greece
Thermopylae
Historical site of the famous Battle of Thermopylae.
Galaxidi
A beautiful small port town with traditional architecture.
Arachova
A mountain town known for its bright multi-colored carpets and rugs.
Hosios Loukas Monastery
A historic walled monastery situated near the town of Distomo.
Meteora
A rock formation in central Greece hosting one of the largest and most precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries.
Athens
The capital of Greece, known for its archaeological sites.
Corinth
Known for its ancient ruins and the famous Corinth Canal.
Nafpaktos
A town known for its Venetian Castle and the Battle of Lepanto.
Patras
Greece's third-largest city and the regional capital of Western Greece.
Livadeia
A city known for its castle and the Krya Springs.
