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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Laia Utset Gil
ES

Laia

Spain
Oct 2025
4/5
‌
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The tour was great, and our tour guide, Mikael, was amazing. He made the whole tour super dynamic. I highly recommend the tour. Once in Delphi, if the weather is nice, I recommend going up to the stadium, we only had like 40 minutes to go up and back to the museum but it was enough if you have a light peace. The views are amazing from up there. The lunch was prolably the weakest point of the tour. To be honest it was nice for being part of th tour but not great for Greek standards I would say. But I guess Arachova (where you stop to eat) does not have that many other options The pictures are views from the up the sanctuary of Delphi (on the way back from th stadium) and the second one of the views from the clock tower of Arachova. As you can see both views are amazing
Victoria McVicar
CA

Victoria

Canada
Oct 2025
5/5
‌
review-image
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review-image
We thought our guide Georgia was great, as well as the driver. Only wish is we had more time to explore Arachova - traffic in Athens and a long wait at the Delphi museum limited our time there. Unfortunately we were there in the rain, but still enjoyable.
Valerie Laville
CA

Valerie

Canada
Nov 2025
4/5
Great places we visited! Too hard to see the VR guide though, as watching a cellphone screen in daytime is very difficult. The audio wasn't always working either. Note to the company: please fix the broken seats on the busses! Some people were fighting for seats during our tour...
Lior mencher
IL

Lior

Israel
Oct 2025
5/5
The living guide who accompanied us on the trip was cordial, interesting, and helpful. The virtual tour was annoying with its unnecessary gamesmanship.
Michele L Riel
CA

Michele

Canada
Oct 2025
5/5
It took a bit to sort out the audio tour at the site especially. It didn't always register which stop we were at. But once we found out #1-5 were closed to tourists, we could then follow the correct stops. Information was great and help a lot to understand the site and museum. We only had about 3 hours there, so the audio was perfect.
Wendy J Hastings

Wendy

Aug 2025
5/5
I loved that audio guide was geo- located so it picked up the commentary from my location. Enough detail to not be overwhelming.

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Just a few hours from Athens, Delphi offers one of Greece’s most rewarding day trips. The journey takes you from the capital’s modern streets into the mountains of Central Greece, where ancient temples, sweeping valleys, and the legend of the Oracle await. Choose from expert-led guided tours, self-paced audio experiences, or immersive VR day trips, all with comfortable transfers, entry tickets, and seamless coordination from Athens to Delphi and back.

Overview

  • Tour duration: 8 to 10 hours, depending on tour type
  • Cost range: €32.76 to €84, depending on inclusions and upgrades
  • Best time to visit: March to October for pleasant weather and clear views across the Parnassus valley
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Central Athens (typically near Syntagma or Omonia Square), with select tours offering pick-up in air-conditioned coaches or minibuses
  • Key attractions: Delphi Archaeological Site, Temple of Apollo, Archaeological Museum of Delphi, Arachova mountain village, guided or audio-led commentary, and optional Greek lunch
  • Recommended tour: From Athens: Day trip to Delphi site & Museum

What to expect on an Athens to Delphi day tour

Guests boarding a mini bus for city transfers.
Tour bus on winding road from Thera to cruise port, Santorini, Greece.
Ancient columns of the Temple of Apollo in Corinth, Greece, with a mountain backdrop.
Visitors observing ancient sculptures at Delphi Archaeological Museum.
Saganaki with lemon wedges on a plate in Athens, Greece.
Serpentine road by the sea at sunset in Athens, Greece, with mountains and rocks.
1/6

The perfect start in Athens

The direct highway connecting the capital to Delphi keeps the journey quick and seamless, with no need for transfers or overnight stays. You’ll depart in the morning from central Athens, often near Syntagma Square, aboard a modern, air-conditioned coach or minibus for a comfortable start to your day.

Scenic drive through central Greece

As you leave the city behind, the scenery shifts from whitewashed buildings to rolling farmland, vineyards, and olive groves. Pass through Boeotia and Livadia before climbing toward Mount Parnassus, with your guide offering stories about the regions once ruled by heroes of Greek mythology. A short coffee stop midway gives you a chance to stretch your legs before the final ascent to Delphi.

Arrival at the navel of the ancient world

Your first stop is the Delphi archaeological site, set high on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Walk with your guide along the Sacred Way, retracing the path once taken by pilgrims seeking the Oracle’s wisdom, then pause at the Temple of Apollo to take in the hillside theater and sweeping valley views once believed to mark the center of the world.

See Delphi’s treasures up close

After exploring the site, continue to the Delphi Archaeological Museum, where you’ll see the bronze Charioteer, the Naxian Sphinx, and temple friezes that once adorned Apollo’s sanctuary. Your guide or audio commentary connects these masterpieces to the ruins outside, offering a fuller picture of Delphi’s artistic and spiritual legacy.

Lunch and leisure in Arachova

After exploring the site, you’ll stop in Arachova, a charming mountain village just 10 minutes from Delphi. Settle in for a traditional Greek lunch at a local taverna or enjoy a stroll through cobbled streets lined with boutiques and handmade textiles.

Return journey to Athens

In the late afternoon, settle back into your coach for the return drive to Athens, retracing your route through central Greece as the sun sets behind the mountains. Most tours arrive back between 6:30 and 7:30pm, leaving your evening free to relax or enjoy dinner in the city.

Things to know before booking your Delphi tours

  • All Delphi day tours from Athens include round-trip transfers in air-conditioned coaches or minibuses, saving you the hassle of renting a car or navigating limited public transport.
  • The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way, with most tours departing between 7 and 8:30am from Syntagma or Omonia Square, accompanied by a professional escort to ensure a smooth, worry-free experience.
  • All Delphi day tours include entry to both the archaeological site and the museum, helping you avoid long ticket lines at the counters and spend more time exploring the ruins and artifacts.
  • Choose between a guided tour with a licensed expert who brings Delphi’s history to life, highlights key details, and helps you navigate the site, or a VR audio tour that lets you explore at your own pace with digital reconstructions of the ancient sanctuary.
  • Most day tours make a midday stop in Arachova, a mountain village just 10 minutes from Delphi, to enjoy a traditional Greek lunch, sip coffee with views of Mount Parnassus, or stroll through cobbled streets lined with artisan shops before heading back to Athens.
  • The Delphi archaeological site is built on a hillside with uneven terrain and several steps, making it difficult for wheelchair users to navigate. The Archaeological Museum, however, is fully accessible, with ramps and level flooring for a comfortable visit.
  • Tour buses and minibuses have designated parking and waiting areas near the site entrance, minimizing walking distances and ensuring an easy return after your visit.

Which Athens to Delphi day tour to choose?

ExperienceBest forDurationGuideTransfersInclusionsAdd-ons
VR audio-guided tours

Independent explorers who want to see ancient Delphi through immersive VR storytelling

10 hours

Audio guide (with VR headset)

Round-trip in an air-conditioned minibus

VR headset & multilingual audio guide, museum and site entry, escort during travel, stop in Arachova

Optional meal stop

Full-day guided tours

Travelers who want to dive deep into Delphi’s legends and history with engaging, expert-led insights

10 hours

Licensed English-speaking guide

Round-trip in an air-conditioned coach

Guided tour of site & museum, live commentary, Arachova stop, onboard Wi-Fi

Optional lunch

All-inclusive day tours

Those who want to pair guided exploration with authentic Greek dining & free time in scenic Arachova

10 hours

Licensed English-speaking guide

Round-trip in an air-conditioned coach

Guided site & museum visit, local lunch, Arachova stop, onboard Wi-Fi

Lunch & village exploration

One booking, everything covered

No need to juggle tours, tickets, and transfers separately. Our all-in-one Delphi packages include everything you need for a smooth, culture-filled day.

Ancient ruins of the Tholos of Delphi with mountains in the background, Greece.
See Delphi the easy way

Must-see spots in Delphi

Guests exploring the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece.

Temple of Apollo

Once the heart of ancient Delphi, this Doric sanctuary housed the Oracle of Apollo, where the priestess Pythia delivered prophecies that influenced kings and city-states across Greece.

Ruins of the Temple of Athena Pronaia in Delphi, Greece, with surrounding landscape.
Ancient ruins along the Sacred Way at Delphi Archaeological Site, Greece.
Athenian Treasury at Delphi Archaeological Site with stone columns and ancient ruins.
Theater of Delphi with mountainous landscape in the background, Delphi Archaeological Site, Greece.

Explore more along the way

Arachova Greece landscape with traditional houses and mountainous backdrop.
Hosios Loukas Monastery with Byzantine architecture, Delphi Archaeological Site, Greece.
Skier descending snowy mountain in Athens during Christmas.
Hikers with backpacks exploring a mountain cave entrance.
Audience attending a presentation at the Delphi Archaeological Site European Cultural Centre.
Central square in Chryso village, Delphi, Greece with trees and outdoor seating.
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Arachova

A lively alpine-style village just 10 minutes from Delphi, famous for its stone mansions, handwoven rugs, and cozy tavernas serving mountain cuisine with views of Parnassus.

Arachova Village of Delphi

Hosios Loukas Monastery

Around 45 minutes from Delphi, this UNESCO-listed monastery showcases glittering Byzantine mosaics, domed basilicas, and serene courtyards surrounded by olive-covered hills.

Mount Parnassus National Park

Stretching above Delphi, this protected area offers hiking trails, caves, and winter ski slopes, making it a year-round escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Corycian Cave (Pan’s Cave)

Hidden within Mount Parnassus, this vast limestone cavern was once a sacred site to the god Pan and the Nymphs, blending myth, nature, and ancient ritual.

European Cultural Centre of Delphi

A contemporary institution promoting art, music, and research, continuing Delphi’s ancient role as a meeting place for culture and philosophy.

Chrisso Village

Overlooking the Crisaean Plain, this peaceful settlement offers scenic walks among olive groves and traditional homes that preserve a timeless rural charm.

Plan your Athens to Delphi day trip

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  • The best time to visit Delphi is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, the landscape is green, and visitor numbers are manageable. Temperatures range between 18°C and 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the steep, open-air ruins without the discomfort of summer heat.
  • Summer (July to August) sees the highest crowds and midday temperatures that can exceed 35°C, especially around the exposed Sacred Way and Temple of Apollo. If visiting then, plan your entry early in the morning (around 8am) or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat and tour bus arrivals.
  • Winter (November to March) offers a quieter experience and reduced entry fees, but shorter daylight hours and occasional rain mean you should dress warmly and plan ahead, as the site closes earlier.

For photography and comfort, aim for early mornings or late afternoons year-round, when the light softens over Mount Parnassus and the valley views are at their most dramatic.

Most Delphi day trips begin from central Athens, with convenient meeting spots near Syntagma Square and Omonia Square, both easy to reach from any part of the city.

  • By metro: Take Line 3 (Blue) or Line 2 (Red) to Syntagma, or Line 1 (Green) or Line 2 to Omonia. Each station is just a few minutes’ walk from the main departure areas.
  • From popular neighborhoods: If you’re staying in Plaka, Monastiraki, or Koukaki, the meeting points are within a 10 to 20-minute walk or a short metro ride away.
  • From Athens International Airport (ATH): The airport lies about 35km from the city center. Metro Line 3 takes you directly to Syntagma in roughly 40 minutes, or you can take a taxi for a 35 to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic.
  • By taxi or rideshare: Early departures are easy with rideshare services like Beat or Uber, especially before metro operations begin in the morning.
Person tying purple sneakers next to high heels on wooden floor.
  • Valid ID or booking confirmation for check-in and entry verification
  • Cash in small denominations for souvenirs, cafés, or restrooms
  • Comfortable walking shoes for the uneven, uphill terrain around the ruins
  • Light, breathable layers and a jacket for changing mountain weather
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection on exposed paths
  • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, with refill taps near the entrance
  • Camera or smartphone to capture the valley views and temple remains
  • Umbrella or rain jacket in winter, cooling towel or fan in summer
Tourist taking photo from bus window on early morning
  • Round-trip transfers from central Athens in air-conditioned coaches or minibuses with onboard Wi-Fi and reclining seats
  • Licensed guides offering live commentary and full tour coordination
  • Virtual reality headsets and multilingual audio guides on select tours, allowing for an independent yet immersive exploration of Delphi’s ancient ruins
  • Free time in Arachova, the nearby mountain village known for its crafts, cafes, and views over Mount Parnassus
  • Traditional Greek lunch offered on all-inclusive tours, featuring local specialties like moussaka, grilled meats, and regional desserts served in family-run tavernas
Man pushing woman in wheelchair along Jardin Secret path.
  • The Delphi Archaeological Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps, wide corridors, and level flooring throughout the exhibition spaces.
  • The archaeological site itself sits on a steep hillside with uneven paths and stone steps, making full access challenging for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility.
  • The lower areas near the entrance, including the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia and parts of the Sacred Way, are partially accessible and offer good viewpoints without climbing.
  • Accessible restrooms are available at the museum, which also provides shaded seating areas for rest breaks.
No smoking sign on a pole in an outdoor setting.
  • Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited throughout the site.
  • Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at the museum cloakroom before entry.
  • Photography is allowed in most outdoor areas, but avoid flash inside the museum.
  • Tripods and professional equipment require prior permission from the site authorities.
  • Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
  • Keep to marked paths and avoid climbing on ancient walls, columns, or restricted areas.
  • Do not touch or lean on artifacts, statues, or architectural remains.
  • Food and drinks are not permitted within the archaeological site or museum, except for bottled water.

Visitor tips & guidelines

  • Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the ruins, or longer if the stadium is open. The museum is usually quieter early in the morning or after 2pm, once most group tours have departed.
  • The best time for photos and sightseeing is in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is softest around the theater and the Temple of Apollo. Use the midday hours to visit the shaded Archaeological Museum.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hat, and carry water, as the Sacred Way has little shade and uneven ground even outside the summer months.
  • Restrooms and water taps are located near the entrance, so refill your bottle before starting the climb.
  • If you are driving, aim to arrive before 9am since parking near the entrance is limited. Many visitors park in town or near Athena Pronaia and walk the final stretch uphill. Check local road updates before you go, especially after rain, as temporary diversions are sometimes in place.

Frequently asked questions about Delphi day tours from Athens

What can I expect on a Delphi day trip from Athens?

Your Delphi day trip includes a guided visit to the archaeological site and museum, where you’ll see landmarks like the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, and the Charioteer of Delphi. Depending on your ticket, you can also enjoy VR reconstructions, audio-guided storytelling, or free time in the nearby mountain village of Arachova.

How long is the journey from Athens to Delphi?

The drive from Athens to Delphi takes about 2.5 hours each way along a scenic highway by Mount Parnassus. All tours include round-trip transfers in air-conditioned coaches or minibuses, so you can relax and enjoy the views.

Are entry tickets to the Delphi site and museum included in my tour?

Yes, all Delphi day tours from Athens include access to both the archaeological site and the Delphi Archaeological Museum, allowing you to skip ticket lines and head straight inside upon arrival.

Do the tours include a guide or audio commentary?

Most tours are led by licensed guides who share in-depth stories about Delphi’s myths, monuments, and history. Select tours feature multilingual audio guides or immersive VR headsets, perfect for travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace.

Is lunch included in the Delphi day tours?

Some tours include a traditional Greek lunch in Arachova, featuring local dishes like moussaka and grilled meats. Others offer free time, so you can choose a local taverna or enjoy a quick coffee with views of Mount Parnassus.

Are the tours suitable for older travelers or families?

Yes, Delphi day trips are designed to be comfortable for most visitors. The site involves uphill walking and uneven ground, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended, but regular rest stops and an air-conditioned coach make it manageable for all ages.

Do the tours run year-round?

Yes, Delphi tours operate throughout the year. March to May and September to October offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds, summer brings the longest daylight hours, and winter visits are quieter, although the site and museum close earlier.

Can I customize my Delphi day trip itinerary?

Delphi day tours follow well-planned itineraries that cover all major highlights within a day. While routes are fixed, you can choose between guided, audio, or VR-enhanced formats to suit your travel style.

Will there be any free time during the tour?

Yes, most tours include a stop in Arachova, where you’ll have time to shop for handmade textiles, take photos, or enjoy lunch before heading back to Athens.

When should I book my Delphi tour?

It’s best to book your Delphi day tour at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (April to October), as tickets and coach seats often sell out quickly for popular dates.

More reads

Ancient Stadium of Delphi

Ancient Stadium of Delphi

Theater of Delphi

Theater of Delphi

Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia

Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia