The ancient Greeks believed Delphi was the center of the world. Home to the legendary Oracle of Apollo, this mountainside sanctuary was the most sacred site in ancient Greece.
Today, Delphi remains one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the country — and one of the most worthwhile day trips from Athens.
Here’s everything you need to know about Delphi tours from Athens.
Quick Comparison#
| Tour Type | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Group Tour | 10-11 hours | €80-95 | Most travelers |
| Small Group (max 8) | 10-11 hours | €110-130 | Better experience |
| Private Tour | 10-12 hours | €300-450 | Families, VIPs |
| Delphi + Meteora (2 days) | 2 days | €250-350 | Maximum sightseeing |
| DIY by Bus | 10-12 hours | ~€40 | Budget travelers |
Our Top Pick: Small Group Delphi Tour#
Delphi Small Group Tour with Lunch
Experience Delphi with a maximum of 8 travelers. Licensed archaeologist guide, skip-the-line entry, lunch at a traditional Arachova taverna, and stops at scenic viewpoints. The best balance of value and experience.
Is Delphi Worth a Day Trip?#
Yes. Delphi is one of the must-see sites in Greece — arguably second only to the Acropolis in historical significance.
You should visit if:
- You’re interested in ancient Greek history and mythology
- You want to see Greece beyond Athens
- You have at least 4-5 days in the Athens area
- You appreciate dramatic mountain scenery
You might skip it if:
- You only have 2-3 days total in Athens
- You dislike long bus rides (5+ hours total driving)
- Archaeological sites don’t interest you
What You’ll See at Delphi#
The Archaeological Site#
Temple of Apollo Where the Oracle delivered her prophecies. The columns and foundations remain, surrounded by the Sacred Way lined with treasury buildings.
Ancient Theater Seats 5,000 people with panoramic views over the sanctuary and valley below. Remarkably preserved acoustics.
Stadium At the very top — where the Pythian Games (precursor to the Olympics) were held every four years.
Treasury of the Athenians Reconstructed building where Athens stored offerings to the gods.
Delphi Archaeological Museum#
Houses treasures found at the site:
- The Charioteer — One of the finest surviving Greek bronzes
- Sphinx of Naxos — Impressive marble guardian figure
- Omphalos — The “navel of the world” stone
- Friezes and sculptures from the treasuries
Tour Options Explained#
1. Standard Group Tour (Best Value)#
The most popular choice — a full-day tour with 20-45 people.
What’s included:
- Round-trip transport from Athens
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees to site and museum
- Usually a lunch stop in Arachova
- Sometimes brief stops at mountain viewpoints
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Everything organized
- Professional guide
- Hotel pickup available
Cons:
- Larger group (less personal)
- Fixed schedule (limited free time)
- One-size-fits-all experience
Price: €80-95 per person
2. Small Group Tour (Best Experience)#
Same structure as standard tours, but limited to 8-15 people.
What’s different:
- More personal attention from guide
- Ask more questions
- Easier to hear guide
- More comfortable vehicle
Who it’s for:
- Those who value quality over savings
- Travelers who find large groups frustrating
- History enthusiasts who want to learn more
Price: €110-130 per person
Delphi Full-Day Small Group Tour
Maximum 8 guests with an archaeologist guide. Visit the Oracle site, museum, and charming Arachova village. Includes lunch with wine at a traditional taverna.
3. Private Tour (Best for Families)#
A car and guide exclusively for your group.
What’s different:
- Completely flexible schedule
- Stop wherever you want, as long as you want
- Guide focuses only on your group
- Can adjust to children or mobility issues
Who it’s for:
- Families with kids
- Travelers with mobility concerns
- Those who hate group dynamics
- VIP experience seekers
Price: €300-450 for 1-4 people
4. Delphi + Arachova (Extended Visit)#
Some tours include extra time in Arachova, the charming mountain village near Delphi.
What’s Arachova? A picturesque stone village famous for:
- Wool rugs and textiles
- Local honey and wine
- Cozy tavernas with mountain views
- Ski resort nearby (winter)
Worth it? Yes, if you want a taste of mountain Greece beyond archaeology.
5. DIY by Bus (Budget Option)#
It’s possible to visit Delphi independently.
How:
- Take KTEL bus from Athens (Terminal B, Liosion Street)
- Journey time: 2.5-3 hours
- Cost: ~€17 each way
- Buses depart approximately every 2 hours
Pros:
- Cheapest option (~€40 total with entry fees)
- Flexible timing
- Sense of adventure
Cons:
- No guide (you’ll miss context)
- Bus station inconvenient
- Coordinating schedules is tricky
- Less time at the site
Typical Tour Schedule#
Here’s what a standard Delphi day tour looks like:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30-8:30 AM | Hotel pickup / meeting point |
| 8:30-11:00 AM | Drive to Delphi (scenic mountain route) |
| 11:00-1:30 PM | Explore archaeological site and museum |
| 1:30-2:30 PM | Lunch in Arachova village |
| 2:30-3:30 PM | Free time or additional stop |
| 3:30-6:30 PM | Return drive to Athens |
| 6:30-7:00 PM | Drop-off in Athens |
Total time: 10-12 hours door to door
Best Time to Visit Delphi#
By Season#
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr-May) | Perfect | Moderate | Best overall |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Hot | Heavy | Go early morning |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | Great | Moderate | Excellent choice |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Cold, possible snow | Light | Unique atmosphere |
By Time of Day#
Morning tours (leaving Athens at 7-8 AM) arrive around 11 AM when the site is busy but manageable. The drive back avoids Athens rush hour.
What to Bring#
- Comfortable walking shoes — The site involves uphill walking on uneven paths
- Water bottle — Limited water fountains
- Sun protection — Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Layers — Delphi is in the mountains (cooler than Athens)
- Camera — The views are spectacular
- Cash — For lunch, tips, souvenirs in Arachova
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is Delphi worth the trip from Athens?#
Yes — it’s one of Greece’s most impressive archaeological sites. The combination of history, mythology, and dramatic scenery makes it unforgettable.
How long is the drive to Delphi?#
About 2.5-3 hours each way from Athens, depending on traffic and stops.
Do I need a guided tour?#
Technically no, but highly recommended. The site has minimal signage, and the history/mythology is complex. A guide brings it to life.
What’s included in the entrance fee?#
One ticket (€12) covers both the archaeological site and the museum. Tours typically include this.
Is Delphi good for kids?#
Yes, if they’re interested in mythology or can handle the walking. The legends of Apollo and the Oracle engage imaginative kids.
Should I combine Delphi with Meteora?#
If you have 2 days, yes — some tours offer this. Doing both in one day is too rushed.
What should I wear?#
No dress code. Comfortable walking clothes and shoes. Bring layers — it’s cooler than Athens.
The Bottom Line#
For most travelers: Book a small group tour — the extra €20-30 over a standard tour buys a much better experience with fewer people and more personal attention.
On a tight budget: The standard group tour is still excellent value. You’ll see everything and have a professional guide.
Families or special interests: A private tour offers flexibility that group tours can’t match.
Delphi is one of those places that lives up to its reputation. The drive through the Greek countryside, the mountain setting, and the weight of history make it an essential day trip from Athens.
Planning more Athens excursions? Check out our guides to Meteora day trips and all the best day trips from Athens.
