Visit Delphi: the site and its museum

If you’re in Athens, a visit to Delphi is a must. It’s one of those easy and fascinating excursions you can do in just one day. It’s perfectly possible to visit Delphi from Athens in one day, or even better in two days if you have the time.

A visit to Delphi is sure to please everyone. Children will be delighted to climb the archaeological site and discover the stadium track at the top. Then you can discover one of Greece’s 20 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Delphi in a nutshell

It goes without saying that the ancient Greeks had a knack for choosing grandiose sites to worship their gods. The Meteora site, for example, impresses and captivates. The Delphi site is equally impressive.

On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Panhellenic sanctuary of Delphi is dedicated to the God Apollo. At its center, the temple housed the Pythia, Apollo’s oracle who, according to legend, transmitted the words of his God. The sanctuary was crossed by a sacred road, which is still used today. You’ll pass by the Athenian Treasure, a small, well-preserved Doric temple containing trophies of Athenian victories and votive objects dedicated to the sanctuary. But the sanctuary also housed a theater a stadium and a gymnasium, all of which were necessary for Panhellenic celebrations (sporting competitions, but also cultural events such as poetry and song).

Don’t forget to visit the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia. It’s easy to miss, as it’s just below the road, about 500m from the entrance to the site on the way to Arachova. At its center, you won’t want to miss the Tholos, a circular building and a masterpiece of classical architecture.

The Delphi Museum

A museum has been built at the bottom of the site. It’s a must when you visit the site. Firstly, because a huge screen shows a reconstruction of the site as it must have looked in ancient times. This makes it easier to understand and plan ahead.

Secondly, because it brings to light some magnificent pieces found on the site. These include the sphinx, the Kouroi statues, the ornaments on the chryselephantine statues, the superbly preserved bronze sculpture of the chariot driver, and numerous figurines and artefacts.

Practical information for visiting Delphi

Opening hours

The Delphi archaeological site is open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 (summer), and from 8:30 to 15:30 (winter).

The museum is open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 except Tuesdays, when it is open from 10:00 to 17:00.

Closed January 1, March 25, Easter Sunday, May 1, December 25 and 26.

More info on the official website. Please note that timetables often change, so check the official website the day before your visit.

Rates for admission to Delphi + museum

• 12€ full price,
• 6€ reduced rate for European citizens over 65 (upon presentation of proof of age),
• Free of charge for EU citizens under 25 years of age (ID required to verify nationality). Otherwise, the full rate will apply.

Where can I buy tickets for Delphi?

Tickets can be purchased on the spot, but if you prefer to buy in advance, you can purchase your full-price tickets online:

• Entrance ticket to the archaeological site and museum of Delphi with audioguide
• Guided Walking Tour and Admission

A guided tour of Delphi

Private tour of Delphi with on-site English-speaking guide

Only licensed (official) guides are authorized to access the site. Prices vary according to the number of people in the group, including entrance fees.

Excursions from Athens

We’ve spotted but not tested these excursions from Athens, which are well rated and reasonably priced.

• this Delphi Full Day V.R. Audio Guided Tour with transportation, group tour and entrance ticket included.
• or this From Athens: Full-Day Guided Tour to Delphi transportation and admission included.
• as well as this full-day excursion in English includes entrance ticket, transportation and guided group tour.

Final tips for a worry-free visit

How long does it take to visit the site? It takes about 1h30 to visit the site and another 1h to visit the museum.

Physical condition: the site is located in the mountains. Climbing to the very top requires a bit of walking, as the paths are sometimes slippery. There’s little shade, so bring hats, sunscreen and water. On the other hand, the museum is ideal for people with reduced mobility.

Catering: there’s a cafe on site, but it’s better to have lunch in Arachova or Delphi, where you’ll have more choice.

^{Sophie B.}