One of the most important archaeological destinations in Greece and beyond, Delphi has far more to offer than you might imagine.
Delphi, known as the navel of the Earth in antiquity, is one of those places worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. According to Mythology, this is where the two eagles that Zeus sent from the East and the West met, so as to find the center of the world. Many choose to take a day trip from Athens or a quick visit from Arachova. Delphi, however, deserves an in-depth visit to get to know it better and to experience this mystical sensation.
If you devote at least two to three days, you will have the chance to enjoy the beauty of the place, combined with its historical significance. The local gastronomy will win you over, as will the unique landscapes that will allow you to relax while gazing at mountain and sea. Beyond the most important oracle of ancient Greece, there are a few more stops worth adding to your itinerary.
What to see in Delphi
The archaeological site of Delphi
The first and most important stop of the excursion is the archaeological site of Delphi, one of the most significant in Greece, a religious center and a place of spiritual gathering for the ancient Greeks. You will find it just outside today’s village of Delphi. Here lies the Sanctuary of Apollo with the famed Oracle of Delphi, where the Pythia conveyed Apollo’s prophecies to pilgrims. The Theater stands a little higher, while outside the sanctuary at the highest point you will see the Stadium, where the contests of the time were held.
On the southern side is the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia which includes the Tholos, the temples of Athena Pronaia, and next to it you will see the impressive Gymnasium. Nearby, below the Phaedriades cliffs, the Castalian Fountain emerges, where the water of the Castalian Spring empties, named after a mythical nymph.
The Archaeological Museum of Delphi
The modern Archaeological Museum of Delphi stands next to the archaeological site and features a large collection of masterpieces of ancient Greek art, from the 2nd millennium BC, before the foundation of the Sanctuary, through to late antiquity. There you will learn even more about the history of the sanctuary and the oracle. Among the exhibits are the Sphinx of the Naxians, the bronze Charioteer, the chryselephantine works, the Kouroi of Argos, and the Treasury of the Siphnians.
The Museum of the Delphic Festivals
This is the former house of the Sikelianos family, built in the 1920s and no longer inhabited since 1933 after Eva Palmer-Sikelianos left for America. The museum is located at the entrance of the village and has been operating since 1991. In the courtyard stands the marble bust of the poet Angelos Sikelianos, while in the museum’s rooms you will encounter Eva Sikelianos’ loom and garments in an ancient Greek style that she wove and wore herself. In addition, you will see photographic material from the Delphic Festivals that they organized, with rich artistic events.
What to do in Delphi
The village of Delphi is an ideal spot for your stay, with breathtaking views. Take some time to get to know it, walking along Freiderikis Street with its traditional houses, cafés, and tavernas. There you will enjoy views toward Amfissa and the Gulf of Corinth. The famous Delphic landscape that joins mountain and sea has been included among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
If you love hiking and exploring nature, the area gives you the chance to try different routes. One of the best known is the ancient path that connects Delphi with Krisa, through lush green routes that follow the footsteps of pilgrims of antiquity. A 10-kilometer route is the section of the European trail E4, which via Parnassos links Delphi with Agoriani.
Cultural events are not absent from Delphi, as at theEuropean Cultural Centre of Delphi, a center of learning and creativity, conferences, events, and seminars are organized. At the historic «Pavilion» which was reconstructed and where «π», the World Center for Circular Economy and Culture, was created, artistic and cultural events are also organized.
Nearby excursions
If you have enough time and want to see places near Delphi, you can visit nearby Arachova and the Parnassos Ski Resort. The closest place to Delphi is Chrisso, a traditional settlement with ancient history. Indeed, there is also the Ethnological and Folklore Museum there, with a collection of Greek traditional costumes, engravings, and other objects from the pre-revolutionary, revolutionary, Othonian, and later period, up to almost 1920.
In about a 45-minute drive you will find yourself in picturesque Agoriani. If you prefer a seaside outing, in about 20 minutes you will have descended to the Gulf of Corinth at Itea, while in about the same time you will reach Amfissa. Just 35 kilometers away lies Galaxidi, one of the most picturesque seaside destinations in Central Greece.
What to taste
The region’s gastronomy is based on traditional flavors and pure ingredients. In Delphi you will taste the famed Arachova formaela, grilled meats, as well as traditional pies, trahanas and pasta. Most tavernas in the village of Delphi have balconies with wonderful views of the Delphic landscape. Take a seat at the tables of the taverna Το Πατρικό μας and try traditional Roumeli-style greens pie, Arachova formaela, and grilled meats. The taverna Βάκχος offers everything from wine-braised pork chop to lemon-braised Parnassos lamb with trahanas and local kid goat with greens. At the restaurant Επίκουρος the menu includes tyropitari, grilled Parnassos feta, wild boar stifado, and kleftiko-style kid. At the restaurant Φοίβος you will taste traditional pasta, pizza, as well as meats.
Accommodation in Delphi
Kastalia Boutique Hotel: In the center of Delphi, with wonderful views toward the sea and the valley.
Amalia Hotel Delphi: With comfortable rooms, a large pool, gardens, a restaurant, and a café.
