One of the most spectacular sights in Greece, the ancient town of Delphi is home to the Temple of Apollo and according to the ancient Greeks was the centre of the universe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi is located along the slope of the magnificent Mount Parnassus, offering breathtaking views over the Gulf of Corinth as well as facilities for skiing. In modern Delphi you can find hotels, taverns and restaurants, and the other fascinating historical destinations of Greece are not far from the town.
Archaeological treasures. The area is exceptionally rich in ancient culture, as the predecessor of the Modern Olympics, named the Pythian Games, were once held in Delphi. In the magnificent Delphi Archaeological Museum at the foot of the archaeological site you can admire impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Delphi, such as offerings to the oracle and parts of the buildings.
The modern town of Delphi, located west of the unique archaeological site, has good facilities for visitors. It is here you can find many cosy guesthouses and hotels in Delphi. There are also several traditional taverns and bars in Delphi, which has narrow streets and a central square. What comes to the nightlife in Delphi, there are a few clubs along the main street of the town. There are also some small shops where you can buy souvenirs.
Nearby activities. You can also visit nearby coastal towns, or the towering Parnassus mountain which offers a challenge for mountaineers as well as facilities for skiing in Mount Parnassus in the winter. There are also olive groves nearby where the good local wine is being produced. The diverse nature of Delphi with its mountain slopes, olive groves and breathtaking scenery is great for outdoor activities, such as biking, mountain climbing and hiking in Delphi.
Attractions in Delphi, the ancient navel of the earth and home of the Temple of Apollo
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Greece. Located along the slope of the magnificent Mount Parnassus and overlooking the blue waters of the Gulf of Corinth, the ancient town is the famous site of the Delphic oracle and the Temple of Apollo. The eternal flame once burned in the temple, which was built in the 4th century BC. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo are one of the major attractions in the area. According to the ancient Greeks, the famous Omphalos stone, "the navel of the Earth" was located in Delphi. Other attractions in the fascinating archaeological site include numerous statues and treasuries.Archaeological treasures. The area is exceptionally rich in ancient culture, as the predecessor of the Modern Olympics, named the Pythian Games, were once held in Delphi. In the magnificent Delphi Archaeological Museum at the foot of the archaeological site you can admire impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Delphi, such as offerings to the oracle and parts of the buildings.
The modern town of Delphi, located west of the unique archaeological site, has good facilities for visitors. It is here you can find many cosy guesthouses and hotels in Delphi. There are also several traditional taverns and bars in Delphi, which has narrow streets and a central square. What comes to the nightlife in Delphi, there are a few clubs along the main street of the town. There are also some small shops where you can buy souvenirs.
Nearby activities. You can also visit nearby coastal towns, or the towering Parnassus mountain which offers a challenge for mountaineers as well as facilities for skiing in Mount Parnassus in the winter. There are also olive groves nearby where the good local wine is being produced. The diverse nature of Delphi with its mountain slopes, olive groves and breathtaking scenery is great for outdoor activities, such as biking, mountain climbing and hiking in Delphi.
Practical information for your trip to Delphi
Like the rest of Greece, Delphi has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Photo: inyucho, used under Creative Commons License (By 2.0)
The area has very low humidity. The high mountain areas are cooler with also snow during the winter. The archaeological site is best visited from May to September. If you want to avoid crowds, try to visit Delphi in the morning or in the evening especially in summer, which is the high season.
How to get there. Delphi is located in lower central Greece near the Gulf of Corinth. The distance from Athens is around 180 km. The town has good connections from major cities and towns in Greece, as it is located along the major highway. You can easily travel to Delphi by buses from Athens, the capital of Greece, where also the closest international airport is located. Several travel agencies in Athens organize tours in Delphi which are an easy way to explore this unique archaeological site. Car rental in Delphi is an option if you want to drive to the archaeological site on your own. Car rental is available for example at the Athens International Airport.
Hotels and services in the area are concentrated in Delphi town. In the restaurants in Delphi you can taste delicious Greek specialties, such as grilled meat and enjoy the spectacular views over the sea. There are also some bars, nightclubs and shops in the town. Delphi can be regarded a safe destination for travelers.
hint See also these nearby destinations: Athens, Zakynthos
