Mainland · The spiritual centre of the ancient Greek world
Delphi
Delphi, high on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, was the centre of the earth to the ancients and home of the Oracle no great decision was made without. We design private Delphi visits that pair the UNESCO site and its museum with the tavernas and seaside towns nearby.
Legend states that Zeus once sent two eagles flying from opposite ends of the world and, after circling the globe, Delphi was the point at which they met.
The spiritual centre of the ancient Greek world
Delphi was the sanctuary of the famed Pythia, the high priestess of Apollo, and a focus of pilgrimage: few major political decisions were taken in ancient Greece without first consulting the Oracle. The sprawling complex set high on the slopes of Mount Parnassus includes the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo, where the Oracle prophesied, monuments raised by generations of pilgrims, and the stadium and theatre where the Pythian Games were held. Once considered the centre of the earth, the UNESCO World Heritage site now draws an estimated half a million visitors a year, and it remains one of the most stunning archaeological landscapes anywhere.
Explore Delphi
The ancient theatre
The theatre at Delphi presented its seated audience with a spectacular view over the entire sanctuary and the valley beyond. Built in the 4th century BC from local Parnassus limestone, its 35 rows accommodated around five thousand spectators, who enjoyed plays, poetry readings and musical events during Delphi’s festivals.
The Charioteer
Also known as the Heniokhos, the rein-holder, the Charioteer of Delphi is one of the finest bronze statues to survive from antiquity and probably the most famous exhibit in the Archaeological Museum. It was discovered by French excavators in 1896 within the Sanctuary of Apollo.
The stadium
Delphi hosted one of the four Panhellenic Games, with athletic and non-athletic events held in honour of Apollo: running, chariot racing, horse racing, wrestling, boxing and even musical contests. Greeks from across the Mediterranean and the Black Sea travelled to attend these Pythian Games.
Pairing Delphi
Most trips to Delphi begin from Athens, and the site pairs perfectly with Meteora on a mainland route that trades beaches for oracles, monasteries and mountain light.
Known first-hand
Our best picks at Delphi
- Best Local Specialty Kokoras krasatos
Rooster slowly braised in a rich, fragrant tomato and red wine sauce, found on most taverna menus here. The perfect mountain meal after a morning among the ruins.
- Best Dining To Patriko Mas
Five generations of the same family serving good-for-the-soul Greek cuisine on a lovely terrace with gorgeous views below Mount Parnassus. Try the bekri meze, pair it with a cold beer, and enjoy the setting.
- Best Casual Table Dionysos Souvlaki Gyro Shop
Simple, quick and deliciously tasty: the place in the centre of town to scratch your pitta and souvlaki itch.
- Best Activity Explore Galaxidi
Half an hour away at the mouth of the Gulf of Itea, one of the most beautiful seaside settlements of the region and for centuries a strategic naval town of the Corinthian Gulf. Stone captains' houses and twin harbours make a perfect afternoon escape.
- Best Bar Telescope Cafe
Delphi is literally one street long; in our tour guide days we joked that the driving tour commenced and, thirty seconds later, had finished. Embrace the sleepy vibe with an after-dinner beer here and a chat with Theodore, the lovely owner. For a party, head to nearby Arachova.
- Best Sight The archaeological site of Delphi
Allow at least three hours; the all-day ticket includes the Archaeological Museum and its exhibits of mind-blowing beauty, none more so than the perfectly intact bronze Charioteer. Our top tip: the walk up to the stadium is well worth the effort. Amazing views.
Delphi sits about a two and a half hour drive northwest of Athens on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, beside the mountain town of Arachova.
Design
Design your experience
Tell us the occasion, the season and who is coming. One of our Epicureans will come back with a first sketch of Delphi, and will tell you if another corner of Greece suits your dates better.