Home of the ancient Oracle, Delphi, Greece, was known in mythology as the "Navel of the Earth." Today, archaeologists consider it to be one of Greece's greatest cultural treasures. The ruins, located 110 mi/178 km northwest of Athens, require at least a half-day to visit.
Delphi was probably the most sacred site in ancient Greece, and today it's one of the most important tourist destinations for visitors to the region, second only to Athens. Conveniently, Delphi is only a little more than a two-hour drive from Athens, through hilly country and lovely wide cotton fields that skirt the foothills of Mount Parnassus.
Among Delphi's treasures are the Castalia Spring, the theater, the Temple of Apollo (where the Oracle was) and the Arcade of the Athenians (columns in varying degrees of ruin).
Other sites include the Sacred Way, the Treasury of the Athenians and the stadium. You'll also take in a panoramic view of olive groves sweeping toward the Gulf of Itea.
Delphi can be seen easily on a day trip from Athens, but overnighting has its advantages: There are fewer visitors in the evening and morning.
The best time to visit is late fall to early spring. In the winter, nearby Mount Parnassus boasts some of the best skiing in the area, and the small town of Arachova, only a 15-minute drive away, is a playground for the rich and famous.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.