iLoveMonuments
Delphi: What to See at the Sanctuary of Apollo
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-11
Quick answer
At Delphi, walk up the Sacred Way past the treasuries to the Temple of Apollo, where the oracle spoke, then climb to the theatre and the high stadium. Down the road, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia holds the famous round Tholos. Finish in the museum with the bronze Charioteer. The ticket is €20 for the site and museum; allow at least 4 hours.
The route
- Sacred Way: zig-zags up past the treasuries; the rebuilt Athenian Treasury is the best preserved.
- Temple of Apollo: where the Pythia gave the oracle's answers.
- Theatre: 5,000 seats with views over the valley.
- Stadium: a steep climb, but one of the best-preserved ancient stadiums.
- Castalian Spring, where pilgrims washed before consulting the oracle.
- Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia and the Tholos, about 10 minutes' walk below the main site.
The museum
- The bronze Charioteer, one of the finest Greek bronzes to survive.
- The Omphalos, the stone 'navel of the world'.
- The Sphinx of the Naxians and the Siphnian Treasury friezes.
- Visit the museum in the hottest hours and the site early or late.
Getting there
- KTEL buses from Athens (Liosion terminal) take about 2.5–3 hours.
- By car, about 2.5 hours; combine with Arachova, Hosios Loukas monastery or Galaxidi.
- Overnight in Delphi or Arachova to see the site quietly at opening.
FAQ
Is Delphi worth a day trip from Athens?
Yes. The setting on Mount Parnassus is spectacular, but it's a long day; staying a night is even better.
How long do you need at Delphi?
About 4 hours for the site, the Tholos and the museum.
What is the Tholos at Delphi?
A round 4th-century BC building in the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, below the main site. Three of its columns stand, and it's Delphi's most photographed spot.
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Updated 2026-11. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.