How to Get from Athens to Delphi

The town of Delphi is about 100 miles (161 km) from Athens and can be visited as a day trip. The most comfortable way to get from Athens to Delphi is by private transfer, while the cheapest way is by bus. There is no train service from Athens to Delphi, and the town does not have an airport.

Besides the options listed below, private helicopter tours of Delphi are also available. Many of these leave directly from Athens airport.

If you’re interested in Greek history and culture, you can get your fill of both with a 10-day or 14-day tour that includes both Athens and Delphi.

By Private Transfer or Rental Car

Duration: 2.5 hours

Getting from Athens to Delphi takes about 2.5 hours along highway E75. As Delphi is located in the mountains, some roads may be narrow or difficult to drive on. Regardless, a number of major rental car companies exist in Athens. You might want to consider breaking up the drive by stopping in Thiva for lunch. Tzaki is a tasty and convenient option as it's located on the outskirts of Thiva, and you can stop here without having to drive all the way into Thiva. 

You can also book a private transfer, an especially good choice as part of a broader day tour. Other notable sites along the way that can be combined with a visit to Delphi include the Sanctuary of Eleusis and the Archeological Museum of Thebes.

By Bus

Duration: 3 hours

The main intercity bus company in Greece is called KTEL. KTEL buses from Athens to Delphi are infrequent but fairly reliable, running about five-six times daily. Tickets can be purchased online, at the station, or on the bus. If you plan to buy tickets on the bus, you should remember to bring cash with you, and having coins or small notes on hand is advisable. 

The bus from Athens to Delphi leaves from KTEL Bus Station B, Liosion. The station is located in the northern part of Athens, about a ten minute walk from the “Agios Nikolaos” stop on the M1 line (green line) of the Athens metro. There will be a short, 10-minute break at a rest stop during the bus journey, where you will have the opportunity to buy a snack or use the toilet.

Note that buses are often crowded on the Athens-Delphi route during the tourist high season (summer). Be sure to arrive at the bus stop early, especially if planning a day trip. Booking in advance or buying a return ticket at the station does not guarantee you a seat—if the bus you planned on taking fills up before you arrive, you will have to wait for the next one and buy a new ticket.