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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Greece

Air Travel

Athens International Airport ATH

ATH "Eleftherios Venizelos" is Greece's main international gateway. Many major airlines serve it.

Flight Routes

  • Direct flights from major global hubs: New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Dubai.
  • Routes are often seasonal, more frequent in summer.
  • Flight availability remains good in shoulder seasons, prices are reasonable. Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner

Airport Services

ATH is a modern, well-equipped facility with a range of traveler services.

Facilities

  • Extensive shopping and dining options.
  • Currency exchange offices, ATMs, bank branches.
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.

Metro & Rail

Metro Line 3 connects ATH to central Athens (Syntagma, Monastiraki). Suburban Rail links to Athens Central Railway Station.

Express Bus X95

The X95 express bus route runs directly from ATH to Syntagma Square. Operates 24/7.

Taxi & Private Transfer

Taxis readily available with flat rates to Athens city center. Private transfers can be pre-booked.

Travel from Athens to Delphi

Bus Travel KTEL

  • Most common and cost-effective method.
  • Departs from KTEL Fokidas Bus Terminal (Liosion Street) in Athens.
  • Journey takes 2.5-3 hours, costing €16-18 one-way.
  • Buy tickets at the station or online in advance.

Rental Car

  • Pick up a rental car directly at ATH for flexibility. DiscoverCars.com
  • Drive takes 2.5-3 hours.
  • Tolls apply on national highways from Athens. Have Euro coins/bills.
  • Parking can be challenging in Delphi during peak season.

Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Side

In Greece, people drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Highways

Main highways connecting Athens to the Delphi region are generally in good condition, multi-lane, and well-signed.

Local Roads

Roads around Delphi are winding and mountainous. Exercise caution, especially on curves.

Self-Driving & Departures

Self-Driving Requirements

Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are posted (e.g., typically 50 km/h in urban areas).

Documentation

  • Valid national driving license from your home country.
  • For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended.
  • Major credit card for the security deposit.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads connecting Athens to Delphi are good. Local roads are winding and mountainous. Exercise caution.

Driving Tips

  • Highways are well-maintained. Be cautious on local curves.
  • Greek drivers can be assertive. Defensive driving is wise.
  • Winter: prepare for potential ice/snow on higher roads towards Parnassus.

Navigation & Parking

Use GPS for reliable navigation. Download offline maps. Parking is limited in Delphi village.

Guiding Your Drive

  • Google Maps for navigation.
  • Download offline maps for mountain areas.
  • Many hotels parking for guests; search for designated parking near the site.

Train & Sea Travel

There are no direct train connections to Delphi, and sea/river arrivals are not applicable.

Alternatives

  • Nearest major train stations are in Livadeia or Athens.
  • Train travel to Delphi is not a practical option.
  • Delphi is inland; nearest port is Piraeus (Athens).

Important Departure Information

  • No specific exit fees beyond airline ticket inclusions.
  • Purchase bus tickets back to Athens in advance, especially during busy times.
  • Arrive at Delphi bus station 15-20 minutes before departure.
  • For international flights from ATH, arrive 2-3 hours before departure (2 hours for Schengen flights).
  • Allow extra time during peak seasons or with large groups.
  • Athens Airport has shops, restaurants, lounges, and financial services for departing travelers.

Journey Comparisons

Travel to Athens City Center

From Athens International Airport (ATH), various options connect to the city center, notably for bus station transfers.

Options & Times

  • Metro Line 3: ~40 mins, ~€9 one-way.
  • X95 Express Bus: ~60 mins, ~€6 one-way.
  • Taxi: ~€40 day, ~€60 night (flat rates to city center).

Travel from Athens to Delphi

Once in Athens city, connect to the KTEL Fokidas Bus Terminal or collect a rental car for the journey to Delphi.

Options & Times

  • KTEL Bus: ~2.5-3 hours, ~€16-18 one-way.
  • Rental Car: ~2.5-3 hours (offers high flexibility).
  • Private Transfer/Taxi: ~2-2.5 hours, ~€180-250+.

Cost-Effectiveness

KTEL buses are the most budget-friendly choice for reaching Delphi from Athens.

Flexibility

A rental car provides unparalleled freedom for side trips and exploring the wider region.

Convenience

Private transfers offer door-to-door comfort, ideal for travelers preferring direct routes.

Important Notes

Booking Ahead

During peak season (summer) or holidays, booking bus tickets or rental cars well in advance is highly advisable.

Secure Your Spot

  • Bus tickets ensure your seat, especially for specific times.
  • Rental car bookings secure your preferred vehicle type and often result in better rates.
  • Accommodation in Delphi fills quickly during popular periods.

Local Transport Tips

Once in Delphi, the village is compact. Walking is often the most enjoyable and practical way to get around.

On-site Movement

  • Walk from the village to the archaeological site (15-20 min uphill) for scenic views.
  • Taxis are available for shorter rides within the village or to nearby spots.
  • Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for the uneven terrain at the archaeological site.

Additional Considerations

Driving Navigation

Download offline maps before heading into mountainous areas where mobile data coverage might be inconsistent.

Baggage

Pack light for easier bus travel and walking. Consider luggage storage options in Athens if needed.

Cultural Etiquette

Be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting religious sites, where modest dress may be appreciated.

Journey Reminder

Car rental offers the most flexibility for exploring the wider region. Driving on the right is the standard.