Which place is cheaper, Athens or Delphi?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Delphi vs. Athens for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families
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Should you visit Delphi or Athens?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delphi or Athens, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Delphi
Delphi is a world-renowned, historic, and fascinating archeological site. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and museums.
Athens
Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.
Delphi and Athens: Pros and Cons
Delphi
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Impressive beauty
- Less popular for food
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less popular with backpackers
Athens
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Fun shopping
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Big city activities
Is there more to do in Delphi or Athens?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Delphi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Delphi attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Delphi is more touristy than Athens and is known for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis.
The Acropolis
How is Delphi different from Athens?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Athens and Delphi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Delphi or Athens?
Delphi
Athens
You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Athens and Delphi.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Delphi has many famous sights for visitors. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Athens that are not to be missed. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.
Is the Food Better in Delphi or Athens? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.
Delphi offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Nightlife?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.
Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.
People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for its Old Town?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Delphi does not have a historic old town.
The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.
Delphi does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or Athens?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.
Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.
Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Families?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.
You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.
Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Couples?
Delphi
Athens
Delphi and Athens are both nice to visit as a couple.
Delphi is a good archeological site for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.
Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.
A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.
Delphi is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Students?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Delphi is not popular with students.
Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.
Delphi is not popular with students.
Is Delphi or Athens Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Delphi
Athens
Athens is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its public transit.
Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.
Delphi has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.
Is Delphi or Athens a more walkable city?
Delphi
Athens
Delphi and Athens are great when it comes to walkability.
Delphi is a very walkable destination. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.
Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.
Should I spend more time in Athens or Delphi?
How long in Delphi or Athens?
Both Delphi and Athens have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Delphi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Delphi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Athens.
Families should spend more time in Athens than Delphi. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Athens than Delphi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Athens that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Delphi if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Athens.
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How many days in Delphi or Athens? Ideal Length of StayDelphi 1-2Athens 3-7
One day in Delphi or Athens?
Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Delphi. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
A weekend in Delphi or Athens?
Delphi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Athens is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Five days in Delphi or Athens?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delphi. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A week in Delphi or Athens?
Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the world-renowned destination of Delphi. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayDelphi €102Athens €127
The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, while the average daily cost in Athens is €127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Delphi and Athens in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personDelphi €59Athens €63
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomDelphi €118Athens €126
Compare Hotels in Delphi and Athens
Looking for a hotel in Delphi or Athens? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Athens Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Delphi €8.57Athens €27
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Delphi
Also for Delphi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer from Delfi to Igoumenitsa Port: $1,264
- Private Transfer from Delphi/Arachova/Itea/Galaxidi to Athens-Pireaus-ATH : $264
Typical Local Transportation prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:
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Airport Bus for Two€6.40
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Metro€1.50
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Metro€2.00
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Metro from Airport to City Center€8.00
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Taxi from Airport€35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens
Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Elounda: $4,872
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Crete: $4,710
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Heraklion: $4,699
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Chania: $4,277
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Kalambaka: $4,060
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Patmos: $3,616
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Costa Navarino: $3,454
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Santorini: $3,259
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Ios: $2,978
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Hydra to Santorini: $2,978
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Koufonisia: $2,923
- Private Helicopter Transfer from Athens to Folegandros: $2,923
Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or Athens?
Prices for flights to both Athens and Delphi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayDelphi €36Athens €37
Typical Food prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:
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Ice cream€3.00
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Souvlaki€2.20
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens
For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $21
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $23
- Greek Meatballs Private Online Cooking Class: $40
- Guided Greek Cooking Class with Dinner & Wine: $42
- Greek cooking crash course : $45
- Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
- Greek Street Food Tour: $48
- Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $49
- Athens Small-Group Food Tour: $53
- Sights and Food Tour on an Electric Bicycle: $55
- Greek Food Tour for Health and Wellness with a Full Lunch: $56
- Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Delphi €11Athens €36
Tours and Activities in Delphi
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Delphi.
- Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
- Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with AR and 3D in Delphi: $16
- Delphi Archaeological Site and Museum Ticket with AR Audiovisual: $27
- Delphi Day Trip & Free Audio Tour (by Mercedes or Tesla): $639
- Delphi Guided Walking Tour and Admission Ticket: $106
- Delphi Skip-The-Line Private Tour with Licensed Guide & Admission: $209
- Delphi and Hosios Loukas Monastery Private Day Tour: $373
- Delphi's Oracle: E-Ticket to Ancient Echoes and Audio Tour: $15
- Archaeological Site & Museum Entry Ticket & Audio: $16
- Archaeological Site & Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $24
- Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $15
- Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audiovisual: $16
Tours and Activities in Athens
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.
- 2 Day Award Winning Private Tour to Delphi & Meteora from Athens: $872
- 2 Days Peloponnese Tour : Ancient Olympia - Corinth, Mycenae Nafplio Epidaurus: $716
- 5 day Tour in Syros, Mykonos, Santorini, mix of Cycladic-Venetian Architecture: $1,348
- 5-Day Tour of Athens, Delfi, & Meteora: $703
- Acropolis/Athens Highlights Private Evening Tour (5 hours) from Athens, Piraeus: $92
- Apostle Paul's Footsteps in Athens Bibilical Private Tour 4Hours: $116
- Athenian Riviera Private Cruise with Lunch Onboard: $1,949
- Athens Private Day Tour Best place to visit: $271
- DISCOVER ATHENS IN 6HRS Private Tour BEST INTRODUCTION-FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS : $135
- Delphi full day V.R audio guided tour with entry ticket: $48
- EPIDAURUS & NAFPLIO : Private Full Day Tour From Athens 6 Hours : $162
- Essential Athens Highlights Half-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options: $258
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayDelphi €13Athens €23
Sample the Local Flavors in Athens
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:
- Polykala Distillery showroom. A125 years of history along with liqueur tasting.: $15
- Athens Pub Crawling: $17
- Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
- The Original Athens Pub Crawl - Athens Drunk Tour: $20
- Greek Wine Tasting: $23
- Wine Tasting: $34
- Athens Wine Tasting: $35
- 1 Hour Private Four Greek Wine Tasting and Food Pairing in Athens: $35
- Athens Speakeasy & Alternative Bar Crawl: Discover Hidden Gems: $38
- 3-Hour Traditional Greek Food and Wine Tasting in Athens: $41
- Wine Tasting and Nightlife Guided Tour with Cocktail: $42
- Noble Greeks Acropolis Wine Tasting with Private Sommelier: $42
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Delphi and Athens, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Delphi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delphi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delphi and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Delphi.
Which is Bigger, Delphi or Athens?
Athens is bigger, and its population is about 33% larger than the population of Delphi. When comparing the population of Delphi vs. Athens, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit and the activities that interest you.
Related Articles for Delphi
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Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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