Family Adventure to the Heart of Ancient Greece: Delphi

Day 1: Arrival in Delphi - A Journey to the Navel of the Earth

After months of planning, our family adventure to Delphi finally began! Leaving the crisp Toronto air behind, we embarked on a journey to immerse ourselves in the heart of ancient Greece. The drive from Athens was breathtaking, with Isabella navigating the winding roads while Sofia gazed out the window, captivated by the olive groves and rolling hills. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building as we approached our destination.

The Artemis Hotel welcomed us with its cozy ambiance and friendly staff. After settling in, our stomachs were already rumbling, so we headed straight to In Delphi Restaurant for breakfast. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air. I enjoyed a hearty omelet while Isabella opted for some yogurt with honey and walnuts, a classic Greek treat. Sofia, of course, went straight for the pastries! The friendly server greeted us warmly, making us feel right at home.


Discover the warmth of Artemis Hotel in the heart of Delphi, offering comfort and convenience with stunning views and great amenities.

With our bellies full, it was time to explore the wonders of Delphi. Our first stop was the Delphi Archaeological Museum. The museum is open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM during the winter season. As a financial analyst, I'm used to dealing with numbers, but walking through those halls, surrounded by artifacts dating back thousands of years, was an entirely different experience. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the Sphinx of Naxos, while Isabella and I were in awe of the bronze Charioteer. The museum is well-organized, with fourteen rooms showcasing statues, architectural elements, and votive offerings. It was an excellent introduction to the history and significance of Delphi. We even stopped by the Delphi Museum Shop where Sofia picked out a replica of a Greek coin, a perfect memento of our first day.


Discover the rich heritage of Greece at the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to ancient artifacts and timeless treasures from the past.

To truly understand a place, you must walk in the footsteps of those who came before you.

Leaving the museum, we made our way to the Temple of Apollo. The air was crisp, and the sky was a brilliant blue. As we stood among the ruins, I tried to imagine what it must have been like in ancient times when the Oracle delivered her prophecies. The Temple, though in ruins, still exuded a sense of power and mystery. Sofia peppered me with questions about the gods and goddesses, and I did my best to answer, drawing on my somewhat rusty knowledge of Greek mythology. The temple ruins date back to the 4th century BC.


Discover the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes, immersing you in the legacy of Greek culture.

After a morning of exploring ancient wonders, we were ready for lunch. Taverna Vakhos, with its inviting atmosphere and traditional Greek cuisine, was the perfect choice. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the valley below. I ordered the lamb with onions, while Isabella savored the stuffed peppers. Sofia, never one to shy away from trying new things, surprised us by devouring a plate of cabbage leaves. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and friendly. It felt like we were dining with family.


Discover Taverna Vakhos in Delphi – where authentic Greek cuisine meets breathtaking views and warm hospitality.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Delphi, we decided to indulge in some shopping. Sofia wanted to get something for her friends back home. We popped into a few local shops, browsing through the intricate handicrafts and souvenirs. Sofia finally settled on some small, hand-painted pottery pieces, perfect for her friends back in Toronto.

For our first dinner in Delphi, we chose Epikouros Restaurant. The restaurant is known for its wide variety of Greek dishes and stunning views of the Gorge of Delphi. We were not disappointed. I had the wild boar stifado, a local specialty, while Isabella opted for the lamb with fresh tomato sauce. Sofia, again surprising us, tried the vegetable fritters and loved them. The atmosphere was romantic, and the service was attentive. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Epikouros Restaurant in Delphi, where culinary tradition meets stunning scenery.

As we walked back to the Artemis Hotel, the stars twinkled above us. The air was cool, a reminder that December in Greece can be quite chilly. We bundled up in our warm clothing, grateful for the layers we had packed. I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Our first day in Delphi had been everything we had hoped for and more. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include visiting the Tholos of Athena Pronaia and the Ancient Stadium of Delphi, I feel a sense of anticipation for the wonders that await us. I'm particularly excited to explore the Ancient Stadium, envisioning the athletes of old competing for glory.

The weather in Delphi in December can be unpredictable, with average high temperatures around 48°F (9°C) and lows around 41°F (4°C). There's also a chance of rain or even snow. So, packing warm clothes and waterproof gear is essential. We were well-prepared, thanks to my meticulous planning and Isabella's practical packing skills.

Back at the hotel, Sofia was already fast asleep, dreaming of ancient gods and goddesses. Isabella and I sat on the balcony, sipping a glass of local wine and reflecting on our day. We talked about the history we had learned, the beauty we had seen, and the memories we had created. It was a reminder of why we love to travel as a family – to experience new cultures, to learn new things, and to create lasting bonds that will stay with us long after we return to Toronto.

As I close my eyes tonight, I can still hear the whispers of the Oracle, feel the warmth of the Greek sun, and taste the delicious flavors of Delphi. It's a journey I know we will never forget.

Tomorrow, we plan to have breakfast at Apollon Cafe before continuing our exploration of Delphi. I've heard they have great coffee and pastries, the perfect way to start another day of adventure. After breakfast, we will visit the Tholos of Athena Pronaia, a unique circular structure that has become an iconic symbol of Delphi. Then, we'll head to the Ancient Stadium, where the Pythian Games were held. I'm looking forward to seeing where athletes competed in ancient times. For lunch, we are planning on trying OMFALOS restaurant. In the evening, we might check out Mr.Rose Cocktail Bar for a relaxing drink.

Our family adventure in Delphi has just begun, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, goodnight from the navel of the Earth!