2 days private tour to Delphi and Ossios Loukas Monastery

Delphi: A fantastic array of sights and activities awaits you

Explore the rich history of Ancient Greece on a 2-day private tour to Delphi and Ossios Lukas Monastery. Delphi was a revered site for the worship of God Apollo by the ancient Greeks, while the Byzantine Monastery of St. Luke played a significant role in the birth of Christianity in Greece.

Duration: 2 days / 1 nights
Destinations: Delphi – Ossios Lukas
Region: Central Greece: Distomo – Delphi
Accommodation: 1 nights in Delphi
Tour Language: English
Age Range: 1 to 99 year olds
Available: All Year Round
Departures: Daily

Itinerary of the two days private tour to Delphi and Ossios Loukas Monastery

Athens, Distome, Ossios Lucas monastery, Arachova, Delphi, Athens | Veiw the tours route on Google maps

The Sanctuary of God Apollo in Delphi
The Monastery of St Luke and its unique architecture
The impressive and welcoming countryside of the Boeotia Plain
An experienced, professional, English speaking driver

The Grand Monastery of Saint Lukas was constructed in the western foothills of Mount Elikonas, below the ancient Acropolis of Stirida, near the village of Stiri in Viotia. It stands as a vital example of Byzantine art, particularly renowned for its mosaic work. Since 1990, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside the Nea Moni Monastery in Chios and Dafni Monastery in Athens. The monastery, dedicated to the miraculous Saint Lukas, includes the Panagia church, the Catholicon, the crypt, the bell tower, living quarters, and other structures. Its artistry has quickly garnered widespread acclaim, setting a standard for Byzantine monuments of the 11th century.

During the 6th century B.C., Delphi served as the focal point of the ancient Greek world, renowned for its sacred oracle of Apollo and the symbolic omphalos, known as the ‘navel of the world’. The sanctuary, set amidst breathtaking surroundings, seamlessly integrated with the natural beauty of its landscape, exuding a profound sense of holiness.

The unique majestic Byzantine monastery of Agios Loukas

Start your exciting journey from the bustling city of Athens to the mesmerizing Delphi.

Taking a scenic route towards the Boeotia plain, the tour will bring you to some well-known towns and villages located just a couple of hours away from Athens. Within two hours and a half, you will reach the Monastery of St. Luke (Ossios Loukas), which is one of the most representative monuments of the artistic greatness of the Byzantine Empire developed in the period of prosperity under the Macedonian dynasty, between 867 and 1059. The monastery is dedicated to St. Loukas the Steiriotis. His family was uprooted from Aegina after the raid of Saracens and Saint Luke was born in ‘castorion’, the current Delphi.

You will reach the town of Arachova soon after, and you will get to know one of the most impressive, but also picturesque mountainous towns in Greece, which becomes the absolute tourist hub in winter, as it is located at the feet of Mt Parnassus. 8km away from Arachova stands Delphi, the sanctuary of God Apollo. In Delphi, you will have the chance to visit a place of unique beauty and historical value. People from all over the known world used to come to Delphi to consult the Oracle, who would give them ambiguous messages all the time to ensure validity under all circumstances. Overnight in Delphi.

Arrival in Delphi

After Arachova, the tour will take you to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary of Apollo. Our private tour includes a visit to the Delphi Museum where you can see among others the archaeological treasures of the ancient oracle, the unique bronze Charioteer, and the sacred way to the Athenian treasury. You will visit the Athenian treasury, the theatre of Delphi and the museum of Delphi, where you can see the Naxian Sphinx, a series of findings from the Sanctuary and Temple of Apollo and of course the highlight of the museum, the Bronze Charioteer called Eniochos, which stands by itself in one of the largest rooms of the museum. You will also visit Athena Pronaia, the Temple, and the Spring of Castalia.

After our visit to the archaeological site and the museum of Delphi, you will visit the Spring of Castalia, and the sanctuary of the Gymnasium and the temple of Athens Pronea. It’s time for lunch. You will enjoy a tasteful lunch in Delphi or Arachova (optional). Overnight.

Arachova; A charming village nestled among the mountains

Rise and shine feeling refreshed, savor a hearty breakfast, then head to Arahova, known as the Mykonos of the winter! Enjoy a leisurely morning. Marvel the architecture and the narrow stone Bild alleys of the village full of nice cafes and restaurants.

Arachova, situated in Greece, is a popular winter destination attracting ski enthusiasts, celebrities, and first-time visitors seeking a relaxing mountain retreat with modern amenities. The modern ski resort, convenient access to Athens, and stunning mountain views are key attractions. Besides skiing, Arachova is known for its vibrant nightlife and is a top choice for Athenians seeking a mountain getaway. Arachova was the site of Georgios Karaiskakis’ victory over the Turkish army in November 1826.

In the afternoon, we will arrive in Athens ending our tour.

Tour Type

Shore Excursion – Private tour
Activity level: Moderate

Included in the tour

Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
Road tolls and all local taxes

Excluded from the tour

Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
Optional Gratuities
Food and beverage
Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver

Cancellation Policy

Read our cancellation policy

Additional info

Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.

Persons with Disabilities

Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.