Itea

Itea lies on the northern coast of the Gulf of Corinth, surrounded by olive groves on hills and the slopes of Mount Parnassus. This port town connects you to Delphi, where the ancient Oracle of Apollo once drew visitors from across the Mediterranean. Walk along Itea’s pebble beaches, try thick Greek yogurt with local honey, or visit nearby villages with stone houses built into the mountains. The harbor stays active with fishing boats and yachts, and the seaside promenade looks out over the gulf’s calm waters. In September, the town hosts a festival with ship reenactments and traditional dances to mark the Battle of Agali.

Delphi: Ancient Ruins and Museum

Drive 15 minutes from Itea to reach Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered the center of the ancient Greek world. Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, where priests once interpreted prophecies from a chamber below the temple. Walk the stone path past ruins of treasuries built by cities like Athens and Sparta, then climb to the stadium that held races during the Pythian Games. The museum here displays the Charioteer of Delphi, a bronze statue from 478 BCE with detailed muscles and a calm expression. Finish your visit in the modern village of Delphi, where cafes serve strong coffee and grilled meats overlooking the Pleistos Valley.

Swimming and Snorkeling Near Itea

Itea’s Trocadero and Miami beaches both meet Blue Flag standards for clean water and maintained facilities. Trocadero’s smooth pebbles and gradual drop into the gulf make it good for swimming, while Miami’s deeper water attracts snorkelers. Rent a kayak to paddle past rocky outcrops, or join a guided snorkeling trip to see striped sea bream and hidden octopuses. For softer sand, go to Kirra Beach 2 km east, where shallow turquoise water stays warm into October. Stop at seafront shops in Itea for gelato—try flavors like fig or mastiha, made from resin used in Greek desserts.

Food and Markets in the Region

Tavernas along Itea’s harbor serve grilled pork with oregano and slow-roasted lamb skewers cooked over olive wood. Many use Amfissa olives, recognized for their size and salty taste, in salads and dips. Order fried anchovies caught that morning, paired with white wine from vineyards near Mount Parnassus. Visit the weekly market to buy jars of honey made by bees that feed on thyme flowers or olive wood kitchen tools carved nearby. For dessert, drive to Galaxidi’s bakeries to sample revani, a moist semolina cake soaked in lemon syrup.

Festivals and Seasonal Events

Itea’s September festival celebrates the 1827 naval victory over Ottoman forces with mock battles using replica ships, dance performances, and displays of historical photos. In early January, the Celebration of Lights fills the harbor with floating lanterns and a procession where priests bless the water. During August, the Fokida Trade Exhibition turns the marina into a market selling olive oil soap, wool blankets, and other goods from the region.

Hiking, Paragliding, and Winter Sports

Walk through olive groves in the Crisaean Plain on trails linking Itea to Kirra, passing trees older than 500 years. Paragliders launch from hills above town, soaring over the gulf with views of the Peloponnese. Join a beekeeping tour to learn how locals harvest honey from hives surrounded by wild herbs. Cyclists can ride the 12 km uphill route from Itea to Delphi, rewarded with panoramas of the valley. From December to March, drive 45 minutes to Arachova for skiing on Mount Parnassus’s slopes, which cater to beginners and experienced skiers.

Day Trips to Galaxidi and Desfina

Galaxidi, 20 km southwest, has neoclassical houses painted in pastel colors and a maritime museum with model ships from its shipbuilding era. Look for houvolia mosaics made from black and white pebbles on its streets, then swim at Hani Beach’s protected cove. Northeast of Itea, the village of Desfina has the Holy Archangels Monastery, where 11th-century frescoes cover the walls. Closer by, Kirra’s Agios Nikolaos Church incorporates ancient temple stones in its 16th-century structure.

Reaching Itea by Road or Sea

Itea is 180 km from Athens via a 2.5-hour drive through Livadeia and Distomo. Buses leave Athens’ Liossion Station daily, requiring a transfer in Amfissa for a total trip of 3.5 hours. Yachts up to 40 meters can dock at Itea’s marina, which has fuel and repair services. Rent a car to explore nearby beaches or take taxis for short trips to Delphi.

Travel Tips and Essentials

Amfissa Hospital, 13 km north, handles major emergencies, but Itea has a clinic for minor issues. Most hotel staff and tour guides speak English, though locals appreciate greetings like “kaliméra” (good morning). April to June brings mild temperatures for hiking, while September offers warm sea water without summer crowds. Wear shoes with grip for uneven paths at Delphi and carry a refillable bottle—spring water from public fountains in Itea and Delphi is safe to drink.