delos tours greece

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Delos Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Delos. We've got 64 adventures going to Delos, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 24 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the largest number of tour departures.

64 Delos tour packages with 215 reviews

Athens, Mykonos & Syros with 2 Guided Tours -

Syros island was the highlight of our stay. The local guide was awesome, told us so many things about the island and and helped us take pics and enjoy great food. A few more days and it would be even better.

Athens, Mykonos & Syros with 2 Guided Tours - Standard

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Greece

We had a fantastic tour of Greece mainland & a few of the Islands. Dina our Tour leader was absolutely amazing - best Tour leader by far!! Only complaint is the hotel in Kalambaka which is not up to standard - otherwise I can recommend the tour to anyone.

• Island Hopping
• Sightseeing

9 Day Private Tour in Santorini & Mykonos from Athens

Everything went very smoothly and communication with Private Tours of Greece was great.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Greek Island Wanderer

This was my first time using tourradar/explore. Great 1st experience! My best friend and I decided to do a girl's trip and decided it would be much easier to have a guide tell us all about the beautiful country we were visiting along with not having to figure out any major transportation and we were so glad with our choice to join the tour after all. Greece may not be the hardest to get around but when you're going from 1 island to the next and going island hopping it definitely is WAY easier with a guide. Our hotels were mediocre and 1 of them even quite tragic but that's what you get when you're not going luxury I suppose. Our major transportation was covered but every so often we still had to pay a few dollars for bus fees which was silly to me since we already paid so much for the tour. Each day there was a hike or something like that planned and any additional activities needed to be paid for if you wanted to join. We probably spent an additional $30 on transportation and another $250 on activities. Don't think we'll ever get a better guide than our guide Peter. If it wasn't for him I might even call our trip a bit boring. Discovery tours are definitely more slow paced and leisurely. Truly mean to bring you to your destination, give you an idea of what to do, a good amount of hiking in the area and you're on you're own 60% of the time.

Best Islands of Greece Luxury Tour

Stefanos was fantastic, cannot fault at all and a real asset to Ciconai. Overall completely satisfied with the tour and would definitely book again.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands

Greek Island Dreams 40's - 50's and 60's Singles Vacations

Excellent trip all around!

15-Day Tour Combines the Highlights of Ancient Greece, Mykonos & Santorini

Yannis - our driver and guide was outstanding. Full of information and a pleasure to be with. He was always there when needed and provided necessary context to put the amazing places we visited into context. Downside was that some of the hotels were less than expected given the premium pricing and a couple of administrative issues on the second leg of the trip regarding timing, we’re unexpected especially considering the high bar set by Yannis during the pre-island portion of the journey. Overall a very comprehensive introduction to a great country.

Athens, Mykonos, Delos, Santorini & Heraklion(Crete), 11-Day tour

Overall I had a very good experience with Mazi Travel from beginning to end. Mazi’s reprensentative was very prompt to respond. All hotels were well located and clean. Two things that matters to me when I travel. I have also been provided a chauffeur for every transit which was very practical. Except for one time, the chauffeur did not show up and I had to take a cab, all other times they were punctual. The acropolis and Parthenon visit included was good as well as the Delos tour. I would have loved to stay one more night in Santorini instead of Mykonos since there was so much to see in Santorini. An included tour of Santorini would have been appreciated. I had to buy one myself and did’t regret it. I recommend none the less this Trip with Mazi Travel. I travelled alone and had lots of time on my own to do whatever I wanted. I think that kind of tour is well balanced were some things are taken care of(ship transfer, hotel, some inclusions) so you don’t have to worry. TourRadar is also easy to use with lots of options and tour companies I will use this site for my next trip.

Incredible Crete - Santorini - Myconos (small group-Discovery-Culture-food)

Aegean Cruise on a boutique sailing ship. Yoga retreat plus

"Authentic Greece" cruise. Cyclades. On a boutique sailing ship.

• Christmas & New Year

8 Days in Athens, Mykonos & Santorini.

Best of Greece - 10 Days

What people love about delos tours.

Great experience. Higly recommended.

Public transportation wasted lot of time. Going to Thassalonoki was not worth it since you get there in the middle of the day (train from Meteora) and leave next morning in a train to Athens so it was NOT worth the efforts and time. Guide had changed her initial meeting time but did not notify in time, majority of the time her focus was to who you like or is 'cool' or fun to be with, while hiking Caldera in Santorini, she should have made sure the group is together relatively, everyone should be in sight, may be a different pace but all in sight and relatively close by. Not everyone can hike at the same speed, some want to take pictures or take the scenery in and not necessarily rush it.This is strictly for safety reason, there is always a risk in hiking, it was hot also. It is by far better to have a Greek guide in Greece than someone who has transplanted for less than 5 years.

• Greece Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Greece Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Greece Vacation Packages 2024/2025
• 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• Delos Experience
• Itineraries
• SeaBus Service
• Services & Prices

What to see in Delos

History of delos, tours to delos, free admission days, special instructions for visitors, related links.

In 1990, UNESCO inscribed Delos on the World Heritage List, citing it as the " exceptionally extensive and rich " archaeological site which "conveys the image of a great cosmopolitan Mediterranean port".

Delos, Home of the God of light

Last summer we went to visit Delos on our summer trip to Greece. It is incredible. Be prepared to walk a lot... Listen to the guide as they are able to put into words what the statues(now very weathered) can't. WEAR SUNSCREEN as I burnt to a crisp (even with 50+ on) and be prepared to be transferred back into time.... A great trip over all

If you are in Mykonos, it is worthwhile to take a morning trip over to Delos. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Delos was a thriving Greek city until burned by mercenaries in 88BC. Then it was forgotten until modern times. Now approx 10% has been excavated by researchers. If you enjoy learning about and seeing what the ancient world was like, this is a very good example.

Amazing to recreate in your mind the civilization that was on Delos thousands of years ago. There are enough ruins to paint a good picture of life on a busy trading island. The climb to the top of Mt. Kynthos ended with a spectacular view! The museum was small, but offered up the originals of the famous lions. The mosaic floors were the best I saw on our trip to Greece. Generally it was easy to get around and a short ferry ride from Mykonos. I would recommend it for anyone with even a wee bit of interest in history.

Enjoyed the hike, it's one of the few places where you can run away from the tourists herded by the large cruise ships. At the altitude of 112 metres above sea level the hike is neither too steep, not too tiring and there are even steps all along the way, just watch your footing, some of the rocks on the steps are a bit loose. Great view from the mountain top, but very strong wind, hide your caps and sunglasses before you go there :)

This place is beautiful. The ruins are amazing, the amount of preservation is stunning.

Even though it is one of the smallest islands in the Aegean, Delos (just 6.85 km2) was the most famous and sacred of all islands in antiquity, since, according to the legend, it was there that Apollo-Helios, god of daylight, and Artemis-Selene, goddess of night light, were born – it was, in short, the birthplace of Light, which the Greeks always regarded as precious.

  Entrance fee  8 ,00€ pp,  purchase at Delos Site.

Half-Day Guided Tours to Delos, 2024.

Price:  65,00 €. Children 6-12 years old: 30 ,00€. Children under 6 years old for free.

Minimum participation, 8pax.

The price includes:

• The whole trip and guide from Mykonos to Delos
• Entrance to the archaeological site in Delos (Currently , 8,00€ per person)
• Authorized tourist local guide
• Wireless tour guide system
• Skip the line at Delos site

Kindly pay attention on the days of operation per language:

• English : Daily at 10:00 a.m (available from (05/04/24) & 17:00 p.m. (from 01/05/24)
• French : Sunday & Thursday at 10:00 a.m.   (from 09/04/24)
• German : available only as a private tour  
• Italian: on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. ( from 15/05/24)
• Spanish: on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m.  (from 14/05/24)

  *IMPORTANT NOTICE*

 rates are subject to change due to anticipated fuel and admission fee increments..

The site of Delos is explored on foot.

Please wear low heeled comfortable shoes, hat, and suncream.

You may buy cold bottled water from Delos vessels.

The trip lasts 30 minutes.

Delos Sights

Agora of the Kompetaliastae

The Temple of Delians

The Agora of the Italians

Lion Terrace

The Sacred Lake

House of the Comedians

House of Diadoumenos

The Building of the Poseidoniasts of Beirut

Hypostyle Hall

Commercial port

Quarter of the Theatre

House of Dionysos

House of Hermes

House of Masks

House of the Dolphins

District of Inopos

The tank of the Theatre

Temple of Hera

Sanctuary of Hercules

Mt Cynthus, seen from the Sacred Way

The Sanctuary of Promachona

The Monument of the Bulls

The Stoa of Antigonus

Athletic Facilities

The Gymnasium.

House of Trident

Phallus dedicated to god Dionysus

Delos, Nature

The Archaeological Museum in Delos

• Terms of use

Top Tours in Delos, Greece

Delos tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Photography Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Helicopter Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Mykonos:Sail Cruise to Delos&Rhenia islands with BBQ&Drinks

2. Half-Day Delos Tour from Mykonos

3. Mykonos: Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers)

4. All incl. Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia beach up to 12 pax-free trans

5. Delos Tour from Mykonos

6. All Included Mykonos South Beaches, Rhenia and Delos Islands (free transfers)

7. All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation)

8. Full Day Cruise to Delos and Mykonos Islands from Paros

9. Catamaran cruise in Mykonos with Meal, Drinks & Transport

10. Paros Boat Trip to Mykonos and Delos

11. All inclusive cruise-Mykonos Delos&Rhenia beaches(free transport)

12. Ancient Delos Tour

13. Morning and Sunset Cruise with Meal and Transport Included

14. Cruises to Delos-Mykonos, Santorini and Koufonisi by Alexander

15. Mykonos 6hrs sailing cruise: Delos Rhenia with lunch & transfer

16. Cruise to Delos&Rhenia beach free pickup from CruiseShip Terminal

17. Luxury Catamaran Semi private cruise with meals & drinks and transportation.

18. Mykonos: Superior Cruise to Rhenia Island and Delos Guided Tour (free transfers)

19. 5 Day Mykonos & Santorini Trip

20. Delos Day Trip from Mykonos

21. Naxos Boat Trip Tour to Delos and Mykonos

22. The Ultimate 11-Day Island Tour, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini

23. Private Cruise: PAROS – DELOS – RHENIA - MYKONOS

24. Daily Cruise from Paros to Delos Mykonos

25. Explore Authentic Mykonos Full-Day 7 Hours Private Tour

26. DELOS, the island of god Apollo

27. 27 Day Grand Circle Tour of Mainland & Corfu, Mykonos, Santorini

28. All inclusive Private Cruise: Delos &Rhenia island-free transport

29. Private sailing cruise to Delos and Rhenia islands

30. Mykonos Catamaran Cruise with Meal Drinks and Free Transport

What travellers are saying.

• Half-Day Delos Tour from Mykonos
• Mykonos Sail Cruise to Delos&Rhenia, BBQ&Drinks, optional Delos Tour & Transfer
• Mykonos: Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers)
• All incl. Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia beach up to 12 pax-free trans
• All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation)

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING DELOS ISLAND

Delos Island is regarded by many to be the most important of all the Greek Islands. Considered the birthplace of Apollo – the God of sun and light, music and poetry, healing and plagues, knowledge, beauty and agriculture, Delos island has no inhabitants today but still houses incredible ruins and artefacts from a significant ancient civilization. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Delos island, Greece. 

Who was Apollo?

Apollo was believed to be a complex and multi-faceted deity who represented and controlled many important industries, virtues, events, and other things. His name, Apollo, is the only major god who appears with the same name in both Roman and Greek Mythology.

He was adored and worshiped throughout Greece and the Greek empire as the ‘Kouros”, a perfectly developed classical male nude. He was often depicted with a laurel wreath on his head and either a bow and arrow or a lyre and plectrum in his hands.

Apollo was believed to be the son of the mighty god Zeus, the King of all other gods, and the Titan Goddess Leto, one of Zeus’s many lovers. Hera, the wife of Zeus, forbade the pregnant Leto to give birth on solid land and it was only the island of Delos who welcomed her. In fact, it is said she gave birth to twins – Artemis being the sister of Apollo.

Legend has it that Apollo sought revenge for his mother by slaying the dragon Delphi called Python. Delphi and Delos went on to be two of the most sacred sites in Greece. To this day it is a fascinating site to visit and there is something very moving, and many will say, spiritual, about them.

Apollos had numerous love interests, both male and female, and his offspring numbered more than 40. They included Orpheus, Scylla, Hector and Asclepius the God of Beekeeping and Animal Husbandry.

Visiting Delos Island 

There are two ways to visit Delos.

A tour to Delos

There are a number of tours to Delos that leave from Mykonos to Delos island every day. They range from inexpensive group tours on the public ferry to small private tours on private boats. Cruise ships passengers often arrive en masse in the middle of the day so plan your visit wisely.

There are also day trips to Delos that you can do from Paros and Naxos.

Ferry from Mykonos to Delos

Ferries from Mykonos to Delos run every day except for some religious holidays, departing from the old port. The departure times from March to November are usually 9 am, 10 am, 11:30 am and 5 pm, returning at 12 pm, 1:30 pm, 3 pm, and 7:30 pm but this can change especially on very windy days.

Once there you can self tour the site on foot and visit the island and the museum as explained above.

Tickets for the Delos ferry in 2024 are 20 euro return and 12 euro entry paid at the ticket office on Delos when you arrive.

Opening Hours for Delos

Summer: 08:00 – 20:00

Winter 0830 -15:00 

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Visiting Delos, Greece – A Complete Guide

Planning a visit to Greece? Here’s why you need to include visiting Delos to your itinerary to throw in some history with a touch of mythology. 

If your trip to Greece includes plenty of mythological sites, then making a detour to Delos is highly recommended. It’s a stunning island frozen in time, dotted with impressive ruins and plenty of ancient relics.

Now what if I told you that there are no hotels on Delos, and the only way to get there is via a ferry from nearby islands. 

Curious? I thought so.

Well, take my hand, intrepid traveller, and let’s hop to the island of Delos.

Why Visit Delos? 

A fair question. The island of Delos doesn’t get the hype it deserves as most just see it dotting the horizon from a Mykonos beach . Allow me to let you in on a little secret, though.

This tiny island is pure nirvana if you love Greek mythology and history. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s among Greece’s most important archaeological locations.

Beyond that, it’s also a welcome break from the bustling beaches and island life that permeates the Cyclades. 

A Brief History of Ancient Delos 

To the untrained eye, the island of Delos might just seem like a rocky, barren plane without much to write home about. But, allow me to transport you back to Delos in ancient Greece during the 3rd millennium BC. 

There’s a lot of Delos and Greek mythology surrounding the island’s importance, but here’s a quick breakdown. Zeus (yes, that Zeus), the all-father of the Greek pantheon, was quite a promiscuous fella. 

While married to Hera, Zeus frequently (to put it lightly) romanced human women. One of them, Leto, fell pregnant with twins. Fearing for the lives of his unborn children, Zeus enlisted the help of Poseidon to find a secret spot for Leto to give birth. Enter the island of Delos.

In secret, Leto gave birth to twins on Delos. These twins were the god Apollo and his sister Artemis. It was then, more than 3,000 years ago, that Callimachus declared Delos “the most sacred of all islands”. 

Okay, now, back to historical fact. Starting in 900 BC till about 100 AD, the island served as a holy pilgrimage site devoted to Apollo. Thousands made the trip to worship at the many temples and monuments erected here. 

Circa 167 BC, Delos turned into a free port and quickly became a main trading port in the Mediterranean. Throughout the island, a small town quickly developed around the holy shrines and temples. 

Soon, Delos was abuzz with very wealthy merchants, influential bankers, and shipowners. The humble town quickly saw luxurious homes and expertly crafted infrastructure become staples. 

By 90 BC, the island had an estimated 30,000 residents. Detailed architecture, massive temples, and imposing statues and monuments dotted the landscape. Tragedy befell the island in 88 BC when Mithridates, an enemy of Rome, attacked and looted Delos.

A few years after this, in 69 BC, pirates led by Athenodorus, an ally of Mithridates, ransacked the island again. This signalled the beginning of the decline of Delos and eventually led to its abandonment.

Delos: The Sights You Have to See 

So what is there to see on “the most sacred of islands”? Simply put, quite a lot. 

Excavations started in 1873 by archaeologist A. Lebégue. These revealed some stunning sites you have to see on an ancient Delos, Greece tour.

Terrace of Lions

First up is probably one of the most-photographed attractions on the island. The Terrace of the Lions in Delos, Greece, consists of a row of lion statues carved from white marble. 

Surprisingly, they were actually built by people from the neighbouring island of Naxos, and dedicated to the god Apollo.

The Sacred Precinct

Today, the ruins of the Sacred Precinct tell only a tale of the history of Delos, Greece. Inside, you’ll find multiple buildings, including three parallel temples dedicated to Apollo. 

As well as this, you’ll be able to spot the gargantuan Statue of Apollo. Don’t worry, he wasn’t this tall in real life – it’s around four times life-size – and was carved from Naxian marble.

Sacred Lake

This is one spot on most Delos, Greece tours where mythology and history meet. According to myth, this is where Leto gave birth to the godly twin’s Apollo and Artemis. 

Now, before you expect to find a tropical oasis, the lake is long gone, and left in its place is a dry patch of land that is one of the most important mythological sites in Greece.

Mount Kynthos

One of the best things to do in Delos is a hike up Mount Kynthos – this is a Sanctuary sacred to Athena Cynthia and Zeus Cynthius.

This 113-metre trek is a bit steep but easily doable. Push through, I say, as from its summit, you’ll have panoramic views of the entire island.

Temple of Isis

Originally an Egyptian goddess, Isis was later worshipped by the Greeks and Romans. This temple dates back to the 2nd millennium BC and is a massive part of ancient Delos in Greece. 

It remains in pretty good shape, too. You’ll find two huge columns at the front of the temple, and plenty of brickwork still standing around the sides. Note that most tours won’t take you here, but it’s well worth the detour.

House of Dionysus

Dedicated to the god Dionysus – the god of wine and pleasure – this well-restored house within the theatre quarter is a must-visit in Delos island, Greece. Restored mosaics inside are still in excellent condition and make this a popular spot amongst visitors to the Delos ruins.

House of Cleopatra

Although this isn’t a house once owned by the famous queen of Egypt, it is a stunning site to visit. Inside are the ruins of a (headless) statue depicting Cleopatra and her husband, Dioscorides. Pretty creepy, but a very incredible site.

Delos Archaeological Site & Museum

This relatively small museum on the island showcases many artefacts found on the island of Delos, including ancient pottery, jewellery, and ceramics.

The museum is only open from March to November (and it’s currently closed for renovation – check before you go), and your entrance is part of the €12 ($11.95) access fee to the island. So, it would be rude not to check out the museum, right?

Planning Your Visit to Delos 

How to visit delos independently .

The best way to visit the island independently is by catching the ferry from Mykonos, which departs from its old port. Once on the island, you can take a Delos self-guided tour by using the maps available from the ticket office. 

Then it’s as simple as following the red or green route outlined on the map.

How to Visit Delos on a Tour 

If, however, you opt for a guided ancient Delos tour from Mykonos , there are a number of tours daily to Delos from Mykonos. Alternatively, there are day trips from Paros and tours from Naxos .

Delos: Address 

Delos 846 00, Greece

Delos: Opening Times 

The island is only open from April to October, with daily opening times from 10 am until 5 pm.

Where to Stay for a Visit to Delos

• Kivotos Mykonos – This lavish hotel in Mykonos features its own private beach, luxury villas and suites, and stunning outdoor pools. Also on the property are two excellent restaurants, Le Pirate and La Meduse.
• Saint John Hotel Villas & Spa – Located on a massive 20,000 square metres in Mykonos, it features three restaurants and two bars. On its grounds, you’ll also find a spa, tennis court, and infinity pool.

Need More Inspo? Read My Guide to Mykonos Hotels

Delos, Greece: Map 

Delos, Greece: Read Next

• Unmissable Things to do in Greece
• Island Hopping in Greece Guide
• Sailing Greece with G Adventures
• Naxos, Greece Travel Guide
• The Best Hotels in Mykonos, Greece
• Where to Stay in Mykonos: Area by Area

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Visit the island of Delos from Mykonos

Just off the coast of Mykonos, the island of Delos was once one of the world’s most important cities.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: December 13, 2023

Visiting Delos from Mykonos

The archaeological site of Delos is one of the most significant ancient landmarks in the Aegean Sea, and it's well worth a visit.

There's lots to see and lots to learn, so here are some of my tips for planning a visit to the island of Delos.

• A brief look at the history of Delos
• The best things to see at Delos
• How to visit Delos - plus some good Delos tours

Before Mykonos was a popular tourist island, another one just off its coast was where the rich and famous would come. They bought houses, shopped in the markets, cavorted with people from across the world.

But all of this was more than 2,000 years ago.

“Like Mykonos, Delos was the island for VIPs,” says my guide as she starts to show me around.

“It was the island of acceptance,” she explains. “Everyone was welcome – as long as they were wealthy!”

A tour to Delos is one of the most popular things to do from Mykonos these days because, of all the 2,000 Greek islands, it’s one of the most significant historically. During the time of Ancient Greece, it was the commercial and navigational centre of the Aegean Sea.

Just try to imagine all the successful merchants who came here and constructed mansions, attracting the region’s best builders and artisans. And around the port where they would’ve all arrived, luxury shops and boutiques selling perfumes and gems.

That was two millennia ago and, of course, much has changed. What you find in Delos today is not a vibrant bustling city, but a large and fascinating archaeological site stretching out from the water’s edge.

It’s a large site because the ancient city was once home to up to 30,000 people. Although none of the monumental buildings are in their original form, a lot has been excavated and it takes a few hours to walk through the highlights on a guided tour of Delos.

Is Delos worth visiting?

For visitors to Mykonos, it’s certainly worth visiting Delos. Not only does it offer something different to the beaches and the clubs of the larger island, it’s a remarkably easy half-day trip to see one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Aegean Sea. (Delos is also a World Heritage Site.)

What is Delos famous for?

Delos is famous as one of the most important cities in the Aegean Sea two millennia ago. It was a powerful commercial centre that controlled much of the economy of Ancient Greece. Delos is also said to be the island where the gods Apollo and Artemis were born, and the city built here had an important religious and mythological role in the empire.

Are there tours to Delos?

Yes, there are tours to Delos and I think it’s definitely worth taking one. Although it’s relatively easy to visit Delos independently, you’ll definitely benefit from a guide’s explanation of the site. I would recommend this Delos tour from Mykonos , or I have some more information later in the article.

It may just be a short journey by boat from Mykonos to Delos, but it’s a journey that takes you back 2,000 years, into a fascinating part of the history of Ancient Greece, and to one of Greece’s World Heritage Sites .

It’s a story that can sometimes get a bit lost on the Aegean islands, with its focus on modern tourism, so this is an excellent way to dive straight into it.

History of Delos

Delos did not start as a luxurious haven for the rich and famous. In fact, it had existed for centuries already, and this earlier period is, in many ways, much more important.

There’s evidence that people have lived on the island since the 3rd millennium BC (up to 5000 years ago!), but it was Ionian settlers who really transformed Delos when they arrived around 1000 BC.

They brought with them the cult of Leto, a female Titan who, in Greek mythology, had been impregnated by Zeus. To escape Zeus and his furious wife, Hera, Leto looked for somewhere to hide – and she found the island of Delos.

So, it was here that mythology says she gave birth to her twins: Apollo, the god of music, and Artemis, the goddess of wild animals.

Apollo, in particular, became the focus for Delos. He was one of the most important gods of Ancient Greece and, with Delos said to be his birthplace, an enormous sanctuary was built here for him.

The Sanctuary of Apollo is believed to have been founded in about the 9th century BC and it attracted worshippers from across the region and beyond.

With all these pilgrims coming to Delos, you can understand why commerce also grew on the island and it continued to be an important trading port in the region.

But, with such a strong economic and religious position, Delos also became a target for people with political power. The most consequential example is when the island fell under the control of the Athenians.

They undertook a series of ‘purifications’ to make the site more holy, by digging up all graves and moving dead bodies to another island, and then later forbidding anyone from being born or dying on Delos!

Throughout the first millennium BC, there were constant political and religious shifts at Delos.

The Athenians deported all the locals from Delos in 422 BC, for instance. Then the island became independent again in 314 BC. Then the Romans took it over in 166 BC and made it a free port. And so on…

It would take a whole article to cover the details of the history of Delos. But the important thing is to know that just as the worship of Apollo was a defining factor in the growth of the island, so was the money and power that it brought.

Towards the end of the first millennium BC, Delos had become the most important trading centre in Greece. But then it all came crashing down.

Delos was attacked and sacked in 69 BC by the pirates of Athenodoros. Then the trading routes changed and the island was no longer convenient.

It was quickly abandoned by those who were here for just the money and power. Only a few people remained to look after the temples to Apollo… but even the guardians eventually left as the Roman era took hold.

In the years afterwards, there’s evidence that people came and went, and Delos was inhabited by different people over different periods.

But it was eventually completely abandoned in the 6th century AD. Captured by the Byzantines, then the Slavs, then the Venetians, then the Ottomans, these successive occupiers took the stones that had once formed majestic temples and opulent houses.

It wasn’t until archaeological work started here in 1872, that the site began to regain some of its dignity, and the treasures of Delos were again unearthed.

Things to see at Delos

The island of Delos is actually pretty small – a maximum of only about five kilometres long and 1.3 kilometres wide, with an area of 3.4 square kilometres (exactly the same size as New York’s Central Park).

Most of the island is barren, though. The archaeological site is in the northwest of Delos and the main attractions are concentrated in this area, where the centre of the city would’ve been.

There are lots of things to see at Delos. You’ll discover most of them if you wander in the same direction as everyone else, but these are the main Delos sights to look out for (in the order you’ll likely come to them).

Agora of the Competaliasts

There are a few different market areas in the city and I’m mentioning this one because it’s the first you’ll come to, located right on the water where the boat from Mykonos to Delos arrives.

Around the edges of the agora (market) are the remains of shops that would’ve ben based here, while holes in the stones on the ground show where tents would’ve been erected for temporary stalls.

There are also the remains of monuments that were dedicated to the god Hermes.

Sanctuary of Apollo

From the Agora of the Competaliasts, you’ll walk down a paved road called the Sacred Way until you reach the Propylaea, which was once part of the Temple of Apollo.

The area beyond this is known as the Sanctuary of Apollo, and it’s where you’ll find the remains of many of the temples on Delos that were built by different people over the centuries.

The Oikos of the Naxians would once have had a nine-metre-high statue of Apollo in it.

Next to it, the Temple of the Delians was the biggest of the temples here, construction starting in 476 BC.

Next, you’ll see Poros Temple, the smallest and oldest of the Apollo temples, built in the 6th century BC.

And, on the other side of the path, is the Temple of Artemis, dedicated to the twin sister of Apollo who was also said to have been born here.

Terrace of the Lions

Beyond the sanctuary, past the Agora of the Italians, is one of the most important sights in Delos – the Terrace of the Lions.

These marble statues of squatting lions lined one side of the avenue, looking out towards the Sacred Lake. Added by the people of Naxos around 600 BC, the lions were supposed to protect the sanctuary.

There were originally between 9 to 12 of the lions here (nobody knows for sure), but now there are only four complete ones left. The ones in position on the avenue are replicas, with the originals in the Delos Archaeological Museum for protection.

Sacred Lake

Across from the Terrace of the Lions, the Sacred Lake is not much to look at these days, but it’s one of the most significant parts of the Archaeological Site of Delos.

It’s here that Leto is said to have given birth to Apollo and Artemis, and was an important part of the worship that took place on the island.

The lake was drained in 1925 to stop the breeding of mosquitos that were carrying malaria.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum at Delos is well worth a stop and is included in the price of the entrance ticket. While it’s not particularly large, it displays some of the important artefacts that have been found at the site.

There are frescoes and mosaics, along with busts and other sculptures. But the highlight is the marble statues of the lions that once lined the Terrace of the Lions.

The museum is closed until further notice for renovation work.

House of Dionysus

From the museum, a good path to follow is back to the port and then south, into a neighbourhood full of grand houses (well, the remains of them, at least).

You can walk into some of them, and just peer into others. If they’re open, definitely have a look at the House of Cleopatra and the House of the Trident .

The most impressive residence to visit is the House of Dionysos, with a central courtyard containing marble columns and a large mosaic on the floor. An intricate artwork, it shows Dionysus, the god of wine, riding on a tiger.

Ancient Theatre of Delos

Because of the religious and economic importance of Delos, the city’s theatre can feel a bit neglected – by both tourists and authorities – and it looks a bit rundown unfortunately.

It was built in the 3rd century BC and had room for about 5000 spectators. It’s not nearly as imposing as the Epidaurus Theatre , for example, but it still gives you a sense of the wealth of the settlement here.

Mount Kynthos

Along with all the structures within the archaeological site (and there are many more than I have mentioned), there’s one natural landmark worth noting – Mount Kynthos.

It’s only about 120 metres high so you can walk to the top for a spectacular view across the layout of Delos and the surrounding water. There were probably some buildings on the top during Antiquity, but they’re gone now.

One thing you can see on the way up is the Temple of Isis , which is quite prominent because it’s facade is relatively intact with columns and a pediment.

How to visit Delos

Delos is less than three kilometres off the coast of Mykonos and the only way to reach it is by boat. Thankfully it’s a popular destination so it’s easy to get there and there are a few ways to do it.

It’s possible to visit Delos independently – or you can do it as a tour. I’ll run through both options now, but my recommendation is to do a tour. The site needs a lot of interpretation from a guide and this Delos tour , for example, doesn’t cost that much more than paying for transport and entry fees yourself.

Another bit of important advice – make sure you bring lots of water and sun protection! You’ll be out in the fierce sun for hours, and there are only very limited opportunities to buy drinks.

Visiting Delos independently

There are a few steps for visiting Delos from Mykonos. The first is to get to the Old Port of Mykonos, from where the boats to the island leave.

There are several boat companies that do trips to the island, and you may see advertisements around town for them. If you’re unsure which to choose I would recommend going with the main operator (which also has the biggest boats) called Delos Tours , which leaves from the southwestern point of the Old Port, near the Town Hall.

Check online for current boat departure times, but it’s usually at 10:00 and 11:30… with return departures at 13:30 and 15:00. To guarantee a spot and avoid the queue (it gets pretty busy in summer) you can buy your ticket here in advance .

The boat trip to Delos takes about 30 mins. Once you arrive, you’ll need to buy a ticket to enter the archaeological site, which costs €12 regular and €6 concession. The queue at the ticket office gets long when the boat arrives, with a wait of up to 15 minutes or more, so I suggest trying to get off the boat before as many people as possible.

You will then have about three hours to explore the site before the return boat leaves, taking you back to where it departed from.

Where is Delos?

The island of Delos is just 2.5 kilometres off the coast of Mykonos, and less than a kilometre from the island of Rhenia, in the centre of Greece’s Aegean Sea. The archaeological site of Delos is in the northwestern part of the island.

How do you get to Delos?

Most people will get to Delos from Mykonos, and it’s about 10 kilometres to get from port to port. Private boats can’t land at Delos so you need to go with a local operator. There are lots of tours to Delos that include transport. If you just want the boat transfer, I would recommend booking in advance here .

When is Delos open?

In summer, Delos is open from 08:00 – 20:00. In winter, the site is open from 08:30 – 15:00. Remember, though, your visiting hours will probably be determined by the boat schedule.

How much does it cost to visit Delos?

Entry to Delos costs €12 for a regular ticket and €6 for concession. The cost of the boat transfer is extra. (Depending on which operator you choose, it’ll be around €20-25 for a return trip.)

Yes, there are lots of tours to Delos and I think it’s a really good way to see the site. It doesn’t cost too much more, because the price includes the boat and entry – and it’ll really help you interpret the ruins. I’ve got details on a few options below, but the standard one that many people take is this Delos tour from Mykonos , which includes transport and a guide.

Often there are local guides waiting at the entrance, offering to take you on tours of the site. Generally, you’ll need to negotiate a price with them.

This can be a good option if you want a private tour on your own terms, but it usually doesn’t end up being much cheaper than going with an organised tour from Mykonos (unless you’re in a large group already).

Tours to Delos

I don’t always think tours are necessary when travelling, but this is one of those situations where I really would recommend having a guide.

Not only does a guided tour to Delos make the logistics much easier, but the guide’s commentary will really add to your visit. All the buildings are in ruins and it makes a big difference to have someone explaining it all.

The best value tour, which has everything you need, is this half-day guided tour . It includes the return boat ride, skip-the-line entrance ticket, and guide.

Or there are a few other similar options here:

Another fun way to visit Delos by tour is to do a boat cruise that also goes to nearby Rhenia island, perhaps includes some swimming and lunch.

Let’s be honest, the archaeological ruins at Delos are really interesting, but if you can combine it with a dip in the ocean and a trip on a sailboat, it makes for a much more enjoyable day out!

I would recommend this sailing trip to Delos and Rhenia , or there are some other options here:

It’s interesting to travel from Mykonos to Delos, because in just a short boat journey you will go from one of the most luxurious Greek islands today, to one of the most luxurious Greek islands of the Ancient World.

Are the parallels between the two? In some ways, yes. Of course they look very different now, though. But it does make you wonder what the vibrant tourism centres of Mykonos may look like in 2000 years time!

This site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List ! I'm on a mission to visit as many World Heritage Sites as I can. Only about 800 more to go... eek!

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1 thought on “Visit the island of Delos from Mykonos”

Greece is amazing! We did not go to Delos though…but saw Mikonos, Santorin and Rhodes. Expensive, but beautiful. I hope I may share our story here? https://www.twoguysabroad.com/greece/ Thanks 😉 Donovan

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The Cyclades fulfil their collective name (kyklos means circle) by encircling the sacred island of Delos. The mythical birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis, splendid Ancient Delos was a shrine turned sacred treasury and commercial centre. This Unesco World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Cast your imagination wide to transform this sprawling ruin into the magnificent city it once was.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Delos. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Ancient Delos

Delos has a special place in Greek mythology. When Leto was pregnant with twins Apollo and Artemis, she was relentlessly pursued by a vengeful Hera – the…

Archaeological Museum

A vast haul of artefacts has been protected from the elements and displayed in this must-see museum, including the originals of many of the frescoes,…

Terrace of the Lions

The most-photographed part of the Delos site is this terrace facing the Sacred Lake, lined with stone lions (these are replicas, the originals are in the…

Mt Kynthos (113m), southeast of the harbour, is a steep but rewarding climb. There are monuments such as the Temple of Hera and the Sanctuaries of Zeus…

Built between 296 and 240 BC, this partially restored marble theatre could once seat 6500 spectators in its 40 rows. The large cistern in front of it…

Sacred Lake

According to the legend, it was here that Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis, making it one of the most sacred sites of the ancient world. This didn't…

Adjoining the sanctuary of Apollo was a smaller compound forming the sanctuary of his twin sister, Artemis. Three remaining columns mark the location of…

Poros Temple

The smallest and oldest of the three adjacent temples to Apollo at the heart of his sanctuary, this one dates from the 6th-century BC and was named for…

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Visiting Delos from Mykonos

Greece › Mykonos › Delos Tours Updated: September 26, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Best Hotels in Mykonos • Best Family Hotels in Mykonos • Where to Stay in Mykonos • Best Things To Do in Mykonos • Mykonos Travel Guide

The Stone Lions of Delos. A guided tour to Delos is one of the highlights of a Mykonos visit.

The 3 Best Delos Tours from Mykonos for 2023 Guided Boat Tour to Delos Excellent tour of Delos with professional guide. The tour leaves from the Old Port in Mykonos Town but if you’re staying outside of Mykonos Town or at one of the beaches then select with Hotel Transfer as it makes the day much easier. There’s also a semi-private tour for groups of 2 to 10 – select Private Group Guided Tour for this option. Boat Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island This is a great tour for those who would like to see Delos, but don’t want to spend hours there. It takes you to beautiful Rhenia island for swimming, snorkeling, and a bbq lunch (onboard). Then to Delos for a short, guided tour when the island is usually much quieter than in the morning. Highly recommended. Guided Delos Tour from Cruise Ship Port If you’re on a cruise and have a limited amount of time, this Delos tour offers pickup and dropoff at the cruise ship port in Mykonos. Delos, Greece In ancient times, Delos was the most important island in the southern Aegean. The Cyclades island group actually gets its name from the fact that the islands form a circle around Delos. Mykonos, by comparison, was considered poor with limited agricultural prospects. A holy island, Delos is the mythical birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, and women were once forbidden from giving birth there; instead, women were ferried to Mykonos for the labor and delivery of their children.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site on the small island of Delos is one of the best-preserved and most important archaeological sites in Greece. First settled by the Greeks around 3000 BC, the island became a shrine to Apollo around 800 BC and a thriving, multicultural center of trade in the centuries that followed, with Syrians and Egyptians adding shrines of their homeland gods to the existing Greek ones. Under the Romans, Delos became a duty-free port and important slave market, but the island’s importance diminished as trade routes shifted and by 300 AD the island was languishing in obscurity, used as a hideout by pirates. Delos is accessible by boat from Mykonos. Use your imagination to transform these extensive, well-preserved ruins into the gleaming city that once stood here. As you make your way around the ruins from the Sacred Harbor, where the tour boats dock, sights not to miss include the Sanctuary of Apollo, lined with the remains of three temples dedicated to the god, the Artemision – a sanctuary of Artemis, Apollo’s twin sister, and the Terrace of Lions, lined with the much-photographed replica lion statues. (The actual lions can be found within the site’s small but interesting museum, located near the center of the island.) Nearby is the overgrown Sacred Lake where Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis after hiding from the wrath of Hera, Zeus’ wife, Zeus being the twins’ father. In the Theater Quarter, formerly home to Delos’ wealthiest inhabitants, spot the mosaic depicting the wine god Dionysos riding a panther at the House of Dionysos, and another superb mosaic featuring lions, dolphins and griffins at the House of Dolphins. If you have time, it’s well worth climbing Mt Mynthos for great views of the surrounding islands and to visit the Sanctuaries of Zeus and Athena.

The boat pier on Delos where tours dock and depart from.

Visiting Delos from Mykonos There are generally four boats daily from Mykonos Town (Chora) to Delos during high season, with departures from 9am to 5pm. Return boats run between 12.15pm and 8pm. There are fewer boats from November to March. The boat trip between Mykonos and Delos takes about 30-40 minutes, and you can buy tickets from the kiosk at the southern end of Mykonos Town harbor. When purchasing tickets, find out which return boats they’re valid for. Boat tickets are 20€ round trip, and do not include the entrance fee to Delos Island, which is 12€, paid at the site entrance. Delos Island boat schedule, pricing information, and online booking Visitors to Delos are given a map outlining three self-guided walking tours. Depending on which one you opt for, these take from 90 minutes to five hours, so it’s best to decide in advance how much time you’d like to spend on the island. You can purchase detailed Delos guidebooks both at the Delos ticket office and in bookstores on Mykonos. Guided tours can be booked at the same time as the boat tickets (adult/child 55/30€ including boat, entrance fee, and guide). Wear a hat, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. The only place to eat is a basic café at the Delos museum; it’s worth bringing a picnic lunch and plenty of drinking water. A guided tour of Delos is recommended. Without a guide it’s just a collection of ruins without much meaning or context. With a guide it’s a very interesting introduction to Greek history. Delos from Mykonos

Tickets for Delos Island can be purchased in advance online or at the ticket booth in the Mykonos Town Old Port.

Boats to Delos are small and fill quickly. In the busy summer season it’s a good idea to buy tickets first thing in the morning or in advance.

The boat trip to Delos from Mykonos takes 30-45 minutes. There is ample seating and drinks and snacks are sold onboard.

View of Delos Island when arriving by boat.

This map shows how vast and well-developed the island’s infrastructure was in ancient times.

After arriving on Delos and paying admission, you are free to explore across the entire island.

There are ruins everywhere on Delos, and few signs; it can be difficult to know exactly what you’re looking at. Taking a guided tour is recommended.

Even without a tour, it is fun and interesting to imagine the homes and buildings as they existed long ago.

Keeping watch over the island’s ruins, the famous stone lions seen here are only replicas.

The original statues are displayed and kept safe inside the island’s small museum.

In addition to the stone lions, the Delos Museum also houses original mosaics from the island…

…as well as ancient frescoes…

and artifacts from the island’s original excavation. There is no additional charge to visit the museum.

Even at its busiest, there’s plenty of room on Delos, and on the more remote parts of the island it can feel like you’ve got the whole place to yourself.

In the springtime, Delos is abloom with wildflowers. These photos were taken in the month of April.

(Yes, those statues are exactly what they appear to be. In Ancient Greece, phalluses symbolized fertility and were thought to protect against evil spirits.)

It’s important to keep track of the time, so you don’t miss the boat back to Mykonos. We don’t know what happens if you’re left behind on the island, and we don’t recommend finding out.

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About Santorini Dave

We are going to be in Mykonos the first week of October and will have a rental car to get us to the port. Should we book the tour ahead of time or just head over to the port when we get there to book a tour?

Personally, I would book in advance but could you show up without a reservation? Sure, and you’d likely be fine.

Is the Old Port walking distance from Mykonos Town? We’re staying at the Belvedere. Thanks!

Yes, the Old Port is an easy walk from all Mykonos Town hotels. From the Belvedere it’s about a 10 or 12 minute walk (assuming you don’t have luggage).

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Everything You Need to Know to Visit Delos Island in 2023

The small island of Delos has one of the most important archaeology sites in Greece. The only way to visit the site is to get a day return ferry from a nearby island (Mykonos, Paros or Naxos) . There is no accommodation on the island . As an archaeologist who has visited the island a number of times, I set out all the information and tips you need to make your visit to this extraordinary archaeological site a memorable one , whether you are passionate about Greek history or just an incidental visitor. I strongly recommend you buy a ferry ticket in advance, particularly for the busier months .

Please Note: Delos is closed until the end of March 2024.

Thomas Dowson

• Last Checked and/or Updated 11 March 2024
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• Greece , Greece Travel Tips , Travel Tips

Delos Transfers & Guided Tours

Ferry transfer to delos.

• Roundtrip ferry to Delos
• Doesn’t include site entry €12
• No guide to the site

More information, and/or book online , or select your visit date and other options on the calendar below.

Ferry Transfer & Audio Guide

• Smartphone audio guide

Transfer & Guided Tour of Delos

• Skip-the-line entry
• Guide tour of the site

I first visited Delos towards the end of summer in 1990. This was during my island hopping adventure that took me from Crete to Athens. The ferry ride to the island was as unforgettable as the archaeological site. The crossing was not smooth and I have been saved by advice I overheard on that day that I have I applied many times since: keep your eyes focused on the horizon. On my most recent visit, the beginning of summer in 2018, thankfully there was no need for this advice. While the archaeological site and its setting is every bit as spectacular as I remember it, getting to Delos however is now quite a different experience.

Back in 1990 the boats were smaller and they ferried fewer visitors to the island. Now there are fewer crossings for tourists to choose from. And the ferries are substantially bigger, carrying around 200 or so people. While the experience of getting to Delos island has changed dramatically, I am not going to go all misty-eyed and harp on about how it was all so much better before. On the contrary. Despite having had to queue for 20 minutes to pay my entrance fee and even with so many more people on the island, I enjoyed this visit as much as I did my first. Delos is, and always will be, on my list of Top Ten places to visit in Greece.

In fact as I write this the day after my visit, I am seriously thinking about going again today. There are, however, a few things I would do differently. Certainly in terms of getting to the island. What follows then are my tips for making your visit an enjoyable and rewarding one – what I will do differently if indeed I return.

What is There to See on Delos?

Note: the Delos Archaeological Museum is currently closed for renovation.

The archaeological site on the island of Delos is the remains of a sanctuary to the gods Apollo and Artemis, and the city that developed around it. The on-site museum has one of the finest collections of ancient Greek sculpture, as well as displays exhibiting numerous artefacts recovered from excavations around the island. These artefacts give an insight into the daily life of the ancient inhabitants of the island.

Did You Know? A Few Key Facts About Delos

For an island that is no more than 5 kilometres long and around 1,300 wide the estimated population for 90 BC is 30,000. The population survey carried out by the Greek government in 2001 records 14 inhabitants on the island.

Although the island was largely a religious centre, it also had a thriving commercial port. An estimated 750,000 tons of merchandise passed through the port each year during the first century BC.

Excavations of the archaeological site started in 1872 by the Greek Archaeological Service and in 1873 by the École française d’Athènes. Archaeologists are still excavating today, although much of the work focuses on securing the site for the increasing volumes of tourists. Read more about the history of archaeological research on the island on the website of the French school in Athens.

As the island has been uninhabited since the 7th century BC, the integrity of the archaeological site remains largely intact. And restoration work on the buildings has not challenged the site’s authenticity, as has been the case elsewhere. For these reasons, as well as the historical and archaeological significance of the place in antiquity, Delos was placed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1990.

How to get to Delos

You can only get to Delos on a day trip by ferry from another island. Most commonly the point of departure is Mykonos, but there are also day trips to Delos from the islands of Naxos and Paros. There are no hotels or other accommodation providers on the island, the only inhabitants are the caretakers and archaeologists. There is no airport on the island.

Private yacht to Delos

If you have your own yacht, you can get yourself to Delos. Sail to the island, and simply pay at the ticket office to tour the site and museum. If like me you do not have your own yacht, for what seems to me a very reasonable price you can take one of a number of private cruises to the island – and even visit nearby Rhenia Island too.

Naxos to Delos

At 8.45 am the ferry leaves the port in Naxos town and sets sail for Delos. You will have three hours to explore the island before heading to Mykonos where you have three hours to explore the old town of Mykonos. I can recommend visiting the Mykonos Archaeology Museum. This ticket only covers your ferry to Delos and Mykonos and return to Naxos. It does not include a guide, or the entry to the archaeological site and museum on Delos. Click here for more details, and to buy a refundable, return ticket from Naxos to Delos .

Paros to Delos

Getting to delos from mykonos.

By far the most popular and easiest way to get to Delos, is from Mykonos. Whether you want to stay on the island only to visit Delos, or to stay a bit longer, Mykonos is a wonderful island to visit.

Ferries run regularly from Mykonos to Delos from 1 April to 31 October 2023.  See the Mykonos-Delos ferry timetable below.

A much reduced service is offered for the month of December. These dates have not been posted.

The ferry to Delos from Mykonos leaves from Mykonos Old Port. 

Buying tickets for the Mykonos - Delos ferry

You can purchase a ticket at the booth next to the ferries in the Old Harbour. Given the restrictions, however, and that Delos is the most popular attraction – it is obviously advisable to book in advance.

There is a ticket booth next to the pier where the Delos ferry births. Here you can buy return tickets for €22 (this does not include entry to the site). Or, for a booking fee of €4, you can buy a ticket online, in advance. You have the added benefit of the ticket being fully refundable should you need to cancel (up to 24 hours). Click here for more details, and to book a  refundable, return ferry ticket online, in advance .

Please note: These tickets do not include a guided tour of the island and archaeological site. If you prefer to have a guided tour, these are available for €60 – they include the ferry trip, entry to the site and the guide’s fees. See the section on Guided Tours below.

The Greek Ministry of Culture administers the tickets to the Delos site, but they are not related to the ferry company from Mykonos, so it is not possible to buy a ferry ticket with an entry only ticket without a guided tour.

The Mykonos to Delos ferry schedule for 2024

• The ferry crossing takes 30 minutes.
• The time pairings for the ferry from Mykonos to Delos, and then the return from Delos to Mykonos, allow for 3 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoons/evenings.
• When possible, you can take a later ferry. For example, if you travel on a Tuesday at 9.00 am, you are not required to take the 12 noon return sailing to Mykonos. You can take a later ferry should you wish to stay longer on the island. This is not possible in the evenings as there is only one return ferry journey daily.

Delos Entrance Fee

Unless you have reserved a guided tour of Delos that includes the entry fee, you are still required to pay to enter the site when you get off the ferry. As of 2021, the entrance fee for the Archaeological Site and Museum of Delos is €12 for an adult (if you qualify for a reduced ticket – that is €6, take your passport).

Guided Tours of Delos for Summer 2023

Guided tours of Delos cost €60 per person. Included in that price is a return ferry trip to the island from Mykonos, entry to the archaeological site and museum, and the guide’s fees. It is not possible to buy a ferry ticket and entry ticket without a guided tour.

Guided tours are available in English, Italian, Spanish, German and French. 

For an extra cost you can include a transfer from your hotel/accommodation to the port.

The guides follow a set route around the main features of the archaeological site, before leaving you at the museum to explore that yourself with ample time to see more of the site if you wish. If you do not know much about Greek archaeology and history, I strongly recommend taking a tour. The few people I spoke to all enjoyed the guided tour, coming away feeling their guides gave them a great introduction to the history of the site. The guides will take you to the highlights and explain what otherwise looks like a pile of rocks. While standing around listening to a guide in the heat of a summer’s day is not always a great way to visit an archaeology site, as you have limited time on the island, a guide beats reading a guidebook or the text-intensive information panels.

A big plus with taking a guided tour is that you do not have to wait in a queue once you reach the island to buy an entrance ticket.

Self Guided Tour of Delos

You do not have to take a guided tour. In which case, purchase your ferry ticket at the booth on the pier (or at any of the travel agents in Mykonos) for €20 and then pay a further €12 at the site ticket office when you arrive on the island. A total cost of €32. Or, if you are on Paros or Naxos, the €50 to cover the ferry ride to Delos and the €12 entry fee to Delos.

Archaeology Travel Tip

If you choose this option, I recommend being ready to get off the ferry as soon as it docks. Ferries from Mykonos and Naxos/Paros arrive around the same time and all those people who are not booked on a guided tour are then required to queue for a ticket to enter the site. You can wait up to 30 minutes if you are last off the boat. So as the boat nears the island, stand at the back of the boat and be ready to be one of the first off the boat. And then hot foot it to the ticket office. There is no time to be taking in the atmosphere once your feet are back on terra firma and taking photographs. Do that after you have your ticket.

To stay ahead of the groups being led by guides, I headed straight to the museum. There were only two other people going round the galleries at the same time as I did.

Interactive Map of Delos

For those who would like to take a self guided tour of the island, have a look at our suggested route. Click on the satellite image to use our Interactive Map of the Island of Delos .

Guide Books and Pamphlets

A free pamphlet, Delos, is available at the ferry ticket office on Mykonos and the site ticket office. This is a basic leaflet. And while it does have a map, it is a simple one; but enough to get around the site and see some of the main features.

The best, and also free (although definitely worth a few Euros!), leaflet I found was in the archaeology museum in Mykonos:  A Tour of the Archaeological Site of Delos . This not only has an excellent map, with nearly 100 features marked, it also has three suggested routes, taking an hour and a half, three hours and five hours. The pamphlet also has a good line-drawing showing a reconstruction of the sanctuary and ancient town. From this you get an excellent idea of just how extensive the ancient town was at its height.

Is Delos Worth a Visit?

Besides being one of the most important mythological, historical and archaeological sites in Greece, Delos is a wonderful island to visit. Whether you catch the ferry to Delos to take in as much of its cultural significance as you can, or go to experience for yourself one of the most evocative heritage sites in Greece, you will not be disappointed. The island of Delos truly does have something for everyone visiting Greece.

For those passionate about Greek history and archaeology, you may want to know why the archaeological site of Delos is so important? There are at least three broad reasons why the site is culturally significant.

First, architecture on Delos had a great influence on the development of architecture elsewhere during the Greco-Roman period. Second, from the 3rd millennium BC to the 7th century AD the island was an important place for the civilisations of the Aegean. For example, from the 7th to the 1st century BC, Delos was the site of one of the most important Hellensitic sanctuaries. Until at least 316 BC every four years in May the island hosted the ‘Feast of the Delians’, which was one of the major events of the region on a par with the the Olympic and the Pythic Games. Finally, Delos is directly associated with one of the main myths of Hellenic civilisation: it was on the island that Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis.

Added to the historical significance of the place itself, is the archaeological importance. For the casual visitor, if you are going to visit an archaeological site, you can’t do much better than Delos. And certainly, there is nothing else to see on Mykonos. Not only is the archaeological site an outstanding example of a religious sanctuary and a complete Mediterranean port and settlement, the preservation and authenticity of the site is quite exceptional.

Added to all this, the ferry ride from Mykonos to Delos is only 30 minutes, which is in itself an adventure for some. And considering three hours is the longest time you will have to stay on the island, both lovers of archaeology and Greek history and incidental tourists are catered for. Three hours is ample time to explore a lot of the site, and also a enough time to marvel at some of the highlights and enjoy a cool frappe or freshly squeezed ice cold orange juice with a spectacular view before heading back to the contemporary world.

Online or Virtual Tour of Delos

For those of you who can not get to Delos for whatever reason or those who are researching an upcoming trip to Delos – why not take a virtual tour of the archaeological site online? I recommend starting with the the two YouTube videos below. The first is a short clip (only two and a half minutes), the second is longer at just over 23 minutes. Whereas the first is a spectacular editing of drone footage, the second is short documentary created in 2015, directed by Andonis Kioukas and narrated by the Greek-French actor Georges Corraface. Both videos have their place in creating your own virtual experience, wherever you are. Also thoroughly enjoyable preparation research for anyone planning a trip to Delos.

Start with the shorter clip, if only to get a feel for this wonderful site. Then, I recommend watching the second video.

Having got a feel for the island, you can then explore the various features that interest you using our interactive/annotated Google map of Delos. First turn the map to satellite view (top left). This will give you an aerial view of the island, which you can zoom in on. Click and drag the yellow pegman (lower right) onto the map – drop it onto any of the blue dots that appear. These are 360° panorama photographs taken at the marked location. My numbered and named markers will help orientate you within the site. Unfortunately, Google has not produced a streetview walk through of the archaeological site; hence the lack of blue lines for those who notice they are missing.

Drone footage of the archaeological site of Delos

2015 documentary about Delos

Archaeology Travel Writer

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We're the leading provider of sea transport, day tours and longer excursions on Mykonos and around the Aegean - the best address for charters and rentals and a concierge portal to every quality service imaginable, including the fastest answer to your transport requirements by sea, land and air.

As a family-owned business founded in the 1920s, we are a veritable institution which brought the first visitors to Delos, the legendary ‘Island of Light’ that put Mykonos on the map, long before it became one of the world’s most glamorous summer destinations.

In addition to daily trips to Delos, shuttles to Paradise Beach and a regular Sea Bus transport between the ports and town, our fleet of nine vessels operates an exciting range of itineraries that includes both group tours and private outings at sea and on land.

It will be our pleasure to assist you with the perfect itinerary tailored to your individual requirements and budget. For private consultations and comprehensive Concierge Services on Mykonos, including bespoke services, accommodation bookings, air, and sea travel tickets. The Delos Tours head office is situated in Drafaki, 500 meters from the airport. Call us anytime on +30 22890 28603 or email us at  i [email protected] for further information.

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10 Best Things To Do in Delos, Greece [with Suggested Tours]

Are you planning to travel to Delos , Greece soon ? Read our tips below on the things to do in Delos with suggested tours!

The whole island of Delos is an archaeological site. If you’re a history buff and love archaeology, then this is the place for you. It is near Mykonos and is popularly known as the birthplace of Apollo. The island’s ruins include temples, markets, mosaic houses, and the famous Terrace of the Lions statues. Currently, there are no inhabitants on the island.

Note: There are no hotels or accommodation in Delos. The only people living on the island are the caretakers and archaeologists.

Other articles you can read:

• The 10 Best All Inclusive Resorts and Hotels in Greece
• How to Spend Your 5 Days on the Island of Crete in Greece
• 7 Awesome Things to Do in Athens, Greece
• 5 Reasons Why We Could Live Happily Ever After in Crete, Greece!
• 10 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece [with Suggested Tours]

Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Delos, Greece

1. archaeological site of delos.

For those who love ancient history and Greek history in particular, Delos is a fundamental stop to see at least once in a lifetime. A very large site, which takes at least two or three hours to see a bit of everything. Apollo and Artemi were born on Delos, which made the island a cultural and economic center in ancient Greece. Numerous temples, treasure houses, commercial buildings, country estates, and theaters were built, and the cultures of the Mediterranean came together here.

Suggested Tour: From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

2. Archaeological Museum of Delos

The museum of the archaeological site of Delos is small but allows you to discover pieces that were discovered in the ancient city of Delos. It is a very beautiful museum that deserves to be renovated and better integrated into the landscape of the island.

Suggested Tour:  The Original Evening Delos Guided Tour

3. Mount Kynthos

The climb to Mount Kynthos is steep but takes 15 minutes for a normally fit adult. At the top, the view is magnificent, on one side, you’ll see the whole site of Delos and the island of Riviera, and on the other on Mykonos. Going up, you can admire several important temples including that of Isis.

Suggested Tour:  Mykonos to Delos 4-Hour Tour

4. Avenue of the Lions

One of the most beautiful attractions of the archaeological site of Delos. The lions are just replicas because the real lions are in the museum. Although they are not the originals, they are very close replicas and positioned in the same places. Anyone who likes Greek mythology, can not miss a visit to Delos and consequently to this place.

5. House of Dionysus

This house is called Dionysus because its atrium is decorated with a magnificent mosaic representing this God. It is the largest patrician house in the Delos theater district. It is one of the things quite restored, you can understand how beautiful the mosaic is since it was preserved very well.

6. Cleopatra’s House

To begin with, do not confuse the Greek Cleopatra with authoritarian Queen Cleopatra of Egypt. It is one of the famous houses in the ruins of Delos. This house is part of the archaeological site of Delos which is very large. A distinctive feature is the well-preserved two headless statues of Cleopatra and Dioscorides.

Suggested Tour:  From Mykonos: Ancient Delos Tour

7. Temple of Isis

This temple and its cult were very popular in Hellenistic times when the Egyptian goddess Isis entered the Greek Pantheon. It is halfway up Mount Kynthos, which is the highest point on the island. The Temple of Isis retains its structure largely and inside there is still part of the statue of the goddess.

8. House of Masks

Another stop on the island tour. For conservation reasons, it is not possible to enter but still gives an idea of how it should have been originally. It is one of the most eccentric places on the site but worth the trip, the mosaics are superb and located right next to the dolphin house where there is also a superb well-preserved mosaic.

9. Agora of the Italians

Agora of the Italians used to be the place where food was sold. It was used by the Italian merchants during the Early Roman Era.

10. The Sacred Lake

The Sacred Lake is well-known as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Because of the Malaria Outbreak in 1929, the lake was drained to stop the spread. The lake is guarded by the Terrace of Lions.

11. Find accommodation in Delos, Greece

Where to stay near delos, greece, budget hotel.

Sunset Paraportiani Rooms

Sunset Paraportiani Rooms has situated 4.2 km from Nammos Mykonos and 400 m from Glam Club. It features accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The nearest airport is Mykonos Airport which is 2.7 km from the property.

Price: Starts at $57 per night for a Double Room, add $1 for taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Semeli Hotel

Hotel Semeli is situated in Mykonos town. All rooms or suites at Semeli Hotel have a flat-screen TV, seating area, marble bathroom, and French doors with sea views. Whitewashed walls and a garden with geraniums and bougainvilleas provide the rooms’ exterior setting. Some units have an indoor or outdoor hot tub. Free Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and free private on-site parking is possible.

Price: Starts at $243 per night for a Superior Double Room, add $5 for taxes and charges, includes breakfast, and offers a free cancellation.

Extra Tip: Check out Plumguide for the best holiday homes and vacation rentals in Greece .

These are the possible things you can do in Delos, Greece. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Delos.

How to go to Delos, Greece from London

Via Aegean Airlines: (one way with ones-stop)

There’s no airport in Delos

*From London Heathrow – Athens – Mykonos

Ticket Price: £166.30

*From Mykonos to Delos via Ferry

The ferry ride going to Delos from Mykonos only takes around 20 to 30 minutes but that depends on the weather and sea conditions. You can also travel by ferry from Naxos or Paros going to Delos as an alternative.

* Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.

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How to Visit Delos on a Day Trip from Mykonos

One of the best perks of a trip to Mykonos is its proximity to so many beautiful islands. Luckily, the closest island to Mykonos is also one of the most interesting and beautiful: the beautiful island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The island of Delos ticks all the boxes for a perfect day trip from Mykonos. Frequent connections by ferry, a beautiful setting, a stunning and well-preserved set of ruins: a day trip to Delos from Mykonos is as easy as it is rewarding.

While it can be hard to peel yourself away from the beautiful Mykonos beaches, I really recommend you do. Delos offers an incredible insight into ancient Greek civilization at its peak, and taking a tour of Delos reveals the hints of what life was like back in Delos’ heyday, more than 2,000 years ago.

Visiting Delos was one of the highlights of my recent trip to Greece, and I’d put Delos as one of my top 5 archaeological sites in Greece for history lovers. It’s right up there with the Acropolis, the Oracle of Delphi, and Akrotiri as must-visit sites. And since it’s only a 30-minute boat ride to Delos from Mykonos, you’d be a fool to skip it.

Getting to Delos from Mykonos

Truly, planning a day trip to Delos from Mykonos couldn’t be simpler. Boat connections leave from Mykonos Town (Chora) multiple times a day.

A ferry with Delos Tours is the most common way to get to Delos from Mykonos, and it’s what I personally did and recommend because they have phenomenal tour guides.

I did this tour with Delos Tours, and my guide, Athena, was fantastic. She’s an archaeologist and historian as well as being a guide, so she was able to bring so many of the structure to life for us and give us an insight into what clues were left behind by this ancient civilization.

To get to the port where they leave to Delos, walk to the Delos Tours ticket office at the Delos port. This is about a 10-minute walk from the Old Port, or a 5-minute walk from the restaurants on the harbor.

Alternately, if you are visiting Mykonos on a cruise, you’ll be coming from the New Port. In this case, you should take the sea bus for only two euros all the way to the Delos departure area.

The Delos to Mykonos Ferry Timetable

On Mondays , there is a ferry from Mykonos to Delos at 10 AM from May 2nd to October 31st, with a return ferry at 1:30 PM.

The Monday afternoon tour differs depending on the sunset time. From May 2nd to September 15, the ferry leaves at 5 PM and returns at 7:30 PM. From September 15 to September 30, the ferry leaves at 4:30 PM and returns at 7 PM.

From October 1 to October 14, the ferry leaves at 4 PM and comes back from Delos at 6:30 PM. From October 15 to October 31, the ferry leaves at 3:30 PM and returns at 6 PM.

On Tuesdays through Sunday , the schedule has many more options for morning tours, all between May 2nd and October 31st. There are morning departures at 9 AM, 10 AM, and 11:30 AM, with returns at noon, 1:30 PM, and 3 PM respectively.

The evening tours are staggered and follow the same timeline as the Monday afternoon tours listed above.

How far is Delos from Mykonos?

The boat to Delos to Mykonos is blissfully short. It’s only 15 kilometers, and the boat takes only 30 minutes. The ride is absolutely beautiful!

Can you stay overnight on Delos?

You cannot – Delos is strictly an archaeological site, and there are no hotels or any capacity to stay on the island overnight.

How much is the ferry from Mykonos to Delos?

The ferry costs 20 euros return, which does not include the 12 euro entrance fee, for a total of 32 euros.

I strongly recommend adding on a guide. For 50 euros, you get a return ticket, the entrance fee, and a roughly 2-hour guided tour of Delos. This is the half-day tour I booked: The Original Morning Delos Guided Tour. If you’d rather visit in the evening, you can check the Evening Tour offered by the same company.

Alternately, you can visit Delos as part of a full-day yacht sailing cruise which also includes Rhenia Island, so you can drink white wine, eat lunch, relax in the sun, swim and snorkel with the provided equipment, and enjoy a two-hour guided tour of Delos Island. This is the yacht cruise I recommend if you have the time!

What to See When You Visit Delos Archaeological Site

The Delos Archaeological Site is pretty big and spread out. Going on a tour will ensure you see all the highlights, which is why I chose to do it that way. Here are the top 5 things you should keep an eye out for when you visit.

The Temples of Apollo. There are three temples which were dedicated to Apollo, which now stand largely in ruins. The statues from these temples have been moved to the inner museum.

The Archaeological Museum of Delos : Many of the statues you’ll find in Delos have been moved inside, and replicas now stand in their place to protect the originals from Delos’ strong winds.

The Terrace of the Lions : This row of lion statues made of the finest Naxian marble is one of the most iconic sights of Delos. The originals have been moved into the museum to protect them from the elements, but replicas of the lions are placed where they originally stood for millennia.

The House of Dionysus : Best known for its beautiful mosaic floor and the remains of plaster stucco wall paintings, the House of Dionysus is a wonderful insight into the lives of the extremely wealthy who lived on Delos many millennia ago.

The Odeon. The ancient theater of Delos has been damaged quite a bit over the centuries, but it’s an impressive site nonetheless.

5 Big Mistakes People Make When They Visit Delos

Not bringing sun and wind protection. Delos is an open archaeology site, with virtually no protection from the elements. You will want to bring, at the very least, a large bottle of water, a sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. At the same time, be sure to bring some sort of sweater or windbreaker in case the wind picks up, as Delos can get incredibly windy.

Not wearing the right shoes. Delos is rocky and unpaved. Unlike Akrotiri, which has a boardwalk around the whole perimeter and through the town, you are walking outdoors on uneven terrain the entire time at Delos. I recommend walking shoes like sneakers or a really sturdy pair of sandals. I do not recommend cute flats that you don’t want to get gravel in with every other step…

Not going with a guide. While you can save some money by not going with a guide, I really don’t recommend skimping on this. Most of the interesting sites such as the Odeon and the House of Dionysus have very little information about them on placards, so you won’t really know what you are seeing.

A guide will help bring not only these important structures to life, but the everyday structures — the taverns, the houses, the fish markets, etc. – to give you the full imagining of what life on Delos would have been life.

Stepping on the marble. There are many marble blocks strewn on the ground at Delos, which is incredibly soft and porous. Do not step on the marble, as you risk damaging it and wearing it down over time.

Not eating beforehand. Delos is strictly an archaeological site, so there’s really not much in the way of infrastructure. It’s just a ticket booth, a museum shop (which was closed when I went), and a bathroom with just two stalls. Be sure to eat beforehand — you can buy snacks on the boat or grab something to eat before you leave Mykonos harbor.

Delos Tours Mentioned in the Post

For a quick list of the Delos tours I mentioned in this post, here they are:

• Delos Morning Tour
• Delos Evening Tour
• Full Day Yacht Cruise and Delos Tour

Pin This Guide to Visiting Delos from Mykonos Here

5 Things to Bring with You to Greece

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more packing tips, check out our complete  Greece packing list.

–  A physical guidebook, in paper or on Kindle . We love  Lon ely  Planet  Greece  for this region and strongly recommend it to supplement blogs. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips.

–  A water bottle with a filter . We generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant! We recommend  the GRAYL water bottle  – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

–  Motion sickness pills . Mykonos roads are winding, especially around the coast. If you have a weak stomach as we do, save yourself and bring some  non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

–  Travel safety items . We think Athens is safe to travel, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Some people like to carry  money belts , but neither Stephanie or I use these. Instead, we both carry the same  PacSafe anti-theft backpack .

It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as it’s neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

Read More:  Essential Greece Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Greece

More Greece Resources

First read our guide to  planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more.

Next, you’ll want to read our all-season  Greece packing list .

If you are still trying to figure out your Greece itinerary, check out our guides on  where to go in Greece , the best places for  island hopping in Greece , and when is the  best time to visit. 

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our  Greece  and  Balkan  travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

I’m sure you’re aware that it’s a good idea to have  travel insurance  for traveling in Mykonos, Greece in general, or anywhere in the world!

Stephanie and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption. 

While Mykonos is safe, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel like theft or injury, so it’s better to play it safe.

>>  Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here  <<

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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