How to Visit Delos on a Day Trip from Mykonos
The first time we got to Mykonos we were not that impressed. Granted, the beaches are super nice and the vibe is fun. However, we thought it was a bit overpriced and crowded.
What made us change our minds was Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. In fact, going to Delos makes going to Mykonos a must.
We went back to Mykonos with friends and had to convince them to lay down their cocktails and go to Delos. There are great cocktails all around Greece, but only one Delos!
Brief History
One of us is obsessed with Greek mythology, so we knew that Apollo and Artemis (no, it’s not Ortygia) were born here. That’s why the island became a sanctuary in the 9th Century BC.
However, the island reached its peak and became the most important trading port in the world in the 2nd Century BC. Such greatness didn’t last much and after being attacked by pirates twice the island became a quarry and fell into oblivion.
Most of what you can see today dates back to the 7th to the 1st Centuries BC. Note that the Archaeological Museum of Athens homes artifacts, sculptures, and mosaics from Delos.
Visiting Delos on Your Own
We went to Delos on our own. We took the boat that departs from Mykonos Old Port, near Little Venice. Public buses take you there from most beaches, including Ornos, Agios Ioannis, Psarou, Paradise and Paraga.
You buy the ticket at the port. The trip lasts 30 minutes. You can prebook your boat ticket here. Boats depart at 9, 10, and 11 AM and return at 12, 1:30 and 3 PM (and sometimes 5 and 7 PM) in high season.
Be sure to ask at your hotel for the exact ferry times on the day you plan to go. Once on the island you buy your entrance ticket to the site and the museum. No online tickets.
What to See on the Island
First and foremost, the island is beautiful. Since there are no big buildings but remains you feel you are back in ancient Greece. The Agora of the Competaliasts is next to the port.
From there we climbed mount Cynthus to get a panoramic view of the island. It’s the highest point and the birthplace of Apollo. From there we went down south to the Ancient Theatre.
Look out for the mosaics in the Sanctuary of Dyonisos and the House of Cleopatra. The Grand Terrace of the Lions is to the north. The museum is on the slope, east of the terrace.
Organized Trips
Though there are signs with information in English, it can be tricky to identify all of the places. We had read about the place so had an idea of what and where to go.
We took our time but made sure we saw everything. However, our friends took this organized trip and loved it. To be honest, they ended up knowing much more about Delos than us!
The tour includes the boat and the site tickets. The guided tour lasts 90 minutes and includes an expert guide. The whole trip takes 4 hours.
Practical Tips
Try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat. Be sure to bring (and take back) your own recycled water bottle. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and a hat are mandatory, even in winter.
There is a tiny but pricey cafe on the island to grab a bite and drinks. We had a snack before boarding the boat to feel energized.
Note that in high season, boats and tours get sold quickly so we strongly recommend you book in advance. Take your time and explore the island at your own pace.
Interesting Places Nearby
Rhenia is the bigger island super close to Delos. It’s an uninhabited island with gorgeous beaches and temples. Unfortunately, there are no public ferries that link both islands.
In fact, there are no public ferries from Mykonos to Rhenia. That’s why we once took this organized tour. It takes you to Rhenia with a stopover in Delos.
No guide in Delos, so we walked on our own. Then Captain Dimitris took us to the perfect spot to swim in Rhenia. Considering all that the tour includes, we considered it a bargain.
