Delos day trip from Mykonos: how to go, prices and more tours
The most popular excursion from Mykonos, and a few more half-day ideas.
- Boats to Delos leave from the Old Port, about 30 minutes, about €25 return.
- The site is closed on Mondays and overnight stays are not allowed.
- A guided tour costs about €60–80 and is worth it.
Take the first morning boat, bring water and a hat, and do not leave Delos for your last day because of the wind.
What is Delos and why go from Mykonos?
Delos is a small uninhabited island right next to Mykonos, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. In Greek mythology it is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and in antiquity the island was a religious and trading centre of the Aegean. Today the whole island is an open archaeological site: streets, houses with mosaics, temples, a theatre and the famous Terrace of the Lions.
The trip to Delos is the most popular excursion from Mykonos, and it suits even visitors who came mainly for beaches and nightlife: in half a day you see something completely different.
How to get to Delos from Mykonos
- Boats leave from the Old Port of Mykonos (in the main town, not the new port where the big ferries dock).
- The crossing takes about half an hour.
- Price: according to Greek Trip Planner, a return boat ticket costs about €25. Entry to the archaeological site is paid separately, so check the current price before you go.
- A guided tour including the boat and a guide costs roughly €60–80 per person. It is worth it if you want to understand what you are seeing, because there are few signs on the site.
When is Delos open?
- Season: boats run mainly from April to October. In winter service is very limited.
- Days: according to Greek Trip Planner, the site is closed on Mondays. Confirm current opening hours before you go.
- No overnight stays: you are not allowed to stay overnight on Delos, and all visitors return on the last boat.
Tips for visiting Delos
- Water, a hat and sunscreen. There is almost no shade on the island, and summer is very hot. There is a small café, but bring water.
- Comfortable shoes. Paths are stone and earth, not suitable for flip-flops.
- Take the first morning boat to beat the heat and the groups.
- In strong wind (the summer meltemi) boats are sometimes cancelled. Do not leave the trip for your last day.
- With kids: the visit suits children who like walking, but not pushchairs.
More excursions from Mykonos
- Beach cruises. Boats to beaches in the south and coves that are hard to reach by land.
- Sunset cruises. Popular in the evening, with views of the white town and the windmills.
- A day on a nearby island. Short ferries link Mykonos to Tinos, Naxos and Paros, so you can add a day on another island. See the Cyclades islands guide.
More on Mykonos: the comprehensive guide to Mykonos, Mykonos off season and the Mykonos destination page. Getting there: ferry from Athens to Mykonos.
FAQ
How long does a Delos trip take? About half an hour each way by boat, and visitors usually spend two to three hours on the site. About half a day in all.
How much does a Delos trip cost? About €25 for the return boat, plus site entry. A full guided tour costs roughly €60–80.
Can you stay overnight on Delos? No. Overnight stays are not allowed, and all visitors return to Mykonos the same day.
Which day is Delos closed? According to Greek Trip Planner, Mondays. Check opening hours before you go.
