Delos
Sacred island and UNESCO site, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, boasting vast ancient ruins.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the midday sun
Delos
Best Time
Escape the midday sun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sacred island and UNESCO site, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, boasting vast ancient ruins.
"A must-see in Greece! Immerse yourself in a rich archaeological past that will make you feel like you're taken back to that time period."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and dusty. Platforms broke for one visitor! Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets incredibly hot and there's little shade. Bring plenty of water or buy it before you go. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sanctuary of Apollo
Sacred Precinct
The heart of ancient Delos, dedicated to the god of light and music. Imagine the pilgrims who once walked these sacred grounds.

Terrace of the Lions
Sacred Way
Iconic marble lions guarding the Sacred Way, a testament to Delos's past grandeur and artistic prowess.

Mount Kynthos Summit
Highest Point
Climb for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and the surrounding Aegean Sea. A truly majestic vista.

House of Dionysus Mosaics
Residential Quarter
Marvel at intricate floor mosaics depicting mythological scenes, offering a glimpse into ancient domestic life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Maximize Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and dusty. Platforms broke for one visitor! Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets incredibly hot and there's little shade. Bring plenty of water or buy it before you go. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. The sun is intense with minimal shade. :sunwithface:
🧐 Consider a Guide
A guide enhances the experience, providing deep historical context. You can often join a tour and then explore independently.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and dusty. Platforms broke for one visitor! Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets incredibly hot and there's little shade. Bring plenty of water or buy it before you go. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. The sun is intense with minimal shade. :sunwithface:
🧐 Consider a Guide
A guide enhances the experience, providing deep historical context. You can often join a tour and then explore independently.
🐱 Watch for Kitties!
The island is home to many friendly cats, but be cautious as some have been known to bite. :cat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Delos is lauded as a historically significant and mythologically rich site, offering a profound journey into ancient Greece. Visitors are captivated by the extensive ruins and the sacred atmosphere. However, some find the admission and ferry costs steep for the experience, and the intense heat and lack of amenities can detract from the visit.
"I thought it was ok, not sure if it is worth the trip if you've just come from Athens. If you have nothing better to do, you could have a look. It costs €20 for the boat ride and another €20 to get in which I think is a bit of a rip off in fairness considering..."
Frank Higwanz Higgins
"Pre history, history, his story? Regardless of how you see it the mythological birthplace of Apollo was still a magical place to see. Super hot and dusty so wear great shoes! I wore platforms and they broke so if that says anything hahah. We didn’t have enough time to see the museum bc I couldn’t walk right with a broken shoe. But still lovely too the almost prestige and preserved buildings and statues.
Watch out for the kitties! While they’re cute I’ve seen a couple people get bit hahah"
Pink Dragun (Pink_Dragun)
"Birthplace of Apollo. The island is very beautiful and has lot of ruins. You can take boat from Mykanos and good to go with a guide. Guide will give you indepth details of each ruin. Good scenic island."
Sandeep Ramankutty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferries depart regularly from Mykonos Old Port to Delos. The journey is short, about 20-30 minutes. It's a very easy day trip from Mykonos town. Check ferry schedules in advance, especially during peak season.
While Mykonos is the primary departure point, some organized excursions might depart from other nearby Cycladic islands. However, Mykonos offers the most frequent and convenient options for ferries to Delos.
Ferry tickets typically cost around €20 round trip, but prices can vary. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
You can visit Delos independently, but many visitors find a guided tour enhances the experience by providing historical context. Some tours allow you to join for the explanation and then explore on your own.
Ferries typically start running in the morning and the last return ferry is usually in the late afternoon. It's crucial to check the exact schedule on the day of your visit as it can change.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the archaeological site of Delos usually costs around €20. This is separate from the ferry ticket price. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Delos is generally open daily during daylight hours. However, specific opening and closing times can vary seasonally and are subject to change. Always verify the current hours before your visit.
While direct online booking for Delos site entry might not always be available, you can often purchase ferry tickets online in advance. It's best to buy site tickets upon arrival or through your tour operator.
Typically, ferry tickets and site entrance tickets are sold separately. You'll need to purchase your ferry ticket to get to the island and then buy your admission ticket for the archaeological site.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as students or seniors, but this is not always guaranteed. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office or check official sources for any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Delos boasts extensive ruins including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Terrace of the Lions, ancient theaters, houses with mosaics, and the Archaeological Museum of Delos. It's a vast site showcasing a significant part of ancient Greek history.
To truly appreciate the site, plan for at least 4-5 hours. Many visitors feel that a shorter visit, like 2-3 hours, is not enough to see everything.
The terrain is very uneven, sandy, and rocky, with many ruins to navigate. It can be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. Sturdy footwear is essential.
The museum houses artifacts found on the island, including sculptures, pottery, and architectural fragments. It provides further context to the ruins you see.
Photography is generally allowed throughout the archaeological site, but be respectful of the ancient ruins. Some areas within the museum might have restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are very limited facilities on Delos. You'll find a small cafe or snack bar near the entrance, but options are scarce. It's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, bringing your own food and water is strongly advised. There are few (if any) reliable places to purchase refreshments on the island, and it gets very hot.
The cafe typically offers basic snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Don't expect a full restaurant experience. It's best to pack a picnic to ensure you have enough to eat.
Given the limited options, prices at the cafe can be on the higher side due to the remote location. Packing your own food is a more budget-friendly and reliable option.
Mykonos town offers a wide array of restaurants, from traditional tavernas to upscale dining. Explore the charming alleys of Mykonos town for numerous culinary choices before or after your trip to Delos.
📸 📸 Photography
The Terrace of the Lions, the panoramic views from Mount Kynthos, the ancient theater, and the mosaic houses offer stunning photographic opportunities. The entire site is incredibly photogenic.
The lighting can be harsh midday. Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer people, making photography easier and more enjoyable.
Generally, photography is permitted throughout the archaeological site. However, always be mindful of any specific signage within the museum or certain restricted areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive ruins. Consider a lightweight setup as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in archaeological sites and protected areas to preserve the heritage and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mythological Significance of Delos
The island's mythological importance is deeply intertwined with its historical role as a major religious and commercial center. Its strategic location in the Cyclades made it a vital hub for trade and cultural exchange. The reverence for Apollo, the god of light, music, and prophecy, imbued Delos with a unique spiritual aura that drew people seeking divine favor and guidance.
Exploring the Archaeological Site of Delos
One of the most striking aspects of Delos is the sheer scale and preservation of its ruins. You can walk through ancient streets, imagine the bustling marketplace, and marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the time. The Archaeological Museum of Delos complements the outdoor site, housing many of the artifacts discovered, including impressive sculptures and pottery. The House of Dionysus and the House of the Masks are particularly noteworthy for their well-preserved mosaics, offering vibrant depictions of mythological scenes and daily life.
For a truly unforgettable perspective, the climb to the summit of Mount Kynthos is highly recommended. From this vantage point, you can survey the entire island, the surrounding Cyclades, and the vast Aegean Sea, imagining the ancient inhabitants who once gazed upon the same breathtaking panorama. The experience of walking through Delos is often described as stepping back in time, a profound connection to the past that resonates deeply with visitors.
Practicalities for Visiting Delos
Getting to Delos is straightforward, with frequent ferries departing from Mykonos Old Port. The journey is short, making it an accessible day trip. While independent exploration is possible, many travelers find that hiring a guide significantly enhances their understanding and appreciation of the site's rich history and mythology. Guides can offer in-depth narratives that bring the ruins to life. Allocate at least 4-5 hours for your visit to properly explore the extensive archaeological site and the museum. Be mindful of the last ferry departure time to ensure you don't miss your ride back to Mykonos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit