About Delos
Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Greece's most important archaeological sites and mythology's most sacred island. According to legend, this tiny uninhabited island was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. From the 9th century BC to Roman times, Delos served as a major religious sanctuary, commercial hub, and cultural center. Today, its extensive ruins cover the entire island, offering an unparalleled journey through ancient Greek civilization.
⏰ Ferry Schedule & Timing
- Ferry departures: Daily at 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM from Mykonos Old Port
- Return ferries: 12 PM, 1:30 PM, 3 PM (last boat crucial - miss it, you're stranded)
- Crossing time: 30 minutes each way
- Best strategy: Take 9 AM boat, return on 1:30 PM or 3 PM (allows 3-4 hours on island)
- Season: April-October only (winter ferries suspended)
- Weather dependent: Strong winds cancel ferries - check morning of trip
💰 Costs
- Round-trip ferry: €20-25 per person (book at Old Port or online)
- Site entrance: €12 adults | €6 reduced (students, seniors 65+)
- Free entry: Under 18, archaeology students, March 25, October 28
- Group guided tours: €80-120 per person (ferry + guide + entrance)
- Private guide: €300-450 for up to 6 people (doesn't include ferry/entrance)
- No food available: Bring snacks and 2+ liters water per person
Guide essential: Without expert context, Delos is overwhelming piles of ruins. Licensed archaeological guides transform scattered stones into living ancient civilization.
🎯 Why Use a Guide
- Archaeological expertise: Decode ruins that look like random rocks to untrained eyes
- Mythology stories: Apollo and Artemis birth legends, sacred lake tales
- Historical context: Religious significance, commercial importance, Roman takeover
- Efficient routing: Cover massive site systematically in limited ferry time
- Hidden details: Mosaics, inscriptions, architectural features easily missed
- Time management: Ensure you don't miss return ferry while exploring
✨ Don't Miss
- 🏛️ Terrace of the Lions - Iconic marble lion statues (9th century BC replicas)
- 🏛️ Temple of Apollo - Sacred sanctuary, island's religious heart
- 🏠 House of Dionysus - Stunning floor mosaics depicting the god riding a panther
- 🏠 House of Cleopatra - Statues of wealthy merchants, impressive preservation
- 🎭 Ancient Theatre - 5,500-seat amphitheater with harbor views
- 🏛️ Sacred Lake - Dried now, where Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis
- ⛰️ Mount Kynthos - Climb 113m hill for panoramic Cyclades views
- 🏛️ Archaeological Museum - Artifacts, sculptures, pottery from excavations
📝 Practical Tips
- Book ferry ahead: Summer boats fill up - book day before at Old Port office
- Arrive early: 8:30 AM at port for 9 AM ferry - it leaves on time
- Don't miss return boat: Last ferry at 3 PM - if missed, private boat costs €200+
- Bring essentials: Water (2L per person), snacks, sun protection, comfortable shoes
- Zero facilities: No food, drinks, shade, or restrooms on island - plan accordingly
- Sun exposure: Completely exposed ruins, 35°C+ in summer, hat mandatory
- Comfortable footwear: 3-4 hours walking on uneven ancient stones
- Photography freedom: Allowed throughout, no restrictions
- Swimming forbidden: Sacred site - no beach activities permitted
🏛️ Historical Significance
Delos reached its peak as a religious and commercial center from the 3rd to 1st century BC. As Apollo's birthplace, it attracted pilgrims from across the ancient Greek world. The island also became the Mediterranean's major slave trading center under Roman rule, with 10,000+ slaves traded daily. Excavations began in 1872 and continue today, revealing houses, temples, markets, and theaters that paint a vivid picture of ancient daily life.