Historical Things to Do in Mykonos: Dive into History with a Trip to Delos, the Island of Apollo
If you find yourself in Mykonos, the island of fun and stunning beaches, you can’t miss a trip to the nearby island of Delos. This small, rocky, and rugged island, which emerges from the deep blue of the Aegean Sea, is a true treasure trove of history and mythology. According to legend, it rose from the depths to give birth to Apollo, the god of light.
What was once a bustling commercial and spiritual center is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an experience that enriches your trip and makes you reflect on the historical richness of these places. The archaeological site is immense, a large circuit where every step reveals a piece of history. We made a small route mistake and went in reverse, but in the end, we saw everything. The artifacts are not as extraordinarily preserved as in Pompeii or Herculaneum, but their historical and cultural importance is immense.
Table of Contents for Historical Things to Do in Mykonos: Trip to Delos
Guide to Historical Things to Do in Mykonos: Visiting Delos
Planning Your Visit: How to Get to Delos
The most common way to get to Delos from Mykonos is by boat or as part of a guided tour. The main operator is “Delos Tours,” and you can easily buy tickets online on their website, choosing your departure time. During our visit in August 2025, there were two departures: one in the morning at 10:00 AM and one in the afternoon at 5:00 PM, with return options at 1:30 PM or 8:00 PM.
Morning or Afternoon? The Best Time to Visit Delos
The best time to visit Delos depends on your preference. A morning departure gives you more time to explore every corner of the archaeological site, but you’ll have to face the hottest hours of the day. We don’t recommend this option, especially in the middle of summer, if you’re not used to intense heat.
We opted for the 5:00 PM afternoon departure, and it turned out to be the best choice. This allowed us to avoid the most scorching hours and, on the way back, to enjoy a magnificent sunset over the sea with a view of Mykonos Town. The return boat trip, with the golden light enveloping the island, is a truly magical experience and a perfect opportunity to take unforgettable photos. The only downside of the afternoon visit is that you have less time before the site closes at 8:00 PM, so you have to organize yourself to see everything that interests you.
The Travel Experience and the Magic of the Return
The boat trip takes about 30 minutes and is a pleasant experience in itself. As you move away from the port, you can admire the profile of the Mykonos coastline. The boats, although full, are not excessively crowded, especially in the afternoon. There’s also a small bar and restrooms on board. A golden tip for your photos: on the way there, sit on the left side of the boat to get a view of the Mykonos coast as you move away. On the way back, however, sit on the right side. This way, you can admire and photograph the windmills and Mykonos Town illuminated by the sunset light, with no one in front of you.
Delos: A Millennial History, a Melting Pot of Peoples
The history of Delos is fascinating and complex, like a mosaic made of stones and stories. The island, since its origins, was considered a sacred place due to its connection with the god Apollo. The first settlers of Delos were fishermen or pirates who arrived on the island about four thousand years ago.
Over the centuries, the island transformed into a thriving commercial and spiritual center. When Alexander the Great conquered the Persian Empire, the Greek world changed, and the old religion came under pressure from new cults. The Greeks turned to Egyptian deities like Isis, who offered spiritual support in times of great change. By the end of the 3rd century B.C., the cult of Isis had established itself in Athens and Delos.
The image of the Egyptian goddess was replaced by a new one similar to other Greek deities. Isis wore multicolored robes that represented light and darkness or life and death. In early March, to open the nautical season, her statue was transferred to a lavishly decorated ship. The sailors of Delos called her “Pelagia” (meaning “of the sea”) and “Euploia” (meaning “of good navigation”) and turned to her in times of difficulty at sea.
The Prosperity and Wealth of the Island
The Romans, as ambitious as the Athenians, used Delos to defeat their adversaries. In 167 B.C., they abolished duties at the island’s port and deported its inhabitants, making way for a new wave of settlers who hoped to become rich. Greeks, Italians, Syrians, Jews, Egyptians, and Phoenicians quickly created a city where you could buy everything, including countless slaves brought by pirates. Over 250 ships could safely dock in the large harbor.
The wealthy inhabitants could afford expensive lamps with multiple spouts that consumed a lot of oil just to show off their wealth. The Agora of the Compitaliasts hosted merchants and bankers from Southern Italy and Sicily.
These merchants were under the protection of Hermes, the god of travelers and merchants, to whom marble monuments were dedicated in the center of the square. The agoras (market squares) and streets were paved with stone and compacted earth, while the smaller streets in the theater district were irregular.
One striking aspect is its nature as an island “without births or deaths.” In 426 B.C., the Athenians purified the island by removing all tombs and imposing a ban on being born or dying on Delos. Unlike these restrictions, there were no restrictions when it came to making money. Empires rose and fell throughout the Mediterranean, but on the small island of Delos, everyone was welcome to engage in trade and worship.
Daily Life in Delos: Hygiene and Domestic Life
Life in Delos, as in other ancient cities, presented significant challenges regarding hygiene. Drinking water was not available on the island and had to be imported or collected in cisterns. Daily life was not easy for most of the island’s inhabitants, who lived in small houses with cramped spaces.
Restrooms were rudimentary, and baths were often shared by several families. Personal hygiene was a luxury that only the wealthy could afford.
To wash and clean their clothes, the inhabitants of Delos went to public baths, often located near the gymnasiums. The latrines were a simple hole in the ground that discharged waste directly into the streets or fields, becoming an ideal environment for rodents and a breeding ground for diseases. Rainwater was vital and was collected for daily use in special cisterns.
A Mosaic of Faith: The Coexistence of Cults
Delos, in addition to being a sacred island for Apollo, was a true “melting pot” of faiths, where deities of different origins were worshipped, reflecting its cosmopolitan nature. Along the streets, you could find temples dedicated to Eastern deities, which merchants and slaves from Egypt and Syria had brought with them. One of the most significant examples is the Sanctuary of Serapis, whose construction was funded by wealthy Egyptian merchants.
This temple, located near those of other Egyptian deities like Anubis and Isis, demonstrates the importance of the Egyptian community on the island. Alongside them, the temples of Syrian deities, like Atargatis, highlight the presence of other cultures. The temple of Heracles (Hercules), the legendary Greek hero, was a place of worship for Macedonian soldiers, and his presence attests to the fusion of cults and traditions. These religious structures offered spiritual protection to sailors and merchants, who relied on the gods for the safety of their journeys and their cargo.
The Decline of Delos
Unfortunately, the fate of Delos was sealed by the very god who protected it. Hermes was also the god of thieves, and between 88 and 69 B.C., he allowed pirates and enemies of Rome to sack the city. The island never fully recovered and was abandoned when trade routes shifted and the spread of Christianity overshadowed the cult of Apollo.
The ruins became an open-air quarry for builders on the surrounding islands. Everything that remained was buried and lost until 1873, when the French School of Archaeology in Athens began excavations that brought the lost city back to light.
The Entertainment Area: The Delian Games and Athletes
The site was an important center for sports and cultural events, held in honor of the god Apollo. The archaeological finds, while not extraordinarily preserved, reveal immense historical and cultural importance.
The Theater
The theater of Delos was built of stone in 298 B.C., during the Hellenistic period. Its construction testifies to the cosmopolitan character and wealth of the island, which hosted a large population, including merchants from Italy.
The building, with a capacity of about 5,500 people, was a symbol of prestige and was used not only for shows but also as a meeting place. Its practical functions were crucial, as the theater also served to collect rainwater through an ingenious system of cisterns, a vital need on an island almost entirely without water sources.
The Terrace of the Lions
Here you will find the reproductions of the famous lions of Delos. The lions, made of marble and positioned along a large avenue, were the faithful guardians of the sacred lake of Leto, which was drained, and the sanctuary of the gods. They were carved by sculptors from Naxos in pure Naxian marble. The area of the lions extended along the avenue leading to the Sacred Lake.
Their presence marked an area where, in addition to commerce, activities related to the entertainment of sailors and merchants also took place. The original lions, numbering between 9 and 16, are now preserved inside the museum, with a modern head.
The House of Dionysus and the House of the Masks
The “House of Dionysus” is located in the Theater Quarter, the oldest district on the island. Here you can admire the remains of lavish houses, such as that of Dionysus. Nearby is the “House of the Masks,” which stands at the foot of Mount Cynthus. As is typical of Delos houses, the rooms are arranged around a central square courtyard that allows air and light to reach all the rooms.
The owners, whose identity is unknown, were wealthy and decorated the four main rooms with elaborate mosaics. The mosaics, made with pebbles or recycled materials, depict ten theatrical masks. The secondary rooms had earthen floors, while the upper rooms had wooden floors.
The Colossus of the Naxians and the Temple of Hera
At the Museum, we had the opportunity to see the remains of a huge statue, the famous Colossus of the Naxians. The exact height of the original statue is estimated to be between 9 and 10 meters. It was a colossal statue of Apollo, erected in the 6th century B.C., whose bronze parts covering his head and hair glittered in the sun, making it visible and recognizable even from afar.
Today, only a few fragments of the original statue remain in the museum. The body parts were knocked down by the Venetians in 1673 and broken into pieces by Turks, Maltese, and Cyclades, as the statue obstructed the passage of their boats. The fragments were later brought to the museum. Another notable artifact is the Temple of Hera, which is located in an area far from the sanctuary of Apollo and the port. This temple was identified by a cult statue dedicated to the goddess. A short distance away, there is a wall inscription that reads “Eptastadion.”
The Cave of Hercules: The Optional Ascent, where the View is Scenic Even from Below
Among the temples of Delos stands the promontory of Heracles, reachable by a staircase. If your time is limited or you prefer to rest, don’t worry: the view from below is just as breathtaking. In our case, the view of the staircase with the moon rising right next to it, in a play of still-daylight, made the experience unforgettable, proving that the magic of this place can be enjoyed from every perspective.
The Museum: The Beating Heart of the Site
A visit to the museum is essential. This is where the original artifacts are found, including the famous lions and the remains of the Colossus of the Naxians. Inside, you can also see archaic statues of Kouroi (nude young men) and Korai (clothed young women). There is also a representation of athlete sculptures, which reflected the beauty of the young people who participated in the festivals of Apollo.
The museum is a must-see for anyone who wants to fully understand the history of the place and admire the works that have stood the test of time up close. The seals preserve representations of gods, mainly Eros, Apollo, and Herakles, heroes, and various objects. The owners of the House of the Seals prayed to Zeus, Apollo, Poseidon, and Herakles for the safety of their cargo, as can be seen from the altar found there.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to Delos
To fully enjoy your experience in Delos, keep these tips in mind:
- Prices and Audioguide: The entrance fee to the site is €20. For a truly meaningful visit, we highly recommend using some form of support, whether it’s a tour guide or an audio guide. Without a narrative context, the site could lose much of its meaning.
- Clothing and Shoes: Wear light and breathable clothes, but most importantly, choose comfortable and sturdy shoes. The terrain on the island is uneven, in some places unpaved and rocky, and you will walk a lot.
- Hydration and Sun Protection: In summer, the sun beats down hard. Bring water with you and don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: As an island, you might encounter insects or spiders. Always pay attention to where you are stepping.
- Manage Your Time: The circular path of the island is very extensive. If you get lost at the beginning, you might not be able to complete the visit and, most importantly, risk missing the return boat. Keep an eye on the clock and proceed at a brisk pace so you aren’t caught off guard. Once the boat leaves, there is no other way to leave the island.
Reflections on the Route and the Best Time for the Visit
Choosing the right time for the visit is crucial, especially in summer. Our afternoon departure, despite having the same amount of time as the morning, allowed us to tackle the route in much more bearable conditions.
Even arriving at 5:30 PM and starting the exploration at 6:00 PM, the heat was still intense, but it was clear that leaving in the morning, with the sun beating down, would have been much more strenuous. Imagine arriving at 10:30 AM and finding yourself in the heart of the site, perhaps around noon, with the scorching sun and few shaded areas. The climbs and descents that characterize the path can be very demanding, and the time needed to stop and listen to the audio guide or read the signs never seems to be enough.
For this very reason, it is essential to prepare as best you can. The island’s terrain is uneven and at times rocky, so it is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. Additionally, it’s advisable to opt for light and breathable clothing that helps you tolerate the heat. The visit, given the need to walk on paths that are not always easy, may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Despite the difficulties, the breathtaking panorama that can be admired along the way, especially at sunset, makes every effort worthwhile, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Calculate Your Time Well
As I’ve already said, on Delos, the time available is not unlimited and every second is precious. Our 5:00 PM boat, for example, gave us about 2.5 hours to explore the site before departure. It’s easy to get lost among the ruins and the excitement of discovery, but it’s crucial not to lose sight of the clock. Once the boat leaves, there are no other options to leave the island, so there is no room for error.
To all this, you must add another fundamental variable: the time you lose at the ticket office. As soon as you get off the boat, you have to queue up to buy the entrance ticket to the archaeological site. If you are entitled to discounts and need to show documents, keep in mind that the internet connection on the island is non-existent, so it’s better to have everything already downloaded or in paper format to avoid delays.
Once you enter, plan every step carefully. The path is long, and for a while, you move away from the pier to delve into the island. When we found ourselves in the middle of the site, we met other visitors who, with anxiety in their eyes, were asking how far away the various attractions were. Don’t be like them: plan your route well and, if necessary, give up on a part of the visit to make sure you get back to the pier in time.
The Magic of Delos: The Emotions of a Dive into the Past
For those who visit the island, the emotion is not only linked to the discovery of the artifacts but also to the atmosphere you breathe. The archaeological ruins, while not intact, offer an experience rich in suggestions, as Gabriel recounts.
“One of the things that moved me the most was the point where you get to the foot of the mountain, where an imposing staircase climbs upward as if it were Mount Olympus. At the top, the Cave of Hercules promised a breathtaking view, and even though we admired the panorama from below, the view was incredibly scenic.
Another detail that struck me was the story of the Colossus of the Naxians, a nine-meter-high statue with bronze hair that reflected the sunlight. Today, only the bases remain at the archaeological site and some fingers are preserved in the museum, but its story is fascinating. It was also nice to look for the exact spot where it once stood, imagining how majestic it must have been and how visible from the sea. The experience of Delos is not just a visit, but a real journey through time.”
Audioguide and Tickets: The Importance of Downloading Offline
Another golden tip concerns the connection. The island of Delos has an extremely weak internet signal, almost non-existent in many areas. For this reason, it is fundamental to download any content you need in advance. If you have purchased the audio guide online, make sure the content is already downloaded to your phone before getting on the boat. The same applies to any digital documents needed to get discounts or free tickets, such as a disability card or student ID: you won’t be able to show the online documentation at the ticket office. Preparing in advance will save you time and unpleasant inconveniences at the entrance to the archaeological site.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Visiting Delos?
The answer is a definite yes. The visit to Delos is an experience that goes beyond simple summer fun. Understanding the history hidden behind these stones and these ruins is a unique enrichment. The island has a uniqueness that makes it unmissable. While beautiful beaches can be found elsewhere, a place like Delos, with its millennial history and almost magical atmosphere, is a heritage to be discovered.
An Unexpected Dive into History: Our Trip to Delos from Mykonos
When the effervescent Mykonos wins you over with its golden beaches and wild nightlife, sometimes you want a break, an experience that nourishes the mind and not just the party spirit. And so, driven by curiosity, we decided to set sail for an adventure that would catapult us back in time: a visit to the island of Delos.
To organize everything, the simplest solution was to rely on a tour. We chose the Delos Tours option and booked tickets online to secure our spot. In August, with the sun beating down hard, the only sensible option for us was the afternoon departure, the one at 5:00 PM. A good choice, which allowed us to avoid the most intense heat and enjoy the return to Mykonos Town at dusk, an experience that would prove to be pleasant. With the audio guide included in the ticket, we spent €40 each for a trip that promised a great afternoon.
The adventure began with a pleasant walk through the picturesque streets of Mykonos Town. We left the car parked in a convenient area near the center and enjoyed every corner, discovering interesting views as we headed towards the Old Port. Arriving at the boarding point, with the tickets already picked up, all that was left was to get on board. The boat, unlike the alarming comments we had read online, was full but not crowded. We found a spot in the shade on the deck and prepared to set sail.
The navigation was a succession of colors and sensations. The wind tousling our hair, the view of the coast moving away, the other islands appearing on the horizon. But a particularly pleasant moment was on the way back. When the sun was diving into the sea, the profile of Mykonos Town stood out against a fiery sky. The windmills of Little Venice, in particular, seemed to dance in a suggestive light, offering a spectacle we really appreciated. A tip for future adventurers: position yourselves on the right side of the boat on the way back—the view of the windmills is truly stunning!
Arriving in Delos, we found ourselves in front of the ticket office. Remember: the boat ticket is only for transportation; the entrance to the archaeological site (€20 per person) must be paid separately. It is essential to have documents for any discounts, and to have them downloaded, because the connection on the island is non-existent.
Once inside, the island embraces you with its past. Although we got lost and went the wrong way, every step was a discovery. Of course, the artifacts are not intact like in Pompeii, but the audio guide brought every stone to life, telling the story of a place that was a crossroads of cultures, a flourishing port for merchants and sailors. The Theater, so imposing for such a small population, testifies to the wealth and importance of the island, and the statues of the lions, although worn by time, maintain a certain majesty.
We also appreciated the visit to the museum, an oasis of shade that holds interesting artifacts. Here we admired the original pieces, such as the lions of Naxos and the fragments of the ancient Colossus of Delos. It was a visit that made history more tangible.
Back in Mykonos, with the sun having set, the atmosphere became more lively. We had dinner in a typical tavern and mentally re-traced the sensations of this day.
The visit to Delos was a worthwhile experience. It is not an excursion to see extraordinary artifacts, but to immerse yourself in an incredibly rich history, to understand that behind the party-centric Mykonos lies a millennial soul. It is a journey through time, an experience that offers a different point of view.
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