Half Day Delos Tour of Mykonos from the Cruise Ship Port

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $75.17 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours.
• Convenient Pickup: It includes cruise port pickup and drop-off, making it ideal for cruise ship passengers.
• Two Departure Times: Guests can choose from two scheduled start times for flexibility.
• Guided Exploration: A knowledgeable guide leads you through Delos’ archaeological sites, providing detailed insights.
• Includes Boat Transfers: The tour features roundtrip boat tickets from Mykonos to Delos, with a 30-minute crossing.
• Limited Entrance Fees: Entrance to the archaeological site and museum is not included and paid cash on-site.

This half-day tour costs $75.17 per person and provides a seamless way for cruise passengers to experience Delos, the sacred island famed for being the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The tour is designed to fit into a 5-hour window, making it perfect for those on a tight schedule while still enjoying the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll start at the Mykonos cruise port, where port pickup and drop-off are included, and then take a 30-minute boat ride across the waters that offer scenic coastal views.

The tour begins with a quick SeaBus ride from the Mykonos Cruise Ship Terminal into the pedestrian zone of the Old Town. From there, you’ll board a ferry that transports you directly to Delos, setting the scene for an engaging exploration of ancient ruins and archaeological wonders. Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 69 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among cruise travelers.

Practical Details for Cruise Passengers

This shared guided tour accommodates up to 35 participants, focusing on providing an intimate yet lively experience. Guests are encouraged to arrive 60-30 minutes before departure to check in at the Delos Tours kiosk and receive their boat tickets, as entrance fees to the archaeological site and museum are paid cash on-site. The tour offers two departure times, giving flexibility for various cruise schedules.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to the walking involved around the archaeological site and on uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and travelers should bring water, sunscreen, camera, and some local currency for souvenirs or entrance payments.

From the Mykonos Old Town to the Sacred Island

The tour’s first stop involves a 10-minute SeaBus ride from the Mykonos port to the pedestrian zone of the Old Town, an experience that offers unique coastal views. Afterward, the boat departs for Delos, where the real adventure begins. The 30-minute ferry ride is smooth and offers glimpses of the surrounding Aegean scenery.

Once on Delos, the guide introduces you to the island’s famous archaeological sites. The exploration takes around 3 hours, giving ample time to walk through narrow streets lined with mosaic floor villas, marvel at the marble columns of ancient temples, and view iconic monuments such as the House of Dionysus and the Roman amphitheater. The main street features a lively market area and the sanctuary zone, where the Stoa of Phillipe, the Propylaia, the Colossus of the Naxians, and the Temple of Apollo await discovery.

Insights into the Guided Tour on Delos

The guide plays an essential role in bringing the ruins to life. Although the specific guide name isn’t provided, reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who share entertaining stories about the island’s history and mythology. One review mentions a guide who is an archaeologist with tons of stories, keeping even children engaged.

The wireless tour guide system helps guests hear clearly, though loss or damage of equipment incurs a €150 penalty, so care is advised. The guide’s storytelling style is generally praised for being informative and passionate, making the ancient ruins more meaningful.

Highlights of the Archaeological Site of Delos

The archaeological site on Delos offers a wealth of well-preserved monuments. Visitors see marble columns, mosaic floors, and intricately decorated villas like the House of Dionysus. The Theater of Delos is another highlight, showcasing the island’s importance as a cultural hub in antiquity.

Other notable sights include the Colossus of the Naxians, a giant statue once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Temple of Apollo, the island’s religious centerpiece. The site’s urban layout and ruins reveal both religious and commercial significance in ancient Greece.

Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers cruise port pickup and drop-off, roundtrip boat tickets, skip-the-line entry to the archaeological site, and a guide who leads you through the ruins. All taxes and safety equipment are included to ensure a smooth experience.

However, entrance fees to the archaeological site and museum are paid cash on arrival and are not included in the price. Guests also have the option to request transfer services to/from their hotel—at their own expense, approximately €12 per person each way. Food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages are not included, so bringing snacks and water is advised.

The Pacing and Duration of the Tour

The total duration of around 5 hours includes travel time and exploration. You get about 3 hours to wander the archaeological site, which is ample time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The boat rides add to the overall experience, providing scenic moments between landings.

Guests should be prepared for moderate walking and the potential heat, especially during summer months when waiting times could extend if arriving early or late. The tour’s pacing is generally praised for being well-organized, with timely departures and clear instructions.

Crowd Levels and Group Dynamics

While the tour can accommodate up to 35 participants, some reviews note large group sizes—up to 30+ people—which can make it harder to hear the guide or fully enjoy the experience. Ear pieces are provided, but in larger groups, audio quality might suffer, and some guests find it less intimate.

The guide’s effort to manage the group includes trying to offer free time and provide shade when possible. The size of the group is a consideration for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

Value for Money and Booking Tips

At $75.17, this tour offers a competitive price considering it includes boat transfers, skip-the-line tickets, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially appealing to cruise passengers who want a convenient, all-in-one excursion to explore Delos’ history without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets.

Booking in advance is advisable, with the average booking window around 69 days. The tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and who enjoy guided walks through historical sites. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are essential.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Half Day Delos Tour from Mykonos delivers a well-organized and accessible experience, perfect for cruise travelers eager to see Delos’ archaeological treasures. The boat rides, expert guides, and comprehensive site visits combine to make it a value-packed option.

The main limitations include large group sizes in some instances and the additional cost for entrance fees, which are paid cash on-site. However, the scenic boat transfers and detailed guided tour mean that most visitors will find this tour offers a memorable glimpse into the island’s mythological and historical significance.

If you appreciate guided excursions that mix history, scenery, and ease of access, this tour is a solid choice—especially for cruise guests who want a hassle-free way to explore Delos’ UNESCO-listed ruins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and standing, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to the archaeological site and museum are not included and need to be paid cash on arrival.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, camera, and some local currency for souvenirs or entrance fees.

How early should I arrive?
Guests should arrive 60-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the Delos Tours kiosk to check in and collect their tickets.

Can I request a transfer to my hotel?
Transfer services are available on request at your own expense, roughly €12 per person each way.

What if my cruise ship is delayed?
Refunds are not issued for missed departures due to late or non-arrival of the cruise ship; timely arrival is essential.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility information is not specified; moderate physical fitness is required, and uneven terrain on Delos may pose challenges.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, but some reviews note groups can be as large as 30+, which might affect the experience.

What is the guide’s expertise?
Guides are knowledgeable, with some being archaeologists, providing engaging, detailed explanations of the site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.