Delos Greece Travel Guide
Mykonos International Airport (JMK) handles both domestic and international flights, especially during the tourist season. Athens International Airport (ATH) functions as a large international airport with extensive facilities. Travelers frequently fly into Athens and after that take a domestic flight or a ferry to Mykonos.
Mykonos Airport (JMK) is a small airport with basic facilities (cafes, duty-free, car hire counters, taxi stand). Athens Airport (ATH) offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, lounges, car hire companies, and direct access to the city center via train and metro.
Delos does not allow land transportation for visitors. Your land travel considerations will apply to Mykonos, your base for seeing Delos. No internal border crossings exist within Greece.
Renting a car or scooter is common for exploring Mykonos. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed for non-EU license holders, presented alongside your valid national driving license. Roads are narrow, winding, and busy, especially in summer. Parking can be a challenge in The Capital of mykonos. No cars are allowed on Delos; it's explored on foot.
Road quality is not consistent. Some streets are well-paved, others narrow, winding, or poorly maintained. Drink driving laws are strict. Exercise caution due to aggressive taxi drivers and limited visibility on turns. Mykonos Town's lanes are predominantly pedestrianized.
Within walking distance of Chora. Taxis and buses connect to other parts of Mykonos.
Taxis and a SeaBus service connect this port to Chora. Many hotels also offer transfers.
Within the Schengen Area, no passport controls exist between ports, making inter-island travel seamless.
Plenty of local and international companies, including Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Sixt, have offices at the airport, New Port, and inside The Island of the winds. The driver needs to be at least 21 years old (some companies/car types may require 23-25). A valid driving license is necessary, and non-EU license holders must present an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national driving license. A credit card is needed for the deposit. Roads can be narrow, winding, plus lively, especially during summer. Parking can be a challenge in The Capital of mykonos.
Scooter and quad bicycle hire is extremely popular on Mykonos, providing a nimble way to find your path through the island's roads. Many rental shops are available. A valid motorcycle license (A category) is necessary for scooters or motorcycles over 50cc. For 50cc scooters, a B category (car) license might suffice, but an IDP with a motorcycle endorsement offers the safest option option for non-EU citizens. Helmets are legally required for both drivers and passengers. Drive with caution, as Mykonos roads can be busy and winding.
Buses form the main public transport system on Mykonos. They connect Mykonos Town (Chora) with various popular beaches, the New Port, and the airport. Buses provide a reliable and cost-good way to get around the island. Purchase tickets on board the bus from the driver or at kiosks located near bus stops. Single journey tickets typically cost between €1.80 and €2.50. Keep loose change ready. Buses operate frequently during high season (every 15-30 minutes on popular routes), with reduced frequency in shoulder season. Service becomes very limited or ceases entirely in the quiet season.
Taxis offer another way to navigate Mykonos, but their availability is limited (around 30-40 for the complete island), making finding one challenging during peak times. Taxis are typically white or silver cars with a "TAXI" sign on the roof. You can try hailing one, but finding them at designated taxi stands (e.g., The Island of the winds's Manto Square, airport, New Port) or calling via phone/local pre-booking apps is more dependable. Traditional ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft do not operate. Local apps like "iMove Mykonos" or "Mykonos Taxi" offer pre-booked rides, functioning more like private transfer services.
Walking provides the best way to explore Delos and the charming streets of Mykonos Town. The entire archaeological site of Delos is a person on foot-only zone. Walking paths are generally marked, however areas call for navigating uneven ancient terrain. Be leisurely and wear suitable footwear. The Island of the winds (Chora) is largely pedestrianized with narrow, winding cobblestone streets. It is great for walking and exploring.
Cycling on Mykonos has limitations. The island lacks dedicated cycling infrastructure. Cycling on main roads can feel unsafe due to traffic, narrow shoulders, and hilly terrain. If you choose to cycle, exercise extreme caution and consider less busy routes. No cycling is allowed on Delos island.
The archaeological ruins is generally not wheelchair accessible. Uneven, rocky terrain, numerous steps, and unpaved paths create challenges. Limited accessibility might be available at the museum's entrance, but exploring the full site is going to be difficult.
Mykonos has a "SeaBus" connecting Old and New Ports. Water taxis connect some southern beaches (e.g., Platis Gialos to Paradise). No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local ways to travel like tuk-tuks. Dedicated tour boats from Mykonos Old Port provide the specialized transportation to access Delos.
Mykonos Town, with its tight, stone-paved streets and many steps, also poses difficulties for wheelchair users. Newer hotels and vacation spots are more likely to have facilities for accessibility. Public transport (buses) might not be completely accessible. Private accessible transfers would need to be arranged in advance.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing Greece by air or sea beyond standard ticket costs; these are usually included in your ticket price. Departure procedures are straightforward.
Arrive at the port at least 30-AN hour before departure, especially for large conventional ferries or during peak season. Boarding usually starts 15-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. For Delos boats, arrive 15-30 minutes early to ensure boarding before departure.
Mykonos Airport can become very busy during peak travel times. Allow ample time.
Strong winds (Meltemi) could lead to ferry delays or cancellations, impacting departure plans.
For early flights or late departures, pre-booking airport transfers from your accommodation is advisable.
Always double-check flight and ferry schedules closer to your leaving date, as they may change seasonally or owing to weather conditions conditions.
