Itinerary Suggestions: Delos

Time-Based Itineraries

Short on time? Focus on Mykonos for a swift, memorable visit.

Delos is too time-consuming for a true layover visit. If you have only 24 hours on Mykonos, concentrate your time on exploring Mykonos Town (Chora). Wander through its labyrinthine streets, visit iconic landmarks like Little Venice and the Windmills, enjoy a traditional Greek meal, and experience the lively nightlife or a sunset view from a waterfront bar.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Day 1: Arrive on Mykonos, check into accommodation, and explore Mykonos Town. Enjoy dinner and nightlife.
Day 2 (Delos Focus): Take an early morning ferry to Delos. Dedicate 4-5 hours to the archaeological site and museum. Return to Mykonos for relaxation and evening activities.
Day 3: Enjoy a Mykonos beach (e.g., Ornos or Platis Gialos), relax by the sea, and prepare for departure.

For longer stays, immerse yourself in the Cycladic experience.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A full week allows for deep exploration of Mykonos and Delos.

Weekly Highlights

Day 1-2: Arrive Mykonos, explore Mykonos Town. Enjoy local atmosphere and dining.
Day 3: Full-day Delos excursion. Consider an optional Rhenia swimming trip.
Day 4-5: Beach hopping on Mykonos, water sports, and beach clubs.
Day 6: Explore inland Mykonos, visit Ano Mera and Monastery of Panagia Tourliani.

Day 7: Final souvenir shopping or relaxing morning before departure.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Extend your adventure to other Cycladic islands for a diverse experience.

Island Hopping

Extend the one-week Mykonos/Delos itinerary by adding 5-7 days on other Cycladic islands.
Combine Mykonos with Naxos, Paros, or Santorini, exploring their unique attractions, history, and beaches. This yields a diverse and comprehensive experience of the Cyclades.
Use ferries to travel between islands.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For extended periods, consider other islands for a more relaxed pace.

Extended Visits

Long-term stays are not common for Delos itself due to its uninhabited status.
For longer stays in the region, consider renting a villa or apartment on Mykonos or a nearby island like Naxos.
Naxos often features a lower cost of living and a more diverse experience.
This affords a slower pace and immersion into local life.

Interest-Based Routes: Historical and Heritage Focus

Immerse yourself in ancient history and cultural depth.

History Immersion

Dedicate ample time on Delos (5+ hours, including the museum).
Consider hiring a private guide or using a detailed Delos guidebook to fully absorb the site's story.
Explore Mykonos Town's historical buildings, churches, and museums, like the Aegean Maritime Museum.
If time permits, consider a day trip to the archaeological sites on Paros or Naxos.

Interest-Based Routes: Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor the flavors of the Cyclades.

Local Delicacies

Focus your culinary exploration on Mykonos. Seek out traditional tavernas and try local specialties like Kopanisti cheese and Louza cured pork.

Cooking Classes

Take a Greek cooking class on Mykonos to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. This offers a connection to local cuisine.

Market Exploration

Explore local markets for fresh produce and regional delicacies. Engage with vendors to discover unique ingredients.

Planning Ahead:

Consider booking popular tours or restaurants in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your desired experiences.

Tailor your trip to fit your budget, from backpacking to luxury.

Budget-Based Plans: Backpacker's Guide

Experience the Cyclades on a minimal budget.

Cost-Saving Tips

Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses on Mykonos.
Rely on public buses for transportation.
Eat gyros and street food for affordable meals.
Bring your own water and snacks to Delos to save money. Choose the independent ferry without a guided tour.

Use a guidebook or online resources for self-guided exploration.

Budget-Based Plans: Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Comfort and convenience without excessive expense.

Balanced Travel

Stay in boutique hotels or comfortable apartments.
Eat at mid-range tavernas and restaurants, balancing traditional Greek cuisine with some international options.
Take the combined Delos & Rhenia tour with a guide for a comprehensive experience.
Enjoy some beach clubs for a taste of Mykonos's famous atmosphere.

Budget-Based Plans: Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in an elevated travel experience.

Premium Travel

Stay at a luxury resort or private villa on Mykonos, opting for properties with private pools or exclusive beach access.
Arrange private transfers for all your transportation needs.
Book a private yacht tour to Delos and Rhenia with a private guide for an exclusive and tailored experience.
Dine at high-end restaurants and exclusive beach clubs.

Enjoy concierge services and personalized itineraries.

Budget-Based Plans: Value-Focused Recommendations

Maximize your experience while managing costs.

Smart Saving

Travel in the shoulder season for better prices on flights, ferries, and accommodation.
Book accommodation with a kitchenette for some self-catering, thereby saving on meal costs.
Balance expensive meals with affordable street food options.
Prioritize the Delos visit as the main paid attraction, and explore Mykonos's free attractions like its town and windmills.

Interest-Based Routes: Adventure and Outdoor Activities

For those seeking excitement and natural exploration.

Thrill-Seeking

Climb Mount Kynthos on Delos for its rewarding views.
On Mykonos, participate in water sports like windsurfing, jet skiing, or paddleboarding at organized beaches.
Consider a boat trip to the remote coves of Rhenia for swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters.
Many tours combine these activities for a full day of adventure.

Interest-Based Routes: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Tailoring your trip for an enjoyable family experience.

Mykonos for Families

Stay near family-friendly beaches like Ornos or Platis Gialos, which have calm, shallow waters and amenities.
Look for hotels with family rooms, pools, or kids' clubs.
Enjoy casual tavernas with diverse menus.

Delos for Kids

Adapt the Delos trip for younger children by planning a shorter visit (2-3 hours on site).
Emphasize the stories of gods and myths to capture their imagination.
Combine it with a fun swimming trip to Rhenia to make the day more engaging.

Interest-Based Routes: Art and Architecture Emphasis

Explore the unique artistic and structural heritage.

Architectural Gems

Focus on the unique ancient architecture and intricate mosaics on Delos, notably in the residential quarters.
Explore the distinctive Cycladic architecture of Mykonos Town, with its whitewashed cubist houses, narrow alleys.
Visit the iconic Panagia Paraportiani church.
Seek out local art galleries and studios on Mykonos.

Interest-Based Routes: Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Connect with ancient energies and find inner peace.

Mind and Body

Delos features an unique spiritual connection due to its mythical status as Apollo's birthplace.
Focus on the meditative aspects of walking among the ancient ruins.
On Mykonos, find hotels with spa facilities or yoga classes for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Explore wellness retreats available on the island.

Seasonal Specialties: Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Planning Off-Season

If you visit in the off-season, verify opening hours for Delos and ferry schedules carefully, as they are significantly reduced or suspended. Many online platforms show limited availability.

Benefits of Quiet Season

Enjoy a quieter, more local Mykonos without the summer crowds. This period fits those seeking solitude and quiet reflection.

Seasonal Considerations:

Summer offers the full range of ferry services to Delos, with all archaeological site areas open. Combine your visit with lively beach activities on Mykonos or swimming at Rhenia. Winter Mykonos and Delos are very quiet, with far fewer tourists. Potential for site closures due to weather. No major festivals occur on Delos itself.

Itinerary Suggestions