It is technically possible to visit the Greek island of Delos in winter, but special arrangements are required. And they’re not easy.
Where is Delos?
Delos is an island in the Cyclades chain, Greece. It brims with history, and was regarded as sacred in the ancient world. According to legend, this was the birthplace of the Olympian god Apollo.
These days, Delos is preserved as an archaeological site. It is not possible to stay overnight on Delos, but it does make for an excellent day trip from Mykonos.
Delos opening hours
However, it is only an excellent day trip from Mykonos during the warmer months. According to the Directorate of Archaeological Museums, Exhibitions and Educational Programs, Delos is not officially open year-round.
From the start of April to the end of October, the opening hours at the Delos archaeological site are 08.00 to 20.00. In November, these opening hours are reduced somewhat – it’s 08.00 to 16.00.
5 great Mykonos experiences to book
- 🚐 Small group highlights tour: Take a small group Mykonos highlights tour from the cruise port and avoid the chaos of large coach groups.
- 🏍️ Explore by ATV: Discover hidden beaches and backroads the fun way on an all-terrain vehicle.
- ⛵ Catamaran cruise: Relax on a catamaran cruise with meals, drinks and transport included.
- 🏛️ Delos day trip: Visit one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites on a half-day guided tour to Delos.
- 🍽️ Food tasting tour: Sample traditional dishes and local flavours on a Mykonos food tour.
Visiting Delos in winter
Between December and the end of March, though, Delos is closed to visitors. Or at least it is for most visitors.
Visits can be arranged on written request, a process that is clearly aimed at researchers rather than the casual tourist. Even if you can arrange permission, you’ve then got to sort out transport. Given that the ferry isn’t running between December and March, you might as well forget about visiting Delos during these months.
Why book the Delos guided tour from Mykonos?
- 🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece—the sacred island of Delos.
- ☀️ Birthplace of Apollo: Walk through the legendary birthplace of the Greek god of light and his twin sister Artemis, immersing yourself in ancient history and myth.
- 🦁 Terrace of the Lions: See the iconic marble lions dedicated to Apollo, along with remarkably preserved mosaics in the House of Dionysus and the House of Cleopatra.
- 📜 Expert Guided Insights: Benefit from a professional guide who brings the ruins to life, explaining the complex history of what was once a thriving cosmopolitan trade center.
- ⛴️ Seamless Boat Transfer: Enjoy a stress-free half-day trip with round-trip boat transportation from Mykonos included, making it the easiest way to visit this uninhabited island.
Travel from Mykonos to Delos
Between April and November, Delos Tours runs a Mykonos to Delos ferry service several times a day. Return tickets cost €25 at the time of writing.
However, it might be wiser to book a half day Delos tour from Mykonos Old Port. Going with a guide will bring the ruins to life, and help you understand the island’s history.
There are also Delos tours from the Mykonos cruise terminal aimed at cruise passengers. The cruise terminal is 2.5km from Mykonos Town.
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