Delos and Mykonos Day Cruise from Naxos

Delos, the Sacred Island of the Cyclades

Delos is a small, uninhabited island at the centre of the Cyclades and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, listed by UNESCO since 1990. In ancient times it was a great sanctuary of Apollo and later a busy free port, where merchants from across the Mediterranean built houses, temples and markets. No one is allowed to stay overnight, so the whole island remains an open-air museum of marble streets and ruins.

On this Delos day trip from Naxos you have about three hours to explore at your own pace; guiding is not included, so we suggest downloading a map or audio guide before you go. The entrance fee is paid on site. The site has very little shade, and many visitors ask about the best time to visit Delos: in spring and autumn the heat is gentler, while in summer a hat and water are essential.

Highlights of Delos: Lions, Mosaics and Mount Kynthos

Start with the Terrace of the Lions, a row of marble lions dedicated by the Naxians in the 7th century BC; the originals are kept safe in the site museum and replicas guard the Sacred Lake area. Nearby are the agoras and the remains of the sanctuary's temples. In the theatre quarter, lanes climb past the House of the Dolphins and the House of the Masks, whose mosaic floors are among the finest of ancient Greece.

If you have energy, climb Mount Kynthos, a little over 110 metres high, for a sweeping view over Delos, Mykonos and the surrounding islands; allow about 40 minutes there and back. Finish in the museum, which displays statues, pottery and household objects found on the island. With three hours you can comfortably see the main sights without rushing.

Mykonos Town (Chora)

A short crossing brings you to Mykonos, one of the best-known islands of Greece. Its main town, Chora, is a maze of whitewashed lanes, blue doors, flower-covered balconies and tiny chapels, designed long ago to confuse pirates and shelter residents from the wind. The old port is lined with cafés and fishing boats, and near it stands the Paraportiani, a remarkable whitewashed church made of several chapels joined together.

With about four hours of free time you can stroll the shopping street of Matoyianni, visit the folklore or archaeological museum, have lunch in a taverna, or simply sit by the sea. Seafood and vegetarian dishes are easy to find; halal food is limited on the islands, and our team is happy to suggest options. Is Mykonos worth visiting on a day trip? For its architecture and seafront views, absolutely.

Little Venice and the Windmills of Mykonos

Little Venice is the most photographed corner of Mykonos: a row of old captains' houses from the 18th century built right on the water's edge, with wooden balconies hanging over the waves. On a windy day, the sea splashes up against their walls. Just beyond, on a low ridge, stand the famous windmills of Kato Mili, which once ground grain for the island and are now its emblem.

These two sights are a few minutes' walk apart and form the classic Mykonos postcard view. Many visitors ask about the best time to visit Little Venice: in late afternoon the light is warm and the views across the bay are beautiful. Keep an eye on the time and head back to the old port well before the boat's departure, as your host will remind you.

The Crossing from Naxos and Practical Tips

The boat leaves the small port pier of Naxos town in the morning and sails north past the islands of the central Cyclades, with Paros to the west and the open Aegean ahead. The crossing to Delos takes about 45 minutes, and from Delos to Mykonos about 30 minutes. In July and August the meltemi wind can make the sea choppy, so travellers prone to seasickness should take precautions.

Port authorities require the full names, dates of birth and nationalities of all passengers at booking, and you must carry your passport or ID card on the day. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven marble paths of Delos. This shared trip is the simplest way to see Delos and Mykonos from Naxos in one day, with no need to arrange separate ferries.