From Paros: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

Traveling around the Cyclades means encountering some of Greece’s most iconic and beautiful islands, and this full-day boat trip from Paros to Delos and Mykonos promises a mix of ancient history and lively scenery. We’ve looked into it to give you a balanced view—what makes it worth your time, and what’s worth considering before booking.

Two things we really like about this tour: First, the chance to walk through Delos, a UNESCO site packed with archaeological treasures and a peaceful, almost sacred vibe. Second, the time allocated in Mykonos, giving you a taste of its famous charm—perfect for a quick exploration of its narrow streets and windmills.

But, a key point to keep in mind is the short amount of time in each spot — 3 hours on each island— which might feel rushed if you’re eager to explore every corner. This tour suits travelers who want a quick, well-organized taste of both islands without the hassle of planning separate trips. It’s especially great if you’re looking for an easy, stress-free way to cover these highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Focuses on Delos’ archaeological sites and Mykonos’ charming town.
• Affordable price: Around $79 for a full day, offering good value considering the transport and island visits.
• Time in each location: Around 3 hours, enough to see the main sights but possibly too brief for deep exploration.
• Comfortable transport: Includes hotel pickup, ferry rides, and a bus, making logistics straightforward.
• Limited guided support: No guided tour included on the islands, so you might want to pre-book a guide or explore on your own.
• Weather considerations: The trip can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are poor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Full-Day Trip

This tour is a straightforward way to tick off two major Cyclades destinations without the stress of planning logistics yourself. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Paros, everything is arranged, from transportation to the ferry rides, making it a smooth experience.

Pickup and Transportation

The trip begins with hotel pickup from a variety of central locations in Paros—if your hotel is listed among the options, you’re good to go. Expect a bus or coach ride of about an hour, followed by an approximately 65-minute ferry crossing to Delos. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering scenic views and a chance to relax before the island explorations.

Visiting Delos — The UNESCO Site

Once on Delos, you’ll have around three hours to explore. Despite its tiny size, this uninhabited island is packed with archaeological sites and ruins, considered one of the most sacred spots in ancient Greek religion as the birthplace of Apollo.

You can wander freely, or if you prefer, hire a private guide upon arrival (note: guided tours and entrance fees aren’t included). Many reviews mention the value of a guide, especially to better understand the significance of the ruins and to navigate the site efficiently.

A standout feature is the walk up to the hill with the windmills, which are an iconic symbol of Mykonos but are also accessible here on Delos. The views from the top are reportedly spectacular, and the walk is manageable if you wear comfortable shoes—something many travelers emphasize.

Free Time in Mykonos

After returning to the boat, you’ll cruise to Mykonos for about three hours of free time. Most visitors use this window to stroll through Mykonos Town, famous for its white cubic houses, narrow alleys, and lively atmosphere.

Popular spots include Little Venice, where you’ll find cafes and bars right along the sea, and the hill with the windmills, offering panoramic views of the island. Reviewers highlight that this is enough time to grab a bite, explore, and snap some photos but not enough for a full day of sightseeing.

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Return Journey

The boat departs from Mykonos and heads back to Paros, with an 80-minute ferry ride, followed by a bus transfer of about an hour. Expect to arrive back in Paros in the early evening, giving you ample time for dinner or a relaxing evening.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Pickup in Paros: Multiple options available, including major hotels and landmarks, ensuring convenience.
• Bus/coach transfer: About one hour, setting the tone for a relaxed start.
• Ferry ride to Delos: 65 minutes of scenic cruising, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and views.
• Delos exploration: 3 hours, enough to see key archaeological sites and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
• Ferry from Delos to Mykonos: 20 minutes, a quick hop across the water.
• Free time in Mykonos: 3 hours to explore the town, walk the alleys, and see the windmills.
• Return ferry and bus: About 2.5 hours total, bringing you back to Paros in the evening.

What Do Travelers Say?

Many reviews praise the smooth logistics and value for money. One traveler mentions, “Great trip, enough time to explore both places, and the transportation was straightforward.” Others love the stunning views and the chance to walk among ruins at Delos, calling it “a remarkably fascinating island of ruins.”

A common tip is to pre-book a guide at Delos to enhance understanding, as the tour itself doesn’t include guided walks. Several reviewers note that timing is tight, especially in Mykonos, where the narrow streets can be crowded with cruise ship tours, making wandering a bit hectic.

Some travelers mention the boat ride can be rough due to high winds or turbulence, so if seasickness is a concern, prepare accordingly. Also, the boat is said to be hot inside, despite the advertisement claiming A/C, so wearing light clothing and bringing water is advised.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Convenience: Hotel pickup, ferry, and transfers included.
• Cost-effective: At $79, it’s a reasonable price for a full-day tour covering two iconic islands.
• Flexible: Free time in both Delos and Mykonos allows for personal exploration.
• Stunning sights: The archaeological ruins and the views from the windmills are unforgettable.
• Good reviews for organization: Most travelers found the trip well-organized and smooth.

Cons

• Limited time: Only 3 hours in each location might not satisfy those wanting to explore in depth.
• No guided tours included: To get the most out of Delos, pre-booking a guide is recommended, which adds to the cost.
• Potential crowds and high prices in Mykonos: As a popular destination, Mykonos can be busy and pricey, especially during peak season.
• Weather dependency: Bad weather or strong winds could mean cancellations or changes.
• Boat discomfort concerns: Some mention the boat being hotter than expected and turbulence during windy days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a stress-free way to see Delos’ archaeological sites and get a quick taste of Mykonos’ charm, this tour hits the mark. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a budget-friendly, organized day without the hassle of booking multiple transport tickets.

It’s particularly suited for those who don’t mind tight schedules and prefer to enjoy highlights rather than deep dives into each location. It might not be ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth historical experience or plenty of time to relax on the beaches.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat trip from Paros to Delos and Mykonos offers a practical and enjoyable way to see two of the Cyclades’ most celebrated islands in one go. The experience balances archaeological wonder with island charm, all wrapped up in a package that’s both affordable and convenient.

Travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized outing and are okay with the limited time in each spot will find this tour a good fit. Just remember to pre-arrange a guide for Delos if you want to fully understand the ruins, and bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

While it’s not the best option for those seeking extensive exploration or a leisurely pace, it’s perfect for a quick hit of Greek island magic. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and want to maximize your island visits in one day, this trip could very well be worth your while.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is included from selected central locations in Paros. You will receive details about your specific pickup point and time.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry rides are about 65 minutes from Paros to Delos and 20 minutes from Delos to Mykonos, with additional ferry time on the return trip.

How much time do we spend on each island?
You get approximately 3 hours on Delos for sightseeing and an additional 3 hours in Mykonos for exploring the town and windmills.

Are guided tours included on Delos?
No, guided tours are not included but can be hired on-site at extra cost. Many reviews suggest pre-booking a guide for a richer experience.

Is swimming possible during this trip?
Swimming in Delos isn’t permitted, but you can swim on the beaches of Mykonos during your free time.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water. The boat can be warm inside, so dress lightly.

Can I cancel this trip?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this trip suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and standing for periods, but not specifically tailored for children.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather or strong winds may lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with a full refund offered.

How do I know what time I’ll be picked up?
You will receive an email a day before your trip with your exact pickup time and location.

If you’re looking for a balanced, easy way to experience the highlights of Delos and Mykonos without the fuss of planning, this tour is worth considering—just keep your expectations aligned with the brief amount of time in each spot.

You can check availability for your dates here: