DELOS, the island of god Apollo

If you’re visiting Mykonos and have a curiosity for ancient Greece, a tour to Delos might just be the highlight of your trip. This half-day experience promises an intimate look at one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, believed to be the birthplace of Apollo. Though it’s not cheap—at just over a thousand dollars for a group of up to six—the personalized nature and expert guides aim to make it worth every euro.

What I really like about this experience is the private setting, which means you can explore at your own pace and ask plenty of questions. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide, you’re going to get much more out of this visit than if you simply wandered on your own. On the flip side, the cost doesn’t include ferry tickets or entrance fees, so budget that in. If you’re a history buff or simply want to stand amid ruins that rival Pompeii’s preservation, this tour could be a great fit—especially if you prefer a more tailored, less crowded experience.

Key Points

• Private tour means personalized attention and a flexible pace
• Expert guides share detailed stories and insights, making the ruins come alive
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, easing logistics
• Cost does not include entrance tickets, so plan for those extra expenses
• Limited group size (up to 6) for an intimate experience
• Ideal for those with moderate fitness levels, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved

An in-depth look at the Delos experience

When considering a tour like this, it’s helpful to understand what exactly you’re signing up for. This 4.5-hour private excursion takes you through some of the most evocative parts of Delos, from the well-preserved theater district to the sacred sanctuary of Apollo.

The itinerary and what it offers

Stop 1: The Archaeological Site of Delos
Your journey begins with a visit to the theater district, the jewel of the ruins and arguably the site’s most striking feature. You’ll get to walk among the remains of ancient homes, admire the intricate mosaic floors, and see the water cisterns and marble colonnades that have withstood centuries. The guide will fill you in on how these spaces functioned, making the stones and mosaics much more than just ruins. Expect about an hour here—though, bear in mind, entrance tickets aren’t included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

Stop 2: The Ancient Theater
Next up is the theater that once could seat 6,500 spectators. This is where dramatic performances and gatherings took place. The view from here is pretty impressive, and the guide will probably share stories about the actors and performances that once filled this space. It’s a quick 30-minute stop but packed with historical significance.

Stop 3: The Sanctuary of Apollo and the Slave Market
This part is particularly evocative. You’ll see what remains of Apollo’s temple and the massive statue that once stood here. The huge slave market, a testament to Delos’s prosperity in ancient times, reminds us of how complex and layered this island’s history is. Standing at the site where Apollo’s mythological birthplace is believed to be, guarded by the impressive marble lions, is a moment that tends to stick with visitors. This leg also lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere.

What the tour includes and what it doesn’t

The tour fee covers the guide and private transportation, making your day easier to manage. The comfort of having your own vehicle and guide means you’ll avoid the crowds and feel like you’re discovering the site with friends rather than a large group. However, ferry tickets and entrance fees are not included, so plan for additional costs.

How it feels to be part of this tour

The reviews paint a pretty positive picture of the guide’s knowledge—one reviewer, Linda G, called out Nikolaus’s background as a history teacher as a real plus. Others appreciated the depth of information, which made the ruins much more engaging than just wandering around on your own.

One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and interesting, and you really need a guide for this site,” which is a good reminder that Delos’s significance is best appreciated when explained with context.

The pros and cons from the reviews

The main critique from one traveler was that the overall price felt a bit steep, considering the added costs of entrance and ferry tickets. That said, many found the personalized experience and expert guidance to be well worth it.

Another critical point to consider is the physical aspect—this tour involves walking over uneven surfaces and some moderate physical activity, so it’s not the best choice if you have walking problems or mobility issues.

Is this tour worth it?

If you’re genuinely interested in ancient history, the detailed story behind each ruin, and having a private, relaxed experience appeals to you, this tour offers a lot. It’s especially suited to those who value knowledgeable guides who can bring the site’s history to life. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore independently, you might decide to visit Delos on your own or look for more affordable options.

Who should consider this tour?

This private Delos experience is best suited for history enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of the site and prefer a more personalized visit. It’s also ideal for small groups who appreciate a private, tailored approach. If you’re traveling with others who share your passion for archaeology or Greek mythology, this could be the perfect choice.

However, those with mobility issues or who prefer more active, less structured excursions might want to consider whether the walking involved aligns with their needs.

Final thoughts

Visiting Delos with a private guide offers an intimate look at one of Greece’s most striking archaeological sites. The combination of expert narration, the flexibility of a private tour, and the chance to see key ruins up close makes this a compelling option for history lovers and curious travelers alike. While the cost is on the higher side, many reviews suggest the experience is enriching and memorable, especially if you value guided insights over wandering solo.

Just keep in mind that the price doesn’t include entrance and ferry fees, so budget accordingly. If you’re after a relaxed, detailed, and personalized exploration of Delos, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—just come prepared for a fair amount of walking and some additional expenses.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group of up to 6 people will participate, offering a customized experience.

Does the tour include ferry tickets?
No, ferry tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets to the archaeological site are not part of the package.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am with hotel pickup included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description mentions a moderate physical activity level, so it’s best suited for those with decent mobility. No specific mention of children, so use your judgment based on your kids’ stamina.

What if I have walking problems?
This tour is not recommended for people with walking issues due to the uneven terrain and walking involved.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by Delos Private Tours, with contact info at +306972925378 and [email protected].

Is the tour recommended for mythology fans?
Absolutely. Visiting the site where Apollo is said to be born, and seeing the marble lions guarding it, is a significant highlight for mythology enthusiasts.

If you’re planning a trip to Mykonos and want to understand more about its ancient roots, this private tour of Delos offers a deep dive into history with the comfort of personalized attention. Just remember to factor in the extra costs and physical activity involved, and you’ll be set for a memorable day on this legendary island.