The Traveling Taylors

We booked a quick half-day trip to Delos while staying in Mykonos, thinking it would be simple and relaxing. Spoiler: it’s totally worth it—but there are a few things we wish we’d known beforehand. If you’re planning a day trip to Delos from Mykonos, don’t make these 7 common mistakes that can turn your adventure into a hot, dusty regret.

1. Skipping the Early Ferry (And Melting by Noon)

Delos gets brutally hot by midday—and there’s virtually no shade. Aim for the first ferry (usually around 9 AM) to beat both the crowds and the heat. Because you’ll be outside for hours visiting landmarks and viewpoints, bringing UV-protective sunglasses like these can help keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.

Pro Tip: Book your ticket online in advance, especially in summer.

2. Forgetting Water, Snacks, and Shade

Delos has zero amenities. No food stands, no vending machines, and no shaded rest stops. Bring:

• At least 1 liter of water per person
• A sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen – Since you’ll be spending a long time outdoors, a lightweight baseball cap like this one can help protect your face from the sun.
• Light snacks (nothing messy)

Quick Tip: Freeze a water bottle the night before—it’ll stay cold longer.

3. Wearing the Wrong Shoes

This island is 100% rugged terrain—uneven stones, dusty trails, and crumbly steps so Comfortable shoes are essential and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing.
Don’t even think about flip-flops.

What to Wear: Closed-toe walking shoes or trail sandals with grip.

4. Not Bringing a Map (You’ll Get Lost in the Ruins)

The archaeological site is massive and only partly signposted. If you don’t have a map or offline app, you’ll miss key sights like the House of Dionysus or the Terrace of the Lions.

Try This: Download the island map ahead of time or pick one up at the entry gate.

5. Skipping the Museum (It’s Small but Mighty)

Most visitors rush through the open-air ruins and forget about the onsite museum. But it holds the original lion statues, mosaics, and smaller artifacts that tell Delos’s story. For travelers who want high-quality photos and videos during their trip, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a popular choice among content creators and travel photographers.

Heads-Up: The museum may have limited hours—check them before you go.

6. Underestimating the Time You’ll Need

A common mistake: booking a ferry with just 1.5 hours to explore. Delos deserves at least 2.5 to 3 hours, especially if you want to climb Mount Kynthos or visit the museum.

Best Bet: Take a morning ferry and return mid-afternoon to explore at your pace.

7. Forgetting You Can’t Stay Overnight

No hotels. No campsites. Not even staff stay overnight. If you miss the last ferry back to Mykonos (usually around 3 PM), you’re stuck—literally.

Important: Always double-check the last return ferry time before you go exploring.

Make Your Delos Day Trip One to Remember

Delos is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Greece—and just a short hop from Mykonos. With a little planning (and the right shoes), it can be a highlight of your Cycladic adventure.