From Paros: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

From Paros: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

Imagine a day where you get to stand on Delos’ ancient ruins, walk through the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, and float between some of Greece’s most famous islands—all for around $79. This full-day boat trip from Paros is a practical way to see two highlights of the Cyclades in one go. It’s a mix of history, scenic beauty, and lively island ambiance, perfect for anyone eager to maximize their Greek island experience without breaking the bank.

We particularly like how this tour offers ample free time in both locations—three hours on Delos and three hours in Mykonos—giving you the chance to explore at your pace. Plus, the boat ride itself is often described as comfortable and fun, with some reviews mentioning stunning views along the way.

One thing to keep in mind is that guides and entrance fees for Delos are not included, so if you’re keen on a deep dive into the ruins, you might want to book a private guide or arrive early to join a group tour. This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of structured transport and independent exploration—perfect for those who love history, photos, and authentic island strolls.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience combining Delos and Mykonos
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off around Paros
• Free time of three hours at each island allows personal exploration
• Transport is smooth and organized, with ferry and bus transfers
• Not equipped with guided tours—additional guides must be arranged separately
• Good for travelers with a flexible schedule seeking a taste of key Cycladic sights

The Tour Experience: A Deep Dive

Starting Point and Convenience

The trip kicks off with hotel pickup from numerous locations across Paros, a huge plus for convenience. The exact pickup time is communicated a day in advance, helping you plan your morning comfortably. Once you’re on the bus, it’s about an hour’s drive to the port, and then a ferry ride of approximately 65 minutes takes you across the shimmering Aegean towards your first stop.

This seamless transfer process—hotel-to-boat—is one of the tour’s strengths. As some reviews noted, the organization is generally smooth, with pickups and ferries running on schedule. Still, a few travelers mentioned minor hiccups, like late pickups or confusing return instructions, so staying flexible is wise.

The Ferry Journey: A Scenic Ride

The ferry ride itself lasts about 65 minutes. Expect to be surrounded by blue waters and giant sky, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The boat is described as comfortable, although a few reviews mention it can get a bit windy or hot, depending on the weather. Bring sun protection and water, especially in the heat of summer.

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Exploring Delos: Ancient and Sacred

Upon arrival at Delos, you’ll find yourself on a small, uninhabited island packed with ruins and mythic significance. Despite its size, Delos is considered one of Greece’s most sacred islands, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You’ll have about three hours of free time to wander the archaeological site, which includes temples, marketplaces, and statues scattered across the rocky terrain. This is enough time to get a good feel for the place, but if you’re really passionate about ancient Greece, you might want to hire a private guide (not included) to deepen your understanding. Many reviews suggest the ruins are quite spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.

A notable highlight is the hike to the central peak, which offers breathtaking panoramic views—some travelers describe it as “mildly strenuous but worth every step.” Be prepared for little shade, so sunscreen, hats, and water are a must.

Transition to Mykonos: Quick and Easy

After exploring Delos, you’ll hop back onto the ferry for a roughly 20-minute ride to Mykonos. The island’s iconic windmills and vibrant town await you. This leg of the trip is a favorite for many, who love the charm of the cubic Cycladic architecture and lively atmosphere.

Free Time in Mykonos

You’ll have about three hours here—ample time for a leisurely stroll through Mykonos Town. Highlights include the famous Little Venice, narrow alleys filled with cafes, boutique shops, and colorful houses. Climbing up to the hill with the windmills provides spectacular views of the port and sunset, making for fantastic photos.

Some reviews mention that the time in Mykonos is just right, while others suggest it could be a little longer to explore more leisurely. Still, most agree it’s enough to get a good sense of the island’s character.

Returning Journey

The boat departs from Mykonos for the return trip of about 80 minutes, followed by a bus ride back to Paros, ending around sunset. The overall structure allows you to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed, balancing well between guided transit and personal exploration.

The Balance of Cost and Value

At $79 per person, this trip offers a notable value, especially considering transportation, ferry tickets, and hotel pickups are included. Entrance to Delos isn’t covered, so if you’re interested in the archaeological site, you’ll need cash for the ticket—generally worth it, according to reviews.

While there are no guided tours included on-site, many travelers appreciate the freedom to explore at their own pace or hire guides independently. The flexible schedule allows you to prioritize what interests you most, whether it’s the ruins, the town, or just relaxing in the sun.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the smooth organization and stunning views. One noted, “Transportation was straightforward and smooth,” while another appreciated the ample time to explore in both locations. Delos’s ruins are a highlight, with visitors describing the site as “fascinating” and “amazing,” though some wished for guidance or a map in English—something to keep in mind if you want a more educational experience.

On Mykonos, many enjoy the walk to the windmills and wandering the alleys, though a few found the short stay a bit limiting. The boat ride, despite some windy days, is generally seen as fun and scenic.

Considerations and Tips

• Guided tours and entrance fees are extra—planning ahead if you want a guided experience is advisable.
• Comfortable shoes are a must for walking on uneven ruins and cobbled streets.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially for Delos, where shade is scarce.
• If seasickness is a concern, prepare accordingly—the ferry journey can be choppy in windy weather.
• Since the boat is described as comfortable but sometimes hot, consider bringing a fan or cooling towel on warmer days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for history buffs eager to see Delos without a guided tour, photo enthusiasts wanting iconic island views, and budget travelers looking for an organized yet flexible day out. It’s also perfect if you’re staying in Paros and want to make the most of a quick yet comprehensive visit to two essential Cycladic sights.

However, if you’re craving a guided experience or want to spend more time exploring Mykonos in depth, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, travelers who prefer more structured guided tours with included entrance fees might prefer to consider additional options.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Paros to Delos and Mykonos offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Cyclades—blending ancient ruins, vibrant town life, and scenic boat rides. For just under $80, it’s a solid value that balances independent exploration with convenient transportation, making it suitable for travelers who like flexibility and a taste of iconic Greek islands.

You’ll love the stunning views, the opportunity to walk through history, and the chance to experience two very different yet equally captivating islands. It’s a great way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips, especially if time is limited.

While it’s not a guided tour of Delos, the free time allows for personal discovery, and many travelers find the ruins awe-inspiring even without a guide. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes and sunscreen, and you’ll be set for a memorable day in the Cyclades.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from numerous locations across Paros, with exact times communicated the day before.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Paros to Delos lasts about 65 minutes, and the return to Mykonos before heading back to Paros is about 80 minutes.

How much free time do I get on each island?
You get approximately 3 hours in Delos and 3 hours in Mykonos, enough to explore the main sights and get a feel for each place.

Are guides or entrance fees included?
Guides and the entrance fee for Delos are not included. You can hire a guide on-site if you wish, and entrance costs are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a sunhat, water, and cash for the Delos entrance ticket are recommended.

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

Can I book a guided tour of Delos?
Yes, you can arrange a private guide upon arrival or join a group tour before the visit, but these are not included in this package.

What is the boat like?
Most reviews describe it as comfortable, though some mention it can get hot or windy. Bringing extra cooling items can enhance your comfort.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather or strong winds, the tour provider offers an alternative date or a full refund, ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

In short, this trip is a smart choice for those wanting a cost-effective, flexible, and memorable way to experience some of Greece’s most famous islands and archaeological sites. If you’re comfortable with a bit of independent exploration and want to see two islands in one day, it’s a solid addition to your Cyclades adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: