In mythology, Leto gave birth to Apollo and Artemis on this tiny, treeless island — and for centuries that made Delos one of the most sacred places in the Greek world. Today the entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage site: no hotels, no tavernas, just ruins, lizards and light.

What not to miss

The Terrace of the Lions is the image you know from photographs, but give equal time to the mosaic floors of the Roman quarter — the House of Dionysus and the House of the Dolphins are astonishingly intact. If your legs allow, the 20-minute climb up Mount Kynthos rewards you with a view over the whole sacred harbour.

Practicalities

Boats leave from Mykonos Town’s old port in the morning and return in the early afternoon; the crossing takes about 30 minutes. There is almost no shade on Delos, so bring a hat, water and good shoes — and take the earliest boat in summer.

Prefer to skip the crowds entirely? Our Delos & Rhenia cruise pairs a guided visit to the ruins with a swim stop in Rhenia’s turquoise coves — you can book it directly from the Activities section.