Best of Delos & Mykonos
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Port
Mykonos, Greece
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$179.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Begin your day at the pier in Mykonos, boarding a local ferry to the spectacular island of Delos. Located at the center of the Cyclades island group, Delos was perfectly positioned to become an important trade center in the Mediterranean and was a site of great religious significance. According to Greek Mythology, Delos is the birthplace of Apollo, and people came from around the world to this ancient site to pay homage to the god of music, beauty and light. In the early 19th century, a dramatic excavation uncovered beautiful artifacts, mosaics, statues and buildings. Today the island is uninhabited.
Your two-hour walking tour begins at the first monument, the Agora of the Competialists. This open area has a round shrine where offerings were placed. To the left you will see the Sacred Way, lined with marble platforms which once held spectacular statues donated by various kings.
Continue to the Sanctuary of Apollo. At one time, three great temples stood here. In this area you will see the base of the marble Statue of Apollo.
Will you hear a roar as you enter the Lion District? It is named for the famous Terrace of the Lions, where nine elegant marble lions once guarded the sanctuary area.
Upon returning to Mykonos by ferry, board your motorcoach for a scenic drive through the rocky countryside. Visit the charming village of Ano Mera at the center of the island -- home to the lovely Panagia Tourliani Monastery. Originally built in 1542 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, its impressive architecture, whitewashed exterior and colored dome have long charmed visitors from around the world.
Lunch with wine is served at a local venue.
A welcome respite in your day is a stop at Kalafatis Beach, where the deep blue Aegean Sea and golden sand beckon you for a short stroll in the sunshine. Refreshments are available for purchase from local vendor (at your own expense).
A guided walking tour leads you through Mykonos' labyrinth-like streets, past white houses and red-roofed churches. Don't be fooled by its small size -- this is one of the most cosmopolitan towns of the Aegean. But despite the many shops, boutiques and stylish cafés, the town has not lost its charm and the island's strict building regulations have kept its Cycladic architectural style beautifully intact.
Look up and you'll find windmills dotting the landscape. Although no longer operational, they evoke the days when the island was once an agricultural powerhouse. Snap some photos in Little Venice, where narrow rows of brightly colored homes literally sit in the sea. A timeless subject for artists, Little Venice is considered one of the most romantic spots in the Greek Isles.
No tour of Mykonos would be complete without photographing Paraportiani Church.
Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship. As you walk through the streets, don't be surprised if Petros the Pelican, the island's mascot, pops out to say hello.
Notes:
Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.