Delos Island has been on our must-see list for some time, and finally, during our September 2025 trip to Greece, we enjoyed a self-tour of the island. I must say, this site is so grand and has so much history that it is a bit of an undertaking to see everything. We did our best and all in all saw most of what we wanted to see on our self-guided tour of Delos Island.
History
Delos Island is the birthplace of the gods Apollo and also Artemis who were the twin children of Zeus and Leto. In ancient times, Delos was a major religious, commercial, and political hub. Having been inhabited since the third century BC, it was well known throughout the Greek empire. As a matter of fact, It is believed the original inhabitants were people who were expelled from Crete during King Minos’ reign. This Island is also where the treasury for the Delian League was stored for many years and the League also convened here. In 454 BC Periciles removed the Delian Treasury to Athens for safety from invaders. You can read more about the Delian League by clicking here.
Delos island became a renown cult center from 900 BC to 100 AD and also a major pilgrimage site. Apollo, Artemis, Dionysus and many other gods were all worshiped here. During this time, many attempts were made to purify the island to make it worthy of its religious significance. First, it was decided to remove all dead bodies from Delos Island and relocate them to another island. It then became forbidden to give birth or bury anyone on this island in respect to its sacredness. Finally, living on the island was prohibited as to preserve its sacred status.
In 166 BC, the Romans established a port on Delos Island and after the Roman’s conquest of Corinth in 146 BC, Delos became even more of a trade hub for the Roman Empire. Although Delos began to decline around 100 AD, by the 8th century AD Delos Island was abandoned.
Getting Here
On advice from our hotel host, we stopped at the old port in Mykonos where we purchased boat tickets for the next day, actually this is a good thing to do. You can find several booths which sell tickets, guided tours, and also other adventures. We choose one which offered boat tickets only with flexible times for both departing the port and returning. These tickets do not include the admission price of the Island. You pay this fee at the entrance to the Island right after getting off the ferry.
The boat leaves from the Old port. We parked in the parking lot on the north side of the port and walked over to the south side of the port to catch the ferry. Your information for which ferry you board is on your ticket. Just a tip, from our experience, the ferry may leave before the allotted time or after.
Our Self-Tour of the Sacred Island of Delos
Prior to our trip to Delos, I researched the Island, read books and articles, and scanned maps so we could have a comprehensive Self Tour of Delos Island. This way, Steve and I could talk about the island, compare notes and decide ahead of time what we wanted to see and look for those places. We then mapped out these places and made a game plan for our Delos Island Self-Tour. Not that there is anything wrong with guided tours, but we like to take our time, snap a lot of photos, and go at our own speed
To begin our self-tour of Delos Island, we decided to tackle the hardest part first and head up the hill to the top of Mount Kynthos. Since this island is not shaded, and September is still hot, this gave us the opportunity to see this area in the morning before the heat of the day made it miserable to make the ascent. This worked very well for us as this area was not busy at all during this time and we could explore at our leisure.
If you prefer a guided tour, Viator has several different tours of Delos from Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros, depending on what you enjoy. Including a full day boat tour from Mykonos to both Delos and nearby Rhenia Island. Which is what we would have chosen if we did not self-tour the Island.
House of Hermae
This house, built sometime during the 2nd to 1st century BC, was a Roman Residence. You can see the remaining three stories of this once five story home which possibly belonged to an affluent merchant. Named after the god of Hermae as a sculpture in the likeness of Hermae’s head was found among the ruins. This building was quite elaborate for the day and even housed a bathroom. We never did find this house but believe we had walked on the hill above it so it may be in the photos below.
Samothrakeion and Memorial of Mithridates
We looked down on this complex from above. Dedicated to the gods of Samothrace and built around 101 BC. The Memorial of Mithridates was built to honor King Mithridates who was king of the Pontus.
The Terrace of the Foreign Gods
This area Honored non-Greek deities. As Delos was a major trading center, merchants from other places would establish temples and areas here when they traded goods or had business here.
Sanctuary of Syrian gods
Built around 150 BC, this sanctuary gave homage to Atargatis and Hadad, both Syrian gods. Atargatis was a god of fertility while Hadad was a god of rain and storms.
Temple of the Egyptian Gods
The Temple of the Egyptian gods had an open air courtyard. It included various temples and altars to specific Egyptian gods. It also included a small theatre for performances, rituals and dedications to the dieties.
Temple of Isis
Included with the Temples to Egyptian gods, and dedicated to the Egyptian goddess, Isis and built in the 2nd century BC, this temple is one of the best preserved temples on Delos. Isis is the god of fortune and health. She also protects sailors. This temple exemplifies the worshipping of Egyptian overlapping with Greek cults. When we were in Santorini, visiting Ancient Thera, we noticed temples to Egyptian gods there as well.
Temple of Hera
Dedicated to the Queen of the Olympic gods, Hera, this temple was built around 500 BC in the spot of a temple from the 7th century BC. Hera is the goddess of women, family and childbirth and the wife of the god Zeus. She was known to be extremely jealous of Zeus’s consorts and of the children born from those affairs. Although who couldn’t blame her for not liking Zeus’ extramarital activities?
To the Top-Mount Kynthos
Mount Kynthis is the highest spot on Delos. This is where, in Greek Mythology, Leto gave birth to Artemis and Apolo. This is also the site of a small Greek settlement during the 3rd millennium BC
Sanctuary of Zeus and Athena
Located on the very highest point of the island this sanctuary has amazing views. Although all that remains of the sanctuary are a few stones outlining a portion of the base, the views are still amazing. This sanctuary was a very sacred site, built in the 3rd century BC and expanded upon during the 2nd century BC, and was where banquets, processes, and torch races were held.
Sanctuary of Hercules
I sat this one out while Steve explored the way to get here. While planning and mapping out our Self-Guided tour of Delos Island, this was a spot we thought would be fun to see. So once we were here, and did not see it on the path, Steve was determined to find it. Steve noticed a faint unimproved path on our way down the mountain, as he went to explore I told him I would meet him at the bottom. The Sanctuary of Hercules is built into a cave and is where the Cult of Hercules worshiped their god. The large circular stone was once the base of the pedestal on which a statue of the god stood. This Sanctuary is below the Temple of Zeus and Athena, practically part of the mountain itself. Prior to being the Sanctuary of Hercules, it was the Temple of Apollo.
House of the Dolphins
The House of the Dolphins, so called because of the large mosaic floor depicting dolphins in each corner, is truly amazing to see. This mosaic dates to around 150 BC and is unique in that it is signed by the artist, and is only 1 of 2 mosaics signed at Delos. The artist is Asclepiades of Arados, a Phoenician. I am a huge fan of these ancient mosaics and really love to see them. The house of Dolphins was a must see on our self-guided tour and it is one of many homes and buildings with surviving mosaics on Delos Island.
House of Masks
Walking from the House of the Dolphin to the House of the Masks was enchanting as you walk along ancient pathways with occasional columns along the side. The House of Masks is a villa which is believed to have housed traveling theatrical groups. Built between 150 BC and 100 BC this villa was named after the many theatrical masks on the mosaic floor. This elaborate villa housed other mosaic floors as well as a courtyard surrounded by columns which you could enter through the various rooms. We found several floors with mosaics and loved the columns which were still standing as it gave some perspective of how this may have looked.
Theatre
The Delos Theatre is quite a fantastic archaeological site. One of the marvels of the Ancient Delos Theater is it is constructed entirely of marble. This is evidence of the rich and important status Delos Island once held. Like many ancient theaters, this theater, built into a hillside, offers expansive views of Delos harbor, the agora, and the sea. Originally built of wood, building of the stone structure began in 296 BC and was completed in 240 BC. After its completion, this theater could seat 6500 people. Unfortunately, in 88 BC this theater was destroyed by multiple attacks and left for ruin.
In addition a large reservoir collected rainwater which ran down from the top of the theater with channels around the perimeter. The eight large stone arch well openings were used by the community for collecting water.
House of Trident
Most likely a home for a wealthy sea captain or perhaps merchant from Syria and built around 150-100 BC. This elaborate home is to believed to have belonged to a Syrian because of the architecture. More specific, on the tops of the columns are heads of lions and bulls which are recognized as Syrian decorative touches.
House of Dionysus
The House of Dionysus is another building with a beautiful and well preserved mosaic floor. It is one of the largest homes in the Theatre District. Built in the 2nd century BC, this two story home with a central courtyard surrounded by marble columns would have been a residential home.The mosaic floor is now in the Delos Museum as it is an exceptional work of art. Dionysus,has many roles. On Delos he was also worshiped as the god of the grape harvest and is credited for giving the people the gift of the grape vine. He was a very popular god on the Island of Delos and I made sure to seek out this site for my self-guided tour.
House of Cleopatra and Dioscorides
The House of Cleopatra and Discords was the residence of this couple from Athens who lived here in the 2nd century BC. At the entrance to this large home, you will see remarkable replicated statues of the owners, the original statues are in the Delos Museum. Unfortunately, the statues are now headless so we cannot get a glimpse of what the owners looked like. This twelve room home was large and lavish which, along with the life sized statues of themselves, reflected the couples wealth.
Agora of the Competaliast
This agora, or public space, market area, dates to the end of the 2nd century BC. This was dedicated to the god Hermes, which once held two monuments to him in the center of the Agora square. This is not the only dedication to Hermes. There is also an Ionic temple for Hermes in the Portico of Philip.
Portico of Philip V
Dedicated in 210 BC by King Philip the fifth of Macedonia. These marble columns were built for the purpose of lining the grand procession route to the Temple of Apollo along with the South Portico of the Agora. This area was under restoration work while we were here so you have to visualize most of it through the scaffolding.
South Portico in the Agora
Built in the 3rd century BC by Kings of Pergamon, this is the largest building on Delos Island. Orininally 28 columns surrounded this Agora. This building was part of the procession route which led to the Temple of Apollo which is one of the important religious temples of Delos. It was also an area where men would meet, discuss topics of the times, and socialize. There would have been shops where merchants, farmers, and craftsmen sold their products.
Propylaea
This is the gateway to Delos, the main entrance to the Sanctuary of Apollo. It is located at the end of The Sacred Way. Made of marble and surrounded by columns this must have been a beautiful entrance in its day. The Sanctuary of Apollo was a collection of temples, treasuries and religious buildings. On either sides of the entry are marble benches for seating. Just imagine sitting along here back in ancient times.
The Sacred Way
This paved avenue was used as a religious professional route to the Sanctuary of Apollo which was a very important area of Delos Island. Starting near the Sacred Harbor and the Agora of Competialist, the Lions of the Nations, columns, and other statues lined the Sacred Way.
The Oikos and Colossus of the Naxions
Built in the 6th century BC the Oikos of the Naxions was a large building with uncertain use. It was located along the Sacred Way after the Portico of Philip V. Some theorize it was the earliest temple to Apollo at Delos Island. Others believe it was a storehouse for statues, vases, and sacred items. Still another theory is the building was a dining hall. Regardless outside of this building is a large base made of marble on which the Colossus of the Naxians once stood. The Colossus of the Nations was a 9 meter (29.5 foot) statue of Apollo. This statute marked where the Avenue of the Lions ended.
The Sanctuary of Apollo
The major religious site of Delos is the Sanctuary of Apollo. The Sanctuary of Apollo included three temples dedicated to the god Apollo. These are the Temple of the Delians, the Temple of the Athenians, and the Temple of Poros. Also included was the Terrace of Lions, the Treasuries, the Sacred Lake, House of the Naxians, Agora of the Delians, Agora of Theophrastus, the Minoan Fountain, Artemis Temple and the gymnasium and stadium. It is a very large complex and we covered most of it.
The Temple of The Delians
The Temple of the Delians is the largest of three temples dedicated too Apollo within the Sanctuary of Apollo. Paid for by the Delian League building started in 374 BC but did not stop until 315 BC. This temple was never completed as the final decorations and finishing details were never accomplished. This temple is also known as The Temple of Apollo.
Temple of the Athenians
Built between 425-420 BC with white Pentelic marble which was quite expensive in those days. Only the best of craftsmen could work with it. It was part of the Apollo Sanctuary.
Temple of Poros
Dedicated to Apollo and within the Sanctuary of Apollo this is the oldest and smallest temple honoring the god. Inside this 6th century BC temple stood a statue of Apollo.
Agora of The Delians
The Agora of the Delians was the marketplace which can be dated back to the 3rd century BC. As in other agora’s this was the hub of socializing, marketing, trading, and gathering. It would have been surrounded by a stoas and temples. It was located near the Sanctuary of Apollo.
Agora of Theophrastus
This large public square, built during the second century BC, sat between the old port and the Sanctuary of Apollo. Due t this location, it was a busy commerrcial hub. This agora also helped with navigating people from the port area to the Sanctuary area.
Old Port
This port on Delos Island is part of what made Delos such an important commercial and religious hub. Its strategic location is easy to access. This is on your right side when you get off your boat and after you have paid at the entrance.
The Delos Treasury
The Delian Treasury was originally set up to finance the war against the Persians. Located on Delos which had a good accessible harbor. It stayed on Delos from 478 BC until 453 BC when the Athenian Politician moved it to Athens for better security. These buildings held the treasure of the League, monetary and other valuable sacrifices which were contributions from member states of the Delian League.
Lions of the Naxians
These ancient marble lions looked East towards the Sacred Lake and the Sanctuary of Apollo to guard and protect the sacred area. Built and donated by the citizens of the Island of Naxos around 600 BC. There were once 12 lions here and now you can see the remaining replica at the site they were found. The original marble lions stand proudly in the museum.
Establishment of the Poseidoniasts
This was basically an ancient clubhouse for the Syrian merchants and ship owners. A place they could gather as it was their headquarters here on Delos Island. Built in the 2nd century BC it worshipped their deity Baal(Syrian god of fertility, storms and rain) and also the Greek god Poseidon.
Minoan Fountain
The Minoan Fountain is much older than the buildings surrounding it. This well dates back to the 6th century BC. Back in the day, it was an important source of fresh water. Steps lead down to the currently rather murky water, although they are inaccessible.
The Sacred Lake
The now dry Sacred Lake is where in Greek Mythology,Apollo and Artemis were born. The lake was once the first part of the Sanctuary of Apollo and surrounded by temples, columns and statues. In 1925 the lake was reduced to stagnant waters and was drained due too fears of mosquito carrying malaria
The Sanctuary of Dionysus
By far the most unusual sanctuary, The Sanctuary of Dionysus was a large rectangular temple on which two large phallus stood on a base in dedication to Dionysus, god of wine, fertility, good luck and protector from evil. These statues are called phalloi.
Agora of the Italians
The Italians can be traced back to Delos to the 3rd century BC as bankers and merchants. They came from Sicily and Southern Italy. With most of them living in the north area of Delos, around the 2nd century BC they built their own agora. This was a meeting place for the Italians of the community. It was a very fancy and also ornate building and notably the largest building on Delos Island.
Museum
Although not large, the museum on Delos Island is a great addition to any self tour. There are several exhibits from the archaeological excavations that have taken place on Delos over the years. This includes the original lions of the Naxians, frescoes, statues, pottery, and so much more. I really enjoyed this museum plus it was air-conditioned and had a bathroom!
Conclusion
In conclusion, all I can say is this is a fantastic island. The history is so amazing and finding ruin after ruin is beyond mind boggling! I am really happy we did the research ahead of time. Delos Island is a great island to self tour as it is so large, it would be very hard to cover as much as we did with a group. We did not see the gymnasium or stadium but felt we enjoyed a very comprehensive tour and left with a good understanding of what The Sacred Island of Delos was all about. Although we were here for all of four hours and we did not tire of seeing each place.
As always I try to be as accurate as I can but I am not a historian nor an archaeologist! I enjoy researching and visiting historical places. Comments are always welcome and if you have anything to add or correct please let me know!
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You can also check out my other posts from our 2025 trip to Greece and also previous years Itineraries by following these links!
Mykonos One Day Itinerary Sept 2025
Great Places to Eat in Plaka, Athens and Nearby. Updated Sept 2025
Self Guided Tour to Acropolis Sept 2025
Tower of the Wind, Athens Sept 2025
The Roman Forum in Athens, Sept 2025
National Archaeology Museum Athens, Sept 2025
8 Days in Greece, Athens, Milos,Santorini. Oct 2018
10 Days in Greece Athens ,Crete, Santorini Sept 2019
14 Days in Greece Crete, Naxos, Santorini, Athens Sept 2021
2 Weeks in Greece, Delphi, Meteora, Corfu, Santorini Sept 2023
10 Days in the Peloponnese Sept 2024
The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
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How incredible! Totally amazing. I think I am a little envious of your visit.
I truly enjoyed not just visiting here but researching the island as well. Truly amazing!
I can quite imagine! So rewarding to research and find.
It was very amazing. I am still in awe of Delos Island and all that we saw here.
Fascinating! Never heard of Delo Island, but it looks steeped in history. Even more interesting that it’s the birthplace of Apollo and Athena!
It is the most amazing site. Since it is not well known there were few people here and we could wonder on our own without crowding.