Welcome to the shimmering shores of Mykonos, Greece’s personal slice of paradise in the Aegean Sea! This information is your final companion to uncovering the most effective of what Mykonos has to provide. We’re not simply speaking about its world-famous seashores and events; there’s a lot extra! From strolling by way of charming streets in Mykonos Town to discovering hidden culinary spots, we’ve received you coated.
We’ll additionally dive into the wealthy historical past and tradition that make this island really distinctive. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned customer, our insider suggestions will enable you expertise Mykonos like by no means earlier than. So, let’s set sail on this thrilling journey and discover out why Mykonos is likely one of the prime Greek Islands on each traveler’s listing!
Top Things to do in Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is a romantic vacation spot, a spot for honeymoons and rendezvous. Likewise, it attracts party-goers and weekenders trying to blow off some steam. Don’t be stunned to discover large crowds in Mykonos, particularly in the excessive season. But it’s one thing that shouldn’t scare you off, as a result of it’s a vacation spot you’ll be able to method from many angles. You can nonetheless discover the quieter seashores and the charming cities that, regardless of Mykonos’ small measurement, nonetheless stay off the vacationer path.
So with that in thoughts let’s uncover the most effective issues to do in Mykonos so you’ll be able to plan your subsequent journey to this superb Greek Island.
1. Mykonos Town
After arriving on probably the greatest Greek islands, make a beeline for Mykonos Town. Exploring its slender streets lined by whitewashed homes is likely one of the first issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Not solely will it provide you with an important style of what Mykonos Island life has to provide, however you’ll start to get your bearings.
Nestled on the western coast of the island, Mykonos Town, also referred to as Chora, is the beating coronary heart of Mykonos. As we wandered by way of its maze-like, cobblestone streets, we fell in love with the colourful but laid-back environment that defines this iconic city. Mykonos city is like strolling in a postcard, with its white-washed buildings and blue-domed church buildings (identical to those you see in Santorini) making a putting distinction towards the unbelievably blue sky. We have been really blown away.
Navigating the maze of streets is a enjoyable problem and we loved simply getting misplaced, trying out some nice purchasing in the boutiques alongside Matogianni Street, which additionally occurs to be one of many prettiest streets on the island, and sipping Greek espresso at a restaurant. It felt like we have been in our personal film scene.
2. Paradise Beach
With your steps full, it’s time to indulge in the seaside lifetime of Mykonos Island. For a comparatively small island, Mykonos has no scarcity of gorgeous seashores, and selecting the most effective one is an unenviable job. With that mentioned, Paradise Beach is the right place to begin.
Paradise and Super Paradise Beach mix to create a surprising location that additionally occurs to be dwelling to the island’s most enjoyable seaside get together scene. In the peak of summer season, the seaside floods with scantily clad women and men bathing in the Aegean solar. Come dusk, the get together scene goes up a notch with music and tropical cocktails at seaside golf equipment like Jackie O’ and The Super Paradise Beach Club.
Outside of the excessive season, you’ll discover glowing white sand devoid of enormous crowds. Add on some beachfront eating places and it’s a pristine spot to take pleasure in a time out. Make certain to guide your sunbed in advance so you might have the most effective seat in the home.
3. Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
A short drive from the center of Mykonos Town, a go to to the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani is likely one of the prime issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Like the seashores, there’s stiff competitors for probably the most attractive monasteries and church buildings on the tiny island. But Panagia Tourliani will not be one to miss.
Almost 5 centuries previous, the monastery is a sight for sore eyes. The clear stone facade full with a trio of bells and an adjoining bell tower is a formidable sight. Not to point out the arresting marble fountain that options embellished decorations.
Equally transcendent is the inside that has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. We particularly beloved taking in the hand-painted altar display screen and iconography from the late 18th century.
4. The Kato Mili Windmills
One of probably the most spectacular sights in Mykonos is the Kato Mili Windmills backed by the pink sky at golden hour. A short journey from Little Venice, a row of white and brown windmills dots the shoreline and are a glimpse into the island’s previous wheat business.
Back in the day, there have been 20 of those well-known windmills. While solely seven stay, they’re now one of the crucial standard sights on Mykonos. Each windmill is an ideal cylinder that rises out of the bottom with brown thatched roofs. They’re easy but past elegant, a memorable instance of 18th-century Greek structure.
They’re free to go to and make for some superb pictures. But ensure to return at nightfall for probably the greatest sundown spots on Mykonos.
5. Little Venice
In Mykonos Town, Little Venice is a neighborhood that may rapidly steal your coronary heart. It’s the waterfront part of city the place the white homes meet the Aegean Sea, making a imaginative and prescient straight out of your wildest desires. Like the windmills, Little Venice is the place Mykonos’ pure magnificence and man-made opulence meet.
Much of what you see in Little Venice was developed in the 18th century by retailers. Now they’re trip houses, eating places, and quite a few fashionable bars which are good for sundown cocktails. Just ensure to make a reservation forward of time. You may also wander down to the ocean and let the water lap between your toes as you watch the solar contact the horizon with the windmills in the foreground.
6. Agrari Beach
Agrari Beach contrasts enormously with Paradise Beach. The reputation of Mykonos brings in hearty crowds and seaside events, one thing that may be onerous to escape in the summer season. But Agrari Beach is the place to go to expertise the pristine seashores and crystal clear waters of Mykonos with out rubbing shoulders with strangers.
You’ll discover this seaside on the quieter part of the island’s southern coast. The golden sand runs alongside the shore till it connects to Elia Beach, making a spectacular 5-mile shoreline of nothing however powdery white sand and turquoise sea.
After strolling down a steep, slender path, you’ll step onto the mushy sand, the place you’ll uncover a small concession stand and some solar loungers that you should use to bask in the heat.
7. Delos Island
Taking a ship journey to Delos Island is likely one of the issues we advocate, particularly for those who love Greek historical past. Departing from the Old Harbor in Mykonos Town, it can take you about half-hour to attain the small Cycladic island.
The historical past of Delos Island goes again over 5,000 years. It’s teeming with outstanding archaeological websites, a lot of which type the crux of Greek myths and legends. Such is the array of historical past, that the whole lot of Delos Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Local mythology says that Artemis and Apollo we born proper right here. But that’s not all. As you discover, you’ll discover columns which have stood in place for hundreds of years on the aspect of paths shared by pilgrims yr after yr. The island’s historical past, nevertheless, reaches its zeniths with Delos’ 5,000-year-old stone huts.
The greatest means to expertise Delos is to leap on one of many guided boat excursions. This is likely one of the hottest excursions in all of Mykonos, so guide early for those who can.
8. Psarou Beach
A few miles outdoors of Mykonos Town, Psarou Beach is one other standard spot for a day on the sand. Lined by upscale seaside bars, a sequence of opulent resorts, and a few of the greatest meals on the island, Psarou is a spot to expertise the lap of luxurious.
The seaside is sort of fully made up of solar loungers and rows of seaside umbrellas. You can overlook about laying down the towel right here. Instead, spend your day taking in the sights and sounds plus the odd superstar for those who’re fortunate. Keeping the summer season crowds in thoughts, you might have considered trying to guide a solar lounge forward of time.
On the water is the place the true enjoyable is, nevertheless. Once you’re settled, it’s time for water sports activities. Go on a scuba diving journey or leap on board a jet ski. Afterward, dine on the iconic seaside bar restaurant Nammos.
9. Armenistis Lighthouse
Little Venice could also be the most effective sundown spot on Mykonos, nevertheless it’s not at all times budget-friendly. This is very true in order for you to drink at the most effective bars alongside the coast. For a very free sundown, make your means to the Armenistis Lighthouse.
The lighthouse is positioned on the island’s northwest coast the place you’ll have uninhibited views of the colourful horizon together with the even smaller island, Tinos. It’s simple to get right here additionally, being only a four-mile bus or taxi from Mykonos Town.
It’s greatest to give your self loads of time to discover the century-old lighthouse. Mykonos has a wealthy maritime historical past. The lighthouse is devoted to telling that story and remembering the lives misplaced in a shipwreck in the years prior to its creation.
10. The Old Port
The growth of a contemporary port on Mykonos has taken the main target of its historic Old Port. Many vacationers don’t even take the time to discover. But for those who’re like us, then that’s all of the extra purpose to add the Old Port to your Mykonos itinerary.
Like the primary city, Old Port is surrounded by a maze of slender streets. Among them are smiling locals and an genuine assortment of native outlets. Without the cruise ships, the water is left for small fishing boats that come in and out as in the event that they’ve traveled again to earlier than Mykonos was a vacationer mecca.
As you discover the Old Port, preserve your eye out for the well-known Peter the Pelican. This pelican has taken on legendary standing amongst locals and seeing him wherever he’s is an enormous tick in your Mykonos bingo card.
11. Scuba Diving
A couple of days on the shore of the Aegean Sea could have you excited to discover life beneath the floor. The glistening child blue water is each bit as spectacular because the Mediterranean Sea, with as many marine treasures awaiting your arrival.
There are many nice scuba diving spots round Mykonos, together with from Psarou Beach. But for novices, Lia Beach is the right place to start. Within the protected bay you’ll discover calm swimming circumstances with wonderful readability as you be taught the important expertise alongside your instructors.
Once you’ve accomplished your first dive, you’ll be prepared to assault some extra websites round Mykonos. Paradise Reef is one for the books. Here, you’ll discover a prismatic array of coral, starfish, barracuda, and octopus. If you need to swim round a shipwreck, you can even do that at Dragonissi.
Mykonos is the right place to be taught to Scuba Dive because the water is crystal clear and actually calm. This tour is ideal for novices!
12. Ano Mera Village
Like the Old Port, Ano Mera Village is one other superb a part of Mykonos that sees a disproportionately meager quantity of holiday makers. But whereas most are having fun with the Mykonos seashores, you’ll be able to take the time to discover one of many oldest cities on the island, in peace.
The old-time village is centered on a city sq. and boasts Greece’s patented whitewashed houses. Ano Mera gives vacationers with a novel and genuine expertise inside a captivating Cycladic village. The streets are simply as skinny, but with out the bustle. This leaves you with a tranquil townscape that boasts a number of main landmarks, together with Panagia Tourlani, the Paleokastro Monastery, and the Gyzi Castle.
Explore on a whim and don’t be afraid to get misplaced while you go to Ano Mera Village. That’s precisely the way you’ll find yourself on an attractive cafe patio, sipping wine and overlooking the Aegean Sea.
13. Church of Panagia Paraportiani
Admiring the gorgeous Church of Panagia Paraportiani is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. On the shore of the Aegean Sea, the church is a photographer’s dream. It’s an unimaginable mixture of basic white Greek structure, cobblestones, and the brilliant blue sea.
The church is, in truth, a a lot bigger complicated that options 5 distinct chapels. Each has its personal peculiar design and domed roof. The oldest, Agios Anargyros, was constructed in the fifteenth century full with a beautiful bell tower.
Arriving on the complicated is straightforward. You can merely leap on a bus and get off at Fabrika Central. It’s additionally potential to stroll from Little Venice.
14. Elia Beach
On the southern coast, Elia Beach is the opposite half of a sandy shore shared with Agrari Beach. Elia Beach is a mixture of facilities and tranquility. Here, you’ll be able to benefit from the solar lounges and water sports activities with out dense crowds, with ample further sand to lay down the towel.
During the summer season months, there are often seaside events that includes DJs, booze, and loads of dancing. But that apart, it’s a relaxed spot that’s beloved among the many LGBTQ group and even the odd nudist.
When you depart the sand and go for a swim, you’ll uncover crystal-clear waters and a superb mixture of blue shades. Aside from swimming, you’ll be able to enterprise out on a jet ski, get a view as you para-sail and you can even attempt your hand at windsurfing when the breeze picks up.
15. Wine Tasting
No time in Mykonos can be full with out exploring the island’s vineyards and sampling the native wines. After all, Mykonos is likely one of the oldest wine-growing areas on earth.
An exquisite place to do simply that’s at Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm. From your elevated place on Mykonos, you’ll bask in the wondrous views of the vineyards and the coast from the patio. You may also join a winery tour that may take you behind the scenes of this lovely farm.
But Vioma isn’t just about distinctive wine tasting. As the identify suggests, there’s way more to this natural farm. Take your time exploring to uncover conventional Mykonian delicacies resembling rusks, hams, genuine Greek salad, and artisan cheese.
If you need to take a guided wine tour, this one which goes to a locals house is a good way to pattern the wines of the area and have an genuine Mykonos expertise.
16. Mykonos Maritime Museum
The Greeks have a storied relationship with the ocean. In centuries previous, they found new islands and expanded nicely past the mainland. Now, out of the two,000 islands in the nation, round 170 are inhabited.
Today, the nation nonetheless will depend on the ocean to get from A to B. As you journey round Greece, water taxis and ferries are standard, not simply to switch locals and vacationers, however cargo too.
To find out about Greece and Mykonos’ oceangoing historical past, each historical and up to date pay a go to to the Aegean Maritime Museum. Journey again so far as the Neolithic period as you uncover historic paperwork, historical maps, treasures, and reproduction ships from the Minoan interval. Complete the expertise by studying about moments that modified the course of native historical past and the tales of ships which have sunk to the underside of the ocean.
17. Kayak
You’ve explored the charming villages, seen the sundown from the coast, and swam beneath the ocean. But for a recent perspective, it’s time to seize your paddle and kayak round Mykonos.
As you float alongside the crystal clear sea, you’ll give you the option to obtain a spectacular vantage level from which to admire the island. Much of Mykonos is accessible, however there are a lot of nooks and crannies alongside the coast that you just’ll solely give you the option to see and attain from the water. With the assistance of a guided kayak tour, you’ll give you the option to.
There are a number of operators on the island, relying on the place you’re based mostly. We took this guided kayak tour which took us to wild rock formations the place we paddled into grottos, and explored the northern shoreline all whereas protecting our eye out for marine life.
18. Rhenia Island
Rhenia Island is one other of the close by islands it is best to add to your itinerary. In the shadows of Mykonos, Rhenia Island is a well-kept secret. Although it has a wealthy human historical past that dates again hundreds of years, as we speak, nobody lives right here. It’s now an untouched paradise.
With zero ferry infrastructure, the one means to make it right here is on a guided tour or non-public boat. But when you’ve arrived, you’ll haven’t any scarcity of wonderful adventures. Here, the seashores are clear, with none footsteps and the ocean is a dream to swim in.
The island’s human historical past is on full show. Centuries in the past, the island was abandoned and its historical temples have been left to survive by themselves. Add on some quaint Twentieth-century church buildings and you may see why Rhenia Island is likely one of the greatest day journeys from Mykonos.
19. Boat Tours
Many of the most effective seashores on Mykonos may be discovered on the breathtaking southern coast. You might spend a day at every, however for a memorable expertise, go island hopping and be part of this full-day south coast cruise.
Beginning at Ornos Beach, for eight hours, you’ll be able to chill and slowly make your means alongside the spectacular coast whereas sipping one Greek wine and sampling ouzo. After visiting a few seashores, you’ll enterprise additional offshore to uncover Dragonissi Island. Upon arrival, you’ll spot the ocean caves that glisten towards the water.
Afterward, dive into the calm waters of Frangias Bay and have lunch at a seaside restaurant on Kalafatis Beach. Last up is the colourful Super Paradise Beach earlier than getting dropped off proper again at your resort.
20. Mykonos Archaeological Museum
The Cyclades are akin to an open-air museum, such are the variety of historic websites. But with out having to journey to Delos or Rhenia, you’ll be able to go to the Mykonos Archaeological Museum.
History lovers and architectural buffs could have a blast as they discover the unimaginable assortment. You will likely be ready to rise up shut to historical vases, vessels, artworks, and columns.
The museum could also be small nevertheless it’s been masterfully curated. Further highlights embody a surprising mortuary urn that explores the story of the Trojan War. For those that missed out on exploring Rhenia, take a look at the museum’s Purification Pit. This was found in 1898 and included a whole bunch of urns and vessels that harbored choices to the gods.
21. Island Hop
There’s much more to the world round Mykonos than simply Delos and Rhenia islands. The Cyclades are dwelling to over 200 islands and you may entry all the foremost ones resembling Santorini, Tinos, and Naxos from the native port.
Frequent ferry crossings offers you loads of choices when it comes to exploring the encircling islands by yourself. Likewise, there’s an abundance of native excursions that may showcase the fantastic thing about the Cyclades on a yacht.
Santorini is one other well-known vacation spot in the Cyclades and is a number of hours away from Mykonos. You can simply take a make a day journey of it with 5 ferries crossing every day. Another possibility is Tinos, which is simply half-hour by boat and boasts some lovely conventional villages.
Interested in Santorini? Check out our information on the superb island.
22. Bike Tour
Exploring lovely Mykonos on two wheels guarantees to be as memorable an journey as any on the island. Even as you develop increasingly accustomed to the mountainous, sun-soaked Mykonos, there’s at all times extra to see. On a motorcycle, you’ll be able to do simply that with out losing any time.
Joining a neighborhood skilled on a motorcycle tour will enable you get off the overwhelmed path and away from the island’s most iconic locations. Take the again streets by way of charming villages and seize coastal and city views that you just wouldn’t have in any other case seen. As you discover the countryside, you’ll get to know Mykonos on a deeper degree.
The hilly nature of the island has pressured some bike operators to present a wide range of excursions for various health ranges. So there’s no entry barrier for vacationers.
FAQ’s
What is Mykonos greatest for?
Mykonos is greatest recognized for its unimaginable nightlife, seaside events, and delightful seashores. But it additionally gives a captivating previous city and nice Cycladic structure.
Why is Mykonos so well-known?
Mykonos is legendary primarily for its superb nightlife, attracting guests worldwide with its quite a few bars and golf equipment. It’s additionally recognized for its picturesque landscapes, that includes iconic windmills, whitewashed buildings, and delightful seashores.
Which is healthier Santorini or Mykonos?
The alternative between Santorini and Mykonos actually will depend on what you’re searching for out of your trip. Santorini is good for these in search of dramatic volcanic landscapes and romantic settings, whereas Mykonos is the place to be in the Greek Islands for the get together scene.
Is 3 nights in Mykonos sufficient?
Spending three nights in Mykonos will permit you simply to scratch the floor of its major sights, together with the seashores and Mykonos Town. In our opinion 5 days in Mykonos is the right period of time to benefit from the full scope of what Mykonos has to provide.
How to get to Mykonos
There are two methods to get to Mykonos. The most scenic is by boat. Multiple firms, resembling Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star, and Sea Jet, function repeatedly between Mykonos and varied Greek locations.
It can take between three and 5 hours to go between Athens and Mykonos. Blue Star and Hellenic take round 5 hours however have a tendency to present a extra sturdy trip.
Sea Jet on their smaller catamarans can get you there the quickest. However, for those who get seasick, remember this trip can get bumpy. We advocate reserving in advance for all three, particularly Sea Jet.
You can fly to Mykonos throughout the summer season months. This isn’t the budget-friendly possibility however will enable you get to the island so much sooner. The day by day flights from Athens final solely 25 minutes.
Best time to go to Mykonos
Mykonos has a protracted span of superb climate. This lengthens the interval vacationers needs to be trying to go to the island. The climate is heat by May and lasts till October.
Mykonos’ excessive season begins in June and ends in September. During this era, the climate is at its peak, the water is balmy, and the environment is electrical. Of course, this era comes with crowds and better resort charges. But it’s the quintessential Mykonos expertise.
You can save on room charges whereas having fun with good climate in May and October, however some eating places and excursions will not be working. Outside of this sixth-month span, Mykonos is quiet and with out the hotter climate, it can unlikely be the journey you’re anticipating.
Where to keep
With the most effective sights coated and a few key questions answered, let’s take a look at some locations to keep in Mykonos that swimsuit all budgets.
Budget – Elena Hotel Mykonos
In the center of Mykonos Town and simply 6 minutes from the seaside, Elena Hotel Mykonos gives comfort and luxury. Each room has a TV and Wi-Fi, whereas visitors will benefit from the day by day buffet breakfast and airport transfers.
Mid-range – Harmony Boutique Hotel
Next to the Old Port in Mykonos Town, Harmony Boutique Hotel balances luxurious and value. Just two minutes from the seaside, visitors will take pleasure in trendy lodging with sea and sundown views. There are additionally spa and health facilities and an onsite restaurant.
Luxury – Cavo Tagoo
Also in Mykonos Town, Cavo Tagoo has a surprising infinity pool with views out to the ocean. Each room options the peak of luxurious, with distinct decor and a few include both a spa tub or non-public pool. To pamper your self, join their vary of spa remedies earlier than eating at their onsite restaurant.