Welcome to the shimmering shores of Mykonos, Greece’s personal slice of paradise within the Aegean Sea! This information is your final companion to uncovering the perfect of what Mykonos has to supply. We’re not simply speaking about its world-famous seashores and events; there’s a lot extra! From strolling via charming streets in Mykonos City to discovering hidden culinary spots, we’ve obtained you lined.
We’ll additionally dive into the wealthy historical past and tradition that make this island really distinctive. Whether or not you’re a first-timer or a seasoned customer, our insider suggestions will show you how to 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 high Greek Islands on each traveler’s record!
Prime Issues 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 seek out huge crowds in Mykonos, particularly within the excessive season. But it surely’s one thing that shouldn’t scare you off, as a result of it’s a vacation spot you may strategy from many angles. You’ll be able to nonetheless discover the quieter seashores and the charming cities that, regardless of Mykonos’ small dimension, nonetheless stay off the vacationer path.
So with that in thoughts let’s uncover the perfect issues to do in Mykonos so you may plan your subsequent journey to this wonderful Greek Island.
1. Mykonos City
After arriving on one of many best Greek islands, make a beeline for Mykonos City. Exploring its slim streets lined by whitewashed homes is likely one of the first issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Not solely will it offer you a fantastic style of what Mykonos Island life has to supply, however you’ll start to get your bearings.
Nestled on the western coast of the island, Mykonos City, also referred to as Chora, is the beating coronary heart of Mykonos. As we wandered via 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 (similar to those you see in Santorini) making a placing 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, testing some nice buying within the boutiques alongside Matogianni Avenue, 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 Seashore
Together with your steps full, it’s time to indulge within the seaside lifetime of Mykonos Island. For a comparatively small island, Mykonos has no scarcity of gorgeous seashores, and choosing the perfect one is an unenviable activity. With that mentioned, Paradise Seashore is the proper place to start out.
Paradise and Tremendous Paradise Seashore mix to create a shocking location that additionally occurs to be dwelling to the island’s most enjoyable seaside occasion scene. Within the peak of summer time, the seaside floods with scantily clad women and men bathing within the Aegean solar. Come dusk, the occasion scene goes up a notch with music and tropical cocktails at seaside golf equipment like Jackie O’ and The Tremendous Paradise Seashore Membership.
Outdoors 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 get pleasure from a time out. Be certain to book your sunbed in advance so you could have the perfect seat in the home.
3. Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
A quick drive from the guts of Mykonos City, a go to to the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani is likely one of the high issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Just like the seashores, there’s stiff competitors for essentially the most beautiful monasteries and church buildings on the tiny island. However Panagia Tourliani will not be one to overlook.
Nearly 5 centuries outdated, 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 powerful sight. To not 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 cherished taking within the hand-painted altar display screen and iconography from the late 18th century.
4. The Kato Mili Windmills
One of the crucial spectacular sights in Mykonos is the Kato Mili Windmills backed by the pink sky at golden hour. A quick journey from Little Venice, a row of white and brown windmills dots the shoreline and are a glimpse into the island’s outdated wheat trade.
Again within the day, there have been 20 of those well-known windmills. Whereas solely seven stay, they’re now probably the most well-liked points of interest on Mykonos. Every 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 wonderful pictures. However be sure you return at nightfall for the most effective sundown spots on Mykonos.
5. Little Venice
In Mykonos City, Little Venice is a neighborhood that can 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 goals. Just like the windmills, Little Venice is the place Mykonos’ pure magnificence and man-made opulence meet.
A lot of what you see in Little Venice was developed within the 18th century by retailers. Now they’re trip properties, eating places, and quite a lot of stylish bars which might be excellent for sundown cocktails. Simply be sure you make a reservation forward of time. You too can wander right down to the ocean and let the water lap between your toes as you watch the solar contact the horizon with the windmills within the foreground.
6. Agrari Seashore
Agrari Seashore contrasts significantly with Paradise Seashore. The recognition of Mykonos brings in hearty crowds and seaside events, one thing that may be exhausting to flee in the summertime. However Agrari Seashore 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 Seashore, making a spectacular 5-mile shoreline of nothing however powdery white sand and turquoise sea.
After strolling down a steep, slim path, you’ll step onto the tender sand, the place you’ll uncover a small concession stand and some solar loungers that you should utilize to bask within the heat.
7. Delos Island
Taking a boat trip to Delos Island is likely one of the issues we advocate, particularly if you happen to love Greek historical past. Departing from the Previous Harbor in Mykonos City, it’ll take you about half-hour to succeed in the small Cycladic island.
The historical past of Delos Island goes again over 5,000 years. It’s teeming with outstanding archaeological websites, lots of which kind the crux of Greek myths and legends. Such is the array of historical past, that the whole thing of Delos Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site.
Native mythology says that Artemis and Apollo we born proper right here. However 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 12 months after 12 months. The island’s historical past, nevertheless, reaches its zeniths with Delos’ 5,000-year-old stone huts.
The best way 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 ebook early if you happen to can.
8. Psarou Seashore
A few miles outdoors of Mykonos City, Psarou Seashore is one other well-liked spot for a day on the sand. Lined by upscale seaside bars, a collection of opulent resorts, and among the finest meals on the island, Psarou is a spot to expertise the lap of luxurious.
The seaside is nearly totally made up of solar loungers and rows of seaside umbrellas. You’ll be able to overlook about laying down the towel right here. As an alternative, spend your day taking within the sights and sounds plus the odd superstar if you happen to’re fortunate. Protecting the summer time crowds in thoughts, it’s possible you’ll wish to ebook a solar lounge forward of time.
On the water is the place the true enjoyable is, nevertheless. When you’re settled, it’s time for water sports activities. Go on a scuba diving journey or soar on board a jet ski. Afterward, dine on the iconic seaside bar restaurant Nammos.
9. Armenistis Lighthouse
Little Venice could also be the perfect sundown spot on Mykonos, however it’s not all the time budget-friendly. That is very true if you wish to drink at the perfect bars alongside the coast. For a completely free sundown, make your approach to the Armenistis Lighthouse.
The lighthouse is situated 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 straightforward to get right here additionally, being only a four-mile bus or taxi from Mykonos City.
It’s finest to present 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 within the years previous to its creation.
10. The Previous Port
The event of a contemporary port on Mykonos has taken the main target of its historic Previous Port. Many vacationers don’t even take the time to discover. However if you happen to’re like us, then that’s all of the extra cause so as to add the Previous Port to your Mykonos itinerary.
Like the principle city, Previous Port is surrounded by a maze of slim streets. Amongst them are smiling locals and an genuine assortment of native retailers. With out the cruise ships, the water is left for small fishing boats that come out and in as in the event that they’ve traveled again to earlier than Mykonos was a vacationer mecca.
As you discover the Previous 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 a giant tick in your Mykonos bingo card.
11. Scuba Diving
A couple of days on the shore of the Aegean Sea may 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 a lot of nice scuba diving spots round Mykonos, together with from Psarou Seashore. However for freshmen, Lia Seashore is the proper place to start. Throughout the protected bay you’ll discover calm swimming circumstances with glorious readability as you be taught the important expertise alongside your instructors.
When you’ve accomplished your first dive, you’ll be able to assault some extra websites round Mykonos. Paradise Reef is one for the books. Right here, you’ll discover a prismatic array of coral, starfish, barracuda, and octopus. If you wish to swim round a shipwreck, you may as well try this at Dragonissi.
Mykonos is the proper place to be taught to Scuba Dive because the water is crystal clear and actually calm. This tour is ideal for freshmen!
12. Ano Mera Village
Just like the Previous Port, Ano Mera Village is one other wonderful a part of Mykonos that sees a disproportionately meager quantity of tourists. However whereas most are having fun with the Mykonos seashores, you may 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 properties. Ano Mera offers 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 Fortress.
Discover 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 a ravishing cafe patio, sipping wine and overlooking the Aegean Sea.
13. Church of Panagia Paraportiani
Admiring the beautiful Church of Panagia Paraportiani is likely one of the finest issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. On the shore of the Aegean Sea, the church is a photographer’s dream. It’s an unbelievable mixture of basic white Greek structure, cobblestones, and the brilliant blue sea.
The church is, actually, a a lot bigger complicated that options 5 distinct chapels. Every has its personal peculiar design and domed roof. The oldest, Agios Anargyros, was constructed within the fifteenth century full with a stunning bell tower.
Arriving on the complicated is simple. You’ll be able to merely soar on a bus and get off at Fabrika Central. It’s additionally doable to stroll from Little Venice.
14. Elia Seashore
On the southern coast, Elia Seashore is the opposite half of a sandy shore shared with Agrari Seashore. Elia Seashore is a mixture of facilities and tranquility. Right here, you may benefit from the solar lounges and water sports activities with out dense crowds, with ample further sand to put down the towel.
In the course of the summer time months, there are sometimes seaside events that includes DJs, booze, and loads of dancing. However that apart, it’s a relaxed spot that’s cherished among the many LGBTQ group and even the odd nudist.
If you depart the sand and go for a swim, you’ll uncover crystal-clear waters and an excellent mixture of blue shades. Except for swimming, you may enterprise out on a jet ski, get a view as you para-sail and you may as well attempt your hand at windsurfing when the breeze picks up.
15. Wine Tasting
No time in Mykonos could be full with out exploring the island’s vineyards and sampling the native wines. In any case, Mykonos is likely one of the oldest wine-growing areas on earth.
An exquisite place to do exactly that’s at Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm. Out of your elevated place on Mykonos, you’ll bask within the wondrous views of the vineyards and the coast from the patio. You too can join a winery tour that can take you behind the scenes of this stunning farm.
However Vioma is not only about distinctive wine tasting. Because the title suggests, there’s rather more to this natural farm. Take your time exploring to find conventional Mykonian delicacies corresponding to rusks, hams, genuine Greek salad, and artisan cheese.
If you wish to take a guided wine tour, this one that goes to a locals home is an effective 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 effectively past the mainland. Now, out of the two,000 islands within the nation, round 170 are inhabited.
Right now, the nation nonetheless is determined by the ocean to get from A to B. As you journey round Greece, water taxis and ferries are well-liked, not simply to switch locals and vacationers, however cargo too.
To study 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. Full 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, considered the sundown from the coast, and swam beneath the ocean. However 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 be capable of obtain a spectacular vantage level from which to admire the island. A lot of Mykonos is accessible, however there are numerous nooks and crannies alongside the coast that you just’ll solely be capable of see and attain from the water. With the assistance of a guided kayak tour, you’ll be capable of.
There are just a few 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 retaining our eye out for marine life.
18. Rhenia Island
Rhenia Island is one other of the close by islands it’s best to add to your itinerary. Within the shadows of Mykonos, Rhenia Island is a well-kept secret. Though it has a wealthy human historical past that dates again hundreds of years, at this time, nobody lives right here. It’s now an untouched paradise.
With zero ferry infrastructure, the one approach to make it right here is on a guided tour or private boat. However when you’ve arrived, you’ll don’t have any scarcity of fantastic adventures. Right 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 outlive by themselves. Add on some quaint Twentieth-century church buildings and you may see why Rhenia Island is likely one of the finest day journeys from Mykonos.
19. Boat Excursions
Lots of the finest seashores on Mykonos could be discovered on the breathtaking southern coast. You possibly can spend a day at every, however for a memorable expertise, go island hopping and be a part of this full-day south coast cruise.
Starting at Ornos Seashore, for eight hours, you may relax and slowly make your approach alongside the spectacular coast whereas sipping one Greek wine and sampling ouzo. After visiting a few seashores, you’ll enterprise additional offshore to find 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 Seashore. Final up is the colourful Tremendous Paradise Seashore earlier than getting dropped off proper again at your lodge.
20. Mykonos Archaeological Museum
The Cyclades are akin to an open-air museum, such are the variety of historic websites. However with out having to journey to Delos or Rhenia, you may go to the Mykonos Archaeological Museum.
Historical past lovers and architectural buffs may have a blast as they discover the unbelievable assortment. It is possible for you to to stand up near historical vases, vessels, artworks, and columns.
The museum could also be small however it’s been masterfully curated. Additional highlights embody a shocking mortuary urn that explores the story of the Trojan Battle. For individuals who missed out on exploring Rhenia, try 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 way 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 main ones corresponding to Santorini, Tinos, and Naxos from the native port.
Frequent ferry crossings offers you loads of choices with regards to exploring the encircling islands by yourself. Likewise, there’s an abundance of native excursions that can showcase the fantastic thing about the Cyclades on a yacht.
Santorini is one other well-known vacation spot within the Cyclades and is just a few hours away from Mykonos. You’ll be able to simply take a make a day journey of it with 5 ferries crossing every day. An alternative choice is Tinos, which is simply half-hour by boat and boasts some stunning conventional villages.
Concerned about Santorini? Take a look at our guide on the wonderful island.
22. Bike Tour
Exploring stunning Mykonos on two wheels guarantees to be as memorable an journey as any on the island. At the same time as you develop increasingly aware of the mountainous, sun-soaked Mykonos, there’s all the time extra to see. On a motorcycle, you are able to do simply that with out losing any time.
Becoming a member of an area knowledgeable on a motorcycle tour will show you how to get off the crushed path and away from the island’s most iconic locations. Take the again streets via 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 compelled some bike operators to supply quite a lot of excursions for various health ranges. So there’s no entry barrier for vacationers.
FAQ’s
What’s Mykonos finest for?
Mykonos is finest identified for its unbelievable nightlife, seaside events, and delightful seashores. But it surely additionally gives a captivating outdated city and nice Cycladic structure.
Why is Mykonos so well-known?
Mykonos is legendary primarily for its wonderful nightlife, attracting guests worldwide with its quite a few bars and golf equipment. It’s additionally identified for its picturesque landscapes, that includes iconic windmills, whitewashed buildings, and delightful seashores.
Which is best Santorini or Mykonos?
The selection between Santorini and Mykonos actually is determined by what you’re on the lookout for out of your trip. Santorini is right for these searching for dramatic volcanic landscapes and romantic settings, whereas Mykonos is the place to be within the Greek Islands for the occasion scene.
Is 3 nights in Mykonos sufficient?
Spending three nights in Mykonos will permit you simply to scratch the floor of its foremost points of interest, together with the seashores and Mykonos City. In our opinion 5 days in Mykonos is the proper period of time to benefit from the full scope of what Mykonos has to supply.
Find out how to get to Mykonos
There are two methods to get to Mykonos. Probably the most scenic is by boat. A number of corporations, corresponding to Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star, and Sea Jet, function often between Mykonos and numerous Greek locations.
It will probably 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 supply a extra sturdy journey.
Sea Jet on their smaller catamarans can get you there the quickest. Nevertheless, if you happen to get seasick, bear in mind this journey can get bumpy. We advocate reserving prematurely for all three, particularly Sea Jet.
You’ll be able to fly to Mykonos throughout the summer time months. This isn’t the budget-friendly choice however will show you how to get to the island so much sooner. The day by day flights from Athens final solely 25 minutes.
Finest time to go to Mykonos
Mykonos has an extended span of superb climate. This lengthens the interval vacationers needs to be trying to go to the island. The climate is heat by Might and lasts till October.
Mykonos’ excessive season begins in June and ends in September. Throughout this era, the climate is at its peak, the water is balmy, and the environment is electrical. In fact, this era comes with crowds and better lodge charges. But it surely’s the quintessential Mykonos expertise.
It can save you on room charges whereas having fun with good climate in Might and October, however some eating places and excursions will not be working. Outdoors of this sixth-month span, Mykonos is quiet and with out the hotter climate, it’ll unlikely be the journey you’re anticipating.
The place to remain
With the perfect points of interest lined and a few key questions answered, let’s try some locations to remain in Mykonos that go well with all budgets.
Funds – Elena Hotel Mykonos
Within the coronary heart of Mykonos City and simply 6 minutes from the seaside, Elena Resort Mykonos gives comfort and luxury. Every room has a TV and Wi-Fi, whereas company will benefit from the day by day buffet breakfast and airport transfers.
Mid-range – Harmony Boutique Hotel
Subsequent to the Previous Port in Mykonos City, Concord Boutique Resort balances luxurious and worth. Simply two minutes from the seaside, company will get pleasure from fashionable lodging with sea and sundown views. There are additionally spa and health facilities and an onsite restaurant.
Luxurious – Cavo Tagoo
Additionally in Mykonos City, Cavo Tagoo has a shocking infinity pool with views out to the ocean. Every room options the peak of luxurious, with distinct decor and a few include both a spa bathtub or personal pool. To pamper your self, join their vary of spa therapies earlier than eating at their onsite restaurant.
