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 one of the best 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 by charming streets in Mykonos City to discovering hidden culinary spots, we’ve received 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 make it easier to expertise Mykonos like by no means earlier than. So, let’s set sail on this thrilling journey and discover out why Mykonos is without doubt one of the high Greek Islands on each traveler’s checklist!
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 seeking to blow off some steam. Don’t be shocked to seek out large crowds in Mykonos, particularly within the excessive season. However it’s one thing that shouldn’t scare you off, as a result of it’s a vacation spot you may method from many angles. You may 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 one of the best issues to do in Mykonos so you may plan your subsequent journey to this superb Greek Island.
1. Mykonos City
After arriving on probably the greatest Greek islands, make a beeline for Mykonos City. Exploring its slim streets lined by whitewashed homes is without doubt one of the first issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Not solely will it offer you an excellent 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 called Chora, is the beating coronary heart of Mykonos. As we wandered by its maze-like, cobblestone streets, we fell in love with the colourful but laid-back ambiance 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 hanging 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 within the boutiques alongside Matogianni Road, 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 Seaside
Along with your steps full, it’s time to indulge within the seashore lifetime of Mykonos Island. For a comparatively small island, Mykonos has no scarcity of lovely seashores, and selecting one of the best one is an unenviable activity. With that mentioned, Paradise Seaside is the right place to begin.
Paradise and Tremendous Paradise Seaside mix to create a shocking location that additionally occurs to be dwelling to the island’s most enjoyable seashore get together scene. Within the top of summer season, the seashore floods with scantily clad women and men bathing within the Aegean solar. Come dusk, the get together scene goes up a notch with music and tropical cocktails at seashore golf equipment like Jackie O’ and The Tremendous Paradise Seaside Membership.
Exterior of the excessive season, you’ll discover glowing white sand devoid of huge crowds. Add on some beachfront eating places and it’s a pristine spot to get pleasure from a time out. Be sure that to guide your sunbed prematurely so you’ve one of the best seat in the home.
3. Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
A short drive from the center of Mykonos City, a go to to the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Just like the seashores, there’s stiff competitors for essentially the most attractive monasteries and church buildings on the tiny island. However Panagia Tourliani shouldn’t be one to overlook.
Virtually 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
Some of the 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 outdated wheat business.
Again within the day, there have been 20 of those well-known windmills. Whereas solely seven stay, they’re now probably the most in style 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 superb pictures. However make sure to return at nightfall for probably the greatest 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 desires. 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 houses, eating places, and a variety of stylish bars which are excellent for sundown cocktails. Simply make sure to make a reservation forward of time. You can too wander all the way 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 Seaside
Agrari Seaside contrasts tremendously with Paradise Seaside. The recognition of Mykonos brings in hearty crowds and seashore events, one thing that may be laborious to flee in the summertime. However Agrari Seaside 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 seashore on the quieter part of the island’s southern coast. The golden sand runs alongside the shore till it connects to Elia Seaside, 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 delicate sand, the place you’ll uncover a small concession stand and some solar loungers that you should use to bask within the heat.
7. Delos Island
Taking a ship journey to Delos Island is without doubt one of the issues we suggest, particularly when you love Greek historical past. Departing from the Outdated 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, 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 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 facet of paths shared by pilgrims 12 months after 12 months. The island’s historical past, nonetheless, reaches its zeniths with Delos’ 5,000-year-old stone huts.
One of the best ways to expertise Delos is to leap on one of many guided boat excursions. This is without doubt one of the hottest excursions in all of Mykonos, so guide early when you can.
8. Psarou Seaside
A few miles outdoors of Mykonos City, Psarou Seaside is one other in style spot for a day on the sand. Lined by upscale seashore 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 seashore is sort of completely made up of solar loungers and rows of seashore umbrellas. You may neglect about laying down the towel right here. As a substitute, spend your day taking within the sights and sounds plus the odd superstar when you’re fortunate. Protecting the summer season crowds in thoughts, you might wish to guide a solar lounge forward of time.
On the water is the place the actual enjoyable is, nonetheless. When you’re settled, it’s time for water sports activities. Go on a scuba diving journey or bounce on board a jet ski. Afterward, dine on the iconic seashore bar restaurant Nammos.
9. Armenistis Lighthouse
Little Venice could also be one of the best sundown spot on Mykonos, nevertheless it’s not all the time budget-friendly. That is very true if you wish to drink at one of the best bars alongside the coast. For a completely free sundown, make your approach 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 City.
It’s finest to offer 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 Outdated Port
The event of a contemporary port on Mykonos has taken the main focus of its historic Outdated Port. Many vacationers don’t even take the time to discover. However when you’re like us, then that’s all of the extra motive so as to add the Outdated Port to your Mykonos itinerary.
Like the primary city, Outdated 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 Outdated 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
Just a few 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 numerous nice scuba diving spots round Mykonos, together with from Psarou Seaside. However for rookies, Lia Seaside is the right place to start. Throughout the protected bay you’ll discover calm swimming circumstances with glorious readability as you study 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 do this at Dragonissi.
Mykonos is the right place to study to Scuba Dive because the water is crystal clear and actually calm. This tour is ideal for rookies!
12. Ano Mera Village
Just like the Outdated Port, Ano Mera Village is one other superb 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 houses. 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 once you go to Ano Mera Village. That’s precisely the way you’ll find yourself on a gorgeous cafe patio, sipping wine and overlooking the Aegean Sea.
13. Church of Panagia Paraportiani
Admiring the gorgeous Church of Panagia Paraportiani is without doubt 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, the truth is, 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 straightforward. You may merely bounce on a bus and get off at Fabrika Central. It’s additionally attainable to stroll from Little Venice.
14. Elia Seaside
On the southern coast, Elia Seaside is the opposite half of a sandy shore shared with Agrari Seaside. Elia Seaside 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 season months, there are sometimes seashore events that includes DJs, booze, and loads of dancing. However that apart, it’s a relaxed spot that’s cherished among the many LGBTQ neighborhood and even the odd nudist.
While you depart the sand and go for a swim, you’ll uncover crystal-clear waters and an excellent mixture of blue shades. Apart from swimming, you may enterprise out on a jet ski, get a view as you para-sail and you may as well strive 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. In spite of everything, Mykonos is without doubt one of the oldest wine-growing areas on earth.
A beautiful place to do exactly that’s at Mykonos Vioma Natural 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 can too join a winery tour that can take you behind the scenes of this stunning farm.
However Vioma isn’t just about distinctive wine tasting. Because the identify suggests, there’s far more to this natural farm. Take your time exploring to find conventional Mykonian delicacies equivalent to rusks, hams, genuine Greek salad, and artisan cheese.
If you wish to take a guided wine tour, this one which goes to a locals house 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 nicely past the mainland. Now, out of the two,000 islands within the nation, round 170 are inhabited.
Right this moment, the nation nonetheless will depend on the ocean to get from A to B. As you journey round Greece, water taxis and ferries are in style, not simply to switch locals and vacationers, however cargo too.
To find out about Greece and Mykonos’ oceangoing historical past, each historic 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, historic 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, seen the sundown from the coast, and swam beneath the ocean. However for a contemporary 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 a lot of nooks and crannies alongside the coast that you simply’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 a number of operators on the island, relying on the place you’re primarily based. 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 conserving our eye out for marine life.
18. Rhenia Island
Rhenia Island is one other of the close by islands you need 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 1000’s of years, right this moment, 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 non-public boat. However when you’ve arrived, you’ll don’t have any scarcity of wonderful 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 historic temples have been left to outlive by themselves. Add on some quaint Twentieth-century church buildings and you’ll see why Rhenia Island is without doubt one of the finest day journeys from Mykonos.
19. Boat Excursions
Most of the finest seashores on Mykonos could be discovered on the breathtaking southern coast. You can spend a day at every, however for a memorable expertise, go island hopping and be part of this full-day south coast cruise.
Starting at Ornos Seaside, for eight hours, you may sit back and slowly make your method 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 Seaside. Final up is the colourful Tremendous Paradise Seaside 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 historic vases, vessels, artworks, and columns.
The museum could also be small nevertheless 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 lots of 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’ll entry all the foremost ones equivalent to Santorini, Tinos, and Naxos from the native port.
Frequent ferry crossings gives you loads of choices in the case of exploring the encompassing islands by yourself. Likewise, there’s an abundance of native excursions that can showcase the great thing about the Cyclades on a yacht.
Santorini is one other well-known vacation spot within the Cyclades and is a number of hours away from Mykonos. You may simply take a make a day journey of it with 5 ferries crossing every day. Another choice is Tinos, which is simply half-hour by boat and boasts some stunning conventional villages.
Desirous about Santorini? Try our information on the superb island.
22. Bike Tour
Exploring stunning Mykonos on two wheels guarantees to be as memorable an journey as any on the island. Whilst you develop increasingly acquainted with the mountainous, sun-soaked Mykonos, there’s all the time extra to see. On a motorbike, you are able to do simply that with out losing any time.
Becoming a member of a neighborhood professional on a motorbike tour will make it easier to get off the overwhelmed path and away from the island’s most iconic locations. Take the again streets by charming villages and seize coastal and city views that you simply wouldn’t have in any other case seen. As you discover the countryside, you’ll get to know Mykonos on a deeper stage.
The hilly nature of the island has pressured some bike operators to offer a wide range of excursions for various health ranges. So there’s no entry barrier for vacationers.
FAQ’s
What’s Mykonos finest for?
Mykonos is finest recognized for its unbelievable nightlife, seashore events, and delightful seashores. However it additionally presents a captivating outdated 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 best Santorini or Mykonos?
The selection between Santorini and Mykonos actually will depend on what you’re searching for out of your trip. Santorini is good for these looking for dramatic volcanic landscapes and romantic settings, whereas Mykonos is the place to be within 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 essential points of interest, together with the seashores and Mykonos City. In our opinion 5 days in Mykonos is the right period of time to benefit from the full scope of what Mykonos has to supply.
How you can get to Mykonos
There are two methods to get to Mykonos. Probably the most scenic is by boat. A number of corporations, equivalent to Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star, and Sea Jet, function commonly between Mykonos and varied Greek locations.
It might 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 offer a extra sturdy trip.
Sea Jet on their smaller catamarans can get you there the quickest. Nevertheless, when you get seasick, bear in mind this trip can get bumpy. We suggest reserving prematurely for all three, particularly Sea Jet.
You may fly to Mykonos throughout the summer season months. This isn’t the budget-friendly possibility however will make it easier to get to the island so much quicker. 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 must be seeking 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 ambiance is electrical. After all, this era comes with crowds and better lodge charges. However it’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 might not be working. Exterior 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 one of the best 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.
Finances – Elena Resort Mykonos
Within the coronary heart of Mykonos City and simply 6 minutes from the seashore, Elena Resort Mykonos presents 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 – Concord Boutique Resort
Subsequent to the Outdated Port in Mykonos City, Concord Boutique Resort balances luxurious and worth. Simply two minutes from the seashore, company will get pleasure from trendy 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 non-public pool. To pamper your self, join their vary of spa remedies earlier than eating at their onsite restaurant.