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 by way of charming streets in Mykonos City to discovering hidden culinary spots, we’ve acquired you coated.
We’ll additionally dive into the wealthy historical past and tradition that make this island actually distinctive. Whether or not you’re a first-timer or a seasoned customer, our insider ideas will assist 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 high Greek Islands on each traveler’s record!
High 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 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’ll be able to strategy from many angles. You possibly 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 perfect issues to do in Mykonos so you’ll be able to plan your subsequent journey to this superb Greek Island.
1. Mykonos City
After arriving on one of many finest Greek islands, make a beeline for Mykonos City. 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 amazing 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, often known 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 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 in opposition to the unbelievably blue sky. We had been actually 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 had been in our personal film scene.
2. Paradise Seashore
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 gorgeous seashores, and selecting the perfect one is an unenviable process. With that stated, Paradise Seashore is the right place to start out.
Paradise and Tremendous Paradise Seashore mix to create a shocking location that additionally occurs to be house to the island’s most enjoyable seashore celebration scene. Within the top of summer time, the seashore floods with scantily clad women and men bathing within the Aegean solar. Come dusk, the celebration scene goes up a notch with music and tropical cocktails at seashore golf equipment like Jackie O’ and The Tremendous Paradise Seashore Membership.
Outdoors 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 take pleasure in a time out. Ensure to e book your sunbed upfront so you have got the perfect seat in the home.
3. Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
A short 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 may be stiff competitors for probably the most beautiful monasteries and church buildings on the tiny island. However Panagia Tourliani just isn’t one to overlook.
Nearly 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 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 liked taking within the hand-painted altar display 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 previous wheat business.
Again within the day, there have been 20 of those well-known windmills. Whereas solely seven stay, they’re now one of the fashionable sights 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 images. However make sure you return at nightfall for the most effective sundown spots on Mykonos.
5. Agrari Seashore
Agrari Seashore contrasts tremendously with Paradise Seashore. The recognition of Mykonos brings in hearty crowds and seashore events, one thing that may be arduous 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 seashore 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, slender 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.
6. Little Venice
In Mykonos City, 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. 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 lot of stylish bars which can be excellent for sundown cocktails. Simply make sure you make a reservation forward of time. You can even 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.
7. Delos Island
Taking a boat journey to Delos Island is likely one of the finest issues to do in Mykonos, Greece. Departing from the Outdated Harbor in Mykonos City, it’ll take vacationers round 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 distinguished archaeological websites, lots of which kind 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 Website.
Native mythology tells of the start of Artemis and Apollo, which occurred 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 yr after yr. 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 likely one of the hottest excursions in all of Mykonos.
8. Psarou Seashore
A few miles outdoors of Mykonos City, Psarou Seashore is one other fashionable spot for a day on the sand. Lined by upscale seashore bars, a sequence of opulent resorts, and among the finest meals on the island, Psarou is a spot to expertise the lap of luxurious.
The seashore is nearly completely made up of solar loungers and rows of seashore umbrellas. You possibly can neglect about laying down the towel right here. As a substitute, spend your day taking within the sights and sounds plus the odd movie star should you’re fortunate. Protecting the summer time crowds in thoughts, it’s possible you’ll need to e book a solar lounge forward of time.
On the water is the place the true enjoyable is, nonetheless. 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 seashore bar restaurant Nammos.
9. Armenistis Lighthouse
Little Venice could also be the perfect sundown spot on Mykonos, but it surely’s not at all times 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 option 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 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 Outdated Port
The event of a contemporary port on Mykonos has taken the main target of its historic Outdated Port. Many vacationers don’t even take the time to discover. However should you’re like me, 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 slender streets. Amongst them are perennially 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 a giant tick in your Mykonos bingo card.
11. Scuba Diving
A couple of days on the shore of the Aegean Sea can 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 lots of nice scuba diving spots round Mykonos, together with from Psarou Seashore. However for rookies, Lia Seashore is the right 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 too can try this 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 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’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 offers vacationers with a singular and genuine expertise inside an enthralling 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 whenever you go to Ano Mera Village. That’s precisely the way you’ll find yourself on a stupendous 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 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, in reality, a a lot bigger advanced 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 beautiful bell tower.
Arriving on the advanced is simple. Vacationers can merely soar on a bus and get off at Fabrika Central. It’s additionally potential 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’ll be able to benefit from the solar lounges and water sports activities with out dense crowds, with ample further sand to put down the towel.
Throughout the summer time months, there are often seashore events that includes DJs, booze, and loads of dancing. However that apart, it’s a relaxed spot that’s liked 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 a superb mixture of blue shades. Except for swimming, you’ll be able to enterprise out on a jet ski, get a view as you para-sail and you too can 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 tipple. 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 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 even join a winery tour that may take you behind the scenes of this stunning farm.
However Vioma is not only about distinctive wine tasting. Because the identify suggests, there’s way more to this natural farm. Take your time exploring to find conventional Mykonian delicacies reminiscent of 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 properly past the mainland. Now, out of the two,000 islands within the nation, round 170 are inhabited.
Right now, the nation nonetheless depends upon the ocean to get from A to B. As you journey round Greece, water taxis and ferries are fashionable, not simply to switch locals and vacationers, however cargo too.
To study Greece and Mykonos’ oceangoing historical past, each historic and modern 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 duplicate 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 various 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.
Mykonos Kayak has quite a lot of journeys on provide, relying on the time and expertise you have got. Their basic tour takes you to wild rock formations the place you’ll paddle into grottos strewn throughout the northern shoreline whereas protecting your 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, immediately, nobody lives right here. It’s now an untouched paradise.
With zero ferry infrastructure, the one option to make it right here is on a guided tour or personal boat. However when you’ve arrived, you’ll haven’t 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 had 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 will be discovered on the breathtaking southern coast. You 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’ll be able to chill 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 in opposition to 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 resort.
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’ll be able to go to the Mykonos Archaeological Museum.
Historical past lovers and architectural buffs can have a blast as they discover the unbelievable assortment. Guests will be capable of rise up near historic vases, vessels, artworks, and columns.
The museum could also be small but it surely’s been masterfully curated. Additional highlights embrace a shocking mortuary urn that explores the story of the Trojan Conflict. For individuals who missed out on exploring Rhenia, take a look at the museum’s Purification Pit. This was found in 1898 and included tons 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 house to over 200 islands and you may entry all the main ones reminiscent of Santorini, Tinos, and Naxos from the native port.
Frequent ferry crossings will provide you with loads of choices in relation to exploring the encircling islands by yourself. Likewise, there may be 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 within the Cyclades and is a number of hours away from Mykonos. You possibly can 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.
Fascinated with Santorini? Take a look at 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 an increasing number of conversant in the mountainous, sun-soaked Mykonos, there’s at all times extra to see. On a motorcycle, you are able to do simply that with out losing any time.
Becoming a member of a neighborhood knowledgeable on a motorcycle tour will assist 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 stage.
The hilly nature of the island has pressured some bike operators to offer quite a lot of excursions for various health ranges. So there’s no entry barrier for vacationers.
The best way to get to Mykonos
There are two methods to get to Mykonos. Essentially the most scenic is by boat. A number of corporations, reminiscent of Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star, and Sea Jet, function repeatedly between Mykonos and varied Greek locations.
It could possibly 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 experience.
Sea Jet on their smaller catamarans can get you there the quickest. Nonetheless, should you get seasick, remember this experience can get bumpy. We advocate reserving upfront for all three, particularly Sea Jet.
You possibly can fly to Mykonos in the course of the summer time months. This isn’t the budget-friendly choice however will assist you get to the island quite a bit 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 time frame vacationers needs to be trying to go to the island. The climate is heat by Might and lasts all the best way to 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. In fact, this era comes with crowds and better resort 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 is probably not 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 sights coated and a few key questions answered, let’s take a look at some locations to remain in Mykonos that go well with all budgets.
Finances – Elena Lodge Mykonos
Within the coronary heart of Mykonos City and simply 6 minutes from the seashore, Elena Lodge Mykonos presents comfort and luxury. Every room has a TV and Wi-Fi, whereas visitors will benefit from the day by day buffet breakfast and airport transfers.
Mid-range – Concord Boutique Lodge
Subsequent to the Outdated Port in Mykonos City, Concord Boutique Lodge balances luxurious and worth. Simply two minutes from the seashore, visitors will take pleasure in 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 tub or personal pool. To pamper your self, join their vary of spa remedies earlier than eating at their onsite restaurant.
