Inhabited since the 5th millennium BC, Mykonos is an island in the Aegean Sea and belongs to the Cyclades in Greece. Boasting a rich history, modern Mykonos is a cosmopolitan destination that draws millions of visitors every year, from international celebrities to backpackers.
There is a lot to love and enjoy in Mykonos for any tourist. The attractions range from coastal villages like Platis Gialos and Ornos to the vivacious Mykonos town and an abundance of sinuous beaches such as Kalo Livadi, Elia and Ftelia. The island is blessed with year-round sunshine and presents a beautiful picture with its distinctive white windmills, winding alleys and stunning vistas from vantage points.
Despite an abundance of beach bars, cafes and clubs and a sizzling nightlife, the island retains its old-world appeal, with locals still enjoying traditional Greek cuisine in seaside taverns and speaking in their own dialect. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports and explore the island’s numerous bays, beaches, caves and coves.
No matter what kind of holiday you come seeking, you’ll take back with you beautiful images and memories of whitewashed houses, colourful balconies and the glittering blue sea.
FAQs
How to get around the city?
There are two main bus stations in Mykonos, which take you around the town and to the most popular beaches. Taxis are a faster and more convenient way to explore the island. For an even more personalised experience, hire a car or motorbike.
Where to change money?
Mykonos uses the euro. Money can be exchanged in banks, some hotels and exchange offices. Banks generally offer the best rates, but shop around as rates fluctuate considerably.
Is tipping required?
If a restaurant has not included a service charge, you can leave a 5 to 10% tip. For taxis, round off the bill to the nearest euro or ask the driver to keep the change.
Is smoking allowed in restaurants and bars?
Smoking is banned in public places including bars, restaurants and hotels all over Greece. However, there are designated areas for smoking in some restaurants and hotels.
Useful Information
National Holidays
Mykonos observes national holidays like New Year’s Day (1st January), Greek Independence Day (25th March), Labour Day (1st May), Feast of the Assumption(15th August), Ohi Day (28th October) and Christmas (25th December).
Business Hours
Most businesses operate in the morning from 8am or 9am until midday or 1pm, then close for several hours and reopen after 4pm or 5pm. Sunday is usually a holiday.
Electricity
The standard voltage in Mykonos is 220V and the frequency is 50Hz. Sockets may have 2 or 3 holes of different sizes. Carrying an international adaptor is recommended.
Currency
The currency of Mykonos is the euro (€). The euro is divided into 100 cents. Coin denominations are one, two, five, 10, 20 and 50 cents, €1 and €2. The notes are €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500.
Language
The official language spoken here is Greek. However, the island is popular with tourists, so English is widely spoken and understood.
Time Zone
Mykonos observes Eastern European Time (EET), which is two hours ahead of GMT
Sites of Interest
By itself a town with plenty to offer, Mykonos is surrounded by various interesting and intriguing sights. Obviously the main attraction is watching those special Grecian sunsets while relaxing on some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Many of its neighbouring towns and islands are of architectural importance. From the iconic windmills to typical Cycladic villages and well-preserved churches, there is plenty to see during your stay on this charming island. For the best combination of gorgeous scenery and authentic Greek culture, Mykonos one of the top choices in Europe.
Ano Mera Village
Ano Mera is the second biggest town on the island, but it retains a quiet, old-world feel. It is typically Cycladian, with traditional stone houses, small shops and charming little cafes surrounding a large public square. Relax with a traditional Greek meal at one of the taverns, then head to the monastery of Panagia Tourliani, located nearby. It is worth a visit for its superb collection of icons, holy vessels and vestments.
Panagia Paraportiani
Constructed from whitewashed stone, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani takes its name “paraporti” meaning “small gate” as it is located next to the small gate of the medieval wall of Mykonos, right beside the sea. It is actually made up of five churches, sculpted into one. The church of Agios Efstathios is the centre of this complex, surrounded by the three other churches. On top of these four churches, there is the church of Panagia, shaped like a dome. Dating back to the 15th century, it is one of the most photographed sites on Mykonos.
Archaeological Museum
Facing the sea in the Old Port of Mykonos Town, this museum is spread over six exhibition rooms and a courtyard. It showcases a unique collection of artefacts discovered in excavations throughout the island and in neighbouring Delos and Rhenia. Among the displays are marble and clay sculptures, jewellery and ceramics dating as far back as the 7th century BC. Of particular interest here is a vase with an image of the Trojan horse, unearthed in Mykonos.
Marathia Dam
The dam was constructed on the northwest side of Mykonos island, four kilometres in a straight line. It serves as a reservoir for potable water as well as a source of irrigation during summer. Over the years, the dam has developed a remarkable wetland with significant growth of flora and fauna. It is worth a visit for sighting some species of endangered migratory birds.
The Windmills
The windmills of Mykonos are situated southwest of Horos Town, beside the sea. Built in a row by the Venetians, these snow-white beauties are one of the most distinctive sights in all of Greece. Of the 10 original windmills, only seven remain. Powered by the north wind, they ground wheat into flour for centuries. The best views of the windmills along the skyline can be had on board a ferry.
Lena’s House
Lena’s House Museum is a 19th-century middle-class Mykonian home, giving you a glimpse of life in those times. A branch of the Folklore Museum,it is named after its last resident and retains its old furnishings, as well as etchings of costumes worn by local women in the 18th century. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire various kinds of laces made by Mykonian embroiderers. The walls are decorated with valuable framed embroideries, old mirrors, a collection of large French gravures and 19th-century decorative dishes.
Armenistis Lighthouse
Dating back to 1891, this octagonal lighthouse was built after an English ship lost its way. It rises to a height of 19 metres, runs on electricity and is still in working order. The house next to it has several rooms which housed the current lighthouse keepers and often their families. It offers panoramic views of Tinos, the Aegean Sea and a beautiful sunset in the late afternoon.
Little Venice
This colourful town sits right on top of the water, much like the Italian city of Venice. It is among the most photographed of Mykonos attractions for its candy-coloured buildings, buzzing waterfront bars and 18th-century fishing houses with balconies that look out to the sea. Take a seat on the terrace of a tavern, arm yourself with a glass of fizz and watch the incredible sunset while you tuck into traditional Greek fare.
Island of Delos
A tour of Delos yields a fascinating insight into the daily life of the ancient inhabitants of the island, located just a few miles from cosmopolitan Mykonos. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been uninhabited since the 7th century BC and houses some incredible archaeological treasures. The on-site museum has one of the finest collections of ancient Greek sculpture, as well as displays exhibiting numerous artefacts recovered from excavations around the island.
Aegean Maritime Museum
This museum is housed in a traditional Cycladic building dating back to the 19th century, in the centre of Mykonos town. Key exhibits here include historical ship dunks and documents, rare engravings and maps, naval instruments and nautical motifs from the 5th century BC. The library of the Museum consists of more than 5,000 rare books as well as old manuscripts and photographs. There’s a garden in the complex, where you’ll see marble columns with relief depictions of shipwrecks and sailors lost in the sea.
Experiences
Honestly, you’ll never run out of things to enjoy in and around Mykonos. For lovers of leisure, the wine tasting and cooking lessons, the panoramic boat tours and beach walks dish up the perfect recipe for a superb holiday. Adventure buffs love the region for its fantastic snorkelling and diving hotspots.
Watersports
Stunning beaches and strong waves make Mykonos a water sports hotspot, ideal for windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkelling. You can sign up for a variety of courses, from beginners to masters, conducted under expert guidance. Underwater adventures in these clear waters allow you to explore shipwrecks and beautiful caves. Super Paradise Beach is a popular diving zone. Platis Yialos is a great area for swimming speed-boating and jet skiing, while the wide, sandy beach of Ftelia Bay attracts windsurfers.
Savour the local gastronomy
Mykonos offers culinary delights for food lovers at all hours of the day and night. Start your morning with a traditional Greek breakfast at a café, then enjoy grilled fish that has been delivered fresh from the sea while you sit right beside the sand. Ornos is a good spot to explore local butcheries and bakeries. Evenings beckon you to the quiet seafront bars of Kalo Livadi, where you can enjoy stunning sunset views over creative cocktails and delectable halloumi cheese. For an old-school Greek dinner, head to Mykonos town, where the bayside taverns serve the island’s speciality dishes like sausage, feta spinach pie and tomato stewed beef with orzo washed down with local wines.
Take a boat tour
Popular with the locals, Kalo Livadi is often the last port of call for boats that travel between the south coast beaches of Mykonos. It is perfect for a swim in the shallow waters as well as a scenic ride in a paddle boat or kayak. The stretch is safe for families, with lifeguards on duty around.
Trip to Drafaki
Drafaki is a small village-like settlement outside Mykonos Town. It makes a good base from which to explore the rest of the island, with many major beaches located nearby. Drafaki itself is a quiet, picturesque area with characteristic white and blue Cycladic architecture. There are flowers and greenery all around. For those who enjoy a spot of peace and quiet away from the hubbub of the main town, this is an ideal spot to relax and even stay.
Jeep Safari
An off-road trip allows you to explore the hidden corners of Mykonos. Besides the thrill of the ride, the views are amazing, taking you past traditional farms, rocky terrain and remote beaches. Drive along the coast to Choulakia Beach, up to the famous lighthouse from where you can view the stunning Marathi lake, Panormos Beach and Agios Sostis. Take a break for a swim and snack, then move along to Ano Mera Square, Venetian Castle ruins and beyond.
Take a pottery tour
The pottery workshops of Plati Yialos, which lies a 10-minute bus ride from Mykonos town, offer a wonderful window into the work of local artisans. You’ll get a close look at them making ceramics in the traditional Greek way, then buy some pieces you like for your home or as souvenirs.
Visit the fish market
Stroll down to the Old Port of Mykonos town early in the morning for a glimpse of local life, where you’ll see fishermen trading fresh produce from the sea. The colourful catch of the day is lined up on large marble slabs. The air is lively with buyers and sellers bargaining. If you love seafood, this is a good opportunity to help you decide which marine delicacy to have for dinner later.
The Best Beaches
The beaches of Mykonos offer a vibrant contrast of golden sands and clear blue waters. Some of them are pebble-strewed beauties amidst wonderful landscapes while others are relaxing haunts for sun worshippers. There are also beaches that turn into party zones at night, perfectly capturing the wild spirit of Mykonos. Most of the popular beaches are well organized with all the necessary facilities including bars, restaurants and water sports centres.
Korfos Beach
The beach is around three kilometres from Mykonos town. The steady wind patterns in this area form large waves making it a favourite destination for the windsurfers. If you visit when the sea is calm, the sparkling green waters will beckon you for a dip.
Agios Stefanos Beach
This is a popular family beach with a shallow sea, ideal for a swim. You can relax on a sunbed or just lie on your towel while enjoying the views of the islands of Delos and Rhenia. There is the picturesque chapel of Agios Stefanos at one side and an array of taverns and restaurants offering refreshments.
Choulakia Beach
Tucked away in a quiet corner, Choulakia Beach offers ample peace and serenity. The beach derives its name from the beautiful round stones that are found in it. These pebbles are a rare natural phenomenon from prehistoric periods and cannot be removed from the area.
Platys Gialos Beach
Being a well-organized beach with classic views, Platys Gialos ranks high among the top beaches in Mykonos. It has some good restaurants and also plenty of hotels. Take a long walk over the soft golden sands while enjoying the beauty of the crystal-clear waters.
Psarou Beach
Enclosed by mountains, this beach offers calm blue waters and a stretch of clean white sands. It has a cosmopolitan vibe and the facilities are of the best grade. You can relax under the sun or take some lessons in scuba diving from the diving school located here.
Agios Ioannis Beach
This beach offers the ideal setting for sunbathing in peace. The views of Delos and the cape of Aleomandra from here are spectacular. If you visit during the end of September, you will be able to enjoy the Saint John’s fair that is organised here.
Super Paradise Beach
With a beautiful setting of blue waters and white sands, this beach is always bustling with activity. It is frequented both by the youth and the gay population of Mykonos. The parties start in the mid-afternoon, making this the ideal place for anyone who is looking for an energetic atmosphere.
Kapari Beach
This small beach has to be reached by foot and is the perfect spot to enjoy a swim in the clear and calm waters. Away from the eyes of the crowds, it offers a great view of the island of Delos. Do not miss the sunset from here as the sky turns into a colourful palette in that period.
Paradise Beach
The soft sands and azure seas make this beach a real beauty. It is also one of the most renowned beaches in Mykonos for its spirited parties. There are plenty of restaurants and resorts, along with some of the best clubs, which draw party lovers from all over the town.
Agios Sostis Beach
Untouched by touristy distractions, this beach exudes a raw natural charm. The ground is a mixture of sand and pebbles with the water is ideal for a swim. There are no sunbeds or lounge chairs available so you can lie on your towel and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Merchia Beach
This is an ideal beach for those who love the rugged beauty of nature and enjoy exploring. It is not rich with facilities but is the right choice for seekers of peace and relaxation. It is best to visit this beach on a day when the north winds are weak. Do not forget to bring your own drinks.
Fokos Beach
With a long stretch of white sand and blue waters, this beach is a real gem and a must-visit in Mykonos. It is free from the crowds and offers a superb view of the Aegean Sea. Do not miss the taste of the authentic Greek dishes that are supplied by the only tavern near the beach.
Mirsini Beach
Located adjacent to Fokos Beach, this Beach offers the right environment to relax and soak up the sunbeams. A mass of rock separates the beach into two beautiful parts. Carry a pair of good shoes to explore around to discover some surprises.
Kalo Livadi Beach
Located in the southern section of the island, this is one of the longest beaches in Mykonos, both in length and width. The facilities are well organized and sundecks and umbrellas are available at a reasonable price. Go for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or visit the beach bars to quench your thirst.
Elia Beach
This beach is easily accessible and offers a lovely combination of fine sand and clear waters. The long stretch of the beach packs all the necessary facilities, including taverns, bars and centres for water sports. You can take a walk up the hill on the left to enjoy some great views and the traditional architecture of the Cycladic houses.
Local Food & Beverage
Mykonos is the ultimate destination for enjoying authentic Mediterranean cuisine. From a lavish dining experience to a humble beach tavern, Mykonos has something for every tourist. The fresh catches from the sea cooked with touches of local olive oil and the delicious local cheese Kopanisti, constitute some classic Greek dishes. Snacks like Louza (spiced and cooked pork meat), appetizers like Ksinotira and traditional Greek dishes like Moussaka (baked eggplant and béchamel sauce) are some other favourites.
To wrap up with a sweet taste, there are delicacies like Baklava (made of pastry, honey and chopped nuts) and Amygdalota. The non-alcoholic drink of Soumada is a top choice to enjoy with the desserts and the Ouzo is an ever-present delight.
Here are some of the best destinations for the Foodies.
Kiki’s Tavern
This fantastic tavern offers delightful Greek dishes that will melt in your mouth along with rich flavours of wine. The appetizing salads and the grilled octopus are some favourite dishes. Just make sure you reach early to beat the queues that form outside this place.
Scorpios
The classic setting over the beach makes this an ideal place for enjoying some wonderful cocktails while lying on a sunbed. The dishes like black rice with calamari, seafood linguini and others provide a true taste of the holistic Mediterranean cuisine.
Spilia Restaurant
The restaurant is uniquely positioned in a cave with blue waters lapping the rock face below your feet. Try the Mykonian salad which is a traditional delight and don’t miss the lobster pasta.
Interni Restaurant
With an open courtyard that offers an urbane environment, this is a great spot for enjoying a meal at the heart of the town. The cuisine has an expansive array of dishes from the seafood quarter along with some enjoyable veg options.
M-eating Restaurant
If you want to enjoy some of the most original dishes in a traditional setting, this is the right place. Items like the sous vide lamb and the sea bass filet will delight your taste buds. For the perfect finishing touch, the desserts like chocolate mousse and Greek walnut pie are good choices.
Katerina’s Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Offering a great view from its outdoor patio, this restaurant makes dining a real pleasure. Enjoy the seafood platter or bite into the delicious baklava with ice cream while enjoying the colours of a glorious sunset.
Tropicana Beach Bar & Restaurant
Located in the party zone of Paradise Beach, this place changes gear after the DJ takes the stage in the evening. Lose yourself in the rhythm till the wee hours or relax on a deck chair while enjoying some of the creative cocktails.
Shopping
The pleasures of shopping in Mykonos are plenty and explorations through the backstreets can lead you to many hidden joys. You will find the art galleries, bakeries and souvenir shops brimming with various interesting items. There are boutiques that contain some innovative collections and also designer stores with exquisitely crafted pieces of jewellery. The Matoyianni Street, Little Matoyianni and the village of Ano Mera are some great spots to visit for the shopaholics.
Mytho
Situated in a wonderful location below a windmill, this is the perfect destination for souvenir hunters. Filled with a great collection of authentic Greek items, this place offers a wide variety of choices. From key chains to scarves and handmade bags, you will find a lot of items to choose from.
Address: Windmills, Mykonos 846 00, Greece
Amnesia
Amnesia stands out with items of unique designs and rich colours that are hand-crafted to perfection. Run by a couple, this women’s fashion shop has some great collections of purses, handbags, leather sandals and jewellery.
Address: 11 Mavrogeni, Chora, Mykonos, Greece
Dew
Following the labyrinthine streets of Chora you can reach this little shop that stocks various luxury items related to lifestyle. With collections ranging from Greek labels to the work of designers from Spain, India, Korea and other countries, this is the right place for updating your wardrobe.
Address: 11 Mavrogeni, Chora, Mykonos, Greece
Jackie O’ Beach Boutique
Whether you are heading for the beach or a party, this shop can provide you the right choice of clothes. Some of the brands that you will find in this shop include Neil Barrett, Apostolos Mitropoulos, Diesel, Sadh, Yamamoto and others.
Address: Super Paradise Bay, Mykonos, Greece
100% Mykonos
This shop offers the largest collection of souvenirs and gifts in the town. Well-stocked with t-shirts, caps, bags, sunglasses and various other items, it is the right spot to seek a cure from the bite of the shopping bug.
Address: 10 Agiou Louka, Mykonos, Greece
Matoyianni Street
This street forms the heart of the island and is also a must-visit for shopaholics. With various designer stores, souvenir shops and shops selling handmade jewellery, it is always bustling with activity, especially during the summer months.
Address: Matoyianni Street, Mykonos, Greece
Mitropoleos Street
The busy street is lined with various international fashion boutiques that are perfect spots to check the latest trends in clothes and accessories. It is also a trendy destination for coffee breaks and to enjoy some evening drinks.
Address: Mitropoleos Street, Mykonos, Greece
Hondos Centre
This newly opened boutique store has become a popular destination for tourists with its wide variety of collections. You will find a premium range of beauty and fashion products from brands like Christian Dior, Tom Ford, Chanel, Hermes and many others in this centre.
Address: Serakonta, Mykonos 846 00, Greece
Trends & Events
Mykonos has its calendar packed with various events that are celebrated with great vigour. The various religious feasts are accompanied by multiple cultural programs including traditional dance and music. Then there are occasions like the summer art festival and the gay festival that envelop the whole area with vibes of fun and excitement.
Feast of Harvest
This is an annual feast that takes place in the Agricultural Museum of the city. The villagers get together with food and wine and bake bread. The families then enjoy sessions of music and dancing along with traditional games.
Opening Hours: Second Sunday of September
Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
This religious festival takes place in the Chapel of Stavros as well as in the Folklore Museum. Marking the Holy Cross as the symbol of salvation, various prayers and events are organised throughout the day.
Opening Hours: 14th September
Mykonos Art Festival
Boasting an exciting chain of events, parties, film screenings, exhibitions and live performances, this festival electrifies the summer season in Mykonos. It features many famous Greek artists and attracts visitors from various countries.
Opening Hours: June- September
Gay Festival
This is a very significant festival in Mykonos that also promotes the motto of equal rights for homosexuals. There are massive parties of various themes, organised in classic open-air venues.
Address: Mykonos, Greece
Agia Kyriaki Festival
The small chapel on the island of Delos is built in honour of Saint Kyriaki and the day is celebrated each year with much fervour. There is a service, a feast and a party which is organised by the guards of the island along with their families.
Opening Hours: 7th July
Balosia
Celebrated on Epiphany Day, this festival marks the beginning of the naval period and is organised by the Women’s Association of the island. A cross is thrown into the sea to purify the waters. There are various events marked by good music and delicious local dishes.
Opening Hours: 6th January
The charm of Mykonos has made it an appealing destination for fashionistas and backpackers alike. If you are planning your next trip to a Grecian paradise, Mykonos is definitely a top pick.
Make sure that you check the updated timings of the shops and restaurants and take all necessary precautions when you travel. In case you are looking for another island paradise worth exploring, check out our Malta travel guide.
By: Suvajit Banerjee
© teleratz.com 2021
Teleratz 
Even though it’s surely not my favorite Greek island, Mykonos does look nice!
LikeLike