Things To Do In Mykonos, Greece: Your Travel Guide
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
April 2025
Looking out toward the Aegean Sea (Mykonos)
Welcome to Mykonos – an iconic destination in the Cyclades, a group of Greek islands southeast of the mainland. Mykonos is a place where whitewashed houses with blue shutters overlook the sparkling Aegean Sea, and where every cobblestone alleyway of Mykonos Town calls to you with promises of neverending charm and photo-worthy moments (between us, we took over a thousand photos during our day on Mykonos!).
You’ve probably heard of Mykonos. It’s enchanting. It’s a party place (in fact, it’s often dubbed the “party capital” of Greece for a reason). It has luxurious beach clubs and stunning white sands. It’s full of glitz and glamor. It holds significant historical appeal. And everyone should really try to visit at least once – if simply to check out what all this cosmopolitan vibe is about!
Mykonos is so much more than its reputation for partying and flashy nightlife might suggest. It’s here that tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. When we think of Mykonos, we think of the word “versatility”: because this island invites you to make it your own.
Permit us to accompany you through some of the unforgettable opportunities that await you here on Mykonos Island – from the best time to visit, to what to see, eat and do, and where to stay. We’ve crafted for you a guide that shows you all the wonder and beauty this island has to offer – whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or simply some laid-back luxury.
Let’s get this party started!
Quick Tips
The famous windmills of Mykonos: Kato Mili
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to Mykonos, Greece.
Mykonos is a fantastic destination year-round, though can certainly get crowded during the Summer months.
The island is considered a safe destination for international visitors.
Getting to Mykonos is easy: the island is well-serviced by ferry, international flights, boat tours … and even a helicopter!
Mykonos is in prime position for island-hopping adventures throughout the Aegean Sea.
Be sure to spend some time exploring Mykonos Town during your visit: from Little Venice to the Kato Mili (windmills), to the Agricultural Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos … and all the bars, restaurants, boutique shops, whitewashed churches, and stunning waterfront views along the way.
Most people choose to walk around Mykonos Town, but to get farther afield you’ll find a comprehensive bus network, as well as rental cars and motorbikes, taxis, and water taxis.
Up for some beach time? Consider a visit to Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, Platis Gialos, Psarou Beach or Kalafatis Beach in the south, or to Agios Sostis Beach or Agios Stefanos Beach in the north. All boast crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sands.
If time permits, make sure to include in your itinerary a visit to nearby Delos Island: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once considered to be “the most sacred of all islands”.
Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, often dubbed the “party island”: things start to really spice up once the sun goes down.
The island also offers visitors a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional Greek tavernas serving fresh, local meals to upscale international restaurants. Make sure you arrive hungry!
There are numerous accommodation options on Mykonos, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses, and from rooms in traditional Greek tavernas to apartments available for rent. Consider staying in Mykonos Town if you want to be in the heart of it all.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit Mykonos, Greece!
Plan Your Trip
The alluring alleyways of Mykonos Town (Mykonos)
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Mykonos: The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Greek islands in general (which of course includes Mykonos!) is when you have time!
The Summer (June through August) is high season in the Greek islands – and the time when Mykonos truly bursts to life with pure, unadulterated energy. This is a great time to visit if you love hot weather and bright sunshine, beach clubs that pulse with music, and restaurants and bars packed with wall-to-wall visitors. The sea is generally calm and clear during this peak tourist season, most amenities, tours and activities will be open and available, and the general atmosphere on the island is nothing less than electric.
Visiting Mykonos during the shoulder or “off” season (April and May, or September and October) can be just as amazing as visiting during the Summer. This time of year affords visitors that sweet spot: the weather and sea water is still warm during the late Spring and early Fall, crowds are lighter, and you’re more likely to find better deals on accommodations and activities. We think this time of year is ideal for those of you who want to experience the best of Mykonos, without the sensory overload.
Seeking solitude and introspection during your time in Mykonos? Consider visiting during the low season (November to March), when you’ll discover a quieter, moodier portrait of the island, and opportunities to truly connect with traditional Greek life.
Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle and the heat of Summer, or the slightly more tranquil feel of the off-season, Mykonos really can be visited at any time of year!
Getting to Mykonos
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, Mykonos is well-serviced by various modes of transportation, and reaching the island is relatively straightforward.
Ferry. Mykonos has direct ferry connections to numerous other islands in the Cyclades, including Andros, Syros, Signos, Paros, Naxos, Tinos and Koufonisia. Other ferries can take you all the way south to Santorini, and there are regular departures from the port of Athens to Mykonos. All ferries arrive at Mykonos’ modern new port in Tourlos (also known as the New Port, located just 3km/1.86mi) from Mykonos Town. The journey from Athens by ferry takes anywhere between 3 and 5 hours, depending upon your choice of company and service type.
The Mykonos International Airport welcomes flights from the Greek mainland (there are direct flights from both the Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” and the Thessaloniki Airport "Makedonia"), several other major European cities (including London, Paris, Barcelona and Munich, to name but a few), and the Middle East. Both Aegean Airlines and SKY Express offer multiple daily flights between Athens and Mykonos: the flight takes about 40-45 minutes. The Mykonos airport is just 4km/2.5mi from Mykonos Town, which you can reach by local bus, rental car, or taxi.
Boat tours make island-hopping easy and scenic. Consider a one- or multi-day boat tour from Athens to make the most of your time in the Cyclades! Many tours will include transportation, accommodation and airport or port transfers. You can also book a boat tour from the nearby islands of Naxos and Paros.
Want to arrive in Mykonos in true glitz and glam style? Consider a helicopter transfer from Santorini. Now that’s how to take in the view of the Greek islands!
Getting Around Mykonos
Mykonos Island covers an area of just over 40 square miles – about the size of a medium-sized U.S. town or a large village. Mykonos is a relatively compact island, with the most popular ways to get around being by foot or local bus.
Aside walking everywhere (as we did!), the most affordable, reliable and popular way to get around Mykonos is by bus – especially during the Summer months. KTEL offer modern and comfortable (complete with air-conditioning!) buses throughout a comprehensive island network (including to and from the airport), though note that the majority of their fleet are not wheelchair accessible. You can purchase tickets directly from the driver (cash only) or at central bus stations: the cost for a single, one-way ride is between 1.5 and 2.5 Euros, depending upon the length of the route you take. KTEL buses operate on a frequent schedule, from early morning through late evening, with extended hours during the peak tourist season.
Insider tip. There are two central bus stations in Mykonos Town: Fabrika and Old Port. Make sure to check from which terminal your bus originates, depending on your destination.
Insider tip. Walking really is the most convenient – and generally the most enjoyable! – way to explore Mykonos Town. This is especially the case as Mykonos Town (Chora) is pedestrian-only.
Renting a car is another excellent option for sightseeing on Mykonos. Rental cars are available from both the airport and within Mykonos Town. Scooter and motorbike rentals are also possible (Beck’s dream!). These are excellent options if you wish to explore the island at your own pace, on your own time.
Insider tip. Parking can be challenging in some locations on the island, so be forewarned!
Insider tip. Be sure to obey local traffic laws and drive carefully on the island, especially during the height of the Summer. There can be a lot of traffic outside of Mykonos Town!
Taxis are also available to help you explore Mykonos Town and further afield: they are excellent for shorter trips and can be easily hailed on the streets. All taxi fares in Mykonos are metered: note that from midnight to 5am a surcharge applies, and that excess luggage and airport/port transfers may also incur additional fees.
Insider tip. Whilst traditional ride-share services like Lyft and Uber are not available in Mykonos, consider downloading either the iMove or DriveMe apps before you arrive on the island. These ride-hailing services offer convenient transportation options for visitors, especially when taxi waits can be lengthy during the peak tourist season.
Water taxis are another viable option for getting around the island – not to mention a fun one! Consider a water taxi for getting you to beaches on the southern and western parts of Mykonos. Water taxis operate on regular routes, the majority originating in the Old Port (Mykonos Town).
The Mykonos SeaBus connects the New Port (Tourlos) and the Old Port (Chora) of Mykonos Town. It also offers stops along the way at bus and taxi stations. The SeaBus is wheelchair accessible and costs 2 Euros per person, each way.
Other options for getting around Mykonos include biking (a superb option for those of you who like to focus on sustainable travel) and organized group excursions.
Exploring Mykonos Town
The whitewashed walls and bright blues of Mykonos Town
No visit to Mykonos would be complete without spending some quality time wandering the labyrinth of whitewashed alleyways that make up Mykonos Town (also known as Chora). I’m not sure we can really think of anything more picturesque: the cobblestone streets, the bright blue accents, and the bursts of purple and pink bougainvillea all blend seamlessly to create a classic Greek island aesthetic that’s visually striking and instantly recognizable.
Aside running your phone or camera’s memory close to empty during your visit - simply by wandering the charming streets – you may wish to consider intentionally stopping by some of the following attractions during your time in Mykonos.
Fun fact. The Greek word “chora” – another word for Mykonos Town – primarily translates to “country”, “land” or ”region” in English.
Little Venice
A view toward the old captains’ houses (Little Venice, Mykonos)
Without question, Little Venice is a showstopper. Here you’ll not only find a variety of bars, restaurants and shops, but also old captains’ houses with elegant balconies built right on the water’s edge, many perched dramatically overlooking the sea, their terraces almost kissing the waves.
Unique architecture, picturesque waterfront views of the Aegean Sea, and a lively atmosphere are what make up Little Venice’s allure. Keen to catch a brilliant sunset, perhaps with cocktail in hand? Charming, romantic Little Venice is the place to do it.
Windmills of Mykonos
Kato Mili: the windmills of Mykonos
A short walk south of Little Venice you’ll find another iconic feature of Mykonos Island: the Mykonos Windmills, or Kato Mili. These windmills stand proudly atop the hill overlooking the Chora, and can be seen from almost every point within Mykonos Town.
Fun fact. Most of the windmills face north, from where the island sources its strongest winds throughout the year. Did you know Mykonos is nicknamed “Island of the Winds”?
Fun fact. There were once over 600 windmills on Mykonos. Today, a total of only 16 windmills remain, spread throughout the island. You’ll find 7 windmills on the hill near the Chora – can you seek out the others?
The windmills were built primarily by Venetians in the 16th century, though construction of them continued through the early 1900s. They were predominantly used for milling wheat, and provided an important source of income for residents of Mykonos. Production of wheat on the island ceased in the mid 1900s, though today the windmills still stand tall and are a strong reminder of the island’s past – not to mention a superb place to catch sweeping views over the Aegean Sea and Mykonos Town!
Agricultural Museum (Mylos tou Boni)
Whilst we’re on the subject of windmills … those remaining today have been renovated, with some converted into museums. About a 10-minute walk east of the main set of windmills, you’ll find Boni’s Windmill – perhaps the most famous conversion of them all.
The 16th-century Boni’s Windmill today houses the Agricultural Museum of Mykonos, open to the public from May 1 through October 15, from 5pm to 9pm. Admission is free.
The only open-air museum in the Aegean, the Agricultural Museum displays the inner workings of this authentic (and still functioning!) windmill, together with a vast collection of agricultural tools, providing insights into the production of bread, wine and farm products during the pre-industrial era, as well as other aspects of island life at the time. Within the museum site you’ll also find the miller’s house and two small churches.
Insider tip. A special event – the Feast of the Grape Harvest – is held annually in the Agricultural Museum, on the second Sunday of September. If you time your visit just right, you might be able to catch it!
And yes, you guessed it – Boni’s Windmill also provides visitors another fantastic viewpoint over the Aegean Sea. It’s especially superb for sunset views!
Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
For another glimpse into the island’s past, consider a visit to the Archaeological Museum, about half a kilometer (0.33 of a mile) north of Boni’s Windmill, right on the edge of the harbor’s waterfront.
Established in 1902 and open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday during the Summer (June-October) from 9am to 4pm, and during the Winter (November-May) from 8.30am to 3pm, admission to the museum costs just 4 Euros.
The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos was originally founded to preserve the findings uncovered from a “purification pit” at the end of the 1800s, a hole that contained historic relics, vestiges, intricately designed urns and vases, and other vessels of offerings dating back thousands of years. Some artifacts on display have been documented as dating back as far as pre-historic times.
Insider tip. During your visit, make sure you scope out the museum’s most important artifact – the Mykonian Pithos. This ancient burial pot (or urn) once contained bones and, on the outside, artistically depicts scenes from the Capture of Troy. Scholars believe the Pithos dates back to the 7th century BC. It’s really quite something!
Also be sure to check out the grave stele that honors Glykon, the snake god and son of Protogenis, as well as that honoring Tertia Horariaos, an ancient Roman actress and dancer from the first century. You may also be interested in the Archaic Hydria, another intricately-designed vase recovered from the purification pit – you’ll find it right next to the stature of a flying Nike (no, not the sneaker – rather, the Greek goddess of victory).
Fun fact. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is one of the oldest museums in Greece.
Other Sites in Mykonos Town
Agia Anna Church (Mykonos Town)
Mykonos Town is also the island’s heart: a vibrant mix of cultural attractions, shopping, dining and entertainment, all set against the stunning blue backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Simply wandering the boutique-lined cobblestone streets and narrow whitewashed alleyways of Mykonos Town is a joy in and of itself. You’ll no doubt come across the Town Hall, as well as numerous small churches scattered throughout the village.
Love shopping? You’ll find everything you need (and maybe even some things you didn’t realize you need!) in the Chora: from local shops to high-end boutiques selling everything from designer brands and luxury goods, to handicrafts, souvenir t-shirts and windmills, jewelry, traditional clothing and linens, Mykonos-produced olive oil and soaps, and the famous Mykonos sandals. You’ll no doubt also stumble across an art gallery or two, where you can purchase unique, handmade artwork, ceramics and wood products by local artists.
Local artwork for sale (Mykonos Town)
Fun fact. Mykonos sandals are known for their quality and unique designs. All Mykonos sandals have three things in common: they must be handmade, they must be made of leather, and they must be Greek. You’ll definitely notice the difference between them and mass-produced sandals!
The Beaches of Mykonos
“Let’s head to the ocean!”
The coastline of Mykonos is a vibrantly-colored canvas of crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sands, lively social scenes, and iconic beach clubs. Whether you’re seeking an hour or a day of peaceful solitude, or an evening participating in a pulsating beach party, Mykonos’ diverse beaches offer something for every type of traveler. And whilst Mykonos Town itself doesn’t have any large, organized beaches, it’s an excellent base to begin exploring the island’s sandy coastline, all just a hop, skip and a jump away.
Along the southern coast of the island you’ll find the most well-organized tourist beach facilities – think beach accommodations, beach bars, restaurants, and a solid plethora of water sports on offer. A wee forewarning – these southern beaches can get very crowded during peak tourist season!
Insider tip. If you want to visit several beaches in one day, consider renting a car to get around the island. Alternatively, the most popular beaches are easily reached by water taxi and bus from Mykonos Town.
Paradise Beach
Less than 6km (3.73mi) south-east of Mykonos Town you’ll find Paradise Beach, known as one of the island’s main party hotspots. Easily accessible by bus, car or boat, it’s here you’ll find lively beach clubs and a non-stop party atmosphere – especially in the late afternoon and evening. It’s a stunning beach with a long stretch of white sand and tends to be a little quieter during the day.
Nearby – well, it looks close on a map, but you’ll have to head inland first, along some pretty winding roads – you’ll find the legendary Super Paradise Beach. Another stretch of perfect golden sand where the music meets the sea and the dancing never seems to stop. Dance, swim, drink … rinse and repeat!
Insider tip. Still want to suss out the party vibe of the southern beaches but aren’t too keen on the crowds? Consider visiting during the shoulder season.
Family-Friendly Options
Just a 4-minute drive north-west of Paradise Beach you’ll find the family-friendly Platis Gialos. Although also a lively beach, it doesn’t have the party atmosphere of the beaches further east, and still offers a wide range of activities (think swimming, sunbathing and various water sports) and amenities (think bars, restaurants, and beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent) for visitors.
Glitz and the Glamor
A little further west along the coast (but again, you’ll have to drive inland first to get there) you’ll come across Psarou Beach – the beach to be seen. It’s here that turquoise waters meet golden sand and stylish Greek and international celebrities rub shoulders.
Beaches for Adrenaline-Seekers
Kalafatis Beach, on the eastern side of the island (about a 20-minute drive from Mykonos Town) is a rarity amongst Mykonos’ beaches: it’s uncrowded, peaceful, and a mainstay for those seeking a more adventurous beach outing. Due to the strong off-shore breeze, it’s here you’ll find windsurfers, jet-skiers, water-skiers, wakeboarders and tube riders out at sea, enjoying the ride (and you can too!).
Kalafatis is another large, sandy beach with a relatively clean, unpolluted seabed, as well as toilets, changing rooms and outdoor showers. There are also lifeguards on duty, making it the perfect location for less-confident swimmers or for those with young families seeking a less party-oriented beach experience.
The Northern Coast
It’s along the northern coast of Mykonos that you’ll find the more secluded, laidback, tranquil beaches. You may wish to consider a visit to either Agios Sostis Beach or Agios Stefanos Beach, both of which provide visitors a far more serene beach experience. The northern coast does, however, come with a catch: there are not as many amenities on the north coast.
Insider tip. Whilst the majority of beaches on Mykonos Island offer free access to the public, some facilities – including renting beach chairs and umbrellas, or entering a beach club – may incur additional costs.
Greek Island Hopping and Boat Tours
Another reason you might just fall for Mykonos? Its prime location for island-hopping adventures throughout the Aegean Sea.
Island Hopping
Consider hopping aboard a private boat [link to Viator boat tour] or a group boat tour [link to Viator boat tour] to explore neighboring islands that include Paros (known for its stunning beaches and high-quality marble) and Naxos (also famed for its long, sandy beaches, alongside the Temple of Apollo, a giant marble doorway known as the Portara of Naxos – or the Great Door). A group tour will be more budget-friendly, but a private boat tour will afford you a far more personalized experience, with customized itineraries and activities.
Delos Island: The Sacred Island
If you have some extra time during your visit, consider a guided tour out to Delos island, south-west of the main island. Delos is an administration of the municipality of Mykonos, and in 1990 was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Insider tip. The only way to get to Delos island is by boat: either a private boat tour or as part of an organized, guided boat tour [link to Viator tour]. The trip takes about 30 minutes from Mykonos Town.
Though just a small, rocky island, Delos was once considered “the most sacred of all islands” in Greek culture. In fact, despite its small size at just 3.43 square km (1.32 square miles), Delos has always played a key role in the political, mythological and spiritual history of Greece. It was here that the twin Greek gods Apollo (god of light, music, art, healing and poetry – amongst other claims to fame) and Artemis (goddess of wild animals, the wilderness, hunting and childbirth) were born.
Fun fact. In ancient times, Delos was blessed with what was considered a strategic geopolitical and religious location, right in the middle of the Cycladic islands. “Cyclades” translates into English (roughly) as “those who encircle [Delos]” – the other islands literally form a circle around the sacred island Delos.
Once a thriving trading port and home to over 30,000 residents – many of them rich merchants, bankers and ship-owners from around the world – Delos is today uninhabited, dedicated instead to archaeological research. On Delos you’ll find the famed, extensive archaeological site (actually, the entire island is an archaeological site!) that conveys the image of a once-great, cosmopolitan Mediterranean port. Excavations began in 1872 and continue to this day, unearthing a significant portion of this civilized Hellenistic town: you’ll see numerous ancient artifacts and significant historical monuments, sure to impress every visitor. Delos is also home to one of the most significant museums in Greece – which is also one of only a handful of modern constructions on the island – complete with a vast collection of mosaics, artifacts and sculptures.
Fun fact. It was at the beginning of 1,000 BC that Delos first became a destination of worship for ancient Greeks.
Mykonos Boat Tours
You may also wish to consider circumnavigating the coastline of Mykonos itself – what a great way to gain a fresh new perspective on the island!
Local tour operators offer comfortable and spacious half- and full-day catamaran tours, sunset cruises (very romantic – the sunsets off the coast of Mykonos are really quite something!), charming wooden boat tours, and “lounge on the beach for a day” cruises, where you can visit the stunning southern beaches of the island.
Most tours will include drinks, a meal (often a barbecue or seafood lunch) and/or snacks, beach chair and umbrella rentals, as well as opportunities for snorkelling (all the gear is usually included), scuba diving, and other water sports that may tickle your fancy.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to carefully select a reputable company – this way you’ll be ensured professional captains and crews, and a safe and comfortable experience.
Mykonos Nightlife and Entertainment
Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant nightlife – I mean, it’s dubbed the “party island” for a reason, right? When each day’s sunset paints the sky in shades of red, yellow, orange and gold, Mykonos is just beginning to get its day started. This party island comes alive at night, with a vibrancy and urgency that’s both irresistible and unforgettable.
Whether you’re dancing on tabletops (hey, we’ve all been there, right?), sipping wine by the sea (did you know that Mykonos primarily sources and produces its own wine?), or enjoying a moonlit conversation with your travel partner (love you, babe!), this island delivers endless hours of nightlife magic.
Insider tip. Mykonos Island offers a gay-friendly scene and is a popular destination amongst the LGBTQ+ community. There are numerous gay bars and clubs spread throughout Mykonos Town.
Mykonos Town
Mykonos Town (Chora) is the heart of the island’s nightlife. It’s here you’ll find a plethora of bars, nightclubs and restaurants tucked into the labyrinth of narrow cobblestone alleyways, as well as along the waterfront in the charming neighborhood of Little Venice. The latter offers a more romantic – less party – nightlife experience.
Mykonos Town is a great place to begin your night out, exploring different spaces with diverse music (from international dance hits to classic Greek music) and equally diverse ambiances to find the one that best suits your style. The bars and restaurants in Chora are also the perfect place for those looking for a more intimate, yet equally electric, evening.
Super Paradise Beach
The southern beaches of Mykonos are famous for not only their daytime, but also their nighttime, party atmosphere. Head to Super Paradise Beach for a true party spectacle, where beach clubs and restaurants include live DJs, flowing cocktails, and exhilarating dance floors with the sand right beneath your feet. Not too far away, Paradise Beach continues the same energy well into the early hours of the following day.
Insider tip. Cavo Paradiso Club Mykonos, located at Paradise Beach, is perhaps the most legendary of all clubs on the island. It’s an open-air nightclub hugging a cliff top overlooking the Aegean Sea. Just wow!
Other Nightlife Opportunities
Mykonos also hosts several high-profile music festivals during the Summer, and even has its own open-air cinema (Cine Manto Mykonos). The 180-seat Cine Manto Mykonos is open from June through the end of September, and is actually part cinema, part botanic gardens. There’s also a restaurant on site, so you can enjoy a Greek souvlaki under the stars partway through the film!
Fun fact. Cine Manto Mykonos isn’t just home to a large movie screen, but also to a plethora of friendly cats, and a pond full of goldfish, water lilies and koi carp.
Scorpios – located about a 15-minute drive south of Mykonos Town – is another option that might be of interest to you. This chic, upscale beachfront property is known for its bohemian vibe, offering visitors local cuisine, unique cocktails and regular entertainment.
Yacht parties are something else you may wish to consider if you’re a night owl. Perhaps charter your own yacht for a party, and enjoy the open waters and scenery of the island’s stunning coastline.
Food and Drink: A Taste of Mykonos
Alegro Restaurant (Little Venice, Mykonos)
Mykonos offers visitors a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional Greek tavernas serving fresh, local meals to upscale international restaurants. The island’s food scene is a flavorful blend of tradition and innovation, with plenty of local Greek pride in every bite. Make sure you arrive hungry!
Consider trying some of the following during your visit:
grilled octopus
moussaka (a classic Greek layered casserole featuring eggplant, potatoes, a rich tomato-based meat sauce (usually lamb or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce)
souvlaki (a popular street food of marinated meat – usually lamb, beef or chicken – grilled on a skewer and often served wrapped in pita bread with your choice of sumptuous toppings)
baklava (a classic Greek delicacy: a rich, sticky, flaky pastry dessert made with layers of filo dough and filled with chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios) and then soaked in a sweet syrup – oh my!)
galaktoboureko (try saying that three times fast!) (another traditional Greek dessert, more like a custard pie)
Katerina’s Restaurant & Cocktail Bar (Little Venice, Mykonos)
If you’re like Mike and love a good vino, consider pairing your meals with a glass of crisp local wine (a reminder that Mykonos primarily sources and produces its own wine, making it an extra special treat!) or a shot of ouzo (a strong, clear Greek spirit with an anise flavor similar to sambuca – but smoother!).
Insider tip. For upscale dining experiences on the island, consider dining at Bill&Coo Gastronomy Project Restaurant (about a 6-minute drive south of Mykonos Town, famed for its seafood and local Mediterranean cuisine) or Zuma Mykonos (about a 6-minute drive north of Chora), known for its modern Japanese cuisine and prestigious atmosphere. These are the sort of places Mike really likes!
Take note, however. Dining in Mykonos isn’t just about sustenance and filling one’s belly with good food (though that’s always a bonus!). There’s no need to rush here – linger a little longer, savor a bit more flavor. Enjoy the moment, the view, the company.
Where to Stay on Mykonos Island
If you’re heading to Mykonos for more than just a day trip, you’ll have a lot of fun choosing the perfect place to lay your head for a night or two. Whether you’re seeking sleek, luxury, cozy charm – or anything in between – you’ll find it in Mykonos.
Insider tip. If you want to be in the heart of it all, consider staying in Mykonos Town, where you’ll be in close proximity to numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, attractions, and shopping opportunities.
Luxury hotels. If you’re looking to splurge a little, you might like the indulgent atmosphere at top hotels that include the 5-star Bill&Coo Mykonos, a mere 3-minute walk from Mykonos Town. Other 5-star options include the luxury resort Cavo Tagoo and the Four Seasons, all of which include breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea, world-class amenities, and white-glove service.
Budget-friendly options. There are plenty of apartments, boutique guesthouses and traditional Greek tavernas with individual rooms available for rent, spread throughout the island.
Peaceful retreats. Keen to find something a little more serene (as Beck might!) for your stay on the island? Consider heading inland or to a beachside location away from the party atmosphere of the southern mainstays. You may wish to stay, for example, in Ano Mera, just 15 minutes by road east of Mykonos Town: it’s in places like Ano Mera that you’ll find a more local, peaceful vibe.
Safety and Precautions in Mykonos
Overall, Mykonos is generally considered a safe destination for visitors – indeed, it is as safe as any other popular tourist destination in Greece. Violent crime is rare, and the island’s tourism infrastructure is designed to make you feel safe and comfortable.
Pickpocketing and theft are the most common crimes: we encourage all travelers to be mindful of their belongings and their surroundings, especially in crowded areas, on beaches, or during nights out. We also recommend visitors avoid walking alone in secluded areas, especially late at night (as would be the case anywhere in most places in the world!).
By exercising caution, and taking note of a few other tips we share below, you will no doubt have a truly safe and enjoyable visit to Mykonos Island!
Be mindful of your alcohol consumption: know your limits and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
Exercise caution when renting scooters or other small vehicles, and always wear a helmet.
Be aware of potential tourist scams that may include overpriced items, low-quality and fake souvenirs, and taxis overcharging for rides.
Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated – it can get hot on the island, especially in the midst of the Summer months.
Don’t forget that Mykonos is known as the Island of Winds. Some of the island’s winds are strong, dry, and often northerly gusts, affecting the Aegean region, especially during the Summer months. Check local weather updates before planning boat rides or beach outings.
Fun fact. The strong, dry, northerly gusts are known locally as the Meltemi.
Insider tip. Don’t be overly paranoid about any of the above precautions! Emergency services and local law enforcement are available throughout the island (and are very responsive!), and locals are more often than not happy to lend a hand.
Final Thoughts
The island’s official branding: “Magical Mykonos”
The island of Mykonos, Greece, is more than simply a destination — it’s a vibe, a love letter to the senses, and a celebration of life in all its most colorful forms. From the charming winding alleyways and spirited energy of Mykonos Town to the sun-drenched golden sands of the southern beaches, this “party island” is sure to enchant you (as it certainly did us!).
It’s on Mykonos Island where you’ll find elegance meets authenticity, where myth and archaeology collide, and where quiet mornings spent in secluded coves transform into animated evenings under star-streaked skies. Whether you’re drawn to the island for the lively ambiance of the southern beaches, the cultural and historical riches of Delos Island, the olive groves and the ancient churches of the countryside, or simply some time out on a sun lounger from the hustle and bustle of your life back home, you’ll find something special around every corner on Mykonos.
We promise this won’t be your last visit here.
Let the windmills guide you, the island’s history ground you, and the rhythm of the sea set your pace. Mykonos is calling – will you answer? It’s time to soak up all the magic this stunning island has to offer – let’s start planning your trip!
