Best Things to Do in MYKONOS (GREECE)
Are you planning to visit Mykonos, and want to know what are the best things to do in Mykonos?
Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands. Known for its party scene, it is the place to go for young travellers. Mykonos is the “party animal” of the Cycladic islands and Greece’s answer to Ibiza, as described by Lonely Planet. It’s also a popular honeymoon destination.
As Mykonos is a small island, nothing is really far away. The island’s biggest attraction is the beaches. They’re gorgeous, and there are more than 20 of them dotting the island’s coasts. Most of the important cultural landmarks are located in and around the main town, Chora.
If you are planning a trip to Mykonos, check out our article for some travel inspiration!
7 Best Things to Do in Mykonos
Wander Around Chora (Mykonos Town)
The whitewashed harbour town, Chora, is one of the best places to visit in Mykonos.
Chora (also called Mykonos Town) is the picture-perfect capital of the island. It features pretty whitewashed houses with bright blue accents and narrow pedestrian streets. Head there for shopping and an amazing dining experience.
Explore its maze of little narrow pedestrian streets and marvel at the town’s little white churches and lovely houses with colourful doors, windows and balconies. The main street of the town, Matogianni is lined with designer stores, souvenir shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars. It is the longest shopping street in Mykonos.
Do not miss the Church of Panagia Paraportiani which probably is the most famous church on the island. The church is located in Chora’s Kastro neighbourhood. Its construction started in 1425, but the church was completed only in the 17th century. This imposing church actually consists of 5 separate churches which are joined together.
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Mykonos and Greece, visit the Archaeological Museum, Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folk Museum of Mykonos.
Visit the Flour Mills of Mykonos (Kato Myloi)
In the main town of Mykonos, Chora, you’ll find another iconic landmark of the island.
It’s a group of 7 historic grain windmills the most notable being Kato Myloi.
Kato Myloi is 5 identical mills situated on a hill overlooking the coast. They are a well-known photography spot and one of the most iconic places to visit in Mykonos. Built by the Venetians, the windmills are an important historical landmark.
All 5 windmills have the same round shape with a pointed roof and small windows. All are painted white.
Windmills like these are found on other Cyclades islands too.
Stroll Around Alefkandra (Little Venice)
Little Venice is a quieter and more upmarket neighbourhood of Mykonos town.
It is home to a plethora of chic restaurants and cafes that cater to a “more sophisticated” crowd. Known for its stunning views of the sea, Little Venice is a famous sunset spot in Mykonos.
Watching the sunset while sipping a cocktail in one of the sea-front restaurants of Little Venice is one of the best things to do in Mykonos.
Do not miss Mykonos Old Harbour (Old Port). Located a short walk from Little Venice, it is occupied by cafes, bars, restaurants and shops. It is a lively area, and one of the best places for dining.
Go on a Day Trip to Delos
Delos is an island located next to Mykonos.
It is considered to be one of the most important historical, and archaeological sites in all of Greece. The excavations on Delos are among the best and most extensive in the country. Due to the importance and richness of the excavations, the archaeological site was added to the World Heritage List by UNESCO.
Some of the most notable landmarks in Delos are the theatre, the Terrace of the Lions, the House of Dionysus, and one of the main markets, Agora of the Competaliasts, which dates back to the 2nd century BC.
Delos is also known for its Panther mosaic which dates back to the 2nd century BC and early 1st century BC. You can see it in the House of Dionysus, a luxurious 2nd-century house.
Taking a boat trip to the archaeological site of Delos is one of the best things to do in Mykonos.
Explore Ano Mera Village and the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
Ano Mera is a small and quiet inland town.
It is the second-largest town on the island, after Mykonos Town. Also, Ano Mera is one of the oldest towns in Mykonos.
Located in the middle of the island, away from the island’s main tourist sites, Ano Mera is not a very popular destination for tourists. But it doesn’t mean that it’s not worth a visit. Head to Ano Mera to see the other side of Mykonos and get to know the island from another point of view.
Near the town is the restored 16th-century monastery, Panagia Tourliani. It has a great collection of holy icons and paintings. The monastery boasts a beautiful courtyard with a bell tower and marble fountain.
Relax on the Beaches of Mykonos
Beaches are the most important attraction in Mykonos.
There are more than 20 beaches on this small island.
The best ones are:
- Kalafatis Beach — one of the best beaches on the island, good for water sports;
- Paradise Beach — a lively beach and party destination;
- Psarou Beach — a luxurious getaway;
- Paraga Beach — a beach with trendy cafes and restaurants;
- Ornos Beach — one of the best beaches for families;
- Agios Ioannis Beach — a beach with transparent waters great for snorkelling;
- Agios Sostis Beach — a small and quiet beach with clear water;
- Paralia Ftelias Beach — a windsurfer’s “paradise”;
- Kapari Beach — a small, beautiful beach set in a cove;
- Panormos Beach — is one of the quietest and most relaxed beaches on the island.
Visit Armenistis Lighthouse
Head to Armenistis Lighthouse for great views!
It’s a functioning lighthouse perched on top of a steep hill offering sweeping views of the sea and neighbouring islands. The lighthouse is one of the best places to visit in Mykonos for those who love off-the-beaten-path destinations.
It is also one of the best sunset points on the island.
Despite this fact, it doesn’t get crowded- so it’s a plus!
Mykonos Travel Tips
- You can get to Mykonos by plane from Athens or various destinations in Europe, or by ferry from different Greek islands.
- Greek cuisine is amazing. The food is mouth-watering and super filling. For the best dining experience — go where the locals go. The greatest meals travellers have had while travelling in Greece were from local tavernas.
- As Mykonos is a popular holiday destination, it may get very crowded (and more expensive!) during the high season. If you don’t like crowds and would like to save money, visit Mykonos during the shoulder season (May, June, September, and October) when the island experiences fewer crowds.
- If you travel during the high season (July to early September), book accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance.
- Carry cash. Many traditional Greek tavernas and shops do not accept credit cards. Also have coins and small bills ready for public transportation.
- The euro is the official currency in Greece.
- The bus is the cheapest way to get around Mykonos. Buses operate to all main towns, beaches and attractions of the island. There are two main bus stations on Mykonos.
- Rent a scooter for flexibility. As Mykonos is a small island, nothing is really far away.
- Island hopping is one of the best things to do in Greece. Do not limit yourself to visiting only one island. Combine a trip to Mykonos with a trip to another Greek island (Santorini, Crete, Naxos etc.).
