If you’re dreaming of dazzling whitewashed streets, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches bathed in turquoise waters, then Mykonos should be at the top of your Greek island itinerary. I recently explored this lively Cycladic gem and want to share everything you need to know—from where to stay and how to get there, to the best things to do and insider tips for making the most of your visit.
Where To Stay In Mykonos
Mykonos offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit all tastes. For those seeking luxury and beautiful views, the area around Psarou Beach is ideal. Mykonos Town (Chora) is the lively heart of the island with charming narrow streets full of shops, bars, and restaurants. If you want a more relaxed vibe, consider staying near Ornos or Agios Ioannis, where you can enjoy quieter beaches and cozy tavernas. For party lovers, staying close to Paradise or Super Paradise Beach means you’re steps away from some of the island’s most famous clubs.
Best Mykonos Tours
To experience Mykonos beyond the beaches and nightlife, I recommend joining some guided tours. A boat tour around Delos Island, the sacred archaeological site nearby, is fascinating for history buffs. Sunset sailing trips offer stunning views and a relaxing vibe. You can also find food and wine tours that introduce you to authentic Greek flavors and local specialties. For the adventurous, Jeep safaris explore the rugged interior and hidden beaches of Mykonos.
Where Is Mykonos Island?
Mykonos is part of the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, northeast of Santorini and southeast of mainland Greece. Known for its iconic windmills, vibrant nightlife, and cosmopolitan feel, Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek islands for travelers seeking both culture and fun.
How To Get To Mykonos Greece
Mykonos has an international airport with frequent flights from Athens and many European cities, especially during the summer. Ferries also connect Mykonos to Athens (Piraeus port), other Cycladic islands, and the mainland, providing scenic and leisurely access.
Transport: How To Get Around On Mykonos
The best way to explore Mykonos is by renting a scooter, ATV, or car. Public buses connect major beaches and towns but can be infrequent. Walking is great within Mykonos Town, but to fully enjoy the island’s diverse beaches and villages, personal transport is recommended.
Best Things To Do In Mykonos Greece
1. Mykonos Town (Chora)
Mykonos Town, or Chora as the locals call it, is the vibrant heart of the island. Walking through its maze of narrow cobbled streets, you’ll be surrounded by classic Cycladic whitewashed buildings with bright blue doors, colorful bougainvillea, and lively shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to designer labels. The town is known for its charming windmills standing proudly on a hill overlooking the harbor — a must-see for any visitor.
At night, Chora transforms into a bustling hotspot, packed with bars, clubs, and beachfront restaurants. For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine with a modern twist, try M-eating, a cozy and elegant restaurant just off the main square. For coffee or a light bite, Loft Coffee Mykonos offers great brews in a stylish setting. If you want something casual, stop by Kiki’s Tavern just outside town — it’s a hidden gem famous for grilled meats and fresh salads, though it doesn’t take reservations, so come early!
2. Little Venice
Little Venice is one of Mykonos’s most romantic and picturesque neighborhoods, located right on the water’s edge. The colorful balconies hanging over the sea create a fairy-tale atmosphere, especially at sunset when the sky lights up in golden hues. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely evening drink or a romantic dinner.
For cocktails with a view, Caprice Bar is legendary — order a signature cocktail and grab a seat on the waterfront terrace to watch the boats gently bobbing in the harbor. For dinner, Nammos is a luxurious beach club and restaurant just a short walk away in Psarou, offering fresh seafood and a glamorous vibe. If you prefer something more low-key but still atmospheric, Alefkandra serves delicious Greek tapas right in the heart of Little Venice.
3. Delos Island
A short ferry ride from Mykonos, Delos Island is an archaeological treasure and one of Greece’s most important historical sites. This sacred island was believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and was a bustling religious center in ancient times. Walking through its well-preserved ruins, including temples, ancient marketplaces, and mosaics, feels like stepping back into history.
Since Delos has no accommodations, it’s best visited as a day trip from Mykonos. The guided tours are highly recommended because the history is rich and detailed. After your visit, you can relax at one of the nearby beaches back in Mykonos Town or grab a meal at Kiki’s Tavern on your return — it’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
4. Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is famous worldwide for its vibrant party scene and crystal-clear waters. The beach draws a young, energetic crowd eager to dance to international DJs and enjoy beach clubs like Cavo Paradiso, which is considered one of the best open-air clubs in the world. If you’re into music, nightlife, and socializing, this is your spot.
During the day, Paradise Beach offers sunbeds, watersports, and beach bars where you can relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere. For a casual meal right on the sand, Tropicana Beach Bar serves great cocktails and light bites. If you want something more upscale nearby, head to JackieO’ Beach Club & Restaurant for fabulous food, cocktails, and themed parties.
Insider Tips for Dining and Cafés Nearby
- M-eating (Mykonos Town): Modern Greek cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Perfect for a romantic dinner or foodies looking for authentic flavors with a creative touch.
- Loft Coffee Mykonos: A great spot for specialty coffee, pastries, and a relaxed vibe during the day. Ideal for a morning or afternoon break while exploring Chora.
- Kiki’s Tavern: Located near Agios Sostis Beach, this rustic tavern has no electricity but serves some of the best grilled meats and salads on the island. It fills up quickly, so arrive early!
- Caprice Bar (Little Venice): Perfect for a sunset cocktail with unbeatable views of the sea and vibrant nightlife starting here as the evening unfolds.
- Alefkandra (Little Venice): A cozy spot for sharing Greek meze and seafood tapas with a relaxed, local feel.
- Nammos (Psarou Beach): Luxurious dining with celebrity sightings, known for fresh seafood and an upscale beach club atmosphere.
- Tropicana Beach Bar (Paradise Beach): Casual and fun, perfect for daytime parties, cocktails, and light snacks.
- JackieO’ Beach Club & Restaurant: A stylish spot with great food and lively themed events, ideal if you want to combine dining and nightlife.
More Things To Do In Mykonos Greece
- Ano Mera Village
Escape the crowds and explore this traditional village with a charming main square, local tavernas, and the impressive Panagia Tourliani monastery. - Armenistis Lighthouse
Located on the northern tip, this lighthouse offers spectacular views over the Aegean Sea and nearby islands. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for a scenic drive. - Psarou Beach
Famous for its luxury beach clubs and crystal-clear waters, Psarou is where celebrities often hang out. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. - Super Paradise Beach
Similar to Paradise but with a slightly more relaxed vibe during the day, this beach has excellent beach bars and a diverse crowd.
Best Mykonos Beaches
Mykonos boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Psarou and Ornos are great for luxury and calm waters, while Paradise and Super Paradise are party hubs. Agios Sostis and Fokos beaches offer quieter, more natural settings away from the crowds.
Map Of Mykonos Island
Grab a map or download an offline app before your trip to navigate easily between beaches, villages, and landmarks. This is especially helpful if you rent a scooter or car.
Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Mykonos Greece
Mykonos is famous for its magical light during sunrise and sunset, which turns the island into a golden dreamscape. Whether you’re an early riser chasing the first light or prefer to unwind with a spectacular sunset, here are the top spots where you’ll want to be:
1. Little Venice
One of the most romantic and iconic places on the island, Little Venice is perfect for sunset. Located right on the waterfront, the colorful balconies hang over the sea, creating an unforgettable backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon. The atmosphere here is electric, with bars and cafes buzzing as visitors sip cocktails and watch the sky turn shades of pink and orange. Arrive early to grab a front-row seat at one of the terrace bars and soak in the view.
2. The Windmills of Mykonos
Just a short walk from Little Venice, the row of historic windmills on a hilltop provides an incredible vantage point for both sunrise and sunset. From here, you get panoramic views over Mykonos Town, the sea, and the endless sky. The windmills themselves add a classic Cycladic charm, making this a favorite photo spot.
3. Armenistis Lighthouse
Located on the northern tip of the island, Armenistis Lighthouse is a quieter and less crowded spot perfect for peaceful sunrise or sunset moments. The lighthouse overlooks the sparkling Aegean Sea and nearby islands, offering sweeping views that are especially beautiful as the sun rises or sets. Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy here.
4. Agios Sostis Beach
For an early morning sunrise with fewer crowds, head to Agios Sostis Beach on the north side of the island. This pristine, less-developed beach is serene and perfect for watching the sun emerge over the calm waters. The natural beauty and quietness make it a special place to start your day.
5. Kalafatis Beach
Located on the southeast coast, Kalafatis Beach offers a stunning sunrise view. The beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and golden sand, which glow beautifully under the morning sun. It’s a great spot for a peaceful swim right after sunrise.
6. Panormos Beach
Panormos is another great spot on the northwest coast to catch the sunset. The beach has a relaxed vibe and is surrounded by hills, which frame the sun as it dips behind the horizon. Many beach bars here offer seating areas that face west, ideal for enjoying the colors of dusk with a refreshing drink.
7. Ftelia Beach
For a more off-the-beaten-path sunrise or sunset, Ftelia Beach on the northern coast is perfect. Known for its strong winds, it’s popular with kite surfers during the day, but at sunrise and sunset, it’s peaceful and beautiful, offering uninterrupted views of the horizon.
Other Mykonos Tips
- Book accommodations and restaurants early, especially in July and August.
- Try local dishes like kopanisti cheese and fresh seafood.
- Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
- Public buses are cheap but may not run late into the night.
Is Mykonos Safe?
Mykonos is generally very safe for tourists. Usual travel common sense applies, especially when enjoying the nightlife or crowded areas.
Mykonos On A Budget — Is It Possible?
While Mykonos is known for its luxury, budget travel is possible by staying in less touristy areas, eating at local tavernas, and using public transport. Visiting outside peak season can also reduce costs.
How Long To Stay In Mykonos Greece
I recommend 3 to 4 days to explore the main sights, enjoy the beaches, and soak up the nightlife without rushing.
Sample Itinerary For Mykonos
Day 1: Explore Mykonos Town and Little Venice
Day 2: Day trip to Delos Island and relax at Psarou Beach
Day 3: Beach day at Paradise or Super Paradise, nightlife in town
Day 4: Visit Ano Mera Village and Armenistis Lighthouse
Best Time To Visit Mykonos Greece
The best time to visit is late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October), when the weather is warm, and crowds are smaller. July and August are lively but busy and expensive.
Mykonos Hotels
From luxury resorts and stylish boutique hotels to budget guesthouses, Mykonos offers a wide range of accommodations. Book early during peak season to secure the best options.
Popular Hotels in Mykonos
Palladium Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropicana Hotel , Suites & Villas Mykonos ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poseidon Hotel Suites ⭐⭐⭐⭐
More Greece Travel Guides
If you’re planning to explore more of Greece, check out my guides on Santorini, Athens, and Crete for tips and inspiration.
Mykonos is vibrant, beautiful, and endlessly fun — whether you want to party till dawn or unwind on a secluded beach. I hope this Mykonos Travel Guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. If you want personalized recommendations or itinerary help, just ask!
