Mykonos holidays: Exploring Greece's Famous Island - From Beautiful Beaches and Ancient Windmills to Hidden Gems, Local Transportation Tips and Best Places
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Mykonos is one of the Cyclades islands and is a Greek variation on the Ibiza theme. It is a paradise for party lovers: during the day the beaches are full of tanned bodies, and at night they all end up in the local clubs, where the music buzzes until dawn.
However, the island is not only good for white sands, celebrities and tireless partying. Anyone who spends a little time here will be imbued with the quiet charm of the street labyrinths of Chora, enjoy traveling along the country roads and admire the local cuisine, which is not inferior to any other Greek island.
Today I will tell you how to get to the island, what there is to see and do, what beaches there are, where to stay and other useful information for those who want to visit this place.
Mykonos - a liberated island in Greece: is it worth visiting
Mykonos is an island with beautiful nature and a trendy bohemian resort. It is considered one of the most expensive Greek islands in terms of recreation, and the number of tourists with unconventional orientation here clearly tends to the indicators of Spanish Sitges. Local landscape: low rocky hills, windmills, snow-white houses and narrow streets, many churches, nudist tourists and azure sea.
Mykonos has an interesting character, combining colorful style and cheerful atmosphere, cosmopolitan and romantic, as well as beautiful nature and clear sea. That is why celebrities (actors, athletes, artists, politicians), businessmen and party people of all stripes love to relax here.
Mykonos offers a whole range of tourist attractions diluted with gourmet cuisine and cultural events, making it one of the best summer resorts in Greece.
Panoramic view of the town of Chora in Mykonos
Relatively mild summers, warm seas, low humidity, famous sandy beaches, lots of interesting sights, a huge range of entertainment and, of course, a vibrant nightlife – all this will ensure you a fantastic vacation on the Greek fairy tale island of Mykonos.
You will be able to see the windmills on every Mykonos postcard, as well as other local attractions, including any of the 365 churches in the area.
The beach vacation in Mykonos is one of the best in Greece, and you can even visit a nudist beach if you wish. In the local nightclubs, the fun goes not only until dawn, but also much after it.
The windmills are the symbol of Mykonos island
How to get to Mykonos Island on your own
It is almost never a problem to get to Mykonos comfortably. You will have to get to Mykonos by sea or air.
By Airplane
Mykonos International Airport is located four kilometers from the island’s capital Chora . Two local air carriers launch planes to Mykonos every day from Athens, the capital of Greece. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes. In summer, charter flights of European airlines are added.
There are also airplanes from other Greek islands: from Rhodes, Chios, Crete, Mytilini and Samos. However, these flights are only available during the tourist season, i.e. during the summer months.
From the airport to any place on the island can be reached by cab.
It may be useful: bargain airfares to Mykonos can be found at this link
Mykonos Airport
In maritime transportation
From the two Athenian ports (Piraeus and Rafina), ferries also depart during the high season. The ferry sails for a long time, about five hours. A ticket from the first port costs 34.5 Euros per person.
From some other Greek ports there are also ferries, ships and boats, which can be used to reach the place faster.
You can also get to the island in a very exclusive way: by hovercraft. Such services are not provided by all travel agencies, and flights are not regular.
As for local water transportation, you can book a yacht or a ship to visit nearby islands or cruise along the coast of Mykonos.
One of the boats on the island of Mykonos
How to get around Mykonos
Island transportation includes buses and cabs. A more expensive option is to rent a car or an auto touring ATV.
Buses
Buses depart from three terminus stations:
- “Fabrika” (directions – Psarou, Platis Ialos, Paradise, Paranga);
- “OTE” (directions – Kalafati, Elia, Ano Mera);
- “Old Port” (destinations – New Port, Agios Stefanos).
As a rule, shuttle buses run at intervals of 2-3 hours. On them you can get to Mykonos airport, to any of the beaches, as well as go on a sightseeing tour around the island.
You can buy a ticket for the bus in the vending machine at bus stations, in stores, tourist stores and hotels. The daytime fare is cheaper, the night fare is 2 euros.
Cab and car rental
In total, there are about 30 cab cars on the island. Thus, sometimes you will have to wait quite a long time for the car you have ordered. The main cab stand in Mykonos is located in the main square in the capital of the island. By the way, the square is called Taxi Square. The cost of the trip depends on the distance.
In addition to the usual cab cars in Mykonos there are also water cabs (cab boats), which will take you anywhere on the island by sea.
Since there are not so many cabs on the island, it is better to rent a car for independent transportation.
You can book a car in Mykonos in advance. Upon arrival on the island, you will only need to show your voucher, credit card and driver’s license. The credit card is used as a security deposit for the car.
Traveling around the island by car, you can easily get to almost any place you are interested in, except for those where special excursions by jeep-safari are carried out.
You can also get around Mykonos on bicycles, mopeds and quad bikes.
You may find it useful: I told you more about renting a car in Greece in this article
Parking lot with rental cars, scooters and quads
Mykonos sights: what to see here
The center of all entertainment and recreation on the island is its namesake capital Mykonos, or, as it is also called, Chora. The city surprises literally from the first moments of staying there and, first of all, with its unusual architecture. Every street of Chora is a real attraction.
In the capital you should definitely visit such places as the church of Panagia Paraportiani, the quarter of Little Venice, the fish market, near which the local mascot – pelican Petros likes to wander in search of treats, and in the evening such popular night clubs as “Argo”, “Astra”, “Muses” and “Mercedes”.
However, the capital is not the only place where you will find plenty to do. Other resorts in Mykonos are also of interest to tourists.
I have selected for you a list of the most popular among tourists. And, of course, diverse.
Little Venice - the historical center of Mykonos
“Little Venice” is one of the most romantic places in Mykonos. This neighborhood of Chora is known for its elegant old houses with wooden balconies, built right by the water. “Little Venice” was formed in the 18th century and was built by local captains.
It is a great place to admire the sunset or watch the azure blue waves of the Aegean Sea crash delightfully against the white houses.
View from the sea on the outskirts of “Little Venice”
The windmills
Delightful snow-white buildings that the locals call Kato Milli. They are probably the main attraction of Mykonos, as all roads lead to them. Windmill towers appeared in this country in the 12th and 13th centuries.
The remaining of the twenty, 7 mills of the island stand in the area of Chora and Kastro. The circular mill structures, looking out to the open sea, have resisted the powerful gusts of the Cycladic winds for centuries.
It is not allowed to go inside, you can only take photos from the outside. The place is really spectacular, tourists take selfies in droves. You can soak up the beauty in the restaurant near the mills and admire the view of the sea.
From here you have an interesting view of Little Venice and the promenade, where the various houses seem to be peeking out of the water. It’s best to come early in the morning. You’ll probably come across a pelican. The birds are used to people and pose for photos.
The rows of white-washed windmills in Mykonos are the island’s calling card
The Church of Mother of God of Paraportiani
The Church of Paraportiani is one of the best places in Mykonos, and almost every tourist has a photo of it. It is called a pearl. It is an ancient and valuable architectural monument, which is definitely worth including in a trip to Chora.
A marvelous Christian church of the XVI-XVII centuries, without sharp corners, completely snow-white. Surprisingly there are no blue accents, typical of Greek architecture.
It is made in Cycladic style, consists of several chapels. It looks like nothing special, but against the background of blue sky and sea looks great. The entrance to the attraction is closed, you can only take pictures near it.
An interesting feature of this temple is that it consists of five small churches built next to each other. The oldest church dates from the 14th century, the others from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Snow-white Church of Paraportiani
Rarity Gallery
Rarity Gallery is a modestly sized contemporary art gallery.
Admission is free.
The local exhibits are created, if not by talented, then obviously witty people. Usually in such museums “works” resemble the labors of crazy artists, and here there is something to see. Mostly paintings and sculptures.
The interior of the attraction is stylish: white walls and arches contrast with a dark, almost black ceiling made of wooden beams. Every year from May to October, seasonal summer exhibitions presenting Impressionist works are held.
Works by nationally renowned artists such as David W. Ellis, Fabio Aguzzi, Luciana Abate, Hanneke Beaumont, Charles Behl, Fotis and others are exhibited here. Find the gallery in the center of Towne, on Calogera Street.
The entrance to the gallery and the very same guard inside
Shopping street Matogianni
As the locals say, all roads lead to Matogianni. The street is cramped. Tourists maneuver among white houses, cozy shops, artists’ workshops and pink bougainvillea bushes. There is something to eat and connoisseurs of antiques.
Stairs and shutters are painted in blue or red colors, very beautiful. On Mykonos goods are more expensive than on neighboring islands. This is especially noticeable on ceramics and jewelry.
On Matogianni street you can buy all sorts of useful (and not so useful) little things, in general, everything from souvenirs to clothes. There are also boutiques of world famous brands: Lacoste, Victoria’s Secret, Juicy Couture. And where without bars, restaurants and dance floors! Here life is boiling at any time of the day, even deep in the night it lives and breathes.
Tight shopping street Matogianni Street
Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm
An authentic place where you will enjoy all the flavors of true Greece. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle and respect wine, then Vioma Farm is a must visit!
The hospitable daughter of the owner gives a tour and shows and tells you everything in detail. Wine tasting here is unthinkable without Greek appetizers: sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, carbonate.
Entrance to the organic farm (Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm)
Outdoors right on the plantation, you’ll enjoy it all to operatic arias. At first, the farm may seem strange and a bit dilapidated, but after meeting the charming family, you will appreciate the discreet rural beauty. The pleasure will come out to about fifty euros for two people, and the memories will be priceless.
It may be useful: see all Mykonos farm and homestay tours at this link
Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm Snacks (Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm)
Beaches of Mykonos Island
The main draw and attraction of this Greek island is, of course, the beaches. In Mykonos, the beaches can be very different from each other. There are both wild beaches for surfers and super modern beaches, equipped with the latest fashion, where you can call a waiter at the touch of a button on a sunbed.
Elia Beach
Elia Beach is probably not only the longest but also the most beautiful beach of Mykonos island. It has a very good bottom when entering the water. In general, Elia has coarse yellow sand, but in some places there are coarse pebbles, especially at the water’s edge. There are always buses here, although it is quite rare. A ticket costs about 2 euros. The bus leaves from the station in the old harbor area.
Elia is a very clean, yet crowded beach (although Paradise is even more crowded with tourists). Parking and a restaurant can be found nearby. For the entrance, two sunbeds and an umbrella will have to pay 40 euros, on the first line by the sea – 50. You can have a snack in beach restaurants. There is a service of taking food and drinks out of the institution. The food is varied and tasty. The sea and sand are very clean.
At the far end of Elia nudist zone, where come to swim and sunbathe and gays. Prices for snacks, water and alcohol are certainly overpriced, but this is due to the lack of competition. In general – a good, not overcrowded beach.
Elia Beach
Agios Sostis Beach
A rather secluded beach, away from the main tourist routes of Mykonos. Unlike the larger beaches of Agios Sostis, it is not lined with beachside cafes and bars, and there are no establishments on the beach. There are no sun beds, umbrellas or restaurants (there is only one tavern, but not on the beach itself, but a little higher up).
A great place for a “savage” vacation. One of the best northern beaches of the island, which will give you a feeling of complete unity with nature. The sea is calm despite the wind.
The beach is a 20 minute drive from the center of the island, but it is easy to find (just 1 km from Panormos beach with Principote beach restaurant). There is a parking lot above the beach, but it is always full, so the best solution is to just park your car on the side of the road above the beach.
This quiet beach is perfect for couples and romance
Platis Gialos
One of the most luxurious beaches in Mykonos. It seems that couples who are accustomed to luxury like to relax here. There is a sufficient number of cafes and restaurants. Mykonos Island in Greece attracts many tourists, because it is a great place for a vacation. If you have the strength to get up before dawn, you can swim in the warm sea alone.
Yellow fine sand, clean water, stores and bars nearby – what else is needed? Everything here breathes comfort. On Platis Yalos Wi-Fi is available in the area of sun loungers, there is an opportunity to take food with you – takeaway.
Prices here are overpriced, relative to other beaches in Mykonos. Depending on the establishment you decide to stay at, renting two sun beds with an umbrella will cost from 20 to 80 Euros.
It is a good wide sandy strip, the entrance to the water is gentle. The only disadvantage is that there is no free zone, so those who came with their towel, are located in front of the first line of sunbeds.
From here there are boats to other beaches in the southern part of the island. On the downside, there are a lot of vendors selling fake Rolexes and leather bags a la Louis Vuitton.
You can get to Platis Yialos from Mykonos Town by bus for 2.3 euros.
Shoreline and sunbeds of Platis Gialos beach
Super Paradise Beach
Super Paradise is located in a picturesque deep lagoon. Public transportation didn’t go here before, so it was always a quiet place. But recently the beach has changed: shuttle buses and boats went to Super Paradise by sea. By car the beach is not difficult to find, if you pay attention to the signs on the road. There is a shuttle from the city to this place (9 Euros round trip).
A terrific bar has opened on the place of a usual cafe, a restaurant with live music has grown in the center of the beach. New comfortable sun beds and umbrellas (though not cheap – 30 Euro for a pair + umbrella). There is a volleyball court, shower. The entrance is free. The sea is wonderful, the sand is excellent. There are a lot of people, but not so many that you have to look for a place between them.
Super Paradise Beach, it is very crowded in high season
Dancers delight the vacationers with their art, in the evening they are entertained by presenters in thongs. In general, the place is not flashy, but fun, more for young people and large companies. Although in the evenings at the discos you can meet and fiery European old men.
A party on Super Paradise Beach, you won’t be bored here for sure
Paranga Beach
A small beach that can be reached by bus from Fabrika station. It is easy to reach and park and by car. The highlight of the beach is the absence of complexes. For some people it will surely be remembered as a beach of lechers.
Even if you look at photos from Mykonos, you can see that sunbathing topless there is the norm. But on this beach people lie completely naked, and there are quite a few of them. That’s why I don’t recommend to come with children, unless you have the same loose morals.
There is a spacious area for free sunbathing, good entrance to the water. Quiet bay, almost no waves. The sea is crystal and the atmosphere is relaxed. There is a place to have a snack.
At a distance of a few meters from the shore is a huge rock. You can swim up to it and climb up to sunbathe. There is a boat-taxi to the neighboring beach Paradise. Platis Gialos is also nearby. In general, you can spend the whole day here.
Paranga Beach in Mykonos
My practical tips for those who want to visit the island of Mykonos
- The resort season in Mykonos runs from May to October. The high season is July and August, so the optimal time for a more budget or relaxed vacation would be June and September.
- During the high season, the town of Mykonos and the southern beaches are most in demand, which are often crowded at this time. The rest of the island remains quiet and secluded.
- Mykonos’ only form of public transportation is buses. The routes are varied, but leaving your hotel by bus in the evening is not worth it. The interval of movement is quite long, so you can wait at the stop for an hour or more.
- Cabs are also a pain. Calling on the phone doesn’t mean you’ll get a car quickly. So the general advice if you live in town is to look for nightlife closer to where you are staying.
- For those living in Town, the most convenient way to get to the beach is by rented motorcycle or car. You can also wait for public transportation, which goes to the beach at noon and 2 pm.
Hotels in Mykonos: Where to stay on the island if traveling independently
There are hotels of all categories on Mykonos, but the total number of hotel rooms on the island is very small, so it is better to book for the “high” season (July-August) at least three months in advance.
If money is not an issue, then it makes sense to settle in one of the high-class beach hotels, which have all the attributes of elite vacation on the Greek islands: elegant curves of architectural forms, swimming pools with excellent views, chic interiors, beamed ceilings and open terraces, ovetvetvetvetvayushe light breeze from the Aegean Sea.
Most such hotels are concentrated around the south coast beaches, such as in the Platis Gialos area.
Excellent hotel options:
- Nissaki Boutique Hotel;
- Palladium Boutique Hotel;
- Branco Mykonos.
More frugal party seekers can stay at the Paraga Beach Hostel, which offers budget accommodation.
Otherwise, there are plenty of accommodation options around Chora to suit all tastes and budgets:
- from the budget My Cocoon Hostel and Hotel Matina with beautiful gardens;
- to the stylish Bill & Coo Coast Suites and the modern Semeli Hotel.
You may find it useful: see all available hotels and apartments in Mykonos at this link