Mykonos: travel guide
Mykonos is one of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades: an island that manages to combine traditional charm, unbridled nightlife and breathtaking landscapes. From the white and blue alleys of Chora to the most famous beaches of the Mediterranean, to postcard sunsets, Mykonos is the perfect choice for those looking for a mix of relaxation, fun and photography to share. Here are some tips for you on what to see/do on the most glamorous Greek island!
General informations
Mykonos is connected to many European cities through its international airport (JMK), with direct flights during the summer season operated by numerous airlines, including low-cost airlines. Alternatively, with a stopover in Athens, you can reach Mykonos in less than 45 minutes from the Greek capital. For those who want to get there by sea, the island is connected by numerous daily routes to Athens (Piraeus or Rafina) or from the other Cycladic islands such as Santorini, Paros and Naxos.
The island is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations of the summer season. This can mean that in high season (July and August) the island is taken by storm by thousands of people and visiting it at best can be particularly stressful. If you still love nightlife, those are the decisive months. For those who loved a little more calm, the months of June, September or even May and October can be for you. The climate of Mykonos makes summers hot and dry (and ventilated by Meltemi) for several months a year.
Another important aspect when planning a trip to Mykonos is the choice of where to stay. Chora (Mykonos Town) is perfect for nightlife, restaurants and shopping. Ornos and Platis Gialos, are ideal for families and couples, with equipped beaches and excellent restaurants. Psarou and Super Paradise are the top choices for those who want luxury, jet-set and exclusive beach clubs. Ano Mera is instead the most authentic area, for those looking for tranquility and tradition.
A structure that I recommend is the Saint John Hotel, a 5-star resort in Agios Ioannis, a few kilometers from Chora on the west coast where you can admire unforgettable sunsets, relax in the magnificent infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea and let yourself be pampered between luxury and haute cuisine.
What to do in Mykonos
1. Getting lost in the alleys of Chora (Mykonos Town)
The beating heart of the island is a maze of white cobbled alleys, with bright blue doors and windows, colorful bougainvillaea and trendy shops. Walking here at sunset is a magical experience: you can discover luxury boutiques, concept stores, but also small artisan shops where you can buy jewelry and typical products. Any advice? Stop at one of the many bars hidden in the alleys to sip a Greek coffee and observe the local life.
2. Admire the windmills
The famous Kato Mili dominate the hill overlooking Chora and are among the most iconic symbols of Mykonos. Built in the sixteenth century to grind wheat taking advantage of the winds of the Aegean, today they are no longer active but give one of the most beautiful views of the island. The best time to visit them? No doubt at sunset.
3. Walking in Little Venice
This picturesque neighborhood is reminiscent of Venice for its houses overlooking the water, with colorful balconies that touch the waves. It is the most romantic place in Mykonos: during the day it is perfect for postcard photographs, while in the evening it transforms with its cocktail bars overlooking the sea. From here you can experience some of the most spectacular sunsets on the island.
4. Discover the beaches of Mykonos
The island offers a variety of beaches for every taste:
Paradise and Super Paradise: ideal for those who love parties with international DJs, aperitifs at sunset and evenings that continue until dawn.
Psarou Beach: elegant and chic, frequented by celebrities and luxury lovers; here is the famous Nammos Beach Club.
Elia Beach: long, equipped and also perfect for families and couples. It also offers areas dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community.
Agios Sostis: one of the few beaches still wild, without umbrellas or locals. Don’t miss the Kiki’s tavern, famous for its simple and authentic cuisine.
Fokos Beach: isolated and quiet, ideal for those looking for relaxation and uncontaminated nature.
5. Excursion to Delos
Just 30 minutes by boat from Mykonos, the sacred island of Delos is a real open-air museum. According to Greek mythology, Apollo and Artemis were born here. You can visit the remains of temples, theaters and ancient houses decorated with still intact mosaics. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most fascinating excursions to do.
6. Visit Ano Mera
Far from the glamour and chaos of Chora, Ano Mera is a traditional village where time seems to have stopped. Here you can see the Panagia Tourliani Monastery, dating back to the 16th century, and have lunch in one of the typical taverns of the main square, tasting authentic dishes such as moussaka or souvlaki.
7. Take a boat tour
An alternative and spectacular way to experience Mykonos is to rent a boat or participate in a daily excursion. You can discover hidden bays, snorkel in the crystal clear waters and enjoy the sunset from the sea. Some tours also include stops in Rhenia, a little-known island and perfect for those who love tranquility.
8. Enjoy the nightlife
Mykonos is one of the world capitals of entertainment. Beach clubs such as Scorpios, Nammos and Principote offer unique experiences, including music, sunsets and champagne. In the evening, Chora comes alive with clubs like Jackie O’, perfect for an international and inclusive audience, or the legendary Cavo Paradiso, which hosts world-renowned DJs in a breathtaking location overlooking the sea.
9. Taste the local cuisine
In addition to trendy restaurants, Mykonos offers many traditional taverns where you can taste specialties such as kopanisti (spicy cheese typical of the island), grilled octopus and louza (aged pork). A dinner in a tavern overlooking the sea is a must for those who want to savor the real Greece.
10. Shopping and crafts
Mykonos is also a small shopping paradise: from designer boutiques to local craft shops, you will find ceramics, handmade sandals, silver jewelry and artistic souvenirs. Shops stay open until late at night, making shopping a perfect activity even after dinner.
The most instagrammable places in Mykonos
📸 The windmills of Chora – the symbol of the island, best at sunset with a fiery sky.
📸 Little Venice – colorful balconies overlooking the sea, perfect for romantic shots.
📸 Alleys of Mykonos Town – blue doors, white windows and pink bouganvillas: the ideal background for lifestyle photos.
📸 Church of Panagia Paraportiani – a white architectural masterpiece, one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades.
📸 Sunset from 180º Sunset Bar or Scorpios – boho chic vibes, cocktails and spectacular views.
📸 Psarou Beach – crystal clear sea, elegant sunbeds and yachts in the background.
📸 Agios Sostis and Kiki’s Tavern – rustic and authentic atmosphere, perfect for photos with a “local” flavor.
📸 Delos – ancient ruins and unique landscapes, a mix of history and nature.
📸 Infinity pools of luxury hotels – travel blogger shots between sky and sea.
📸 Blue domes of the Cycladic churches – scattered all over the island, give timeless iconic photos.
