Mykonos hits you like a fever dream — blinding white walls, electric blue domes, and a labyrinth of alleys designed to make you delightfully lost. It’s one of the most photographed islands in the Mediterranean, and somehow it still earns every shot. Whether you have six hours or a full day, this island rewards the curious.
Arriving by Ship
Mykonos operates two ports: the Old Port (also called Chora Port), a short walk from town, and the New Port at Tourlos, about 2km north of Little Venice. Larger cruise ships typically anchor offshore and tender passengers into the Old Port — a process that can take time, so plan your morning accordingly.
Once ashore at the Old Port, you’re essentially already in the action. The New Port has reliable taxi and bus connections into town, or you can walk the scenic coastal road in about 20–25 minutes.
Things to Do
Mykonos punches above its weight for a small island. Beyond the famous nightlife, you’ll find world-class beaches, genuine history, and enough wandering-worthy streets to fill an entire afternoon.
Landmarks & Culture
- Kato Myli Windmills — The island’s most iconic image, these 16th-century Venetian windmills sit on a hill overlooking Little Venice and are free to visit any time of day.
- Little Venice (Alefkandra) — A row of colourful 18th-century fishermen’s houses jutting directly over the sea; best visited in the late afternoon light when the colours glow amber.
- Paraportiani Church — One of the most photographed churches in Greece, this asymmetric whitewashed complex of five chapels dates to the 15th century and is free to enter during open hours (typically morning).
- Mykonos Town (Chora) — The winding marble-paved streets are worth exploring solo, but a guided walk gives you context and hidden corners you’d never find alone. 🎟 Book: Discover Authentic Mykonos
History
- Delos Day Trip — A 30-minute boat ride from the Old Port (roughly €20 return), the sacred island of Delos is one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites, home to a 2,500-year-old sanctuary of Apollo.
- Mykonos Agricultural Museum — A small but charming open-air museum near Ano Mera village showcasing traditional Cycladic farm life, free to visit and rarely crowded.
Beaches
- Paradise Beach — The island’s most famous party beach, about 6km from Chora; sun loungers cost €15–25 and the beach bars run all day.
- Agios Sostis — The quieter alternative, this undeveloped northern beach has no sun beds or music — just turquoise water and peace.
- Elia Beach — A long, sheltered stretch on the south coast popular with families; water sports rentals available from around €30.
What to Eat
Mykonian cuisine is rooted in Cycladic simplicity — fresh seafood, local cheese, and honey-drenched pastries that locals have been making for centuries. Skip the tourist-trap tavernas near the main square and walk a few streets deeper into Chora.
- Loukoumades — Greek honey puffs, crispy outside and doughy inside, sold at street stalls for around €4–5 a portion; look for them near the Old Port.
- Kopanisti — A sharp, spicy local cheese made only in the Cyclades; find it at traditional tavernas, usually served as a meze for €6–9.
- Fresh grilled octopus — Hung out to dry outside waterfront restaurants, then grilled over charcoal; expect to pay €15–20 at spots along the Old Port.
- Souvlaki — The quintessential Greek street food, and you can actually learn to make it yourself on the island. 🎟 Book: Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos
- Mykonian thyme honey — Drizzled over local yoghurt or cheese; sold at deli shops throughout Chora for around €8–12 a jar.
- Brunch at a local farm — A genuinely memorable way to taste island produce, from fresh bread to hand-rolled pastries. 🎟 Book: Mykonian Farm and Bakery Class with Brunch in Greece
Shopping
Mykonos has excellent shopping, but it requires some navigation between the designer boutiques and the genuine local goods. Focus your spending on Cycladic ceramics, locally produced olive oil, thyme honey, and handmade sandals — all things you won’t find at the same quality back home.
Avoid the mass-produced “Greek” souvenirs near the main ferry dock; instead, head to the backstreets of Chora where family-run shops sell hand-painted pottery and leather goods. Prices are negotiable in smaller shops, especially if you’re buying more than one item.
Practical Tips
- Currency — Greece uses the Euro (€); most shops and restaurants accept cards, but carry cash for smaller cafés and beach vendors.
- Tipping — Not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 10% is appreciated in restaurants.
- Getting around — Public buses (KTEL) are cheap (€1.80–2.50) and reliable, connecting Chora to major beaches throughout the day.
- Best time to go ashore — Tender queues peak at 9–10am; aim to be among the first off the ship or wait until 11am.
- How long you need — Six hours is workable for Chora, beaches, and a meal; a full day lets you add Delos.
- Sun protection — The Cycladic sun is fierce even in spring; bring SPF 50, a hat, and water.
- Dress code — Churches require covered shoulders and knees; carry a light scarf in your bag.
Pack your appetite, wear your most comfortable walking shoes, and let Mykonos’s marble lanes lead you somewhere unexpected.
🎟️ Things to Book in Advance
These highly-rated experiences fill up fast — book before you arrive to avoid missing out.
This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
📍 Getting to Mykonos, Greece
Use the interactive map below to explore the port area and plan your route from the terminal.
Leave a Reply