Travelgo.gr on assignment in Mykonos - The sights, the enchanting beaches and everything worth seeing and doing on Greeces most cosmopolitan island.
Its sparkle under the summer sun is unmatched and its beauty unique. Mykonos is known for its cosmopolitan life, yet it has so much more to offer its visitors. The island of winds and contrasts blends nightlife and entertainment with authentic Cycladic tradition and remarkable sights from antiquity.
From the chalk-white alleys of Mykonos Town to golden beaches with crystal-clear waters and archaeological sites, Mykonos is an island that offers holidays for every taste. It is not just a famous destination. It is an experience that calls us to live it with all our senses.
Mykonos forms an island cluster together with Delos, Rhenia and small rocky islets, and its history is lost in the centuries, as it was inhabited from the 5th millennium BC. It also played an important role during the Revolution of 1821, when the people of Mykonos, led by Manto Mavrogenous, took part in the struggle for liberation.
The picturesque Mykonos Town
One of the most impressive towns in the Cyclades, Mykonos Town looks like a movie set. Freshly whitewashed lanes, white houses, blue and red wooden doors and windows blend with the blue of the sky and the sea. Lose yourselves in its alleys and walk along the famous Matogiannia, Matogianni Street and the nearby lanes with boutiques and cafés.
You will come across white chapels and steps with wooden railings everywhere, as well as the Three Wells, which ensured in the 18th century the water supply of the area’s residents. In Manto Mavrogenous Square stands the statue of the heroine of the Greek Revolution of 1821, who was born and acted there.
Mykonos Town Hall
Facing the town’s shoreline stands the impressive building of the Mykonos Town Hall, a two-storey structure from 1780 that stands out among the Cycladic buildings thanks to its tiled roof. It served as the seat of the Russian Consul General of the Archipelago and in his honor took the name “Voinovitch building”. Today, it houses the Municipality’s services, and in its halls we can learn all about the history of the building and the island’s Mayors.
Little Venice
The island’s most iconic postcard-like image, Little Venice has been photographed by millions of visitors. The colorful mansions that seem to float on the sea were created in the 18th century by Mykonian merchants and captains who wanted to unload their goods straight from the ships.
Little Venice is also known worldwide as the spot to enjoy the island’s most beautiful sunset. In the distance to the left, you will see the imposing windmills gazing at the open sea - the hallmark of the island of winds.
The windmills of Mykonos
One of the island’s most emblematic landmarks and a symbol of its rural history are the famous windmills of Mykonos. On a small rise in the bay of Alefkandra, the mills with their white facades and conical roofs stand out, built mainly in the 16th century by the Venetians. Once, they were used to grind the grains that arrived from all over the Aegean. Today they have been restored and offer a unique backdrop for photos, ideal for admiring the sea view especially at sunset.
Panagia Paraportiani and the Kastro
The town’s most famous church, Panagia Paraportiani, stands at the entrance to the old Kastro quarter, next to the sea, and its name comes from the “side gate” of the medieval fortification. In essence, it is a complex of five all-white chapels built in different eras and on different levels, with the central one rising above the rest. Its dazzling white contrasts with the blue of the sky, creating the perfect setting for photos with the Aegean as a backdrop.
The Kastro of Mykonos, also known as the medieval settlement of the town, is the island’s oldest core and dates from the Venetian period. Built in a strategic position above the port around the 13th century, it had a defensive character and protected residents from pirate raids. The houses were integrated into the walls, creating an almost solid cluster of buildings with narrow alleys, tall structures and small windows. Today, a few of the original walls have been preserved next to Paraportiani and are visitable and open to the public.
The museums of Mykonos
For museum lovers there are several options in town. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos to admire, among other things, its collection of vases and ceramics from prehistoric to late Hellenistic times. The Aegean Maritime Museum is housed in a 19th-century Cycladic house next to the Three Wells and has operated since 1985. Its collection includes ship models, engravings, coins and ancient objects.
Built in the 19th century is also the Folklore Museum, known as “Lena’s House”, after its last owner, Lena Scrivanou, with objects from the daily life of the island’s residents and the home itself. An open-air folklore museum is also Boni’s Windmill at the Ano Myloi location, with wonderful views over the town. It is an annex of the Folklore Museum, and there you will see the traditional rural installations used in Mykonos for the production and processing of agricultural products.
The Archaeological Site of Delos
Delos, the sacred island of the ancient Greeks and birthplace of Apollo and Artemis according to mythology, lies opposite Mykonos and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is an open-air treasure trove of ancient Greek history. Bathed in Cycladic light, it was inhabited from the 3rd millennium BC and flourished particularly in the Hellenistic and Roman periods as a religious, commercial and cultural center of the Aegean. Today, it welcomes thousands of visitors from around the world who arrive daily by boat to admire it.
Ano Mera and Panagia Tourliani
The authentic traditional village in the heart of the island, Ano Mera, offers a tranquil experience away from the crowds. Locals gather in the square for food, coffee and family time. There you will also find one of the island’s most important sights, the impressive Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, a significant religious and historical monument dating from the 16th century. The monastery stands out for its elaborate baroque carved wooden iconostasis, about 10 meters long, crafted in Florence, its imposing bell and its distinctive blue dome.
Armenistis Lighthouse
One of the lesser-known attractions to the wider public is the Armenistis Lighthouse that dominates the northern tip of Mykonos on Fanari hill. Its panoramic view toward Tinos draws visitors who want to soak up the landscape’s serenity and the magnificent sunset. Built in 1891, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Cyclades and retains its authentic architecture to this day. You reach it via a path that requires particular care.
The island’s impressive beaches
Mykonos boasts some of the most impressive beaches in the Cyclades. There are countless options for every taste, from cosmopolitan and organized to quieter and more secluded shores. On the western side lies Agios Stefanos with unique views to Delos and Rhenia, while next to town you will find Megali Ammos. Windsurf lovers favor Korfos and head south to Agios Ioannis, with its sandy shore and little tavernas.
One of the island’s most popular beaches is Ornos, among the most visited settlements as it is sheltered, with crystal-clear waters and several beach bars. The glamorous Psarou is organized and has been in the spotlight since the 1980s. Platys Gialos is busy and Paraga is close to town. Paradise is famous for its sand parties, as is Super Paradise (or Plyntri). If you want a secluded beach, head to Agrari.
At Elia the waters are crystal-clear, as in Kalo Livadi. In Kalafatis you will also meet windsurfers, while at organized Lia the waters are calm. On the northern side are the more remote beaches such as Merchia, peaceful Fokos and Ftelia, where prehistoric remains of a Neolithic settlement have been identified. The beaches locals have preferred for decades are sandy Agios Sostis, which is not organized, and Panormos, which in recent years has gained great fame.
Local gastronomy
Mykonos is renowned for its local products. The island’s gastronomy is rich and authentic, brimming with the aromas of the Aegean and traditional flavors. Standouts include the famed kopanisti, the island’s spicy cheese, the renowned cured meat louza and the famous sausages that make for some of the best appetizers.
Accommodation
- The Adorno Beach Hotel & Suites awaits you on the sheltered beach of Ornos to offer you an unforgettable stay. Elegant bohemian luxury meets relaxation in suites with striking decor and views of the sea and the pool.
On Ornos beach with its crystal-clear waters you will find Omnia Boutique Hotel, which combines luxury with impressive Mykonian architecture. In a lush green garden you will enjoy dips in the pool while being just a few meters from the sea.
The elegant Kamari Hotel is ideally located between two beautiful beaches, Platys Gialos and Psarou. In a verdant garden you will enjoy strolls and pool swims while feeling the island’s authentic hospitality.
If you want to be by the sea and at the same time close to the sights, Icon Mykonos Hotel is ideal, as it sits in front of Megali Ammos beach on the edge of town. It offers stays with views of the endless blue in a tranquil location.
Right on Megali Ammos beach, in a privileged location, stands Mykonos Beach Hotel. This family-run business passes from generation to generation, with a long history since 1975, emphasizing hospitality and personal relationships with guests.
At the Grand Beach Hotel Mykonos, on Megali Ammos beach, you will experience ultimate relaxation in the luxurious rooms and at the pool with its stunning view of the Mykonos windmills. At the same time, you will be a breath away from town and the island’s famous sights.
Built on a hill in Mykonos Town, Marisso Hotel is in an ideal location to visit its sights on foot. For 30 years it has offered a relaxing retreat overlooking Mykonos’s whitewashed buildings and the famed windmills.
An unforgettable Mykonian stay awaits at Casa di Pietra, a contemporary resort in the Kluvas area just a few kilometers from town. The decor is minimal and inspired by the island’s rocky natural landscape, and the rooms have access to the hotel’s impressive pool.
A romantic stay with views of the sea and the sunset awaits at Mykonos Moussa Suites. It is located on Agios Ioannis beach, close to other popular beaches on the island, and offers seven wonderful, fully equipped suites for a comfortable holiday.
In a quiet location you will find Megusta Mykonos apartments, which provide all necessary amenities. Very close to Panormos beach and the island’s port, you will enjoy peaceful moments by the pool, savoring authentic hospitality and local flavors.
For a stay next to the port of Mykonos, choose the Spanelis Hotel. It is a family-run business that has won over travelers with its location and its services. The Cycladic courtyard makes a striking impression and will make you feel right at home.
For a private stay, choose the Blue Waters Mykonos villas on Ornos beach and in town. The residences offer uninterrupted views of the beach’s blue waters, with some right on the sand. Their Cycladic decor will impress you, combined with the comfort they provide.
If you are looking for a luxury hotel in a quiet location, Bianco a Nero is the ideal choice. It is near the airport in the Plyntri area, with easy access to some of the most popular beaches such as Paraga, Paradise and Super Paradise.
At Damianos hotel, with its minimal aesthetic, you will stay in a quiet spot just above Mykonos Town, which you can reach on foot. From the pool you will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the sunset.
The family atmosphere at Hotel Charissi Mykonos will win you over immediately. It is located in the Vrysi area, on a hill with lovely panoramic views of Mykonos town, the sea and the garden. At their restaurant you can enjoy local dishes based on traditional recipes.
Food, coffee & drink
On Ornos beach with its crystal-clear waters stands the all-day beach bar Aperanto Galazio. Start your day there with coffee and swims, try their tasty recipes for every palate, and in the evening sip your drink by the sea.
At Liastì Mykonos you will enjoy Lia, one of the island’s most impressive beaches. At the beach club you’ll find the perfect blend of nature, relaxation and elegance, and you can have coffee, drinks and Mediterranean dishes all day long.
For souvlaki and grilled meats, visit Local BBQ & Souvlaki, one of the locals’ favorite spots. It is in Argyraina, very close to Mykonos Town, and on the menu you’ll find everything from steaks and burgers to kontosouvli and tasty starters made with care.
Shopping
For your shopping, opt for Flora Supermarkets with their modern aesthetic and peerless design. You will find everything from local products at the delicatessen and premium items to the largest collection of rare and luxury drinks in its cellar, accompanied daily by DJ music selections.
Getting around
To get around the island, rent a car or scooter from Quattro Rent a Car Mykonos. It is in an ideal location at Tourlos port and offers a variety of vehicles for every need.
