Mykonos is a small, dry, windswept island in the Cyclades that since the 1950s and 1960s has become one of the Mediterranean's most famous destinations, first for artists and celebrities, then for international tourism. It is known for nightlife, a free and open atmosphere, also welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community, and high prices. But out of season and in inland villages it keeps a quiet charm.
Chora
The main town, Chora, is a maze of whitewashed lanes, built that way to confuse pirates, with colourful wooden balconies, bougainvillea and hundreds of chapels.
| Place | Why |
|---|---|
| Little Venice | Captains' houses built right on the sea, with bars over the waves at sunset |
| Kato Mili windmills | The row of 16th-century windmills on the hill, the island's symbol |
| Paraportiani | The most photographed white church, actually five churches joined together |
| Matoyianni | The main shopping street |
| Archaeological and folklore museums | Pottery from Delos and Rhenia and traditional island life |
| Petros the pelican | The island mascot since the 1950s; his successors stroll the harbour today |
Outside Chora, the village of Ano Mera has the monastery of Panagia Tourliani and a more authentic feel.
Beaches
| Beach | Character |
|---|---|
| Psarou and Platis Gialos | South coast, chic, with beach clubs and restaurants |
| Paradise and Super Paradise | The party beaches, with loud music |
| Elia | Long sandy beach, one of the finest |
| Kalo Livadi and Agrari | Quieter, with golden sand |
| Agios Sostis and Fokos | North coast, wild, no facilities |
| Ftelia | Windy, for windsurfing |
Nightlife and food
Evenings start with drinks in Little Venice, dinner in Chora and then bars and clubs in town and on the beaches until morning. Local specialities include kopanisti, a spicy spreadable cheese, louza (cured pork), almond amygdalota and kremidopita, onion pie. Restaurants range from fish tavernas in Ano Mera to luxury venues, with some of Greece's highest prices.
Delos
Half an hour by boat from the old port lies Delos, Apollo's sacred island and one of Greece's most important archaeological sites: an unmissable trip.
Getting there and around
The airport has flights from Athens and many direct summer flights. Ferries come from Piraeus and Rafina, the fastest option from Athens (2-5 hours), and from many Cyclades. The new port at Tourlos receives ferries and cruise ships. On the island buses serve the main beaches and Chora, sea taxis run along the south coast, taxis are few in high season, and cars and scooters can be hired.
See also the Cyclades and Delos.