Mykonos Travel Guide – Discover Greece’s Glamorous Island Paradise

Welcome to Mykonos, one of the most iconic islands in the Cyclades and a favorite destination for luxury travelers, party lovers, and cultural explorers alike. Known for its chic vibe, cosmopolitan flair, stunning beaches, and postcard-worthy whitewashed villages, Mykonos effortlessly combines natural beauty with high-end elegance.
 

Whether you’re dancing till dawn in beach clubs, getting lost in the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, or admiring the charm of the famous windmills, the island promises unforgettable experiences.

📚 Table of Contents

Why Visit Mykonos

History & Culture

Mykonos Town (Chora)

Top Beaches in Mykonos

Things to Do and See

Mykonos for Nightlife Lovers

Culinary Delights

Where to Stay

Day Trips and Excursions

Getting There and Around

Best Time to Visit

Travel Tips

Final Thoughts

✨ 1. Why Visit Mykonos?

Mykonos is one of Greece’s most glamorous islands, and for good reason. It’s a perfect fusion of luxury and tradition, where 5-star hotels stand beside historic chapels, and exclusive clubs thrive near quiet fishing coves.

Top Reasons to Visit:

🏝️ Beautiful golden beaches with crystal-clear water

💃 Legendary nightlife and beach clubs

🏘️ Iconic Cycladic architecture and maze-like streets

🛥️ Luxury shopping and yachting culture

🧿 Historic landmarks and nearby ancient Delos

🍷 A delicious blend of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine

🏛️ 2. History & Culture

Though known today for its party atmosphere, Mykonos has a rich and ancient history. According to Greek mythology, Mykonos was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules.

Historical Highlights:

Part of the Delian League in the 5th century BC

A major supporter of nearby Delos, the sacred island of Apollo

Influenced by Venetian and Ottoman rule

Became a jet-set hotspot in the 1950s, attracting stars like Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly

The island's culture is a mix of traditional Cycladic life and modern cosmopolitan flair. Local pride, religious customs, and music still thrive beneath the luxury surface.

🏘️ 3. Mykonos Town (Chora)

Mykonos Town is a labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, vibrant bougainvillea, designer boutiques, and hidden chapels.

Must-See Spots in Chora:

Little Venice – Romantic seaside quarter with colorful balconies

The Windmills (Kato Mili) – The island’s most iconic symbol

Paraportiani Church – An architectural marvel of white domes

Matoyianni Street – Designer shopping and buzzing cafés

Old Port – Great for sunset strolls and seaside dining

Tip: Wander without a map — getting lost in Chora is part of the charm.

🏖️ 4. Top Beaches in Mykonos

Mykonos offers beaches for every traveler — whether you're into dancing, water sports, or peace and quiet.

Party Beaches:

Paradise Beach – Legendary party beach with clubs like Tropicana

Super Paradise Beach – More exclusive and LGBTQ-friendly, wild parties

Paraga Beach – Popular for its relaxed yet vibrant vibe

Family-Friendly & Chill:

Ornos Beach – Calm waters, ideal for families

Platis Gialos – Organized beach with restaurants and water taxis

Agios Ioannis – Quiet, scenic, great for sunset views

Secluded & Natural:

Fokos Beach – Untouched beauty, no facilities

Kapari Beach – A secret local favorite

Agios Sostis – Unspoiled, clothing-optional

🌅 5. Things to Do and See

Aside from beach lounging and nightlife, Mykonos offers plenty of activities for culture and nature lovers.

Top Attractions:

Delos Island – UNESCO-listed ruins just 30 minutes by boat

Armenistis Lighthouse – Scenic views of the Aegean

Ano Mera Village – Traditional village with Monastery of Panagia Tourliani

Cine Manto – Outdoor cinema surrounded by a lush garden

Sea kayaking or sailing – Explore coves and hidden beaches

Don't forget to catch the sunset from Little Venice or the windmills — it's magical.

💃 6. Mykonos for Nightlife Lovers

Mykonos is one of Europe’s top party islands, attracting DJs and clubbers from around the world.

Best Nightlife Spots:

Scorpios (Paraga Beach) – Boho-chic day-to-night beach club

Nammos (Psarou Beach) – Ultra-luxury party and celebrity magnet

Cavo Paradiso – Cliffside mega club known for sunrise parties

Astra (Chora) – Sophisticated nightlife in the heart of town

Skandinavian Bar – A long-standing classic for bar-hoppers

The party typically starts late and goes until sunrise, especially in peak season.

🍽️ 7. Culinary Delights

Mykonos offers everything from authentic Greek tavernas to fine-dining experiences.

Traditional Foods to Try:

Kopanisti – Spicy local cheese

Louza – Cured pork delicacy

Ksinotira – Sour milk cheese

Rafiolia – Sweet pastry with honey

Octopus with fava – A seafood staple

Best Restaurants:

M-eating (Chora) – Creative Greek cuisine

Kiki’s Tavern (Agios Sostis) – No electricity, just amazing food

Niko’s Taverna (Old Port) – Famous local eatery

Interni (Chora) – Stylish fine dining under the stars

Mykonos Farmers – Farm-to-table concept just outside town

🏨 8. Where to Stay

From luxurious villas to charming boutique hotels, Mykonos has accommodations for every style and budget.

Luxury:

Cavo Tagoo – Iconic infinity pool, 5-star luxury

Kalesma Mykonos – Stylish hilltop retreat

Santa Marina (Ornos) – Private beach and indulgent amenities

Mid-Range:

Hotel Tagoo – Great views and local charm

Petinos Hotel (Platis Gialos) – Beachfront with comforts

Hotel Rochari – Close to town and well-rated

Budget:

Matogianni Hotel – Right in the heart of Chora

Paraga Beach Hostel – Social and affordable

Studio Eleni – Family-run and cozy

🧭 9. Day Trips and Excursions

Expand your Mykonos experience with these nearby adventures.

Top Day Trips:

Delos Island – Must-see ancient site

Tinos Island – Underrated and full of charm

Rhenia Island – Uninhabited, great for snorkeling tours

Sunset yacht cruises – Romantic and scenic

Wine tasting tours – Visit a Mykonian vineyard

🛬 10. Getting There and Around

How to Get to Mykonos:

✈️ Mykonos International Airport (JMK) – Direct flights from Athens and major European cities

⛴️ Ferries from Piraeus and Rafina (Athens) – 2.5 to 5 hours depending on the ferry type

Getting Around:

ATV/scooter rentals – Popular and fun for short distances

Car rentals – Best for exploring remote beaches

Local buses – Cheap and connect major beaches and towns

Water taxis – Great for beach hopping

Taxis – Limited availability and often expensive

🌤️ 11. Best Time to Visit

Late May to early October is ideal, depending on whether you prefer vibrant nightlife or peaceful exploration.

💡 12. Travel Tips

🗺️ Book hotels and ferries in advance (especially in July & August)

💳 Credit cards are widely accepted, but bring cash for small shops

👟 Bring comfortable shoes for cobbled streets

🛑 Don’t expect taxis to be readily available — plan ahead

🍇 Try local wines and cheeses — they're part of the experience

🧿 Respect local customs, especially during religious festivals

🏁 13. Final Thoughts

Mykonos is a destination like no other — a glamorous haven with a soul. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a hidden beach, enjoying sunset cocktails in Little Venice, or dancing the night away under the stars, Mykonos delivers a dreamlike escape.

From its timeless beauty to its modern luxuries, Mykonos is a jewel of the Aegean that shines bright all year long.