Welcome to the little Cyclades island with the big reputation!
Mykonos can be one long beach party – or simply long, sunny days on deserted sands followed by lazy dinners in seaside tavernas. Whatever you fancy, it’s impossible to resist. Please note this route is seasonal
Getting Around
The airport is less than three miles from Mykonos Town and within easy driving distance of pretty much anywhere on this small island, just nine miles long by six miles wide. Buses are reliable and water taxis run frequently in summer. Hire a car, scooter or bike to get around on your own schedule.
Language
Greek
Time Difference
2 hrs ahead of GMT
Currency
Euro
Neighbourhoods To See
Mykonos Town: For history
One of the most international of the small Greek island capitals, Myknos Town mixes traditional charm with a lively holiday atmosphere. The elegant historic quarter Little Venice has waterfront restaurants and bars in centuries-old former homes, and narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, many home to designer stores.
Paradise Beach: For partying
Easily Mykonos’ most famous beach, known less for its excellent dive schools than its nightlife, this party haven draws superstar DJs and young clubbers all summer long.
Psaroú Beach: For relaxing
One of the south coast’s prettiest beaches, it’s a favourite with sunbathers and a magnet for divers and snorkelers, while still offering a peaceful vibe.
Essential Sights
Aegean Maritime Museum
A passionately curated museum exploring Greek maritime history in intricate detail.
Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
Like every Greek island, Mykonos has archaeological treasures. Look for well-preserved Hellenistic vases, chilling funeral statues and artefacts from nearby island Rineia.
Mykonos Windmills
Mykonos is known as ‘island of the winds’, which explains why 16th century Venetian settlers built so many windmills here. Today only seven remain, overlooking the harbour.
Panagia Paraportiani
This quaint church looks like a whitewashed rock from a distance, but consists of five chapels crowned with an elegant 17th-century dome.
Rarity Gallery
A stunning exhibition space enhanced by works from international contemporary artists, the gallery hosts several shows each year, with a focus on sculpture and painting.
Food And Drink
Mykonos’ international popularity has helped it develop a diverse food culture, where world foods rub shoulders with Greek fare such as squid ink pasta and spanakopita (spinach pie). Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour or seek out Aegean specialities at traditional tavernas – there are plenty of cafes and bars too.
Events
AUGUST | Xlsior Mykonos
Join the party at one of Europe’s largest gay festivals which attracts thousands of revellers every year.
AUGUST | Ano Mera Feast Day
Mykonos’s only other town is sleepy by comparison, but all that changes when it hosts the island’s most extravagant annual Feast Day.
SEPTEMBER | Harvest Festival
This annual family-friendly event celebrates traditional rural customs, local produce, arts and crafts.
SEPTEMBER | Mykonos Biennale
Bringing summer to a close with an island-wide programme of music, dance, drama and film.