Best things to do in Mykonos
Find out more about those top places in Mykonos
Mykonos: Beyond the Beach Parties (Yes, There's More!) - Windmills, Ancient Ruins, and Enough White Cottages to Make You See Spots! - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide!
Ah, Mykonos! Just the name conjures up images of those iconic, enchanting windmills spinning lazily in the Aegean breeze, ancient Greek temples whispering tales of gods and goddesses, and dazzling whitewashed cottages clinging to hillsides like sugar cubes scattered across a blue velvet cloth. There's no doubt about it, this Cycladic island is undeniably one of the most charming spots in the whole darn archipelago.
Now, let's get down to brass tacks (or maybe bronze ones, considering the history!). Mykonos isn't exactly sprawling; it's a bijou beauty, clocking in at just over 80 square kilometers. But don't let its petite size fool you! Most of the top attractions are nestled in the arid hills and sun-kissed coves that hug the island's de facto capital, the wonderfully maze-like town of Hora. Seriously, getting lost in Hora's charming alleyways is practically a rite of passage (just follow your nose – you'll probably stumble upon a delicious taverna eventually!).
Speaking of delicious, the white-sand beaches that stretch out on either side of Hora are some of Europe's most spectacular. Think soft, powdery sand between your toes and crystal-clear turquoise waters begging for a dip. And lining these glorious shores? Traditional Greek tavernas dishing out rustic Mediterranean classics that will make your taste buds sing a little Zorba's Dance in your mouth.
But hold onto your sun hats, beach bums! Beyond the buzzing beaches and the captivating main town, Mykonos has a hidden gem that's worth venturing out for: the enchanting ancient ruin of Delos. This entire island is an archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage wonder where the Temple of Isis offers commanding views of the entire Cycladic island chain. Imagine standing amidst these ancient stones, gazing out at the Aegean Sea, feeling like you've stepped back in time (minus the togas, unless you packed one!).
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do on this captivating island. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from the iconic windmills to the ancient wonders of Delos, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Mykonos so much more than just a party island (though it does that pretty well too!).
Top Attractions: Windmills, Ancient History, and Beaches That Wow!
Mykonos offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and charming architecture. Here are some of the top places to visit you absolutely shouldn't miss:
The Windmills of Mykonos: Iconic Sentinels of the Aegean
These charming windmills, perched on a hill overlooking Hora, are one of Mykonos' most iconic sights. They're a perfect photo opportunity and offer stunning views of the town and the sea, especially at sunset. A must-see for your Mykonos sightseeing.
Hora (Mykonos Town): A Labyrinth of Whitewashed Charm
Get wonderfully lost in the maze-like streets of Hora, the island's capital. Discover hidden squares, charming boutiques, art galleries, and traditional tavernas. Exploring Hora on foot is one of the best things to do and offers endless sightseeing delights.
The Beaches of Mykonos: Sun, Sand, and Aegean Bliss
Mykonos boasts some of Europe's most spectacular beaches, from the lively party beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise to the more relaxed shores of Ornos and Psarou. Choose your vibe and soak up the sun! Relaxing on the beaches is definitely one of the top things to do.
The Archaeological Site of Delos: A Journey into Ancient Greece
Take a short boat trip to the uninhabited island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Explore the well-preserved ruins1 of ancient temples, sanctuaries, and houses, including the impressive Temple of Isis. It's a fascinating place to visit for history buffs and offers incredible sightseeing.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Views: Taverna Hopping, Sunset Gazing, and Island Exploration!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Mykonos vibe:
- Indulge in Greek Cuisine at a Traditional Taverna: Sample the delicious flavors of Mykonian and Greek cuisine at a local taverna. Don't miss trying local specialties like Louza (cured pork) and Kopanisti (spicy cheese).
- Watch the Sunset from Little Venice: This picturesque waterfront area in Hora, with its colorful houses perched right by the sea, is a magical spot to watch the sunset.
- Explore the Inland Villages: Rent a car or scooter and venture beyond Hora to discover the charming inland villages of Mykonos, such as Ano Mera with its Panagia Tourliani Monastery.
- Take a Boat Trip Around the Island: Discover hidden coves and secluded beaches by taking a boat trip around the Mykonos coastline.
- Visit a Local Art Gallery: Mykonos has a thriving art scene. Explore the numerous galleries showcasing the works of local and international artists.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Greece that offer a captivating blend of iconic scenery, ancient history, and glorious beaches, Mykonos is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unforgettable sightseeing and delightful things to do. Just be prepared to fall in love with the whitewashed charm, the Aegean blues, and the surprisingly diverse experiences this enchanting island has to offer. Kali Orexi! (Bon appétit!)
-
Delos Island
Immortalized as the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, the island of Delos was one of ancient Greece’s most sacred locations. While today no one lives on the UNESCO World Heritage listed island, during its heyday in the 1st millennia BC it was a vibrant city with a plethora of Doric colonnaded temples, stepped theaters, rich mosaic houses and the awe-inspiring Terrace of Lions. Guided tours of the island are recommended as they help you to imagine the ancient city in all its past splendor.
-
Ftelia Beach
On the northern shore of Mykonos lies one of Greece’s most charming golden sand beaches. For those looking to relax, Ftelia is a must visit in Mykonos while a number of excellent taverns are available for some respite from the midday sun. However, Ftelia offers more than just sunbathing: history enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the ruins of a nearby Neolithic settlement and adrenaline junkies can try out windsurfing.
-
Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
Located in a typically Cycladic whitewashed building, the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos showcases a small but well curated selection of urns, funerary art and figurines from prehistory to the golden age of Hellenic culture.
-
Delos Synagogue
When on the sacred island of Delos make sure to head off the beaten track to visit the remote ancient synagogue, thought to be one of the world’s oldest. Located far from the center of ancient Delos, the synagogue, with origins dating from the 1st century BC, is one of the island’s hidden gems. While there is little left today but ruins, guided tours of the site reveal the unique Jewish heritage of Delos.
-
Snorkeling Sea Safari
Far from the crowded beaches near Mykonos Town, the speedboat sea safari takes visitors to the island’s rugged and remote southeastern corner where you can spot dolphins, swim amongst reefs peppered with ancient Greek artifacts and snorkel with some of the Cyclades’ most impressive sea life. What is more, from the vantage point of the speedboat visitors can get an awe-inspiring vista of Mykonos’ breathtaking coastline.
