MYKONOS, GREECE: A COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE THE ISLAND
If you’re looking to spend a few days on a quintessential Greek island, Mykonos is the one. Situated in the Cyclades, the tiny island is completely iconic, packing Instagram photo opps around every corner. Mykonos Town is particularly lovely with its white-washed stone alleys, charming blue shutters, scenic windmills, picturesque churches and scores of outdoor dining options. Whether you’re there to party or to relax, you’ll leave Mykonos wishing you had more time. Some visitors stay just a couple of nights, but I recommend four nights / three days to see the town, the beaches, the sights and enjoy some R&R. The travel guide below includes my favorite things to do, itinerary ideas, hotel recommendations, restaurants, sunset bars, beaches, photo locations, Google Map pins and more.
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An iconic fixture of Mykonos, the Kato Mili Windmills sit at the edge of town overlooking the water. Outfit details: Lulu’s skirt linked here.
HOW MANY DAYS ON MYKONOS?
THREE DAYS. This really depends on how much leisure time you’re looking to have on the island. With three full days, you can explore the main town, sightsee in Little Venice, eat at the best restaurants, shop the boutiques and enjoy a beach club or two at a relaxed pace. And if you can stay longer, there’s plenty to see and do.
Mykonos Town is home to some of the most charming little churches. Outfit details: Lulu’s dress linked here.
WHEN TO VISIT MYKONOS
- JUNE & SEPTEMBER – Mykonos is one of the busiest islands in Greece, and it’s hard to escape the summer crowds. June and September offer the best balance of warm weather, lodging selection and lodging prices. And it’ll be slightly less busy than July and August.
- JULY & AUGUST – This is high season in the Greek islands when both crowds and temperatures are at their peak. Hotel prices are borderline ridiculous this time of the year, and selection can be sparse and expensive if you don’t book early.
- APRIL, MAY & OCTOBER – Lodging pricing is reasonable during shoulder season, but the island is not fully open in April, May and late October. Weather can be hit or miss, and likely too cold for beach days.
- NOVEMBER TO MARCH – Avoid visiting this time of the year. The weather is cold, and most shops and restaurants close for the off season.
The cute waterfront bars of Little Venice.
MYKONOS TRAVEL TIPS
- CURRENCY – The official currency of Greece is the Euro. Almost everywhere on the island takes credit card, but it’s always useful to have cash handy for small purchases.
- SWIM SHOES – Most of the beaches on Mykonos are rocky. Pack swim shoes to make beach days less painful.
- CRUISE SHIPS – Check when cruise ships are in port and avoid Mykonos Town during those hours. The ships flood the little town with tourists. Opt for beach time or exploring the island when a ship is docked.
My favorite corner in town. Outfit details: Free People dress linked here, bag linked here.
PLACES TO VISIT ON MYKONOS
AGIAS PARASKEVIS STREET
This Insta-famous alleyway is hard to recognize during the day when the shops are open with tourists roaming about. Visit early in the morning when everything is closed to see the iconic street and snap a photo.
BONI’S WINDMILL
If you’re in search of a topside view of Mykonos Town, make the short hike up to Boni’s Windmill. The lone windmill is lovely, but it’s the sweeping views over the little town that make this one of the best viewpoints on the island.
ELIA BEACH
There are loads of beach club options on the island, but Elia Beach is probably the most beautiful. Located in southern Mykonos, the calm stretch of turquoise coast is lined with dozens of perfectly placed thatched umbrellas and sun beds. When you park your car, instead of heading straight to the beautiful beach located in front of the parking lot, walk to your right along an open dirt path. It leads to separate section of umbrellas and beach that is even more stunning, and most people miss because they head to the first beach they see.
HAPPINESS BOUTIQUE
This charming boutique sits at the conversion of two alleyways, surrounded by white-washed buildings, blue shutters and red detailing. It’s a great spot for photos, but the street is heavily trafficked, as it’s one of the main cooridors in town. Best to visit early in the morning.
KATO MILI WINDMILLS
The island’s iconic windmills are a short walk from the Little Venice waterfront. It’s another popular tourist spot, especially if a cruise ship is in port, so I recommend making this the first stop on the day.
LITTLE VENICE WATERFRONT
Vibrant setting where town meets the sea. A great place to visit during the day, as well as at sunset with a glass of wine.
MYKONOS VIEWPOINT
The best viewpoint of Mykonos Town can be accessed via a short hike from the waterfront. Unfortunately, there isn’t an address or landmark, so directions are a bit tricky. Make your way to the ELTA Post Office, and look for a nearby staircase that leads up to the GPS Coordinates 37°27’00.8″N 25°19’51.0″E.
PANACHRA CHURCH
Gorgeous white church that sits in a tiny cobbled square surrounded by colorful flags and blooming flowers.
PARADISE BEACH
Paradise Beach is a spot more popular with partygoers. It’s located in South Mykonos, and the pretty turquoise waters attract lots of tourists during high season.
PARAPORTIANI CHURCH
This is the most photographed church on the island, so arrive early to experience the charm of Paraportiani without crowds of tourists. The white rocky church looks like something out of the Flintstone’s, and it’s actually several churches combined to look like one single rocky structure.
Little Venice.
SUNSET BARS ON MYKONOS
180 SUNSET BAR
The outdoor bar is perched on the highest peak in Mykonos Town overlooking the port, Little Venice, the windmills and the white washed town. Grab an oversized pillow, order a drink and watch the sun go down.
BAO’S COCKTAIL BAR
Lovely waterfront bar located in Little Venice. Perfect setting for sunset cocktails.
CERISE MYKONOS
Beautiful seafront bar that occupies a prime location in Little Venice where tiny white tables are surrounded by dozens of pastel blue wooden chairs. The scene is absolutely charming, and it’s a great spot to have a drink and watch the sunset. Reservations recommended.
NEGRITA BAR
A popping bar in Little Venice with a charming outdoor seating scene complete with little white tables, bougainvilleas and sea views.
NICE N EASY
Popular bar and restaurant on the Little Venice waterfront that is perfect for dinner and drinks at sunset.
SCORPRIO’S BEACH CLUB
This place is totally a scene, and very expensive. But a visit to Scorpio’s has become synonymous to Mykonos for visitors seeking out the party scene.
Chillin’ at Kastro’s, possibly the most iconic alleyway on the island.
The charm of Little Venice.
WHERE TO STAY ON MYKONOS
Beautiful little boutique property located near Psarou Beach, and 5km from Mykonos Town. The resort design aesthetic is minimalist chic – a pretty white and neutral palette. If you’re looking for a classic Greek island aesthetic Alissachni Mykonos definitely has it. Proximity to town isn’t bad, but on a small island it’s far enough that it might feel a bit isolating to some.
A stylish boutique hotel locate on Platιs Gialos Beach. The Branco rooms are small, but ultra chic and stylish. Very quintessential Mykonos. The pool and surrounding sun beds face picturesque views of the sea.
This is one of the newest resorts on the island, located in the little town of Kalafati. Similar to other properties on Mykonos, Cali Mykonos is all about embracing simple, ultra chic designs throughout its interiors and exteriors. The resort design is absolutely stunning – jaw-dropping sea-facing infinity pool, and 40 beautiful rooms and suites.
Cavo Tagoo is home to 83 upscale units, a mix of rooms, suites and villas that have been beautifully designed for the luxury traveler. The property frequently houses celebrities and social influencers, as it’s now a bucket list experience when traveling to Mykonos. The resort pools have become a destination, but it should be noted that the Instafamous cave pools, heart-shaped pool and saltwater infinity pool are all located inside private suites and villas (only those guests have access to them). Cavo Tagoo is located just outside of Mykonos Town, and the property provides free shuttle service for guests.
A beautiful wellness-focused boutique hotel that sits on Ornos Bay. Kensho Ornos houses 35 rooms, a picturesque cave spa and on-site restaurant with Boho vibes throughout.
This boutique luxury hotel is located across the island from Mykonos Town. Kivotos Mykonos is built up a small slope from its private beach with a truly spectacular infinity pool. Rooms and suites are minimalist, but luxurious.
Absolutely beautiful hotel that overlooks Elia Beach on the island’s southern coast. Similar to most hotels on the island, several of the Myconian Villa Collection suites and villas open up to plunge pools that overlook spectacular views of the sea. Guests pay top dollar during high season for this place.
Mykonos Blu is beautiful. Perched on a cliff overlooking Psarou Beach, the property is an oasis of smooth Cycladic white buildings and pools. Mykonos Town is a 10-minute drive.
Mykonos Lolita is a sister property to Mykonos Blu. The resort is located near Agios Sostis Beach and Kiki’s Tavern, close to Panaormos Beach. The resort itself is lovely – searing whites, soaring views, turquoise pools and Cycladic simplicity. But it’s the restored Greek church located on the property that really sets this place apart. The setting is completely dreamy.
At My Mykonos Hotel there’s no sacrificing style for affordability. This new boutique property is one of the more reasonably priced places to stay on the island, and still maintains a chic, modern, clean design.
Nomad Mykonos is one of the most gorgeous hotels on the island. From the brown interiors to creamty white enclaves, the space is designed entirely with different shades of neutrals. There are 14 luxury suites on property, all sumptuous Boho luxury havens. It’s set near Kalo Livadi Beach. This place is amazing.
Located north of the port, it’s a 15-minute drive from Rocabella to reach Mykonos Town. This Bohemian retreat is filled with plush cabanas, infinity pools and plunge pools that overlook the sea.
Adorable little townhouse located at the Old Port, walking distance to everything in town. The traditional design features smooth whites and grays with shelves and steps built into the stone-like structure. The Roofs of Chora Townhouse is small but completely charming, clean and filled with Cycladic character. There is a private rooftop terrace with a pool.
SANTA MARINA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT
Santa Marina is ideal for travelers looking for high-end luxury on Mykonos. A Luxury Collection property, the resort sits on a private beach filled with picture-perfect sunbeds, and a room selection that ranges from classic suites to five-bedroom villas. Rooms are bright, airy and spacious, all adorned in white and neutral tones.
Villa Thelgo is home to four split level villas, ranging from two to three-bedrooms (perfect for group stays). Location is just a couple miles from Mykonos Town, but the peaceful setting feels a world away. Rooms are bright with iconic Greek decor details like stone tubs, rock walls, blue shutters, etc.
Gelato always tastes better when traveling, especially in Greece.
GREECE GOOGLE MAP PINS
Every summer I visit the Greek Islands, and now I’m sharing more than 400 of my Google map pins across 12 islands with you guys here. The map is savable to your Google account, and easy to use for trip planning and navigation once on the ground in Greece.
Map pins include:
- must-visit destinations, churches, historic sites, viewpoints
- hotels, villas and Airbnbs
- bars, cafes, gelato shops, restaurants
- beaches, cliff jumping locations, secret coves, sea caves
- boat rental companies, ferry ports
- photos from several of these locations
Islands included in the map: Corfu, Crete, Ios, Kastellorizo, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros + Antiparos, Paxos + Antipaxos, Santorini
My 400 Google Map pins from the Greek islands are available here.
Greek salad at Caesar’s.
Dinner at D’Angelo Mykonos.
MYKONOS RESTAURANTS
CAESAR’S
Longtime favorite located in Goumenio Square – great atmosphere for dinner in the evenings. Menu includes traditional Greek dishes and fresh seafood.
D’ANGELO MYKONOS
Solid Italian restaurant with a variety of menu options including fresh pasta, pizzas, seafood, salads and risotto. D’Angelo was so tasty, I ate here twice (the fresh fish, garlic bread and bruschetta are delicious). Restaurant is located behind the Kato Mili Windmills on the way to Fabrica Square.
KASTRO’S RESTAURANT
Most people find their way to Kastro’s because they’ve seen photos of the restaurant’s iconic white-washed alleyway that leads to the sea. After snapping a few selfies, stick around to eat! The Kastro’s menu is filled with loads of fresh seafood options including sea bream, sea bass, salmon, mussels, lobster and more.
KIKI’S TAVERN
Famous restaurant with no power located on the island’s south coast. All cooking is done on a tiny grill – grilled feta cheese, grilled eggplant, grilled mushrooms, sea bass, chicken and pork. There are only a dozen or so tables at the restaurant, so expect a long wait time.
NAUTILUS
Nautilus’ menu offerings include a variety of pastas and fresh seafood. Lovely spot for outdoor dining on a warm summer evening – great ambiance.
PEPPER MYKONOS
A quick, affordable lunch option in Little Venice. Pepper Mykonos serves up authentic Greek cuisine on little tables that line a tiny alley.
ROCA COOKERY
Delicious selection of fresh seafood with outdoor seating that overlooks sweeping views of Mykonos Town across the tiny bar.
SALE & PEPE
The Sale & Pepe menu is filled with handmade Italian pastas, fresh seafood and wood fired pizza. One of my favorite restaurants on Mykonos.
THE TASTE DIARIES
Breakfast option that serves up a variety of crepes, located on the harbor.
Paraportiani Church reminds me of The Flintstone’s. Outfit details: Lulu’s dress linked here.
Cats are everywhere in the Greek islands.
GET TO MYKONOS
Mykonos is a highly accessible island with an international airport that services dozens of cities throughout Europe and the Middle East, as well as a few domestic routes. For travelers that are island hopping, there are several ferry options connecting Mykonos to the surrounding islands including Paros, Santorini and Milos . I used Ferry Hopper to book tickets in advance – it pulls the schedules from several of the ferry lines.
Gyros at Pepper.
GET AROUND MYKONOS
If you don’t plan venture beyond Mykonos Town, it’s easy enough to explore on foot. Everything is walkable. For visitors with more time on Mykonos that want to explore the island, scooters, ATVs and even cars are available to rent in town. Most rental companies are located in Fabrica Square on the edge of town. Also, if you plan to rent a car or scooter, most places require an international drivers license. Americans can get this from an AAA office for $20 by filling out an application.
Endless epic viewpoints on the island.
Sunset in Little Venice.
Traveling to Greece to Mykynos to island hop for 10nigjts. September 19th.
Thought I would island hop from Mykynos first, the finish off for a few nights at the end of my trip . Looking for any info on where to stay , as have to travel from port, then to Airport
Thank u love to come for a visit next year