Things To Do
in Mykonos

Mykonos is a sun-drenched island in the Cyclades famed for its windmills, whitewashed houses, and vibrant nightlife. It sits in the Aegean Sea and blends picturesque villages with dramatic coastlines and crystal-clear waters. While the island is famous for late-night revelry, the winding lanes, pristine beaches, and archaeological sites offer a wealth of daytime discoveries.

Beyond the party scene, Mykonos reveals serene sunsets, superb seafood, and photogenic streets that invite wandering and slow living.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Mykonos Town
morning
:

Start your day by wandering through the charming maze of Mykonos Town, also known as Chora. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful bougainvillea, perfect for leisurely exploration. Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast at a local café, savoring yogurt with honey and fresh fruit.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the famous windmills of Mykonos, a quintessential landmark that offers stunning views of the sea. Afterward, relax at a beach bar by Psarou Beach, where you can sip on refreshing cocktails and indulge in local seafood specialties. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a jet ski or taking a day cruise to nearby islands.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to Little Venice, where you can enjoy a picturesque view as the sky transforms into vibrant hues. Pick a seaside restaurant for dinner and indulge in fresh seafood or traditional Greek dishes while listening to the gentle waves. Conclude your night at a lively bar, dancing to island beats under the starry sky.

day 2
Delos Day Trip
morning
:

Take a morning ferry from Mykonos to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Delos, known as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Explore the ruins, which include stunning mosaics, ancient temples, and an archaeological museum showcasing the island's riches. You'll have the chance to learn about the historical significance and myths of this sacred place.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour of Delos, return to Mykonos around midday and enjoy a casual lunch at a local taverna. Taste traditional dishes like moussaka or souvlaki while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Spend the afternoon lounging by the sandy shores of Agios Sostis Beach, known for its tranquility and stunning sunset views.

evening
:

In the evening, head back to Mykonos Town for a stroll through the picturesque streets as shops and boutiques start to open. Enjoy dinner at a chic restaurant, sampling local delicacies paired with exquisite wines while watching the sunset. After dinner, experience Mykonos' nightlife at iconic clubs and bars, where electronic music and dancing reign supreme.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧃Coffee$3-5
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$120-250
🚕Taxi within town$5-15
🎟️Delos island entrance + ferry$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Iconic nightlife and beaches
  • Stunning scenery and photos
  • Delos day trips
  • Walkable town center
  • Crowds in peak season
  • High prices in peak season
  • Windy conditions can affect boat trips
  • "Kalimera" - Good morning
  • "Kalispera" - Good evening
  • "Efharistó" - Thank you
  • "Parakaló" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Signómi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "Pou einai?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Mykonos

Visit one of these nice places.

Windmills of Kato Mouni

Iconic windmills perched above Mykonos Town with panoramic sea views, especially magical at sunset.

Little Venice (Alefkandra)

Pastel-toned houses along the water's edge with sea balconies and moored boats, ideal for sunset and dusk photography.

Panagia Paraportiani

Picturesque whitewashed church with distinctive shape, nestled at the edge of the harbor.

Armenistis Lighthouse

Coastal vantage point with sweeping Aegean views and dramatic sunsets.

Old Port and Chora alleyways

Narrow white-washed lanes, blue doors, and lively harbor scenes perfect for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mykonos

Greek island cuisine on Mykonos emphasizes seafood, olive oil, herbs, and simple, vibrant flavors. Expect grilled specialties, fresh vegetables, and sweet pastries, with plenty of opportunities to sample local cheeses and seafood.

Mykonos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kopanisti (spicy cheese spread)

A tangy, peppery cheese often served with bread as an appetizer.

Must-Try!

Kleftiko

Slow-cooked lamb, often prepared in a clay oven for rich, smoky flavor.

Grilled octopus

Charred, tender octopus often served with lemon and olive oil.

Lavraki (sea bass)

Fresh, simply prepared fish, typically grilled with lemon.

Fava

Yellow split pea purée, a creamy, comforting side typical in the Cyclades.

Loukoumades

Honey-drizzled Greek doughnuts for a sweet finish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Old Port Market (Chora market)

Vibrant harbor area with fresh seafood stalls and local snacks worth sampling.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mykonos has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer highs often reach 28-32°C (82-90°F) with strong sun; winters are mild (around 8-15°C / 46-59°F) with occasional rain and windy days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and friendliness

Greeks are warm and hospitable; a friendly hello and a smile go a long way, especially in small shops and cafes.

Religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and photography restrictions may apply in sacred spaces.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; observe local charges and tip accordingly.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good for tourists; watch for petty theft in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and be mindful of strong meltemi winds that can affect boat trips and sea conditions. When swimming, follow lifeguard notices and beach safety guidelines.

Tipping in Mykonos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service is typically included in some restaurants (check the bill); if not, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service.

Payment methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common in Mykonos Town; carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and bright wildflowers; great for walking and photography before the peak heat.

Summer

Hot, sunny days with high humidity and busy beaches; expect big crowds and higher prices, but lively events and nightlife.

Autumn

Warm seas and pleasant weather; shoulder-season crowds ease up, ideal for exploring the island's quieter corners.

Winter

Quiet and mild, some businesses close; great for a peaceful, slower pace with cooler sea views and fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Mykonos at Night

Mykonos is renowned for its nightlife, featuring a mix of chic cocktail bars in Mykonos Town, beach clubs along Paradise and Super Paradise, and legendary open-air clubs like Cavo Paradiso. The party scene runs late into the night in summer, with international DJs and glamorous crowds, but quieter lounges and tavernas offer more laid-back evenings in other seasons.

Hiking in Mykonos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Armenistis Lighthouse coastal walk

Coastal path with sea vistas and cliffside scenery near the northwest coast.

Delos island paths

Trails on Delos through ruins and hillside routes accessible by boat from Mykonos.

Airports

How to reach Mykonos by plane.

Mykonos International Airport (JMK)

3 km from Mykonos Town; seasonal international flights; taxis and buses connect to town.

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Main gateway; direct flights to Mykonos are about 40-50 minutes once you fly.

Santorini International Airport (JTR)

Nearby island airport with ferry connections to Mykonos and direct seasonal flights.

Paros National Airport (PAS)

Regional airport nearby; connections to Mykonos via ferry or air transfers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mykonos Town is highly walkable with pedestrian lanes, harbor views, and convenient dining; outside the town, streets can be narrow and hilly, and traffic increases with scooters and cars in peak season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young party-seekers

Many visitors come for nightlife, beaches, and late-night entertainment.

Families and couples

Relaxed daytime activities and quieter beaches appeal to families and couples outside peak hours.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Water sports

Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet-skiing are active on Kalafatis, Platys Gialos, and other beaches.

Scuba diving

Dives around Mykonos offer clear visibility and marine life for beginners and experienced divers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy in peak summer; Mykonos Town streets are often busy and narrow; most visitors rely on scooters, ATVs, or taxis; ferries and domestic flights connect to Athens and the Cyclades.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mykonos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for Greek staples like stuffed vegetables, fava, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese-based dishes. Ask for olive oil and herbs, and request meat-free options when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare on the island includes private clinics and pharmacies; for serious care, visitors may need to go to Athens or Santorini; travel insurance is recommended; carry prescriptions and know English-speaking staff at clinics.

Discover Greece

Read more in our Greece 2025 Travel Guide.

Greece Travel Guide