Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Greece. The wild and cosmopolitan child of the Cyclades, it’s a celebrities’ favorite for its renowned nightlife and natural beauty.

Find all the information you need for your vacation in Mykonos: what to do and how to get there, the best beaches, food, and attractions. Compare ferry schedules and book ferry tickets to Mykonos on Ferryhopper, with no hidden fees!

The windmills in the Chora of Mykonos, a popular photo spot

Holidays in Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the top destinations for summer holidays in Greece. A beautiful island, located in the north Cyclades, Mykonos is renowned for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, its intense nightlife, its amazing beaches, and attractions. It is often called “the celebrity island”, as it is popular amongst celebrities and jet-setters from all over the world.

In Mykonos, you can have your dream luxury holiday in its many villas, luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, and extravagant bars. Shopping lovers will also find a mix of designer and high-end fashion stores, as well as exclusive boutiques.

Mykonos is not, however, just a party island or a big-budget getaway. The lively atmosphere of the island, as well as its numerous beautiful beaches, will charm you straight away. We also suggest that you explore the classy Mykonos Town (Chora), as well as the island’s picturesque settlements.

Family holidays in Mykonos are also recommended. There are many kid-friendly resorts as well as numerous sandy beaches that are easily accessible and great for beach games. Some of the most famous Mykonos beaches also have water sports facilities for all ages.

How to get to Mykonos

Traveling by ferry from Athens to Mykonos is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to visit the island. There are frequent ferry routes from 2 ports in Athens (Piraeus and Rafina) all year round, and you can choose between standard or high-speed vessels. The fastest ferry to Mykonos takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Find more information about ferry schedules to Mykonos below.

Mykonos also has an airport, so you can get to the island by plane as well.

What to do in Mykonos

One thing is certain: in Mykonos, you won’t get bored, as you’ll have many different places to go and things to do every day.

Make sure that you stroll around the Chora of Mykonos and discover its beautiful neighborhoods and stone-paved alleys. The area of Little Venice is one of the most impressive spots in Chora, with the 18th-century houses literally built over the sea. Just outside of Chora, you will find the famous windmills of Mykonos, the perfect photo background and sunset spot.

It is worth organizing a day trip to Delos to admire the islet’s impressive landscape and to get to know the history of the Cyclades. Delos is one of the richest archeological sites in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to Greek mythology, it was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. There are numerous daily crossings from Mykonos to Delos. The trip lasts around 30 minutes and the regular return ticket costs about €20.

If you have time to spare, another day trip that is worth planning is the one from Mykonos to Rhenia Island. The uninhabited neighboring island of Rhenia is also considered an archaeological site, but it’s most known for its amazing beaches with sparkling golden sand and turquoise crystal-clear waters.

The impressive archaeological site of Delos

Beaches in Mykonos

Mykonos has beautiful beaches across its coast. The majority of them have umbrellas and sunbeds (usually can be rented for a fee), while there are also beach bars and all-day restaurants where you can get the full seaside experience of Mykonos: blue sea, beautiful scenery, great food, and often… all-day parties!

On the popular beaches of the island, you will find some of the most famous beach clubs of Mykonos, like the ones in Psarou, Ftelia and Paradise. However, there are also more isolated beaches, such as Agios Sostis, Kapari and Merchia, as well as quiet beaches that are ideal for families, such as Panormos, Agios Stefanos and Agrari.

Here are some of Mykonos’ best beaches:

• Ftelia: popular, sandy beach, with crystal waters and easy access. It is great for windsurfing thanks to the strong north winds. 
• Kapari: small, secluded beach with sand and clear turquoise waters. It has no amenities, so make sure you have the essentials for a day at the beach with you.
• Panormos: one of the quietest beaches of Mykonos, with sand and crystal clear waters.
• Agios Sostis: a stunning, untouched, secluded beach without facilities or sunbeds. It’s also nude and pet-friendly. Here, you’ll find the wonderfully authentic Kiki's Tavern.
• Psarou: a cosmopolitan beach, with luxury beach bars that attract celebrities from all over the world. The sea is crystal clear and the beach has umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent at quite high prices.
• Ornos: the nearest beach to Mykonos Town. It has fine, golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can rent umbrellas or sunbeds and there are also restaurants and beach bars, as well as watersports and diving clubs.
• Elia: one of the largest beaches on the island. It is covered almost entirely by umbrellas and sunbeds, but you can also find some free space if you prefer to sunbathe in the sand.
• Agrari: the ideal beach if you want to escape the crowds. Beautiful and small, it has sand and deep blue waters, umbrellas, sunbeds, a taverna, and water sports facilities.
• Super Paradise: a beautiful cove with blonde sand, turquoise waters, umbrellas, and sunbeds. Definitely a must-see. 
• Paradise: the most popular beach on the island, known for its all-day parties and DJ nights. It offers umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as diving and water sports facilities.

A typical summer day at the beach of Elia, on the south coast of Mykonos

Sightseeing and activities in Mykonos

Mykonos is an island with a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. In modern times, it played an important role as a key port in the Greek Revolution.

Here is a list of Mykonos attractions to visit during your stay:

• The windmills in Chora
• The neighborhood of Little Venice
• Panagia Paraportiani, the most photographed churches on the island built on top between the 14th and 17th centuries
• The hill of Paleokastro and the Castle of Gizi
• The Mycenaean tholos tomb in the area of Aggelika
• The neolithic settlement of Ftelia
• The Monastery of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera 
• The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
• The Folklore Museum of Mykonos
• The Municipal Art Gallery of Mykonos
• The Aegean Maritime Museum
• The House of Lena (folklore museum)

If you like water sports, then we recommend visiting the beaches of Kalafatis, Elia and Super Paradise. We also suggest you explore the impressive seabed of Mykonos and go diving in the nearby islets of Tragonisi, Prasonissia and Chtapodia.

The historic 17th-century Panagia Paraportiani church

Nightlife in Mykonos

The vivid nightlife is one of the main reasons to visit Mykonos, obviously. No wonder Mykonos is often called the "Ibiza of Greece".

In the alleys of Mykonos Town (Chora), as well as in the neighborhoods of Little Venice and Matogiannia you will find numerous bars, glittery clubs and cocktail bars - some with incredible sea views - such as the legendary JackieO' Town Bar and Astra, but also the traditional kafeneio of Bakoya for your morning coffee.

Mykonos’ nightlife is not limited to the bars of Chora. On the island’s beaches, you will find some of the most renowned all-day beach bars and clubs of Mykonos. You can, therefore, combine your swim or afternoon drink with music events by international DJs, live gigs by Greek and foreign artists, as well as many parties. Some of the most famous beach clubs in Mykonos are the following: Nammos (Psarou), Skorpios (Paraga), Paradise Beach, Alemagou (Ftelia), and Lohan Beach House (Kalo Livadi).

For those who love electronic music, the island’s must is, of course, the club Cavo Paradiso, near Paradise beach. It is worth staying until the early morning hours to enjoy the sunrise!

The magical lights of Mykonos Town by night

Food in Mykonos

Mykonos is a pioneer in Greek and international gastronomy. If you want to experience the splendors of Mykonos food (and you have the budget) then we suggest making the most of your stay. You can eat in gourmet restaurants, hotels overlooking the endless Aegean blue, modern bar restaurants on the beach, on your luxurious sun lounger, or even on yachts and private piers.

There are, of course, quieter and cheaper options, mainly on smaller villages and beaches. Some value-for-money restaurants in Mykonos include Lefteris GrillHouse and Balothies in Ornos, Nikolas Taverna in Agia Anna, the small tavernes in Fokos and Lia, as well as Mathios Tavern in the new port.

The traditional cuisine of Mykonos is delicious and we suggest trying different tastes during your stay on the island. Some of our top food recommendations for Mykonos are:

• kopanisti cheese
• sausages
• louza (cured meat) 
• mostra (local meze plate)
• Mykonian paximadia (crispbreads)
• local mushrooms (try them in the pan)
• houhoulioi (or houhoulianoi), a recipe with sea snails and pilaf
• marathokeftedes (fennel balls)
• Mykonian pies, such as onion pie or honey pie
• Mykonian rafiolia (sweets with honey and cheese)
• almond sweets (try the Kyklamino Patisserie)

Tip: if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the chocolate cake at Koutsoukos bakery.

Restaurant in Mykonos with a relaxing atmosphere by the sea

Villages in Mykonos

Mykonos has 2 main villages and numerous smaller settlements that are usually attached to the largest beaches. The traditional Cycladic architecture of the Mykonian villages merges with modern summer houses, villas and hotels, creating a beautiful landscape.

Here are the top villages to visit in Mykonos:

• Mykonos Chora (or Mykonos Town)
• Ano Mera
• Tourlos
• Ornos

The picturesque sea village of Ornos

Tips for Mykonos

Some travel tips for your vacation in Mykonos:

• The best time to visit Mykonos is in July and August if you want to experience the peak of the island’s lifestyle. If you are looking for some quiet time away from the crowds, we suggest traveling to Mykonos in June or late September. 
• If you are planning a day trip to Delos, keep in mind that the island is uninhabited and overnight stays on the island are not allowed.
• Local traditions and customs play an important role in the island’s life. We suggest going to some of the summer panigiria, traditional festivals with local food and live folk Greek music. Some of the best panigiria to try are those of Panagia in Tragonisi (June 11), Agia Kyriaki in Delos (July 7) and Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera (August 15).
• At Armenistis lighthouse, on the northwestern tip of the island, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in Mykonos. You can either access the lighthouse by car from a dirt road (it needs a little attention) or go on foot.

The majestic Armenistis lighthouse of Mykonos

Useful information about Mykonos

Mykonos is a top destination for thousands of tourists each year, so it’s one of the most developed islands in the Cyclades. In the Old and the New Port, close to Chora, you will find everything you need for a comfortable stay on the island: supermarkets, shops, wineries, pharmacies, banks, and ATMs. In smaller villages, such as Ano Mera, you will also find a pharmacy, mini market, gas stations, and ATMs.

The island also has an international airport, located at a distance of 4 km from Mykonos Town.

In terms of accommodation, Mykonos offers a wide range of options to choose from, depending on your budget and vacation style:

• Boutique hotels
• Luxury villas
• Rooms to let
• Small apartments
• Hostels 

Moreover, there are 2 camping sites in Mykonos, on the beaches of Paraga and Paradise, which are preferred by those who like to be at the heart of the party.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Mykonos

Here are some useful contact numbers for your holiday in Mykonos: 

• Mykonian Hygeia: +302289024211
• Fabrika bus station: +302289026797
• Police Station:+302289022716
• Mykonos International Airport: +302289079000
• Mykonos Town Hall: +302289022201
• Mykonos Taxi Services: +302152154000, +306943155648
• European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Mykonos

Transportation is quite easy, as Mykonos has a good road network and frequent bus routes that connect Chora and the port with the airport, beaches and other points of interest. Keep in mind that buses from Chora arrive/depart from either the Old Port or Fabrika station.

If you want to explore the island, we recommend bringing your own vehicle by ferry to Mykonos or renting one there. If you can’t or don't want to drive, you can always use taxis or private vans. If you are looking for a VIP experience, Mykonos has a few concierge services.

Tip: Ferryhopper, in collaboration with Welcome Pickups, makes your transportation to and from the port of Mykonos easier and safer. Avoid taxi queues and extra charges and trust your ride to experienced drivers who know the island and its roads. Make a reservation and organize your trip to Mykonos in comfort and style. 

Ports in Mykonos

Mykonos has 2 ports, the Old Port and the New Port. Both are located near Chora, at a distance of 1.5 km from each other. Most ferries to Mykonos from Piraeus, Rafina and the rest of the Cyclades are served by the New Port, in Tourlos. The Old Port, which is closer to Chora, usually serves smaller vessels.

However, weather conditions and maritime traffic might affect the availability of Mykonos ferry ports. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the local port authorities before your trip to/from Mykonos to confirm the port of arrival/departure.

Don’t forget that you can stay informed about schedule changes and track your ferry in real time with the Ferryhopper App!

Ferry at the New Port of Mykonos in Tourlos

Island hopping from Mykonos

Mykonos is located east of Tinos and Syros, north of Naxos and Paros and west of Ikaria, which makes it ideal for island hopping in the Cyclades. You can also easily reach the islands of the eastern Aegean and Crete with Mykonos ferries, operated by numerous companies.

Especially in summer, there are frequent ferries from Mykonos to nearby destinations and tickets are quite affordable. Mykonos is directly connected by ferry to the following ports:

• Tinos
• Andros
• Syros
• Sifnos
• Paros
• Naxos
• Koufonisia
• Amorgos
• Ios
• Milos
• Folegandros
• Santorini
• Crete (Heraklion)
• Ikaria 
• Samos
• Lesvos
• Lemnos
• Oinousses
• Chios
• Patmos

If you feel overwhelmed with all the destinations you can visit by ferry from Mykonos, do not worry! On our Map of ferries, you can find all the available crossings from Mykonos, as well as indicative ticket prices for each route. This way, you can plan your island-hopping trip to the Greek islands with confidence!

Mykonos ferry, schedules and tickets

There is a regular ferry connection from Athens to Mykonos throughout the year, mainly with the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. The main ferry routes between Athens and Mykonos are:

• Rafina - Mykonos ferry: this is a popular route, as Rafina is the closest port to northwestern Cyclades. The Rafina - Mykonos ferry trip lasts from around 2 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 40 minutes. The connection is served all year round with up to 9 daily crossings.
• Piraeus - Mykonos ferry: the ferry connection is served throughout the year with up to 6-7 daily crossings, operated by both standard and high-speed vessels. The Piraeus - Mykonos ferry trip lasts from 2.5 hours to 4-5.5 hours, depending on the vessel and the itinerary.

Tip: see more details about your trip, including all the ways to travel to Mykonos!

Book ferry tickets to Mykonos online 

Dreaming of your summer vacation in Mykonos? Book ferry tickets online with no hidden fees on Ferryhopper! Compare ferries, ticket prices, ports and ferry companies, and organize your magical vacation in Mykonos and the Cyclades.