What to do in Mykonos
Touring archaeological sites, lazing on beautiful beaches, taking easy day trips, or simply drinking iced coffee in the shade of a café’s terrace… whatever you’re looking to fill your Greek island holiday with, you’ll find it in Mykonos.
Little Venice
For souvenir shopping and relaxing with cocktails, head to Mykonos Town’s most romantic neighbourhood: Little Venice. Stacked along the waterfront of Little Venice, you’ll find 18th-century merchant houses, now transformed into harbour boutiques and tavernas.
If you’re staying for a meal, reserve well ahead – Little Venice’s sunset vistas are popular. As well as sparkling views of the Aegean Sea, you’ll see the island’s famous windmills and the landmark Paraportiani Church. White-washed Panagia Paraportiani is a fusion of four different chapels built in the 15th century.
Delos
One of Greece’s most important historical sites lies 30 minutes by boat from the Old Port of Mykonos. According to myth, the island of Delos is the birthplace of ancient Greek deities Apollo and Artemis. The Cyclades even derive their name from their position encircling this isle of legend.
The archaeological site, with its mosaics, columns and Naxos stone lions, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. It’s an easy day trip between May and October (with less frequent connections in low season). Bring sun protection.
Paradise Beach
Crystalline waters and soft golden sands entice crowds of beach-lovers to this heavenly spot. Mykonos’ best-known stretch of sand has sun-loungers and beach umbrellas galore, but most of its sunscreen-splashed devotees come for the beach bars.
After dark, beach nightclubs fill the air with trance and EDM, courtesy of big-name DJs. But don’t limit your beach bum lifestyle to Paradise: there’s also popular Ornos, party cove Paraga, long sandy Elia Beach, windsurfing and watersports hub Kalafatis, and Super Paradise Beach, which is popular with the LGBTQ+ crowd.
Ano Mera
Need a break from nightlife? Ano Mera’s traditional stone houses and low-key tavernas offer a glimpse of Greek village life, and it’s an easy 30-minute bus ride from Mykonos Town.
Explore the monastery Panagia Tourliani, hike to ruined Gyzi Castle on the hill above town, then settle in for gyros or grilled octopus at a taverna in Ano Mera’s main square.
Armenistis Lighthouse
A fully functioning lighthouse dating to 1891, Armenistis Lighthouse offers spectacular views of the Aegean Sea as well as insight into Mykonos’ maritime history. Built a few years after the tragic sinking of the British Volta steamship, this 19m-tall construction is now a romantic photo op on a hillside that’s spangled with wildflowers in spring. Go at sunset for the dreamiest photos.