When it comes to the Greek islands, few places are able to meet idealized expectations like the island of Mykonos, with its stark-white buildings and beautiful beaches on the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Now one of the more cosmopolitan destinations in Greece, Mykonos also serves as a convenient jumping-off point for nearby attractions. The neighboring island of Delos—the alleged birthplace of Artemis and Apollo—scratches that mythology itch with its treasure trove of ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, Sacred Way, and Terrace of the Lions. Visitors who decide to book a tour have the choice of a catamaran, yacht, sailing boat, or even cruise ship to explore the nearby uninhabited island of Rhenia and its paradise beach; and guided scuba diving and snorkeling trips are popular ways to enjoy the region’s clear blue waters. Back on Mykonos island, there are two main communities: Mykonos Town, or Chora, is a sea of charming whitewashed houses and winding streets originally intended to confuse invading pirates. Though the town has developed rapidly, its original style is intact and evident in the medieval houses and wooden terraces of Little Venice. Inland, the small village of Ano Mera has a different energy, with a 16th century monastery and traditional tavernas still steeped in the old Mykonian spirit. After all the sightseeing tours, soak in Greek island spirit against a sunset backdrop to end any day in this Cycladic gem.
Mykonos parties from June to September, welcoming hordes of sun-loving, hedonistic holidaymakers. It’s particularly popular during the late-summer Xlsior gay jamboree and Biennale arts festival. If you’re looking for hot sun, visit in July or August, when you’ll get temperatures as high as 84°F (29°C) paired with cooling breezes at the beaches. For more space and a less frenetic pace, visit in the spring, for pleasant temperatures and quieter resorts, or in fall, when the sea is still warm.
Exploring Mykonos Town (Chora) involves a lot of walking; its tiny lanes are traffic-free. To reach major beaches and other popular spots, catch one of the frequent buses from the town’s South Station (Fabrika) or the Old Port station. You can also find taxis at the town’s main square or book tours that include transportation. The easiest way to explore the island, however, is to rent a car or moped; just be aware that peak-season rates are high, and in-town parking is limited.
Take a break from Mykonos Town in the early evening, and head north (in a rental car or on a scooter) to Cape Armenistis, a steep, deserted headland crowned by a 19th-century lighthouse. It’s a perfect place to experience one of Mykonos’ sunsets—and most spectacular views—in peace. Climb to the old structure to enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the neighboring islands of Tinos, Delos, and Syros. The headland has strong breezes, so hold on to your hat.
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One of Greece’s Cyclades islands, Mykonos’ claim-to-fame is its frenetic nightlife, welcoming of the LBGTQ community, and glam nature. These sit comfortably alongside its classic Greek culture and landscapes: cue whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, wooden fishing boats, and simple tavernas huddled among hip hotels and restaurants.
...MoreFrom hidden coves to golden sweeps, Mykonos is primed for beach vacations. Dedicate several days to lounging at beauties such as Psarou or Lia beach before discovering wider Mykonos. Browse boutiques in trendy Mykonos Town, admire the island’s windmills, and join in the wild beach parties and nighttime clubbing scene.
...MoreYes. Mykonos is regarded as one of the world’s top LGBTQ destinations. Although local life remains fairly traditional, the tourist scene first embraced gay visitors in the 1960s. Today, the vast majority of hotels are LGBQT-friendly, and the island is home to countless LGBTQ bars, nightclubs, parties, and events.
...MoreMost Mykonos holidaymakers spend their days on the beach, recharging for the raucous night ahead. To start the party early, hit bar-lined Paradise beach, or escape to one of the island’s quieter bays. Alternatively, enjoy lunch at a seafront Little Venice eatery, go snorkeling, or sail to see Delos’ classical ruins.
...MoreNo Mykonos vacation is complete without sampling its party scene. At dusk, begin with cocktails in downtown Mykonos—the 180 Degrees Sunset Bar serves drinks alongside sunset views. Then, join the throngs at the frenetic Tropicana Beach Bar at Paradise Beach before hitting Cavo Paradiso’s heaving dance floor and outdoor pool.
...MorePlenty. Ride a ferry to the islet of Delos to roam the ruins of its ancient Greek temples, theater, and houses and to explore its statue-filled museum. Alternatively, carve through Mykonos’ aquamarine waters on a catamaran cruise, or strike out inland to discover sleepy villages, secret beaches, and the island’s iconic windmills.
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