A popular starting point for walking tours, this square is named for Manto Mavrogenous, the Greek war heroine famous for her role in the Greek War of Independence. An unassuming statue in her honor stands at the heart of the square, while tourists and locals dine, stroll, and chat on all sides. The square is a staple for sightseeing and food tours and shore excursions in the old town, known locally as Chora or Hora, as well as an excellent spot for a meal of mezethes (Greek appetizers), washed down with island wine.
Ferries arrive and depart from Mykonos’ new port in Tourlos, leaving the harbor lining Manto Mavrogenous Square to picturesquely bobbing fishing boats. The island’s ferry port and airport are about a 10-minute taxi ride away, and the square is within walking distance from hotels and other accommodations in the old town.
The square bustles with activity from morning to late into the night, but the most striking time of day to visit is sunset. Though much of Mykonos shutters during the quiet winter months, the old town of Chora and its hub of a central square remain lively all year round.
In addition to the warren of whitewashed buildings and twisting lanes in the old harbor town of Chora, Manto Mavrogenous Square is within walking distance of a number of top island sights. The famed windmills of Mykonos and seafront Panagia Paraportiani chapel are no more than 10 minutes away on foot, as are the endearing Aegean Maritime Museum and Mykonos Folklore Museum.
