One of the biggest celebrity hotspots, Mykonos is best known for being the most cosmopolitan Greek island destination. Part of the Cyclades chain, it is situated between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. According to the myth, Mykonos is where the battle of Zeus and the Giants took place and that the island took it’s form from the fallen Giants killed by Hercules. Also based on another myth, Mykonos is named after the grandson of the god Apollonas who was the first ruler of the island.


Mykonos was probably the first Greek island that was touristically developed. Known for its traditional blindingly white houses and vivid nightlife, it is a magnet for young tourists year after year. However, the island has more to offer than just partying. It has a long spanning history, with numerous old churches and a handful of museums, like the archaeological, the nautical and the folklore museum where visitors can learn about the rich history and culture of this beautiful island.


The Capital.


Chora is the capital of Mykonos. It features the traditional white houses with colourful wooden doors and spectacular bougainvilleas that make the whole island look like a painting. The whole capital is easily explored on foot and visitors can stroll down the main street of Matogianni, where they will find boutique shops, souvenir shops, jewellery shops, numerous cafes, restaurants and bars.
 

Things To Do and See in Mykonos

Tourists always love a good sunset. Where is the best place to be for a sunset in Mykonos? Well that will have to be Little Venice. A seafront neighborhood of  elegant old traditional houses that are all perched right by the water. It's magnetic and magical atmosphere attracts thousands of visitors daily.  Scattered on the waterfront, Little Venice has a array of restaurants, tavernas, bars and cafes that are filled with people all day every day. The sunset is a spectacular sight from this neighborhood, creating a very romantic and breathtaking atmosphere.

Mykonos Windmills

An agricultural innovation of the past, the windmills of Mykonos are one of the main features of the landscape that everyone pictures when thinking of the island. It is believed that the Venetians built the windmills in the 1600's in an attempt to use the power of the wind to grind the islands agricultural produce. Nowadays, the windmills do not operate, but are a very popular sight amongst travellers as it gives them a peak into the islands vast history.

In the village of  Kastro, which is nearby Chora, there is a beautiful church called "The Church of Panagia Paraportiani". The church was located by the castle door, and for that reason it was named "Paraportiani" which means "standing next to the door". A lot of people will have seen this church in thousands of pictures as it is considered to be one of  the most photographed churches in the whole world. A notable fact about the church is that it is actually 5 small churches all of different architectural styles, some of which are the Byzantine style, the Vernacular, the traditional and the western style. These churches were not all built at once, but they were constructed gradually, one on top of the other or next to each other.

Just a few miles off Mykonos, one will find the tiny and full of rocks island of Delos. Considered to be one of the most significant archaelogical sights in Greece, mentioned in many Greek myths and history books. In Greek mythology, the island is where the god of music, Apollo and the goddess of hunting, Artemis were born. Visitors exploring the monumental island will come upon many antiques from the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic period and will undeniably be impressed.

Walking through the streets of Mykonos, which can be confused for labyrinths, visitors are very likely to come upon Peter the Pelican. His greek name is Petros and he is officially the mascot of the island. He has been living in Mykonos ever since 1954 and enjoys the attention from both locals and tourists. This cute bird always seems to be having a good time frolicking around the island.

The majority of beaches in Greece are absolutely stunning, but one of the most spectacular beaches is in Mykonos. Known as the Super Paradise Beach, it  is located next to Paradise Beach and is a must for everyone visiting the island. There are daily boat taxis, boat and local bus services available that can drop tourists off at this dazzling beach. With no pebbles in sight, the beach has beautiful golden sand and the waters are just as blue as the sky. It makes the perfect destination for a fun day out, with many facilities available, such as watersports, restaurants and many bars that have day and night parties.

Another great beach for families but also youngsters is Kalo Livadi Beach. It is a very long sandy beach that has several facilities available, such as bars and tavernas and is very well organised with many sun beds and umbrellas. Many beach parties are hosted here during the summer season. However, despite the beach parties it is a great choice for families as the water is very shallow and crystal clear.

Looking for some thrill during your time in Mykonos? Well the perfect thing to do is the Jeep Safari Tour. During this, visitors will get to see secret spots in Mykonos that are only reachable by jeeps. Hidden and secluded landmarks, churches, coves, and magnificent views are some of the few things you will get to see. Make the experience even better by driving the Jeep yourself. Some of the amazing places you will visit is Houlakia beach, Panormos beach, Agios Sostis and Ano Mera.

Popular Resorts of Mykonos

Close to Mykonos Town, a very popular resort is the village of Agios Stefanos, named after the church with a red roof that can be seen at the end of the beach. A small little village right on the edge of the beach, there are many facilities and services available for tourists to enjoy. Sunbathe under the sizzling hot sun on comfy sunbeds, have a ringo ride or try waterskiing at the water sports centre and enjoy a relaxing and fantastic meal at one of the many tavernas. Approximately 3km away from Mykonos Town, the area has a variety of accommodation available from luxurious villas and houses to comfortable self-catering apartments and hotels.

If you are looking for a less touristy and commercialised area to enjoy your summer holiday, then Kalafati is the place for you. Approximately a 25-minute drive from Mykonos Town, Kalafati is a coastal village that has quieter and calmer beaches than the rest of the island. This beautiful fishing village is popular amongst tourists who are more interested in sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving to shipwrecks. Very modern bars and restaurants are located in this village, but also more traditional and casual tavernas and pizzerias can be found.  Agia Anna beach is very close to the village, where tourists will see the marina and the Santa Anna church. There is a huge choice of accommodation to choose from, like self-catering apartments, luxury villas and elegant hotels.

The second largest village after Chora is a village called Ano Mera. Just 7 kilometres from the airport, this village is the oldest on the island. Tourists can choose from a variety of hotels and self-catering apartments, some of which are very luxurious and others that are more traditional. A busy village during the summer but not as vibrant as some of the other commercialised villages, allowing locals to continue with their every day traditional life and routines with no interruptions. A must see during your visit here, is the 16th century monastery of Panagia Tourliani, home to countless of icons, holy vessels and vestments and a spectacular bell tower and marble fountain. Like most of the villages, here too you will find a great selection of bakeries, tavernas and cafes on the narrow streets. For anyone who enjoys a good hike and walk, there are walking trails that lead to the rocky and hilly landscape and towards beautiful golden sandy beaches.

Tourlos is a coastal village which is constantly developing. This is where Mykonos New Port is and where tourists arrive by ferries, cruise shops and luxurious private villas. Many glamorous A-list celebrities holiday in this resort, staying in stunning villas on the hill. The village offers a great range of seafront tavernas, bars and cafes.