Welcome to Mykons, the white island

Things to know about Mykonos

Location

Mykonos is a Greek island that is part of the Cyclades between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos in the Aegean Sea.

Surface area

85.5 km²

Inhabitants

10.134

Capital city

Mykonos Town (Chora) In Greek mythology, Mykonos (Μύκονος) was the first ruler of the white Cycladic island. According to legend, the island was the scene of the Gigantomachy, the great battle between Zeus and the giants.

Why Mykonos is worth a visit

Mykonos highlights at a glance

Nature and environment

Rocky coastal landscapes in the north, picturesque sandy beaches in the south: the further you travel inland from the popular dream beaches of Mykonos, the more you discover the island's rugged landscape. The island consists mainly of granite: according to mythology, Hercules is said to have buried the giants under the rocks that he killed in the legendary battle between gods and giants. The highest peaks are Prophet Elias Vorniotis (372 m) and Prophet Elias Anomeritis (341 m). Basically, the hilly landscape is very barren - due to the many hours of sunshine, the long periods of drought and the wind. Herbs and spices such as oregano and thyme in particular, but also wild flowers, brushwood and maquis as well as olive trees thrive in the dry conditions on the island.

On Mykonos, everything is concentrated on the beaches in the south and south-west of the island, including the bays of Ornos, Tourlos or Agios Ioannis with long sandy beaches and small, rocky bays. In contrast, the north is somewhat quieter - which also appeals to the local animal species. The rocky coastal landscape is ideal for birds in particular, as they can find hiding places to nest in the slopes and caves. While sparrows, blackbirds and pigeons stay on Mykonos all year round, swifts and hoopoes come to the island from Africa in spring during the mating season. Endangered species such as Aegean gulls, crows and herring gulls can also be seen circling over the island. As is typical for Mediterranean islands, there are also reptiles such as the Lafiatis snake and the crocodile lizard and mammals such as wild rabbits and hares. Those who explore the quieter, less touristy side of Mykonos may also have the pleasure of seeing dolphins, the Mediterranean monk seal or sea turtles.

Culture and history

Those familiar with Greek mythology will know that, according to legend, Mykonos was created when Heracles threw the giants he defeated in battle into the sea. It is said that they solidified into stone and formed what is now the Cyclades island. In ancient times, however, the island of Delos, two kilometres away, was an important cultural and religious centre - the twin gods Artemis and Apollo are said to have been born here. According to tradition, however, it was forbidden for people to be born or die on the island. It is therefore assumed that many people travelled back and forth between Delos and Mykonos - and from this development, Mykonos became an increasingly important island.

Like many other Cycladic islands, Mykonos later came under various rulers - such as the Venetians and the Ottomans until its liberation in the mid-19th century. Traces of this exciting cultural history can still be found on the island today, for example at the archaeological excavation sites of Delos, in the famous "Little Venice" district in Mykonos Town or in the many smaller villages with their typical Cycladic architecture. However, it took more than a century for these places on Mykonos to become the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. Until the 1920s, Mykonos remained a small, less important island that lived mainly from fishing. It was not until the interwar years that tourism began to take off, making the island one of the most cosmopolitan places and one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world today.

Food and drink

Gyros, befteki, tsatsiki: it goes without saying that Mykonos also offers the typical Greek dishes for which tourists love the country. However, as the Cyclades island is one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean, there is much more to discover in culinary terms - namely local specialities on Mykonos:

Appetisers

- 🧀 Kopanisti Mykonou: Kopanisti Mykonou is a soft cheese made on Mykonos, Syros and Tinos from sheep's milk, goat's milk or a mixture of both types of milk. It is based on the creamy, slightly sour Tirovolia cheese, which is used for many fillings and pies.
- 🧀 Xinotyri: Xinotyri is a tangy cheese made from sheep's milk. On Mykonos, it is customary to dry it for several weeks and use it as grated cheese. In contrast to xinomysithra, which remains a soft cheese and must be eaten within a few days.
- 🌿 Mostra: A favourite accompaniment to ouza, mostra are rusks made from barley, spread with Kopanisti cheese and topped with large, ripe tomatoes. They are accompanied by olive oil, oregano and capers. Depending on the season, mostra are also served with grapes instead of tomatoes.

Main courses

- 🌿 Kremmydopita: Kremmydopita is one of the oldest, most traditional dishes on Mykonos - a savoury pie filled with feta, ricotta or Greek yoghurt and onions as well as wild herbs and spices.
- 🌿 Kafematika: The black beans of Mykonos are called kafematika and are often served with the local louza.
- Louza: Louza is a pork sausage that is not smoked on Mykonos but dried in the sun. It also contains savoury herbs, pepper, spices, salt and finely chopped oregano. Louza are often eaten as a mezze, together with kountoures, a wine made from black grapes.
- Dolmadakia: For dolmadakia, vine leaves are filled with meat (either lamb or beef) and rice. Dolmadakia are a favourite snack, especially in the warm midday hours when people are looking for light meals.
- Omeletta: On Mykonos, omelettes are served with onions, spinach, tomatoes and feta cheese - and are typically topped with bacon.

Desserts

- Baklava: As in the rest of Greece, baklava is a typical and popular dessert on Mykonos. The puff pastry with honey, nuts and butter is the sweetest thing you will ever try!
- Melopita: The honey cake is one of the most popular sweets on Mykonos - it even has its own ice cream flavour. Melopita are made from sheets of dough filled with the traditional Tirovolia cheese and soaked in cinnamon and honey.
- Amygdalota: Amygdalota are traditional biscuits with a distinctive rose and almond flavour. On Mykonos they are found in an elongated shape - and are eaten as a dessert or served as a snack with Greek coffee.
- Rafiolia: Rafiolia is made by frying dough with honey and oranges, which is often filled with tirovolia, a cheese made from sheep's or goat's milk. There are also savoury versions, which are refined with herbs and onions.
- Galaktoboureko: Galaktoboureko were already popular in ancient Greece. Similar to bougatsa, the filo pastries are soaked in syrup and often flavoured with citrus fruits.
- Lazarakia: Lazarakia are biscuits sprinkled with sugar and sultanas that are typically baked on Holy Saturday - they commemorate the resurrection of Lazarus and mark the beginning of Holy Week in the Orthodox Church. They are said to resemble Lazarus in appearance, with crossed arms and a wreath around the head.

Weather and climate

Mykonos is also known as the "island of winds", which is due to the Meltemi winds that blow across the Aegean Sea in summer. However, this does not change the fact that it can get very hot in the summer months: The long, hot dry season begins as early as May, with temperatures reaching up to 29° C. The warm, semi-arid climate is ideal for water sports, swimming and beach holidays, as up to 12 hours of sunshine and few to no rainy days can be expected. The reason for this is the Pindus Mountains, where the winds coming from the west blow off. The best time to visit is June and July with air temperatures of 22 - 29°C and water temperatures of more than 25°C.

The temperate Mediterranean climate of the Cyclades Islands also means that it stays relatively warm in winter. The late summer bathing weather lasts well into October - it is only in November that temperatures drop below 20°C and the rainy season begins. This lasts until March, which is why it is cool, windy and damp with daily highs of around 15°C. After a short spring that bathes the island in a sea of flowers, summer begins at the end of April and beginning of May - and with it the high season on Mykonos.

Events and public holidays

As on the mainland and other Greek islands, the majority of the population on Mykonos is of the Greek Orthodox faith. Easter, Pentecost and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary are among the most important public holidays and are widely celebrated on the island. Equally important are church consecration and patron saint festivals, which are celebrated in many places with large village festivals (Panigiri) in honour of patron saints on their name days.

Important public holidays on Mykonos

- 1 January: New Year
- 6 January: Three Wise Men (Theofania)
- Rose Monday (floating public holiday)
- 25 March: National holiday of the Greek Revolution of 1821
- Easter (floating public holiday)
- 1 May: Labour Day
- Whitsun (floating public holiday)
- 15 August: Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- 14 September: Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross in Mykonos Town
- 28 October: National holiday (Ochi Day)

Important: As the predominant religion in Greece is Orthodox Christianity, the public holidays are based on the Julian calendar - such as Easter and Pentecost. Find out more about the festivals and public holidays in Greece.

Places of interest Historical sites

Delos

One of the most valuable archaeological sites in Greece is located on Delos, one of Mykonos' neighbouring islands. Anyone familiar with Greek mythology will recognise the island as the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. One of the most famous excavations is the Terrace of the Lions from the 7th century BC, of which nine of the original 16 lions are still preserved. There are also many other interesting places to discover: the House of Dionysus with its huge marble columns and a well-preserved mosaic floor in the courtyard, the House of Masks and the House of Dolphins with extraordinary mosaics and frescoes or the Doric Temple of the Delians. From the Temple of Isis you have a fantastic view of the entire archaeological site. Perhaps most impressive is the theatre district, where you can still see streets, workshops and shops that tell of the island's flourishing past. Excursion boats depart daily in season, every 30 minutes from the New Harbour in Tourlos or the Old Harbour in Chora - and reach the Museum Island in less than 10 minutes.

sunbonoo tip: You should also visit the Delos Archaeological Museum, which is located at Ano Mili on Mykonos. Many of the historical artefacts that were excavated on Delos are on display in the nine large rooms of the museum.

Panagia Tourliani Monastery

Every year on the Feast of the Assumption (15 August), believers make a pilgrimage to the Panagia Tourliani Monastery in Ano Mera. The monastery, built in 1542, was dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. But a trip to the monastery is also worthwhile for tourists - especially for its architecture. The exterior is in the simple marble style of the Cyclades, while the interior impresses with a magnificent iconostasis of the Virgin Mary, many ornate images of saints and an imposing pulpit. There is also a small museum in the monastery where you can learn more about icons from the Byzantine era and the first church bells. If you are travelling inland to Ano Mera, you should also visit the village itself - and enjoy the rustic charm of the tavernas and cafés. Hiking trails lead into the surrounding rocky hills and to the nearby beaches of Kalafati, Agia Anna or Kalo Livadi.

Armenistis lighthouse

The Armenistis lighthouse is located in the north-west of Mykonos, or to be more precise, it towers over Cape Armenistis. If you like the many small white and blue chapels in Mykonos Town, you'll love the lighthouse! The lighthouse was built in the 19th century after an English ship ran aground on a nearby shore and sank along with eleven crew members. Since then, the 19 metre high tower has emitted a white light signal every 10 seconds as a memorial. After a somewhat bumpy journey via Tourlos and Agios Stefanos, a fantastic view over the Aegean awaits you, as the lighthouse is located at the outer, north-western tip of Mykonos. A highlight is watching the sun set over the strait between Tinos and Mykonos from here!

Ftelia

The Neolithic settlement of Ftelia is located in the north of the island. It dates back to the 5th century B.C. In ancient times, the site was probably identified with the grave of the mythical warrior Ajax the Small. This is one of the reasons why Ftelia is an excursion destination for holidaymakers interested in Greece's ancient prehistory. During the excavations, wall foundations were also uncovered and a variety of pottery, obsidian tools and stone figurines were found, which tell us a lot about the island's millennia-old culture.

Natural beauties

If you want to explore the nature of the Cyclades island, the first thing that comes to mind are the island's picture-book beaches. The typical beaches of Mykonos are located in the south in particular, with golden sand that slopes into the crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water. However, if you are looking for a trip into nature rather than spending time on the popular and lively beaches, there are several other remote natural attractions on the island:

Marathi Lake

While tourists mainly flock to the beaches in the south-west and east of the island, the north of Mykonos is quieter and more idyllic. Hardly anyone is therefore drawn to Lake Marathi - one of the island's two water reservoirs and an important wetland area. You can walk or cycle around the reservoir on a dirt track. The best place to start is at the northern part of the lake, cross the dam and walk or cycle the other four kilometres around the lake. The nearby beaches of Agos Sostis or Fokos are also worth a visit. While tourists flock to the beaches in the south, it is quieter and more idyllic here, but no less picturesque. We also recommend Panormos Beach with its picturesque dunes that rise up behind the beach and provide protection from the typical winds on the north coast. Here, two rustic tavernas invite you to take a break and savour traditional Greek delicacies.

Paranga Bay

If you are looking for a beach that promises more relaxation than the popular picture-book beaches of Mykonos, you should travel to Paranga Bay. The picturesque bay is located just four kilometres from Mykonos Town, but is far less frequented than other, better-known beaches on the island. You can even take a hike to the bay - it's only a ten-minute walk from Plati Gialos. Once you reach the bay, you will find a quiet, clean beach that slopes gently into the glistening turquoise water. There are also several tavernas here where you can eat more traditionally and more cheaply than in the tourist resorts.

Rinia

Southwest of Mykonos lies Rinia (Rheneia), another Cycladic island measuring just 10 square kilometres. The island is made up of two parts that are only connected by a narrow headland. Rinia is somewhat overshadowed by the neighbouring island of Delos: in ancient times, the island served as a burial place for the dead of Delos. Today, there are not only goats on the uninhabited island, but also several excavation sites, most of whose art-historically valuable finds can be found in the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos Town. Rinia is also visited by excursion boats at regular intervals - and is also worth a trip for nature lovers who want to discover the rocky coastal landscape.

City trips

Mykonos Town

Even before the first day of your holiday on Mykonos begins, you already have a picture of the island - mainly characterised by the island's main town, Mykonos Town (Chora). Just one of the typical postcard motifs are the characteristic whitewashed houses of "Little Venice", whose colourful wooden balconies tower over the coast. But there is much more to discover in the island's capital:

- "Little Venice": to the west of the Old Harbour lies "Little Venice", a small district with quiet, winding alleyways. What makes it special, however, is the waterside, which gives "Little Venice" its name: Houses whose wooden balconies and bay windows tower over the sea in shades of blue and green are reminiscent of Venice. More precisely, the Venetians who ruled Mykonos in the 13th century, even though the tradition of house design actually dates back to the Ottoman occupation of the 16th century. Today, the houses house private flats, but also exclusive luxury flats. There are also restaurants everywhere, with tables and chairs on the narrow paths and terraces overlooking the sea. A special highlight here is dining at sunset, when you can watch the sun set over the windmills.
- Tria Pigada: The centre of the Chora is the Tria Pigada district. Here you will find three 6 metre deep wells ("Three Wells"), which supplied Mykonos Town with water until the 1950s. Apart from that, the neighbourhood is the best starting point for exploring the sights, restaurants, clubs and shopping opportunities of the town. One of the busiest streets is Matogiannia Street: here and in the narrow alleyways around the street you will find dozens of shops selling everything from handmade jewellery to designer brands. You can stroll through the special Cycladic architecture of lime-white houses with colourful windows, balconies and roofs.
- Kato Mili: Mykonos' landmarks include sixteen windmills dotted around the island. Even those who have never been to the island will recognise them and their typical white facades, conical roofs and very small windows. Five of the windmills are located on the Ano Mili hill in Mykonos Town at the entrance to the harbour in Alefkandra. It's worth a walk, as the views across the Mediterranean are unbeatable. It is also home to the Agricultural Museum, which exhibits a water reservoir and a stone wine press, among other things.
- Panagia Paraportani Church: The Panagia Paraportani Church is the largest religious building on the island in the Kastro neighbourhood. Originally there were four churches - Saint Estathios, Saint Sozon, Saint Anargyroi and Saint Anastasia - whose history dates back to 1425. Over the course of time, the individual chapels became one complex until the unusual shape of today was created. St Mary's Church is now in danger of collapsing and can no longer be visited from the inside. Nevertheless, it is well worth the walk to this imposing, unique church.
- Archaeological Museum: Near the old harbour of Mykonos Town, finds dating from the 25th to the 1st century BC are on display. These include ancient amphorae, gravestones and ceramics as well as artefacts from the necropolis.

Location: Μύκονος 846 00 Opening hours: in winter Wednesday - Monday 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (closed on Tuesdays) Admission: €4 (reduced €2)
- Folklore Museum: On the opposite side of the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum is another place well worth a visit. Here, everyday objects, ship models and cannons are exhibited that illustrate the life of the Greeks on Mykonos in the 19th century.

Location: Μύκονος 846 00 Opening hours: in winter Monday - Saturday 8:30 to 15:30 (closed on Sundays) Admission: €4 (reduced €2)
- Paradise Beach: As Greece's party island, there is more than one beach on Mykonos, lined with countless beach bars, clubs and discos. The best known - and most popular - are Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach. Thousands of party-loving island visitors flock here in the summer months!

Ano Mera

Ano Mera is the opposite of Mykonos Town: the village is only around 8 kilometres from the Chora, but is much quieter, cosier and more authentic than the lively island capital - not least because fewer tourists come to the village. Nevertheless, Ano Mero is the second largest village on the island and is home to several sights: the restored 16th century church of Panagia Tourliani, the hilltop castle of Gyzi and the monastery of Paleokastro. Around the monastery there are several bakeries, tavernas and cafés with outdoor terraces offering traditional Greek cuisine at reasonable prices. Hiking trails lead through the surrounding landscape of rocky hills to beaches such as Kalafati Beach or Paralia Kalo Livadi, where things quickly become more lively again.

Ornos

Ornos is a popular holiday resort, only about 2 kilometres from Mykonos. More and more tourists are discovering the small town for themselves, so that not only fishing boats but also luxury yachts are mooring here. A special feature of the village are its two bays, so that Ornos has two beaches - Ornos Beach and Korfos Beach. Korfos Beach is particularly popular, partly because it is perfect for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Tours, excursions and activities

Beach excursions

Sun-seekers have it the easiest on Mykonos: up to 14 hours of sunshine in midsummer make every day a perfect beach day. But the island with its golden beaches and turquoise waters is also perfect for other types of holidaymakers - from families looking for quiet bays to party animals looking for beach bars, sun loungers and water sports. sunbonoo knows the best beaches on Mykonos:

Psarou Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach, organised 📍 approx. 4 km south of Mykonos Town

Psarou Beach in the south-west is one of the most exclusive beaches on the island, where the odd celebrity holidaymaker from Mykonos moors their private yacht. Everything is a little more luxurious on Psarou Beach, which is reflected in the prices of sunbeds, beach bars and cafés. Despite the glamour, there are still stretches of beach that are free for bathers - to enjoy a day on the beautiful sandy beach and in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters.

Kalafati Beach

ℹ️ Sand and stone beach, organised, for water sports fans 📍 10 km west of Mykonos Town

To the east, not far from Ano Mera, water sports enthusiasts will find their paradise at Kalafati Beach - also known as the island's sports beach. The generally stronger winds on the east coast make windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing on Kalafati Beach particularly fun. The clean sandy beach and crystal-clear water are also ideal for relaxing days on the beach, as Kalafati Beach is one of the quieter beaches on the island.

Ornos Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach, organised, family-friendly 📍 3 km south of Mykonos Town

Not far from Mykonos Town is Ornos Beach, which many people visit for its diving schools and windsurfing facilities. Apart from that, the beach is also popular with families: after reaching it on foot (approx. 45 minutes) or by bus from the island's capital, children can play on the sandy beach or swim in the shallow, clear water.

Paranga Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach 📍 6 km south of Mykonos town

Paranga Beach is located in a small bay, away from the lively Paradise Beach. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the party beaches, Paranga Beach is just the place for you - there is a quieter stretch of beach here, without any beach bars or sunbeds. In good weather, you can see as far as Paros and Naxos. The beach is also well-known among tourists who want to eat traditionally but cheaply in the island's most colourful tavernas.

Platis Gialos Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach, organised, family-friendly 📍 approx. 5 km from Mykonos Town

Soft golden sand, crystal-clear water, hardly any wind: Platis Gialos Beach is a long sandy beach just a few kilometres from the island's capital. Families in particular love the beach, where party or nudist holidaymakers are not too welcome. A tip for the adventurous: climb one of the hills that surround the beach. From here you have a stunning view - especially at sunset or dawn.

Paradise and Super Paradise Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach, for party people, touristy 📍 5 -6 km south of Mykonos Town

The ultimate party hotspots of Mykonos are not far from each other - Paradise and Super Paradise Beach. Both beaches are bustling all day long, with countless sunbeds, cocktail and beach bars and Greek restaurants on the promenade. Those looking for the perfect party will find countless options here from the afternoon onwards. On the other hand, it is better to come to the beaches with children in the morning, when things are still quiet and relaxed.

Kalo Livadi

ℹ️ Sandy beach, touristy, organised 📍 9 km south-east of Mykonos Town

Kalo Livadi Beach on the south-east coast is one of the longest beaches - where the longest party nights also take place. Many Mykonos holidaymakers are drawn to the beach with its beach bars and restaurants, which are lively well into the night. During the day, however, the sandy beach is also popular with families, as children can play in the shallow water or try out the many water sports on offer.

Elia Beach

ℹ️ Sandy beach with small stones, organised, nudist-friendly 📍 approx. 10 km south-east of Mykonos Town

Elia Beach is a large sandy beach in the south-eastern part of Mykonos. Thanks to the majestic cliffs that frame the bright blue sea, Elia Beach is windless. The left half of the beach is particularly suitable for holidaymakers who want to enjoy the quiet, relaxed atmosphere on the clean sandy beach - or try their hand at water sports. The right half, on the other hand, is popular with the LGQBT+ community and naturists.

Agios Ioannis Beach

ℹ️ Pebble beach, organised 📍 12 km southwest of Fira

The small beach of Agios Ioannis is located in the western part of Mykonos. Families in particular are drawn to the windless beach surrounded by high hills, which - almost untypically for Mykonos - is not overcrowded with other tourists. Instead, you can enjoy a few relaxing hours on the sandy beach, in the bright blue water or at the pier with its small fishing and tourist boats.

Adventure excursions

Delos

Three times a day (except Mondays) an excursion boat departs from the old harbour in Mykonos Town to the museum island of Delos. A 30-minute journey takes you to the island, which is only 6.8 square metres in size and was considered a sacred place in ancient Greece because Apollo, god of daylight, and Artemis, goddess of night light, are said to have been born here. To this day, Delos is a culturally valuable place - and as one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. For this reason, the famous Lion Terraces and numerous ruins and temple foundations in the Doric style are never omitted from the guided tours. The boat tours to the island always include guided tours of the archaeological sites.

Tinos

Ten kilometres from Mykonos lies the island of Tinos, where the wind god Aiolos is said to have been born. The entire length of the island is criss-crossed by mountains - the highest of which is Tsiknias at 727 metres. However, a hike to Exomvourgo is well worthwhile: after visiting the Ieras Kardiadis monastery at its foot, the highest castle in the Aegean awaits you at the summit. Here you can enjoy a marvellous view of the islands of Samos, Naxos, Delos and Ikaria. If you then continue along the hiking trails around the Exomvourgo Mountains, you will discover the typical Tinos landscape: hundreds of churches and chapels scattered across the island in small villages surrounded by rocks. You will also see many dovecotes - square towers made of slate, stone and limestone with geometric patterns and colourful lithographs. You can also visit the Temple of Poseidon, the Volax lunar landscape and the pilgrimage basilica.

Boat trips

Sailing trips, catamaran tours or private excursions on luxury yachts: Mykonos is made to be discovered from the water in all directions. The Meltemi winds typical of the Cyclades in particular make the island perfect for boat trips of all kinds - to the dream beaches on the south coast of the island, to secluded bays in the north or to the surrounding neighbouring islands. sunbonoo has three tips for unforgettable boat trips during your holiday on Mykonos:

By catamaran to Rhenia and Delos

The sister islands of Delos and Rhenia are the destinations of full-day catamaran tours from Mykonos. Those who find the crowds of tourists on the beaches in the south and south-west of the island overwhelming will love boat tours like these. Time and again, the skipper drops anchor in front of some of the most beautiful dream beaches and paradise bays in the Cyclades - where there are far fewer people. After this boat tour, you will know the south coast of Mykonos, have enjoyed sunbathing on some of the most beautiful beaches and snorkelling in the crystal-clear Aegean Sea. Depending on the excursion, there is often also time to explore the museum island of Delos, whose archaeological sites are a UNSECO World Heritage Site.

Watching the sunset on a sailing boat

Many tourists look for the perfect view of the breathtaking sunset in the villages along the coast of Mykonos every day. Competing with hundreds of other tourists for the best viewpoint can be a stressful experience - a relaxed alternative is a sailing trip. On 2- to 3-hour tours, you sail across the Aegean until you drop anchor in a secluded bay - and find a unique spot to watch the sunset over an aperitif. Also a romantic idea for couples who want to enjoy some time together away from the tourist crowds.

Discover Mykonos from the sea with private yachts

Those looking for even more privacy can hire yachts, sailing boats or motorboats with a skipper. This is also one of the most personalised ways to discover Mykonos, as you can choose your own excursion destinations. Almost anything is possible: cruising the beaches on the south coast, making spontaneous swimming stops at secluded bays or travelling to the wild dragon island of Dragonisi and diving into caves.

More offers for boat trips on Mykonos.

Cycling and hiking tours

Even though Mykonos is one of the best-known Greek islands, at around 85 square kilometres it is surprisingly one of the smallest archipelagos in the Mediterranean. This makes the island manageable and therefore perfect for exploring in a hire car, on a scooter or on cycling and hiking tours. The old donkey paths are wonderful to walk along in all directions, where you can see the typical blue and white Greece with old chapels, small harbours and old chapels. We have two hiking trails for you:

To the paradise beach

Route: Platis Gialos - Panangka Beach - Paradise Beach Distance: approx. 3 km

Even if you're not looking for the biggest party, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach are among the places you should definitely visit on your holiday in Mykonos. It's best to set off in the morning to get to know the beaches from their quieter side. A good starting point for the hike is the coastal village of Platis Gialos, from here it is about 3 kilometres to Paradise Beach. The hike leads along the coast to a headland where the beach of Panangka is located. Here you can stop for a swim, visit one of the restaurants or continue walking through the village to the famous Paradise Beach. Until lunchtime, the beach is not one of the island's big party hotspots - and invites you to relax.

To the Armenistis lighthouse

Route: Tourlos - Armenistis Lighthouse Distance: approx. 4 km

If you want to visit the Armenistis lighthouse, you can start the tour from Tourlos. The road up to the lighthouse is an adventure. Once there, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360° view - to the Prophet Elias in the east or across the Aegean Sea in the north. The route is only around 4 kilometres long, but is a little more strenuous due to the paths. However, you will be rewarded with the fabulous view.

Nightlife

Mykonos is the party island par excellence - with famous DJs spinning on Paradise Beach, exuberant beach parties on Elia Beach or expensive champagne showers in exclusive clubs in Mykonos Town. If you want to party until the sun rises again over the Aegean, Mykonos is the place to be! From relaxed bar evenings to glamorous VIP parties, there's so much on offer on this colourful, cosmopolitan party island - especially in the island's capital and its paradise beaches. sunbonoo knows the island's most exciting hotspots:

- - Paradise Beach: Paradise Club Mykonos and Cavo Paradiso rank among the most popular clubs in the world - and are also the biggest, most famous of their kind on Mykonos. From April to October, the beach bars and clubs on Paradise Beach attract partygoers day and night, not least for well-known DJs such as Nervo, Tiesto and Afrojack, who regularly play here in the height of summer.
- Super Paradise Beach: In addition to Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach has also been a well-known party location on Mykonos for many years. Party holidaymakers, jetsetters and VIPs meet here to party in the bars and clubs. Super Paradise Beach is also well frequented by people from the LGQBT+ community, who find many alternative and anti-conformist places to party safely on the beach.
- Jackie O' Bar: Watching the sunset over a cocktail at the Jackie O' Bar in Mykonos Town is just as enjoyable as watching a drag show a few hours later. The bar, not far from Little Venice, is one of the most popular gay bars on Mykonos!
- Cine Manto: If you want to experience some culture before you go dancing, you should visit the open-air cinema Cíne Mánto in Mykonos Town. In a cosy garden between white houses typical of the Cyclades, films have been shown here in the open air for many years.
- Skandinavian Bar: The Skandinavian Bar & Disco in Mykonos Town has been one of the most popular venues for party holidaymakers since the 1970s. There are three rooms and an inner courtyard where you can party - together with other holidaymakers from all over the world.
- The Queen of Mykonos: Literally the queen of bars is "The Queen of Mykonos" in the centre of Chora. In the champagne and cocktail bar, you can mingle with people over exotic, handmade cocktails and enjoy the cosmopolitan, colourful island atmosphere. Favourite destination for the LGQBT+ community

Mykonos is known worldwide as a favourite destination for the LGQBT+ community, as the island has been open to homosexuals and transsexuals from all over the world since the 1980s. Mykonos is cosmopolitan, open-minded and colourful - from nudist-friendly beaches such as Elia Beach to the gay party scene in Mykonos Town and the annual XLSIOR festival in August. One of the hotspots is the Jackie O' Beach Club near the old harbour of Mykonos Town, which regularly hosts drag shows, among other things.

Mykonos travel tips

General travel tips Entry and exit

In general, it is important to find out about the current travel regulations regarding the Covid19 pandemic before your holiday in Mykonos. Greece is not currently a high-risk area, so there is no travel warning from the German Foreign Office. As a result, no entry forms or testing requirements are necessary for vaccinated travellers. Exceptions are unvaccinated persons and those with a history of the disease: a PCR test (max. 72 hours old) or rapid antigen test (max. 24 hours old) must be carried out before entering the country. The same applies to return or departure.

The following must be observed:
- There is a general FFP2 mask requirement.
- You must be able to show proof of vaccination, testing or recovery when travelling by plane, ship, ferry or public transport such as buses. The same also applies to many shops - although this may vary from place to place.
- Hotels and other accommodation are open.
- 2G applies in indoor areas of restaurants, cafés, bars and other establishments, 3G in outdoor areas.
- As a rule, sights and museums are open with capacity restrictions. 2G applies in cinemas, museums and clubs.
- Only unvaccinated people need a current negative rapid test in shops (with the exception of supermarkets and pharmacies). Further and updated information can be found on the website of the Greek Tourism Authority.

Travelling

By aeroplane

Mykonos has an international airport (JMK) with regular flights, which is only an 8-minute drive from Mykonos Town. There are direct flights to and from Germany, Austria and Switzerland, as well as flights with a stopover in the Greek capital Athens.

By car

Travelling to Mykonos by car is rather unusual, as the route always leads through Greece - for example to Patras via Corinth to the port of Athens, from where car ferries depart for Mykonos. Mykonos is one of several destinations on the 5-hour crossing.

By ferry

Several ferries depart daily from the Greek mainland to Mykonos in the high season. The journey from the harbour town of Piraeus takes a maximum of 5 hours. The journey is quicker from Rafina: Depending on the type of ferry, the crossing takes 2 1/2 to 4 hours and is also slightly cheaper at around €30. Mykonos is also an important hub for ferry connections to other islands such as Santorini, Naxos or Paros.

Best time to travel to Mykonos

The weather on the Cyclades island of Mykonos is typically Mediterranean. However, the island is also characterised by the Meltemi winds, which provide cooling in the dry, hot summer months - and perfect conditions for water sports, especially on the north coast.

Temperatures

The summer months of June, July and August are considered the best time to visit Mykonos, as temperatures are at their highest at up to 30°C. The thermometer rarely shows less than 30°C. The thermometer rarely reads less than 27°C, and in August maximum temperatures of 32°C are often measured. Bathing and beach holidaymakers will find everything they are looking for on the dream beaches - including the many parties at beach bars and clubs.

Hours of sunshine

Known as a sunny island, you can rely on up to 12 hours of sunshine a day in the summer months on Mykonos. In contrast, rainy days are almost non-existent from July to August.

Water temperatures

Anyone travelling to Mykonos for the picture-book beaches and looking forward to many hours in the Mediterranean should come to the Cyclades island in the summer months from June to August. During this time, the water is often over 25°C.

The best time to visit Mykonos is in June and July - with air temperatures of up to 29°C, water temperatures of more than 25°C and no rainy days. Many tourists are attracted to the island during this time, which is why flights are more expensive and hotel rooms, flats and holiday homes are quickly fully booked. The situation is different in the low season in spring and autumn. As there is much less going on than in the high season, accommodation can be found more quickly, more easily and at a significantly lower price. However, you should plan your holiday well in advance - to avoid suddenly finding yourself standing in front of closed doors.

Practical travel tips from A to Z

To make your holiday on Mykonos a dream holiday, we have summarised the most important travel tips - from information on prices to practical tips on booking a hire car or finding accommodation.

A for medical care and pharmacies

If you fall ill on holiday in Mykonos and have statutory health insurance, you can use all the approved facilities of the Greek healthcare system - known as EOPPY. Most medical facilities are located near Mykonos Town.

If it is not an emergency, there are pharmacies in Mykonos Town and Ano Mera - recognisable by the red or green crosses. In addition to medicines, the pharmacies also stock cosmetics, sun cream and toiletries. As there are only a few pharmacies on Mykonos, a well-stocked first-aid kit is important. It should contain long-term medication, sun cream, remedies for diarrhoea, nausea, sunburn or travel sickness, (blister) plasters, painkillers and remedies for insect and tick bites.

Important: Treatment in private doctors' surgeries or clinics is often only possible if you pay in advance - whereas you can be treated free of charge in health centres if you show your European health insurance card. If costs are incurred, these are often higher than in Germany, but can be reimbursed by the health insurance company. It is best to find out about this in advance.

B for cash

It is advisable to always carry cash when travelling on Mykonos. Credit cards are accepted by a few hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. Cash is particularly welcome in taxis, on ferries or in small restaurants, shops and hotels - even in the tourist resorts. There are cash machines all over the island, labelled with the international symbol "ATM". Withdrawals by EC card usually incur a fee of at least 5 euros. However, there are also restaurants, bars and beach clubs here where you can pay by debit and credit card or contactless with your mobile phone - but you shouldn't rely on this!

C for camping

Mykonos is known as a luxury island with glamorous hotels and apartments - perhaps that's why there are only two campsites on the island. The two campsites - Mykonos Camping on Paranga Beach and Camping Paradise Beach Resort on Paradise Beach - are open between mid-April and the end of October. Although the campsites are equipped with everything you need, the accommodation is cheap even in the high season and the location to the island's dream beaches is ideal, the campsites are not necessarily suitable for real camping fans.

E for shopping

Mykonos is an island of contrasts - also when it comes to shopping. On the one hand, there are shops selling designer brands such as Gucci and Louis Vitton in Mykonos Town, while on the other hand you will also find the typical large weekly markets, supermarket chains and corner shops. If you want to eat and shop, you should generally expect higher prices. However, you can buy food at normal prices at markets and supermarkets.

When shopping, please note the opening hours on Mykonos, which are adapted to the high and low seasons and the temperatures. In general, most shops are open daily from 10am to midnight. In less touristy places, however, many adhere to the siesta - and often close their shops from 1pm to 5pm. On public holidays, and in some places on important festive days, many shops remain closed.

F for ferry tickets

If you are planning a trip to one of the neighbouring islands, the quickest and cheapest way to get there is by ferry. Ticket prices vary depending on the route and shipping company, but tend to fluctuate less from low to high season. As a general rule, the faster the ship, the more expensive the prices, as trips on speedboats or catamarans are often between 20 and 30 per cent more expensive. Tickets are not sold on board, but in the travel agencies of the shipping companies at the harbours. Discounts can also be obtained here, for example for children up to the age of 14, who only pay half price.

G for hospitality

Filoxenia is the Greek word for hospitality, which is also part of everyday life on Mykonos. While it may be lost in the many overcrowded tourist regions on the Cyclades island, you will receive an even friendlier and warmer welcome in more remote regions. In many places in Greece, it is common for customers to be offered coffee or refreshments in shops. As a guest in family-run guesthouses, it is not uncommon to be invited to eat with family and friends - and it is considered rude to turn down this invitation. Instead, you should look forward to hours of socialising (Greek: parea) with good food and good wine.

H for dogs

Everywhere in Greece, including Mykonos, you can see street dogs. These stray dogs are often friendly but can carry diseases that are life-threatening for other animals. This is one of the reasons why they are often not tolerated by the locals and are driven away or even poisoned. If you are on holiday in Mykonos with your own dog, you should always be aware of the danger of poisoned bait. You should also always keep your dog on a lead and have it wear a muzzle - also because the locals don't like it any other way.

I like island hopping

By ferry, chartered yacht or plane: there are many ways to explore the neighbouring islands from Mykonos. The nearest islands are Naxos, Paros, Tinos and Ikaria. Some of the most popular routes by ferry are:

- ◦ Mykonos - Paros in 1.5 hours
- ◦ Mykonos - Naxos in approx. 1 hour
- ◦ Mykons - Tinos in approx. 30 minutes
- ◦ Mykons - Ikaria (Evdilos) in 2 hours
- ◦ Mykonos - Santorini in 4.5 hours

The best and most popular way of travelling for island hopping is by ferry, as many of the small islands do not have airports - meaning they cannot be reached by sea. In the high season, catamarans also operate, which are faster but also up to 20 to 30 per cent more expensive than ferries.

sunbonoo tip: If you really want to hop from island to island and explore Paros, Tinos or Naxos, you should hire a car on each island. Many car hire companies often contractually prohibit you from taking your car on the ferry to another island.

J for jeep tour

A wonderful way to explore Mykonos is on an island tour in a jeep. The jeep drivers take up to 6 people to the most beautiful places on the island - for example to historic villages such as Ano Mera, to the monastery of Panagia Tourliani and to secluded bays. On the jeep tours, you not only learn a lot about the island, have time to eat and swim, but also experience a real adventure while driving over bumpy country roads and byways.

K for crime

Mykonos is generally a safe place. Unfortunately, however, it is not uncommon for holiday homes and hotel rooms to be broken into and stolen. The perpetrators are after expensive jewellery, watches or cash. It is therefore advisable to make sure that accommodation and hire cars are always locked. Anything you don't always have with you should be kept in the hotel safe. Also look after your valuables in public places that are crowded with tourists!

L for luxury holiday

If there's one place that's made for a luxury holiday, it's Mykonos - and especially Mykonos Town. 5-star hotels with wellness areas, exquisite cocktails in trendy beach bars, dancing in VIP clubs, day trips on luxury yachts - all this is possible on the jet-set island of Mykonos. Even those who have to watch their holiday budget should treat themselves to a day of luxury, for example on a sun lounger on one of the picture-book beaches with a cocktail from one of the beach bars - for a uniquely glamorous Mykonos experience!

M for Book a hire car

You will need a hire car on Mykonos - especially if you want to visit the beaches outside the town. Some tips for booking a hire car on Mykonos:

- ◦ Hire: The prices for hire cars vary greatly - and are sometimes expensive, especially in high season. You may be able to book a hire car before you arrive, but you should be aware that there are often costs for additional insurance.
- ◦ Insurance: Fully comprehensive insurance is recommended in order to be covered in the event of accidents, damage or theft.
- ◦ Pick-up and drop-off: When picking up the car, it is advisable to take photos of any damage. Also make a note of the time of handover so that no additional costs are incurred when you return the car.
- ◦ Fair refuelling policy: Some providers offer a "full to empty" service, where you can return a rental car with a full tank of fuel. However, this is a disadvantage for short rental periods, as you pay for the full tank, regardless of how few kilometres you have driven.
- Refuelling: There are petrol stations on all exit roads - towards and in Ano Mera, towards Ornos and towards the New Harbour. When refuelling, you have to wait for the attendant, self-fuelling is not permitted on Mykonos.

O for public transport

Buses

Mykonos is not a particularly large island - almost every destination is only a short journey away. Accordingly, there is no need for a huge bus network: there is a bus station in the old town of Mykonos Town that runs to the most popular beaches once an hour. The journey costs around 1.90 euros.

Taxis

There are no more than 30 taxis on Mykonos - which is particularly noticeable when you arrive at the airport and want to get to your hotel. If you don't want to stand in long queues, it's best to book a transfer from the airport to the hotel in advance. Many hotels offer transfers with a private driver. This is also the cheapest option, as the price of the journey is already fixed - and you don't have to expect any nasty surprises. If you want to travel by taxi, you can book this via the central telephone numbers: +30 22890 22400 or +30 22890 23700.

Transfer

If you are planning an excursion to one of Mykonos' sights, you can take advantage of the transfer service that is often offered. You will be picked up and dropped off near your accommodation or at an agreed location.

P for prices

Luxurious boutique hotels with sea views, exquisite cocktails at the beach bar and VIP parties on Super Paradise Beach: Mykonos is one of the islands where you can easily spend several hundred euros a day. Generally speaking, the trendier the area, the more expensive the prices for hotel rooms, sunbeds or entrance fees. If you want to save some money, you can look for accommodation or restaurants in the small towns that are away from the tourist hotspots.

S for scooter

ATVs and scooters are an alternative to hire cars for getting around Mykonos. Quad bikes, scooters and scooters are a great way to get from A to B on the island's roads. Many people book them for a day, with prices ranging from 20 to 50 euros. However, it is also possible to book ATVs or scooters for a longer period - and negotiate a corresponding price. Either way, they are perfect for exploring Mykonos on your own!

T for diving

The Cyclades islands are a paradise for water sports - including diving and snorkelling. There are many diving schools and centres on the beaches of Mykonos that offer classic diving courses as well as courses on topics such as marine ecology and underwater archaeology. Whether you are an experienced diver or a novice, the island's dream beaches and bays are perfect for exploring underwater.

U for find accommodation

Mykonos is one of the most popular holiday islands in the Aegean, so you are spoilt for choice when looking for accommodation. Although the island is small, there are more than 1000 options for accommodation in hotels, holiday villas or flats - and from luxury to low budget, there is something for every price range.

However, the search for accommodation is not only made more difficult by the choice: in the high season from June to August, last-minute holidaymakers have almost no chance of finding a room on the island. Added to this are the high room prices, which are far above the typical prices for the Cyclades. With plenty of advance notice, but also in the low season (March/April, September-November) it is easier - now there is also the chance to get a cheaper room in one of the stylish hotels directly on the most beautiful beaches of Mykonos.

V for VIP

Maria Callas, Jackie O, Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Pierre Cardin: Mykonos began to become one of the most popular holiday destinations for actors, artists and other international celebrities in the 1950s at the latest. The island is still popular today and the list of VIPs who spend their holidays on the dream beaches, in the luxury hotels or in expensive clubs and bars is growing. If you go on holiday to Mykonos - and have a little more money in your holiday budget - you could well bump into Harrison Ford, Jean-Paul Gaultier or Monica Bellucci, whose favourite holiday destinations include the Cyclades island.

W for important telephone numbers

Police: 100 Ambulance: 166 Fire brigade: 199 Breakdown service: 104 Coastguard: 108

X for X-treme Sport

Looking for adventure and an adrenaline rush? Mykonos has so much to offer - from wakeboarding and kitesurfing on the north coast to parasailing and jet skiing on Super Paradise Beach and a helicopter flight over the island. When it comes to water sports in particular, there are countless opportunities on the beaches of Mykonos - thanks to the wonderful temperatures on land and in the water on the one hand and the Meltemi winds on the other. Discover our offers for excursions on Mykonos and turn your holiday into an adventure holiday!

Y for yacht tours

As an island of luxury, glamour and jet-setting, you will see glamorous yachts at every harbour on Mykonos. But if you haven't travelled here yourself, you don't have to miss out on a tour along the coast of Mykonos. There are plenty of opportunities to hire yachts, sailing boats or motorboats. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ways to discover the island and its sights - with a private skipper, swimming stops, a little away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

More ideas for boat trips on Mykonos.

Z for time

The Greeks have a different sense of time - you will quickly notice this on your holiday in Mykonos. Not only is everything a little slower, but the opening hours are also different to those in Germany, for example. The xekoúrassi, the lunch break known as a siesta in other countries, is also common on Mykonos. Many shops remain closed from 12 noon to 5 or 6 p.m. Afternoon opening hours are only common in busy tourist resorts. The streets of Mykonos only come alive again in the evening hours - until the early hours of the morning, when the notorious parties take place on the beaches.

Insider tips: Mykonos off the beaten track

Among the Greek islands - if not among the islands in the Mediterranean - Mykonos is undoubtedly one of the most popular holiday destinations. Especially in the summer months, thousands of cruise tourists flock to the Cycladic island, which is why there are only a few places untouched by tourists. However, Mykonos thrives on this lively, exuberant atmosphere and has therefore been known worldwide as a party island for decades. However, if you are looking for the original, quieter and cosier Mykonos, you can find it in the early hours of the morning, in the low season or in even less well-known places. sunbonoo reveals insider tips for Mykonos:

Get up early

If you haven't turned night into day in one of the island's trendy beach clubs, you should get up early and explore Mykonos in the morning hours. In the old town of Chora, on the paradise beaches or in Ano Mera - places that are otherwise overrun by tourists - there is a pleasant silence now, the calm before the storm, so to speak. Enjoy the sunrise over the Aegean in peace, use the time to stroll along the harbour promenade or through the winding alleyways of Mykonos Town and discover the original, quiet side of the dream island.

Hire a car, quad bike or scooter

Mykonos is a small island where you can reach many places such as Ornos, Paradise Beach or Ano Mera on foot from the Chora. As the island is so small, there is no huge public bus network - instead, there is only one bus that runs from the old town of Chora to the most popular tourist spots. Long story short: the best way to get around the island is in a hire car - alternatively, there are also quads, ATVs and scooters to hire. This has many advantages: you are more mobile and flexible, can move around the island independently of bus timetables and can also reach more remote areas away from the tourist hotspots.

Visit the north of Mykonos

On Mykonos, there is a lot going on in the Chora, in Ornos, Elia and Ano Mera or on many of the island's picture-book beaches - places that are located in the south, south-west and east of the island. In contrast, the north is quieter, cosier and more traditional. If you are looking for this seclusion, you should definitely take a trip to the north of the island, preferably in a hire car. There are some secluded beaches here - far away from the typical tourist hustle and bustle on the paradise beaches. These include Agois Sostis Beach, which is characterised by empty bays with crystal-clear water. Ftelia Beach is also worth a visit, ideally after you have visited the Neolithic settlement of Ftelia.