23x best things to do in Mykonos: a complete first-timers guide with all the must-dos and hidden gems
Mykonos: the island where ancient history flirts with designer sunglasses, and where you can spend your morning exploring whitewashed alleyways and windmills, your afternoon on a sun-drenched beach, and your evening trying to figure out how you just spent €28 on a cocktail.
The Cycladic island of Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek islands and attracts millions of visitors a year. Unlike some of its neighbours, such as Syros or Tinos, it is known to be a luxurious and rather expensive destination, where you can find high-end hotels and restaurants, fancy beach bars and designer stores.
Many people only spend one day in Mykonos (especially when arriving with a cruise ship), but we’ve recently explored this beautiful (and slightly chaotic) Cycladic gem a bit more, and let me tell you: it’s not all about partying with influencers.
Although you have to look past the high prices and partying tourists, there’s still magic in the maze-like streets, serenity on secret beaches, and (somewhat) affordable, delicious Greek food that will make you want to stay.
So buckle up, here are 23 unforgettable things to do in Mykonos! Read until the end if you also want to discover the best time to visit Mykonos, how to get to Mykonos (and around the island), what to pack for Mykonos, our favorite restaurants in Mykonos, and where to stay in Mykonos.
What to do in Mykonos Old Town (Chora)
Chora is the beating heart of Mykonos and the place where you’ll probably get lost at least five times, and love every minute of it. Located on the western side of the island, Mykonos Old Town (aka Chora) is a dazzling labyrinth of narrow whitewashed streets, bright bougainvillea, and blue shutters.
It’s where old fishermen mix with fashionistas, ancient chapels hide behind boutique shops, and the hum of the harbor meets the rhythm of clinking glasses in chic cocktail bars. Chora is the place where every Mykonos story begins, so come here first if you want to explore the best things to do in Mykonos.
1. Get lost in the maze of whitewashed streets
Honestly, your Google Maps will give up before you do. Chora is a dreamy tangle of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, colorful shutters, hidden chapels, and adorable shops. It’s both a real town (although it has lost many of its inhabitants over the years) and a tourist hotspot.
TIP: If you are staying in Mykonos Old Town, try to explore it early in the morning before the crowds of cruise ships and day trippers arrive. That way you also avoid the summer heat and you get to feel the true magic of this old Greek town.
2. Take all the photos in Little Venice
With its colorful red, blue, and green balconies hanging over the sea, Little Venice is straight-up romantic. Order a drink overlooking the Aegean (yes, it’s overpriced, but pretend you don’t notice) and enjoy the view, especially during sunset when the lighting is breathtaking.
3. Visit the windmills
They don’t grind wheat anymore, but these iconic windmills are a must-see when you are visiting Mykonos. You can’t do more than walk around and take some pictures, but it’s still worth the visit. Furthermore, the view over Mykonos Old Port from there is fabulous.
TIP: If you are visiting Mykonos with kids, there is also a small playground and little shop near the windmills.
4. Check out Paraportiani Church
This snow-white, blob-shaped church is probably one of our favorite things to see in Mykonos. It looks like it was designed by a daydreaming sculptor. It’s actually five chapels built on top of each other, somehow weird, peaceful, and photogenic all at once.
If you come here during sunset (like we did), you might be able to get one of the most stunning sights you’ll have during your entire trip.
5. Shop till you drop
Yes, there are many, many shops in Mykonos Old Town and around the island. Although a lot of them are very high end, Chora has boutiques for almost every budget.
You can find handmade jewelry, breezy linen outfits, and the perfect souvenir. One of our favorite souvenir shops was the lovely store Anapolo. Take your time to stroll around and check different shops, even if you don’t really want to buy anything (but you will, trust me).
6. Sip a freddo espresso
One of our top things to do is to order a Freddo, sit back, and observe how locals, confused tourists, and influencers try to navigate the alleyways.
Matogianni Street is the heartbeat and people-watching central of Mykonos Town. But also around Little Venice, you can find many trendy coffee bars. El Burro and Soulmates are two of our favorite coffee shops in Mykonos.
7. Climb to Boni’s Windmill for the best view (hidden gem!)
Tired of the crowds at the harbor windmills? Head uphill to Boni’s Windmill, built in the 16th century, and the only windmill in Mykonos you can visit inside. Make sure to check the opening hours though. When we were there, it was open in the morning (10:30 am-1:30 pm) and in the evening (5 pm-8 pm).
TIP: The views from here over Chora and the sea are worth the climb, especially during sunset! You can go even a bit higher, if you want.
Best beaches in Mykonos
If there’s one thing Mykonos does exceptionally well (besides sunsets and stylish chaos), it’s beaches. This island may be small, but it’s packed with sandy stretches for every type of traveler, whether you’re a sun worshipper, a beach bar hopper, or someone just looking for a quiet spot to read a book.
The south coast is where you’ll find the most famous, glamorous, and often crowded beaches, protected from the northern winds and lined with beach clubs and tanned people dancing on tables by 3 pm.
But venture a bit further, and you’ll discover wild, peaceful coves with barely a sunbed in sight. So grab your towel and check our list of the best beaches in Mykonos.
8. Party at Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach
It’s called Paradise for a reason, as both beaches have golden sand and crystal-blue waters. Come here if your idea of paradise includes beach clubs, music, and people dancing in the sand. If you are looking for the full beach party experience, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach are your places to go to.
TIP: Want to make sure you have a sunbed at Super Paradise Beach? You can reserve your sunbed at Thalas Beach Bar. Perfect if you want to avoid the stress of finding a spot at Super Paradise Beach.
9. Get fancy at Psarou Beach
Where celebrities suntan and the rosé flows like water. Expect beach beds that cost more than your hotel room and a parade of designer swimwear. Just pretend you’re on a Vogue shoot and go with it. Visit the famous beach bar Nammos if you want to go fancy (they even have a helicopter pad).
Psarou Beach is definitely one of the prettiest beaches and one of the best beaches for snorkeling.
10. Relax at Ornos Beach
Ornos Beach, only a couple of kilometers from the harbour, is family-friendly, with flat waters, lots of sunbeds, and tavernas. It is a great spot for windsurfing and waterskiing. Come here if you’re looking for something a little more chill (or you’re recovering from Super Paradise).
11. Spread your towel at Elia Beach
Another beautiful beach in the south of Mykonos, where you have the choice to either go to the beach bar or spread your own towel on the sand. The beach bar is nice, but it gets very expensive quickly if you pay for the sunbeds or a couple of drinks. We advise you to go a bit further, bring your own drinks, and enjoy this beach for a lot less.
12. Swim at Paraga Beach
A bit rougher, lively but not crazy, with beach clubs, nice restaurants, and calm water. Most of the beach is covered in sunbeds, but there is also a free zone.
TIP: In the late afternoon or evening, grab a (somewhat expensive) drink at Scorpios for serious boho-luxe vibes.
13. Discover Agios Sostis Beach (hidden gem!)
One of our favorite hidden gems in Mykonos! No music, no beach bars, no sunbeds, just sand, sea, and peace. It feels like what Mykonos probably looked like in the ‘70s. Bring water and snacks!
TIP: Right above the beach is Kiki’s Taverna with possibly the best grilled pork chop you’ll ever eat. Arrive early or embrace the wait (but you can swim and enjoy a drink while waiting).
14. Escape to Fokos Beach (another hidden gem)
Remote, wild, and wonderfully untouched. No umbrellas, no dance floor. Perfect if you’re craving a break from the crowds (and don’t mind a bumpy road to get there).
TIP: You can also ride horses here with Horseland Mykonos Kapari, beautiful at sunset.
Unique experiences and day trips in Mykonos
15. Take a day trip to Delos Island
Although it’s also possible from Syros or Tinos, Mykonos is the best place to take a trip to Delos Island, one of the most important archeological sites of Greece. Apollo and Artemis were supposedly born here. Explore ancient temples, mosaics, and statues.
You can either decide to book an organised tour to Delos, or take the ferry, which takes around 30 minutes to the island (you can buy tour tickets in the harbor). Wear good shoes, bring water, and mentally prepare to be wowed.
Read more: How to visit Delos Island in Greece
16. Enjoy the sunset
If you have more than just a day in Mykonos and you get to stay the night, make sure you experience one of its famous sunsets. Great spots are:
- Old Town (Chora): There is a spot to watch the sunset for everyone. Photographers, go to Paraportiani Church or the windmills. For a romantic sunset dinner, go to Little Venice (for example, to Nice n Easy). If you really want to go fancy, book a room at the famous Cavo Tagoo and enjoy one of the most epic sunset spots in Mykonos.
- One of the beaches: on the west side of the island, there are lovely spots to watch the sunset, such as Kapari Beach or Scorpios Beach Bar.
- 180º Sunset Bar: This bar is located on one of the highest points of Mykonos, close to Old Town. You will need a reservation, and you will pay a premium, but those views are worth it.
- Armenistis Lighthouse (hidden gem!): Located in the northwestern part of the island, you have a stunning view here over the Aegean and the sunset. Don’t forget a bottle of wine!
- Sunset cruise: If you want to enjoy the sunset from the water, book one of the fantastic sunset cruises that are offered in Mykonos.
17. Join a traditional cooking class
What is a trip to Greece without a proper Greek cooking class? In Mykonos, you can also take some fantastic cooking classes. So, roll up your sleeves and learn how to make dolmades, tzatziki, and spanakopita in a real Mykonian home. Bonus: you get to eat it all after. Double bonus: there’s usually wine involved.
18. Go wine tasting at a local vineyard
Yes, Mykonos makes wine too! There are two vineyards you can visit. The first one is Mykonian Land, where you can book a local food and wine tasting.
The second one is Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm. They also offer tastings with light snacks, but here you can also have a look at rural island life, as it is also an active organic farm. They even offer bicycle tours around the rural areas of Mykonos.
19. Find the Pelican
There’s a long-standing pelican mascot in Mykonos named Petros. The original one was found wounded by a fisherman in 1958. He brought him to the island, making it unintentionally the mascot of Mykonos.
Petros passed away, unfortunately, but a couple of other pelicans took his place, one of them also called Petros. They wander around the harbor and Little Venice and might pose for a photo if you ask nicely (or offer a sardine).
20. Go church spotting and explore Ano Mera
There are over 400 tiny churches on the island, some the size of garden sheds. Keep your eyes peeled; they’re tucked into courtyards, perched on cliffs, and hidden behind homes.
The Monastery of Tourliani at the little town of Ano Mera is beautiful and can be combined with the square, where you can have a great lunch. Take your time to explore Ano Mera a bit. It’s the only inland village in Mykonos and feels completely different than the Mykonos around the beaches.
TIP: The monastery has, unfortunately, been overrun by VIP tourists lately. We advise you to visit either in low season or in the early morning to avoid the sometimes disrespectful crowds.
21. Go for a hike around the island
While Mykonos is better known for beach lounging and boutique browsing than backcountry trekking, it also offers some surprisingly rewarding hikes, especially if you venture beyond the well-trodden tourist zones.
Here’s an overview of some of our favorite hikes:
- Mykonos Old Town to Armenistis Lighthouse (5,5 km or 3.5 miles one way): a beautiful hike you can start right from where you stay in Chora.
- Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm to Fokos Beach (7 km or 4 miles): if you want to go off-the-beaten-track and see the rural side of Mykonos.
- Ano Mera – Profitis Ilias Monastery: another rural, wilder adventure is the hike to the monastery, the highest point of the island, following a nice trail.
- Agios Ioannis Beach to Ornos Beach: nice coastal walk, offering beautiful scenery without too much sweat.
Don’t forget to bring good shoes, water, and sunscreen, and maybe a sense of direction (or download a map on Maps.me or Alltrails), because signposts are, let’s say, “optional” in Mykonos.
22. Taste the local beer in Mykonos’ Brewery
Yes, Mykonos doesn’t only have wine, but also a local brewery. Mykonos Brewing Company, located close to Chora, produces the Mikonu craft beer. You can visit the brewery and taste its delicious craft beer.
23. Do a day trip from Mykonos
If you have more time to spend on the island, you can also do a couple of amazing day trips leaving from Mykonos. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Delos Island: We already mentioned Delos earlier. This UNESCO heritage site is one of the most important archeological sites of Greece and a must-see in Mykonos if you are an archeology lover.
- Rhenia: If you need a break from Mykonos’ chaos, hop on a small boat (most Delos cruises add this detour) and go to Rhenia, an uninhabited sister island. No clubs, no crowds, just soft sand, impossibly clear turquoise coves, and a sprinkle of ancient ruins.
- Syros: This lovely island, close to Mykonos, is one of our favorite ones in the Cyclades. We advise you to stay longer, but even if you only have one day in Syros, you will understand why we love it so much. It has a completely different vibe from Mykonos, with its neoclassical mansions and year-round locals who live here. The ferry from Mykonos to Syros only takes around an hour.
- Tinos: Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Mykonos lies Tinos, its calmer, more soulful Cycladic sister. Known for its whitewashed villages, marble artistry, and a sense of serenity that Mykonos left behind some time in the ’90s. Tinos is perfect for a day of slow travel.
Our favorite restaurants in Mykonos
Mykonos may be famous for its parties, but the food scene is equally worth celebrating, preferably with a glass of local wine in hand. There’s plenty of choice in Old Town and by the beaches, but also a few hidden gems around the island.
Here are our favorites in Old Town:
- Pepper Souvlaki & More (Old Town): If you are looking for a very affordable souvlaki, but you can also go a bit fancier or have a cocktail.
- Cosmo Cafe (Old Town): One of the best breakfast and brunch cafes in Mykonos. We know the owners and can tell you everything is made and served with love!
- Captain’s (Old Town): Enjoy food to share with a great view over the water. Both the seafood and the grill are amazing, and the staff are very friendly.
- D’Angelo (Old Town): Our favorite Italian restaurant in Mykonos with a friendly vibe. Perfect if you don’t want Greek food for a change.
- To Maereio (Old Town): A proper Greek tavern in Old Town. Even though the prices are more expensive than the traditional tavernas in Greece, the food and ambiance are fantastic, and it’s one of the best spots in Mykonos.
- Nautilus (Old Town): If you want to go a bit fancier in a cozy setting, this is your place. They offer delicious Greek and international food. The incredibly friendly owner Eleni, will make you feel welcome!
- The Milky Way (Old Town): If you are looking for the best ice cream and Belgian waffles, look no further!
And here are some restaurants you can’t miss around the island:
- Kiki’s Tavern (Agios Sostis): A must if you want to escape the crowds and go for a real Greek experience. Just get there early. There are no reservations and no electricity, but plenty of grilled deliciousness.
- Rizes (Ano Mera): Located in the countryside of Mykonos, this farmstead (where you can also spend the night), offers authentic and organic dishes, mainly produced on the farm. A unique experience! They even have cooking classes.
- Nikolas Taverna (Paraga Beach): A classic taverna with great seafood, located directly by the beach and great for sunset dinners. Very friendly service and amazing dance and music entertainment of old Greek folklore.
- Yialo Yialo (Platis Gialos): A stunning little restaurant by the beach, where you can also stay and rent sun loungers and umbrellas daily. The friendly owner, Giovanni, will make your stay memorable. They serve delicious traditional Greek food.
- Scorpios (Paraga Beach): Although the food is delicious, it is also very pricy. But even if you are on a tighter budget, come here around sunset for a drink and a party.
Where to stay in Mykonos
Choosing where to stay in Mykonos really comes down to what kind of vibe you’re after (and how much you’re willing to spend). Wherever you stay, just know that nowhere on the island is more than 30 minutes away.
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, staying in Mykonos Town (Chora) is ideal. You can find charming hotels and boutique stays here, tucked into winding alleys just steps from shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
If you prefer beachside bliss, there are many options to stay around Ornos and Platis Gialos, which both offer easy access to the sea, sunbeds, and family-friendly vibes, while still being just a quick drive or bus ride from town.
Want all the glam without the party noise? Head to Agios Ioannis or Elia Beach for quieter, upscale resorts with breathtaking views. Budget travelers and backpackers often find good deals inland or near Paradise Beach, though things can get loud (consider earplugs your best friend).
Some of our favorite accommodations are:
- Rizes (Ano Mera): A fantastic, authentic farmstead in the countryside of Mykonos. If you don’t mind being remote (you need a car), you will love your visit! The food is also delicious and comes straight from the farm.
- Santa Marina (Elia Beach): A wonderful and rather affordable hotel close to Elia Beach with a fantastic pool and nice boho decoration.
- Mina Studios (Platis Gialos): These studios are located in the village, close to the beach, and offer nice and spotless rooms with a delicious breakfast.
- Nissaki Boutique Hotel (Platis Gialos): If you want to go luxurious with breathtaking views over Nammos Beach, this is your place.
- Kove Mykonos – An Myconian Collection Hotel (Ornos): Another luxurious hotel, with extremely friendly staff, a beautiful pool (with even your own private one by your room), and stunning views.
Best time to visit Mykonos
The best time to visit Mykonos really depends on what kind of traveler you are, but for most people, May to early October (high season) is the sweet spot. During winter in Mykonos, the old town (Chora) is practically deserted, and unless you rent a car to go to the villages around the island, we wouldn’t advise visiting Mykonos.
- If you want sunny weather, warm seas, and a lively atmosphere without being completely overrun by selfie sticks and yacht parties, late May, June, and September are ideal. The weather is gorgeous, the beaches are blissful, and you won’t need to elbow your way through Mykonos Town.
- July and August are peak season, buzzing, beautiful, but also blazing hot, packed, and pricey. Expect big parties, big crowds, and possibly big credit card bills. Also, try not to get knocked over by the Meltemi winds, which can be fierce in summer.
- If you prefer peace and quiet, April and October offer a more relaxed vibe, though some beach clubs and restaurants might be closed. But hey, you’ll have the windmills more to yourself (and maybe a few cats).
Read more: Best time to visit the Cyclades
How to get to Mykonos?
Getting to Mykonos is fairly easy. You can either fly into Mykonos International Airport (JMK), which has direct flights from Athens year-round and seasonal connections from major European cities like London, Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam.
Prefer the scenic route? Ferries from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina port) run daily and take anywhere from 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on whether you’re on a speedy catamaran or a slower, wave-loving ferry. You can also hop over from nearby islands like Syros, Tinos, Paros, Naxos, or even Santorini if you’re island-hopping.
Read more: Best day trips from Syros
TIP: Book your ferry tickets in advance in summer, late spring and early autumn as it can get crowded.
Getting around Mykonos
Getting around Mykonos is an adventure in itself. The island may be small, which makes it easy to get everywhere, but the roads are narrow, the signs are vague, and the scooters are everywhere. If you want to get around the island, there are different options:
- Renting an ATV, scooter, or small car is one of the best ways to explore the beaches and hidden spots at your own pace (just go easy on the corners ).
- If driving on winding cliffside roads sounds terrifying or you want the cheapest option, the local bus system is surprisingly decent in summer, connecting major beaches and Mykonos Town on a regular schedule (even after a party at night).
- Taxis exist, but they’re limited and expensive, and Uber doesn’t work like it does elsewhere. You’ll mostly get paired with private drivers. Try to organize an airport transfer (arrival and departure) through your accommodation or book a taxi online so you are sure everyone is honest.
- For short hops, water taxis are a fun way to beach-hop along the southern coast. And when in doubt? Just walk, as the island’s not that big, and you’re guaranteed to stumble across something beautiful (or at least a very photogenic cat).
What to pack for Mykonos
When it comes to dressing for Mykonos, it first of all depends on the season you are visiting. If you are coming in the warmer months, think lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, perfect for keeping cool under the blazing sun.
During the day, pack your swimwear, cover-ups, comfy sandals, and a hat that won’t blow off in the famous Meltemi wind (seriously, that breeze has no chill).
At night, things get a bit more glam, especially if you’re heading into Mykonos Town for dinner or drinks. Think flowy dresses, smart shirts, stylish flats or wedges (but skip the stilettos, cobblestones are not your friend). And don’t forget a light jacket or scarf, evenings can get surprisingly breezy, even in summer.
Read more: What to wear in Mykonos
TIP: Make sure you bring some cash, as many local places don’t accept cards.
Final thoughts on what to do in Mykonos
Our honest opinion on Mykonos? Yes, it’s loud. Yes, it’s glitzy. Yes, it is overpriced. But if you look a little further, you will see that Mykonos is more than just a party island. It’s also filled with quiet corners, delicious food, stunning views, and real Cycladic charm.
You can spend your morning on a quiet beach, your afternoon chasing ancient gods, and your evening dancing under the stars. Whether you’re a backpacker, a family, a honeymooner, a couple, or just someone who likes pretending to be fabulous for a week, Mykonos will probably steal your heart (but maybe your wallet, too).