A Guide of Mykonos Island

A cosmopolitan gem among the Greek Islands, Mykonos combines style and substance to great effect. From its traditional cubist houses to the bustling cafe scene to its gorgeous beaches, there’s something here to suit all tastes.

Choosing to visit Mykonos on one of our cruise itineraries really gives you the chance to get up close and personal with the island’s Greek charms and nuances. Despite its reputation as one of the best places to visit in the Cyclades, the island has still managed to retain its traditional feel. Mykonos offers such a conrast of experiences that while you could quite easily bump into a famous celebrity holidaying in Little Venice, you can also quite easily get away from the crowds for some peace and quiet.

Soak up Mykonos Town

If you are planning on spending any time on this island, you must take a morning strolling through the tiny streets of Mykonos Town. It’s not so much the town’s stunning beauty that appeals, but the allure of its crowded streets, whitewashed walls and trendy little cafes. The maze of streets work their way back up from the harbour, past lovely little churches and postcard-perfect homes.

As well as the lovely setting, the town boasts a fantastic array of high-end shops and is perfect for a quick shopping spree when you dock on the island.

Panagia Paraportiani

By far the most impressive church on the island, this gorgeous whitewashed structure is a fantastic example of Byzantine architecture. The religious monument dates back to 1425 and contains four chapels within its pristine walls. It is open for the majority of the day and closes as the sun goes down. It’s well worth staying at the church and watching the sunset as this is one of the most impressive vantage points on the island.

Located in the old Kastro district, it’s possible to climb up to the church’s upper-level chapel via an exterior staircase.

Mykonos windmills

Another beautiful feature of Mykonos Town is the charming windmills you’ll find in the western part of the area. These iconic structures were once used to make wheat and bread and were hugely important to the island’s inhabitants. Today, these charming buildings boast some of the finest views in Mykonos, and is another great spot to watch the sun go down on the island.

Explore the island’s past

There are two fantastic museums on the island, and it’s well worth visiting one or both on a stop over at Mykonos.

The first, Mykonos Folklore Museum, is located within the walls of a stunning, 18th-century sea captain’s house – which is worth a look in itself – and allows you to explore the rich history of Mykonos’ Greek heritage. Expect a large collection of ornate furnishings, ancient artifacts and musical instruments.

After you’ve got a flavour for the island’s past, make a visit to the Aegean Maritime Museum, which reveals the importance of Mykonos’ nautical history. The highlight of the museum is a huge Fresnel lighthouse lantern and intricate models of some of the island’s local boats.

Little Venice

Overlooked by the stunning windmills, this little area has become synonymous with Mykonos’ trendy cosmopolitan culture as well as its picturesque architecture and buildings. This part of the island exudes romance, from its wonderful position next to the shoreline to its many cool cocktail bars and cafes.

LGBT+ scene

The island is well-known for its LGBT+ scene both for its clubs, bars, beaches and the general acceptance of the culture. The locals of Mykonos have largely embraced gay tourism and the positive effects it has had on the island which has led it becoming one of the ost popular places for LGBT+ people to holiday.

Hitting the beach

Mykonos is renowned for its incredibly beautiful beaches, with their pure, white sands and crystal clear waters. The majority of the best places to enjoy the beach are located on the southern part of the island and cater to many different types of personality and demographic.

Paradise and Super Paradise are known to be the livelier, more party-focussed beaches, whereas the likes of Lia and Paraga are much quieter and calmer. All the beaches in this part of the island are well maintained and have all the facilities you want for a day at the beach.

Our Mykonos cruises

We have an extensive array of itineraries that take in the beauty of Mykonos: Classical Greece, and Jewels of the Cyclades. Whichever you choose, you are sure to have an intimate experience of the Greek Islands that caters to your specific needs and travel plans.