8 things to do in Mykonos
Famous for its pristine beaches and great nightlife Mykonos is among the most popular Greek islands. Mykonos is not only for the party goers; it’s an island that offers gourmet food, cultural activities, and romantic holidays. It’s a great destination for solo travelers, gay travelers, couples, and families with many things to do.
Wondering what to do in Mykonos? I have been there five times over the last 17 years so I got you covered. I have been to the island of the winds as it is called as a student, with my girlfriends and with my husband and every time we had a blast.
You might also like my 10-day Greece itinerary that includes Athens, Mykonos and Santorini.
#1 Discover the Windmills in Chora
The windmills are among the most recognized landmarks of the island and one of the most famous Mykonos attractions along with Little Venice. For many centuries the mills used to refine grain with the help of the high winds that blow on the island.
With the progress of technology, the use of the mills declined, and now the ones that survived are used as private homes or museums. The most famous ones are the Kato Myloi ( Lower Windmills) that stand on a hill facing the sea.
Only seven of them have been preserved. I highly recommend that you walk up the hill in Chora and visit the windmill of Boni that is now a museum. The view from up there is incredible, and it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset.
#2 Have a drink in little Venice
Little Venice is a neighbourhood with colourful houses built on the edge of the sea. It took its name due to its resemblance with Venice. Nowadays the houses have been turned into elegant bars and restaurants and are among the best places in town to watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail.
#3 Stroll around Mykonos town
Lose yourself in the winding alleys of Mykonos town with the white houses, blue doors and windows and colourful bougainvilleas is a must do in Mykonos. Head to the area of Matogiania with the chic shops and trendy bars. The place to be in the centre of the town.
A great way to explore Mykonos town and all the highlights is a Mykonos Walking Tour.
#4 Shop till you drop in Mykonos town
Mykonos has one of the best shopping scenes in Greece. In the alleyways of the town, you can find the most famous designer labels, jewellery shops, leather goods and art shops along with very attractive shops selling traditional products and souvenirs. If you have money, the possibilities are endless.
#5 Take a boat trip to the archaeological site of Delos
The island od Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important Archaeological Sites in Greece. According to Mythology, it was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The island is now uninhabited, but you can visit it by taking one of the many ships that depart daily from Mykonos old harbour (except Mondays that theArchaeological site is closed).
The return ticket to Delos cost 20 € for adults and 10 € for children (6-12 years old). Tickets to the Archaeological site of Delos cost: Full 12€, Reduced 6€. I highly recommend that you do a guided tour in Delos. A visit to the island of Delos is among the best things to do in Mykonos. Book your trip to Delos here.
#6 Walk around the old port
The picturesque old harbour of Mykonos is a great area to walk around especially at night. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area overlooking the sea. From there you can also catch the ferry to Delos island. The old port is also home to the famous Pelekan of Mykonos.
The last time I was there I spotted him in the backstreets of the town instead of the harbour. The Pelekan is a must see in Mykonos.
#7 Discover the churches in Mykonos
One of the main characteristics of Mykonos is the abundance of churches that can be found scattered around the island. Some say that the number of churches and chapels are almost 800 and about 60 of them can be spotted in Mykonos town (Chora).
Some of the most famous are Panagia Paraportiani and Agios Nikolaos in Chora and the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera. During my walk in Mykonos town, I spotted a couple of them. I believe I lost count.
#8 Do a Bicycle Tour
If you want to discover Mykonos off the beaten track and do something fun at the same time then you should do a bike tour with Yummy Pedals. We decided to do the Fokos Tour which is great for average riders like me. We met our guide Dimitra on a beautiful morning.
After collecting our bikes and going through some safety measures we embarked on our 10 km ride across the islands beautiful countryside. On our way we stopped at a traditional private church where Dimitra explained the religious traditions of Mykonos.
Our final destination was the beautiful Fokos beach where we enjoyed homemade muffins and lemonade. During the summer months you can enjoy a swim on the beach as well. More advanced riders can continue their way to the neighboring Myrsini beach. Yummy Pedals offers many bicycle tours around the island.