Last updated on June 17th, 2024 at 11:49 pm
Considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Greek Islands, Mykonos is well-known for beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, summer party atmosphere and wild nightlife.
Indulge in delicious food, epic sunsets and some of the best parties you’ve ever been. It’s the ultimate destination for a whole lot of fun in the sun! This Mykonos travel guide is filled with travel tips to help you plan an amazing trip!
Mykonos appealed to A-list celebrities and those who embrace an alternative lifestyle since the Fifties and Sixties. Back then, those stars included Brigitte Bardot and Jackie Onassis; today you’re more likely to find Kim Kardashian and Lindsay Lohan. But despite being commonly held to be among the most expensive, and exclusive, Greek islands, it holds enduring appeal.
There are many reasons why this destination is so popular among the celebrities and for sure because it’s progressive, yes – you’ll find gay, and nudist, beaches, such as Super Paradise and Elia – and also profoundly beautiful. Stroll round the alluring main town, Chora, past sugar-cube-shaped buildings, their chalk-white walls accentuated by bright blue doors and shutters, and framed by colourful flowers. History and culture abound too, particularly on the nearby island of Delos, a sacred site held to be the birthplace of Apollo.
READ ALSO Mykonos Villas: Suites with Sea Views
WHEN TO GO
In summer or high season (June, July, August and September), the Greek island is packed with rich jet-setters and cruise-ship tourists alike. If you travel to Mykonos during this time, expect crowded beaches, and a non-stop party atmosphere. Those looking for a more relaxed vacation should visit Mykonos during its off-season. In winter, the glittering throngs are nowhere to be found, and the island becomes a relaxed, tranquil retreat.
HOW TO GET THERE
You can either get to Mykonos by air or by ferry. There are many airlines that travel from major European cities to Mykonos. Ferry is a very popular way to do islands hopping in Greece. There are some ways to save money on ferry fares, such as book well in advance or book night ferries (which you save money on accommodations as well).
Book your private jet 🙂
When you book your jet charter through ONEflight International, they will set you up with the choice of helicopter or luxurious aircraft to whisk your guests off to whatever location you choose.
The choice is yours when it comes to the perfect aircraft to use for your business or private guests. With just a few questions regarding the number of guests and the type of trip you are planning, we can help you select the right travel arrangements.
WHERE TO STAY
Mykonos is not a huge island however it features two different areas that have also many contrasts. Mykonos has many great restaurants, cafés, night clubs and shops that are located in the center a bit further from the beaches. Mykonos welcomes an array of all types of tourists that choose this island to enjoy the sun and many also the privacy of a villa. There are many Mykonos villas to choose from and each of them has a different style and offers different characteristics.
READ OUR FULL GUIDE HERE https://hauteretreats.com/where-to-stay-in-mykonos/
WHAT WE LOVE
A stunning Greek island in the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos has long been known for its dazzling nightlife. But put that aside and you’ll find idyllic beaches, romantic whitewashed houses overlooking glistening waters, and the touch of warm Greek hospitality found nowhere else.
WHERE TO TASTE GREAT FOOD
Spilia is another romantic taverna hidden in a secret cave practically in the sea, —my only requirements for date night. Reserve a table right next to the water for the idyllic view and watch lobsters caught right in front of you. Try the traditional “Mykonian” salad, which is basically just a Greek salad, but instead of onions there are croutons (hello, upgrade!) and the fresh octopus that you’ll see literally hanging out to dry on your way in.
If “boho chic” weren’t such an annoying phrase, we can describe the beautiful wicker lighting, driftwood loungers, and breezy open-air bars that greet you as you enter. Soak up the sun and the panoramic views from a private daybed, take a dip in the sea and reward yourself with literally anything from their extensive beach cocktail list.
Niko’s Tavern
This tavern opened back in 1976, and you will love the tables overflowing from the wide street outside the restaurant up onto Agia Moni, the small square above. And necessarily so, as it’s always absolutely packed, with couples, groups of friends, and families, all having the time of their lives as the long-standing waiting staff move balletically around them. Traditional, well-cooked Greek dishes are the order of the day; freshly caught fish is sold by weight, while daily specials such as stewed octopus with orzo pasta or grilled pork skewers make regular appearances.
Salparo
Salparo is located on a prime position on a curved pathway by the Old Port, with an irresistible view looking back over to the harbour front. Get there early enough, or sweet talk the waiting staff, and you could secure one of the tables whose legs are planted firmly in the pebbly sand, just below the restaurant’s grounded red and white boat, which serves as its sign. You should order the freshly grilled catch of the day, lemon-doused grilled sardines, or, one of their specialities, perfectly al onda seafood risotto.
READ MORE New Mykonos Villas perfect for Group Getaways
BEST SHOPPING
LALAoUNIS is world renowned for creating luxurious gold jewelery steeped in history. LALAoUNIS creations represent a synthesis of past and present.
Established in 1980, Cava Stamboulis is a family-run liquor store located on the main road from Mykonos Town to Ano Mera, in an area called Agios Taxiarhis.
Louis Vuitton has opened its first store in Mykonos town in 2012. In a sophisticated environment, with the characteristic architecture, offers to the brand fans amazing prêt-à-porter collections for both men and women. You will find chic leather products and the unique sunglasses collection of the fashion house.
Skoufa Gallery was founded in 1981, strategically located at the commercial center of Athens, in the historical district, “Kolonaki”. In 2014 Skoufa Gallery expanded its activities
THINGS NOT TO MISS
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.
Have a drink in little Venice
Little Venice is a neighborhood with colorful 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.
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