Mykonos beckons travelers from around the world, with pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a nightlife to rival any in Europe. It’s no wonder why this island is one of the most popular destinations in all of Greece. Whether settling in for several days or just passing through while island hopping, keep reading to discover 8 Awesome Activities when visiting marvelous Mykonos and start planning your most epic Cycladic adventure today!
8. Rent ATVs
Driving ATVs proved to be one of the most memorable activities from our recent trip to Mykonos. Some of the roads are quite rugged making ATVs a perfect fit. They made simple tasks such as driving down to the beach or getting groceries much more enjoyable as well. Furthermore, it is a very popular means of transportation on the island and we found the locals and other guests to be very respectful of us on the roads. You can feel free to drive on backroads and highways alike. However, it is recommended to pull to the side of the road from time to time to let faster vehicles pass. Speed is really the only downside we had with the ATVs. You will have to plan on travel taking slightly longer than Google Maps suggests, for although speedy, they will not be able to go as quickly as a car. This was truly a very small inconvenience though and I would still highly recommend ATVs over other vehicle rentals.
There are numerous ATV rental establishments available. We used FIRST Car and Bike rental near our Airbnb at Platis Gialos and had no issues. The island is small and most of your time will be spent on the more populated western side regardless. Last note on transportation, would be a recommendation to get an international drivers license. They are easy to obtain for $20 at your local AAA branch and could save you a lot of hassle. At the time of this posting, an international driver’s license is required for US citizens driving in Greece.
7. Visit Mykonos Brewing Company
Although Greece is by no means known for its craft brewery scene, Mykonos Brewing Company proved to be one of our favorite stops on the island. Located just outside of Mykonos Town, Mykonos Brewing Company is easily accessible for those looking to get a first drink after landing on the island, by plane or boat. As the first and only craft brewery on the island, this is a must do for craft beers lovers coming here on holiday. The merchandise section was robust enough that we left with several shirts and other gifts for friends and family back home as well.
Tours with tastings are available for 20€. We simply did a tasting which was interesting and pleasantly different than those we were more familiar with in the US. We asked for three tastings and rather than picking our beverages, the friendly bar tender hand picked and delivered what she most recommended. She would discuss the production and inspiration for each beer and further talked about the brewery scene in Greece in general. We learned about the origin of Mykonos Brewing Company and overall had a great time!
6. Go Snorkeling
Bays of all shapes and sizes line the Mykonian coast, making snorkeling a popular and accessible option for all those visiting the island. Low tides, rugged reefs, and crystal clear waters combine to make snorkeling Mykonos a top attraction. Furthermore, the higher concentration of salt in the Mediterranean compared to the oceans makes floating in the waters while you explore far easier. Swimming and floating for literally hours at a time was one of my favorite things about the island. Two of the most popular spots include Paraga and Psarou Beaches. For a more remote location, Lia Beach on the eastern side of the island is considered a top spot for both scuba and snorkeling as well. Most beaches will have snorkeling gear available for sale, or feel free to bring your own.
5. Take a Day Trip to Delos
Mykonos serves as both a primary destination as well as just one stop for those touring the numerous Greek Isles. When first traveling to Greece we decided on visiting Mykonos and Athens. Fellow contributor Ethan had just finished his honeymoon in Santorini and many of the surrounding Greek Isles with his wife Emily (READ THIS POST HERE). While on Mykonos, the rest of us did not have the time to tour other major islands, but instead opted for a day trip to the sacred island of Delos. It was one of our favorite activities.
Many different tour options are available. Our tour left from the New Port of Mykonos and included lunch and drinks aboard. Before arriving at Delos, the boat took us to a remote sandbar for swimming and snorkeling. The island of Delos itself was interesting from an historic perspective. It was once one of the most sacred places in the Greek world. So sacred that spilling even a drop of blood on the island was punishable by death. It is also said to be the birthplace of the deities Apollo and Artemis (God of the sun and Goddess of the moon, respectively).
The main attractions on Delos for us were the Terrace of Lions, the Delos Archaeological Museum and hiking to the top of Mount Kynthos. The hike is not long but is quite steep and with no shade, you are truly at the mercy of the Sun God. Bring sunscreen and water! The panoramic views at the top of the mountain were excellent, touring the other archeological sites was interesting, but prepare to be hot and exhausted by the time you are done.
4. Windmills at Sunset
No image is more emblematic of Mykonos than the iconic white washed windmills overlooking Mykonos Town. Capitalizing on the great winds sweeping across Mykonos from the north, these windmills once acted as an economic boon to the local population: helping to grind agricultural products that were being exported from the island. Now more of a cultural icon and tourist attraction, visiting the windmills is a must for all those touring the island.
The windmills are walkable from the main Mykonos Town and can easily be coupled with touring the adjacent Little Venice. Although any visit will be memorable, visiting the windmills at sunset is truly spectacular. The site is free and very popular, so particularly at sunset, expect some crowds.
3. Wander Little Venice
The most popular section of Mykonos Town is Little Venice. Cobblestone streets flanked by washed buildings with colorful accents characterize this picturesque neighborhood. Charming homes line the Myconian coastline, while seaside bars and restaurants provide iconic views of the Aegean Sea and windmills on the distant hill.
The influence of Venice on the island dates back to the 15th century, when Mykonos stood as a key location on Venetian trade routes. The investment and influence of Venice can still be seen in the nearby windmills as well as the general architecture throughout Little Venice.
Many of the quintessential Myconian gift shops, luxury storefronts, and restaurants are found wandering through the streets of Little Venice. Although many reputable bars and restaurants are available, I would highly recommend making reservations for a sunset meal along the water. The views are spectacular. As night falls, Little Venice comes alive with countless bars and nightclubs, many continuing their festivities well into the early morning.
2. Party
Duh. It is said that Mykonos is the Greek answer to Ibiza, and we can say first hand that Greece did its work well. Attracting world renowned DJs to some of the most electric beachside clubs anywhere around is the hallmark of a trip to Mykonos. There are many clubs to choose from, and you really can’t go wrong. Cavo Paradiso is considered the crown jewel of clubs on the island. Tickets are more expensive but if you like the DJ playing that night you likely won’t find a better club experience around. Look ahead and get your tickets early if planning on making Cavo Paradiso part of your trip.
The clubs are mainly located on the southern end of the island, near Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach, or in Mykonos Town itself. We were staying relatively close to Paradise Beach and decided to head to Tropicana Beach Bar for dinner and drinks. We enjoyed no cover and stayed for hours having a great time. Do note that, the Mykonos party scene is certainly late night. Like next morning late night. Many clubs are said to not be in full swing until 1-2AM with parties lasting well past sunrise.
1. Explore different beaches
Other than the world renowned party scene, Mykonos is likely best known for its spectacular beaches. 23 separate beaches span the island with the most popular concentrated on the southern end. The main beach region spans from Psarou Beach to Super Paradise Beach. Our favorite and one we spent most time at was Platis Gialos. We loved our meal on the beach at Yialo Yialo in particular. Although Paradise Beach is often considered the most lively party beach, most of the beaches have clubs, shops, and restaurants of their own as well. A foot trail connects Platis Gialos to Super Paradise Beach, passing several of the other popular beaches on the way. We used our ATVs when beach hopping but there are also numerous buses and shuttles from Mykonos Town to these popular southern beaches during the summer months. There is also a water taxi service connecting the beaches of Ornos to Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agria, and Elia as well.
Note that Mykonos is considered a luxury destination. This being said, even enjoying the beaches can be pricey. Although there were no charges for accessing any beach, the lounge chairs and umbrella stations can cost more than 100€. You can obviously bring your own towel and try to find some coverage behind a bush or tree, but note that the lounge chairs take up most of the area and these free shady spots are few and far between. When planning to spend your time at the beach, I would look at the nearby restaurants and call ahead. Some restaurants may offer free or discounted lounge chairs if you order food.
Mykonos is far from just a spring break and party destination. There is a beauty and peace to the island that is also waiting to be explored. When your travels next take you to Mykonos, sure, turn up, but make sure to enjoy the many other marvels that this island and people offer!
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