Getting Around Mykonos: Transportation Options
Short distances and quick journey times make getting around the compact Aegean island of Mykonos easy.
Moreover, affordable options are plenty: a useful bus network operates during the tourist season with frequent service and low fares. Small boats connect many of the most popular beaches on the south coast, enhancing your travel experience.
For maximum flexibility, hiring a motorbike or car is advisable; however, parking poses challenges in July and August, especially at the popular beaches where parking spots are few and fees can be high. Although taxis are not plentiful, several other options allow you to navigate around Mykonos without the hassle or expense of renting a car.
Bus Services
A comprehensive bus network covers Mykonos. Operated by the national cooperative KTEL, services run frequently throughout the day. You can access most important locations on the island, including the airport, for about €2 ($2.30; fares vary slightly depending on travel distance). Buses depart from two stations in the main town of Hora: Fabrika, located just south of the old town, and Old Port, which is 500 meters north of the center. Travel times are short; for instance, the trip from New Port (where large ferries dock) or the airport to Hora takes under 20 minutes.
However, despite journeys being brief, the buses resemble long-distance coaches, complete with just one narrow entry door. This situation only compounds the crush of riders in summer when demand often exceeds the supply of seats, resulting in possible waits for a free space.
Routes serving the party beaches and their nocturnal clubs may operate until 2 am during the summer season. Note that service to the northern and eastern coasts is limited or nonexistent.
Car Rentals
Renting a car on Mykonos is straightforward, whether through a well-known company or one of several local vendors. Moreover, it is wise to arrange rentals well in advance during the peak summer months to secure availability. For a more spontaneous choice, it may be easiest to arrange a car through your accommodation.
Having a car provides the freedom to explore all of Mykonos; however, there are drawbacks, particularly in summer. The short drives along the island’s limited road network can be stressful due to narrow lanes, cliffside plunges, and peak-season traffic. Parking can also be challenging in Hora and at beaches; anticipate hefty fines if you choose to park in unapproved spots. Additionally, some remote beaches may only be accessible via dirt tracks, which are not recommended for standard vehicles.
A good strategy may involve renting a car for just one day, allowing you to explore the compact island while avoiding the associated hassles for the remainder of your trip.
Motorbike or Scooter Rentals
Exploring Mykonos on two wheels is an excellent alternative to driving a car, as the narrow roads present fewer challenges, and parking is considerably easier. Numerous businesses offer motorbike or scooter rentals; however, non-EU residents should note a crucial caveat: a motorcycle or motorbike license valid in your home country is required.
Bicycle Rentals
Although twisting, hilly roads and narrow lanes with many blind curves can make biking challenging on Mykonos, this doesn’t deter some visitors. You will find several places to rent bikes. If you prefer to traverse safe and interesting backroads, consider joining a bike tour. For example, Yummy Pedals offers various routes catering to different fitness levels and interests.
Taxi Services
Due to the influx of holidaymakers, taxis can be expensive on Mykonos. Taxi stands are available at the airport, in Hora, and at the ferry ports. Generally, short trips may cost around €15-25 ($18-29), and during high season, taxis are in short supply, leading to long waits. For a more predictable experience, you can try scheduling a taxi in advance for an additional fee. Moreover, many accommodations offer pickups at the ferry ports or airport for about €10 ($12) if arranged ahead of time.
It is important to note that Uber and other ride-sharing apps are unavailable on the island.
Boat Services
Small boats (caïques) operate a water taxi service in summer, linking the most popular beaches on the south coast. Service runs hourly, heading east from Ornos to Elia from around 10 am until 4 pm. Return service going west operates from noon until 5:30 pm. Beach stops include Platys Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, and Agrari. Fares typically cost €10 ($12) for one hop or €20 ($24) for an all-day pass.
In town, the Mykonos Sea Bus provides an efficient and fast service connecting New Port (where large ferries dock) with Hora’s Old Port and the old town. Summer service operates every 30 minutes from 7:30 am until 11:30 pm, costing only €2 ($2.30).
Walking around Mykonos
Walking is a practical way to navigate Mykonos, especially for reaching beaches and holiday rentals close to Hora, such as Tourlos and Megali Ammos. Additionally, it’s possible to walk between the south coast beaches from Ornos in the west to Super Paradise; the beach walk between Platys Gialos Beach and Paradise Beach is considered a highlight. However, a lack of long-distance trails and the narrow, busy roads discourage counting solely on foot for travel on the island.
Accessible Transportation in Mykonos
Accessible transportation options are limited on Mykonos. Unfortunately, neither public buses nor taxis are wheelchair accessible. Steep stone stairs are widespread, walkways are not accommodating for individuals with reduced mobility, and crowds often congest the lanes and alleys of Hora.
