Summary of Best Activities in Mykonos
Mentioning Mykonos conjures vibrant images—celebrities lounging on luxurious yachts, the stunning white Cycladic architecture, and idyllic beaches.
As one of the most sought-after islands in the Aegean, Mykonos boasts a lively, cosmopolitan ambiance and is recognized as a welcoming destination for the LGBTQ+ community.
Visitors should dedicate time to the stylish and creative Chora (Mykonos Town) to capture stunning photographs of the iconic windmills and the dazzling white residences. Even the crevices in the marble cobblestones are painted white.
Subsequently, explore the captivating ruins of Delos and traverse the island’s many corners in mere minutes while searching for the finest beaches and viewpoints.
Here, we will delve into the most noteworthy activities in Mykonos:
1. Mykonos Windmills
The first sight that comes into view upon approaching the harbor is a series of seven white windmills situated on a small cape.
These structures were likely erected by the Venetians as early as the 16th century, strategically positioned to harness the dominant northern winds.
They were constructed near the harbor to mill grain brought in by ships, facilitating transportation.
Today, the windmills symbolize the island itself and are easily accessed with a short walk southwest from the Alefkandra quarter.
A quaint gift shop is located nearby, where visitors can join other photographers capturing snapshots of the striking windmills against the blue sky and sea.
2. Matogianni Street
Matogianni Street, stretching from north to south through Mykonos Town, is the vibrant heart of the area.
During the day, wander leisurely while browsing souvenir shops, boutiques, jewelry stores, and a few international brands like Sephora and Lacoste.
When hunger beckons, consider indulging in a souvlaki or gyro, or opt for a meal at one of the numerous tavernas—often more budget-friendly further in the town.
As evening descends, a tantalizing variety of dining establishments can be found in idyllic settings adorned with climbing bougainvillea and bustling bars that remain lively until dawn.
3. Delos
Departing from the old harbor, you can set sail to one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites.
The island of Delos lies just a few kilometers off the southwest coast of Mykonos, its excavated areas designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you are well-versed in Greek mythology, you may recognize Delos as the birthplace of the twin deities Apollo and Artemis.
However, long before these figures arose in lore, the island was regarded as a revered holy sanctuary.
Numerous discoveries await exploration, such as the 7th-century BC Terrace of the Lions, the Doric Temple of the Delians, the Minoan Fountain, an array of market squares, and the Theatre Quarter, adorned with magnificent mosaics.
You may also admire exquisite Hellenistic mosaics displayed at the House of Dionysos, the House of Masks, House of the Trident, House of the Lake, and House of the Dolphins.
4. Delos Archaeological Museum
The French School of Athens constructed a museum to house the findings from 30 years of excavations on Delos, inaugurated in 1904. Work has persisted for over 145 years, necessitating expansions of the museum in 1931 and 1972 to accommodate the increasing collection.
The oldest pieces within the museum include ceramics dating back more than 3,500 years.
There are also numerous grave statues and stelae from the 7th to 1st century BC, along with clay figurines, mosaics, jewelry, and everyday objects from the Hellenistic Period.
Key highlights include a bronze mask of Dionysos from the 2nd century BC, an ivory plaque depicting a Mycenaean warrior dated to 1400 BC, and a remarkable sculpture representing Boreas abducting Oreithya from the late 5th century BC.
5. Alefkandra (Little Venice)
Along the western edge of the Old Harbour lies a charming network of pedestrian-only alleys.
These pathways are paved with dark marble stones, coated with the same bright white paint as the surrounding buildings.
Its proximity to the water grants Little Venice its nickname, where dining establishments open onto a narrow walkway just above the sea, with tables for couples lining the route.
The structures feature slightly eclectic wooden bay window boxes and balconies finished in shades of blue and green.
Facing west, the sunsets are breathtakingly beautiful, making it advisable to secure a table in advance and gaze out as the windmills catch the last light of the day.
6. Old Harbour
After arriving via the SeaBus from the new port at Tourlos, you will be greeted by the marble quays of the Old Harbour.
On the eastern side, the historic Town Hall’s arcades date back to the 1700s, positioned in front of the quaint church of Agios Nikolaos topped with a blue dome.
A collection of bars and restaurants line the harbour’s curve, while the side streets reveal boutiques, design shops, and tasteful souvenir stores nestled among charming churches like Agia Eleni and Agios Kirykos.
7. Church of Panagia Paraportiani
Located just north of Little Venice in the Kastro neighborhood is the intriguing Church of Panagia Paraportiani.
This historical monument, constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries, features four separate yet interconnected churches topped by a fifth structure.
The highest church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Panagia) and is easily recognized by its dome.
The oldest section is Agios Anargyros, commencing construction in 1425, while the remaining four churches were established in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Much like the Mykonos Windmills, it serves as a picturesque site that draws visitors eager for photographs, providing a stunning contrast between asymmetrical white walls and the azure sky.
8. Rarity Gallery
Recently, Mykonos has emerged as a notable art destination, largely credited to the Rarity Gallery.
Established in 1995, this three-room venue was the first to display artworks—painting, sculpture, photography, and installations—by artists of international prominence.
Visitors can expect to encounter works by established names, as well as surprise finds among the emerging talents the gallery nurtures.
Prominent artists featured in the last two decades include pop artist Julian Opie and hyper-realistic sculptor Carole Feuerman, alongside Hong Sung Chul, known for his three-dimensional string sculptures.
9. Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
The modest yet captivating archaeological museum of Mykonos contains artifacts retrieved from the island and its neighboring isles, dating from prehistory through to the conclusion of the Hellenistic Period around the 1st century BC. Among the extensive collection of ceramics is a pithos (jar) from the 7th century BC that depicts the capture of Troy.
Additional noteworthy items include ancient Cycladic patterned pottery from as far back as 2800 BC, well-preserved funerary steles from the island of Rineia located off Delos, and black vases originating from the Ionian Islands.
Another remarkable piece is a statue of Heracles holding a club, retrieved from Rineia and carved from fine Parian marble in the 2nd century BC.
10. Agios Sostis Beach
If you seek tranquility, consider venturing to the less-traveled northern beaches of Mykonos, enriched with natural parks.
Agios Sostis offers no beachfront bars, restaurants, or sun loungers—an advantage that contributes to its serene atmosphere. Visitors will find this beach markedly quieter than its southern counterparts, bordered by gently sloping hills sparsely dotted with scrub vegetation.
Head north to discover a small village that features a taverna and church, along with a smaller cove embraced by shallow, sparkling waters.
11. Elia Beach
Alternatively, one may wish to experience Mykonos at its most vibrant and cosmopolitan.
For this, Elia Beach on the southern coast is an excellent choice.
As the longest beach on the island, Elia is favored by LGBTQ+ visitors to Mykonos.
Surrounded by arid slopes, Elia features a picturesque bay with golden sand at its center and pebbles beneath the cliffs to the east.
Naturists are also drawn to Elia Beach. Although this location is among the island’s most popular, it never feels overcrowded, as there is ample room for everyone to enjoy.
Visitors may rent jet skis from the central jetty, or hike up the barren slopes past white Cycladic houses to admire the bay’s beauty from above.
12. Dio Horia
Leading Mykonos’ contemporary art movement is Dio Horia, a gallery dedicated to hosting exhibitions, providing artist residencies, and promoting emerging talents from overlooked regions within the art sphere.
Since its inception three years ago, Dio Horia has showcased works by renowned artists such as Tracey Emin, David Adamo, Erik Parker, and Nina Chanel Abney.
The gallery also maintains a publishing division and organizes engaging events and pop-up installations throughout Mykonos.
Notable solo exhibitions for 2018 feature acclaimed contemporary artists Trudy Benson, Peter McDonald, and Raul de Nieves.
13. Kalo Livadi Beach
Southeast of Mykonos, Kalo Livadi boasts an exceptional sandy beach set against a charming valley adorned with clusters of white houses.
A few hundred meters from the coastline, the beach features a gentle gradient, allowing children to frolic in the shallows and confident swimmers to venture far out without the fear of strong currents.
The shore is lined with organized sun loungers, neatly arranged six deep, separated by wooden walkways.
While these loungers are rented through the restaurants located behind them and might be considered costly, they offer exemplary service worth every penny.
Those preferring a more private experience can find a tucked-away area beneath the rocks on the western end of the beach to spread out their towels.
If you wish to explore by sea, there is a boat charter company with a jetty at the beach’s western edge for self-guided adventures.
14. Kalafatis Beach
Just two beaches over from Kalo Livadi, Kalafatis features another alluring sandy bay with an arc of golden sand and clear, shallow waters.
This beach is distinctively oriented to the east, benefiting from notable breezes just offshore.
As you relax on a sun lounger, you will witness windsurfing sails gliding across the horizon.
During summer, you may also spot stylish yachts anchored in the bay.
Kalafatis provides a watersports center offering motorized activities such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, and jet-skiing.
On the northern edge of the beach, a quay with waterfront restaurants also serves as a departure point for tour boats heading off for scenic cruises.
15. Armenistis Lighthouse
Situated six kilometers north of Chora is a functioning lighthouse that directs maritime traffic between Mykonos and Tinos.
This impressive structure, featuring an octagonal tower, was finalized in 1891 and emits a white signal every ten seconds.
The lighthouse was erected following a tragedy in which the Volta steamship sank off Mykonos’ northern coast in 1887, claiming 11 lives.
If you wish to view the historical Fresnel lens, it is housed at the Mykonos Maritime Museum.
While interior access is restricted, visiting the lighthouse is worthwhile for the splendid scenery it offers.
The experience is particularly enchanting just after sunset when you can admire the lights of Agios Sostis and Laouti across the strait.
