Summary
Mykonos offers arguably one of the most renowned vistas globally. The distinctive whitewashed structures of Mykonos have become a symbol of opulent travel, with numerous influencers, travel bloggers, and aficionados of luxury lifestyles having spent time mingling with the elite on this enchanting island.
Although it currently serves as a hotspot for affluent travelers, Mykonos, like much of Greece, remains accessible for budget-conscious visitors. Contrary to social media portrayals that may suggest exclusivity to the wealthy, there are budget-friendly options for experiencing Greece’s idyllic isle.
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime luxurious getaway, Mykonos is an exemplary choice. With its crystalline waters, stunning whitewashed buildings, and an impressive selection of gourmet restaurants, this locale invites indulgence. Numerous five-star resorts provide exceptional service where guests are pampered with ease. However, during the peak summer months, these accommodations tend to fill rapidly, prompting the need for timely arrangements to secure a five-star experience in Mykonos.
When it comes to accommodations in Mykonos, travelers will find an abundance of options. Let us explore the best places to stay on the island.
Old Port of Mykonos
The Old Port of Mykonos is the premier location for accommodations on the island. Often referred to as Downtown Mykonos, it presents one of the most picturesque urban settings. The whitewashed exteriors and sporadic blue rooftops evoke images synonymous with Greece’s paradise isle.
Visitors can discover the largest selection of hotels and vacation rentals in the Old Port. This area buzzes with activity; tourists stroll leisurely while wait staff deftly serve an array of delectable Greek cuisines.
Up until the mid-2000s, the Old Port was Mykonos’s primary port, accommodating large cruise ships daily. Although the area has since calmed, it remains an excellent choice for first-time visitors.
Ideal For: Active travelers, art enthusiasts, history buffs, city dwellers, couples, culture seekers, first-time visitors, families, food connoisseurs, sightseers, shoppers, quick-stop travelers.
Neighborhood Highlights: Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, Old Port City Building, A Touch of Art Manuel, Mantos Mavrogenous Statue, Boni’s Windmill, Spiral Art Gallery, Remezzo Mykonos Restaurant, Folklore Museum, Paraportiani Orthodox Church, Marathi.
Recommended Hotels:
- White Memories – This exquisite luxury apartment in the heart of the Old Port features one bedroom along with a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom. Its balcony offers outdoor seating with ocean views.
- Mykonos Town Pad – An exceptional accommodation with a private terrace equipped with lounge chairs and a hot tub, providing views of the Old Port. This apartment includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious living area.
- Villa Kampani – A remarkable self-catering option located just 300 meters from the Old Port. Guests can enjoy private terrace views and complimentary Molton Brown toiletries, along with daily breakfast.
Little Venice
Little Venice is yet another incredibly treasured destination for Mykonos visitors. Located just below the Old Port, Little Venice embodies the charm and romance that travelers anticipate from the island. Numerous vacation rental apartments and stunning boutique hotels exude minimalist elegance in this area.
Many hotels, homes, and eateries overlook the sea, providing a refreshing coastal breeze as visitors leisurely wander through its winding streets. Similar to the Old Port, Little Venice is perpetually vibrant and full of life.
Numerous upscale cocktail bars in Little Venice allow patrons to unwind with picturesque coastal views. As the sun dips below the horizon, live music fills the air, drawing both locals and tourists to dance the night away, with Galleraki Bar serving as an excellent starting point offering spectacular sunset views.
Ideal For: Active travelers, beach enthusiasts, city dwellers, couples, culture seekers, first-time visitors, families, food lovers, music aficionados, sightseers, shoppers, nightlife lovers.
Neighborhood Highlights: Little Venice Viewpoint, Folklore Museum, Paraportiani Orthodox Church, Lena’s House Folk Museum, Rarity Gallery, Spiral Art Gallery, Boni’s Windmill, Old Port of Mykonos, Windmills of Kato Mili, Galleraki Bar, Caprice Bar Mykonos, Souvlaki Story Restaurant, Aegean Maritime Museum, Marathi.
Recommended Hotels:
- Mykonos Theoxenia Luxury Boutique – Located adjacent to the iconic windmills, this hotel features a vintage 1960s theme with a variety of exquisite suites. Guests receive complimentary sparkling wine, healthy trail mix, and luxury cosmetic gifts upon arrival.
- Myconian Inn – This superb hotel offers rooms just a two-minute walk from the beach, designed in bright white with touches of blue, reflecting the island’s aesthetics. All rooms provide cable TV, hairdryers, free parking, and free WiFi.
- Vencia Boutique Hotel – An elegant hotel recognized for its stylish decor and exceptional service, featuring an infinity pool with ocean views, ideal for watching sunsets. Each room has air-conditioning and complimentary WiFi.
Megali Ammos Beach
Megali Ammos Beach serves as an exemplary location for those desiring a bustling Mykonos Town experience while also seeking more space. Situated within walking distance of Little Venice, it offers a more tranquil atmosphere away from the primary tourist hub.
This area is less saturated with hotels, allowing visitors to experience Mykonos in a more authentic manner. Here, the robust waves crash against the beach day and night, providing a rugged yet inviting charm.
The iconic Windmills of Kato Mili are a mere 15-minute walk from Megali Ammos Beach. Some accommodations in this neighborhood offer panoramic views of these historical structures, constructed in the 16th century from local materials and featuring traditional thatched roofs.
Ideal For: Active travelers, beach lovers, budget-conscious visitors, couples, culture enthusiasts, families, foodies, hikers, off-the-beaten-path explorers, sightseers.
Neighborhood Highlights: Megali Ammos Beach, Little Venice, Windmills of Kato Mili, Aegean Maritime Museum, Boni’s Windmill, Joanna’s Nikos Place Taverna Restaurant, Korfos Beach, Old Port of Mykonos, Marathi.
Recommended Hotels:
- Cape Mykonos – A bestselling hotel exhibiting Cycladic-style architecture with luxurious interiors. It features rooms and suites with private balconies boasting stunning island or ocean views and includes free parking.
- Mykonos Bay Resort & Villas – An outstanding design hotel providing sea views and vistas of the renowned windmills, offering complimentary welcome drinks and a Mediterranean breakfast buffet each morning. A complimentary shuttle service is also available for guests.
- Grand Beach – Strategically situated a minute’s walk from the beach, this hotel features luxurious decor and stunning ocean views, with staff dedicated to enhancing the guests’ experience throughout their stay.
Platys Gialos
Platys Gialos stands out as one of the most popular beaches on Mykonos. Located away from the Old Port and Little Venice, it attracts sun seekers from around the globe. This beach is suitable for travelers wishing to bask in the sun and enjoy the refreshing Aegean Sea.
Located in the southwestern region of Mykonos, Platys Gialos enjoys ample sunshine and minimal breezes. It is conveniently just a seven-minute drive from Mykonos International Airport, making it ideal for travelers eager to reach the beach shortly after arrival.
Families will find Platys Gialos particularly appealing. Its soft sandy beach boasts gentle waves and provides ample space for play. Several sandy coves can be found in the area, including Platys Gialos Beach itself, Agia Anna Beach, and Paraga Beach. Those interested in nightlife may wish to venture to nearby Paradise Beach.
Ideal For: Active travelers, beach enthusiasts, budget backpackers, couples, culture seekers, families, food lovers, sightseers, quick-stop travelers, nightlife lovers.
Neighborhood Highlights: Platys Gialos Beach, Agia Anna Beach, Paraga Beach, Paradise Beach, Psarou Beach, Saint Anna Church, Cavo Paradiso Night Club, Tropicana Club, Kuala Beach Bar-Restaurant.
Recommended Hotels:
- Mykonos Palace Beach Hotel – This hotel is just a minute’s walk from the beach and features various amenities, including a snack bar, water sports club, and an outdoor swimming pool. Family rooms are available, and breakfast is included in the rate.
- Mykonos Kosmoplaz Beach Resort – Located just a minute’s walk from beautiful Platys Gialos Beach, this resort features the signature white and blue decor of Mykonos, along with a swimming pool and fitness center. A delightful breakfast is included in the rate.
- Petasos Beach Resort & Spa – Nestled between Platis Yialos and Psarou Beach, this hidden gem offers both privacy and easy access to Mykonos’s must-see sites. Deluxe and superior accommodations feature steam cabins and spa baths.
Ornos
The Ornos neighborhood lies at the intersection of Mykonos’s central area and the scenic Ag. Loans Diakoftis outcrop. This popular tourist neighborhood boasts a variety of hotel accommodations.
Ornos is ideal for active travelers and beach lovers alike. With numerous beaches within walking distance, renting a car is often unnecessary. Travelers can engage in kite surfing lessons at KITE MYKONOS on Korfus Beach, where experienced instructors cater to all skill levels.
The walk from Korfos Beach on one end of the neighborhood to Ornos Beach on the other takes only five minutes. However, during peak summer months, beach space can become limited. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a prime sunbathing spot.
Ideal For: Active travelers, beach enthusiasts, city dwellers, couples, culture seekers, first-time visitors, families, food lovers, sightseers, sporty travelers, quick-stop visitors.
Neighborhood Highlights: Ornos Beach, Korfus Beach, Megali Ammos Beach, Platis Gialos Beach, KITE MYKONOS, Aperanto Galazio Cuisine Bar – Ornos Beach, Pasaji Restaurant, Buddha Bar Beach Mykonos Restaurant.
Recommended Hotels:
- Yiannaki Hotel – Yiannaki Hotel offers excellent accommodations in Ornos, featuring a seawater pool and swim-up bar. Rooms are styled in neutral tones, ensuring a comfortable stay, all equipped with private balconies and air conditioning, with breakfast included.
- Kensho Boutique Hotel & Suites – This upscale hotel is situated just a minute’s walk from the beach and showcases traditional Cycladic decor throughout its elegant property. Rooms come with spa baths, while some include private hot tubs or pools.
- Mykonos Blanc – A picturesque hotel located just steps from Ornos Beach, featuring air-conditioned rooms with either sea or garden views. Mykonos Blanc is highly praised for its superior service.
Elia Beach
Elia Beach represents an ideal accommodation choice for those seeking luxurious experiences in a less-trafficked area of Greece’s paradise isle. Located along the southern coast, Elia Beach is a 25-minute drive from the Old Port and provides a high-end, exclusive atmosphere for discerning travelers.
Visitors typically do not have to contend with crowded sands, as many upscale boutique hotels and lavish apartments are set away from the beach itself.
Just around the bend lies the equally beautiful and less-visited Kalo Livadi Beach, providing access to Kalafati Beach and beyond. Staying at Elia Beach is highly recommended for active guests interested in exploring more of what Mykonos has to offer beyond the Old Port.
Ideal For: Active travelers, beach lovers, couples, culture seekers, first-time visitors, families, food connoisseurs, hikers, sightseers, sporty travelers, luxury travelers, and those seeking a local experience.
Neighborhood Highlights: Elia Beach, Kalo Livadi Beach, Kalafati Beach, Marathi, Ftelia Beach, Espuma Restaurant, Ano Mera Town.
Recommended Hotels:
- Greco Philia Hotel Boutique – Located a two-minute walk from Elia Beach, this beautifully designed boutique hotel features unique room styles and offers breathtaking ocean views.
- Myconian Avaton – Design Hotel – Guests can take advantage of luxurious amenities, including a thalassotherapy wellness center and two outdoor pools, with many rooms showcasing stunning ocean views and Cycladic-inspired design.
- Cova Suites – A lavish accommodation option overlooking Elia Beach, featuring an impressive outdoor pool area with sun loungers. The attentive staff is ready to assist with arranging car rentals for those eager to explore Mykonos.