Our final stop in the Cyclades was Mykonos, and we were eager to explore this famous island. Although it wasn’t our favorite, it is both charming and lively. We knew we wouldn’t experience the typical Mykonos frequented by jet-setters and party-goers.
Traveling to Mykonos: Practical Information
How to Get to Mykonos
Additionally, it’s essential to rent a vehicle for 1 or 2 days. We opted for a quad for a sense of freedom, but you can also rent a car or a scooter (it’s possible to explore the island without driving on dirt roads). Compare car rental prices on Ulysse to find the best deal for your Mykonos trip. In case of issues, the customer service (4.9/5 on Trustpilot) is available to assist you promptly.
In our opinion, the ideal duration for visiting Mykonos is 3 days.
Where to Stay in Mykonos
We recommend staying in the center of Mykonos Town. We found the perfect accommodation right in the heart of the town, quiet, with a fully equipped kitchen, and excellent service. Moreover, Stefanos, who manages these lodgings, found us a cheaper quad rental just a 5-minute walk away with free parking! Indeed, Mykonos Town is entirely pedestrianized, and parking around the town is paid.
What to Do in Mykonos: Our Recommendations
Explore Mykonos Town
Strolling through this charming Cycladic town is a real pleasure. You might think it’s similar to other islands you’ve visited, but it’s much larger and easy to get lost in.
We recommend wandering around as much as possible. You’ll encounter small streets, souvenir and luxury shops, as well as numerous trendy cafes and restaurants.
Where to Eat in Mykonos Town
Just like in Santorini, prices in Mykonos are a bit higher than in other parts of Greece. Here are some great places to eat:
- Lalala: Perfect for breakfast. The place is very cute and has a terrace. You’ll find hearty pancakes with a wide selection.
- Pepper: For a good Gyros lunch. The tables in the small alleys add a lot of charm.
- Amades Mykonos Eat Local: As the name suggests, this restaurant offers local products and it’s truly excellent. The manager handles the service very well. The terrace seating is limited, so we recommend arriving early or for the second service.
- D’Angelo Mykonos: After 10 days of Greek cuisine (which we love), we wanted to try an Italian place. We couldn’t have picked better! The service, ambiance, and pizzas are top-notch. The restaurant also has a wide selection of wines.
Sunset in Mykonos Town
Before the sun sets, head to the famous Mykonos Windmills. With the evening light, the place is magical! There was a lot of wind during our visit, as is often the case in the Cyclades, so we ended up in a bar to enjoy the sunset.
Where to Eat in Mykonos Town
Here are a few more dining options:
- Lalala: Ideal for breakfast with its cute decor and terrace. Enjoy hearty pancakes with many choices.
- Pepper: Great for a Gyros lunch in charming alley tables.
- Amades Mykonos Eat Local: Featuring local products and excellent food. Limited terrace seating, so arrive early or for the second service.
- D’Angelo Mykonos: A great Italian spot with excellent service, atmosphere, and pizzas. They also offer a broad selection of wines.
Sunset in Mykonos Town
For an unforgettable sunset, visit the iconic Windmills of Mykonos. The evening light creates a magical atmosphere! We experienced a lot of wind, common in the Cyclades, so we took refuge in a bar to watch the sunset.
It turned out to be a lucky find as we discovered the Negrita Bar. The setting is just sublime! As you might expect, prices are less so; expect around €40 for the cheapest bottle of wine and €15 for a cocktail. Arrive early to secure an outdoor seat and enjoy the sunset with the sound of the waves.
What to Do in Mykonos: Excursions and Activities
If time permits, we highly recommend taking a cruise to the islands of Delos and/or Rhenia.
There are various ways to explore these islands and numerous activities available. You can make reservations for these excursions here.
For a more authentic experience away from the tourist spots, consider a half-day excursion to visit remote villages, quaint ports, and secret beaches on Mykonos.
Exploring Around Mykonos
While Mykonos isn’t primarily known for its beaches, it does have some beautiful ones worth exploring. We decided to do a loop around the island in one day to check them out.
Kapari Beach
Kapari Beach is the westernmost beach on Mykonos, located just 10 minutes from the town center. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset. The views are spectacular, and the setting is relatively serene compared to other beaches on the island.
Psarou Beach
Located close to Mykonos Town, Psarou Beach is one of the island’s most popular beaches. The water is crystal clear and often very calm due to its location in a bay. You’ll find beach clubs, bars, and restaurants here, which are usually bustling with visitors.
Super Paradise
Nearby Psarou, Super Paradise Beach is similar in style but typically even more crowded and lively. It’s a hotspot for those looking for a party scene, both day and night. If you’re in the mood to dance and socialize, this is the place to be.
Agrari Beach
Agrari Beach is a beautiful spot on Mykonos with turquoise waters. Behind the rocks visible in the photos is a secluded cove that is nudist and gay-friendly for those interested in a more relaxed beach experience.
Loulos Beach
Located 20 minutes east of Mykonos Town, Loulos Beach is frequented by locals. It’s less commercialized than other beaches, lacking resorts and beach clubs. The area is wilder and quieter, making it a great spot to relax for a few hours.
Fokos Beach
Fokos Beach is a large, remote beach situated in the northern part of Mykonos. The sea here is much rougher, and access involves a dirt road. We decided against stopping here due to the challenging terrain. However, if you enjoy off-road paths and quad biking, we recommend heading up to the heights west of the beach. Be prepared for a steep climb and a rugged trail.
Kiki’s Tavern
During your tour around Mykonos, we suggest stopping at Kiki’s Tavern for lunch. The setting is stunning, and the food is excellent. However, note that during peak season, it’s advisable to book a table in advance. Even in early October, the restaurant was quite full. After your meal, you can relax at the small cove below the restaurant, known as Lovers’ Beach.
There are certainly more beaches to explore on Mykonos, but we only had one day for this roundtrip due to the less favorable weather conditions.
Sunset at 180° Sunset Bar
As the day winds down, head to 180° Sunset Bar to watch the sunset. This spot is highly Instagrammable, but be prepared for elevated prices. Expect to pay around €9 for a beer or a glass of wine and at least €15 for a cocktail. The views are worth it, though, as you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas with the sunset as a backdrop.
Mykonos, with its blend of lively atmosphere and serene landscapes, offers a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveler. From exploring charming beaches like Kapari and Agrari to immersing yourself in the bustling nightlife at Super Paradise, there’s something for everyone. The island’s unique blend of tradition and modernity is perfectly captured in its vibrant towns, picturesque sunsets, and authentic dining spots.
Whether you’re cruising to nearby islands, discovering hidden coves, or simply enjoying a sunset cocktail at a panoramic bar, Mykonos promises memorable moments and beautiful scenery. While it may not have been our favorite Cycladic island, its charm and energy are undeniable. Take the time to soak in the beauty and vibrancy of Mykonos, and you’ll find it’s a destination worth visiting. Enjoy your journey and make the most of every experience this captivating island has to offer!
