Mykonos
What to do
Uber-trendy Mykonos, regularly included in Top World Island Lists, is a rather small island in the Cyclades drawing every year an amazing mix of jetsetters , families and tourists, who come here not only for the sandy lace beaches, but for the party scene and the glamorous atmosphere.
Easily accessible via direct flights from several International cities; London, Paris, Geneva, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv, and many more.
Stroll around the narrow marble streets with the stylish shops and restaurants, admire the whitewashed houses with vivid colorful doors and discover hidden churches with purple bloom bougainvilleas in their yards.
Don’t get carried away by the party scene and leave without spending a day full of ancient history in the little island of Delos, the cradle of Cycladic civilization.
When you come back from such an inspiring short trip, relax at a waterfront café and capture the view of the quaint windmills standing imposingly on the hillside above, set against a luminous blue backdrop. In a unique setting where glamour meets simplicity, you can barhop endlessly wearing your flipflops or dress up and soak the so “it” atmosphere in Belvedere Hotel that gathers the “wanna see and be seen” crowd of the island.
Optional Experiences
Activities in Mykonos
Activities
History and culture
Spend a day in the sacred place of Delos – on UNESCO’s World Heritage List!
Delos is one of the most important mythological, historical and archaeological sites in Greece as the excavations in the island are among the most rich and extensive in the Mediterranean. A wonderful family destination, where young travelers are invited to discover the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis through the words of the necessary guide that that can take you back in time and the ancient life of the island.
A must see is the Maritime Museum which focuses on Greek maritime history and tradition and specializes in the merchant-ship history of the Aegean Sea.
Don’t miss the Paraportiani church in the neighborhood of Kastro; this impressive, whitewashed church actually consists of five separate churches which are joined in one. Wander around and discover the numerous churches on the island which according to tradition each family used to build one in order to protect them. This is the reason why you can count 800 chapels on this rather small island.
Activities
Art
Whether you want to buy art, or just browse through contemporary creations of Greek and international artists, visit one of the numerous galleries located on the island. They usually host exhibitions from contemporary, innovative and awarded Greek & foreign artists with the top rated “Rarity Gallery” which also organizes private viewings upon request.
Activities
Beachlife
The beaches of Mykonos are famous for their golden sand and their crystal clear waters, offering great sport facilities, beach life fun and partying. Most of them are located on the southern lacy coast and are better protected from the August wind coming mostly from the north.
The beaches of Mykonos are famous for their golden sand and their crystal clear waters, offering great sport facilities, beach life fun and partying. Most of them are located on the southern lacy coast and are better protected from the August wind coming mostly from the north. The beaches of Paradise and Super Paradise are famous for their long-lasting beach parties. The rocky landscape and the watersports’ fun make it a perfect playground for non-stop fun. At The Pinky and the Super Paradise beach bars, guests dance to the rhythm of guest DJ’s till the sunset. Don’t miss to visit Jackie O bar-restaurant, which is famous for its daily afternoon drag queen show and the impeccable Greek dishes prepared by famous chefs. Psarou Beach and Nammos Restaurant need no introduction – they are the absolute posh places of the Mykonian beach life with celebrities enjoying the sun, sipping champagne, dancing on their sun-beds, next to the turquoise waters. Beaches on the northern coast of Mykonos, such as Ftelia and Alemagou, are less organized, attract younger boho travelers but these northern facing spots are loved by surfers and kite surfers alike. Platis Gialos is a more family style beach with numerous traditional beachfront taverns and organized watersports clubs for our young friends. If you want to head away from the crowded beaches of the southern part of the island, head north to Agios Sostis , one of the nicest and most relaxed beaches of Mykonos. There aren’t any sunbeds or umbrellas and you can dare to take off your bathing suit at the end of the large beach. Last but not least, try a boat ride to the non organized Kapari each, which is facing Delos and enjoys magnificent sunsets.
Here is a short list of different beaches that would satisfy different groups of travelers
Best Party Beaches: Psarrou Beach / Super Paradise / Panormos Beach
Best Beaches for Families: Lia Beach / Agia Anna / Kalafatis Beach
Best Beaches for Watersports: Elia Beach / Kalafatis Beach
Hidden Gems / Less crowded: Fokos Beach / Tigani Beach / Kapari
Activities
Windsurfing and kitesurfing
The Wind and Kite surfing centers in Mykonos are recommended both for adults and children: in the windsurf school in Kalafatis we can help you organize either a private or a group lesson with highly experienced professionals that will teach you to master the waves and the sails! In Korfos beach, next to Ornos beach, you will easily join the club of the kite-surfers that will fascinate you from the first moment.
Activities
Scuba Diving, Snorkeling and Sailing
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Either for Padi certified divers or the curious friends who want to learn and explore the maritime diversity, the quiet Lia Beach has the organized Scuba diving center you need.
Sailing
Hop in for a sailing cruise at the nearby islands and make your vacations in Mykonos unforgettable; indulge yourselves with a daily cruise and discover pristine beaches or watch the sunset while sipping martinis on board.
Activities
Happy Children!
Apart from wind surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling courses that will fascinate our younger guests, a wide range of other sports such as waterskiing, wakeboarding and canoeing and horse riding will keep them happy and busy! They can always enjoy a movie in the open-air daily open cinema in the heart of the Town. For the mountain bike fanatics, discover Mykonos through your wheels on a guided or a self-guided family tour!
Visit the Lighthouse of Armenistis! Located only 7 km northeast of Mykonos Town, this lighthouse of Mykonos sits on a majestic place overlooking Tinos Island. From its steps, the whole family will enjoy stunning views of the nearby islands and watch all boats arriving and leaving Mykonos Ports. Ideal time to visit is early morning or close to the sunset.
Couples or Family Photo shooting day in the villa, in Mykonos Town or at the beautiful Mykonian beaches. Let the photographer capture unforgettable and beautiful moments.
Horseback riding
Right in Fokos beach located at the north part of the island. Suitable for experienced or even beginner riders, this is an opportunity for a lifetime experience riding strong next to the waves and enjoying a local lunch in the unique traditional Fokos tavern. Classes are given by qualified teacher, for children and adults. There are programs with different duration and costs.
Food and Dining
An island with over than 110 restaurant choices, Mykonos gives you the option to dine in luxury or in elegant simplicity, choosing numerous cuisines in a variety of locations. In the summer months, reservations are highly advised as dinner in Greece is served quite late. We have a few recommendations for our guests but please do not hesitate to ask us further for our tips.
Nobu Mykonos
Nobu Mykonos (+30 22890 25122) The only outdoor Nobu in the world, this high class dining venue has captured the jetset scene of this unique island. Set by the pool, in the stunning scenery in the famous Belvedere Hotel, Chef proprietor Nobu Matsuhisa combined his unique Latin American flavored Japanese cooking with the Cycladic aesthetics.
Nammos
Nammos (+30 22890 22440)
This uber trendy beach restaurant in Psarou Beach has been voted for several years as one of the hottest spots in the Med. All open-air, decorated with white wood, stone, bamboo, and palm trees, serves up Mediterranean fusion cuisine and is especially popular for a late glitzy beach lunch followed by dancing.
Sea Satin
Sea Satin (+30 22890 24676)
Sits just below the famous windmills, adjacent to Little Venice. If you prefer a quite family dinner go early, just after sunset; later on it gets more crowded with popular music that takes most visitors off their chairs.
Sol y Mar
Sol y Mar (+30 22890 71745)
Located on the long beach of Kalo Livadi, serves delicious Mediterranean dishes, drinks and cocktails only a few meters from the turquoise waters.
Interni
Interni (+30 22890 26333)
Remains the most enduring value of the ‘island of winds’ when it comes to gastronomy high requirements. The most beautiful garden in Matogianni is inspired and designed by renowned designer Paola Navone. This is an ideal destination for dinner & drinks in the heart of the island set against the Cycladic sky.
Scorpios
Scorpios (+30 22890 29250)
This is THE bohemian restaurant at the Mykonos party scene. The minimalist all wooden setting that faces towards the sunset will invite you to unforgettable moments, when the late afternoon parties with famous guest DJs kick off.
Buddha Bar and Restaurant
Buddha Bar and Restaurant (+302289023220)
The famous Santa Marina Hotel hosts the famous Buddha Bar and Restaurant and invites even the most demanding guest to savor top Japanese cuisine; perfect jet-set spot – reserve days in advance
Hakkasan – LING LING
Hakkasan – LING LING +30 22890 22515)
The arrival of this amazing Chinese open air restaurant and bar, with private dining and lounge, offers its guests Cantonese dishes, coupled with an innovative cocktail list. With sun-infused soundtracks, Ling Ling is designed to evolve from drinking to dining to dancing.
Remezzo
Remezzo (+30 22890 78140)
A much expected newcomer to the island night scene, this is an exceptional restaurant with sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine and an impressively eclectic international wine list. Mykonos town views at its best while the shisha can be served to its stable fans by the 19:00 that the restaurant opens its doors.
Cavo Tagoo
Cavo Tagoo (+30 22890 20100)
A modern minimalistic Mykonian style restaurant with superb service and a remarkable wine list, serves haute cuisine in an exceptional setting with rare views – Mykonos town on one side and a infinity pool on the other.
Bollicine
Bollicine (+30 22890 28298)
In the center of Mykonos’ Chora, Bollicine is a 360º creative space introducing a unique concept to the island: Every new season, it holds a careful curation of the best luxury fashion brands, while at the same time offering an exquisite drinking experience at its terrace, together with the chance to plan an unforgettable private dining affair. Luxury meets serenity, right in the beating heart of the island.
Bars and Nightlife
Mykonos has a history of wild nightlife that dates back to the disco era. A great starting point to your evening, enjoy a huge array of bars located either centrally on the Chora’s main roads, or are tucked away inside its winding cobblestone passages. Rated amongst the best in the world, Mykonian clubs frequently feature super star DJ’s and acclaimed residents. Some people decide to have breakfast in the morning; Others just continue to party.
Don’t miss the scene at the island’s latest glamour spot, the David Rockwell and Colin Cowie–designed CBar in Belvedere Hotel as much for the luxe snack menu (caviar finger sandwiches, anyone?) and for the staggering sunset and night-time views across the town.
For a casual evening, visit our favorite Astra Bar in the center of the old town. This nightspot, popular with well-heeled weekending Athenians, has a ceiling with starlike lights and a candlelit outdoor patio wreathed in bougainvillea.
Beach clubs
Mykonos is famous for its beach bars and clubs, practically you can find one on every beach; dance off to the rhythms in your bathing suit and on the sandy beach as the afternoon progresses.
Getting There
By Plane
By Ferry
By Helicopter
Direct flights from several European cities;
London (EasyJet, Wizz Air, Smartwings)
Paris (EasyJet, Transavia)
Geneva (Swiss, EasyJet)
Tel Aviv (Aegean Airlines)
Abu Dhabi (Etihad)
and many more.
A jet set favorite, Mykonos has a busy airport serviced by domestic and international flights. Aegean Airlines, Sky Express & Ryanair flies to Mykonos via Athens and also connects Mykonos with other Greek destinations.
Mykonos can be easily reached from Athens’ two ports (Piraeus and Rafina) especially in summer when ferry companies add to their scheduled journeys; Modern high-speed catamarans offering several classes of service are operated by Hellenic Seaways (www.hellenicseaways.gr) and Sea Jets (www.seajets.gr) and are twice as fast if you wish to travel by boat. You can also reach Mykonos via other Greek islands if you want to island-hop.
Just a 30 min helicopter ride from Athens – easily accessible even for the most demanding travelers.