As any self-respecting tourist guide will tell you, a tour to Delos is a must. Hop on one of the little boats that take you the tiny islet, once a religious powerhouse to ancient Greece and one of today’s most important archaeological sites. If you’re a fan of the arts and culture, you will find an array of cutting-edge galleries that host exhibitions of local and international artists. Shopping is a form of art, too, in Mykonos.
Walking through the narrow alleys of the town, you will come across little local shops and luxury boutiques that are open until late at night during peak season. Island living is of course all about the beaches, and Mykonos is thankfully big enough to satisfy every taste. If you’re in a cosmopolitan mood, head for Psarou, the favourite haunt of the rich and famous, or the fashionable bay of Panormos with its stylish beach restaurant.
If you want to escape the crowds, try Agios Sostis, Lia or Kapari. Mykonos is famed for its nightlife for a reason -the island is full of hip venues that range from easy-going seaside bars to pulsing night-clubs that host international DJs. If you’re not in a party mood, you can stroll the village of Ano Mera to get a feel of old Mykonos or watch a movie under the stars at the open-sky gardens of Cine Manto in Chora.
Best beaches in Mykonos
Agia Anna Natural beauty, simplicity and calmness are what make Agia Anna one of the most beautiful coasts of Mykonos. Greenish waters and thin sand adorned with umbrellas of palm tree leaves, all in perfect tune with the area’s ambience.
Agios Sostis Fine white sand, gleaming turquoise waters and a pristine scenery that inspires instant tranquillity. Even if its somewhat crowded, Agios Sostis is one of the island’s most relaxing and untouched beaches, attracting savvy travellers and locals alike.
Elia One of the favourite beaches for celebrities, Elia is a very long and wide coast with whitish sand and light blue transparent waters. Luxury services are in place while large yachts usually anchor in its bay.
Ftelia Renowned among watersports lovers, this is a fully organized beach with winds blowing almost always. When the sea is calm though, the place is like a lagoon divided in two by massive rocks.
Kalafatis A gorgeous fine-sand beach with brilliant blue waters favoured by windsurfers for its offshore breeze. The beach is well organised with loungers, waters ports and a diving school.
Kalo Livadi One of Mykonos’ hotspots and among its largest coasts featuring shallow waters and golden sand. Kalo Livadi is a partying spot with loud beach bars, many young people and an endless variety of facilities.
Kapari An isolated bay protected by a hillside, overlooking the island of Delos. Kapari is one of the island’s best kept secrets and is frequented by visitors who want to escape the crowds.
Lia A quiet, organised beach protected by the merciless northern winds, with fine white sand and heavenly waters, tucked into the south-east coast of Mykonos.
Ornos A family beach with fine sand and crystal clear waters just a couple of kilometres away from the island’s busting centre. Ornos is dotted with loungers and lined with restaurants and beach bars.
Panormos A fine-sand stretch with crystal clear waters and one of the country’s best beach bars that offers exquisite dishes and a mouth-watering list of cocktails.
Paraga Very near Mykonos Hora, Paraga is a small yet charming beach with whitish sand, small pebbles and amazing views to Naxos, Delos & Paros. One of the most popular coasts on the island, ideal for snorkeling.
Platys Yalos An endless sun-kissed sandy coast, one of the longest on the island. Ideal for families, it offers all necessary beach amenities while located within the busy homonymous settlement with hotels, taverns and mini markets.
Psarou The glamorous bay of Psarrou gets frantic during peak season. Nevertheless, It is the place to be if you feel like sipping a bubbly and mingling with local and international celebs.
Super Paradise Super Paradise is as famous for the natural beauty of its setting, as it is for the wild parties that start from midday and drag on until late night. Studded with loungers and lined by bars and restaurants, the beach is one of the island’s party hotspots.
Tigani & Fragia Tigania and Fragia are two isolated coves at the western tip of Mykonos. The two beaches are easier to access by sea, making them blissfully tranquil even during peak season.
