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Destination Traveller

Greece

Mykonos

Mykonos does glamour better than anywhere in Greece: beach clubs, late nights and some of the Aegean's best restaurants. But it also has whitewashed lanes, windmills and, a short boat ride away, the sacred island of Delos.

Photo: Unsplash

Why go

For energy, style and a sense of occasion. Mykonos has a serious restaurant and bar scene, beautiful design hotels and a lively social life. Beyond the beach clubs, Chora is a maze of white lanes and churches, and the island's north coast is wild and quiet.

The island at a glance

Chora, the main town, holds Little Venice, the Kato Mili windmills and the Matogianni shopping street. The south coast is where the beach clubs are, from Psarou to Paradise. Ano Mera, inland, is a traditional village with a monastery and a square full of tavernas.

Best for

Partying, people-watching and a glamorous few days. Pair it with Naxos or Tinos for balance.

Eat and drink

Everything from simple fish tavernas to celebrated restaurants. Try louza, the local cured pork, and kopanisti, a peppery cheese spread, and book ahead for sunset tables in Little Venice.

When to go

Mid-May to June and September to early October. Peak nightlife runs from late June to August, when prices are highest. Cruise visitors pay a landing fee on Mykonos, highest from June to September.

Getting there

Direct flights from the UK in season, plus connections via Athens. Ferries run from Piraeus and Rafina and link Mykonos with Naxos, Paros and Santorini.

Where to stay

A boutique hotel in or near Chora for evenings out on foot, or a beachfront hotel on the south coast for the club scene. Ornos and Agios Ioannis are calmer and closer to town.

Don't miss

Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, about 30 minutes by boat; sunset at the windmills; lunch in Ano Mera; a boat day to Rhenia's quiet coves.

Questions

Is Mykonos only for partying?

No. Away from the beach clubs there are quiet north-coast beaches, the village of Ano Mera and the archaeological site of Delos.

How do I visit Delos?

Boats leave from Mykonos Old Port in the morning, taking about 30 minutes; check return times before you go.

When is Mykonos quieter?

Mid-May to June and from mid-September, when many restaurants and beach clubs are open but prices fall.

How long should I stay?

Three or four days, combined with a quieter island such as Naxos.

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