20 BEST Things To Do In Mykonos, Greece In 2025

Seeking the best things to do in Mykonos and don’t know where to start? Don’t worry we have you covered! Mykonos is one of Greece’s most well-known Aegean islands and one of the best Greek islands. Set in the central archipelago of the Cyclades, this island has just about everything going for it – and we mean everything.

There’s nightlife by the gallon, some delicious food, charming Cycladic architecture, beaches, water sports, boutiques, and nightlife. Yeah, did we mention the hedonistic, sometimes pricey nightlife? But there’s more than the obvious, so get ready for the best time on this sunny ancient island with our guide on some of the best things to do in Mykonos.

Where is Mykonos, Greece?

Mykonos is part of the Cyclades islands in the middle of the Aegean Sea and one of the best places to visit in Greece. It’s easily accessible to Athens via ferry and plane. It’s also well connected via ferry to Tinos in the south, Syros in the east, and Paros and Naxos to the north.

Greek islands of the Cyclades group, situated in the middle of the Aegean Sea. Mykonos is located near Tinos, Syros, and close to Paros and Naxos.

Fun Facts About Mykonos

Mykonos is nicknamed the “island of the winds” thanks to its very strong Meltemi winds.

Just over 10,000 people call Mykonos home, though in peak summer months, there will be between 20,000 and 30,000 people on the island. Overall over 2 million tourists see what Mykonos is all about each year!

There are more than 600 churches and small chapels at Mykonos. That means if you do the math, there is a church for every 17 people on Mykonos!

Mykonos has a strict color ordinance for their buildings. Doors and windows must be painted blue, green, or red and this tradition dates back to when sailors used to paint their doors blue, while farmers painted them green, and everyone else painted their doors red. The white color of the home helps keep the home cool during the Mediterranean summer months.

Mykonos was once a popular pirate hub.

Mykonos got its name from Mykonos, who, according to Greek mythology, was a descendant of Apollo.

Our Recommended Mykonos Tours

Best Things to do in Mykonos

1. Wander the Town of Mykonos

The Town of Mykonos is, as you may be able to tell from the name, the main town on the island of Mykonos. It’s home to a quintessential jumble of white, boxy houses and winding streets, both of which were allegedly created to confuse pirates. You can see how: it’s easy to get lost!

One of the best things to do in Mykonos, exploring the town is a great way to get to grips with how it all ticks here. Little cafes, tavernas, flowers spilling out over white-washed balconies, laundry drying in the breeze, little staircases – it’s charming as anything!

Consider Booking a Walking Tour

2. Eat with the Locals

Mykonos is a big, bustling tourist destination. Granted, there are a whole load of restaurants and eateries on the island that come highly recommended for the jet-set who can, you know, afford to eat at posh places.

Instead, one of our favorite things to do in Mykonos is check out local spots. Hop over to Kiki’s Tavern for fresh grilled fish close to Agios Sostis Beach, or tuck into tasty tidbits at the rustic setting of Fokos Taverna.

3. Watch the Sunset in Little Venice

A buzzing district that’s alive with bars and eateries all along the waterfront, the aptly named Little Venice is where a lot of people come for dinner. And rightly so: it’s a beautiful setting for dinner, especially at sunset.

Get here early for a table along the water’s edge before a sundowner, and then sit back and watch the spectacle unfold for yourself. It’s even better with a glass of wine or two, gazing at the sun sinking below the Aegean Sea.

4. Learn about History at the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos

Greece is obviously steeped in history, and the island of Mykonos is no different. To learn more about the history that’s made this island what it is today, we’d recommend heading over to the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos.

Here, you’ll find artifacts that date all the way back to the 9th century BC, which is pretty impressive to us. The most famous piece is an ancient vase that dates back to the 7th century BC; cool in itself, but even cooler is the Trojan horse painted on it. Maybe it wasn’t a myth after all…

5. Enjoy a Picnic Near the Mykonos Windmills

Mykonos is famously called the “island of the winds.” One of the most famous monuments of Mykonos is the windmills. Dating back to the 1500s and originally used to mill wheat (obviously), these round windmills are a cool place to come and enjoy the atmosphere – and the views.

One of the best things to do in Mykonos would be to pack a picnic and make your way from Mykonos Old Town, along the coast and around the bay, to where the windmills are. Sit on the coast with snacks in hand and lap it all up.

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6. Spot the Mykono’s Pelicans

Another lesser-known icon of the island of Mykonos – the humble pelican. Yep, it’s true. In fact, the official mascot of the island is a pelican, and he’s called Petros. Nobody quite knows if it’s the same Petros (we’re guessing not) or if it’s a new Petros. Some sources say he died in 1985 after a 30-year-reign of being the mascot.

Apparently, Jackie Onassis donated a pelican to Mykonos Island shortly afterward. It was named Irene. Another one was donated by Hamburg Zoo. Later, one just appeared. The reincarnation of Petros, maybe?

7. Take a Boat Over to Delos

A quick ferry ride from Mykonos Town will see you arrive at Delos – the birthplace of classic Greek gods Apollo and Artemis. It’s been uninhabited since the 7th century BC. Neat.

This small island is an important archeological site, with the remains of the sanctuary dedicated to the Greek deities to explore, as well as a museum. There are no hotels on the island because, well, it’s super important! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is still being excavated to this day. It will cost around €20 for a return trip.

From Mykonos: Book a 6-Hour Delos and Rhenia Islands Boat Trip

8. Hike Around the island

Mykonos isn’t just beaches, nice food, and nightlife – as fun as all that is. It’s not exactly known for hiking, but you can definitely head for the hills on a Greek hike.

Well, it’s a pretty flat island as far as Greek islands go, which makes a hike relatively easy for anybody. One pretty lovely hike runs from Mykonos Town to the Armenistis Lighthouse on the island’s northwest tip (4 miles). Alternatively, the hike from Ano Mera to Lia Beach is well worth your time – especially in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

9. Explore Inside Lena’s House Folk Museum

Who is Lena? What is this house of hers? You’re about to find out. Lena’s House is a 19th-century Mykonian house whose last owner was called – you guessed it – Lena Skrivanou. She passed away in 1968.

Since that time, it has been opened as a glimpse into the past of Mykonos and has been preserved with pretty much everything intact, from woven rugs and dark wood floors to antique furnishings. A must for any architecture and design junkie. The cost is €2 to enter.

10. Be Charmed by the Churches and Chapels

Mykonos has so many little chapels and churches that look perfect in all its winding streets. Mykonos Town alone has over 60 churches, which is crazy for such a small town, and the island as a whole has 600 to 800.

Many of them date back to the Byzantine era (that’s over 1,000 years old), and several have been built as the resting place for a particular family member, sort of like a shrine. It works out at basically one church per local family, so it kind of begins to make sense.

11. Spend the Day Lazing on the Beach

Let’s face it; it wouldn’t be a trip to Mykonos without spending some (maybe a lot of) time laying out on one of its beaches. They come in various varieties, from the tourist-populated kinds with parasols and sunbeds to relatively untouched stretches of sand.

Head to the very trendy – but very busy – Psarou Beach, complete with beach bars, or the party-centric Paradise Beach. But for something laid-back and secluded, Agios Sostis is a good option. Other fantastic Mykonos beaches:

Platis Gialos
Agios Ioannis
Ornos Beach
Paralia Kalo Livadi

12. Windsurf on Kalafatis Beach

But the beaches in Mykonos aren’t all about being lazy. Some places on this Greek island are primed and ready for more active pursuits. Kalafatis Beach, for example, is the place to go on Mykonos for water sports.

Set on the east side of the island, Kalafatis Beach is well away from the tourist crowds and the development that goes with ‘em. It takes about 30 minutes by car to get there, but it’s definitely worth it; this beach is famous for windsurfing, so if that’s your jam, a trip here is a no-brainer.

13. Party the Night Away

Mykonos is probably most famed for its nightlife and one of the best things to do in Mykonos is enjoy the nightlife scene. The hedonistic side to this island is definitely something that, if you’re into drinking and dancing, you should consider experiencing. It’s a popular place to party.

But where, oh, where should you go? There are tons of places from beachside bars to late-night clubs and raucous drinking holes to find yourself a slice of nocturnal fun.

The Scandinavian Bar plays host to international DJs, which is an excellent place to start (or end) your odyssey; Scorpios equals high prices, but fun times for sure; the famous Tropicana Beach Bar is a good place to end up, too.

14. Clap Cyes on Paraportiani Mykonos

Paraportiani is the most well-renowned church, and possibly the most recognizable icon of the island. It’s that famous, and seeing it is one of the best things to do in Mykonos (especially if you like buildings).

Located overlooking the sea, this could actually be one of the most photographed churches. When you get here and see the white-washed walls and the hodge-podge of five different churches melded together over the ages, you can see why. A jumble of smooth shapes and walls with no outside decoration, this baby dates back to 1425.

15. Visit the Folklore Museum of Mykonos

Located inside an old, 18th-century sea captain’s house – which, to be honest, is pretty much worth a visit in itself – the Folklore Museum of Mykonos tells the, um, folklore of the island.

As such, there are plenty of artifacts spread around the building, from traditional woven fabrics to model boats; from an antique wine press to lithographs of the Greek War of Independence in 1821.

One of the more off the beaten track things to do in Mykonos, if you’re someone who likes looking at collections of local history (and architecture), you’ll love this place.

16. Shop ‘til you Drop in the Island’s Boutiques

With all that money and wealth going around Mykonos, a fair few boutiques have popped up over the years, selling all sorts of different things. There are art shops, galleries, souvenir stands, boutiques selling jewelry, and loads more. Mattheou Andronikou Street is one of the most iconic on the island to walk around and shop on.

Most of the shops are located in Mykonos Town, and many of these are found pretty close together. Shoppers and those looking for an interesting trinket to take back home should make a beeline for some time spent exploring the commercial heart of the island.

17. Explore the Quaint Ano Mera Village

A mere 15-minute drive from Mykonos Town is the less bustling Ano Mera, a village that’s the perfect antidote to the sometimes raucous and wearying main settlement of the island.

This place feels much more traditional. Life in Ano Mera revolves around the main square, with a network of alleyways leading off it, and a few restaurants, shops and bars to enjoy.

It’s definitely one of the most unmissable things to do in Mykonos; visiting the island without going to Ano Mera is practically a sin. Grab a traditional coffee and watch life go by in the square.

18. Peer inside the Monastery of Paleokastro

Perched upon a hill near Ano Mera is the Monastery of Paleokastro. Not strictly a monastery, since it’s actually a nunnery dating back to the 18th century, this is yet another wonder of Cycladic architecture; white-washed and wonderful, spectacular against the sky and sea.

Though the exterior is simple, the interior is adorned with icons and comes complete with an eye-catching altar. Make sure to look for a prehistoric menhir (standing stone) next to the monastery; it’s thought to be either a gravestone or have other religious significance.

19. Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm

If all the beaches and history are weighing heavy on your soul, don’t worry; you can always head to Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm for a good antidote to all that. And a glass or two of their locally grown wine.

It’s been going for 25 years and is set in a classically Cycladic spot. Located near Ano Mera, a 10-minute drive from Mykonos Town, visiting this organic farm is made all the better when you sit down to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch. Or enjoy a wine tasting for €12 a person.

20. Try out a Greek Cooking Class

If you’re a foodie and you love getting to grips with how locals cook, then you should really take the time out to try out cooking Mykonos style. So roll up your sleeves and learn how to make some of your favorite Greek dishes you’ve eaten – and some you’ve never tried.

There are a few places to do this; some locals even offer up their own home kitchens for truly home-cooked dishes. Easily one of the best things to do in Mykonos if you have any sort of affection for food.

Check out the tour times and see if you can get in on a class!

The Best Things to Do in Mykonos Map

Best Restaurants on Mykonos

Kastro’s Restaurant: Located right by the Church of Panagia Paraportiani this sea view restaurant serves delicious seafood.
Captain’s – Food for Sharing: Sounds cheesy but is absolutely fantastic. Try the tzatziki with pita, cheese saganaki or the meat platter for two. Heck everything is good!
Vegera Restaurant Cafe Bar Mykonos: Bar that dishes up local seafood with a flair.

How to Get to Mykonos Island

The best way to get to the Greek islands is via ferry or plane.

By Plane

The Mykonos Airport (JMK) is just 4 km away from Mykonos Town. It’s surprisingly well connected within Europe. There are daily and many flights to and from Athens. However, you can also find flights from London, Paris, and a few other European cities. If arriving from outside the EU you will likely need to connect in Athens or another major European hub.

By Ferry

Unfortunately, the Greek islands are spread apart, and you can’t just hop on a short ferry to the next one. Depending on the journey, the ferry can take forever, or if it’s the next-door island, it can take as little as two hours.

Fortunately, Mykonos is very well connected to other islands via ferries and catamarans. Athens to Mykonos takes between 3.5 hours – 5 hours depending on the type of ferry and route you book. Mykonos is also well connected to Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Milos, and Tinos. It’s honestly one of the most well connected islands, along with Santorini.

Of course, the slower ferries cost less. Expect to pay about €30 for a ticket on the slower ferry and €55 for the fast ferry. It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets beforehand, especially in the high season. Book your ferry tickets here!

Get Around Mykonos

Motorbike or Rental Car in Mykonos

Once on Mykonos, the best way to get around is with a rental car or motorbike. You can usually rent a motorbike for about €15 a day, and the Greeks are generally willing to cut you a deal the longer you rent. This is one way to get to all the destinations you want to get to on your own schedule.

Another great option is a rental car. A rental car can go for €25 a day in the low season up to €50 a day in the higher seasons and will ensure you get to all the best places in Mykonos. Knowing how to drive a manual car will get you better prices in Europe. If you’re traveling as a group, it could be worth your while to hire a car for your trip.

We traveled around Greece for three weeks and paid about €25 a day for a car rental on the Greek Islands, which was a pretty decent deal in my opinion! I generally like to check comparison sites so I can get the best prices. My favorites to look at are:

RentalCars.com: Provides comparisons for car rentals in Greece.
AutoEurope: I can often find deals here for car rentals in Europe.
Discover Car Hire: Searches rental car prices around the globe.

Your own transport is super helpful if you want to venture to some of the quieter spots on the island, especially the north coast. Keep in mind that cars are not permitted in Mykonos Town, and parking may be a struggle. So if you are staying in the center of town or don’t plan on venturing around Mykonos too much, a motorbike may be better for you.

By Bus

Mykonos has a great bus network that can get you to many places around the island. There are two different bus stations in Mykonos Town. The bus will get you to the south of the island and all the best beaches but may be limiting if you want to travel to some of the less-known spots in Mykonos.

When is the Best Season to Visit Mykonos?

High season (June-September)

Like most places in Europe, Greece’s high season runs from June to mid-September. This is when you will find the best sunny weather, as noted above, and crowds, especially on the popular islands like Mykonos. Days are longer, and the weather is HOT, so you’ll want to be close to a pool or ocean. Hotel and car rental prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Season (April – May, and October-November)

The weather in Greece is cooler during these months. Some would consider it much more comfortable than prime summertime weather. It’s not as busy as the summertime, but you’ll still see many travelers lingering about. Prices on accommodation and car rentals will drop during this time. The shoulder season is typically a fantastic time to visit Greece.

Low Season (Late November- early April)

The temperatures are cooler during the low season in Greece. You’ll still see plenty of sunny days, overcast days, and little to no sunbathing. It’s too cold to dip in the water, but you can still enjoy the beaches with some clothes on to keep warm in the breeze. The upside is you’ll find low prices and low numbers of tourists.

Best Time To Visit Greece

Where to Stay on Mykonos Island

How Long Should You Spend on Mykonos?

People of all ages flock to Mykonos for many reasons. However, the most popular reason is that it is a party-friendly island with some of the best clubs in the world. Mykonos has a “name” to it, which means that prices are also high. The prices for just about everything on Mykonos are much higher than anywhere else we have traveled in Greece, sometimes double!

At any given hour of the night, you’ll likely find screaming 20-somethings raging down the streets – bring earplugs if you stay in town. It’s also crowded with tourists during the high season. This is not why I love traveling to Greece; two days on Mykonos was enough for us. My parents also visited before our wedding in Paros and before traveling to Naxos and were not particularly in love with Mykonos. They tell me now that they wish they had only spent an afternoon there.

We particularly loved Mykonos for the charming white-washed houses, stone streets, back alleys, and picturesque streets.

I’m happy to visit Mykonos, especially since it’s a great hub for getting around the Cyclades, but you’ll never find me staying too long. If you are like me and past the times of drinking till exhaustion while overpaying for everything, I suggest spending no more than three days on Mykonos.

After Mykonos considering island hopping to Paros, Naxos, Tinos, and Milos nearby!

Greek Travel Planning Resources

‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Yasou” and “Efharisto”
Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
Visa: Schengen visa. Which is 90 days in the European Union out of 180. Many nationalities are granted this on arrival for free. Check with your embassy to see if that is you.
Weather: The weather in Greece is a Mediterranean climate. This means winters are mild and rainy, while summers are warm and dry with plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
What to Pack: Warm weather clothes and a swimsuit, don’t forget a good pair of clothes to go and a jacket for cool nights. Read about what to wear in Greece.
Budget: If you’re in the initial stages of planning, check out our awesome post that breaks down how much a trip to Greece costs.
Rent a Car: We suggest most visitors consider renting a car for the best trip possible. Try Discover Cars to compare quotes from different rental agencies. Check Price Here!
Protect Your Trip: Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance! We always carry travel insurance to protect us from injury, theft, or a canceled trip. We use HeyMondo for our insurance needs.
Tours in Greece: Check out our list of the best tours you can enjoy in Greece!
Travel Adapter: Make sure you find a good adapter to keep your personal electronics charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. Purchase one here.

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