Mykonos, Greece, Has Charming Villages, an Epic Party Scene, and More Than 20 Beaches — How to Visit

The Greek island of Mykonos has long beckoned travelers with its whitewashed homes, crystal-clear waters, rich culture, and, of course, fantastic parties. And that’s just the beginning. 

“It’s a lively town that offers a perfect mix of boutique properties, beautiful beaches, local shops, and a hot food and nightlife scene. Its international airport and proximity to the other Greek islands, as well as to Athens, make it an easy destination to access and an ideal spot to add to a longer itinerary,” Liam Dunch, Abercrombie & Kent’s global group product manager for Europe, shared with Travel + Leisure. 

Shannon Yates, a country specialist for Greece at Audley Travel, agrees, noting that the beaches are the best in the region, and reason enough to visit. 

“Mykonos has some of the best beaches in the Cyclades. Due to the shape of the island, lots of beaches are nestled into coves that are relatively protected from wind, making for pleasant beach days,” Yates says. “The sand is also high quality, the water is the quintessential turquoise color we think of when we think of a Greek island, and the weather is reliably warm.” 

Ready to start plotting your trip to the island? Here’s everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Mykonos. 

Best Hotels and Resorts

Katikies Mykonos

Located above the Agios Ioannis beach, Katikies Mykonos offers both fantastic views and intimate charm. Here, guests can book oversized, light-filled suites, which open to private patios with plunge pools. And when you’re ready for a bite, head right to Botrini’s Mykonos, the on-site fine-dining restaurant serving delicious Greek cuisine.

Cavo Tagoo

Cavo Tagoo, which also comes with a privileged location near Mykonos Town, is beloved for its commitment to minimalist, whitewashed decor with splashes of decadent gold hues throughout. As for the common spaces, guests can dive into the property’s stunning infinity pool that disappears into the horizon, unwind in the spa, and dine at Meraki Restaurant, which highlights Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. 

Kalesma Mykono

Kalesma Mykonos, voted one of T+L readers’ favorite hotels in Greece in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, is as stunning as a hotel can get. The luxury resort sits atop a hill, providing panoramic views from every corner. The resort embraces a minimalist style that’s both soothing and helps put the focus back on the island’s natural beauty. Each of the spacious, airy suites comes with chic furnishings and opens to a patio with private plunge pools, so guests always feel like they’re in complete solitude. Kalesma Mykonos also has several fantastic dining venues, too, including Pere Ubu, which specializes in Greek small plates. 

Cali Mykonos

Cali Mykonos, located on Kalafatis Beach, perfectly blends traditional Greek design with a more contemporary aesthetic featuring earth-toned walls, white and cream furnishings, and suites with private plunge pools and sea views. The hotel also has plenty of wellness offerings, including regular yoga sessions, a state-of-the-art gym, and a brand-new spa opening in 2025.  

Best Things to Do

Visit the windmills.

No visit to Mykonos is complete without a stroll through the iconic windmills of Kato Mili. The windmills, some of which were built between the 15th and 16th centuries, have become Instagram famous in their own right, thanks to their picture-perfect appearance and location. Swing by during sunset to see them with the crowds, or head there in the early morning to have them a bit more to yourself.

See Little Venice.

Explore the charming district known as Little Venice, an area filled with colorful buildings sitting on the water’s edge. The spot is known for its utter romance and distinct architecture, with buildings featuring balconies hovering over the water — these were used by Greeks to load their goods directly onto boats and (hopefully) avoid pirates.  

Walk and shop around Chora.

Spend some time walking through the main village of Chora, a.k.a. Mykonos Town, weaving your way through the narrow streets and dipping in and out of stores to find the perfect souvenir. 

Hit the beach.

There are 22 official beaches and several other unofficial options to spend your days on while on Mykonos. There’s Ornos, the ideal spot for those seeking sandy shores and fantastic food, Platis Gialos, which has a bit more of a scene, and Elia, for anyone wanting to sunbathe while avoiding tan lines, if you catch our drift.

Best Nightlife

Cavo Paradiso

Dance the day and night away at Cavo Paradiso, a club that sits on a cliff’s edge, offering fantastic views and vibes. Come to catch a DJ performance and see if you can make it to its 7 a.m. closing time.

Skandinavian Bar & Disco

Skandinavian Bar & Disco has kept the party going since the late 1970s. Here, guests can dance between three rooms, including an open-air courtyard. Book a table, bottle service, or even a special “last fling before the ring” package for a perfect bachelor or bachelorette experience. 

Paradise Club

Party right on the sand at the open-air Paradise Beach Club, which attracts thousands of revelers who want to dance all day and night. You can come and go as you please — the party will still be going when you come back. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mykonos is during its summer season, between late May and late September. This when the weather is at its prime, with temperatures averaging between the high 70s and mid-80s, according to Weather Spark. However, this is also when the island is at its busiest, with tourists flocking to the beaches, clubs, and restaurants. So, if you’re hoping to see the island when it’s a bit calmer, consider doing during another time. According to Yates, “The best time to visit Mykonos is outside the busy summer peaks, during spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). Temperatures are warm but not stifling, and destinations are open but relatively quiet.” And coming in mid-September means you may be able to hit the Harvest Festival, where you can dine and drink with the locals. 

How to Get There

By Flying

Mykonos is easily accessible by plane thanks to the Mykonos International Airport, located just a quick drive from Mykonos Town. The airport is serviced by airlines like Aegean, Air France, EasyJet, and Lufthansa, with most flights connecting through Athens. 

By Ferry

The island is also serviced by regular ferries, which connect to several other islands, as well as direct ferries to and from Athens. Direct ferries take about 2.5 hours. 

Villages to See 

Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town is the heart of the island. Known for its vibrant nightlife, dining venues, and picture-perfect cobblestone streets, it’s a place worth exploring for at least a full afternoon during your stay.

Ornos

The beach village of Ornos is also worth an entire day’s excursion. Here, travelers can lounge on the sand or rent loungers for extra comfort before visiting the nearby restaurants for some of the best Greek food on the island.

Ano Mera

Escape the chaos of the island’s more touristy areas with a visit to the traditional village of Ano Mera. Though it’s the second-largest village on Mykonos, it’s still considerably smaller than Mykonos Town. And there’s lots to do here, too, like visit the 16th-century monastery, Panagia Tourliani; sip varietals from the wineries; and explore the Gyzi Castle. 

How to Get Around

By Car

Renting a car is a great choice for anyone looking to explore more of the island on their own schedule. There are plenty of major car rental services available, including Hertz, Europcar, and Budget. 

By Public Transit

Mykonos has a robust bus system that takes travelers to and from major towns and beaches.

By Moped

Travelers can also opt to get around via moped, which can be easily rented at several retailers on the island. Just make sure to be extra cautious and always wear a helmet.