The First-Timer’s Guide to Mykonos

Updated July 2025. Originally published March 2017.

Mykonos has been one of my favorite places to date. After two visits to this iconic Greek island, this guide to Mykonos will help you plan your time there.

Mykonos is a laid-back island, boasting secluded beaches, vibrant hotels, and a nightlife scene that rivals Ibiza. The days are spent under the sun, with dips in the calm Aegean Sea, and when everyone has caught the sunset at the water, the Chora (Mykonos Town) comes to life.

Mykonos is an island that offers something for everyone. It’s common to see a couple escaping for their honeymoon, or a group of friends looking for a weekend of fun and beach parties. Then there are the travelers looking to experience the island for what it is — an adventure-filled experience.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Mykonos:

Hotels

1. Kalesma ($$$$), for the best exclusive hillside serenity hotel
2. Santa Marina ($$$$), for the best private beach luxury hotel
3. Mykonos Ammos Hotel ($$$), for the best beachfront boutique hotel

Things to Do

1. Walking and Food Tasting Tour of Mykonos Town
2. Catamaran Day & Sunset Cruise
3. Sail Cruise to Delos and Rhenia Islands
4. Semi-Private Cruise around Paros and Antiparos
5. Half-Day Tour of Naxos Island

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

If you’re considering island hopping, don’t miss my guide to Santorini, local’s guide to Naxos, and post about my time sailing between Santorini and Mykonos!

The First-Timer’s Guide to Mykonos, Greece

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Helpful Tips Before Planning Your Trip to Mykonos

• Use a 4×4 to get around — The island is rather spread out, and can take 45 minutes to an hour to get from one side to another. 4x4s are the easiest way to get around (always wear a helmet!).
• Fly in from Athens — several flights a day land here from Athens, making it uber convenient to arrive.
• Have cash on hand — Be sure to have cash out before arriving in Mykonos, as many places only take cash. The local currency is euros.
• Reserve a chair at a beach club — some beaches have “day clubs” where you pay to have a chair. It’s worth having an umbrella if you’re looking to spend a day in the sun.

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Where to Stay in Mykonos

From chic boutique hideaways to uber-luxury retreats, here are the best stays for soaking in the island’s magic:

1. Kalesma Mykonos ($$$$), for the best exclusive hillside serenity hotel
2. Santa Marina ($$$$), for the best private beach luxury hotel
3. Mykonos Ammos Hotel ($$$), for the best beachfront boutique hotel
4. Boheme Hotel ($$$), for the best bohemian-inspired luxury hotel
5. Kove Mykonos ($$$), for the best private luxury boutique hotel

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Where to Eat and Drink in Mykonos

Here’s my go-to list of favorite restaurants and bars on the island:

• Pepper, I eat here at least 3 times while in Mykonos. Probably your cheapest good meal in town, with incredible souvlaki and salads
• Kiki’s Tavern, dine in the open air, and enjoy fresh grilled fish and other proteins
• Sea Satin Market, a quiet spot and great for mezedes
• Cavo Psarou, head here for lunch at the beach, with an easy menu
• Nikos, a taverna that is always happening, and good for a variety of fare
• Koursaros, a spot for fresh fish and seafood linguine
• Boa’s Cocktail Bar, head here for sunset drinks
• Bill & Coo, catch the sunset here and grab drinks
• Lartecono Davinci Gelato, for gelato (try their black sesame cone!)

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What to Do in Mykonos

• Rent a 4×4, this is one of the best (and most affordable) ways to see the island
• Take a Sunset Catamaran, get on a boat, and enjoy the open sea
• Explore Mykonos Town, the beautiful white streets of the chora provide endless hours of exploring
• See the windmills, these are icons of the island, and worth a look
• Catch Sunset, head down to the water in town, and you’ll see the crowds start to gather for sunset. Grab a spot, bring a bottle of wine, and watch the most beautiful sunset.
• Beach Hop, there are many beaches, with favorites being Super Paradise Beach, Psarou Beach, Agios Sostis, Kalafati Beach, and Elia Beach
• Try a Beach Club, set up shop at Nammos for a day of fun and music at the beach
• Exploring Neighboring Islands, consider sailing to the island of Delos, with its archaeological sites, or Paros and Naxos
• Explore other towns on the island, consider Platys Gialos or Ano Mera
• Visit the Aegean Maritime Museum, explore the maritime history of the Greeks

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