The first time I traveled to Mykonos was in 2016 with my mom and sister, and have gotten the opportunity to go back with them just about every year since (yes you read that right, I most definitely party with my mom in Mykonos!) Our first trip island hopping around Greece was just about 14 days and we wanted to hit all the major islands. We are a big beach family so our first time staying in Mykonos was a little far from all the action, but we still made it possible to see mostly everything in 3 days. I would say we have become experts since returning six times and have seen just about all Mykonos has to offer! Mykonos is one of the most traveled to islands in Europe, and I have met so many amazing people from across the world and from the states. The island is very big on the party scene, and there’s a good chance you will even see some shirts in gift shops that say, “MYKONOS F***KS IBIZA.” On the flip side, there are also many activities to do where you can relax, enjoy the sun and sightsee. There is so much I can go in depth about this island, and I will in later posts, but for now I will give you some of my top recommendations for your first time visiting.
Number of Days to Stay: 3-5 Days
Expense: $$-$$$$
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Where to Stay:
Depending on how much time you are spending on the island, you want to pick a central location so all your activities and sights you want to visit are easily accessible by any kind of transportation. Below, I have listed the top villages to look for accommodations while you explore.
Mykonos Town – Mykonos Town is the most popular part of the island as it is flooded with shops, restaurants, sightseeing (like the infamous windmills), and of course nightlife. While the town mostly consists of Airbnbs, small hotels, and hostels, I have never stayed in the main town as I prefer to spend my afternoons at the beach, which can be easily accessible from my hotel. Public Transportation is also easily accessible here, as well as rentals that will take you to many popular spots on the island. If you are traveling in Mykonos for 2-3 days and don’t mind hiking every morning to a new beach club, this is definitely your spot to stay in. Below, I researched the top 3 places to stay in Mykonos town via hotel or rentals:
Paradise Beach – If you love to party all day and all night, this is the spot for you. I have stayed in Paradise Beach almost every time I have visited Mykonos, and it never disappoints. The beach is accessible from almost all hotels and has a public transportation stop right outside the Tropicana Beach Club. This beach club allows you to reserve chairs in advance, which is a great option since they typically fill up quickly during the day! Paradise Beach also has three of the hottest parties on the island that you MUST experience at least once, but we will get to that later. There is also a nearby market that is within walking distance from the beach where you can buy food, drinks, beach essentials, and even alcohol! To me, you are getting the most of your money while staying at Paradise Beach if you love to swim, love good music, and love to party. Below are my top 3 places to stay in Paradise Beach via hotel, rentals, and camping:
Platy Gialos – Platy Gialos is one of the best places to stay in Mykonos if you are traveling with a family or want to stay in a reserved but popular part of the island. We never stay at this part of the island, but always visit via a water taxi boat. The accommodations quickly fill up as they are mostly villas and hotels for large families /groups, so be sure to book early. The beach is lined with chairs and umbrellas for rent, restaurants, and quick access to the village from the beach. Everyone is swimming, on floats, or playing Raketes (aka Paddle Ball). This part of the island also contains one of the main stops for the small water taxi boats that will take you to different beaches along the Mykonos coast. Below, I researched the top 3 places to stay in Platy Gialos via hotel or rentals:
Paralia Panagka/ Paraga Beach – Paralia Panagka, or more commonly known as “Paraga Beach,” is a great place to stay if you don’t mind breaking the bank a little. Although you also have the option to save money by staying at one of the main hostels on the island, which is located on the left side of the hill! Paraga is home to SantAnna Beach Club and Kulua Beach Club, which both include fancy beachside cabanas, chairs, and umbrellas. If you are trying to save some money, you can walk past the two famous beach clubs to the far end, where there are more affordable chair sets, and you can still hear the music. Facing the water from the beach, you will spot one of the most famous beach clubs and nightclubs in Mykonos known as “Scorpios,” which you can access by walking a beaten path. (I have done this before; it is a quick little shortcut, but can be exhausting with the dry heat of Greece). Other than the hostel, most of the places to stay in Paraga are up the hill in hotels and villas. Below, I researched the top 3 places to stay in Paraga Beach via hotel, hostel, or Airbnb:
Ornos & Psarrou Beach – I have decided to combine Ornos and Psarrou Beach for the purpose of that they are near one another. Psarrou Beach, better known as “Nammos,” is very small and is probably the wealthiest part of the island. If you want to travel luxuriously or spend a bit more money to stay in the quieter parts of Mykonos, Ornos Village is the destination for you. This spot is most famous for celebrities to stay in as it is secluded and features many upscale villas and hotels, as well as couples who are vacationing or on their honeymoon. For me, this spot is more of a half-day or day visit, but I wanted to include it here in case some of us want to treat ourselves and live the luxe life in Mykonos. Below, I researched the top 3 places to stay in Mykonos town via hotel or rentals:
Where to Eat:
There are many places to eat in the town, whether you want traditional Greek, Italian, French, or simply a Gyro! Depending on the village, you may find that there are only a couple of seaside tavernas or restaurants, so most travelers will explore outside of where they are staying to find somewhere to dine. I would recommend making reservations for the popular restaurants, especially if it is a dining experience. For all my gluten-free, Vegetarians, or Vegans, you are in luck! There are many restaurants that will cater to your dietary restrictions or will accommodate you, especially in Mykonos Town. Below I have listed some of the restaurants I have eaten at, as well as additional recommendations that I have researched, which are worth visiting around your schedule.
Mykonos Town:
- Tassos Taverna – Paraga Beach ($-$$): If you want authentic Greek food in Mykonos, this is one of the few places you’ll find it. I return here every year whether it’s for food or lunch at the beach.
- Nikos Taverna -Mykonos Town ($-$$$): This restaurant is right in the heart of Mykonos town, and is another restaurant serving traditional Greek food. You can make a reservation, or if it is not too crowded, you will be able to be seated right away. Vegan options!
- Baboulas Ouzeri or Kavos Taverna – Old Mykonos Town ($-$$$): Each one of these places has great seafood and an amazing view of the old port. It is a little way from the town so it is less congested with tables and you can get a table right at the seaside.
- Interni ($$-$$$) – If you have seen videos of dinner parties in Mykonos on social media it is most likely people dancing on top of tables, waving their napkins at Interni! If you are looking for a fun atmosphere, but don’t really care about the quality of the food then make sure you make a reservation here way in advance!
- Jimmy’s Gyros ($): The best Gyros in the town. Vegan options!
Other Recommendations:
- Tropicana ($-$$): You wouldn’t believe how good the food is for beach bar service. You can eat pizza, pasta, and traditional Greek food. Our family favorite is the side of dolmades (grape leaves), the chicken or lamb Gyro, and chicken or pork Souvlaki. If you are staying at the Tropicana Hotel, the room service is just as good!
- IT (Michelin Star) – Paradise Beach ($$$$): This restaurant opened in 2022 and has a “Tulum” vibe to it. The food wasn’t my favorite, but the other people in my group liked it! It definitely is on the pricey side as it is a Michelin Star restaurant, but the atmosphere and music were great. I would stop here for a cocktail and drinks, although the prices are the same as Scorpios so beware!
- Zuma ($$$-$$$$) – A popular spot in multiple Mediterranean destinations as well as major cities, the Japanese restaurant also serves as a beach club. I put this on my list as it is a popular spot to go to, but I feel like there are much better places to eat at unless you are craving sushi!
- NAMMOS ($$$-$$$$) – Around 4pm, this restaurant turns into a dance party at the restaurant right on the beach and will go until 9 or 10pm! Make sure to time your reservation accordingly, as your table will have a time limit on how long you can stay, and reservations book fast!
- Hippie Fish (Sushi) – Agios Ioannis ($$$) Vegan Options
- Beefbar – Mykonos Town: Agios Ioannis ($$-$$$)
- Kounelas Fish Taverna ($-$$$)
- M-Eating – Mykonos Town ($$$)
- Buddha Bar – Ornos Beach ($$$)
- Scorpios – Agia Anna ($$$$)
- D’Angelo – Mykonos town Vegan options ($$)
- Jackie’O restaurant – Super Paradise ($$$$)
- Phos Restaurant – Platy Gialos ($$$)
Vegetarian/Vegan Recommendations:
- Bowl – Ornos Beach ($$)
- Koukoumi Hotel – Ano Mera ($$-$$$)
- Nice n easy – Little Venice, Mykonos town ($$)
- Rhino – Mykonos Town (street food)
- Healthylicous – Mykonos Town ($$)
- Casa Dolce – Epar.Od. Mikonou, ($$)
- Appaloosa – Mykonos Town ($$)
- Captain’s – Little Venice, Mykonos town ($$-$$$)
- Indian Palace – Paradise Beach ($$)
What to Do:
Beaches
- Tropicana – Paradise Beach: You are able to rent beach chairs and cabanas, purchase massages on the beach, food and beverages served beachside, table service or in the food court. Soft music plays until 4pm – which is when the beach party starts and goes on until 1am. The public bus service drops you right outside the entrance and there is also a parking lot if needed. The water taxi boat will drop you off right at Tropicana beachside.
- Paradise Beach Club – Paradise Beach: A farther walk from the bus stop, it has the same atmosphere as Tropicana Beach Club but is just not as well known and more low key. There is also a beach party that starts in mid-afternoon, and the water taxi boat taxi will drop you off right at Tropicana section of the beach.
- Paraga Beach – You are able to rent chairs at Santanna, Kulua, or more towards the end of the beach where there is Tassos Taverna. SantAnna and Kulua can be very expensive. All beach clubs have food and beverage service and it can be accessed by water taxi boat or parking upon the hill.
- Plati Glialos – Good for relaxation and swimming. Food and beverage service at all chair and umbrella rentals (must book in advance as it is a very crowded area)
- Psarou Beach – Walk through Nammos Village and end up at the beach club. Sun beds and chairs are pricey, but you can rent regular chairs and umbrellas for cheap right next to the club. Food and beverage are served at the club and there is a restaurant for sit-down service. I do not recommend the cheaper service as the food is over-priced and underwhelming.
- Super Paradise Beach Club – Farthest beach from town but also a great place to sit in the sun and relax. Beach Party starts in the afternoon and goes until late night. You can walk uphill to Jackie-O for restaurant service, but there is also food and beverage service on the beach. There is parking and is also accessible by water taxi boat.
Activities
- Mykonos Town Highlights: Shop in Mykonos town (preferably in early evening or night as it can be very hot walking around), visit and walk the streets of Little Venice, Visit the Windmills, walk and eat in Old Mykonos Town and visit Panagia Paraportiani Church
- Shop in Nammos Village
- Scuba Diving at Paradise Beach
- Rent ATVs and explore the island
- Half Day Tour to Delos Island
- Catamaran or sail cruise around the Island
Nightlife
Mykonos Town: The best place to bar hop all around town, every turn you take you can find a bar for cocktails or to dance. Here are some of my favorites and additional tips:
- Scandinavian Bar: The most popular and affordable bar in the town. Has multiple levels and plays great music to dance to. You will find a stripper pole inside that tourists will try and dance on. I always make sure to visit here!
- Jackie’O: The best gay bar in town, a great atmosphere and music played. Usually at a specific time between 9-11pm they have a drag performance. It is associated with the Jackie’O LGBTQ club located at Super Paradise Beach.
- Negrita: Located in Little Venice, I put this on my list because it exploded on Tiktok and is a fun atmosphere, but is overly expensive (there is a minimum requirement for a table service if you have a group). There are other great bars next door or on the same strip to visit and have just as much fun!
- 180 Rooftop Bar: great for sunsets and a casual evening out. Located at the top of Mykonos Old Town that has the most beautiful view of the sunset! Unfortunately, they are closed for the Spring Summer 2025 season.
- VOID: One of the newer clubs in Mykonos Town, where you will find world-renowned DJs playing. If you can’t make it out to Cavo Paradiso on your trip, this is a great alternative!
- Galleriki: Great place to watch the sunset and grab drinks in Little Venice. One of the most spectacular sunsets in Greece.
- Tropicana Beach Party: I stayed in Paradise Beach just for this beach party. The music is great, the drinks are reasonable, there is food at your finger-tips until the place closes at 1am. You can walk around, dance, order bottle service at the bar or table service at their picnic sized tables. If you are looking for a fun beach party to last you throughout the night with people from all around the world, this is the place to be.
- Cavo Paradiso: The nightclub to go to in Mykonos. You can find some of the most popular DJ’s playing there almost everyday of the week from Alesso, Diplo, Tiesto, John Summit and Fisher. This is one place I do not miss every time I visit Mykonos. You can buy tickets online (for a cheaper price) and at the door if it is not sold out.
- SantAnna Beach Club: Another Beach/Pool Party that isa little less crazy than the Tropicana, but still fun to experience. The entrance fee, pool beds and table service are on the pricier side. You will also find famous DJs and Hip Artists at this club. Giannis Antetokounmpo aka The Greek Freak, has been spotted here many times when he visits Mykonos.
- Scorpios: Probably the most talked about club in Mykonos. As you may have heard it can get expensive, but if you book dinner or drinks right before 8pm you will already have access to the party. Sundays at 8pm are the “sunset rituals” where prices are the highest (10k euro for table service), so be aware of the prices. Make sure you book a reservation in advance because this spot will fill up quickly!
Transportation:
Getting To Mykonos
Airplane-I have traveled to Mykonos by both ferry and airplane from Athens, but when If flew by plane it was for convenience and to save time. If you are cut short on island time and don’t mind spending money, I would suggest taking a flight from Athens to Mykonos. The airport in Mykonos is central on the island and easy to get to and from. There are flights coming in from multiple cities in Europe or Athens. If you are traveling from the US or a farther country and you have to fly into Athens, I suggest flying in early morning or the night before as you can be short on time.
Ferry- If you’re looking to save money and enjoy a ride in the Aegean Sea, you can take a Ferry or Fast Ferry from two of Athens’ ports: Pireus Harbor or Rafina. All ferry tickets can be booked on seajets.com and is easy to use. (Please note: all ferry times are in military time) Another website I have booked a ferry ticket on is directferries.com, but I suggest booking right from the source if it is your first time. The Fast Ferry takes about 2 ½ to 3 hours to travel and the regular ferry takes about 4 ½ to five hours. Although it may take longer to get to Mykonos, this is a great time to learn about the other islands the ferry stops at, (and get a quick preview of their port) as well as catch up on some sleep. This is another way we plan our trips to Greece because we knew it was a fast and efficient way to see other islands. All ferries have a food stand to purchase bakery dishes, sandwiches, snacks, coffee, beverages and even alcohol (my go to is a Tiropita and Cappuccino Freddo every time I’m aboard). Depending on the weather, you can go to the top deck of the ferry to get some fresh air, (or for a smoke break) and check out the port the boat is docked in for a moment before departing to the next island. I will warn that they don’t call the cluster of islands “The Cyclades” for nothing as sometimes the water can get a little rough. If you are prone to motion sickness or don’t like a rocky boat, then a flight to Mykonos is right for you! Once you get to Mykonos try to have your hotel pick you up from the Airport or take a taxi to your accommodation.
While in Mykonos
Public Transportation – Lucky for tourists, it is easy to get around Mykonos via public transportation during the day and until 12am at night. You can hop on a public bus at almost every major beach stop in Mykonos from the main town. If you are coming in by Ferry or Cruise ship, there is a Ferry Taxi Boat that will take you from the port to different stops around the island. Bus times are posted outside the main station in Mykonos town, as well as at the ticket booth. Fares are very inexpensive compared to taxis or private car services.
Taxi/Uber – The only downfall of the island is the taxi service, and there being no Uber/Lyft in Mykonos! In fact, it is actually very hard to hail a taxi especially during the nighttime. Since the pandemic, the amount of taxi drivers in Mykonos has dwindled and very few taxi services are willing to be in service, especially for a night out. I suggest getting a private car service or scheduling taxi’s for pick up if you plan on spending a night out, or even for day trips if you are not renting a car, ATV or scooter. This has saved me a lot of stress knowing I had ride home especially since we didn’t stay in the main part of town. If you are staying in a hotel, they should be able to help you schedule taxi pickups and drop offs. If you can book a private car service and it is within your budget, I highly recommend that was well.
Renting Cars/ ATVs / Scooters – Other than public transportation, this is the second easiest way to get around the island, but I will warn one of the most dangerous, especially at night. I have rented ATVs many times (shout out to Adonis at Tropicana) but have never risked driving at night as it is very dark and the island consists of many cliffs with winding roads. The same goes for scooters, although I know many people that have rented an ATV or scooter and have been fine. It is a great, easy way to get around the island during the day and there are many Petrol stops along your journey for a refill. We rented a car once, which was also dangerous considering many of the roads are very narrow and there are very few lights illuminating paths during the evening. Overall, use the rentals for the day and spend a little more money on a taxi or private transportation at night to be safe. Many locals will warn you about the drunk drivers in Mykonos. Most hospitalizations and deaths in Mykonos are due to tourist drinking and driving. If you are renting a vehicle, please drink responsibly and drive safely!
Water taxi boat – When you are lounging at any of the beaches from Ornos to Elia village, you will notice that small boat loaded with people hopping on and off to access the beach. This is fisherman boat turned taxi and the most inexpensive way to travel to different beaches on the south side of the island. I take it almost every year to visit some of the neighboring beaches especially since Paradise beach is the middle stop of the route. The driver’s take cash only and it will cost you five to ten euro or a twenty-euro day pass per person. The water taxi will stop at the following beaches starting from first to last: Ornos, Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Argrari, and Elia. The first taxi begins its journey from Ornos Beach at 10am and the latest departure is from Elia beach around 17:45 (5:45pm). Usually, the captain will be screaming which beach they will be departing to so you can assure you are on the right boat.
Although filled with tourist and being the most expensive island in Greece, Mykonos is always at the top of my list of must visit islands. Between the crystal blue waters, incredible beach parties, raving nightlife, and beautiful winding roads of the main town, my heart will always be in Mykonos. Hope to see you there soon!
With Love,
Mykonos
