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This Island Is a Magnet for Jet-setters and Artists — But It Still Feels Like a Classic Greek Village at Heart

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The best things to do in Mykonos include visiting the Windmills of Mykonos, going partying, and relaxing at Paradise Beach. Mykonos is one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, and with good reason. Imagine breathtaking beaches, traditional Cycladic architecture, luxury resorts, and a vibrant nightlife.

When not exploring Mykonos Town or Little Venice, you’ll swim in turquoise waters and discover historic landmarks like the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. To help us create this list, we looked into traveler reviews and expert recommendations.

Highlights at a Glance

Here are three popular places to stay in Mykonos:

  • Luxury Hotel in Mykonos: Bluetopia Suites offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, optional terraces or balconies, bathrobes, and slippers, all within a short walk to Mykonos Old Port and the Archaeological Museum.
  • Mid-Range Hotel in Mykonos: Galation offers air-conditioned aparthotel units with private bathrooms and kettles—some featuring terraces and sea views—and is just a short walk from the city centre, Megali Ammos Beach, Agia Anna Beach, and Mykonos Windmills, with car rental available.
  • Budget Hotel in Mykonos: Vougli View Mykonos provides family rooms with sea views, air conditioning, private bathrooms with showers, and balconies featuring outdoor dining areas and garden views, along with an on-site bar and quick access to local spots like Megali Ammos Beach, Korfos Beach, and Mykonos Windmills, with Mykonos Airport only 1 km away.
  • Visit the Windmills of Mykonos – This is one of the island’s most iconic attractions.
  • Explore Mykonos Town – The perfect place to admire traditional architecture and buy souvenirs.
  • Relax at Paradise Beach – One of Mykonos’ best beaches.

Swipe and Vote: See What Travelers Recommend

Planning a Mykonos trip? Which of these must-dos would you ditch your sunscreen for?

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Walk Around Mykonos Castle © Warren LeMay - CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Walk Around Mykonos Castle 1/5
Most Beautiful Islands in Greece Mykonos © zgphotography Adobe Stock 84739035 - This Island Is a Magnet for Jet-setters and Artists — But It Still Feels Like a Classic Greek Village at Heart © zgphotography / Adobe Stock
Explore Mykonos Town 2/5
Best Places To Visit for Beaches Each Month September Mykonos © Freesurf Adobe Stock Photo 448780604 - This Island Is a Magnet for Jet-setters and Artists — But It Still Feels Like a Classic Greek Village at Heart © Freesurf / Adobe Stock
Relax at Paradise Beach 3/5
Greek Islands That Have Airports Mykonos © Martin M303 / Adobe Stock
Visit the Windmills of Mykonos 4/5
Best Things To Do in Mykonos Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani © Lucian Bolca / Adobe Stock
Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani 5/5

Results

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Walk Around Mykonos Castle 1
Walk Around Mykonos Castle
5 7
Most Beautiful Islands in Greece Mykonos © zgphotography Adobe Stock 84739035 150x150 - This Island Is a Magnet for Jet-setters and Artists — But It Still Feels Like a Classic Greek Village at Heart 2
Explore Mykonos Town
8 4
Best Places To Visit for Beaches Each Month September Mykonos © Freesurf Adobe Stock Photo 448780604 150x150 - This Island Is a Magnet for Jet-setters and Artists — But It Still Feels Like a Classic Greek Village at Heart 3
Relax at Paradise Beach
8 4
Greek Islands That Have Airports Mykonos 4
Visit the Windmills of Mykonos
9 3
Best Things To Do in Mykonos Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani 5
Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani
5 7

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Visit the Windmills of Mykonos

Greek Islands That Have Airports Mykonos
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The Windmills of Mykonos are one of the most famous tourist attractions on the island. Mykonos is currently home to 16 windmills, and several of them can be found in Mykonos Town, also known as Chora. While there are windmills dotted around the town, the main attraction is seven windmills that stand together on a hill above Chora.

Most of the windmills in Mykonos Town were built by the Venetians in the 16th century. They have a traditional whitewashed design, a thatched roof, and red blades. They were once used to mill wheat. 

Not only are the windmills a fascinating sight, but they’re also in an excellent location. From the windmills, you can enjoy magnificent coastal and town views. The sunset views are awe-inspiring.

  • Visit Kounelas Fish Tavern: After your visit, head to Kounelas Fish Tavern, a highly-rated seafood spot near Old Port in Chora. Their freshly grilled sea bream is exceptional.
  • Plan Your Sunset Viewing: For the best experience, arrive at Kato Mili Windmills at least 30 minutes before sunset to grab a good spot.

Read Also: Medieval Cities and Towns in Greece

Explore Mykonos Town

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Exploring Mykonos Town is one of the most exciting things to do in Mykonos. Mykonos Town offers travelers traditional architecture, narrow streets lined with authentic shops, high-end boutiques, and attractions. For example, the Windmills of Mykonos are situated in Mykonos Town.

Furthermore, the town is jam-packed with Greek restaurants, bars, and places to party. The best way to explore Chora is to get lost down the cobblestone streets while admiring the breathtaking architecture. One place you don’t want to miss is the waterfront, particularly the Old Port area.

Here, you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the water, pop into souvenir shops, and enjoy traditional food in one of the many restaurants. Other notable attractions include the Manto Mavrogenous Statue, Boni’s Windmill, and Negrita Mykonos.

  • Dine at Niko’s Taverna: Located near the Old Port, Niko’s Taverna serves exceptional Greek dishes like grilled octopus and moussaka.
  • Get Lost in the Narrow Streets: Part of Chora’s charm is wandering through its labyrinth of streets. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden shops like Mytho Jewelry, offering handcrafted Greek jewelry.

Read Also: Traditional Greek Foods To Try in Greece

Relax at Paradise Beach

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Relaxing at Paradise Beach is one of the most popular things to do in Mykonos. This long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water offers travelers an escape from the daily grind. You’ll likely spend your time at the beach sunbathing on one of the loungers, floating in the sea, and enjoying cocktails from one of the beach bars.

That sounds perfect. Alternatively, you can participate in watersports activities if you want more action. Super Paradise Watersports offers many watersport activities, such as parasailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. 

Another draw to Paradise Beach is Paradise Beach Club, a lively beachfront hub with live DJs, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails.

  • Try Drinks at Tropicana Beach Bar: Tropicana Beach Bar, next to Paradise Beach, is perfect for a more laid-back drink. Don’t miss their fresh fruit cocktails like the signature watermelon mojito.
  • Sunbathing and Swimming: Lounger rentals typically start at 27 USD per day.

Read Also: Cheap Beach Getaways in Greece

Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Photograph the Church of Panagia Paraportiani
© Lucian Bolca / Adobe Stock

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is one of the most fascinating things to see in Mykonos. Situated in Mykonos Town, you can find this gorgeous structure in Chora’s Kastro district. Interestingly, the church consists of five individual whitewashed churches. 

Four churches are at ground level, while the other has been built above them. They were constructed between the 14th and 17th centuries. The oldest church is Agios Anargyros, built in the 14th century. 

Aside from the stunning traditional architecture, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani is in a gorgeous location alongside the sea. If you stand on the church’s northeast side, you can photograph the church with the turquoise water in the background. 

  • Nearby Café for a Break: Stop by Kastro’s Restaurant, a short walk from the church with stunning sea views and delicious Greek dishes like fresh shrimp saganaki.
  • Pair Your Visit with Little Venice: The church is near Little Venice, making it easy to combine both destinations. Grab a drink at Caprice of Mykonos later.

Read Also: Instagrammable Places in Europe

Walk Around Mykonos Castle

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Walk Around Mykonos Castle
© Warren LeMay – CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Steps away from the Church of Panagia Paraportiani are the ruins of Mykonos Castle. Mykonos Castle was constructed in the 13th century by the Venetians. It was placed on a small hill to provide a panoramic sea view and protect locals. 

Until the 17th century, the castle stood proudly by the sea, boasting tall stone walls and defensive turrets. Sadly, today, not much of the castle remains. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent place to visit.

At Mykonos Castle, you can admire the remains of one of Mykonos’ most historic landmarks, walking through the old ruins. Better yet, you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the sea and the Windmills of Mykonos.

  • Where to Eat Nearby: Stop by Mrs. Lena’s Pies for authentic handmade Greek pies. Their spinach and cheese pie is a standout!
  • Combine with Panagia Paraportiani: Since the Church of Panagia Paraportiani is right next to the castle ruins, plan to visit both landmarks together.

Read Also: Beautiful Castles in Greece

Enjoy the Views From Armenistis Lighthouse

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Enjoy the Views From Armenistis Lighthouse
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If you’re searching for the best views in Mykonos, we recommend heading to Armenistis Lighthouse. The Armenistis Lighthouse was built in 1891. It stands 62 feet (19 meters) tall.

Armenistis Lighthouse sits atop a tall seaside hill. Therefore, you can expect second-to-none sea views. Unsurprisingly, the lighthouse is a popular place to watch the sunset.

To get to the lighthouse, hire a car and make the journey yourself or book a private transfer/taxi. The journey from Mykonos Town to the lighthouse only takes 15 minutes.

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  • Bring Snacks and Drinks: There aren’t any kiosks or cafes near the lighthouse, so bring some water, snacks, or even a bottle of wine.
  • Visit in the Evening for Sunset: Arrive about 30–45 minutes before sunset to claim a good vantage point.

Read Also: Hidden Gems in Greece

Party the Night Away

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Party the Night Away DJ
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One of the main reasons tourists travel to Mykonos is to party. The island, especially Mykonos Town, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The island has something for you, whether you enjoy live music, DJ sets, or raves. 

In Mykonos Town, you’ll find plenty of nightclubs and bars. One of the most popular is Negrita Mykonos, where you can enjoy wild DJ sets and boozy cocktails. You’ll also find a lively atmosphere between Matogianni and Enoplon Dinameon Streets, Wake Bar Mykonos Matogianni being a popular spot.

Away from Mykonos Town, Paradise Beach Club is one of your best options. Voted the world’s 14th best club, this beachfront venue hosts international DJs and epic parties.

  • Start Earlier for Sunset Bars: Arrive at Negrita in Little Venice or other sunset bars like Caprice Bar for a sundowner experience before transitioning to clubs.
  • Dress to Impress: Mykonos nightlife has a chic vibe, so opt for elegant outfits.

Read Also: Most Beautiful Cities in Greece

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
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Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is one of the most enjoyable things for history lovers to do in Mykonos. Established in 1902, this museum is dedicated to the findings from the Purification Pit. For those who don’t know, the Purification Pit was a hole that contained various objects that date back to 426 BC.

The pit was unearthed on the island of Rheneia in 1898 by D. Stavropoulos. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos displays the excavations’ most impressive findings, including 8th-century BC pottery, statues, jewelry, and stone inscriptions. 

The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is open from Wednesday to Monday from 9:00 to 16:00. Entrance tickets cost €5 ($5.50).

  • Combine With Nearby Attractions: The museum is within walking distance of Mykonos Town (Chora), so pair your visit with a stroll through Little Venice or a photo stop at the nearby Church of Panagia Paraportiani.
  • Dine at Nautilus Mykonos: Located just an 8-minute walk from the museum, Nautilus Mykonos is a fantastic spot with a cozy atmosphere and fresh, handmade dishes. Try their Seafood Orzo or the Grilled Octopus.

Read Also: Budget-Friendly Cities in Greece

Go On a Boat Tour

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Go On a Boat Tour Yacht
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One of the most entertaining ways to explore Mykonos is by boat. On a boat trip around Mykonos, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery in style, learn about the island from a guide, and relax. Luckily, there are many highly-rated boat tours to pick from in Mykonos.

Take this Delos and Rehnia full-day tour, for example. On this tour, which leaves from Agios Ioannis Diakoftis, you’ll travel to Delos and Rehnia by yacht. The tour includes a delicious BBQ lunch, swimming and snorkeling time, and an expert guide.

You can also purchase alcoholic beverages during the tour. Alternatively, you could opt for this sunset cruise, which offers exceptional views of Mykonos Town and the Windmills of Mykonos, snacks, and drinks.

  • Meeting Point for Delos Tour: Make your way to Agios Ioannis Diakoftis Port, about 15 minutes by car from Mykonos Town. If you’re driving, free parking is available near the port.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, a towel, and a light jacket for evening cruises.

Read Also: Surreal Places in Greece

Pay the Monastery of Tourliani a Visit

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The Monastery of Tourliani is one of Mykonos’ most significant structures. Built-in the 16th century, this iconic building is considered the island’s most important monastery. It’s situated approximately 15 minutes drive from Mykonos Town in central Mykonos. 

You can easily reach the monastery by car or public transport. If you decide to take public transport, take the bus from Fabrika to Ano Mera. The monastery is only a few minutes walk from the bus stop.

The Monastery of Tourliani has a traditional whitewashed exterior, a red dome, and a bell tower. Inside, the monastery features dazzling frescoes and elegant decorations. The Monastery of Tourliani is open daily from 9:00 until 13:00 and from 15:30 until 19:00.

  • Combine With Local Dining: After your visit, have lunch at Vangelis Taverna in Ano Mera’s main square, just a 3-minute walk from the monastery. This family-run spot serves traditional Mykonian dishes like rooster cooked in wine sauce and louza (Mykonian cured meat).
  • Dress Modestly: As the Monastery of Tourliani is an active place of worship, wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) to show respect.

Read Also: Beautiful Beaches in Greece

Sample Local Wines at Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm

Epic Adventures for Couples in Europe_Wine Tasting in Bordeaux, France
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Sampling local wines at Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm is one of the most unique things to do in Mykonos. Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm is a historic vineyard and farm situated in Ano Mera. The vineyard prides itself on introducing visitors to traditional winemaking and farming. 

On the vineyards wine and farm tour, you can escape the buzz of Mykonos’s party streets and enjoy authentic wines and a farm-to-table dining experience. During the tour, you’ll sample the vineyard’s beautiful wines, including Mandilari and Malagouzia.

During the tour, you’ll also learn how the vines are grown and how the wines are made. You can also meet the farm’s resident animals, including goats and donkeys. What’s not to like?

  • Book in Advance: The vineyard gets busy during the summer, so book your wine-tasting or farm tour on their official website to secure your spot.
  • Plan for Lunch: Enjoy a hearty farm-to-table meal at the vineyard after your tasting. Their local cheese platter and Mykonian sausage make excellent pairings with the wines.

Read Also: Fairytale Villages in Greece

Step Back in Time at Lena’s House Folk Museum

Best Things To Do in Mykonos Step Back in Time at Lena's House Folk Museum
© Warren LeMay – CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Lena’s House Folk Museum is one of Mykonos’s most interesting tourist attractions. Once owned by war hero Captain Nicholaos Sourmelis, this museum is a Mykonian townhouse from the 19th century. Its name comes from one of the house’s last inhabitants, Lena Skrivanou.

Quite brilliantly, the house reveals what life was like for the people of Mykonos in the 19th century. It transports visitors back in time with authentic furnishings and objects, including traditional clothing, living room furniture, and pictures. Walking around the museum is a fantastic way to learn about Mykonos’ history. 

Lena’s House Museum is open Monday to Saturday from 17:00 until 21:00. The entrance fee is €2 ($2.20).

  • Combine With Dinner Nearby: After exploring the museum, walk 5 minutes to M-Eating, a refined Greek restaurant offering traditional dishes with a modern twist. Their grilled sea bass fillet and pork tenderloin are amazing.
  • Photography Note: While photography is allowed, turn off your flash out of respect for the antique items.

Read Also: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece

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