The sophisticated Greek island of Mykonos, located within the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea, has become a popular European holiday hot spot over recent years and is known for its lavish resorts, hedonistic party vibe, great food and drink scene and trendy beach clubs.
Enjoying a remarkable year-round climate that makes it a great choice anywhere from April to October, it’s awash with history, quaint white-washed towns and sandy beaches, and is also easily accessible from most major UK airports, so it’s easy to see why tourists continue to flock here on an annual basis.
If you’re considering spending a sun-soaked break here in 2024, then you might be wondering how to ensure you get the most out of the experience, so here, we take a look at the best the island has to offer and share a few lesser-known tips that will help to guarantee an enjoyable and thoroughly memorable experience.
The top Mykonos sights
There’s no denying that Mykonos is best known for its Instagrammability, but its rich history is also a big hit with tourists and there are plenty of worthwhile sights to see and places to visit to get a feel for how life was here in times gone by.
The monastery of Panagia Tourliani, which dates all the way back to 1542, is at the top of the list and this white-washed church and monastery features a grand dome and religious museum where you can take a break from the heat of the summer sun and peruse a range of paintings and artifacts.
The Panagia Paraportiani chapel (constructed in the 15th century) can be found in the pretty town of Kastros, overlooking the sea, and consists of five small churches built on top of and beside one another. The church of Agios Efstathios is at the heart of the complex, and together, they make for an interesting sight.
The ruins of Gyzi Castle, which sit on a hilltop above the town of Ano Mera, are the remnants of the castle that was built during the rule of the Gyzi family; a noble Venetian family ruling the Cyclades during medieval times, to protect the island from pirates and enemy attacks. The Mykonos Agricultural Museum is also worth a visit and is centred around the island’s famous stonework windmill. It’s outdoors, and offers great sunset views over the ocean if you visit at the right time of day.
Do bear in mind that some of these locations may offer specific visiting hours, so be sure to check them in advance so that you can plan your schedule accordingly.
Mykonos beaches
Of course, one of the major reasons to visit Mykonos during the summer months is its beaches. The island is home to some of the finest beaches in the Aegean Sea, each offering something different. Paradise Beach, renowned for its vibrant party scene, is the place to be for those seeking lively nightlife and beachside fun. Adjacent to it, you’ll find Super Paradise Beach, which combines natural beauty with a spirited atmosphere and attracts a diverse crowd.
If you’re looking for somewhere to really relax and unwind then head to Elia Beach for an expansive stretch of golden sand, crystalline waters that are perfect for swimming, and an all-round laid-back vibe. Elia is also one of the best places to stay in Mykonos as it’s home to a number of leading luxury resorts, according to travel website Adventourely.com. Psarou Beach is another favourite and is frequented by celebrities, so for luxury with upscale beach clubs and fine dining options, head here.
There’s also the more secluded and less commercialised Agios Sostis Beach, and Ornos Beach, which caters to families and water sports enthusiasts, with calm waters and plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars.
Exploring the surrounding islands
If you’re looking to explore a little further afield once you’ve exhausted all of the sights and sounds of Mykonos, then nearby Delos Island is easily accessible by ferry from the old port town of Mykonos in around 30 minutes.
The Greeks believed that this island possessed mythological properties claiming that the gods Apollo and Artemis were born here. For a more luxurious way to experience it, why not charter a yacht in Greece so that you can sail the sights in style? If you’re tempted then it’s wise to book well in advance, but it’s well worth it as you’ll be able to access hidden coves and sections of coastline that mainstream ferry services do not offer, all on your own time and schedule.
When to visit
Mykonos is a great place to visit at any time of year, but for warm sunny weather, visit between April and October. If you’re averse to intense heat and crowds then you might want to avoid the summer months and head there during shoulder seasons instead – the late spring or early autumn both offer more comfortable temperatures and the island takes on a more relaxed, laid-back vibe.
