Mykonos is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. It offers countless opportunities to soak in the sun and take advantage of the top-of-the-line beach conditions. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. While vacationing in Mykonos, you can dive into Greecian history, explore iconic landmarks, dine in beautiful restaurants, and more. 

If you’ve been convinced to visit this vacation hotspot by photos of the gorgeous views but aren’t sure how to fill your itinerary during your trip, we have all the information you need. We’ll walk you through all of our favorite activities and sights to see on this popular island. 

Paradise Beach

We’re guessing you were lured to Mykonos by the dreamy photos of the bright blue water and gorgeous beaches. So, to start off our list of must-see attractions in Mykonos, let’s start with Paradise Beach, one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. If you tend to prefer calmer and more peaceful shores, this destination might not be for you. 

Paradise Beach is home to some of the most popular beaches and nightclubs, which attract electrifying crowds, fun music, and fantastic food and drink options. Even if you don’t partake in the party scene yourself, it can be exciting to enjoy the lively atmosphere. 

Sink your toes in the soft sand, take a dip in the turquoise water, and admire the remarkable views while dancing to music and sipping your favorite beach cocktail. Come prepared with your favorite swimsuit, as well as a chic cover-up for the moments in and out of the water. 

Little Venice

One of the most popular spots in Mykonos, a trip to Little Venice will be filled with romance and charm. As you step into this neighborhood, you’ll be greeted with historic and elegant houses that sit on the edge of the sea, making for a totally picturesque view. As further evidence of this neighborhood’s unparalleled beauty, it’s been the home to many famous artists and is one of the most photographed neighborhoods in all of Europe!

Fill your afternoon by browsing the various art galleries and exhibitions this area is known for. Spend your evenings dining in waterside restaurants and enjoying one of the entertainment options. Sit in one of the quaint and intimate bars while sipping on a drink, or break out your dancing shoes in one of the many nightclubs. 

Be sure to visit during the day to leave enough time to explore, but stay until sunset to watch the historic houses and sea come alive with golden light. 

The Windmills

Some of the most iconic landmarks in Mykonos are the grandiose windmills that are unlike anything you’ve seen before. They’re scattered throughout the entire city, but the largest concentration of them sits in the neighborhood of Chora. 

You won’t be able to miss these iconic structures, thanks to their snow-white color, spherical shape, and pointed roof. Additionally, the wooden blades are long, thin, and connected to each other by sturdy wiring. The gusty winds of Mykonos put these windmills in motion and once powered their extraordinary agriculture system. 

While they aren’t used for any agricultural functions today, they still stand as a symbol of Mykonos’s impressive architectural and agricultural history. 

Paraportiani Church

If you’ve ever seen a postcard from Mykonos, there is a good chance you have admired the beauty of the Paraportiani Church. Sitting at the entrance to Chora, this stark white structure was built in the 1400s and is still a well-loved landmark today. While there are a handful of small white churches across the city, the Paraportiani is the most iconic. 

This church is classified as a national monument and has stood as a prime example of Cycladic architecture, which is foundational to Mykonos. The five small churches that make up this monument give it its recognizable asymmetrical structure, and the white exterior perfectly contrasts the nearby bright blue water. 

While you’re there, keep an eye out for Mykonos’s official mascot, Petros the Pelican. This beloved bird is often seen walking around the church and is considered to be a sign of good luck. 

Ano Mera

Ano Mera is the second largest and one of the oldest villages in Mykonos and offers tourists a unique experience while traveling. While the city center and many of them are consistently lively and crowded, Ano Mera offers visitors a look at the everyday life of locals. Here, you can find some peace and quiet while exploring a local tavern, cafe, and other classic landmarks. 

The Tourliani Monastery, located in Ano Mera, was built in 1542 and features a collection of historic tools and relics that are definitely worth seeing. Soak in the baroque architecture and get a close look at the antique tools and utensils, religious relics, priests’ robes, and more. 

While walking through this quiet village, you will also come across the Monastery of Paleokastro. These remains of a Byzantine castle can be found at the end of a short hike up a rocky road. The views are well worth the short hike, as you can walk by an old church, a large dovecote, and grave markers while enjoying the expansive and breathtaking views that surround you. 

Delos

Delos is the best spot in all of Greece for archaeology lovers. The only way to get to this small island is by ferry, but the views on the water make the trip feel more like a scenic tour than a means of transportation. 

Delos is home to the remains of a sanctuary to the gods Apollo and Artemis. It has an on-site museum that features the finest collection of ancient Greek sculptures and artifacts recovered from excavations on and around the island.

There are guided tours you can choose to take, usually costing less than 40 euros. These will guide you through the remarkable history of the island, excavations, and Greecian history. 

If you’re a history lover or want to feel immersed in the wonders of Greece, add a trip to Delos to your itinerary. 

Psarou Beach

Another famous beach that draws thousands of people to Mykonos every year is Psarou Beach. With its golden sand, turquoise water, and luxurious amenities, you might even be able to spot a celebrity or two in the middle of their vacation. The well-sheltered beach will protect you from any winds, and the shallow water provides the perfect environment for a relaxing swim. 

Upon arriving, you can choose from a wide collection of sunbeds and umbrellas and buy any essentials or souvenirs from the on-site shops. During the most popular seasons for tourists, you may have to join a waiting list to snag a spot on the sand, but the nightly fireworks and ocean-side parties make up for it. 

The rentals and accommodations here can be a bit pricey, so you may want to save this visit for a special occasion. However, once you go, be sure to pack your favorite bikini and your most oversized sunglasses to fit in with the crowds. 

Mykonos Folklore Museum

If you’re feeling a little too sunkissed from your beach day or want to keep exploring the rich history of Greece, spend an afternoon wandering through the Mykonos Folklore Museum. Located in Kastro, this museum has an impressive collection of antiques from the 19th century. 

Some of the highlights of the museum include ornate textiles and ceramic works, historical photographs, traditional musical instruments, and more. Visitors can also marvel at a collection of paintings and canons that have been preserved from the War for Independence of 1821. 

Stepping into this museum gives you a glimpse of what living in Greece might have looked like in the 19th century. 

The House of Fine Art

If you are still craving exposure to Greecian artifacts and art, be sure to check out the House of Fine Art. This reputable art gallery has two other locations in Los Angeles and London and works to spotlight emerging and established contemporary artists. 

The rotating exhibits that cycle through this gallery can feature paintings, photographs, sculptures, and more from Austrian, Asian, European, and North and South American artists. 

Be sure to check their events calendar before your trip so you can get insight into the current exhibit and potential events. 

Kalafati

Another breathtaking beach on the island, Kalafati, is a must-see attraction on your vacation. Totally different from the party environment of Paradise Beach or the swanky environment of Psarou Beach, Kalafati is best known for its adventure. This active beach has a long list of water sports for you to try, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. 

To surround yourself with the marine life off the coasts of the island, head to the on-site hut that rents out snorkeling and diving gear. If you want a bit of an adrenaline rush, opt for windsurfing, jet skiing, water skiing, or wakeboarding rentals. Be sure to wear a one-piece swimsuit that makes you feel secure during your trip to Kalafati, so you won’t have to worry about an accident during these water sports. 

After your adventures on the water, you can rent a sunbed and umbrella to rest and soak up the sun and rest your muscles. 

Mykonos Brewing Company

If you are a beer lover, visit Mykonos Brewing Company, one of the first and only craft breweries in Mykonos. While visiting, you can even take a guided tour to see the production process all the way from raw ingredients to finished product.

Sip on a wine-barrel-aged beer as you sit in their taproom, which offers gorgeous views of the water. While the brewery is relatively small, it is often lively with beer enthusiasts and is run by people who are passionate about creating delicious and unique beer.

Aegean Maritime Museum

Another museum that will introduce you to some of Greece’s most important historical periods is the Aegean Maritime Museum. This non-profit institution was founded in 1985 and will walk you through Greek maritime history and tradition. 

Getting a glimpse at the evolution and activities of the merchant ship and the historic region of the Aegean Sea will give you a better understanding of Greece’s significance in world affairs. 

You can get up close to models of ships, historical shipping documents, rare engravings and maps, ancient artifacts, and navigational instruments. Additionally, the museum is surrounded by a spacious green garden that features gravestones from Mykonos and Delos islands, remembering the death of sailors who died during shipwrecks or who were lost at sea. 

Platys Gialos Beach

Of course, we had to end our Mykonos guide with a look at another stunning shoreline. The Platys Gialos Beach is a fairly popular choice among tourists and locals alike due to its large size and resorts that are lined up across the sand. Additionally, the shallow and clear waters are ideal for families looking for a safe place to swim or for anyone looking for a relaxing dip in the water.

This beach has something for everyone: crystal-clear water, water sports, restaurants, bars, sunbeds, and more. This beach is sure to leave everyone feeling sunkissed and happy. 

Book the Ticket

If you have been trying to decide whether to take the leap and book flights to Mykonos, let this be your sign to do it! The gorgeous beaches, thrilling activities, and charming attractions will give you all of the rest and excitement you could ever ask for out of a vacation. 

Just be sure to go prepared with enough swimwear and accessories to last you through your many beach trips, and turn to Andie Swim when packing your suitcase. 

Sources:

Panagia Paraportiani In Mykonos | Greek City Times

Delos | UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Folklore Museum of Mykonos | Folklore Museum