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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Cyclades, Greece

Iconic Landmarks

These sites represent the very essence of Mykonos and should be on every visitor's itinerary.

Windmills (Kato Mili): These seven iconic windmills stand proudly on a hill overlooking Mykonos Town (Chora) and Little Venice. Dating back to the 16th century, they once played an important role in the island's economy, milling wheat using the strong Aegean winds. Today, they are a prominent feature of the Mykonian landscape, holding spectacular sunset views. Access is free. Arrive early for sunset to secure a good spot, as this area gets crowded. Be respectful of any private property around the windmills.

Must-Visit Sites

  • Little Venice: A picturesque quarter of Mykonos Town, characterized by charming old houses built directly on the sea. These houses feature colorful wooden balconies that hang over the water, reminiscent of the famous Italian city. This area was once home to wealthy merchants and sea captains. Access is free. Best explored on foot, wandering through its narrow lanes. Many cafes and bars line the waterfront, holding seats with views. Ideal for evening drinks, especially at sunset. It can get very crowded, so consider visiting in the early morning for a quieter experience and better photos.
  • Panagia Paraportiani Church: One of the most photographed churches in Greece, in Mykonos Town near the Kastro (old castle area). It is a complex of five small churches built into one, with a striking asymmetrical, whitewashed architectural style that blends seamlessly with the Cycladic aesthetic. Its unique form makes it a masterpiece of vernacular architecture. Access is free. Generally open during daylight hours. Visit in the early morning for fewer crowds and the best light for photography. Dress modestly if you enter (shoulders and knees covered).

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Major Museums

  • Archaeological Museum of Mykonos: Houses findings from the ancient necropolis of Mykonos, as well as artifacts from Delos. Collections include pottery, Hellenistic sculptures. Location: Near the Old Port in Mykonos Town. Hours: Typically 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM (closed Tuesdays). Fees: Approximately €6-€8.
  • Folklore Museum (Mykonos): Across several traditional houses in the Kastro area. Displays collections of furniture, textiles, Byzantine icons, old tools, Mykonian costumes, and historical documents. Glimpse into traditional Mykonian life. Location: Mykonos Town. Hours: Varies seasonally, often open in the afternoons. Fees: Small entrance fee or donation.
  • Aegean Maritime Museum: Features models of various ships and boats, nautical instruments, maps, and historical documents related to Mykonos's rich maritime history. Location: Mykonos Town. Hours: Varies seasonally. Fees: Small entrance fee.

Cultural & Art Spaces

  • Art Galleries and Exhibition Spaces: Mykonos Town has numerous small art galleries and exhibition spaces, showing contemporary Greek and international art. Many local artists display their work.
  • Cultural Centers and Performance Venues: Some cultural centers or larger hotels occasionally host performances of traditional Greek music, dance, or theatrical productions, especially during the summer.
  • Special Exhibits and Programming: During peak season, some museums or galleries may feature special exhibits. Check their websites or local event guides for details.

Mykonos holds cultural richness beyond its party reputation.

Historical Sites

  • Delos Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Ancient Greeks believed it to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. It served as a major sanctuary and commercial port. Ruins include temples, theaters, houses with mosaics. Accessible by boat tour from Mykonos Old Port. Go early to avoid heat and crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and carry water.
  • Mykonos Town (Chora): The town itself is a living historical district. Its Cycladic architecture, with whitewashed cubic houses and narrow labyrinthine alleys, evolved over centuries. This design served defensive purposes and now presents a delightful maze for exploration.
  • Monastery of Panagia Tourliani: Located in Ano Mera village. This 18th-century monastery features an impressive carved wooden iconostasis and Byzantine icons. The courtyard holds a quiet escape. Dress modestly to enter.
  • Memorial Sites: The scattered windmills in Mykonos Town serve as a monument to the island's agricultural past and ingenuity.

Natural Attractions

  • Parks and Gardens:

    Mykonos not known for extensive natural parks. Its landscape is more arid and rocky. Some hotels and private villas feature well-tended gardens.

  • Scenic Viewpoints and Natural Wonders:

    The Windmills Area (panoramic views). Armenistis Lighthouse (northwestern tip, stunning views of Aegean Sea and Tinos, dramatic sunsets, rugged natural experience). Coastal Roads (breathtaking views of sea and landscape).

  • Wildlife Viewing Areas:

    Mykonos not significant land-based wildlife viewing. Marine life observed during snorkeling or diving.

  • Geological Features:

    The island's granite composition and rolling hills are its main geological features, characteristic of the Cycladic archipelago.

Natural Attractions Continued

Mykonos is world-renowned for its diverse beaches, catering to every preference.

Beaches, Lakes, and Waterways

Organized & Popular Beaches South Coast

  • Paradise Beach

    A party beach with lively beach clubs, DJs, and a youthful, energetic atmosphere.

  • Psarou Beach

    An exclusive, luxurious beach bay. Home to Nammos, it attracts celebrities and superyachts. The water is calm and clear.

  • Platis Gialos Beach

    A family-friendly, long, organized sandy beach with many hotels, restaurants, and water sports. It is a hub for water taxis to other south beaches.

Organized & Popular Beaches Continued

  • Ornos Beach

    A sheltered, family-friendly bay with calm waters, good restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. Good for wind protection.

  • Elia Beach

    One of the longest and most beautiful sandy beaches, holding a mix of organized sections with amenities and quieter areas. It is popular with LGBTQ+ visitors.

Agios Sostis Beach

A beautiful, untouched, unorganized beach on the north side. It has no sunbeds or umbrellas but is famous for Kiki's Tavern (known for its grilled food and lack of electricity).

Fokos Beach

A secluded, natural beach on the north side, holding a peaceful escape. It has one traditional taverna.

Panormos Beach

A large, scenic bay on the north side, with some organized parts but also quieter areas, holding a more laid-back atmosphere.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the well-known spots to discover Mykonos's quieter, equally charming side.

  • Armenistis Lighthouse: Located on the northwestern tip of the island, this historic lighthouse provides stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, the neighboring island of Tinos, and dramatic sunsets. It holds a wilder, more rugged natural experience. It takes private transport to reach.
  • Ano Mera Village: The only inland village on Mykonos, holding a glimpse into a more traditional Mykonian life, away from the bustling coast. Visit the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and enjoy a meal at a traditional taverna in the village square. It holds a local experience.
  • Fokos Beach & Taverna Fokos: A relatively secluded and unorganized beach on the north side, holding a peaceful escape. Taverna Fokos is a simple, charming restaurant known for its fresh, home-cooked food. Many locals frequent quieter northern beaches like Agios Sostis and Fokos for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Planning Your Sightseeing

When planning your Mykonos sightseeing, remember that much of Mykonos Town is pedestrian-only. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring its labyrinthine alleys.

For historical sites like Delos, consider going early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Always check opening hours and fees for museums and archaeological sites, as these can vary by season.

Explore Mykonos Town

Wander through the narrow streets of Chora to discover charming shops, cafes, and hidden chapels.

Beach Hopping

Use water taxis or rental vehicles to visit Mykonos's diverse beaches, from lively party spots to tranquil coves.

Capture Sunsets

Head to the Windmills, Little Venice, or Armenistis Lighthouse for iconic Mykonos sunset views.

Additional Sightseeing Tips

Visit Delos Early

To avoid the intense heat and larger crowds, plan your trip to the ancient island of Delos in the early morning.

Book Delos Tours

Comfortable Footwear

Mykonos Town features uneven cobblestone streets; comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for exploration.

Modest Dress for Churches

When visiting churches or monasteries, covering shoulders and knees is appropriate.

Consider a Rental

For exploring remote beaches or the Armenistis Lighthouse, a car or ATV provides freedom.

Stay Hydrated

Especially during summer, carry water as you explore, as shade might be limited at some sites.

Archaeological Museum Highlights

Discover ancient artifacts from Mykonos and Delos, providing context for the region's rich history.

Exhibits

  • Ancient pottery and ceramics
  • Hellenistic sculptures
  • Grave stelae and everyday objects

Folklore Museum Insights

Experience traditional Mykonian life through collections of historical items and costumes.

Exhibition Categories

  • Furniture and textiles
  • Byzantine icons and documents
  • Old tools and Mykonian costumes
  • Glimpse into daily islander activities

Delos Visit Advisory

Delos has very little shade. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water for your visit to the archaeological site.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must due to the extensive ruins.

More Sightseeing Notes

Beyond the main highlights, Mykonos offers a variety of experiences for the curious visitor.

Aegean Maritime Museum Focus

Explore Mykonos's deep connection to the sea through nautical exhibits.

Exhibition Details

  • Models of various ships and boats
  • Nautical instruments and maps
  • Historical documents of maritime history

Cultural Performance Venues

Discover opportunities to experience traditional Greek music and dance.

Performance Types

  • Live Greek music and bouzouki
  • Traditional Greek dance shows
  • Occasional theatrical productions

Hidden Gem: Armenistis Lighthouse

Located on the northwestern tip, this historic lighthouse dates to 1891. It provides stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and neighboring Tinos, especially at sunset. It is a wilder, more rugged natural experience.

Features

  • Dramatic coastal views
  • Exceptional sunset spot
  • Access with private transport

A peaceful contrast to bustling areas.

Hidden Gem: Ano Mera Village

The only inland village on Mykonos, it is a glimpse into a more traditional Mykonian life, away from the bustling coast. Visit the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and enjoy a meal at a traditional taverna in the village square.

Village Attractions

  • Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
  • Authentic village tavernas

Is a local, peaceful experience.

Hidden Gem: Fokos Beach & Taverna

A relatively secluded and unorganized beach on the north side, holding a peaceful escape. Taverna Fokos is a simple, charming restaurant known for its fresh, home-cooked food. Many locals frequent quieter northern beaches.

Beach Characteristics

  • Tranquil and unorganized
  • Traditional Taverna Fokos
  • Local favorite for relaxation

An authentic, quiet coastal retreat.

Photography Tips

Mykonos Town Charm

Capture the iconic whitewashed alleys and colorful bougainvillea for quintessential Mykonos shots.

Little Venice Vibrancy

Photograph the houses over the water, especially at golden hour, to capture reflections.

Windmills & Sunsets

The Windmills are perfect for classic sunset photography with panoramic views of Chora.

Local Insights

Consider exploring the lesser-known northern beaches like Agios Sostis and Fokos, often favored by locals for their serene atmosphere away from the crowds. These spots present a different side of Mykonos.