Mykonos holiday travel

Known for its barhopping scene, the popular Aegean Island of Mykonos has more to offer than its extravagant nightlife. From its stylish cultural centre, boasting museums and art galleries, to its undeveloped north coast with its beautiful beaches, the Greek atmosphere is captured throughout the island.

Where to stay – hotels

Mykonos consists of two towns, Hora and Ano Mera. The larger of the two, Hora, is packed with young partygoers during high season. Most of the popular hotels in Mykonos are located here. Four miles from Hora is Ano Mera, which also offers a handful of accommodations. Secure your rooms in advance by booking a hotel in Mykonos online.

Several exclusive hotels are located along the north coast, although the area must be reached by car and is a lot less developed. Unknown to the tourists, this quieter area is noted as Mykonos’ hidden gem. Dotted with great diving spots and swimming beaches, most of the Mykonos hotels are situated by the beach. A selection of Mykonos hotels can be found by clicking here.

Hotels in Mykonos vary from resorts to guesthouses, and tend to provide the full amenities such as swimming pools, beachfront access, water sports, and meals on site. A hotel in Mykonos can often organize boat trips and island tours.

What to do

The government decree in Mykonos made Hora the architectural landmark it is today by prohibiting traffic in its streets. Therefore, the only way to explore this town is by walking along the cobbled streets and alleys. Displaying some of the finest Delos pottery, the Archaeological Museum is a good starting point, as well as the ferry quay.

With its high, columned Venetian houses built up to the water’s edge, the district known as Little Venice is a photographer’s paradise. As the sun sets behind whitewashed buildings with quaint wooden balconies over the sea, this picture postcard view can be enjoyed at a local café or chic bar.

Alternatively, one can sit by the ‘three windmills’ and enjoy the stunning view of Little Venice itself.

Apart from the bars and taverns in Hora, Mykonos is filled with ideal swimming beaches. It is one of the only islands in the Aegean Sea that permits scuba diving. Courses are offered at several schools in Hora.

In Ano Mera, the more traditional town of the two, there is the Monastery of Panayia Tourliani, which displays a stunning marble bell tower with detailed carvings. For a relaxing place to sit and contemplate, the 12th century monastery of Paleokastro is a worthwhile stop.

What to see – by car hire

Car hire in Mykonos is one of the most convenient ways to get around the island. With excellent beaches spread throughout the island, a car offers a convenient mode of transportation. Mykonos car hire can be arranged online and includes well known names such as Avis and Hertz.

The south shore beaches have the best sand, views and wind protection, though they can get busy during peak season. Paradise and Super Paradise are known as the party beaches, with its loud music until early in the morning. One should hire a car to enjoy this stretch of beach.

The north coast has yet to be discovered by mass tourists and is only accessible by car, providing a quieter and less developed scenery. Easily reached by hire car, these particularly scenic areas are best explored during a day trip. More on hire cars for Mykonos.

The fishing village of Kalafatis, once the port of the ancient fortress of Mykonos that dominated the small peninsula to the west, is one of the longest beaches on the island. Further east, accessible by a good road, lies Lia, which is known for its fine sand and clear water.