Mykonos is one of the most popular holiday islands in Greece. The countless travel reports and blog articles can sometimes overwhelm you. Therefore, in our short, informative article, we present the sights that are really worthwhile on Mykonos.
1. Little Venice in Mykonos Town
The main town of the island, Mykonos Town, is almost impossible to miss or avoid, nor should you try. White houses and an excellent backdrop characterize Mykonos Town. The small district “Little Venice” is particularly worth seeing. Here, the houses were built into the sea in such a way that their balconies protrude over the water. Most of these houses are now home to restaurants that invite you to taste Greek delicacies, soak up the atmosphere and watch spectacular sunsets.
2. Armenistis Lighthouse
To the northwest, located directly on a steep slope, is the Armenistis lighthouse. It impresses with its special location and beautiful scenery.
The lighthouse was built after a shipwreck in the 18th century and it is still in use today. The platform is located at a height of 19 meters and it is open to the public. Climbing the stairs, you can see the strait between the islands of Tinos and Mykonos. There, the play of waves is a special spectacle at any time of the day and at sunset the Aegean Sea shines in special shades.
3. Windmills
If you read something about Mykonos, you will inevitably come across the picture of the five white windmills that stand directly on the coast. They are also known as “Kato Mili”. Originally, they were used for grain painting and could supply the entire island with flour. Nowadays they are no longer functional, but are maintained for their historical importance. You can easily reach the windmills from the center, walk around them and admire the many different views and impressions.
4. The village of Ano Mera
This small village in the middle of the island invites you to linger and unwind. You can reach it from Mykonos Town by bus, taxi or your rental car. Ano Mera is nestled in the hills of the island and represents traditional Greek culture. There you will find small alleys and a central village square with classic taverns, where you should definitely try the local wine and culinary classics.
The well-known and worth seeing monastic monastery of Panagia Tourliani is also located here. It was founded in 1542 and is a worthwhile excursion point.
5. Beaches
Around the island there are white sandy beaches and turquoise blue water. The best thing to do is to visit several beaches at once and experience something new every day.
If you travel as a family, you will feel very comfortable on Ornos, Agios Ioannis, Elia Beach and Agios Stefanos beach. Here the surroundings and the waves are a little calmer and more comfortable. The water slopes shallowly, so even the little ones can splash around and some restaurants and cafés offer a perfect end to the day.
For all those who have come to Mykonos for the party life, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach are worth it. They are the most famous beaches for partygoers. There are many discos, bars and relatively cheap hostels all around.
6. Neighboring island of Delos
Ferries run several times a day between Mykonos and Delos and the crossing takes only half an hour. For this reason, Delos is excellent for a day trip. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The story goes that the god Apollo and his brother Artemis were born on Delos. The Greeks built marble temples in their honor, which can be visited today. Walking around the island, you will find columns and foundations made of marble, as well as statues and mosaics. They all have historical and cultural significance for the Greek inhabitants.
7. Neighboring island of Tinos
Another worthwhile destination is the island of Tinos. It is only 40 minutes by ferry from Mykonos and is an insider tip, especially for art enthusiasts.
Some famous sculptors such as Nikiphoros Lytras and Nikolaos Gysis come from Tinos and museums have also been dedicated to them. For example, a visit to the Museum of Tinotic Artists and the Giannouli Chalepa Museum are recommended.
If you like hiking, taking photos and enjoying a magnificent view, you should not miss Mount Exomvourgo. With an altitude of 641 meters, the climb is not too hard and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama over the entire island, as well as the Aegean Sea.
Tinos is also important in Greek mythology, because according to it, the wind god Aeolus was born there.
