Mykonos is a dream destination for many people. Nestled in the middle of the Mediterranean and surrounded by azure waters, there is something for every kind of traveler on Mykonos, the most popular of the Greek islands. From the history buff to the shopaholic, the beach bum to the foodie, there’s a destination for everyone who visits. Here are some of the best things to do on your next trip to Mykonos.
The Best Things to do on Mykonos
Matogianni Street
If you are staying in one of the many Villas in Mykonos, ask the owner for recommendations on the best places to shop and eat – they will likely recommend starting on Matogianni Street.
Matogianni Street runs north to south through Mykonos town with small alleys running off it. This is really where it all happens on Mykonos. During the day, you can pass the time by ambling along the street and stopping into some of the many chic boutiques, souvenir shops, and jewelry shops.
When the hunger pangs hit, there are many local tavernas that dot the street, each offering up authentic fare. The prices tend to be somewhat more reasonable here in the heart of the town than further out, since many locals eat and shop in the area as well.
Old Harbour
Catch the SeaBus from the new port at Tourlos and disembark at the marble quays of the Old Harbour. On the east side are the arcades of the Town Hall dating from the 1700s, in front of which you’ll spot the scenic little church of Agios Nikolaos with its blue dome.
The harbour is home to many bars and restaurants. Roaming the side streets will unearth a string of boutiques and pretty souvenir shops, set alongside the small churches of Agia Eleni and Agios Kirykos.
Delos
From the Old Harbour, you can set off for one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, Delos. Located just a few kilometers southwest from Mykonos, Delos and its excavations have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In Greek mythology, Delos is the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis and Apollo. A thousand years before that, the island was already venerated as a holy sanctuary. There are many individual sites to discover on Delos, from the Doric Temple of the Delians, to the Minoan Fountain and the 7th century BC Temple of the Lions. Also intriguing are the mosaics of the market and the theatre areas.
There are also more Hellenistic mosaics on show at the House of Dionysos, the House of the Trident, House of the Lake, and House of the Dolphins and the House of Masks.
Delos Archaeological Museum
After 30 years of excavations, the French School at Delos needed somewhere to house its discoveries and so, the Delos Archaeological Museum was born in 1904. The archaeological digs have been ongoing for 145 years and consequently, the museum has had to be extended numerous times to accommodate everything they have found. Take some time to browse the museum – the oldest findings here include pottery dating back an astonishing 3,500 years.
Alefkandra (Little Venice)
Along the western protrusion of the Old Harbour lies a meandering strip of little alleys. This area is located along the water, hence the nickname “Little Venice.” Restaurants line the waterside and are a little less than a meter above the sea.
The buildings have bay windows charmingly painted in blues and greens. The westerly aspect gives Little Venice unbeatable sunsets, so be sure to arrive before dusk to enjoy the area to the fullest.
Panagia Paraportiani Church
In the Kastro neighborhood just north of Little Venice is the marvelous church of Panagia Paraportiani. Its four separate churches were built over two centuries, with a fifth church eventually built on top. The highest church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Panagia) and is easily distinguished because of its dome.
The oldest church, Agios Anargyros, began construction in 1425 while the four remaining churches were built in the 16th and 17th centuries. The white lines of the churches provide a stark contrast to the blues of the endless seas and skies of the island making it a popular scenic area for photos with visitors.
To Sum Up
Mykonos is an island destination that has proven to be very popular over the last 50 years, and for good reason. There is something for every kind of visitor here, from those interested in history and Greek mythology to those interested in taking in the views of the sea and sky while sipping wine and sampling the local cuisine.
We’ve only scratched the surface here – there are many more things to do on Mykonos that warrant making it your next vacation destination.
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