Mykonos belongs to a cluster of Islands called the Cyclades. It is one of the smallest Cylcadic Islands and is located very close to some of the most beautiful islands in the region, namely Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. Mykonos however is known as the “isle of wind” so don’t be too surprised when the wind picks up.

Mykonos is known worldwide. It appeals to every type of person and for every type of occasion. It attracts people from all over the world because of its cosmopolitan atmosphere, its rich history and of course its fabulous beaches. Greece is known for its crystal clear waters and great beaches and Mykonos is an island that boasts some of the most beautiful and well known ones in the Cyclades.

Mykonos Town has stayed true to the old Cycladic architectural style with its narrow stone streets which are decorated by the whitewashed houses and their colourful doors. A wander around these little streets will stick with you as you pass the Geraiums, clematis and bougainvillea which when in blossom fill the streets with beautiful purple blooms, pouring over the white washed walls.

Every year people come to Mykonos from all over the world, for different reasons and from different backgrounds. Each year A-listers, millionaires, families, college students and backpackers visit the island, to is discover what their summer in Mykonos will be about.

So whether you are looking for a relaxing time on the beach, a cultural experience or getting lost in the meandering stone streets and staying up until all hours of the morning, Mykonos is the place to go.

This island is also very accessible, with ferry boats leaving from Piraeus taking between 3 and 5 hours, depending on whether you take a faster ferry or a more direct one. You can always opt for leaving from Rafina, which takes around 2.5 hours. You could also travel by air. Either fly over from Athens or if you are lucky get a direct charter flight straight to the island.

Mykonos got its name from the son of the King of Delos, however, Greek Mythology has a much more "romantic" explanation. It is said that the island was named in the honour of the Olympian God Apollo's grandson.

It has been discovered that this fantastic island has ties with settlements of Tribes dating as far back as 3000 BC.

It later became a supply island for Delos, a very small neighbouring Island that was largely populated (approx. 20,000-30,000 inhabitants on a tiny surface of hardly 5km in length and 1.3 km in width) due to its sacred ties. Myths say that the Olympian Gods Appollo and Artemis were born on Delos (children of Zeus & Letos). Mykonos became a target for the ever growing pirate population of the Mediterranean,because of its success providing both agricultural and Maritime trade. Which explains the small passage ways within the main town, as they were used to out run, hide form the pirates.

Delos

It would be a real shame if you didn't take a little boat across to Delos to look at the beautiful Island. It has so much history and has been kept in immaculate condition. Don't forget that this tiny little island was the birth place and residence of certain Olympian Gods as well as the home to thousands of people. It is a magical place and an experience that one must have. Take a little boat from Mykonos Town and go and view one of the best preserved pieces of history in its original location.

Museums

There are a number of Museums on the island, for all of you who would like to soak up some culture, before going home. The Folklore Museum: boasts a collection of ceramics, old documentation, Byzantium Icons and much more. The Aegean Maritime Museum: showing a collection of old coins, maritime maps, instruments and various other artefacts. The Archeological Museum: displaying statues, ceramic pots and artefacts dating back to 7 BC as well as items from the Trojan war. Museums are generally open from the early afternoon and some are also open in the evenings. It is always a good idea to double check the times with your Hotel or local information point.

Lighthouse

If you are up on the North west side of the Island go and have a look at the 1891 built Armenistis Lighthouse. You will have the chance to enjoy beautiful views of the sea, as well as the neighbouring Island of Tinos.

THINGS TO DO

Beaches

Organised beaches: these beaches are fully equipped with places to eat, sun beds etc. Super paradise- extremely well organised, great water sports and known for throwing a good party. Paradise- offers natural shade and is well organised. Plati Gialos- probably the busiest beach around, it is so long though that is accommodates for all the people that flock to it. Kalafatis- this beach has it all, water sports, relaxation, partying, good food. Kalo Livadi - very good beach service so if you want to be pampered this is the one for you. Korfos- good for windsurfing. Agrari & Elia- these two beaches are amongst the best in the Aegean, so why not jump onto a beautiful "kaiki" (a traditional fishing boat converted to take people to these beaches the traditional beaches) and enjoy yet another side of Mykonos.

Quieter beaches:

Houlakia- great for those that love to swim.Agios Ioannis- nice and quiet and relaxing. Agia Anna- nice and quiet and if you are in the mood to learn scuba diving this is a great spot. Ftelia- great for windsurfing and waveriding. Fukos- great for just sitting back and relaxing. Agios Sostis- you will need to take your own umbrella or a big hat. This beach is pet-friendly. We are sure once you get there the locals will help direct you towards the type of beach you want. There are so many its hard to list them all. If you are looking for a little cove just keep your eyes open, you will definitely spot a few.

Visit the Island's Mascot

A proper visit to Mykonos is never complete if you don't bump into the island's official mascot, the Pelican!  Petros the original masoct of the island was found by a fisherman. After years of walking along the streets and harbour of this stunning island his passing brought a huge amount of grief to the locals. So in honour of Pétros, they have established a long tradition of pelicans waddling around the waterfront to make everyday life that little bit more cheerful. So, don't forget to get that special photo with the successor of the famous pelican, Pétros.

Shopping

There are little boutique shops all over the island but the main ones are located in Mykonos Town. You may want to stroll down Matoyianni Street. It is lined with nice little cafes, stylish restaurants but also brand name stores as well as the little charming shops with all sorts of items you might want to pick up and take home with you.

It wont take you long to understand why Mykonos has a world known reputation for its nightlife.

A great way to begin any evening is to visit an area in the main town called "Little Venice". This is the snapshot of Mykonos that we have all seen. The untouched 18th century district, is dominated by sea captains' homes and colorful balconies. One tends to associate this side of the island with the famous Italian city, with the balconies that perch over the sea and the bare rock surface. This poetic setting of "Little Venice" is the ideal place to start the evening. Being on the waterfront with a view of the white washed windmills which are one of the most recognized trademarks of Mykonos. You can enjoy a mesmerizing late afternoon with great cocktails, relaxing music, the ever soothing sound of the sea below you and the stunning sunset to add that extra wow factor to your evening.

WHERE TO WINE AND DINE

In Mykonos town, you can enjoy your meal in picturesque settings, hidden in the maze of narrow streets. Venturing further out you can enjoy anything from rustic restaurants (located on the locals own land) to the more glamorous and trendy restaurants. With endless sea views, romantic settings and a lively atmosphere up for grabs, one can try simple Greek dishes or the gourmet food of international cuisine. The choices are numerous and diverse.

There is something on the island for every taste and every budget.

Don't forget to try some local Aegean specialties! Cover your freshly baked bread with Pepper flavoured kopanistí, a soft cheese seasoned with pepper, this is the island's gastronomic trademark. If you are Meat lover indulge yourself with some "loúzes" a pork filet with spices, also try the local sausages which are sprinkled with pepper and local oregano. If you are feeling slightly more adventurous and by the sea ask if any fresh Sea Urchins are on the menu, a delicacy enjoyed across the Mediterranean. Also don't miss out on freshly caught fish as there is nothing nicer.  To finish off your meal you can always spoil yourself two extremely good local sweets, "amigdalotá" the traditional way or in a "basket" form.