Day 1 in Mykonos

Welcome to Mykonos! Arrive at the port in Mykonos and proceed to your hotel. Should you desire, we offer private transfers where a representative will meet you at the port and transfer you to your hotel. (Click on Hotel Transportation in the Booking Process.). After check in, grab a bite to eat in one of the tavernas around Plateia Mantos Mavroyenous (taxi square) before exploring the island's main port and town, Chora.

As you stroll around the narrow alleys of Chora, be sure to visit Panagia Paraportiani. This somber white-washed church, dating back to the Byzantine era, is the most famous in Mykonos. (As an active house of worship, appropriate attire and behavior is expected). Next, stop at the Archaeological Museum, home to numerous artifacts discovered during the excavation of the island of Delos, including jewelry, vases and pottery dating back to the 25th century B.C. Then continue on to the Aegean Maritime Museum, which spotlights Mykonos' nautical past with displays of antique navigational instruments, model ships and old maps. And don't miss the museum garden, where you can see larger artifacts like anchors as well as the largest lighthouse in the Aegean.

Later, you will want to see the Mykonos Folk Museum, which is actually three separate historical houses. The main museum is located in the 18th century House of Kastro in Chora, and features Cycladic costumes, traditional musical instruments, historic paintings and old photographs. Nearby, the second building, Lena's House, is another 18th century upper class home that has been preserved. Finally, the Agricultural Museum (known as the Windmill of Boni) offers additional insight into the islands' farming history with the help of authentic tools like a waterwheel, an outdoor oven and a wine press.

At sunset, snap a photo of the four iconic windmills (kato myli) before stopping for a glass of ouzo in the historic neighborhood of Alefkandra. Afterwards, head back to Little Venice and choose a taverna with waterfront views where you can relax and enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood. On the waterfront, you may even spot one of the town's three tame pelicans, a Mykonos emblem since the 1950s!

Day 2 in Mykonos

People flock to Mykonos for two reasons: beaches and parties! So start early (while other sun-worshipers are still sleeping it off) at Paradise Beach, Mykonos' original nude beach, and kill two birds with one stone. Sunbathe on its soft sands and carouse in famous hot spots like the Tropicana Beach Bar and Cavo Paradiso Club. Paradise Club, with its gigantic swimming pool in the middle of the club, steals the show with its nightly fireworks and a wild party that lasts until midnight! On the other hand, if you're looking to relax without having to put up with rowdy crowds and nude beachgoers, skip Paradise in favor of Psarou Beach. Located northwest of Paradise Beach, Psarou's sugary sand, azure seas and quieter atmosphere make this beach popular among families and honeymooners. This beach is also known for its great windsurfing and waterskiing conditions. Alternately, Platys Gialos is Mykonos' busiest beach and water taxis to all other beaches depart from here so it's very convenient for beach-hopping.

After an afternoon of fun in the sun, make your way back to Chora for cocktails at Caprice. Caprice has been the island's sunset institution for over 25 years, with chairs lining its narrow porch overlooking Little Venice, the windmills and the sea. After sunset, return to your hotel for a quick shower and change of clothes before heading out for a bite to eat and some late night clubbing. Busy Matoyanni Street is a great place for dinner, drinks and some of the finest people watching on the island.

Later (and we mean much later), it's time to experience the real nightlife of Mykonos! Head straight for Paradise beach (take the bus from town), to either Cavo Paradiso, open nightly 2-10am or to Paradise Club, open nightly 2-6am. Both clubs are extremely popular with rotating international DJs, theme nights, huge pools and great views. If you last until closing time, you can just go for a swim and begin the day all over again!

Day 3 in Mykonos

This morning, you will want to take a tour to the Island of Delos. This Greek archaeological site, located west of Mykonos, is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the religious and political center of the Cyclades. Greek legend has it that this was the birthplace of Apollo (the god of music and light) and Artemis (the goddess of the wilderness, animals and the hunt). These days, you can wander about the ancient ruins including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Temple of the Athenians, the Doric Temple of Isis, the Minoan Fountain and the Avenue of the Lions. Also, many of the artifacts found at the site can be seen at the Archaeological Museum of Delos (closed on Mondays).

Afterwards, return to Mykonos island for a visit to gorgeous Ano Mera Village, the island's only other real town. Explore the village by foot, including the 18th century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, renowned for its intricate marble carvings and massive Italian baroque altar screen. Half a mile farther southeast you'll find what's left of the 12th century Monastery of Paleokastro. Have a late lunch at one of the many tavernas or head back to town.

This evening you'll want to take it easy so go back to your favorite place on Mykonos for a casual sunset dinner and drinks. Stroll its winding streets. Make your last night in Mykonos a memorable one!

Additional Days in Mykonos

Should you be able to spend additional days in Mykonos then be sure to pay a visit to some of its other beaches. Ornos Beach has always been popular with locals, who like its relaxed atmosphere for a family swim and beachside dining. Unfortunately, Ornos is close to the airport, so you will hear planes coming and going. Super Paradise Beach, best accessible by water taxi, is definitely the most popular beach destination among Mykonos' LGBT community; and Paranga is all the rage now with a popular taverna and an all-night dance club. Elia Beach is quite expensive and very popular for nude sunbathing, so it is not recommended for families.

Mykonos is known throughout the Aegean as one of the places for diving. If you are looking to enjoy water sports during your vacation then Kalafati Beach is one of the best places on the island that offers facilities for jet-skiing, windsurfing and more. There is also a good restaurant and bar as well as boats to take you to Dragonisi, an islet that has caves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You might even catch a glimpse of rare monk seals at the islet as its caves are reportedly a breeding ground for them.

Additionally, surfers are realizing that Greece, with her many coasts, offers clear blue waters that aren't teaming with sharks. When the north winds ravage the island, waves can swell to impressive sizes and the lack of competition provides a haven for surfers and windsurfers alike. Mykonos' north coast beaches already attract many European surfers.

Your Last Day in Mykonos

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.