The magical island of Mykonos has all the ingredients needed for an unforgettable holiday experience – sun, sea, sand … and so much more.
Whether you crave a fun-packed adventure with plenty of nightlife and water sports action, or a laid-back time, relaxing and soaking up the glorious sunshine – this enchanting getaway can tick all the boxes.
Jaw-dropping sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, pulsating bars and nightclubs, top-class restaurants, luxury hotels and up-market boutiques and shops are among the attractions in this awe-inspiring Greek island.
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, wonderful water parks and other major attractions for children, chalky white buildings adorned with tumbling bougainvillea, plus a rich history and cultural heritage, what is there not to like about Mykonos?
There’s never a dull moment in this fabulous island which is part of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea – it’s a magnet for couples, families and groups of friends wishing to create precious holiday memories which will last a lifetime.
Mykonos is a dream come true for sun-lovers with more than 300 days a year of glorious sunshine which is perfect for getting out and about to discover what the island has to offer.
The hottest month is July with temperatures reaching above 30°C. Summer temperatures between June and September average between 23°C and 26°C. Night-time temperatures during this period hover between a pleasant 18°C and 21°C. There is very little rain in the summer months.
Autumn temperatures are still very appealing with an average of 22°C in October and there’s also plenty of sun in spring with an average temperature of around 19°C in May.
Winters are mild and wet on the island, with an average temperature in December of around 13°C. Most of the rainfall occurs in the winter months but there is still around 6 to 7 hours of daily sunshine.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to golden sandy beaches in Mykonos where you can enjoy hours of fun and relaxation with your partner, family or friends.
From long sandy expanses and inviting shallow waters which are ideal for families to secluded bays and coves for romantic couples seeking a romantic stroll hand in hand, the island has it all.
Many beaches have an impressive range of water sports including paragliding, jet-skiing and wakeboarding, while others are perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling to discover the marine life beneath the waves.
Ornos Beach is a great choice for families with delightful golden sand and calm, shallow waters. It is perfect for traditional sandcastle-building sessions and beach games, with plenty of bars and restaurants for a relaxing meal and drink.
Elia Beach is truly beautiful with wonderful sands, plenty of water sports action, excellent restaurants and charming tavernas, while Agios Sostis is the place to escape the crowds, with its serenity and tranquillity.
Super Paradise near Mykonos Town is a lively party beach which is a big hit with music lovers, while the gusty winds at Megali Ammos Beach make it a popular choice with windsurfers.
Psarou is a mega-trendy beach where celebrities moor their yachts - there's plenty of water sports activity going and you'll find many fine dining restaurants for a gourmet meal.
Other beaches of note on the island include Kalafatis, Platis Gialos, Paraga and Kalo Livadi.
Mykonos has something to excite the palate of every visitor to this enchanting island – you’ll discover a fantastic range of traditional dishes and local specialities to savour.
An abundance of eating places, from modern gourmet restaurants to laid-back coastal tavernas, means you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere for a delicious meal and a few drinks.
Fresh seafood dishes are a popular choice, with octopus, squid, red mullet and spiny lobster among the mouth-watering options available.
Louza consists of prime pork which has been dried out under the sun, before being cooked with salt, pepper and various spices, while Kremidopita is a scrumptious onion pie made with filo pastry and tirovolia cheese.
Galaktobureko is a fabulous Greek dessert of semolina custard baked in filo pastry and amygdalota are traditional almond cookies which will tantalise your taste buds.
Assyrtiko is a popular local wine which is great for accompanying the island's tasty dishes and soumada is a delightful rosewater and almond flavoured non-alcoholic drink.
A range of festivals, feasts and major events take place all-year round in Mykonos. Here are a few of the most popular ones you may come across during your stay there.
Mykonos Summer Festival
This is a lively annual event featuring a myriad of thrilling activities including open-air concerts, theatrical shows and art exhibitions. Renowned artists from around the globe make an appearance at this popular festival.
Balosia
This festival is organised to celebrate the start of the nautical period on Epiphany day on January 6. It gets underway with the blessing of the water when a cross is thrown into the sea, followed by music and dancing.
Harvest Festival
This is a popular family event which is held in September and includes a celebration of local arts, crafts and customs.
The descent of Virgin Mary’s icon
This traditional religious procession takes place on the first Saturday of Lent when the icon of the Virgin Mary is carried from the Monastery of Tourliani to Mykonos Town.
Organic animal farm
This is a great day out for all the family which introduces you to the island’s traditional farming methods. Children will love meeting the livestock, including goats, and you’ll get to learn all about organic farming.
Mykonos Raceland
Put on your racing helmet for an exciting go-karting experience on a winding 750-metre circuit in Ano Mera. This thrilling attraction caters for all levels of ability, from absolute beginners to advanced drivers.
Mountain Biking
The island’s undulating hills and beautiful coastline make it perfect for a family bike-riding adventure. Yummy Pedals is a reputable bike tour company which organises scenic rides to the beach and hidden island gems, with a delicious Greek meal at the end of your trip.
Mykonos Town
No holiday on the island is complete without a visit to Mykonos Town with its quaint narrow streets, windmills, churches, shops and imposing whitewashed houses. It also boasts vibrant nightlife, bustling bars and excellent restaurants.
Kayaking Tour
There are some fabulous guided kayaking tours around the island which take you to many secluded hideaways which are normally out of bounds. The calm Aegean waters make this activity ideal for beginners.
Panagia Tourliani Monastery
This magnificent attraction in Ano Mera dates back to 1542 and features a grand dome and a religious museum. It is a remarkable example of Cycladic architecture with many interior attractions including fire bells, vestments and incredible woodwork.
Mykonos Windmills
These are truly iconic 16th century landmarks on the island, with the main group of them to be found on a hill in Mykonos Town. Originally used for milling grain, there are 16 remaining windmills and one of them, Bonis Windmill, is open to the public as a museum.
Delos Island
A group trip to the tiny island of Delos is highly recommended. You’ll be wowed by the beautiful scenery, the ruins of ancient temples and the captivating archaeological museum in this charming island which is the mythological birthplace of Apollo.
Jeep safari
Take to a 4x4 for an exciting off-road jeep safari which lets you take parts of Mykonos which are off the beaten track. You’ll get to explore the island’s remote coastlines and rustic interior, and a tasty lunch is normally included on most safari excursions.
Little Venice
This picturesque attraction really is like a mini version of Venice, with its quaint whitewashed buildings on the water’s edge with charming overhanging balconies. You’ll discover lively bars, restaurants and clubs here which look spectacular at sunset.
Armenistis Lighthouse
This working lighthouse high above the water was built in 1891 to guide sea-faring traffic after a disaster in 1887 when a steam ship sank off the coast of the island. The lighthouse flashes a signal every 10 seconds.
Mykonos Town Old Port
This attraction is home to small boats and local fishermen. It gives you a real insight into life in years gone by with its delightful maze of alleyways, hospitable residents, quaint cafes and charming little shops.