Mykonos

The Island of Winds

Whitewashed Glory and Windy Beauties under the Cosmopolitan Breeze of the Diva of the Aegean
Bright and airy in the daylight, charming and mysterious under the glare of the night, multicultural, romantic and lively Mykonos holds the reigns of the cosmopolitan island of Greece. Under the summer breeze of the Aegean, the island of Mykonos unfolds in front of your eyes. Less than a mile away from the cradle of the European Civilization lie the most multicultural island of Greece, if not Europe. Mykonos is the star of the summer in Greece and one of the most famous destinations of the Mediterranean. The authentic beauty of the island is revealed through its natural sceneries and the beautiful beaches of its coastline. The Cycladic architecture creates a distinctive character with a sophisticated personality. From the beautiful alley of Matoyanni and the romantic sunset in Little Venice, the ethnic evening parties in the beaches of Psarou and Super Paradise, the isolated beaches of Fokos and Ftelia, and the musical concerts with a full moon in the magical archaeological site of Delos, Mykonos literally has everything! The island of winds is a testament that fashion is timeless. However, the island of Mykonos is an island hides countless mysteries giving you the opportunity to meet the other unseen face of it, just for the ones looking for a more peaceful state of mind. The sophisticated island of Mykonos dares you to fall in love with it, as it has created a mystery maintaining a state of love with it.

 

Discover Mykonos

Best of Mykonos

The Capital of Mykonos

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Mykonos located on the west side of the island. It is a typical Cycladic village with whitewashed houses and wooden colorful doors, windows and balconies, labyrinthine alleys and charming chapels. Matoyanni is the central alley of Hora. Worth visiting the beautiful church complex of Panagia Paraportiani that has been recognized as a national cultural monument, the windmills of the island, the romantic neighborhood of Little Venice and the archaeological museum of Mykonos.

The Beach of Super Paradise

The Beach of Super Paradise is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean and the most famous homosexual beach of the country. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani stands by the sea at the entrance of the neighborhood of Kastro. It is one of the most photographed churches of Greece. The complex of this religious monument consists from five small churches built one right next to each other. The church of Agios Efstathios stands on the center surrounded from the churches of Agia Anastasia, Agios Anargiros and Agios Sozon. The church of Virgin Mary stands on top of these churches.

The Island of Delos

The Island of Delos is one of the most important archaeological, mythological and historical sites in Greece. Delos is history itself, an experience of a lifetime, a mysterious island hosting a series of monumental antiquities from the Archaic, the Classical and the Hellenistic periods on a territory used exclusively as an archaeological site. Delos is a small rocky island situated in the heart of the Aegean and the center of the Cyclades. Delos was established initially as a holy pilgrimage island, as Apollo and Artemis were born there, while it was then transformed to a political center as it was the base of the Delian League, and later on it served as a commercial harbour with luxurious houses and markets. Extensive excavations have found important archaeological artifacts that are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Delos and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

The Neighborhood of Little Venice

The Neighborhood of Little Venice is one of the most romantic neighborhoods of Mykonos located on the west side of Hora. The area has an elegant character with whitewashed houses and colorful windows situated at the edge of the sea. Quite amazing are the sunset views from Little Venice. The neighborhood evolved from the charming beach of Alefkandra extending right into the outlying area of Kastro.

Windsurfing in the Island of Winds

The prevailing winds of the area are northern winds with an occurrence rate of 38.2% followed from the northeastern winds with an occurrence rate of 16.3%. The rate of lull is relatively small reaching approximately 11.3%. The winds are neither gentle nor strong ranging from 2 to 6 on the Beaufort scale.

Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Site of Ftelia occupies an area above the beach of Ftelia. Archaeological excavations have brought to light a prehistoric settlement dating to the Neolithic Times, possibly the oldest settlement of the island. Recent excavations brought also to light a vaulted Mycenaean tomb of the 13th century BC. The tomb of Ftelia is believed to be the tomb of Ajax of the Locrians, whose body was washed on Mykonos, after having been drowned from the Olympian Gods, as he raped Cassandra at the temple of Athena. Also, the neighboring bay of Panormos is thought to be the first organized community of Mykonos.

The Castle of Gyzi lies on the hill above the village of Ano Mera. The castle was constructed in the 13th century during the domination of the Gyzi Family, a Venetian family that was ruling the Cyclades in the medieval times. The area also hosts the remnants of the ancient city of Mykonos with numerous remains including a prehistoric market, an ancient cemetery and wall fortifications. The castle of Gyzi offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Churches and Monasteries

The Chapel of Agios Nikolaos is a whitewashed chapel with a blue dome standing on the seaside promenade of Hora. The Church of Zoodohos Pigi is the cathedral of the island standing in the heart of Hora.

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani stands by the sea at the entrance of the neighborhood of Kastro. It is one of the most photographed churches of Greece. The complex of this religious monument consists from five small churches built one right next to each other. The church of Agios Efstathios stands on the center surrounded from the churches of Agia Anastasia, Agios Anargiros and Agios Sozon. The church of Virgin Mary stands on top of these churches.

The Church of Panagia Rodariou is the catholic church of the island located at the square of Alefkandra in Hora. The church was constructed in 1668 and it was renovated in 1677. The icon of Virgin Mary with Jesus between Saint Domenicus and Saint Catherine of Sienna was transferred to Mykonos from Venice in 1715. Today, there are holy services every Sunday evenings.

The Monastery of Paleokastro lies on the hill close to the village of Ano Mera. The nunnery was constructed in the 18th century. The name derives from the remnants of the castle of Gyzi, as Paleokastro means old castle in Greek. Inside the monastery, one will have the opportunity to admire numerous ecclesiastical icons and a magnificent altar. The nunnery lies in one of the greenest spots of Mykonos.

The Monastery of Panagia Tourliani lies in the village of Ano Mera. The monastery was constructed from two priests in 1542 while it was restored in 1767. Since then, the monastery became the patroness of the island. The monastery has an impressive architecture with a whitewashed exterior and a coloured dome. The churchyard is decorated with a beautiful marble fountain. Also, an impressive wooden iconostasis made from Florentine artists decorates the interior. Inside the monastery, one will have the opportunity to visit a small ecclesiastical museum with woodcarvings, embroideries, holy icons and the first bells of the monastery. On August 15, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place within the premises of the monastery.

Landmarks and Monuments

Little Venice is one of the most romantic neighborhoods of Mykonos located on the west side of Hora. The area has an elegant character with whitewashed houses and colorful windows situated at the edge of the sea. Quite amazing are the sunset views from Little Venice. The neighborhood evolved from the charming beach of Alefkandra extending right into the outlying area of Kastro.

Petros the Pelican is the official mascot of Mykonos. In 1958, a wounded pelican was found off the coast of Mykonos from the local fishermen. The pelican was nursed to health and it soon adopted the name Petros. However, the pelican was hit from a car in 1985 and failed to recover. Subsequently, three new pelicans reside around Hora.

The Lighthouse of Armenistis lies in cape Armenistis. It is an old lighthouse manufactured in 1891 standing as a mule testimony of the rich maritime history of Mykonos. The lighthouse is accessible from the road leading to Agios Stefanos.

The Windmills of Mykonos are the landmark of the island standing on the hill of Hora. In the old days, the windmills operated by wind as Mykonos is renowned for its gusty winds. Although the windmills are no longer operational, they continue to be a symbol of the long history of the island. One windmill has been converted into a museum, known as the Bonis Windmill.

Museums and Monuments

The Aegean Maritime Museum is housed in a mansion of the 19th century in Hora. The aim of the museum is to present the rich history of the maritime tradition of the country. Exhibits include ships models, historic shipping documents, rare engravings, maps and ancient tools. The garden of the museum exhibits marble findings from Delos and Mykonos referencing to shipwrecks and sailors lost in the sea.

The Agricultural Museum of Mykonos is housed in an old windmill in Hora. Known as the Boni Windmill, the museum is a division of the folklore museum exhibiting a rich collection of agricultural tools used for the production of farm products. Main exhibits include a traditional threshing machine, a wine press, a water wheel and a stone water tank. Every second or third Sunday of September, the feast of grape harvest takes place in the museum.

The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is one of the most important museums of the Cyclades located in Hora. The museum was erected with the intention of preserving numerous findings from the island of Rhenia at the expense of the Ministry of Education. Exhibits include vases of the Hellenistic period, impressive marble statues and clay figurines.

The Folklore Museum of Mykonos is located in the neighborhood of Kastro. Exhibits include vintage furniture, ceramic works, historical photographs, ancient tools, embroideries, utensils and traditional musical instruments. Also, the museum displayed a fine collection of paintings along with the canons from the War of Independence of 1821.

The House of Lena is a traditional house of the 19th century located in the area of Tria Pigadia in Hora. Named after the last owner of the house namely Lena Skrivanou, the house contains a spacious drawing room, two bedrooms and two courtyards along with a rich collection of antique furnishings.

The Municipal Library of Mykonos is housed in an old mansion of the Mavrogenis family in the square of Agia Kyriaki. Mando Mavrogenous was one of the most important heroines of the War of Independence of 1821 who spent all her fortune for the Hellenic revolution. The library houses 6.000 volumes of literature and history mostly in the Greek language. The books were a donation of the local historian namely Ioannis Meletopoulos, as well as other donators.

Promenades & Villages

Ano Mera is a charming village located on the center of the island. It is one of the oldest villages of Mykonos with traditional whitewashed houses and a picturesque cobblestone square. The area has a calm atmosphere ideal for those looking for tranquility and seclusion. From there, one can easily access the beautiful beaches of Elia, Kalo Livadi and Kalafatis. Worth visiting sights include the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani along with the Monastery of Paleokastro.

Hora is the capital of Mykonos located on the west side of the island. It is a typical Cycladic village with whitewashed houses and wooden colorful doors, windows and balconies, labyrinthine alleys and charming chapels. Matoyanni is the central alley of Hora. Worth visiting the beautiful church complex of Panagia Paraportiani that has been recognized as a national cultural monument, the windmills of the island, the romantic neighborhood of Little Venice and the archaeological museum of Mykonos.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Houlakia, South Mykonos

Spot: Church of Panagia Paraportiani, West Mykonos

Spot: Little Venice, Hora of Mykonos

Excursions

Boat Trip: The Island of Delos is one of the most important archaeological, mythological and historical sites in Greece. Delos is history itself, an experience of a lifetime, a mysterious island hosting a series of monumental antiquities from the Archaic, the Classical and the Hellenistic periods on a territory used exclusively as an archaeological site. Delos is a small rocky island situated in the heart of the Aegean and the center of the Cyclades. Delos was established initially as a holy pilgrimage island, as Apollo and Artemis were born there, while it was then transformed to a political center as it was the base of the Delian League, and later on it served as a commercial harbour with luxurious houses and markets. Extensive excavations have found important archaeological artifacts that are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Delos and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

Boat Trip: The Island of Naxos is a genuine island of the Cyclades. Elegant and Venetian when she wants, traditional and folklore when she changes her mood, intense summery when she lies in the endless beaches, lively and stunning when observed from the village and endlessly romantic when posing in the dusk, Naxos is a genuine Cycladic island. One could say, perhaps, that Naxos is an entire universe by herself!  Being the largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos has managed to keep alive the long history of this place with impressive archaeological monuments, mountainous and traditional villages and an endless coastline full of beaches. Your first impression will be reflected from the imposing temple of Portara on the islet of Palatia lying opposite of one of the most historical medieval villages of Greece, witnessing the glorious history of the once powerful duchy of the archipelago. Literally, Naxos has it all! Beaches with unimaginable beautiful turquoise waters and white sand dunes shaded from imposing cultural monuments and important wetlands. Naxos hides mysterious discoveries and surprizes you probably did not expect to find in the middle of the Aegean. Byzantine monuments and Venetian towers, traditional settleements and imposing waterfalls, important wetlands and magnificent beaches, wild landscapes and cedar forests are just a glimpse of the universe of Naxos observed from the highest peak in the Cyclades. Naxos is blessed from nature, as it is the most fertile island of the Cyclades; maybe it was also blessed from God Dionysus and Goddess Demeter!

Boat Trip: the Island of Paros desires to introduce to the travellers her exceptional identity. Shining like a star from the glittering shadows of the whitish marble, Paros is an island whose mysterious shine is rehabilitated from the passage of time. A glimpse of white in the deep blue of the Aegean is the main vestige of the long civilization that influenced the culture of Paros. Five thousands years ago, the island of Paros started to be inhabited remaining vigorous over the centuries. Distinguished for its magnetism, Paros desires to introduce to the travellers her exceptional identity. Characterized as one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades, Paros is ready to give you everything you need. The brightest jewel of the Cyclades is one of the most distinctive islands of the Cyclades embellished with whitewashed houses, blue domed chapels, narrow cobblestone labyrinthine alleys, turquoise beaches, mountainous villages and cultural monuments of great history crowned from the warm and hospitable Parians. Beauty and simplicity shines in this island, just like Paros radiates the sunlight of the Aegean reflecting on the magnificence of the deep blue. Touch and feel the energy of this island and you will not regret it! Paros ignites the imagination of the travellers since the prehistoric times; however, no one managed to conquer her! Are you ready, at least, to get to know her?

Boat Trip: The Island of Syros is an irresistible combination of disparate elements of Cycladic minimalism, medieval charm and neoclassical romanticism blend in the heart of the Cyclades. The beautiful duchess with the two worlds and the mysterious atmosphere is unfolding in front of your eyes in order to challenge you to travel with her. Syros would definitely be characterized as the noble island as evident from her impressive architecture, her cultural wealth and the perfect coexistence of two Christian denominations. Despite the proud history of Syros, the island has adopted an anonymity preserving the genuineness of her heritage. . Even if you have visited all the islands of the Aegean, Hermoupolis will definitely impress you, as the splendors of hers are not concealed. Behind every corner of the colorful city, another mysterious surprise is hiding with flowery balconies, colorful doors and hidden stairways.

Boat Trip: the Island of Tinos is recognized as the largest pilgrimage center in the country. The noble island of Tinos can also be characterized as an unexplored island of mysterious beauties in terms of the verdant nature, the authentic villages, the ancient heritage, the folklore and the rich culinary traditions of her land. Indeed the endless sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of Tinos act as a magnet for travellers, however the gems of the island are the authentic villages. Mostly mountainous, forgotten in another era but with surprisingly verdant landscapes that do not resemble in any way the barren sceneries of the Cyclades. The fascination of Tinos lies in the hinterland and the nature, the preserved villages with the stone cells and the dovecotes, the ancient rural streets that lead in unexpected places. The mystery of the island lies in the art of painters and sculptors while the charm lies in the taste of the excellent products of Tinos. Above all, the magic of Tinos lies in the faith of the people, the pilgrims and the prayers. Except from the inexhaustible beauty of the island, Tinos is a place of spirit and enlightenment. With a long tradition in architecture, folklore art and sculpture, Tinos has managed to combine art, natural beauty and tradition in a very special way that will touch you spiritually!

Activities

Diving: The varied coastline of Mykonos offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. The reefs of Paradise and Super Paradise, the rocky formations of Dragonisi Isle, the shipwreck of Anna II, the rocks of Ornos and the Prassonisia Isles are some of the most interesting diving spots. Diving centers operate on the beaches of Kalafatis, Lia, Paradise and Psarou.

Horse Riding: Lovers of horse riding can enjoy galloping on horseback in the beautiful landscapes of Mykonos. There is a horse riding center in Hora that organizes excursions in the hinterland of the island.

Kitesurfing: Known as the island of the winds, Mykonos is one of the best destinations to practice kitesurfing. The beaches of Ftelia and Korfos are ideal for kitesurfing lovers. The beaches also have kitesurfing centers.

Off Road: Driving is one of the best ways to discover the mysterious beauties of Mykonos and explore the inaccessible areas of the island. If you are an enthusiast of off road driving, start from the beach of Houlakia that leads to the lighthouse of Armenistis; then continue to the area of Marathi, the beach of Panormos and the bay of Agios Sostis. From there, you can continue to the village of Ano Mera and visit the remnants of the castle of Gyzi. Afterwards, you can continue along the south coast and drive past to the beaches of Kalafatis and Kalo Livadi through the verdant area of Halara.

Sailing: The exquisite beaches of Mykonos and of the islets of Agios Georgios, Htapodia, Rinia and Tragonisi are ideal for exploration by boat. There is a marina three mile north of Hora. Other ideal anchorages include the bays of Agia Anna, Kato Livadi, Ornos, Panormos and Platis Gialos.

Walking: Although the island does not offer sign posted hiking trails, those who desire to discover the exciting hinterland of Mykonos can follow the road from the airport to Petinaros for the stunning views. Another beautiful route includes the one that starts from the square of Ano Mera that leads to Panagia Lemonitra overlooking the bay of Ftelia.

Windsurfing: Known as the island of the winds, Mykonos is one of the best destinations to practice windsurfing. The beaches of Ftelia, Kalafatis and Korfos are ideal for windsurfing lovers. The beaches also have windsurfing centers.

Beaches

Agrari is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the most tranquil beaches of Mykonos that is partially organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports and a nice beach bar.

Agios Ioannis is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Mykonos with panoramic views to the island of Delos. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and beach bars.

Agios Sostis is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Mykonos ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Agios Stefanos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northwest side of the island. Due to its close proximity to Hora, it is one of the most crowded beaches of Mykonos. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Divounia is a lovely fishing settlement located on the southeast side of the island. It is one of the most secluded beaches of Mykonos ideal for those looking for tranquility. The two taverns of the area serve delicious fresh fish.

Elia is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is the longest sandy beach of Mykonos with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Fokos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is one of the most secluded beaches of Mykonos, even in high season. The beach is ideal for nature lovers looking for tranquility. There is a tavern on the beach.

Ftelia is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Mykonos ideal for the lovers of windsurfing. The beach is also ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. There are a beach bar and a tavern on the two sides of Ftelia.

Houlakia is a long pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the southeast side of the island. The entire area is a protected area of natural environment; so remember to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints! The beach is divided into two parts; the left side has a small sandy area with sunbeds, umbrellas and a tavern while the one can follow the footpath of the right side to admire the pebbled carpet overlooking the island of Delos.

Kalafatis is a long sandy bay with blue water located on the south side of the island. The beach is ideal for lovers of windsurfing. It is an organized beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, a beach bar and taverns.

Kalo Livadi is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the longest beaches of Mykonos, quite popular for the facilities and the beach parties. The surrounding landscape creates exotic sceneries. Kalo Livadi is an organized beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Kapari is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Mykonos ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Ornos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. Due to its close proximity to Hora, it is one of the most crowded beaches of Mykonos. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Panormos is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Mykonos ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. The beach has a beach bar restaurant.

Paradise is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars. A fully organized camping site is located behind the beach. Cavo Paradiso is the large famous complex of Mykonos hosting numerous parties every summer. By night, the beach transforms into a huge club with music and cocktails.

Paraga are two sandy beaches with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. The south beach is calm while the north beach is fully organized with sunbeds, umbrellas and beach bars.

Platis Gialos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Mykonos with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Psarou is one of the most famous beaches of Mykonos located on the southwest side of the island. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Super Paradise is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches of the country as well as it is the most famous homosexual beach of the country. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktails Inspirations

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Coffee Corners

Aroma: Coffee, Hora

Gelarte: Ice Cream, Hora

Glikopolio: Pastries, Ano Mera

Marenga: Breakfast & Coffee, Mykonos

Kazarma: Coffee, Hora

Ode: Coffee, Mykonos

Ornos Bakery: Pastres & more, Ornos

Gastronomic Delights

Alemagou: Greek Cuisine, Ftelia

Avli Thodori: Greek Cuisine, Platis Gialos

Bandanna: Greek Cuisine, Kalafatis

Casa di Giorgio: Italian Cuisine, Hora

Ftelia: Greek Cuisine, Ftelia

Fokos Taverna: Greek Cuisine, Fokos

Interni: Mediterranean Cuisine, Hora

Kiki: Greek Cuisine, Agios Sostis

Kounelas: Seafood, Hora

Nikos Tavern: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Nikolas: Seafood, Agia Anna Paraga

Oti Apomeine: Greek Cuisine, Ano Mera

Markos: Seafood, Divounia

Maerio: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Nammos: Mediterranean Cuisine, Psarou

Panormos: Mediterranean Cuisine, Panormos

Sea Satin: Seafood, Hora

Solymar: Greek Cuisine, Kalo Livadi

Tzimis: Souvlaki, Hora

Cocktails Inspirations

Astra: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Caprice: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Cavo Paradiso: Parties & More, Paradise Beach

Galleraki: Cocktails and Drinks, Little Venice

Guzel: Cocktails and Drinks, Little Venice

Scarpa: Cocktails and Drinks, Little Venice

Scorpio: Dance and Drinks, Paradise Beach

Void: Cocktails and Drinks, Lakka

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include kopanisti, tyrovolia and xinotiro cheeses, louza pork fillet, and amigdalota almond sweet.

The local specialties of the island include homemade sausages flavored with olives, pepper and oregano, onion pie made with tyrovolia cheese, siglino, a dish of local pork, louzes, a pork dish made with spices, pepper and oregano, kakavia fish soup, and fresh sea urchins with vinegar.

Events & Festivals

Every summer, the Summer Festival of Mykonos takes place in the island. The festival hosts numerous exciting events including open air musical concerts, theatrical performances and art exhibitions.

Every 30th of June, the Fishermen Feast takes place in the island.

Every August, the XLSIOR International Gay Festival of Mykonos takes place in the island of Mykonos.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place in the monastery of Panagia Tourliani.

Every 2nd or 3rd Sunday of September, the Feast of Grape Harvest takes place in the agricultural museum of Mykonos.

History & Mythology

Mythology

According to mythology, Hercules was fighting with the Giants and his task was to kill them. He threw them in the sea and the Giants were petrified turning into huge rocks, and Mykonos was created.

History

Archaeological evidence show that Mykonos was first inhabited from the Cares followed from the Phoenicians, Egyptians, Minoans and Ionians since the Neolithic times. Ancient Mykonos developed a great culture. In 1207, Mykonos came under the domination of the Venetians, just like the other Cyclades. The Gyzi dynasty took the authority of the entire island and constructed the castle with the intention of protecting it from invasions. One century later, Georgios Gizi conceded Mykonos to Venice. In 1537, the island came under the Ottoman Empire. However, the inhabitants of Mykonos provided important help to the War of Independence as they had great sailors. In more details, Mykonos provided to the revolution 22 ships, 500 crewmembers and 140 canons. Mando Mavrogenous was the heroic revolutionary figure of Mykonos who financed the revolution, helped in the organization of fights, participated in the secret revolutionary organization of Society of Friends and managed to organize revolts against the Ottoman in 1822. After the liberation of the country, the economy of Mykonos was destroyed as it lost all of its ships and managed to reinforce its commercial power using the textile, the most important source of income, which was exported. Mykonos reached its peak in the early 1960s, when it became the favorite shelter of the high society after the excavations of the archaeological site of Delos.

Travel & Transport

By Air: Mykonos has an international airport with scheduled flights on an annual basis.  From April to October, there are charter flights from numerous countries of Europe. Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat (71 and 86 Nautical Miles): Mykonos is accessible by boat from the harbors of Rafina and Piraeus. The journey usually lasts from three to five hours. Mykonos is also connected with the islands of Paros, Naxos, Syros and Tinos amongst others. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

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Mysterious Greece Tips

Agrotourism in Mykonos?

Are you interested in organic farming based on the value of tradition, wisdom of nature and good music for growing healthy grapes of Mykonos? Discover more information from the Vineyard of Vioma!

Best Time to Visit Mykonos

As Mykonos is the most cosmopolitan island of the country, you should be aware that it gets really crowded during the entire summer season. Choose spring and fall if you are one of those ones who want to explore the other face of Mykonos!

Dedicate a Day to the Cradle of Western Civilization

The Island of Delos is one of the most important archaeological, mythological and historical sites in Greece. Delos is history itself, an experience of a lifetime, a mysterious island hosting a series of monumental antiquities from the Archaic, the Classical and the Hellenistic periods on a territory used exclusively as an archaeological site. Delos is a small rocky island situated in the heart of the Aegean and the center of the Cyclades. Delos was established initially as a holy pilgrimage island, as Apollo and Artemis were born there, while it was then transformed to a political center as it was the base of the Delian League, and later on it served as a commercial harbour with luxurious houses and markets. Extensive excavations have found important archaeological artifacts that are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Delos and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

Emerald, Sapphire and Turquoise Waters

Mykonos is blessed with some of the finest beaches of the Mediterranean. Agios Sostis, Kalo Livadi, Ftelia, Lia and Super Paradise are amongst the most beautiful ones. However, if you are looking for secluded beaches, visit Pano and Kato Tigani, Myrsini and Lia!

Enjoying a Cocktail in Little Venice

Little Venice s one of the most romantic neighborhoods of Mykonos located on the west side of Hora. You will find numerous cozy shops to enjoy your cocktail! Indicatively, you can choose Galleraki, Scarpa or Veranda.

Explore the Unexplored: Deserted Mines of Mykonos

On the northeast side of the island, one will have the opportunity to discover the deserted mines of Mykonos, a landscape that resembles like a scene from a science fiction movie!

Grape Harvesting in Mykonos

Every second or third Sunday of September, the feast of grape harvest takes place in the Agricultural Museum of Mykonos. The museum is housed in an old windmill in Hora. Known as the Boni Windmill, the museum is a division of the folklore museum exhibiting a rich collection of agricultural tools used for the production of farm products. Main exhibits include a traditional threshing machine, a wine press, a water wheel and a stone water tank.

It’s Sunset Time

Wondering where you will admire one of the most beautiful sunsets in the country? This must be the neighborhood of Little Venice! If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the lighthouse of Armenistis! The sunset from there is equally beautiful!

Mysterious Mykonos: Discover the Other Face of Mykonos

Although Mykonos is known as the most cosmopolitan island of Greece, imagine how many mysterious beauties might keep for the discerning travellers! Don’t be mistaken, but every place has one millions of faces. If you visit the island on spring or autumn, you will have the opportunity to meet another face of Mykonos. Admiring the sunset from the lighthouse of Armenistis, enjoying the unspoilt beaches of Agios Sostis and Agios Stefanos, paying your respects to the monastery of Panagia Tourliani, experiencing the agro activities of Vioma and visiting the sacred island of Delos are some of the “unordinary” things you can do in Mykonos. Drive across Mykonos in spring and you will be definitely charmed from the different atmosphere of the island.

Participate in the events of the Gastronomy Association of Mykonos

Discover the events of the gastronomy association of Mykonos. The association organizes an activity on a weekly basis at a different point of the island in order to popularize the local cuisine. Participation is free!

Sailing and Yachting in Mykonos

The rocky islet of Tragonisi lies just one mile off the eastern coast of Mykonos. There is a cove on the northeast side of the islet ideal for mooring. Tragonisi is also a shelter of the Mediterranean Monk Seal Monachus Monachus! The rocky islets of Htapodia are located five miles off the southeast side of Mykonos. Usually, strong winds blow the islets and access is difficult. However, the island of Rhenia is another island located just off the island of Delos, an ideal place for sailing explorations!

Taste the Pastries from the Oldest Bakery of Mykonos

The bakery of Yoras in Hora is the oldest bakery still in operation on Mykonos! The rustic breads, the rusks, the kouloures (Easter bread coils) and the christopsoma (Christmas bread) are still baked in the same old wood oven! The bakery is located on Ignatios Basioulas Street.

Watching Movies the Stars of the Aegean

Cine Mando is an open air cinema offering a relaxed vista under the bright stars of the Aegean. The cinema operates from June until September.

Windsurfing at its Best: Blessed from the Winds

The prevailing winds of the area are northern winds with an occurrence rate of 38.2% followed from the northeastern winds with an occurrence rate of 16.3%. The rate of lull is relatively small reaching approximately 11.3%. The winds are neither gentle nor strong ranging from 2 to 6 on the Beaufort scale.

Photo Credits

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Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Agios Ioannis Beach: Leonora Enking by Flickr

Agios Sostis Beach: Shutterstock

Alleys in Hora: Shutterstock

Church: Jjmusgrove by Flickr

Church of Panagia Paraportiani: Enrique by Flickr

Elia beach: Shutterstock

Ftelia Beach: Shutterstock

Houlakia Beach: Luca Conti by Flickr

Lighthouse: Mateus Pabst by Flickr

Lions of Delos: Shutterstock

Little Venice: Shutterstock

Monastery of Panagia Tourliani: Richard Martin by Flickr

View of Little Venice: Shutterstock 

View of Hora: Shutterstock

Windmills: Robert Pittman by Flickr