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Mykonos

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 the 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.

Aegean Blue

Dives in Emerald,Sapphire and Turquoise Waters

 

World famous for its golden sandy beaches and its crystalline waters, it is definite that Mykonos will surprise you with its natural beauties. Blessed with the finest of nature, Mykonos hosts some of the most beautiful beaches of Greece, if not Europe. Whether you are looking for azure, cerulean, emerald, sapphire or turquoise waters, Mykonos has it for you! Cosmopolitan and organized, secluded and isolated, sheltered and windy, you will find everything you need in Mykonos. Whichever beach you choose, a dive in the cold waters of the Aegean will offer you moments of utmost revitalization and tranquility. The southern part of the island hosts some of the finest beaches of Mykonos that distinguish for their soft sand and their wonderful views protected from the prevailing winds of Meltemi, the local wind of the Cyclades, while the northern coastline of the island distinguishes for its calm and tranquil atmosphere.

 

Agios Sostis: Reserved for Lovers of Remoteness

 

Situated at the northern part of the island, Agios Sostis is one of the remotest beaches of Mykonos. If you are looking for tranquility and peacefulness, Agios Sostis beach is the right for you. Shining golden sand with turquoise waters surrounded from a barren and arid landscape creates one most beautiful beaches of northern Mykonos. The scenery of Agios Sostis beach seems exotic! Above the beach, you will find the tiny chapel of Agios Sostis that provides magnificent views, especially during the sunset. Undeniably, Agios Sostis is a must if you are visiting Mykonos this summer!

Agrari: Couples’ Favourite

 

Distinguished as one of the quietest beaches of Mykonos, Agrari is the couples’ favorite beach. The crystalline waters in combination with the quiet atmosphere create an unexpected beach destination for Mykonos. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the crowds, Agrari could be the best spot for you.

Elia: A Beach Awarded with A Blue Flag

Elia Beach

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Located on the southern shore of Mykonos, Elia is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches of Greece! It is the longest sandy beach of Mykonos ideal for those who want the tranquil environment of Mykonos. It is worth mentioning that the beach has been awarded with a Blue Flag. Elia beach is one of the best-organized beaches of the island with a wide range of amenities from sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, diving centers and water sports facilities. Relaxed, carefree and less crowded than other equally renowned Mykonos beaches, due to its length, Elia Beach is the perfect choice for those who wish to appreciate the island’s legendary jet-set atmosphere.

Houlakia: A Carpet of Pebbles

 

Houlakia is one of the very few pebbled beaches of Mykonos that was named as Houlakia due to the beautiful smooth stones that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s quite weird that all those Houlakia pebbles have been formed from the sea waves! In fact, Houlakia beach environment is a protected area, so make sure to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints! It is highly advisable the footpath along the right side of Houlakia beach to admire the panoramic view of the pebbled carpet with Delos appearing behind the sun setting through the Aegean Sea!

Fokos: Isolation Majesty

 

Undoubtedly, Fokos beach is one of the most isolated beaches of Mykonos on the north coastline of the island. Surrounded from wild sceneries and arid landscapes, Fokos beach is your ideal beach destination if you want to get away from the crowds. The magic of this particular beach lies on the fact that it is totally unorganized! Lying on the golden sand under the sunrays of the Aegean sun is the ultimate relaxation in the Cyclades. Our team highly advises our travellers to taste the traditional dishes of Fokos Taverna, one of the best traditional taverns of Mykonos!

Ftelia: Windsurfers’ Paradise

Ftelia Beach

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Crystal clear waters, golden sand and arid sceneries compose the unique landscape of Ftelia beach that really deserves a visit! The beach is well known for the famous Neolithic settlement found on site, which is believed to be the tomb of Ajax the Locrian, a hero of Iliad. Ftelia beach is a secluded paradise from the madness of Mykonos. The beach has been established as the windsurfers’ paradise, as it is almost always quite windy. The onshore wind, north-facing Ftelia might be quite unpleasant to sunbathers, however it seems like a pleasant surprise for windsurfing lovers!

Lia: Seclusion at its Finest

Lia Beach

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Lia is one of the most spectacular beaches of Mykonos located on the southeastern edge of the island. Deserted to its exclusive beauty, Lia distinguishes for its exotic sceneries and its relaxing environment. Although Lia is a well-organized beach, it pays its tributes to the environment making an ideal destination for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. Lia is a rather quiet beach in contrast to the standards of Mykonos. It is worth mentioning this beach is a great spot for diving and snorkeling; so bring your mask with you to uncover mysterious underwater treasures!

Kalo Livadi: Dance to the Beats of Music

Kalo Livadi

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Unquestionably, Kalo Livadi is one of the most popular beaches of Mykonos that distinguishes for its festive beach spirit and its glorious DJ beach parties. Found between Elia and Kalafatis beaches, Kalo Livadi is one of the longest beaches of the island. The soft sand and the exotic waters create an idyllic landscape. The beach is considered to be one of the best-organized beaches of Mykonos with a wide range of amenities from sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, and water sports facilities. If you want to experience the true spirit of Mykonos’ beach entertainment, you should not opt out Kalo Livadi from your list.

Kapari: Views to Cradle of Western Civilization

 

Kapari is one of Mykonos best-kept secrets! Golden sand and turquoise waters surrounded from the typical arid landscape of the Cyclades create one of the most beautiful beaches on the southern coastline of Μykonos. This earthly paradise has managed to be kept genuine with a stunning view to the sacred island of Delos. If you wish to escape from the crowds, Kapari is your ideal option. Undeniably, Kapari is a must if you are visiting Mykonos this summer!

Panormos: One of the Best

 

Situated on the northern coastline of the island, Panormos holds the reigns of one of the best beaches of Mykonos. Although it is one of the remotest beaches, Panormos is a perfect getaway especially when the southern winds of the Cyclades blow out in the Aegean. Enjoy your cocktail in the amazingly comfortable poufs on the sand and dive in the crystal clear waters of Panormos; certainly, Panormos Beach is a must choice if you are looking for a fashionable, yet tranquil, beach bar.

Paradise & Super Paradise: Beach Parties’ Heaven

 

Everybody knows that Paradise and Super Paradise Beaches are the mecca of beach parties in the Mediterranean, where multicultural parties happen all-day and all-night long. Both of them are well-organized beaches with a wide range of amenities from sunbeds and umbrellas, camping facilities, beach bars and cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, diving centers and water sports facilities. If you wish to party like there is no tomorrow, you should definitely visit those beaches and experience the beach party spirit of Mykonos at Cavo Paradiso!

Psarou: Cosmopolitan & Ethnic

 

Holding the reigns of one of the hottest beach destinations in the Mediterranean, Psarou is the favorite spot for jetsetters from all around the world. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, Psarou beach is one of the best organized beaches of Mykonos with a wide range of amenities from sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and restaurants, diving centers and water sports facilities, that distinguishes primarily for its cosmopolitan atmosphere. On top of all, every summer the program of Psarou lines up with various international acclaimed DJs and singers that will definitely peak partygoers interest. Each summer is a story of its own, welcoming the elite clientele, whether that be actors, business tycoons or models. Nammos is the essence of cosmopolitan Mykonos, an all-day-and-night experience.

Blessed from the Winds

Kitesurfing & Windsurfing At The Island Of The Winds

 

Even the words too windy cannot describe the prevailing summer winds of Mykonos! The northern face of Mykonos is known as the windy side due to its direct exposure to the northern summer wind of the Cyclades, known as Meltemi. Those northern winds blow 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. Whether you are a windsurfing aficionado or a kitesurfing lover, it is definite that you should practice your favorite sport in Mykonos; a one-of-a-kind experience on the island of the winds! Korfos Beach is the natural paradise for kitesurfing due to the amount of tension in the air that remains stable, while the shallow depths help creating waves for endless leaps and wave riding! If you pursue for windsurfing experience, then you should visit Kalafatis Bay! This bay offers the ideal condition for relaxed free rides and cool freestyle sessions in its vastness. Nonetheless, Ftelia Beach awaits for you with huge waves from the northern winds of the Cyclades. One thing is certain; whichever sport you want to practice, the island of the winds has it for you!

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Must Visit

Discover the Maritime History of the Aegean

Address: 10, Enoplon Dynameon Street Telephone: +30.22890.22700 Working Hours: 08.30 – 15:00 from November to March & 10.30 – 13:00 and 18:30 to 21:00 from April to October

Aegean Maritime Museum

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Did you know that one of the most important museums of Greece, the Aegean Maritime Museum, is found on the island of Mykonos? The Aegean Maritime Museum is a non-profit institution that was established in 1985 with the intention of preserving and promoting the Greek maritime history and tradition with regards to the evolution of the activities of the merchant ships in the historical area of the Aegean Sea. The museum is housed within a traditional Mykonian building of the 19th century in the region of Tria Pigadia of Mykonos town. This particular house used to be the home of the legendary master of the merchant shop Enosis, namely Nikolaos Sourmelis, who assisted the Cretans during the War of Independence from the Ottoman Empire. Aficionados of maritime history will have the opportunity to discover a wide collection of ship models from the pre-Minoan period up to the beginning of the 20th century, rare engravings and ancient maps, historical shipping documents, navigational instruments, naval tools and equipment, as well as a collection of rare coins with nautical subjects from the 5th century BC. One of the pleasant surprises of the museum is its library, which hosts more than five thousands volumes of rare and recent editions, photographs and archives of manuscripts, which are constantly updated from additional materials in relevant subjects. Visitors will also have the opportunity to admire replicas of ancient marble gravestones found in shipwrecks lost in the sea around the islands of Delos and Mykonos. All of these are located in the garden of the museum along with an enormous Fresnel lighthouse. It is worth mentioning that the Aegean Maritime Museum participated in international conferences as well as events of the Hellenic Navy for the Maritime Week. If you are a lover of maritime history, you should definitely visit this museum!

Enjoy the Sunset from the Church of Panagia Paraportiani

Church of Panagia Paraportiani

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The whitewashed church of Panagia Paraportiani stands imperious by the sea at the entrance of the neighborhood of Castro, the oldest district of Mykonos town. It is one of the 365 (one for every day of the year) churches of the island, and one of the most photographed churches of the entire country. Panagia Paraportiani exclusivity lies on the fact that it is an asymmetrical entity of five churches built one on top or next to the other; the church of Agios Efstathios stands on the center surrounded from the churches of Agia Anastasia, Agios Anargiros and Agios Sozon while the church of Virgin Mary stands on top of all those churches just like a dome. Built between from the 14th throughout the 17th centuries, the church of Panagia Paraportiani once guarded the entrance of the castle, which has been completely destroyed. This church is definitely a must see during your visit in Mykonos! Keep in mind, however, that the church is an active house of worship, so remember to be respectful. Lovers of photography should not miss the opportunity to capture an image of the church standing out in brilliant white towards the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. The sunset is also not to be missed!

Find out the Mysteries of the Agricultural Museum of Mykonos

Address: Ano Myli Street Telephone: +30.22890.22390 Working Hours: 16.00 – 20:30 from June to October

Agricultural Museum of Mykonos

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One of the days you will wonder around the labyrinthine alleys of Hora, visit the agricultural museum of Mykonos, which is housed within the Boni Windmill in the area of Ano Myli. Within the windmill, you will have the opportunity to admire a fine collection of agricultural tools that were used from the farmers of the island in the past. It is worth noting that Boni windmill maintains its original inner decoration and its genuine exterior form, where visitors will learn the way that workers used to weigh the sacks of flour and will have the chance to see original equipment including the grinding and threshing machines. If you happen to be in Mykonos on the second Sunday of September, visit the Boni Windmill as the harvest celebration takes place and crowds gather to step on the grapes at the old wine press!

The Lighthouse of Armenistis Will Make You Wonder If Is Sky The Limit

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Abandoned in the passage of time, the lighthouse of Armenistis breathes the air of Mykonos’ rich maritime tradition. Undoubtedly, Armenistis lighthouse is a must visit, as it is considered to be one of the most interesting lighthouses of the Cyclades. The lighthouse was manufactured in 1891, after the unfortunate sinking of a British steamboat. The lighthouse is accessible from the route beginning at Agios Stefanos. The sunset should not be missed, as the view of the surrounding area in the astonishing colors of the sunset is a great spectacle.

Wander in the Picturesque Neighborhood of Little Venice

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Oh, Little Venice is the most romantic place in Mykonos; elegant two-storey houses with blue doors, green windows and red balconies situated precariously on the edge of the sea. Undeniably, Little Venice will challenge you to fall in love with this island due to its empowering magnetic appeal. The whitewashed houses against the backdrop of the Aegean blue waters is simply stunning, especially during the sunset time. Before you leave from Mykonos, choose one of the cozy bars of Little Venice to enjoy your fruity cocktail; it is a one-of-a-kind experience!

Pay your Tributes to the Religious Refugee of Panagia Tourliani Monastery

Monastery of Panagia Tourliani

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Although many disregard the religious character of Mykonos, it is certain that you will find more than three hundred churches on the island. Tradition has it that the exact number of churches of Mykonos is 365, one for every day of the year! Each and every one of them is truly unique and amazingly beautiful; so make sure to find your own religious refugee. Make sure, however, to visit the majestic monastery of Panagia Tourliani, the patron saint of Mykonos, which is situated in the village of Ano Mera. Its construction began from two priests in 1542, which named it after the Presentation of Virgin Mary, while the monastery was restored in 1767 and took its present name after the icon of the Virgin found in the region of Tourlos. Panagia Tourliani Monastery is rather impressive, as it distinguishes for its whitewashed exterior, its marble fountain in the yard and its colored dome. If you happen to be in Mykonos on August 15, visit the monastery of Panagia Tourliani as Mykonos’ most important traditional festival takes place on that day to honor Virgin Mary.

The Windmills Attest that Mykonos is the Island of Winds

Windmills of Mykonos

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Since the 16th century, the windmills of Mykonos are one of the most recognized landmarks of the island. The four windmills line up on a hill overlooking the town of Mykonos. Anyone can find the windmills from a distance due to their wonderful silhouette! Snow-white with a spherical shape and a customary wooden roof, these windmills used to be operated by wind, as the island ifs renowned for its gusty wind. The windmills were used primarily to mill wheat, and served as an important source of income of the inhabitants until the 20th century. Although the windmills are no longer operational, they continue to be a vital symbol of Mykonos’ rich past.

Mortals VS Immortals

An Unesco World Heritage Site

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Mythology has it that Apollo, the God of Light, and Artemis, the Goddess of Hunting, the children of Zeus and Leto were born on the Island of Delos. Their mother, Leto, found refugee at Delos, an island that appeared amidst the waves, as she was pursued from every land after the older of Hera, Zeus’ wife and the Queen of the Gods. The childbirth of Apollo and Artemis rendered Delos into a sacred island, so no mortals would ever be allowed to live or die on the island. Located in the centre of the Cyclades, Delos is history itself, an experience of a lifetime, a mysterious island hosting a series of treasures from the Archaic, the Classical and the Hellenistic periods. Delos reserves its exclusivity to the world: nowhere else is there a natural archaeological site of this size and importance hosting such monumental antiquities on a territory used exclusively as an archaeological site. This is why Delos is history itself. Delos was established initially as a holy pilgrimage island, as Apollo and Artemis were born there, while it was then transformed to a political centre due to the fact that it served as the base of the Delian League, and later on, it was utilized as a commercial harbour with luxurious houses and markets. The island of Delos is one of the most important archaeological, mythological and historical sites in Greece. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, and it surely deserves a visit. Cast your imagination to transform these sprawling ruins into the magnificent city it once was.

Outdoor Experiences

Things to Do Out of the Ordinary

Worldwide famous for its crazy nightlife, Mykonos holds the reigns of the most cosmopolitan island of the Mediterranean. Have you thought, however, that Mykonos offers million of things to do out of the ordinary? From watching a movie under the stars of the Aegean, a cruise to the deserted isle of Rhenia and horse-riding at Fokos beach to visiting a medieval castle, exploring the history of Ancient Greece at the cradle of Western civilization and visiting another sunset spot, as the lighthouse of Armenistis, it is definite that Mykonos offers a lot of things to do out of the ordinary! Let’s find out this island’s mysteries!

Ano Mera: An Authentic Face of Mykonos

 

Eight kilometers away from the town of the island, Ano Mera has managed to preserve its authentic identity and its traditional character. Founded in the 16th century, this village distinguishes for its serene atmosphere. Cubic houses, charming churches and whitewashed windmills form the simple images that you will encounter on this side of the island. On this village, the locals seem to insist on leaving with the traditional way of life, riding donkeys and using fresh milk to produce the fresh cheeses of the island, enjoying their coffee at the cobblestone square and paying their tributes from the glorious monastery of Panagia Tourliani. So, why don’t you give it a try to feel like a local in Mykonos?

Cine Manto: Watching A Movie Under the Stars of the Aegean

CineManto

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Can you imagine that Mykonos possesses on its grounds a wonderful botanical garden just in the center of Hora? Cine Manto is a wonderful vast garden drowned from palm trees and towering pines. Sheltered from the winds, Cine Manto is such an unexpected place on Mykonos town, as an open-air cinema operates within these botanical gardens. Under the bright stars of the Aegean sky, travellers will have the opportunity to enjoy first worldwide released films & box office productions for adults and children from June 1 until September 30.

Cruise to Rhenia: The Isle of Gold

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An endless world of deserted land lies just a few meters away from the sacred island of Delos. This paradisiacal illumination glows under the stars. Even beyond paradise. Just before dawn, the first rays of the sun reflect on the fiery gold coast of Rhenia. Invisible chains seem to unite the island of Rhenia with Delos. A journey to Rhenia will remain unforgettable, as the opportunity to explore a place untouched from human presence is one in a million! You can even call it your own corner of paradise. Will you flirt with in the goldish colours of nature? As the sailors say, the sceneries of Rhenia will seal your memory forever!

Dives in Tigani Beach: Mykonos’ Best Kept Secret

 

Just off the eastern shoreline of Mykonos, you will find Pano and Kato Tigani, Mykonos’ best-kept secret. You will not find them in any map. Above all, you will be totally alone! Follow the road towards Kalafatis to Agia Anna, keep your eyes on the right side, and when you see the barren isle of Drakonisi, you will know that you will find Tigani beaches somewhere around. Be careful of the rough and bumpy dirt road, and keep in mind that the distance of the beaches from the town of Mykonos is fourteen (14) kilometers, so you will need a 4×4 car! Unveil the mystery of Tigani!

Full Moon Concert: An Experience of A Lifetime

The full moon of August 1 will be so magnificent, that you will be able to feel like you can touch it. Can you imagine, though, watching a musical concert under the moonlight on the sacred island of Delos? Undoubtedly, it is an experience of a lifetime! You will be transported to another, unique and impossible to conceive, realm. A musical concert, on an uninhabited isle, the cradle of Western civilization, might be only a wish of your while gazing at the stars of the Aegean sky. Um, actually not! It’s the reality! And don’t worry, if you missed it, visit Delos next summer! We will unveil the mysteries of Greece every summer!

iMuseum: A Concept Store With Archaeological Replicas

iMuseum

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Situated in the city center of Mykonos, the iMuseum is a new concept store that brings together replicas from various archaeological museums of Greece. iMuseum concept is divided into the sections of stratification, museum representation and excavation sites. Travellers will have the opportunity to admire wonderful replicas from the collections of the most important museums of the country. It is must-stop shop that will help you uncover the mysteries of a several millennia through history. Leaving the Cyclades behind, you will find yourselves in the Minoan palaces and the unique island of Thera to meet the glorious creations of human of the prehistoric Aegean. Right afterwards the most representative artifacts of antiquity will transfer you to Athens and other important cities, such as Olympia, the cradle of the Olympic Games, in their most prosperous time, to have a taste not just for art, but also for the daily life of that era. Your next stop will be Constantinople, the jewel of the Byzantine Empire, where arts and letters reached their peak until the Ottoman conquest. Finally your journey ends with the art in the dawn of Modern Greece.

Medieval Mystery: The Castle of Gyzi

 

Climbing up to the hill of Palaiokastro from Ano Mera village, you will uncover the deserted castle of Gyzi. Through forgotten today, this was an imperious fortress in the 13th century, when the Gyzi brothers ruled the island in the medieval times. Further up, you will understand why the locals say that the castle offers the finest views of the entire island of Mykonos.

Visit Armenistis Lighthouse: Is Sky the Limit?

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p style=”text-align: justify;”>Abandoned in the passage of time, the lighthouse of Armenistis breathes the air of Mykonos’ rich maritime tradition. Undoubtedly, Armenistis lighthouse is a must visit, as it is considered to be one of the most interesting lighthouses of the Cyclades. The lighthouse was manufactured in 1891, after the unfortunate sinking of a British steamboat. The lighthouse is accessible from the route beginning at Agios Stefanos. The sunset should not be missed, as the view of the surrounding area in the astonishing colors of the sunset is a great spectacle.

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Views from Panigirakis Castle: Panoramic At Its Best

 

Standing above the charming town of Mykonos, the listed building Castle of Panigirakis is built amidst gardens and cobblestone alleys with panoramic views of the town, one of the top ones. The castle has been characterized as a preserved monument of the pre-industrial period. Its an impressive complex of stone walls with a fairytale aura; although part of the land is privately owned, the concrete paths have been built to allow visitors to explore the vast remains of the fortress.

Kiss Night Goodbye from Windy Mykonos

 

Mykonos is the diva of Aegean and the star of the Greek summer. Undeniably, Mykonos is an experience by herself, welcoming a diverse audience every year, whether that is actors, business tycoons or models, superstars and celebrities, lovers, hippies and windsurfers. Each summer is a story of its own, and Mykonos hosts the essence of cosmopolitanism. The island of winds is a testament that fashion is timeless. Have you ever wondered, however, whether Mykonos has another face, far away from the chaotic madness of the nightlife paradise? What if you knew that Mykonos, as other islands of the Aegean, have mysteries you have never heard of? What if you knew that you could unveil all these mysteries? What if Mykonos has another face, a serene one, you have never heard of? Maybe time has come to discover all about it. The sophisticated island of Mykonos challenges you to fall in love with it, as it has created a mystery maintaining a state of love with it. Ready to unveil the mysteries of Mykonos?

DISCOVER THE TIPS OF MYKONOS FROM MYSTERIOUS GREECE

Unveil the mysteries of Mykonos from the travel guides of Mysterious Greece!