written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 13.08.2024
Mykonos, the glittering jewel of the Cyclades, is a Greek island that effortlessly combines glamour, history, and natural beauty. Are you drawn to the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high-end boutiques of Mykonos Town, or do you prefer the laid-back vibe and family-friendly beaches of Ornos? In this article, we'll guide you through the best areas to stay in Mykonos, helping you find the perfect spot to enjoy your Greek island getaway - whether you're planning to dance until dawn or just relax by the beach.
While you’ll find much more detail below, here's a quick summary of each neighborhood in Mykonos:
Mykonos Town, also known as Chora, is the bustling heart of the island. Its maze-like streets are lined with whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and vibrant bougainvillea.
Little Venice, with its colorful houses perched on the edge of the sea, is perfect for a romantic sunset view. The iconic Windmills of Mykonos stand sentinel over the town, a testament to the island's history.
Matoyianni Street, the main shopping drag, is always buzzing. Here, you can explore boutiques, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops. During the day, locals and tourists sip coffee at sidewalk cafes. But as evening falls, music from bars and clubs fills the streets, and restaurants come alive with diners enjoying Greek cuisine.
For a unique dining experience, try M-eating for a modern twist on Greek food in a beautiful garden setting. Katrin, in an 18th-century building, blends Mediterranean and French flavors. For drinks with a view, Galleraki cocktail bar in Little Venice is unbeatable. Scarpa Bar, with its open-air terrace, is perfect for people-watching while you enjoy creative cocktails.
Why I love it: Mykonos Town captures the essence of Greek island life – from its picturesque architecture to its vibrant nightlife.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Mykonos City to fit any budget.
Port Mykonos in evening, Greece © Shutterstock
Ornos is a charming coastal village just 3 kilometers south of Mykonos Town. It’s known for its family-friendly vibe, making it an ideal spot if you’re traveling with kids and looking for a mix of relaxation and convenience.
At the heart of Ornos is its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, which is perfect for families. The calm, shallow waters of Ornos Beach are great for young swimmers and a variety of water activities. If you’re up for something different, take a short walk to Korfos Beach. It’s windier there, making it a hot spot for windsurfers and kiteboarders.
You’ll find plenty of charming waterfront restaurants in the area, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea—perfect for family meals. Ornos has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of Mykonos Town.
There’s more to do beyond the beach, too. Rent a small boat to explore nearby coves, or visit the nearby Mykonos Nautical Museum. There are also several mini-markets and bakeries in the area, making it easy to stock up on essentials.
Why I love it: Ornos offers the perfect balance for families seeking a relaxing beach holiday without being too far from the action.
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Psarou is the epitome of luxury on Mykonos, famous for its stunning beach, exclusive resorts, and frequent celebrity sightings. This small bay area is synonymous with high-end vacationing on the island.
At the heart of Psarou is its namesake beach, one of the most beautiful and exclusive beaches on Mykonos. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand create a perfect setting for sunbathing and swimming. Nammos Village, a chic shopping destination, offers a curated selection of designer boutiques and luxury brands.
Dining in Psarou is a highlight. Nammos Restaurant, part of the famous Nammos beach club, is renowned for its fresh seafood and star-studded clientele. For a unique experience, try Kuzina Mykonos, which offers a modern take on Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views. Psarou Beach Restaurant provides a more relaxed setting while maintaining high standards in both food and service.
Beyond lounging on the beach and indulging in fine dining, why not enjoy exclusive experiences like private yacht charters departing from Psarou Bay, helicopter tours of the island, or personal shopping experiences at Nammos Village.
Why I love it: Psarou embodies the glamorous side of Mykonos, offering an unparalleled luxury experience.
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Mykonos with famous windmill © Shutterstock
Agios Stefanos is a charming coastal village in the northern part of Mykonos, offering a more laid-back and authentic Greek island experience compared to the busier southern areas.
The beach here is a beautiful stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters. It is less crowded than those in the south, making it perfect if you're seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Just a short drive away, the Armenistis Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and neighboring islands.
The village itself is dotted with local tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine, adding to its bohemian charm. With a mix of locals and visitors, the area has a residential feel, giving it an authentic Greek island vibe. The pace here is slow and easy, with people enjoying the beach or exploring the village's narrow streets.
Beyond the beach and dining, you can enjoy activities like hiking along the coastal paths, taking a boat trip to the nearby uninhabited island of Rineia, or visiting the Folklore Museum of Mykonos in nearby Ano Mera to learn about local traditions.
Why I love it: Agios Stefanos captures the essence of a more authentic, bohemian Mykonos.
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Paradise Beach features a gorgeous stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, which transforms into a pulsating party scene as the day progresses. Nearby, Super Paradise Beach offers a similar vibe with a touch more exclusivity. The international and diverse crowd creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere where people from all walks of life come together to celebrate under the open Mykonian sky.
The legendary Tropicana Beach Club, situated right on Paradise Beach, is known for its wild day parties that seamlessly transition into night. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, Cavo Paradiso is an iconic open-air nightclub that hosts world-renowned DJs and offers breathtaking views. Void is a newer addition to the scene, providing a more intimate clubbing experience.
For drinks and light bites, head to Guapaloca Bar, which offers tasty cocktails and snacks with a view. Paradise Take Away is perfect for a quick, budget-friendly meal between parties. For a special dining experience, make a reservation at Cavo Paradiso's restaurant, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes while overlooking the sea.
Why I love it: Paradise Beach epitomizes the vibrant, carefree spirit of Mykonos. It's a place where you can dance from dusk till dawn.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Paradise Beach to fit any budget.
Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece © Ella Hanochi/Shutterstock
For budget-conscious travelers looking to experience the beauty of Mykonos without breaking the bank, Platis Gialos is an excellent choice.
Located in the southern part of Mykonos, Platis Gialos is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore other parts of the island. While it can get busy during peak season, its beautiful beaches and excellent water sports facilities more than make up for the occasional crowds.
The beachfront is lined with a variety of restaurants and bars, offering everything from traditional Greek cuisine to international fare. Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them entertained, with facilities offering activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and parasailing.
The neighborhood exudes a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, balancing the tranquility of a beach resort with the energy of a popular tourist destination.
Beyond lounging on the beach and indulging in water sports, Platis Gialos offers several other activities for visitors. Take a boat trip to nearby beaches like Paradise or Super Paradise, or embark on a day trip to the archaeological site of Delos. For those looking to stay active, the coastal path to Paraga Beach offers a scenic walk with beautiful views.
Why I love it: Platis Gialos offers the perfect blend of affordability, beautiful beaches, and convenient location.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Platis Gialos to fit any budget.
Kalafatis is a charming coastal village on the eastern side of Mykonos. This lovely area is famous for its stunning beach, a paradise for water sports lovers. At the Kalafatis Windsurfing and Diving Center, you can rent equipment and take lessons for windsurfing, water skiing, and scuba diving. It's buzzing with activity in the summer, welcoming both beginners and seasoned pros.
As you stroll along the beach, you'll come across traditional Greek tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes with amazing sea views.
The village itself has a lot of classic Cycladic charm, featuring white-washed buildings with blue doors and shutters. Wandering through the narrow streets, you’ll see small chapels, family-run shops, and everyday Greek life, offering a nice break from the island's busier areas.
For nature lovers, there are hiking trails nearby that take you through the rugged Mykonian landscape with breathtaking views of the coast. If you're into culture, check out the Monastery of Panagia Touliani, one of the oldest on the island.
Why I love it: Kalafatis captures the essence of traditional Greek island life.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Kalafatis to fit any budget.
Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece © Ella Hanochi/Shutterstock
Agios Sostis is a hidden gem in the northern part of Mykonos, known for its stunning beach with golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Unlike the bustling beaches of Mykonos, Agios Sostis remains largely untouched by mass tourism, keeping its natural charm and tranquility intact. The beach has no organized facilities, which adds to its unspoiled beauty and peaceful vibe.
Just above the beach, perched on a hill, sits the iconic Kiki's Tavern, a rustic, no-electricity restaurant that has become somewhat of a culinary pilgrimage site for those in the know. Open only for lunch, the tavern doesn't take reservations, leading to long queues that have become part of the experience. The wait is made enjoyable with complimentary wine, and the payoff - delicious grilled meats, fresh salads, and spectacular views - is well worth it.
Agios Sostis is all about pure relaxation. The typical hustle and bustle of Mykonos fade away here, replaced by the gentle sounds of waves and the wind rustling through the hills. There are no beach bars blasting music or rows of sunbeds for rent – just nature at its finest. This creates a peaceful atmosphere where you can truly unwind, disconnect from the outside world, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Aegean.
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the underwater world right off the beach. For the more adventurous, the surrounding hills offer excellent hiking opportunities with rewarding views over the Aegean Sea.
A short drive away, you can visit the picturesque Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm and Vineyard for wine tasting and a glimpse into traditional Mykonian agricultural life.
Why I love it: Agios Sostis represents Mykonos at its most authentic and unspoiled. In a world where pristine, undeveloped beaches are becoming increasingly rare, especially on popular islands like Mykonos.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Agios Sostis to fit any budget.
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 13.08.2024
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