A part of the Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos is undoubtedly one of the most popular islands in Greece. Full of life, Mykonos boasts a buzzing club scene, stunning accommodations, gorgeous beaches, and several historical sites, including its renowned 16th-century windmills. However, these nine fascinating facts about Mykonos delve deeper into the island’s colorful and quirky nature, the reason why it continues to be an alluring holiday destination.
Most tourists combine Mykonos as part of their travels around the Cyclades. Ferryscanner can assist you in creating the perfect island-hopping itinerary. Starting from Athens, a typical two-week trip can easily include places such as Santorini, Naxos, Tinos, Paros, and Mykonos.
An Island of Many Names
For most visitors, Mykonos is the party center of the Cyclades. No wonder then that it is known as the “new Ibiza” amongst the jet-setting crowd of the world.
However, the modern-day name of the island comes from Mykonos, the eponymous first ruler of the island. A Demi-God, he is said to be the son (or grandson) of Apollo, the God of music and the arts. Apollo himself was born on the nearby island of Delos.
The names don’t just end there. Mykonos, along with Tinos and Andros, often faces the full force of the strong and yet cooling winds, Meltemi. As a result, locals and tourists refer to Mykonos as the “island of the winds.” It’s also why you’ll find several windmills here.
Mykonos and Mythology
Most islands in Greece have some connection to Greek mythology. Mykonos has many, but it is, in particular, known to be the site of two great battles.
Here, Zeus is said to have fought the Titans, defeating them and sending them to the depths of the earth.
At the same time, Mykonos is where Hercules, son of Zeus, lured the Giants from Mount Olympus to slay them. Some believe the large boulders spread around the island are actually petrified corpses of the Giants.
The Colors of Mykonos
When island-hopping in the Cyclades, it’s almost obligatory to take pictures in front of whitewashed houses with gorgeous colored doors and shutters. But the Greeks don’t just color their homes for aesthetic value.
Besides being cheaper and environmentally friendly, the white also reflects light, keeping the houses cool during hot and humid summers. However, an interesting fact about Mykonos is that it follows a strict code for painting its doors and windows.
On the island, locals use only blue, red, and green. In the early days, these colors corresponded with the profession of the residents. Green for the farmers, blue for the fishermen, and red was the color used by everyone else on the island.
The churches in Mykonos paint their domes blue as the color also signifies the sea and the sky. Popular worldwide, the island’s blue shade regularly features on many designer color palettes as Mykonos Blue.
Petros the Pelican
The story behind the mascot of Mykonos is one of unbounded love and care, dating back to 1958. In that year, Petros the pelican first arrived on the island in a poor state of health.
A local fisherman took the bird under his wing and nursed it back. Although free to leave, Petros decided to stay on the island and soon became an icon amongst the locals.
Over the years, Petros turned out to be quite the character, often making news for one reason or another. Once, it flew to Tinos. When the islanders refused to return the bird, Mykonians had to go to court and eventually Tinos to get Petros back.
Another time, in New York for a film shoot, Petros disappeared from the set, found later napping between cars.
Petros sadly died a sudden and tragic death in 1985 when hit by a car. Although initially stunned by Petros’ untimely death, the island has continued to adopt a pelican as its mascot since then.
Little Venice
Most evenings in Mykonos begin at Little Venice. The neighborhood is famous for its Venetian-style houses on the water’s edge, with balconies floating over the sea.
During Venetian rule, these abodes primarily belonged to merchants trading all types of goods to and from Venice. The direct access to the water allowed them to load and unload cargo quickly. It is also for this reason that the area is known as Little Venice.
Nowadays, these rustic residences house some of the best restaurants in Mykonos. Perfect for a romantic interlude, book a table at Caprice, Scarpa bar, Katerina’s, or the iconic Kastro’s Restaurant for the best, most-photographed views in town.
Hey Taxi!
Here’s one of the most surprising facts about Mykonos, especially for first-time visitors. Even though incredibly popular with tourists, the island has just over 30 taxis in total.
Consequently, if you’re looking to hire a cab during the peak summer season, expect a waiting time of half an hour to an hour. The good thing is that at least taxis operate on all seven days of the week. Things are less hectic during the winter months, and you can find a taxi faster.
So, the best way to travel around the island is by renting an ATV or a moped. Or else, look for a hotel within walking distance of the popular clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Secret Beaches of Mykonos
Another good reason to rent a moped is the freedom a self-driven vehicle gives you to discover Mykonos’ offbeat corners. The island’s coastline is brimming with tiny, secluded, and hidden beaches, each unique and a delight to explore.
However, before you congratulate yourself on finding a secret spot, be aware that many “abandoned” beaches are actually privately owned farmlands. Therefore, by being on them uninvited, you are technically trespassing.
But don’t worry too much if you find yourself on private property. Go and ask the owner permission to stay awhile. In most cases, they will allow it. In the rare case they do not, respect their decision and head out to another location.
Champagne Dreams
Mykonos is renowned for its exclusive clubs. Among the very best on the island is Nammos on Psarou Beach. The uber-luxurious seafront property has been the go-to place for party-goers since 2003. So exclusive is the club that a pair of sunbeds and an umbrella here rent for €150.
One of the lesser-known facts about Mykonos also links to Nammos. For it is here that you can purchase one of the most expensive bottles of champagne in Europe.
A 30L Armand De Brignac Methuselah Midas sells at Nammos for a whopping €120,000. In all fairness, this one bottle is equal to 40 standard champagne bottles. Alternatively, you can also go for the 15L or 6L bottles of Methuselah Rose, which cost slightly lower, for €72,000 and €12,000, respectively.
From Pirates to Celebrities
Much-desired by empires and conquerers, Mykonos caught the fancy of pirates in the Aegean around the 13th century. It then soon became a place for them to make merry, where they would come to drink, sing, and dance.
To protect themselves, the locals built a labyrinth of streets in which pirates often got lost. These very streets are brimming with charming cafes, shops, and architectural treasures these days.
Post-1537, when Mykonos came under the rule of the Turks, it was the Greek pirates who started attacking the island. These assaults continued up until 1830, the year Mykonos finally gained independence.
Almost two centuries later, Mykonos now faces an onslaught of a different kind. Travelers, celebrities, and the rich from across the globe descend on the island to immerse themselves in its vibrant club culture. From elegant hotels and premier beach clubs to a gourmet culinary scene and quaint pastoral alcoves, the island has it all.
Some famous individuals known to have partied on Mykonos are Mel Gibson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ariana Grande, Sharon Stone, Billy Zane, Paris Hilton, and Mariah Carey.
f you too would like to take advantage of the entertainment this fascinating island has to offer, all you have to do is book your ferry tickets to Mykonos using Ferryscanner, and pack your bags for this fantastic trip!