MykonosCyclades · Greece

All About Mykonos

Make your way to Mykonos, the cosmopolitan Cycladic island known for its lively nightlife, international jet-set, exquisite beaches and hip hotels. Taking a ferry to Mykonos is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets. A darling with celebs and the party crowd ever since becoming popular in the 1950s, the island continues to offer an uber-trendy experience to those seeking thumping nightlife, haute cuisine, luxury beach-side lounging and eclectic shopping.

While there, explore the other side of this larger-than-life party destination, with traditional villages, simple waterfront taverns and iconic churches quietly tucked away from the giddy streets of the main town. Bask in the glorious light of the Aegean while on Mykonos, enjoy scintillating sunsets and discover the sacred site of Delos just a short boat trip away.
 

Routes and Ferries to Mykonos

Book your ferry to Mykonos with Ferryscanner and sail from either Piraeus in Athens or the Port of Rafina. Take the superfast catamaran from Athens with Seajets for a 3.5-hour journey or enjoy a longer, 5-hour sail with Blue Star Ferries, both of which make frequent daily departures throughout the year. Otherwise you can travel with Fast Ferries ferry which takes about 2 hours to reach Mykonos.

Ferries from Piraeus to Mykonos leave several times a day, although only conventional ferries operate in winter. From May to October, you can jump on the high-speed catamaran and be there in a jiffy. In high season, at least 3 ferries depart in the morning and 1 or 2 in winter.

From Rafina, which is located just 10 kilometers from Athens International Airport, ferries also run throughout the year to Mykonos, with the high-speed journey taking about 2 hours and 10 minutes and the conventional trip with ferry lines such as Golden Star Ferries about 4 hours and 40 minutes. You can also catch a connecting ferry to Mykonos from the surrounding islands.

If you prefer to fly, you can take a 35-minute flight to Mykonos from Athens International Airport, with several carriers offering more than 15 flights daily throughout the summer months.
 

Ports of Mykonos

There are two main ports in Mykonos: the New Port (Tourlos) and the Old Port. Most ferries and high-speed vessels arrive at the former, which is just 2 kilometers outside of Mykonos Town. On arrival, you can catch a taxi or take the bus into Chora, which is also the island’s capital.

The Old Port was once the main arrival/departure point but is now used as a harbor for motor yachts and small fishing vessels. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Mykonos.
 

Capital & Villages

The lively town of Chora is the hub of activity on Mykonos, while there are smaller settlements scattered around the island offering a more relaxed vibe. Ano Mera is the second largest village that is largely untouched by the comings and goings of the glamorous party people.

Chora

A charming labyrinth of whitewashed houses lining narrow, cobbled stone streets, Chora is the epitome of Cycladic quaintness. Pretty little churches and flower-bedecked balconies straddle between high-end boutiques, funky restaurants, and cozy bars. Spot the famous windmills as you stroll around the former fisherman’s haunt of Little Venice on the waterfront.

Take the 15-minute boat trip from Chora to the small island of Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Explore what was once a holy sanctuary said to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and wander around the ruins of its sacred temples. Check out the stone lions, ancient mosaics, and columns of the House of Dionysus and revel at the impressive collection of artifacts and statues housed in the Delos Museum.

Ano Mera

Often referred to as the heart of Mykonos, Ano Mera is just 8 km inland from the capital and is where the locals reside during the winter months. Wander around its scenic streets and stop off at a traditional tavern before visiting the historic 15th-century monastery of Panagia Tourliani, just off the main square. Visit the hillside remains of a Byzantine castle on your way there and enjoy the views from the little old church of Agios Vlassis.

Glastros

A small settlement near Mykonos Airport, Glastros is mainly made up of summer residences and elegant hotels, while it is within walking distance of Mykonos town and the famous beaches on the south side of the island.

Tourlos

Tourlos is also just 2 km away from the main town and offers a little piece of calmness with its lovely beach and collection of typical Cycladic churches and chapels, such as Agios Georgios and Agia Sofia.

Ornos

A natural harbor and prime tourist resort, Ornos is a seaside settlement with an amazing beach that also offers a range of luxury accommodation options and divine waterfront restaurants.
 

Best Beaches

It’s all about the beach life in Mykonos, and there is no shortage of stunning sandy bays offering sun, sea, and sublime drink & dining experiences.

Agios Ioannis – Kapari

Not only will you enjoy spectacular views out to Delos, but the sandy beach of Agios Ioannis is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds. A small beach further down known as Kapari is a secret haven known mostly to locals with fine sand and breathtaking sunset views.

Ornos

Located south of Korfos, Ornos is not easily reached but it’s worth the visit. Popular with families, it is a tourist settlement offering every convenience as well as having a diving center and a small fishing harbor lined by restaurants, bars, and cafés.

Psarou

A trendy, organized beach with fine powdery sand and emerald waters, this is the place to see and be seen. From sunbeds to beach bars and glam hotels, Psarou is the ultimate Mykonos meeting point for sun worshippers.

Platis Gialos

The beach where absolutely everyone who is anyone goes in Mykonos, Platis Gialos is a large, sandy beach that has become very popular with tourists. Its charm lies in its beautiful waters, high-class accommodation, and family-friendly amenities.

Paradise and Super Paradise

Once a hit with the hippies, Paradise beach now attracts visitors from all over the world with its lively vibes and all-day happenings. Super Paradise is definitely the most famous beach in Mykonos, renowned for its extravagant parties and up-beat events, making it a fave with the wild, young party animals.

Kalo Livadi

Located at the end of a long valley, (hence the name, which means ‘good valley’) this is a cosmopolitan Ibiza-like beach that buzzes with trendy clubs and sunbed service, offering pristine swimming and evening cocktails in sheer style.
 

Transportation Around Mykonos

Walking is a great way to discover Chora and as it is closed to traffic, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through its narrow winding streets. The bus network on the island is very good, with 2 bus stations. There is one on the southern side of Fabrika that serves Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Ornos, and Agios Ioannis, and then the northern bus station near the Old Port that connects with Ano Mera, Elia, Panormos, and Kalafatis.

Keep in mind that taxis are few and hard to come by in high-season, with fixed fares for specific destinations. Water taxis are a very popular option to get to some of the most beautiful beaches and usually run every day from Ornos or Platis Gialos. Renting a car/quad, motorbike or bike is also a good idea if you want to venture off the beaten track and explore more remote corners of the island.