Highlights the best Mykonos has to offer, from art and culture to fun-packed activities; we've even found the most inspiring place to enjoy the views from.
Worth getting out of bed for
Viewpoint
At sunset, walk around to Chora’s famous cliffside windmills to watch the golden light fan over the high-arcaded houses in the area known as ‘Little Venice’.
Arts and culture
If you’re after archaeological marvels, take a trip to the nearby island of Delos. According to mythology, it’s the birthplace of the Greek god Apollo, and it still contains a host of ancient temples, and other examples of Minoan and ancient Hellenic architecture. On Mykonos itself, you can get a quick culture fix by visiting art gallery-cum-shops such as the Studio on Panachrantou Street, or Scala on Matoyianni Street. Both have selections of works by local artists to view and buy.
Something for nothing
‘Twitchers’ and other fans of our feathered friends should keep an eye out for Mykonos’s famous mascot, the pelican. The story goes that, about 40 years ago, a local fisherman found an injured pelican, nursed him back to health and then set him free. Instead of flying off, the bird decided to stay, and the Mykonians named him Petros. A mate for Petros was donated by Jackie Kennedy and then, a few years ago, another pelican (‘Nikolas’) set up nest, too. You can usually spot at least one of them shaking a tail feather on the waterfront.
Shopping
Midnight is prime shopping time. All the tiny little stalls and boutique shops in the warren of cute cobbled streets come alive, creating a catwalk for beautiful boys dressed to the hilt in Gucci, Prada and Lacoste, and sun-kissed girls floating around in their finest. Pay homage to Hermès and other designers while doing the preening, strolling and window-shopping thing. Self-adulation somehow feels right in the spiritual home of Narcissus. Our favourite lifestyle boutique is Zilly (pictured).
Best beach
Agios Sostis is a peaceful and beautiful little beach with an excellent fish taverna. Elia beach is a long sweep of sand with crystal-clear water. Psarou beach is the place to head for Riviera-style lounging. Paraga is a lively part of the shoreline and home to the excellent Tasos taverna.
Activities
Fetelia and Kalafatis beaches have steady sea breezes and are the best on the island for windsurfing.
And...
If you’re feeling keen there are over 300 churches in and around Mykonos town, stuffed with mosaics and frescos.
Diary
16–18 June European Freestyle Windsurfing Championships at Paradise Beach. 40 pro-windsurfers will be in town, prompting squeals of admiration from girls and boys alike. For the old ravers among you, there’s a full-moon party every month on the same beach.
