Island Escape: A Guide To Mykonos, Greece

By Emma Cunningham

Out in the Aegean Sea, lies the sun-drenched, elegant, Cycladic island, of Mykonos. Arriving to the island will be a treat in itself, as you dance across the sapphire Greek waters via ferry, welcomed by a shoreline so psychedelic, your eyes pop.

“Unreal,” you will say to yourself as you step foot to land, far too mesmerized at the view to notice you’ve been waiting for a taxi for 20 minutes to take you to your hotel. Later you will learn how Greeks do not hold any sort of conventional time scheme for life.

“I thought the club closed at 4am?” You will shout to your new found friend somewhere along Paradise Beach. “It’s already 7! How are we still here?” You laugh about it over souvlaki for breakfast.

Oh, Mykonos…

And with so much zen, views, food and fun to indulge in, you might begin to feel a tad overwhelmed by the tiny island.

Worry not though. By all means, continue to stroll down those angelic white streets, (but don’t forget snag a spot near the town windmills for sunset) because I took it upon myself to provide you with some secrets of the stunningly picturesque, Mykonos.

WHERE TO STAY

Chances are you came to Mykonos for the party and scenery. Paradise Beach is where you’ll get both.

There are two main accommodations spots near Paradise Beach where all the party dwellers and budget travelers post up.

1.Paraga Beach Hostel

HIGHTLIGHTS -

- Outdoor pool and bar

- Mini-market on hostel grounds

- Free shuttle bus to town and ports

- Ocean side restaurant

- 250km walk to clubs/bars on Paradise Beach

- 24/7 reception

- Great sunset views

- Rates starting at 16€/night

2. Paradise Beach - CAMPING

HIGHTLIGHTS -

- Cabins and bungalows available sleeping 2-3 people

- Free breakfast

- Steps away from the infamous Paradise Beach

- Located near endless shops, restaurants, and water sport centers

- Located near bus station for Mykonos Town

- 24/7 reception

- Over looks ocean and Paradise Beach

- Rates starting at 45€/night

Looking to splurge a bit or not interested in staying in a camp ground or hostel? Click here to search for your ideal spot in Mykonos!

WHERE TO EAT

SAVE: Sakis Grill House - Mykonos Town

For Mykonos Town, this place is a steal. Delicious gyros and pitas starting at 3€!

The perfect spot for a quick and cheap bite before losing yourself around the mystic white streets.

SPLURGE: Kastro’s Restaurant & Bar - Little Venice

Every meal, no matter where you are, should make you feel the way Kastro’s makes you feel. Sit for a cocktail, listen to some chill-out tunes and try and wrap your head around the sensational Greek sunset before your eyes. The vibe is so euphoric, you won’t know what to do with yourself. Especially when you eye up the waiters! Most thing can/should be ordered to share here, due to prices. I highly recommend anything with black olives or feta cheese, because GREECE.

BEACHES & NIGHTLIFE

The beaches on the south shore of the island (Paraga, Paradise Beach and Mykonos Town) have the best sand, views, and wind protection, but are pretty crowded at the height of the season. Like mentioned before, Paradise Beach is where the party is at. But if you’re looking for a beautiful beach without the chaos then head to Agios Sostis. There are zero lounge chairs or umbrellas in sight, so you truly feel as if you’re at a secret beach. So secret, some people may even go nude. Platis Gialos and Ornos, are quieter, less crowded and more popular with families.

If you’re looking to drink and dance until the wee hours of the morning, Cavo Paradiso is your spot. Everything is outdoors and built into a dramatic cliff top just east of Paradise Beach. There are international DJs there practically everyday throughout the summer, from DJ Snake to Steve Aoki, you’re bound for an epic night. If you are feeling something a little lower key, then Paradise Club is the place for you. A smaller spot sitting right on the water, with fun music and a very fun crowd.

GETTING AROUND MYKONOS

Don’t you DARE sit around the beach nursing your hangover all day. Mykonos is too extravagant to not see every inch of. March yourself up to your hotel/hostel’s information desk and ask where the nearest ATV rental is. It’s easily the best way to round up a few new friends for some exploring and you’re able cover the entire island from coast to coast.

They’re incredibly easy to operate (and much safer than scooters/mopeds). And side streets in Mykonos are incredibly narrow, meaning not many cars are able to fit! So you can get by very easily without worrying too much about traffic. Be sure to bring a map with you so you can hit all the secret beaches!

Prices start at about 20€/day and you must have a valid driver’s license.

GETTING TO MYKONOS

BY AIR

If you’re on a time crunch or just extremely anxious to get to Mykonos, there are daily direct flights from Athens to Mykonos airport.

Check out Skyscanner.com or kiwi.com for your cheapest and best rates.

BY FERRY

Depending on the route and vessel, you can reach Mykonos from Athens within 4-6 hours. Piraeus and Rafina are the two main ports in Athens.

You can book a ferry online to Mykonos (as well as other Greek Islands) via Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways or Sea Jets.

A true European playground, Mykonos is a flawless mix of luxury fantasy and a wild ride of an island, offering something for everyone. It’s everything that it’s hyped up to be, and more. So go grab your suitcase and passport, because the psychedelic shores are calling…