Mykonos is best known for its beaches and nightlife, but a first trip here can be much richer than that. Between the photogenic town, the ancient wonder of Delos, the windmills, and the range of beaches from family-calm to party-loud, there's enough to fill several days. This guide rounds up the best things to do in Mykonos for a first-timer, beyond just finding a sunbed.
This article contains affiliate links. If you book through them we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Explore Mykonos Town (Chora)
The island's heart is its main town, a labyrinth of whitewashed lanes, blue-shuttered houses, bougainvillea, and boutiques designed to get you happily lost. It's at its best in the early morning or golden hour before the crowds and nightlife take over. Don't miss the little church-lined corners and the photogenic main square.
2. The windmills and Little Venice
The row of 16th-century windmills on the hill above town is Mykonos's signature image, and just below them, Little Venice is a row of old houses built right at the water's edge, now home to bars and restaurants. It's the classic spot to watch the sunset with a drink as the waves lap the foundations.
3. Day trip to Delos
A short boat trip from the old port takes you to Delos, an entire uninhabited island that's one of Greece's most important archaeological sites — the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and once a thriving sacred city. Wandering its ruins, temples, and famous terrace of marble lions is a remarkable half-day and a complete contrast to the modern island.
4. Beach-hop the south coast
Mykonos's beaches are a huge part of the appeal, and they have distinct personalities — from the family-friendly calm of Ornos and Platis Gialos to the famous party strips of Paradise and the chic scene at Psarou. Sea taxis make it easy to sample several. Our beaches guide breaks them all down.
5. Experience the nightlife
Mykonos's nightlife is world-famous, from sunset cocktails in Little Venice to beach clubs that party all afternoon to late-night bars and clubs in town. Even if you're not a big partier, a sunset drink and a stroll through the buzzing evening town is part of the Mykonos experience. Our nightlife guide covers the scene in depth.
6. Watch the sunset
Mykonos does sunset beautifully. Little Venice and the area by the windmills are the classic spots, with bars perfectly positioned for the show. Arrive a bit early to claim a waterfront table, order a drink, and watch the sky and the white town turn gold.
7. Eat well
Mykonos has a strong dining scene, from waterfront seafood tavernas to stylish modern restaurants. Fresh fish, Greek classics, and a glass of wine by the water is the move. As ever, wander a few streets back from the busiest tourist spots for better value and a more local feel.
8. Take a sunset cruise
For a memorable splurge, a sunset cruise around Mykonos and the nearby islets trades the land crowds for a view from the water — sailing past the coastline with a drink as the sky turns, often with a swim stop and dinner aboard. It's a relaxed, scenic alternative to the buzzing town on at least one of your evenings, and especially nice for couples.
Fitting it together
A great two-to-three-day Mykonos mix: explore Mykonos Town and watch the sunset from Little Venice on the first evening; spend a day beach-hopping the south coast; and devote a half-day to Delos for a dose of history. Add a night out if that's your scene. Book the Delos boat trip and any popular restaurants or beach clubs ahead in peak season, and remember the meltemi wind can affect exposed beaches and boat trips on its windiest days.
How long you need for all this
How much of this list you fit depends on your stay. In two days you can comfortably explore Mykonos Town, watch a sunset from Little Venice, hit a beach or two, and have a night out. Three days adds the half-day boat trip to Delos and more beach-hopping along the south coast without rushing. If Mykonos is one stop on a wider island-hopping trip — which is how most first-timers do it — prioritize the town and sunset, one or two beaches, and Delos if history interests you, saving the deeper beach-club or nightlife exploration for travelers who came specifically for the scene. The island is compact, so you're never far from the next thing, but the scarce taxis mean planning your day around the bus and sea-taxi routes keeps it smooth.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Mykonos?
Explore Mykonos Town and Little Venice, see the windmills, take the boat trip to the ancient site of Delos, beach-hop the south coast, watch the sunset, and experience the famous nightlife.
Is Delos worth visiting from Mykonos?
Yes — it's one of Greece's most important ancient sites, an entire uninhabited island of ruins reached by a short boat trip. It's a fascinating half-day and a complete contrast to modern Mykonos.
Is there more to Mykonos than partying?
Definitely — the charming town, the windmills and Little Venice, the Delos ruins, a range of beaches, and a strong dining and sunset scene all make for a rich trip beyond the nightlife.
Where's the best sunset in Mykonos?
Little Venice and the area by the windmills, where waterfront bars are perfectly placed for the view. Arrive early to claim a table.
How many days do I need to see Mykonos?
Two to three days lets you explore the town, hit a few beaches, visit Delos, and enjoy a night out without rushing.
