I remember my first walk through the labyrinthine white streets of Chora, the main town of Mykonos, like it was yesterday. Every corner, every passageway, every vibrant bougainvillea cascading down a perfectly whitewashed wall was a cover shot for a magazine. Designer boutiques nestled next to tiny art galleries. And then, stepping out into Little Venice. Waves lapped at the foundations of the colorful houses, and the scent of the sea mingled with the sound of chill-out music and the laughter of beautiful, tanned people from all over the world.

That’s when I realized: Mykonos isn’t just an island. It’s a stage. And whether you like it or not, the moment you step onto it, you become part of the show.

Welcome to Mykonos, the most glamorous, famous, and fun-loving island in the Aegean. This isn’t a guide for a quiet family holiday. This is my story of an island where luxury and glamour aren’t the exception, but the rule, and where non-stop fun isn’t just a possibility, but a promise. I’ll take you on a journey through its iconic beach bars, into the heart of world-class clubs, and to the spots with the most breathtaking sunsets. But I’ll also reveal the other, quieter, historical side of this windy island. Get ready, the show is about to begin.

Why Mykonos? More Than an Island, It’s a Brand

In a sea of beautiful Greek islands, Mykonos has become a global brand. Here’s why:

• The Best Party Scene in the Mediterranean: Let’s be honest, this is the main draw. From legendary beach parties starting in the afternoon to superclubs hosting the world’s top DJs, Mykonos is synonymous with a good time.
• Incredible Aesthetics: The perfectly white Cycladic houses, narrow alleys, blue doors, and red church domes create an iconic visual identity. Every corner is Instagram-perfect.
• Beautiful Sandy Beaches: Unlike volcanic Santorini, Mykonos boasts stunning, long sandy beaches with crystal-clear water.
• World-Class Beach Clubs: Mykonos perfected the concept – places where you can spend the entire day, from lounging on a luxury sunbed and enjoying gourmet lunch to dancing into the sunset.
• Glamour & Jet-Set Atmosphere: This is where the famous, rich, and beautiful come to play. The sense of glamour is palpable, from superyachts in the harbor to high-fashion boutiques.
• Proximity to Delos: Just a half-hour boat trip away lies one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, offering a perfect cultural contrast to the hedonism.

The Story of the Island of Winds and Pelicans

According to mythology, the island got its name from Apollo’s grandson, Mykons, and the rocks scattered around are supposedly the petrified bodies of giants slain by Hercules.

In reality, for centuries, Mykonos was a poor, rocky, windswept island. Its fate changed in the mid-20th century. After archaeologists began excavating the nearby sacred island of Delos, Mykonos became their base. Soon, intellectuals, artists, and then the international jet-set, including Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Grace Kelly, discovered it.

They revealed its raw beauty, the charm of its whitewashed houses, and its stunning beaches to the world. Mykonos quickly became a haven for those seeking freedom and beauty. Building on this bohemian reputation, the modern tourist and club scene later developed, turning it into a global party capital.

Practical Guide for Your Glamorous Escape

Arrival & The Most Important Tip

• Airport: Mykonos Airport (JMK) has excellent connections throughout Europe during summer.
• Ferries: Well-connected by high-speed ferries to Athens and other Cycladic islands like Santorini, Paros, and Naxos.
• !! MOST IMPORTANT TIP: Rent a scooter or ATV (quad bike) !! Taxis on Mykonos are notoriously expensive and often hard to find. A scooter or ATV gives you complete freedom to explore the island, discover hidden beaches, and not depend on anyone. It’s part of the Mykonos experience. (Ensure you have the correct license and driving experience!)

When to Visit & Where to Stay

• When: The season runs from May to early October. July and August are the absolute peak – hottest weather, biggest crowds, highest prices, but also the best parties and all the top DJs. June and September are, in my opinion, ideal – beautiful weather, everything is open, but the crowds are more manageable.
• Prices: Be prepared. Mykonos is exceptionally expensive. Everything from accommodation and sunbeds to drinks and food costs significantly more than on other Greek islands.
• Where to Stay:
  • Mykonos Town (Chora): For those who want to be in the center of the action, close to restaurants, shops, and bars. Can be noisy.
  • Ornos or Platis Gialos: Excellent choices if you want to be on a beautiful, organized beach, yet still close to town. Well-connected by bus and water taxi.
  • Paradise or Super Paradise: Only for the truly hardcore party animals who want the club within walking distance. Accommodation options are limited here.
  • Northern Part of the Island: For those seeking peace and quiet, far from the crowds (e.g., Agios Sostis area). You’ll definitely need transport here.

Chora (Mykonos Town): The White Labyrinth of Dreams

Spend at least one afternoon and evening getting lost in Chora.

• The Labyrinth: The best activity is aimless wandering. The streets were intentionally built like a maze to confuse pirates; today, they confuse tourists in the most delightful way. Around every corner hides a new boutique, gallery, or adorable bar.
• Little Venice: A row of colorful 18th-century fishing captains’ houses whose wooden balconies hang directly over the sea. Today, they house the most popular sunset cocktail bars. My Tip: Arrive an hour before sunset, grab a prime waterfront seat, and order a cocktail. The view is priceless (though the drink won’t be cheap!).
• The Windmills (Kato Mili): The symbol of Mykonos. Five iconic white windmills stand on a hill above Little Venice. They are most beautiful for photos in the late afternoon light.
• Paraportiani Church: The most photographed church on the island. An asymmetrical complex of five interconnected chapels, stark white and uniquely beautiful.

Beaches & Beach Clubs: Where the Magic Happens

This is the essence of daytime life in Mykonos.

The Party Beaches

• Paradise Beach: Where it all began. Home to clubs like Tropicana and Paradise Beach Club. The party here starts around 4 PM, with loud music and dancing on the sand.
• Super Paradise Beach: An even wilder and more intense version. Known for its extravagant parties and as a favorite spot for the LGBTQ+ community.

The Glamour Beaches

• Psarou: The most exclusive beach, home to the legendary beach restaurant Nammos. This is where A-listers dock their superyachts. If you want to be seen (and spend a fortune), this is the place. Sunbed reservations are essential and costly.
• Paraga: Home to two of the trendiest and most popular spots in recent years:
  • Scorpios: More than a beach club, it’s a lifestyle concept. Beautiful bohemian-chic design, excellent food, and an incredible atmosphere, especially at sunset when the bonfire is lit and the music ritual begins. (Book well in advance).
  • SantAnna: A huge complex featuring Europe’s largest saltwater pool, private “islands,” and DJ sets.

The (Stylish) Relaxation Beaches

• Ornos & Platis Gialos: Two beautiful, sandy beaches, perfectly organized with sunbeds, restaurants, and watersports. Water taxis to the southern beaches depart from here. Ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience.
• Agios Ioannis: A quieter beach with beautiful views towards Delos, famous as a location from the movie “Shirley Valentine.”
• Northern Beaches (Agios Sostis, Fokos, Ftelia): If you want to escape the crowds, rent your vehicle and head north. These beaches are wilder, more natural, often without sunbeds or facilities, offering complete tranquility (and sometimes strong winds, especially Ftelia – a windsurfer’s spot).

Delos: A Journey into the Heart of Antiquity

My Most Important Advice: No matter how much you came to party, set aside one morning for a trip to Delos.

• What is it? Just a 30-minute boat ride away lies Delos, one of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in Greece. According to myth, the gods Apollo and Artemis were born here.
• The Experience: The entire island is an uninhabited open-air museum. You’ll walk through the ruins of an ancient city, see floor mosaics in villas, temples, and the famous Terrace of the Lions. The energy of this place is incredible. It’s the perfect cultural and spiritual “reset” from the hedonism of Mykonos. (Go early to avoid the heat, wear a hat and sunscreen – there’s very little shade).

Tastes of the Cyclades

• Fresh Seafood: Enjoy fresh fish, calamari, and octopus at seaside tavernas.
• Local Specialties: Try kopanisti, a spicy, peppery cheese spread, and louza, a type of cured pork.
• Dinner as an Event: On Mykonos, dinner is a major part of the evening. It starts late (after 10 PM), people dress up, and the restaurants in Chora are always buzzing. Reservations are essential for popular spots.

Planning Your Glamorous Escape

• Option 1: Mykonos Party Weekend (4 Days)
  • Day 1: Arrive, check into Mykonos Town or Platis Gialos. Evening and dinner in Little Venice.
  • Day 2: Day at Paraga beach, perhaps at Scorpios or SantAnna. Stay for sunset. Evening clubbing.
  • Day 3: Afternoon party at Paradise Beach. Evening exploring the bars in Chora.
  • Day 4: Relax at Ornos beach before departure.
• Option 2: Mykonos Glamour & Discovery (7 Days)
  • Days 1-3: Explore Chora and the southern beaches (Psarou, Paraga, Paradise). Enjoy the beach club scene.
  • Day 4: Morning trip to Delos. Relaxing afternoon.
  • Day 5: Rent an ATV/scooter. Explore the quieter, wilder northern beaches like Agios Sostis and Fokos. Have lunch at a traditional taverna away from the crowds.
  • Day 6: Enjoy watersports or simply relax on your favorite beach. Perhaps a sunset cruise.
  • Day 7: Last frappé with a sea view before departure.

Final Word: A Stage for Life

You’ll leave Mykonos with less money in your wallet, less sleep in your eyes, but with a soul full of rhythm, style, and beauty. It’s an island that seduces you with its aesthetics, conquers you with its energy, and intoxicates you with its beauty.

It’s not just a vacation; it’s a statement. An escape into a world where life is beautiful, fun, and always, always glamorous. And sometimes, believe me, that’s exactly what we all need – to be the star on the world’s most beautiful stage for a few days.