Destination guide

Mykonos

Fly into JMK. Aster compares live fares there across economy, premium economy, business and first - scored against your budget, sleep and legroom, with a straight answer on whether the upgrade is worth it.

Ask Aster for flights to Mykonos

Mykonos is a small Cycladic island with whitewashed lanes, blue-domed chapels, windmills and a worldwide reputation for beach clubs and nightlife. Its main town, Chora, is a maze of narrow streets built to confuse pirates.

It is glamorous and expensive in summer, and surprisingly quiet in spring and autumn. It also has quiet beaches and traditional villages beyond the party spots.

How many days: 4

Four days is a good length for the town, a few beaches and a boat trip. Three works if you plan well.

A day trip to Delos, a sacred island a short boat ride away, is the most popular outing. Book ahead in summer.

What to do in Mykonos

Get lost in Chora
The main town is a maze of whitewashed alleys, shops and cafes. Wander without a map, and visit early or late to avoid the crowds.
See the windmills
A row of old windmills stands on a ridge above the town. Come at sunset for the view.
Visit Little Venice
A district of old houses built over the waterline, with bars looking out to sea. Popular for sunset drinks.
Take a boat to Delos
An archaeological site on a nearby uninhabited island, said to be the birthplace of Apollo. It has ruins, mosaics and a museum.
Swim at a quieter beach
Beaches such as Agios Sostis and Fokos are less developed than the party beaches. Pack water and snacks.
Explore Ano Mera
A village in the interior with a monastery and a quieter atmosphere. A good place to eat away from the crowds.
Visit a beach club
Mykonos is known for its beach clubs, with music, food and sunbeds. Prices are high, and bookings are often needed.
Visit the Aegean Maritime Museum
A small museum in Chora about the island's seafaring past. A good wet-day or midday stop.
Walk to the Armenistis lighthouse
A short walk from the north coast, with a view over the sea. A good place to see the wild side of the island.

What to eat and drink

Kopanisti
A spicy, creamy local cheese. Spread on bread or served with salads.
Louza
A cured, spiced pork, traditionally from the island. Served sliced as a meze.
Fresh fish
Taverns near the waterfront serve grilled fish. Ask for the catch of the day.
Amygdalota
Almond sweets, a Cycladic speciality. Good with coffee.
Greek salad
Tomatoes, olives, cucumber and feta with olive oil. Simple and fresh.
Honey and thyme
Local honey and herbs appear in cheeses, pies and sweets. A good gift to bring home.
Sunset meze
Small plates of dips, grilled vegetables and fried cheese are a good way to spend an evening. Share a few with friends.

Getting around

Chora is compact and car-free in its centre. The lanes are winding and confusing, so allow time.

Buses and taxis link the town to beaches and villages. Boat taxis serve some of the beaches in summer.

A scooter or quad bike is popular, but roads can be steep and windy. Wear a helmet and take care.

Good to know

  • Mykonos is among the most expensive Greek islands, and prices peak in July and August. Spring and autumn are cheaper and calmer.
  • The meltemi wind blows in summer and can affect beaches and ferries. Check the forecast.
  • Book accommodation and boat trips well ahead for summer.
  • Many businesses close in winter. Check before you go.
  • Be careful on the roads at night, as accidents involving scooters are common.
  • The island is small, but distances between the beaches can take longer than expected. Plan one or two places a day, rather than many.
  • Ferries and flights are busy in summer. Book early, and be aware that strong winds sometimes delay sailings.
  • Many villas and small hotels are away from the town, so check how you will reach it at night before booking.

Where to stay in Mykonos

6 neighbourhoods, described the way a friend would - what each is actually like, not the brochure version.

Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town, or Chora, suits first-time visitors who want restaurants, shopping and the island's main nightlife within walking distance. It is convenient and atmospheric but crowded, noisy and expensive during peak summer.

Ornos

Ornos is a practical beach base particularly well suited to families and travellers wanting easy access to both the sea and Mykonos Town. Its sheltered bay and restaurant selection are convenient, though summer crowds and prices can still be substantial.

Platis Gialos

Platis Gialos suits travellers who want to spend most days on the beach while retaining useful bus and water-taxi links. It is polished and convenient but can feel busy and resort-oriented rather than traditionally Cycladic.

Psarou

Psarou is aimed at travellers seeking upscale hotels, beach clubs and a polished luxury scene. The beach is excellent, but prices are among the island's highest and the atmosphere is less appealing if nightlife and high-end venues are not priorities.

Elia

Elia suits travellers prioritising a spacious beach and a quieter resort stay away from Mykonos Town. Its relative isolation is part of the appeal, but dining, nightlife and public-transport choices are more limited.

Ano Mera

Ano Mera offers a quieter village base for travellers who want a more local side of Mykonos and are happy to travel to the coast. Prices can be more forgiving than the major beach resorts, but a car or regular bus use makes the stay considerably easier.

What it costs

A typical day in Mykonos, per person, in pounds.

£69

Shoestring - hostels, street food, public transport.

£184

Comfortable - a decent hotel, restaurants, the odd taxi.

£288

Treating yourself - the good hotel, the good tables.

Ready when you are

Tell Aster when you're thinking of going. It does the comparing; you keep the final word.

Start your search