Mykonos, a stunning island in the Aegean Sea, is famous for its windmills and beaches but there’s a lot more to do here besides sunbathing with your nose in the latest best-seller. Here we take a look at five fun and fascinating things to do in Mykonos.
1. Join a local cooking class
There’s no better way to get to know a new culture than through its food and a great way to do this is to join a Mykonos cooking class in a local’s home. Here you can learn local cooking techniques, help prepare traditional dishes before sharing the feast with your chef and fellow students.
2. Dance until sunrise with your feet in the sand
Time passes fast on Mykonos, especially at night. For those who like to party, you’ll find you don’t need to try very hard to stay awake until morning. If you visit the party beaches, lively bars and clubs in Mykonos Town, it’s likely that you’ll still be there as the sun comes up.
A great experience is dancing with your feet in the sand at one of the popular beaches of Paradise, Super Paradise, Psarou or Paranga. Here the parties go on all night with the DJs playing the latest hits and people dancing everywhere – in the streets, on the tables, on the sand. As the sky begins to brighten, take a break and relax while watching the sunrise before heading home to bed!
3. Explore the ancient ruins of Delos island
If dancing until dawn isn’t quite your style, how about exploring one of the most significant historic sites there is in Greece?
Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, was a major port and religious centre throughout the 1st millennium B.C. Today, you can walk through the remains of many significant structures dating back to that era in this vast archaeological site including Doric temples, an amphitheatre, houses with mosaic floors and the iconic Terrace of the Lions statues.
Beyond the ancient ruins, quiet beaches with the crystal clear waters await, including small secluded coves that can be reached only by boat.
Consider renting a private yacht and a tour guide to get the most out of a visit. Alternatively, join a group guided tour to this magical island steeped in history.
4. Get active in or on the water
Water sports are easy to be found in Mykonos, with numerous beaches having excellent facilities. Several of the island’s beaches are ideal for windsurfing including Kalafatis, Korfos, Ftelia and Platys Gialos attracting enthusiasts from all over the world.
If you prefer being in the water, try diving or even snorkelling. You’ll find good dive centres at Lia, Kalafatis and Paradise beaches, where you can rent equipment and get advice from experienced staff. Mykonos has a rich water life and you can go snorkelling almost everywhere around the island, although beginners you should stay close to the beach and avoid the northern shoreline where the winds can be strong.
5. Watch a drag show
Mykonos has had a reputation for being open-minded since the early 60’s. The island has many gay-friendly beaches, bars and clubs. Check out their events lists and you’ll notice numerous drag queen shows. As long as you’re not easily shocked, you’ll find them extremely entertaining and a Mykonos experience not to be missed! You’ll find some of the best drag shows at Jackie O’, Babylon and the Elysium Hotel.
If you love a good festival, visit in August for the XLsior Festival host to some of the best artists on the gay circuit scene.
More things to do in Mykonos
If that’s not enough to keep you busy, try a romantic walk along the beach at sunset, an early morning hike, exploring picturesque villages or visit the Archeological Museum of Mykonos for a look at ancient artefacts and marble statues. Lena’s House, a unique folk museum in a nineteenth-century Mykonos house, is also well worth popping by, as is the Aegean Maritime Museum. But if you’re still not convinced by Mykonos, check out things to do in Paxos!
Stay in your very own Mykonos villa
You may well feel exhausted by the end of your first day on the island, having enjoyed many new experiences. At certain times of the year, especially in August, the crowds can get a little overwhelming.
Renting an exclusive private Mykonos villa is the perfect answer. Here you can just as easily continue your party or indulge in total tranquillity as the mood takes you. Enjoy the company of your friends or family with everything you might need to hand in your idyllic holiday home from home. Cool off in the pool, light up the barbecue and escape the hubbub even in the height of summer.
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