Historical Charm Meets Modern Nightlife in Mykonos
Enter Constantly ranked amongst the world’s most cosmopolitan destinations and frequented by the jetset, Mykonos is the center of fine living, extravaganza and Greek nightlife. Local legend says the island was formed when Hercules defeated and buried giants who were then turned into a huge mass of rock rising from the sea. Despite the myth, there is something otherworldly seeing its white houses exemplifying Cycladic architecture originating in the Homeric age. You’ll be enchanted by translucent azure seas, amazed by the rich history, and seduced by delicious Greek flavors. Welcome to Mykonos!
A panorama of Mykonos from the mountainside.
Spanning thirty-three square miles, Mykonos fuels nightlife energy and earns its title as the “Ibiza of Greece”. The island that never sleeps (or at least not until the early morning) offers abundant social options – a crisp cocktail at sunset, a private rooftop party at one of luxury resorts or dancing to the tunes of world’s best DJs – the choice is all yours. Getting to Mykonos is easy – you can either hop on one of several daily flights from the Athens or take a short four-hour cruise on a yacht from the port of Piraeus just seven miles southwest. The epicenter of life in Mykonos is Chora, the island’s port town and capital, with its picturesque stone alleyways and charming whitewashed houses and churches.
Stay in the traditional waterfront villas in Mykonos
There are two main ways to experience Mykonos: explore its history and marvelous nature during the day and enjoy the vibrant nightlife after the sun sets. After treating yourself to a traditional Greek breakfast on the terrace of the perpetual favorite, Aegean Poets, located in the Mykonos Blu Luxury Resort (breathtaking views of the azure sea included), take a sunny stroll around the town through its alleys and narrow streets. Visit the iconic windmills that were used for grain–grinding until the mid-1960s. Indulge in the island’s rich history and head to neighborhood Kastro, home to Panagia Paraportiani, a world-famous Byzantine church considered by many visitors the most beautiful landmark on the island. Its construction took place over two centuries, and when finally completed in the 17th century, it spanned five joined white-washed churches which now make an impressive visitor attraction.
Boats in the Aegean Sea, with Mykonos as a backdrop.
When you’re ready to soak in Mediterranean sun and work on your Herculean bronze, visit one of the Mykonos’ idyllic beaches on Aegean Sea. The choice may prove difficult because each beach is seemingly more gorgeous than the last. All are true gems of the Greek coast! If an afternoon party is your pace, check out the famous Paradise Beach Bar at Paradise Beach, which turns into a festive atmosphere well into the night. You can also choose to relax and lounge on a more pristine and luxurious Psarou Beach, with its fine sand, heavenly soft beach beds and delicious cocktails from the Nammos Bar. If you are feeling adventurous, explore ancient Greek ships and architectural ruins as well as remarkable nature – underwater. GoDive Mykonos is located on Lia Beach and they are sure to provide you with an unforgettable snorkeling and scuba diving experience.
Sunsets in Mykonos are best spent sipping a cocktail and taking in panoramic views of the island in Matsuhisa at The Belvedere. The legendary chef and creator of Nobu restaurants, Nobu Matsuhisa, opened this glamorous 5-star venue that offers terrace seating with marvelous views of the sea and some of the best cocktails on the island. Enjoy dinner at Little Venice, Mykonos’ historic 18th-century district with its famous stretch of seaside restaurants and luxury boutique shops, a great spot for evening strolls and fine seaside dining. Be sure to visit the highly sought-after Katerina’s Restaurant which promises to awake all your senses with its Greek delicacies (think baked feta appetizer and lamb gyros) and perhaps the best view of Aegean Sea in the area.
The windmills of Mykonos.
Famed for its nightlife, Mykonos turns into an uber glamorous destination for jet-setters and celebrities worldwide once the sun sets. Start the party at the Scandinavian Bar, a hot-spot full of beautiful faces and dancing bodies located in downtown Mykonos and then head to one of the beaches to continue the night. For party-until-sunrise and contagious dance rhythms by best European DJs, be sure visit one of “sexiest beach clubs in the world” according to the Travel Channel in 2012 - Tropicana Bar.
One final piece of advice: leave all the stress back on the mainland and let yourself be seduced by the beauty and naughty charm of this unique island.