There is no doubt. Mykonos Town is the pulsing heart of the island, with the majority of attractions, restaurants, high-end shops, and clubs gathered there. No wonder so many visitors choose the Chora, as the locals call their capital, for their summer holidays. Rightfully so, with so many things to do, see, and experience on offer.
Now, the challenging part is to choose where to start exploring the delightful Cyclades island with the snow-white, sugar-cubed houses that look like tasty iced cupcakes against a dazzling blue backdrop, the cobblestone streets, and the enchanting sights. Well, here is a small guide to help get you out of this tight situation!
1. Strolling the narrow stone-built paths of the Chora
The winding alleys that feel like a maze will take you to several different corners of the city. As you take a leisure walk through the city streets, you will be greeted with minimalist whitewashed dwellings with bougainvillaea-filled balconies and colourful wooden doors and window frames. Also, adorable tavernas, popular bars, lively cafes, designer shops, gourmet restaurants, and awe-inspiring chapels like Panagia Paraportiani church. Feel free to choose your favourite spot and enjoy a cup of coffee, refreshing cocktail, or delicious local tastes at the break of the day or just before the sun vanishes behind the horizon. Definitely, a rewarding activity to pamper yourself with.
Tip: Some sights worth your time are the Maritime Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Town Hall, especially if you are into the local culture.
2. Getting a small taste of Venice, Italy!
Treating your soul to fantastic views of the Aegean Sea is what you will get from heading to Little Venice. The bewildering 18th-century neighbourhood has distinct similarities with the famous Italian city of Venice. It makes sense, though, considering that the entire island has strong Italian influences from the time it was under the ruling of the Italians. The beachfront at Little Venice is lined with colourful houses that literally have their balconies hanging over the water! Once the residences of wealthy merchants and sea captains, they are now turned into cafes and bars welcoming locals and visitors alike.
While enjoying your drink or fresh seafood dishes at a seaside cafe here, you can soak up the last rays of the sun and be amazed by the swirling of shades that dominate the Mediterranean sky just before sunset. If you come early in the morning, you may even catch local fishermen returning from their night fishing expeditions with their small boats full of sardines and other fish!
3. Heading to the highest points in Mykonos Town
Nobody leaves Mykonos without having seen the infamous windmills from up close. Situated in a hilltop location, they symbolise the rich past of Mykonos and offer pristine seascapes and romantic sunset views down Little Venice. The hallmark of the island is the Geronimos Mill that dates back to the 1700s. Today, it is renovated and privately-owned but still maintains most of its original equipment and mechanisms. For full access to a windmill that’s been preserved in its original condition, do visit Bonis Mill, though. With three floors to explore, you will be able to see how the islanders used to grind wheat to make flour.
Another supreme spot above the city is the Castle that will enable you to take a step back in time, when Mykonos was a fortified island, protecting its residents and their belongings from pirate invasions.
At the end of such an exciting day, the best closure probably finds you at the comfort of your exclusive villa or mansion overlooking the vastness of the Mediterranean Sea while the soft Meltemi wind caresses your senses. Magical indeed!
