Where to Book Your Stay in Mykonos for a Local Experience

Pair local experiences with luxury in these villas that have everything you could want, including private pools and jacuzzis, lounging areas with plush sofas on shining marble, light-filled airy rooms and full kitchens. The highlight is the flawless service. Staff can organise everything from private sunset dinners in your villa and in-suite massages to yacht chartering and even private jets for the especially lavish. It promises to “reveal local secrets of the island” and arranges local experiences you won’t forget.

This simple family-run hotel promises a friendly atmosphere and warm Greek hospitality. Walk under the white stone arches, past the rows of green plants, and into your room adorned with brightly coloured, homely decor. Grab a snack on the roof terrace, next to a traditional church, or walk into the village to visit the bakery for fresh spanakopita (spinach pie). Paradise Beach, famous for parties, is 2km (1mi) away if you want to kick it up a notch.

Described as “minimal design and luxurious amenities”, the chic rooms at My Mykonos are a blend of black and white with geometric patterns. Combined with the on-site restaurant and bar – which serves haute cuisine and new generation cocktails – this hotel encapsulates the cosmopolitan spirit of Mykonos. The town is a short walk away, and you can see the classic white cube buildings spilling before you from the hotel pool terrace. Here, you’re truly a part of the island.

Right outside Myconian, you’ll find Kalafati, the only beach in Mykonos with trees providing a shady respite from the endless sunshine. Do as the locals do and chill out in this peaceful bay after a relaxing dip in the Aegean. Back in your room, you’ll find log tables, colourful wall art and statement cushions, not to mention a private garden with a bubbling jacuzzi. The suites are in the rolling hills, making them a peaceful break from the bustling town.

Lithos sits in the quiet, charming village of Agios Ioannis, with a traditional chapel, a sandy beach and a pretty harbour. Wander the area slowly – you’re on Greek time now – and enjoy the natural beauty in every direction you look. Back at Lithos, the ever-friendly staff welcome you with a smile. Rooms are simple yet exquisite, and there’s an al fresco continental breakfast to wake up the Greek way – with good food and lots of coffee.

To experience the ultimate Greek beach life we all dream of, stay at Petasos, sitting on a private peninsula. Relax on your exclusive stretch of beach – between Platis Gialos and Psarou – with powdery golden sands and turquoise water, and take in the beautiful scenery. The renovated rooms are Cycladic white with pops of colour. There’s a spa with revitalising therapies and, overlooking the yacht-dotted sea, a fusion cuisine restaurant with a DJ.

Greeks love their sea and sand as much as visitors do. This chilled haven is right on beautiful Ornos Bay and exudes that laid-back Greek vibe of the islands and their people. Nature-inspired room details include bamboo-lined headboards and woven wall features. There’s a spa, a gym, an infinity pool and a beach bar with that perfect Mykonos mix of relaxed cosmopolitan chic.

Kouneni was built in the 1960s, making it the first modern private hotel in Mykonos, and has attracted famous politicians, intellectuals and artists from across the world over the years. It’s in the centre of town, so you can truly experience the winding, Cycladic maze of Mykonos, with restaurants, shops and churches at every turn. The studios are built for comfort with vintage-style furniture, pastel colours and floral print curtains, making it easy to feel at home in this Greek paradise.

Explore the streets of beautifully quaint Ano Mera village to find colourful houses like those from a postcard and traditional tavernas selling classic Greek dishes, such as moussaka and souvlaki. This boutique hotel is 8km (5mi) from bustling Mykonos town, with fabulous peninsula views. It’s a five-star joint with rooms featuring bare stone walls and lanterns for a comfy, classy stay.