Amazing Things to See and Do on Mykonos, Greece

The cosmopolitan island of Mykonos attracts thousands of visitors every year. Come summer, the island’s reputation reverberates around the Aegean Sea – it’s a hotspot for partying, drawing international crowds to its mega clubs fronted by international DJs. It’s also known as one of the best LGBTQ+ places to stay in Greece. Delve beneath the surface of this party paradise, and discover what else there is to do in Mykonos.

Peter the pelican was an emblematic figure of Mykonos and a symbol of the island during the 30 years of his life. A local fisherman found him wounded in 1958. Afterwards, he was nursed and supported by the locals who named him Petros, from petra, which means “rock” in Greek – petra being the dominant architectural element of Mykonos, and the Cyclades in general. Thousands of tourists used to run after the island’s mascot every summer for a picture. To the disappointment of locals and tourists, Petros was killed by a car in 1985 and was mummified in Thessaloniki, according to the decision of the Municipality of Mykonos. Nowadays, three pelicans live on the island of Mykonos, one of which is named Petros to honour the island’s symbol.

One of the most charming areas in Mykonos is called Alefkantra, or Little Venice, as its picturesque setting next to the sea is reminiscent of the Italian city. The settlement of Little Venice was created during the 18th century by rich merchants and captains – stroll among the elegant houses that perch literally above the sea. At the end of the day, pull up a chair at a waterfront cafe – this is one of the best locations in the Aegean to enjoy the sunset.

The windmills of Mykonos constitute one of the most typical highlights of the Aegean Sea, famous all over the world. The impressive white windmills are located between the settlement of Little Venice and the neighbourhood of Niochori. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the island had more than 20 windmills, which contributed to the wheat production, a fundamental element of the island’s economic development. Nowadays, seven of them are in decent condition.

Lena’s House is located in Chora, near the area of Tria Pigadia. It is an authentic sample of a Mykonian middle-class family house of the 19th century. It hosts a collection of European and local furniture of the 19th century, as well as a wide range of useful and decorative objects, from mirrors to gravures and embroideries. From April until October, it is open to visitors daily, except for Sundays from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

The Folklore Museum on the island is located in Kastro, just minutes away from the famous Paraportiani, in a two-floor traditional building. It hosts interesting collections of classic furniture, handmade ceramics, Byzantine pictures and important manuscripts and photographs. You have to visit this museum in order to get in touch with the deeper cultural identity of the island, which is so much more than the vivid beach bars.

Just a 15-minute walk from the small town of Ano Mera, you’ll find the Monastery of Paleokastro. It was a women’s monastery that dates back to the 18th century. Stroll through the rooms, and you’ll gain a true sense of what it would have been like to live here 250 years ago. Its whitewashed walls and crimson-red doors make for an aesthetic photo. Stop for Greek mezze at the cafe outside afterwards.

Hop on a ferry from Mykonos Town to the island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds huge significance in Greek mythology as the birthplace of two gods, Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. There’s a small, on-site archaeological museum displaying statues and mosaics that have been excavated over recent years, and while there, you can walk around some of the island’s ancient ruins, including the Delos Theatre.

The tiny Archeological Museum of Mykonos is located in the heart of the island, close to the port. It’s famous for its rich collection of vases, some of which date back over 2,000 years, as well as a unique collection of sculptures, ceramics and jewels. Look out for the mortuary urn depicting the story of the Trojan Horse. The museum is open to visitors every day, except for Mondays, from 8.30am until 3pm.

Located in Tria Pigadia, next to Lena’s House, the Aegean Maritime Museum is a non-profit organisation founded in 1983 with the goal to preserve and promote Greek maritime history and traditions. To that end, it exhibits replicas of rowing and sailing ships from prehistoric times until today. It also hosts a rich collection of maps, ancient coins and sculptures, all under the thematic umbrella of maritime life. It is open to interested visitors daily from April until October, from 10.30am until 1pm and from 6.30pm until 9pm.

Mykonos is home to more than 70 Christian Greek Orthodox churches, following the tradition of the islands. A large number were constructed after the Byzantine period by rich families on the island, as a way to thank God or honour one of their relatives. You don’t need to be religious to visit some of those beautiful churches. Paraportiani is one of the most popular, due to its prime position in the centre of town. Stick around to watch the sunset from here.

Oniro is a cosy, atmospheric bar set on a gorgeous rooftop terrace that looks down onto Mykonos Town and across the Aegean. It’s the perfect place to stop for a drink after a sunset swim or to enjoy dinner including Greek souvlaki (grilled meats), locally sourced seafood, cheese, vegetables and more. There’s a bar indoors, but you’ll want to be on one of the pillow-covered benches outside, looking out onto the magical island landscape.

Coming to Mykonos for golden sands and aquamarine waters? Check out our list of the best beaches on the island. If you consider yourself a party animal, the abundance of nightclubs here will keep you busy, too.

If you haven’t booked your accomodation yet, take a look at the best luxury hotels and boutique stays we’ve pre-selected for you. During your time here, don’t forget to sample some mouthwatering Greek dishes at the best restaurants on the island either. Or for a unique stay, discover where to book your stay in Mykonos for a local experience.

Additional reporting by Alex Jordan