Known as the 'Island of the Winds', this magical part of the Cyclades group in the Aegean sea is a magnet for party-goers and a renowned celeb hot-spot.
Famous for its white-washed buildings, heavenly azure-coloured waters and white sand beaches, Mykonos's charm is multi-dimensional, with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, vibrant nightlife and fascinating culture.
Its alluring glamour appeals to a cross-section of tourists, including wind surfers, foodies and hedonists who are among those who flock to this sparkling island in the sun.
Top sees for a fee
Absorb the sights, scents and sounds of beautiful, bustling Mykonos Town - also known as Chora - as you take a stroll down central Matoyianni Street.
The most famous street in the old town, to the locals it's the heart of the town, and also a perfect spot for people-watching along the pretty pathways.
Shop until you drop in high end shops and boutiques which sell everything from designer clothing and handmade jewellery to soaps, souvenirs and ceramics. With shops open until midnight, the quaint café bars, restaurants, and coffee shops nearby offer welcoming spots for refreshment and rejuvenation.
Set sail and embark on a day trip to the island of Delos, UNESCO world heritage site and fabled birthplace of Apollo, the god of music and light.
Once one of the most sacred places in Greece, this tiny, uninhabited rocky island was a major commercial and trade hub around the first millennium BC and is now an important mythological, archaeological and historical site.
Unearth the mystery surrounding the Curse of Delos and wander around magnificent ancient ruins such as the grand marble archway of the Propylaea - the former entrance to the Sanctuary of Apollo - and The Doric Temple of Isis.
Marvel at gems such as the preserved marble theatre, built in 300 BC, and the famous Terrace of the Lions.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delos to discover an eye-opening array of artefacts - some dating back to pre-historic times - together with marvellous mosaics and rare historical statues.
Book an organised tour - starting from around €50 - which includes transport by boat, a guided tour and free time for the museum.
Must sees for free
Capture picture-perfect snapshots of Mykonos' iconic landmark - striking white windmills, seen at their best at sunset.
Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they symbolise the town's wheat and bread producing heritage, with just sixteen out of the original 28 surviving today.
Although no longer in use, seven of the thatched structures still stand in Mykonos Town. Take a short stroll to the picturesque district of Little Venice, where a further five remain.
Soak up spectacular scenery as you meander around the magical cobble-stone streets of Little Venice.
Charming old shops, cafés and houses teeter on the edge of the glistening waters of the Aegean, wrought-iron balconies jutting out over the sea.
It's a captivating area for artists and tourists alike, with white-washed walls and splashes of vibrant pink Bougainvillea set against a backdrop of azure ocean.
Explore a maze of alluring alleyways and stumble upon enchanting art galleries, bars and bistros. Enjoy a glass of chilled wine or two in waterfront taverns such as Semeli, Caprice or Scarpa bar, all romantic spots to watch the sun as it sinks into the sea.
Admire the iconic architecture of the Church of Paraportiani, crowned with a dazzling white dome set against a canvas of brilliant blue sky.
Synonymous with picture postcard images of Mykonos and the Greek islands, the 17th Century Byzantine church is still an active place of worship.
The site itself dates back to the 15th century and is the oldest of 365 churches on the island. Commonly thought to be only one structure, it consists of five chapels across two floors, the main feature being the domed church of Virgin Mary on the top.
Step inside to view a variety of religious decorations dating back to the Middle Ages or climb the external staircase for stunning views overlooking the Mediterranean and old port.
Getting Around
Get out and about and hire a quad-bike to explore the beauty of the island or rent a moped for zipping around the streets of Mykonos Town.
Taxis are limited and car hire can be expensive therefore buses tend to be the most popular and cheaper option. Increasing in frequency during the summer, buses leave from one of the two main bus stations in Mykonos town - you can travel from the North or the South Station to any beach for less than two euros.
Alternatively, take the beach taxi and go beach hopping with tickets priced around €4 for one way.
Going Out
From salsa dancing on the beach, to celeb-spotting at hip cocktail hotspots, Mykonos' nightlife is legendary throughout the Greek islands.
Hedonists will love the all-night drinking and dancing and overall buzz of Paradise Beach, two miles south of Chora. Famous for its stylish bars, restaurants and beach parties, nightclubs such as Cavo Paradiso regularly attract top international DJs.
For a quieter evening, Little Venice has a cosmopolitan vibe, with chic cafés, romantic restaurants and atmospheric bars which overlook the sea.
Alternatively, choose from a cornucopia of cocktail bars and clubs which line Matoyianni Street for bar hopping and dancing until dawn.
Hotels
Budget: Conveniently located in the heart of Mykonos Town, Hotel Lefteris offers quiet, comfortable accommodation just a few minutes walk away from the Old Port and a 15 minute drive to Paradise Beach. Enjoy evening sunset views overlooking the town from the hotel's rooftop terrace, while room facilities include mini fridge, air conditioning and wi-fi.
9, Apollonos str., Mýkonos City, 84600. Phone: +30 2289 023128. From £42.
Midrange: Take in the ambience and elegance of ultra-chic Harmony Boutique Hotel. Set on the fringe of Mykonos Town, it's just a five-minute stroll from the Old Town, with dining, nightlife and shopping on the doorstep. Gaze upon the yachts harbourside as you take a dip in the pool or recline in beautiful, spacious garden or ocean-facing rooms.
Mouseio Chora, Mykonos Town 846 00. Phone: +30 2289 028980. From £72.
Luxury: Offering chic and contemporary accommodation, the island-bungalows and private villas of five-star Mykonos Blu Hotel overlook the fine golden sands of Psarou Beach. Upgraded quarters feature stunning seaviews, while a private chef, butler service and helicopter and yacht rental are available should you need it. Dine al fresco at the hotel's chic poolside brasserie or cool down with cocktails served VIP-style to your sunbed on the beach.
Psarou Beach, Psarou 846 00. Phone: 00 30 231 118 1920. From £151.
Fact File
Currency: Euro - £1 = €1.20
The Flight: Manchester to Mykonos International Airport (JMK). 4h 5m, from around £244.
Time Zone: GMT+2.
Best Time to Visit: The warmest weather is from June to September, although a pleasant time of year is between September and October, when the crowds have dispersed, the weather is still warm and the sea is comfortable still for bathing.
Visas/Injections/Precautions: No visa required for stays of up to 90 days.
