THE ISLAND
The Windmills of Mykonos - The most recognised ones are the row on the landmark hill opposite Little Venice, but the island houses 16 in total. Built by the Venetians primarily in the 16th century, the windmills were originally used to grind grain. After production ceased in the 20th century some were converted into homes and some left empty. One of them is now a museum.
The Monastery of Paleokastro - (or "Old Castle") is an 18th-century nunnery located on one of the greenest hills of the island on the outskirts of the village of Ano Mera, a few miles inland. Although it is small and plain to look at on the outside, the interior of the monastery houses an impressive altar and a small museum of church relics and icons. What has also been of considerable interest is the huge 3 metre high granite slab (menhir) protruding out of the ground next to it. which is thought to either be a gravestone or an ancient shrine.
The Sights
The Paraportiani Church - or more correctly Panagia Paraportiani, is situated in the Kastro neighbourhood of Mykonos town (Chora). Construction of this church started in 1425 and was not completed until the 17th century. This impressive, whitewashed church actually consists of five individual but structurally joined churches; four at ground level constituting the base of the fifth church that sits above them. Its name literally means "Our Lady of the Side Gate" as its entrance was found in the side gate of the entrance to the Kastro area.
Little Venice - this beautiful stretch of coastline is lined with typically whitewashed bars and cafe's, all with shutters of varying colours framed by the blue skies and turquoise waters of the Aegean. It has been the subject of many photographs and paintings both in full sunlight and in the evening when the tables are adorned with candles. Beware of the wild waters which occasionally splash onto the promenade!
Matogianni Street - for the avid shoppers among you who would like more than a souvenir to take home, this is the town's main shopping street. Almost cutting through the middle it features small artisanal shops as well as high end fashion boutiques. However, merchandise aside, with its cobbles and white varnished grouting the street itself provides a lovely way of meandering through the town. Lined with whitewashed buildings and adorned with bougainvillea that casually spills over little balconies and housing the occasional eatery or small church, Matogianni Street is the perfect place to start when exploring Mykonos Town for the first time. It can get very busy, especially if there is a cruise ship in port, so an evening visit is usually advisable. Don't worry.... shopping goes on until after midnight!
Mykonos is filled with wonderful beaches that cater to everyone. Whether you are looking for a quiet relaxing oasis or a party club experience, there's a beach for you! Click on the button below to access information to the many beautiful beaches of Mykonos and who they cater to. You may even spot a celebrity or two!
The Beaches
Kiki's Taverna -This intimate taverna is located just above Agios Sostis beach. As well as the plentiful selection of salads and side dishes, this taverna prides itself on the fresh meats and fishes which are grilled outdoors on a barbecue. With stunning views on the little bay below you can enjoy your meal in calm and secluded surroundings. They don't take bookings, no exception (even an aged Oscar winner had to wait!) but they do offer complimentary wine or water while you wait and tables are allocated on a strict first-come-first-seated basis. The afternoon can get very busy but if you arrive around 12:00 you don't usually have to wait more than 20 minutes. Its worth the wait!
Niko's Taverna Located just 3 minutes walk from Molly's Maisonette, this taverna has become a culinary landmark of Mykonos. There are tables everywhere you look... up the steps, on little balconies, in the square and even some tables inside that are all covered with checkered tablecloths. Fresh fish and traditional greek dishes are the staple foods and with fresh crusty bread & dips and tin carafes of wine you are sure to enjoy a tasty meal in unpretentious surroundings. Don't be alarmed by the amount of guests; the service is exceptionally quick and. we've never waited more than 5 minutes for a table. Click here for more info.
As with everything on Mykonos, the selection of places to eat is vast, from sophisticated restaurants, where you can sample gourmet recipes, to casual tavernas serving mouthwatering traditional food and Mykonian specialities. All you have to do is choose the place that's rights for you. These were a couple of our favourites but you can discover a further array of other places to suit you if you click on the button. Or..... simply wander through town and see what draws you in.
Kali Orexi !
The Food
The Nightlife
Why should the evenings be any different?. There is an abundance of things to do, places to visit and people to meet and certainly far too many to all be listed here. So, we've chosen to highlight a selection of places that span a varied range of tastes. Click on the links and enjoy!
