If you are wondering how many days you should spend in Mykonos, keep in mind that it all depends on how many days you have available. Although the cosmopolitan island has a lot to offer and even more to see, it is possible to explore the island and enjoy yourself in three days if you are island-hopping. If you want relaxing holidays, five days would be ideal for you to not only stroll around and discover its beauty but to find the time to recharge as well.
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How Many Days Should You Stay in Mykonos?
What to do in Mykonos
There are countless possibilities for a lot of fun and sightseeing on the island. Picturesque yet cosmopolitan and luxurious, Mykonos combines it all and the experience of your visit is bound to be unforgettable! From all-day-partying at the famous beaches of Psarrou, Super Paradise, or Nammos to enjoying breathtaking views in the idyllic Little Venice, here are some of the highlights of what to do in Mykonos:
- Stroll around Mykonos alleyways and Matogiannia Street
- Enjoy the Sunset at Little Venice
- Swim at Super Paradise beach
- Visit the famous Windmills
- Party at Cavo Doro
- Do watersports at Platis Gialos beach
- Go sightseeing to the Church of Panagia Paraportiani
- Enjoy the view from Armenistis Lighthouse
- Visit the Archaeological and Folklore Museum
- Visit ‘Dio Horia’ Art Gallery
- Take a romantic walk at the Old Harbour
- Take a trip to ancient and sacred Delos Island
How to spend 1 day in Mykonos
Mykonos is a very trendy destination for cruises, so can have the chance to spend 1 day in Mykonos if you are a cruise passenger. Although the time you’ll have is limited, there are still ways to explore enough, if you follow my one-day Mykonos itinerary.
You will arrive at Tourlos port, and the options are yours; you can hire a car, get the bus or a private transfer, or join a guided tour!
The highlight of Mykonos is the historical windmills, 16 traditional white-washed mills of picturesque beauty, scattered around the island. You can visit the mills, first thing once you set foot on the island to take amazing shots and enjoy the view.
The most famous spot is “Kato Myloi” or ‘lower windmills’, where 5 mills stand imposingly offering unforgettable scenery. Another windmill worth visiting is Boni Windmill in Apano Myloi, which is also a part of an outdoor agricultural museum presenting traditional architecture. It has panoramic views over the lovely white-washed houses and the endless Aegean blue.
- Stroll the alleys of Mykonos Town
There is no greater delight than strolling around Mykonos, with its narrow alleys, stone-paved and white-washed to match the Mykonian style of architecture. Each corner is another surprise with bougainvillea, cobalt blue details, and an amazing atmosphere.
If you are in the mood for some shopping, visit Matogiannis Street or else Matogiania, with amazing boutiques and stores to buy souvenirs.
- Visit Little Venice
Another popular spot to visit on the island is Little Venice, also known as Alefkandra, a lovely seaside spot with countless bars, restaurants, and taverns, to try local cuisine, grab a cocktail, and enjoy the serene views.
This spot is most known for the beautiful sunsets, so make sure you experience it on your day in Mykonos!
- Visit Panagia Paraportiani
There are over 600 beaches in Mykonos, but the one you shouldn’t miss is Panagia Paraportiani. The all-white, traditional stone church is one of the most photographed churches of the island, conveniently located just outside Mykonos Town’s entrance.
This historical church is a palimpsest since it consists of 5 actual churches built on top of the other.
Depending on how much you have available you can also do a half-day trip to the archaeological site of Delos island nearby, or spend some time relaxing on a beach.
How to spend 2 days in Mykonos
If you have time to spend 2 days in Mykonos, that means that you have to find a suitable location to spend the night. Depending on what you want to visit or how you want to spend the days, you could choose accommodation in Mykonos Town center for proximity to many sites and for partying, or stay at Ornos if you are a family and need some peace and quiet during the night.
Along with the spots mentioned on your 1 day in Mykonos, you can also:
- Head for a swim at the beach
Your second day on the island will give you plenty of time to explore the beaches of Mykonos. There are countless options you could choose from, all depending on your mood.
If you wish to party or meet people and have fun at the beach you should consider Super Paradise or Paradise beach. Psarrou is also known as a popular beach for partying. If you want to relax by the beach with all I mean it is provided, visit Kalo Livadi. For water sports, consider Platis Gialos, but if you want to avoid the crowds then Ftelia and Fokos are ideal for you.
- Take a boat trip to Delos
The whole island of Delos is a site of priceless value for ancient Greek history. That’s why it is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mythologically, it is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The archaeological site of Delos features ancient buildings and artifacts, and the Archaeological Museum of Delos.
The site is closed on Mondays, and it is best to book the morning tour because it closes at 3 pm daily, when the last ship departs. The price for the boat trip is 20 Euros for return tickets, and the ticket to the museum is 12 Euros for the full price and 6 Euros half-price.
Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour. These are the two best options, The Original Morning Delos Guided Tour is a fantastic option if you want to explore during the morning. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide, and you will travel in pure comfort by boat from Mykonos to Delos. Alternatively, you could try The Original Evening Delos Guided Tour, which offers an excellent service in the evening.
How to spend 3 days in Mykonos
Use your third day in Mykonos to explore the museums in town or spend more time on the beach. The two overnight stays will also allow you more time to experience the nightlife!
- Visit the Museums
You can spare some time to get to know Mykonos culture and History by visiting its museums. You can marvel at findings from the Prehistoric to the Hellenistic period in the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, found in town.
If you want to explore the folklore elements, visit the Folklore Museum established in 1858 with 18th-century exhibits found in the former house of a sea captain.
Alternatively, there is a Maritime Museum, also located in Mykonos Town, with nautical instruments, tools, and exhibits.
- Watch the sunset at Armenistis Lighthouse
Apart from the sunset at Little Venice, another popular spot to visit is Armenistis Lighthouse, with breathtaking views over the Aegean. The lighthouse is built in 1891 and has a view of Tinos Island on the northwest coast of Mykonos.
- Enjoy Nightlife
The highlight of the island is the vibrant nightlife, with bars, clubs, and parties all day round during the summer months. Begin your evening with a romantic stroll at the Old Harbour, and as the night progresses, choose your preferred bars: party at Nammos, visit the Scandinavian Bar or Cavo Paradiso.
How to spend 4+ days in Mykonos
If you have the luxury of time in Mykonos, visit off-the-beaten-path places during the mornings. Take your time by relaxing at the beach and staying out until sunrise! Your choices are endless:
- Visit Ano Mera: the traditional gem of a village found in the inland, with traditional architecture and a historical 16th-century monastery of Panagia Tourliani
- Go on a bike tour: Discover the beauty of the Mykonian landscape on a bike, by renting a bike on your own or better yet booking the bicycle tour with Yummy Pedals. There are various routes and itineraries, depending on your level of expertise.
- Try the wine tasting experience: Experience the ultimate agricultural life at Vioma, an organic farm that offers wine tasting sessions along with traditional delicacies!
- Take a tour at pristine Rhenia Island: There are countless options for daily boat trips around the untouched islands. Swim in crystal-clear waters, enjoy your drink on board, or go snorkeling!
Planning a trip to Mykonos? You might be interested in:
Islands to visit near Mykonos
How to get from Athens to Mykonos