Highlights
Beaches
The beaches on the south shore of the island have the best sand, views and wind protection, and a few, including the famous Paradise Beach, are known as party beaches. Others, such as Platis Gialos and Ornos, are quieter and more popular with families, whilst Agios Ioannis lies in a dramatic bay and featured in the film, ‘Shirley Valentine'.
Culture
For a true taste of Mykonos, stroll around the picturesque waterside area of 'Little Venice' in Mykonos Town, famous for its medieval two and three-storey houses. Boasting colourful wooden balconies and built quite literally over the sea, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Mykonos and a delightful spot to relax with a drink and some mouth-watering Greek food as you enjoy the sea breeze and watch traditional fishing boats drift in to the bay. Afterwards, spot the 18th century whitewashed Church of the Paraportiana, a symbol of the island, or the iconic windmills, as the beautiful sun sets behind them.
Wildlife
Urban legends tell of Petros, the wounded pelican found by a local fisherman who took him home and nursed him to health; supported by the locals, he remained on the island and became its mascot until his sad demise in the 1980s. Happily, his mantle has been taken up by several other pelicans.
Cuisine
Enjoy the bounty of Mykonos in traditional local dishes, including thick, Greek yoghurt drizzled with honey, traditional Mykonian cheese pies, platters heaped with a variety of grilled meats and assortments of ‘meze'. Try horta (cooked greens gathered from the countryside), gemista (usually, rice stuffed tomatoes and green peppers) and briam (a stew).
History
With a rich and fascinating past said to date back to Ancient Greece, Mykonos is a perfect destination for history enthusiasts. Take a scenic boat trip to the nearby island of Delos -believed by the ancients to have been the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and home to an archeological site with sanctuaries and temples - before marvelling at sacred statues from the site in Mykonos’ Archaeological Museum. For some more recent history, the beautiful 16th century Monastery of Panagia Touliani is home to a collection of fascinating Cretan icons.