Mykonos

The dazzling whitewashed heart of Mykonos — a labyrinthine maze of Cycladic alleys, bougainvillea-draped doorways, and the iconic waterfront Alefkandra quarter known as Little Venice, where colourful wooden balconies jut out directly over the Aegean.

Seven iconic 16th-century Venetian windmills perched on the hill above Mykonos Town — the defining symbol of the island and one of the most photographed views in all of Greece, with sweeping panoramas over Chora and the Aegean.

One of the most important ancient sites in the Mediterranean — the sacred birthplace of Apollo, with extraordinary ruins including the Avenue of Lions, a complete ancient theatre, and opulent Roman mosaics. Accessible only by ferry from Mykonos.

The most photographed church in Greece — a surreal snow-white asymmetrical complex of five fused chapels built over 200 years in the Kastro quarter of Mykonos Town. An extraordinary piece of vernacular architecture.

The best fish taverna in Mykonos Town — daily-caught fish grilled simply with lemon and olive oil. No fancy decor, all substance. A beloved institution among those who know the island beyond the glamour.

Mykonos's finest contemporary Greek restaurant — creative takes on traditional Cycladic cooking using premium island ingredients. Elegant, intimate setting in the heart of Chora with exceptional service.

The best-value proper Greek meal on the island — away from the tourist circuit, this family-run taverna in the Drafaki area serves enormous portions of fresh fish and traditional mezze at completely honest prices.

The best €3.50 you'll spend in Mykonos — a proper pita gyros stuffed with grilled pork, tzatziki, and tomatoes on the main market street in Chora. Beloved by locals as the essential post-beach lunch.

The most spectacular bar location in Mykonos — tables jutting out directly over the sea in Little Venice, with waves washing beneath you and the windmills glowing across the bay at sunset. An essential Mykonos experience.

Mykonos Town's most popular late-night party venue — a two-storey outdoor bar in the heart of Chora that has been running since 1978. The crowd ranges from young Greeks to seasoned party veterans.

A classic Little Venice sunset bar known for playing opera and classical music during golden hour — a more refined alternative to the cocktail-and-party bars nearby, with front seats that offer the quintessential Mykonos view.

Excellent Greek coffee and fresh bougatsa (custard pastry) in the heart of Chora — a proper local café rather than a tourist operation. The freddo cappuccino is the finest morning drink in the Cyclades.

The famous club-café above Paradise Beach — worth visiting in daylight for the extraordinary panoramic view across the Aegean even if you are not clubbing. The daytime café vibe is relaxed and unhurried.

The most famous beach on the island — a beautiful crescent bay with crystal clear turquoise water and lively beach bars. Accessible by regular bus and boat from Mykonos Town.

The longest and arguably most beautiful beach on the island — fine white sand, crystal water, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Paradise. An excellent beach bar and restaurant on site.

The best unspoiled beach on Mykonos — no sunbeds, no bar, no music, just pure nature and extraordinary clear water. A favourite of those in the know. The legendary taverna Kiki's at the far end serves grilled fish at lunch.

Boats to the sacred ancient island of Delos depart from the Old Port hourly in the morning. Hire a guide on the island or use the free Greek government Delos AR app for a self-guided audio tour of one of antiquity's most important sites.

A sunset sailing cruise around the island with swimming stops, BBQ, and open bar — one of the finest experiences in the Cyclades. Small local operators at the Old Port offer the best price and most authentic atmosphere.

The best way to understand Mykonos beyond the beaches and clubs — a knowledgeable guide leads you through the Venetian kastro, the five churches, and the back lanes to sample local loukoumades, cheese, and wines.