1. Beach Hopping the South Coast by Water Taxi

If you only do one thing in Mykonos, make it the south-coast water taxi circuit. This chain of beaches, sheltered from the meltemi wind by the island's southern hillside, runs from Platis Gialos in the west to Elia in the east. Small caique boats shuttle between them every 20 to 30 minutes during peak season (late May through September), and a single hop costs around 5 to 8 euros. The beauty of this system is spontaneity: you never need to commit to one beach for the entire day.

Start at Platis Gialos, where the taxi boats depart from a small jetty at the western end of the sand. Platis Gialos itself is a family-friendly crescent with calm, shallow water and a row of tavernas. From here, the first stop is Paraga, a cove split into two stretches, one lively and one low key, that serves as a good warm-up for what lies ahead. Next comes Paradise Beach, famous for its afternoon parties and open-air beats. Even if clubbing is not your scene, the energy here is worth experiencing for an hour, cocktail in hand.

Continue east to Super Paradise, where the water shifts to an almost Caribbean shade of teal and the crowd skews glamorous. The beach bar here serves surprisingly good food alongside the music. Finally, the circuit ends at Elia, the longest beach on the island and the most relaxed of the lot. Elia is the perfect place to close out the afternoon with a long lunch at one of the seaside tavernas before catching the last water taxi back. For a deep dive into club-backed stretches, see our guide to the 11 best beach clubs in Mykonos.

Pro tip: Bring a dry bag for your phone and wallet. The water taxis pull right up to the shoreline, and you will wade in ankle-deep water getting on and off. A pair of water shoes or sport sandals makes the hop smoother. Also, pack your own sunscreen in a reusable pouch to avoid paying resort prices. For packing essentials, our what to pack for Mykonos guide covers everything you need.

2. Day Trip to Delos, the Sacred Island

Anchored just 30 minutes by boat from Mykonos Town, Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. According to Greek mythology, this tiny, uninhabited island was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and for centuries it served as a major religious sanctuary and thriving commercial port. Today it is an open-air museum where marble lions still guard a sacred lake, 2,000 year old mosaics retain vivid colour, and ancient streets reveal the layout of a cosmopolitan city that once rivalled Athens in wealth.

Ferries depart from the old port in Mykonos Town several times each morning, with the last return boat usually leaving Delos around 3:00 PM (exact times shift by season, so confirm the day before). Budget at least three hours on the island; four to five is better if you enjoy archaeology. Entry to the site costs approximately 12 euros (separate from the ferry ticket), and an audio guide or licensed human guide is well worth the investment, as the ruins tell a much richer story with expert narration. Wear a hat, bring plenty of water, and lather on sunscreen: there is virtually no shade on Delos, and the Cycladic sun reflects off white marble with blinding force.

Highlights not to miss include the Terrace of the Lions, the House of Dionysus (home to a stunning mosaic of the god riding a panther), the Theatre Quarter with its narrow residential streets, and the small but excellent on-site museum. If your group wants a more exclusive experience, a private boat charter can combine the Delos visit with a swimming stop at the neighbouring islet of Rhenia, where the water is crystalline and the beaches deserted. Work this day trip into your schedule using our 3 to 7 day Mykonos itinerary.

3. Wander Through Mykonos Town (Chora)

Getting lost in Mykonos Town is not just likely, it is practically mandatory, and that is exactly the point. The maze of narrow alleys was deliberately designed to confuse invading pirates, and centuries later it still confounds Google Maps. Put your phone away, step off Matoyianni Street (the main shopping artery), and let the lanes lead you. Around almost every corner you will find bougainvillea cascading over a blue door, a cat dozing on a sunlit step, or a hidden courtyard cafe serving thick Greek coffee.

Key landmarks to seek out include the Paraportiani Church, a whitewashed cluster of five merged chapels that looks like a piece of sculpted meringue perched at the edge of the old kastro neighbourhood. Nearby, the waterfront opens onto Little Venice, a row of 18th century captains' houses built directly over the sea. The ground floors of many now serve as cocktail bars, and the area draws crowds at sunset for good reason. Walk east along the waterfront and you reach the iconic windmills, a row of thatched, cylindrical structures that once ground grain for export. For a full lay of the land, our Mykonos travel guide maps out each neighbourhood.

Timing matters: Mykonos Town is most enjoyable in the early morning (before 10 AM, when cruise ship passengers arrive) or in the golden hour before sunset. Mid-afternoon can be punishingly hot in July and August, so save those hours for the pool at your private villa or an air-conditioned boutique browse. Evening is magical: fairy lights come on, restaurants set tables on the cobblestones, and the labyrinth transforms into one of the most atmospheric places to dine in all of Greece. See our restaurant guide for where to book a table.

4. Spend a Day at the Best Beach Clubs

Mykonos essentially invented the luxury beach club concept, and the island's lineup in 2026 remains the benchmark for the Mediterranean. Whether you want a high-energy party scene, a boho-chic lounge, or a family-friendly stretch with waiter service, there is a club tailored to your mood. Our detailed breakdown of the 11 best beach clubs in Mykonos ranks each venue, but here is the headline summary.

Nammos at Psarou Beach is the island's most glamorous address, where superyacht owners mingle with fashion crowds over champagne and sushi. Expect premium prices but impeccable service and an unforgettable atmosphere. At the opposite end of the energy spectrum, Scorpios in Paraga offers a barefoot bohemian vibe, natural-material architecture, and sunset DJ sets that feel more like a ritual than a party. The food here, a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern mezze, is genuinely outstanding.

SantAnna on Paraga Beach blends pool-club energy with beachfront lounging, serving wood-fired pizzas and cocktails in equal measure, a solid middle ground for groups with mixed tastes. And for pure throwback party vibes, Tropicana on Paradise Beach has been going strong for decades, drawing crowds with afternoon DJ sets that roll well into the evening.

Booking tip: In peak season (July and August), reserve your sunbeds at least a day in advance, especially at Nammos and Scorpios. Most clubs accept bookings through WhatsApp or their website. A front-row bed at the top-tier venues will cost anywhere from 100 to 300 euros for two people, often with a food and drink minimum that counts toward the total. Want to plan around the best weather windows? Check our best time to visit Mykonos breakdown for crowd levels and wind patterns month by month.

5. Watch the Sunset at Little Venice or 180 Degrees Bar

Sunset watching is practically a sport on Mykonos, and two spots compete for the gold medal. Little Venice is the classic choice: a row of colourful waterfront buildings whose balcony bars place you within arm's reach of the waves as the sun drops below the Aegean horizon. Grab a table at Galleraki, Caprice, or Scarpa, order an Aperol spritz or a glass of Assyrtiko, and settle in around 45 minutes before sundown to secure a prime seat. The panorama sweeps west across open sea, and the light shifts through amber, rose, and violet in a display that never quite repeats itself.

For a more contemporary setting, 180 Degrees Sunset Bar sits on a hillside terrace above the old town, offering a wider-angle view that takes in the windmills, the harbour, and the sea in a single frame. The cocktails lean creative (think smoked rosemary and Greek honey twists on classics), and a DJ provides a subtle soundtrack that builds as the sky changes colour. It is slightly easier to score a table here than at the most popular Little Venice spots, especially if you arrive by 6:30 PM in summer.

Planning note: sunset times in Mykonos range from roughly 5:30 PM in early May to 8:45 PM at the summer solstice, then back to 7:30 PM by late September. Wind can be a factor too. On strong meltemi days, the spray at Little Venice adds drama but can soak your table. If the wind is howling, 180 Degrees' sheltered terrace is the better bet. Either way, make sunset a daily ritual rather than a one-off event. Each evening delivers something different, and you will never regret the time spent watching. More tips on planning your days around island highlights live in our ultimate Mykonos itinerary.

6. Take a Boat Tour Around the Island

Seeing Mykonos from the water changes your entire perspective. The south coast's famous beaches look even more spectacular from sea level, while the wilder north coast reveals dramatic cliff faces, hidden caves, and secluded coves that are virtually inaccessible by land. A half-day or full-day boat excursion is one of the most memorable things you can do on the island, and options range from budget-friendly shared catamarans to full-blown private yacht charters.

A typical shared catamaran cruise runs around five hours, includes lunch, open bar, snorkelling stops, and a Delos or Rhenia swim, and costs in the range of 100 to 180 euros per person. These trips depart from the old port or the new port and suit couples or small groups who want the experience without the premium price tag. For larger parties, a private yacht charter lets you set the itinerary entirely, from a morning dip at Kapari cove to a sunset champagne toast off the coast of Agios Sostis. A private charter for 8 to 12 guests typically starts around 2,500 euros for a half day, crew and catering included.

Our concierge team works with a curated selection of local operators and can arrange everything from a luxury motor yacht to a traditional wooden caique. Let them know your group size, preferred date, and what you would like to include (snorkelling gear, paddleboards, fishing equipment, Delos landing), and they will handle the rest. If you are staying in one of our Mykonos villas, they can even coordinate a dock-side pickup.

7. Explore the Peaceful Village of Ano Mera

Drive ten minutes inland from the south-coast beaches and the energy shifts completely. Ano Mera is Mykonos's second settlement and its spiritual heart, centred on a broad, tree-shaded square where elderly locals play backgammon and cats patrol the perimeter of outdoor tavernas. Life here moves at a pace that the south coast forgot existed, and a visit offers a necessary counterweight to the island's glossier side.

The main attraction is the Panagia Tourliani Monastery, founded in the 16th century and recognisable by its red dome and ornate marble fountain. Step inside to admire carved wooden iconostasis screens, Byzantine icons, and a courtyard cooled by shade trees. Modest dress is required (covered shoulders and knees), so throw a light wrap in your bag. The monastery is open to visitors most mornings and is free to enter, though a small donation is appreciated.

After the monastery, linger in the square for a slow lunch. Tavernas here serve some of the most authentic Mykonian food on the island at a fraction of beach-club prices. Try louza (air-dried pork loin seasoned with pepper and clove), kopanisti (a spicy whipped cheese unique to the Cyclades), and whatever fresh fish the kitchen has that morning. For more restaurant picks across the island, check our where to eat in Mykonos guide. Pair your Ano Mera morning with an afternoon at nearby Kalafatis Beach for a perfect east-side day.

8. Take a Traditional Greek Cooking Class

If eating your way through Mykonos is a highlight (and it should be), a cooking class takes the experience one level deeper. Several local operators run half-day workshops that begin at the morning market in Mykonos Town, where your host introduces you to vendors selling wild herbs, local cheeses, and seafood still glistening from the net. From there, you head to a traditional kitchen, often in a country house with garden views, and spend three to four hours learning recipes passed down through generations.

Expect to make dishes such as hand-rolled dolmadakia (vine-leaf parcels), spanakopita with hand-stretched phyllo, grilled octopus with a ladolemono dressing, and perhaps a syrup-drenched dessert like loukoumades or galaktoboureko. The best classes are small (eight to ten guests maximum) and interactive, with the chef sharing family anecdotes alongside technique. By the end, you sit down to eat everything you have cooked, usually accompanied by generous pours of local wine.

Prices range from about 90 to 150 euros per person depending on the operator and whether a market visit is included. Book at least a few days in advance during peak season, as slots fill quickly. Our concierge service can recommend the best class for your group and handle the reservation. It is a particularly good activity for a morning when you want something enriching before an afternoon at the beach or the pool of your Mykonos villa.

9. Go Scuba Diving or Snorkelling

The same Aegean clarity that makes Mykonos beaches photogenic also makes the underwater world spectacular. Visibility regularly exceeds 30 metres, and the seabed around the island features volcanic rock formations, swim-through caves, vibrant sponges, and an abundance of marine life including octopus, moray eels, barracuda, and the occasional Mediterranean monk seal in more remote areas.

Several PADI-certified dive centres operate on the island, with popular sites including the reef off Paradise Beach, the underwater caves near Dragonisi islet (a short boat ride east), and the wall dives along the northern coast. A single guided dive costs roughly 60 to 90 euros for certified divers, while a half-day Discover Scuba experience for beginners runs around 100 to 130 euros. Most centres provide all equipment and offer morning and afternoon departures.

Prefer to stay closer to the surface? Snorkelling is superb at several south-coast beaches, particularly at the rocky edges of Paraga and Agia Anna, where shallow reef meets clear water. Bring your own mask and fins (or rent them for a few euros) and explore at your own pace. For families with children, the calm, shallow waters at Platis Gialos and Ornos are ideal for introducing little ones to snorkelling. Check our best time to visit guide for when water temperatures are warmest and winds calmest.

10. Visit the Iconic Mykonos Windmills

The row of thatched stone windmills perched on the ridge above Mykonos Town is the single most photographed landmark on the island, and for good reason. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century to mill wheat delivered by ships, these cylindrical structures are a striking symbol of the Cyclades and a tangible link to the island's agricultural past. Today, seven of the original sixteen windmills remain standing on the Chora hill, their white bodies stark against the blue sky.

The best time to visit is late afternoon, when the light turns warm and the tourist coaches have moved on. Walk south along the waterfront from Little Venice, and you will arrive at the windmill terrace within five minutes. One windmill, Boni's Mill, occasionally opens as a small museum during summer, offering a glimpse of the internal grinding mechanism and historical photographs of the island. Even when the museum is closed, the exterior terrace is freely accessible and provides one of the best panoramic views of the town, the harbour, and the sea beyond.

Photography tip: shoot from the lower path that approaches from the south-east to include both the windmills and Little Venice in a single composition. At sunset, the warm light gilds the stone beautifully. Pair a windmill visit with a stroll through the kastro quarter and a sunset drink at one of the Little Venice bars for a perfect late-afternoon sequence. For more ideas on structuring your days, explore our Mykonos travel guide.

11. Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard

Mykonos may not rival Santorini in wine fame, but the island has a quiet viticultural heritage that dates back centuries. The arid, wind-swept terroir produces characterful wines with a distinct Cycladic personality, and a handful of small producers have opened their doors to visitors in recent years, offering tastings that combine education, beautiful settings, and very good drinking.

Most tastings take place at boutique estates in the island's interior, where stone-walled vineyards sit among scrubby hills dotted with wild thyme and oregano. You will sample indigenous Greek varieties, Assyrtiko (crisp and mineral), Malagousia (aromatic and floral), and Mandilaria (a robust red), alongside smaller-production blends. The host will walk you through the winemaking process, from the unique low-trained vines designed to survive the meltemi to the gravity-fed pressing that preserves delicate aromas. Platters of local cheese, cured meats, and olives accompany the tasting.

A typical session lasts about 90 minutes, costs 30 to 50 euros per person, and can be arranged through our concierge team. It pairs especially well with an Ano Mera village visit (see above), as several estates sit along the same route. If wine is your thing, ask about pairing a tasting with a private dinner at your villa, where a sommelier can curate bottles to complement a private chef's menu. Check out our events and festivals calendar for any vineyard open days or harvest celebrations during your dates.

12. Hike a Coastal Trail

Mykonos is not generally thought of as a hiking destination, which is exactly why doing it feels like discovering a secret. The island's compact size and relatively gentle terrain mean you can complete a spectacular coastal walk in two to three hours without needing specialist gear or Olympian fitness. The payoff is huge: windswept headlands, tiny chapels, deserted coves you can have entirely to yourself, and views that stretch to Tinos, Naxos, and Paros on a clear day.

The most popular route runs from Mykonos Town to Agios Stefanos lighthouse along the north-western coast. The trail follows old donkey paths and stone walls, passing the quiet beach of Tourlos before climbing to a bluff with sweeping sea views. Another rewarding option is the path from Ano Mera to Fokos Beach on the north coast, a wilder, more rugged walk that ends at a sheltered cove with a single taverna serving grilled fish. Both trails are unmarked in places, so download a GPS track (Wikiloc has several) before you set out.

Best time to hike: early morning (start by 7:30 AM) or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Bring at least a litre of water per person, a hat, and sturdy sandals or trail shoes. The meltemi wind can be fierce on exposed headlands, so check the forecast. For wind and weather patterns by month, see our best time to visit Mykonos guide. After a morning hike, reward yourself with a pool afternoon back at your private villa.

13. Photography Tour of the Old Town

Whether you shoot on a professional mirrorless camera or an iPhone, Mykonos Town is one of the most photogenic places in the world. The interplay of whitewashed walls, vivid blue accents, draped bougainvillea, and raking Mediterranean light creates compositions at practically every turn. A guided photography tour helps you find the best angles, dodge the crowds, and understand the light at different times of day.

Several local photographers offer small-group or private tours lasting two to three hours, typically starting at sunrise or in the late-afternoon golden hour. You will visit hidden corners of the kastro quarter, climb to elevated viewpoints above Little Venice, frame the Paraportiani Church from its most dramatic angle, and learn techniques for capturing motion in narrow alleys (think a cat mid-leap, or a shutter trailing a flowing dress). Even if you do not consider yourself a photographer, these walks reveal parts of the town most visitors never see.

Expect to pay around 80 to 120 euros per person for a group session, or 200 to 300 euros for a private tour. The resulting images make for far better souvenirs than any fridge magnet. Ask our concierge to book one during your stay. Combine it with a visit to one of our Kanalia-area villas for hilltop portraits with panoramic island backdrops.

14. Water Sports: Jet Skiing, Parasailing & Paddleboarding

The south-coast beaches are not just for sunbathing. A cluster of water sports operators set up along Platis Gialos, Elia, and Kalafatis each summer, and the range of activities will keep thrill-seekers busy for days. Jet skiing is the headline act: a 20-minute ride costs roughly 80 to 120 euros and lets you blast along the coast with the wind in your face and the spray at your heels. Guided jet ski tours covering multiple beaches are also available for those who want a longer adventure.

Parasailing lifts you 100 metres above the sea for a bird's-eye view of the coastline, a surprisingly serene experience once you are airborne. Sessions run about 15 minutes and typically cost 60 to 80 euros per person (tandem flights bring the price down). For something calmer, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a wonderful way to explore the coastline at your own pace. Rentals start at about 20 euros per hour, and early-morning sessions, before the wind picks up, offer glass-flat conditions ideal for beginners. Kalafatis Beach is also the island's windsurfing hub, with reliable afternoon winds and a well-established school offering lessons.

Safety note: always check that the operator provides a safety briefing and life jackets. The meltemi wind can strengthen quickly in the afternoon, making conditions choppier than they appeared at noon. If you are visiting with children, the sheltered waters of Ornos and Platis Gialos are the safest bets for water play. Need help choosing gear to bring? Our what to pack for Mykonos list includes water-sports essentials.

15. Book a Private Chef Dinner at Your Villa

After a week of taverna-hopping and beach-club lunches, one of the most special evenings you can have on Mykonos is the one you spend at home, or rather, at your temporary home. A private chef dinner at your villa combines the best local ingredients, expert preparation, and the irreplaceable setting of your own terrace overlooking the Aegean. No queues, no dress codes, no taxis at midnight. Just exceptional food, your favourite people, and a sky full of stars.

Here is how it typically works: your chef arrives in the late afternoon with fresh ingredients sourced that morning from the island's fishmongers, butchers, and farm vendors. While you relax by the pool, they prepare a multi-course menu in your villa's kitchen. Think chilled melon soup with crumbled feta to start, followed by grilled whole sea bream with capers and lemon, slow-braised lamb shoulder with roasted vegetables, and a dessert of walnut baklava or panna cotta infused with Greek honey and thyme. The chef serves each course at your table, explains the dishes, and cleans up afterwards, leaving you with nothing to do but enjoy.

Pricing varies by menu complexity and group size, but expect to spend around 80 to 150 euros per person for a four to six course meal including wine pairing. Our Villa Pads concierge team maintains a roster of vetted chefs who specialise in everything from contemporary Greek cuisine to Italian and pan-Asian cooking. For the ultimate evening, pair the chef experience with a sommelier-curated wine selection and a sunset cocktail hour. Properties like Villa Theodora (ten bedrooms, spectacular pool deck) or Villa Androniki (eight bedrooms, sweeping sea views) are built for exactly this kind of night.

Bonus: How to Fit It All In

Fifteen activities sounds like a lot, but Mykonos rewards both the busy and the lazy. A well-planned five to seven day stay gives you time to tick off the highlights without rushing, leaving room for those spontaneous poolside mornings or unplanned taverna lunches that become the best memories. Our 3, 5, and 7 day Mykonos itinerary maps out a day-by-day schedule you can follow or adapt, and our events and festivals calendar flags any special happenings during your dates.

Here is a sample five-day structure for inspiration:

Day 1: Arrive, settle into your villa, evening stroll through Mykonos Town, sunset at Little Venice, dinner on the waterfront.

Day 2: Morning Delos day trip, afternoon pool time, private chef dinner.

Day 3: Beach-club day (Scorpios or Nammos), sunset at 180 Degrees, late dinner in town.

Day 4: Cooking class in the morning, beach hop the south coast by water taxi, evening at SantAnna.

Day 5: Boat tour with swimming and snorkelling, Ano Mera for lunch, wine tasting, farewell dinner at your villa.

Of course, your schedule should flex around wind, weather, and energy levels. That is the beauty of having a private villa as your base: there is zero pressure to be anywhere at any time. Sleep in, skip a day of activities, or squeeze in an extra excursion. The island will not mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Mykonos for first-time visitors?

Start with the south-coast beach hop, a Delos day trip, a sunset session in Little Venice, and a wander through Mykonos Town. These four activities capture the essence of the island and can easily fill your first two or three days. Add a boat tour and a beach-club afternoon to round out the classic experience.

Is Mykonos good for families, or is it just a party island?

Mykonos is excellent for families. The party scene is concentrated on a few beaches (Paradise and Super Paradise) and in the late-night club district. Everywhere else, the island is welcoming, safe, and full of family-friendly activities like snorkelling, Delos, cooking classes, and calm beaches such as Ornos, Platis Gialos, and Agios Ioannis. A private villa with a pool gives kids their own playground too.

How many days do you need in Mykonos to do everything?

Five to seven days is the sweet spot. Three days covers the highlights at pace, while a week lets you explore deeper, from vineyard visits and coastal hikes to a proper Delos half-day, beach-club days, and relaxing villa time. See our detailed itinerary planner for day-by-day scheduling.

When is the best time to visit Mykonos for activities?

Late May through June and September through mid-October offer warm weather, swimmable seas, and smaller crowds, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. July and August are peak season with the hottest weather, strongest meltemi winds, and biggest party atmosphere. For a full breakdown by month, read our best time to visit Mykonos guide.

Do I need a car in Mykonos?

Not necessarily. The south-coast beaches are connected by water taxis, Mykonos Town is walkable, and taxis and ride-hailing apps cover most routes. However, a rental car or ATV gives you freedom to explore the north coast, Ano Mera, and trailheads without waiting for transport. A villa with parking makes having a car easy and convenient.

What are the best free things to do in Mykonos?

Plenty of the island's best experiences cost nothing. Wandering Mykonos Town, watching sunset at Little Venice, visiting the windmills, swimming at public beaches, hiking coastal trails, and exploring Ano Mera village are all free. The Paraportiani Church and many small chapels are free to enter as well.

Can I book activities through Villa Pads?

Yes. Our concierge team can arrange boat tours, private chefs, cooking classes, wine tastings, diving excursions, and more. The service is complimentary for guests staying in our Mykonos villas. Simply get in touch through our contact page or speak with your concierge upon arrival.

Make Mykonos Unforgettable with Villa Pads

Every activity on this list is better when you have the right home base. A luxury villa in Mykonos gives your group the space, privacy, and comfort to turn a great holiday into an extraordinary one. Wake up to Aegean views from your private terrace, cool off in your infinity pool between adventures, and end the night with a private chef dinner under the stars.

Our collection includes properties for every group size and style. For large celebrations, Villa Theodora (ten bedrooms) and Villa Evogue (nine bedrooms) offer show-stopping entertaining spaces and panoramic sea views. For mid-size groups, Villa Ariadni (eight bedrooms) and Villa Callista (six bedrooms) blend elegant design with effortless island living. Travelling as a couple or a small family? Villa Moonrise (three bedrooms) and Villa Seraphina (four bedrooms) deliver boutique luxury at a more intimate scale.

Every booking includes access to our concierge service, which can arrange everything mentioned in this article and more: airport transfers, yacht charters, restaurant reservations, event tickets, childcare, and bespoke island experiences you will not find in any guidebook. Your perfect Mykonos starts here.