Whether spring, summer, or autumn, Mykonos welcomes visitors with a distinctive festive breeze and an inviting, cosmopolitan atmosphere. That aside, the charms of traditional Cycladic architecture and the many choices to get to know Mykonos a tad better without driving endless hours to get from one popular attraction to the other help fit a whole lot in a single-day Mykonos escapade. If this has been part of your plans for quite some time, this guide will fill your itinerary with all the fun and enjoyment 24 hours in Mykonos can provide.
- Start the Day With an Old Port Breakfast
The Old Port gathers a nice selection of cafes serving breakfast while offering unobstructed views of the sea and port with the traditional fishermen boats. From a variety of coffees and fresh juices to snacks, you can pump up your body with all the needed energy for the adventures to come. And, don’t be surprised if you see lots of local people parading from the Old Port in the early morning hours. A small market takes place every day, enabling them to buy veggies and fresh fish!
- Visit the Most Photographed Landmarks
Within a very short walking distance from the Old Port lies Panagia Paraportiani church – an imposing edifice sitting in the Mykonos medieval castle. The reason why it is featured in most Mykonos postcards and Instagram shots is the fact that it consists of five smaller chapels. No wonder this unusual architectural complex is included in every Mykonos sightseeing tour.
Other than that, you can take a walk up the hill and visit the Windmills to capture amazing views of the Aegean Sea. The Windmills themselves are a sight on their own for their peculiar shape and special appeal. The same applies to the Armenistis Lighthouse, the Gyzi Castle, and the Ftelia neolithic settlement. However, it would be difficult to see all of them in a single day unless you do nothing else but sightseeing.
- Hit the nearby beach
Heading north from the island’s capital, you will find your way to Kalo Livadi beach, one of the most beautiful sugary shores in Mykonos. Expect calm and warm waters from late May through early October and an organised beach with bars serving delicious cocktails, snacks, and lunches. Also, lots of tourist facilities. It’s this proximity to Mykonos Town and its lux factor that appeals to celebs and a-lists from the international jet set, who have made Kalo Livadi beach one of their Mykonos favourites.
Tip: If you have time to visit one more shore, we recommend Super Paradise Beach for its lively feel and party vibes.
- Watch the sunset at Little Venice or Ornos Bay
The time around sunset should definitely find you at Little Venice or Ornos Bay. These idyllic Mykonos regions offer supreme views of the descending sun. Plus, you have the chance to enjoy a refreshing drink or fruit punch at a coastal location. You could even opt for a private dinner from a privately-owned beachfront venue or onboard an elegant yacht provided by a luxury hotel like Kivotos Mykonos at Ornos region.
All in all, in Little Venice’s case, colourful houses turned into cafes and bars will inject your evening with some romance. Ornos Bay, on the other hand, is a scenic area with magnificent seascapes. The choice is yours!
Now, if you want to continue your Mykonos-by-night explorations, the night is still young even after sunset! Feel free to pamper yourself with local dishes (from Greek street food to gourmet tastes), join a party, watch a drag show, or even go shopping at prestigious Matoyianni street at the heart of the island. Nothing sleeps in Mykonos! Enjoy!
