Mykonos Holidays

The calm and sheltered beaches on the southern coast of Mykonos attract a well-heeled crowd. Platis Yialos, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach near Mykonos Town have the island’s typically golden sands and turquoise seas, while northern beaches such as Agios Sostis are more remote but just as picturesque.

The most popular place to stay on Mykonos is beautiful, bustling Mykonos Town, which effortlessly combines the charm of the old with the excitement of the new.

Another popular resort is neighbouring Ornos, which is a family favourite thanks to its sheltered beach. Or try Plati Yialos for a classy and cosmopolitan vibe.

Most resorts have lovely shops but Mykonos Town is the best place for buying keepsakes and cool new wares.

Wander the narrow streets as you browse the boutiques housed in Mykonos’ trademark white sugar-cube like buildings. The island is famous for its quality leather and jewellery and there are several designer boutiques to swoon over.

The nightlife here is sophisticated and prices can reflect this. You’ll have your choice of bars and restaurants in all resorts but the heart of the action is in Mykonos Town.

Caprice, with its views of the Little Venice area, is a must-stop destination for a sunset cocktail. Astra Bar is another great one, and don’t miss the buzzing beach clubs like Paradise Club.

Wherever you go in Mykonos, you’ll probably be able to spot one of the island’s traditional windmills, used to grind grain in the old days.

The 16 snow-white, spherical windmills, with pointed roofs, are largely located in the Chora neighbourhood and around Alefkandra, some have even been converted into museums.

If you’re looking for romance, head to Little Venice on the edge of the sea in Chora. The colourful waterfront houses, built by ship captains years ago, have been converted to cafes, bars and shops.

Order a bottle of wine, perch yourself on a wooden staircase or taverna patio and enjoy the capitivating views out across the azure Aegean Sea.

Take a cruise to the island of Delos, 40 minutes by boat, the spiritual and political centre of Ancient Greece.

The mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it was rediscovered in the 19th century and visitors flock to see the remains of this ancient city including its marketplace, columns, city squares, the Sanctuary of Apollo, Temple of Isis, synagogue and monumental marble archway.

Consider yourself lucky if you spot a pelican - or three! - near a bar at the harbour. Mykonos’ first feathered mascot emerged 40 years ago when one was rescued half-dead by a fisherman.

The bird's death in 1986 prompted Jackie Kennedy-Onassis to donate another, Irene. She was joined by Petros who can still be spotted solo or in a group on the island. The pelicans are real celebrities on the waterfront and have been the official mascots of Mykonos for years.