City Guide: Mykonos
I shared my Mykonos travel diary with you yesterday, so today I have a cheat sheet for your own future visit. Because I know you want to visit those turquoise waters, yes? Despite its reputation as a party island, Mykonos is the ultimate bohemian paradise in the Mediterranean for a laid-back getaway, whether or not nightclubs and dance parties are your thing!
IN THREE WORDS: bohemian, fashionable, laid-back
WHERE TO STAY: San Giorgio Hotel
MUST SEES: Mykonos Town with its famed windmills and “little Venice,” plus as many beaches as you have time to sunbathe on around the island
BEACHES BY PERSONALITY: Paradise & Super Paradise (party), Paranga & Panormos (chill), Psarou (yacht crowd), Agios Sostis & Ftelia (secluded), Kalafatis (surfer crowd)
DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT: eating lunch at Kiki’s
WHERE TO EAT: Kiki’s above Agios Sostis for freshly grilled lunch; local institution Niko’s for traditional Greek fare; Sea Satin Market for sunset and seafood; Nammos for a trendy outdoor café at Psarou beach
FOOD TO TRY: frappé coffee, octopus, fresh sardines, ouzo, Greek taverna food
BEST PLACE FOR A DRINK: Ai Yianni on Agios Ioannis beach
HOW TO GET AROUND: by car or four-wheeler if you’re brave (but the locals said they’re best avoided to be safe)
GOOD TO KNOW: Mykonos can be very windy. Check with your hotel on wind conditions before you head to certain beaches. Mykonos is also very fashionable. Dress for comfort and style.
WHAT TO PACK: colorful bikinis and a cover-up for day, sundresses or kaftans for night
WHAT TO BRING HOME: silk cord bracelets at Apriati, handmade leather sandals from Mykonos Sandals, breezy sarongs, coffee table book from Atlantis Books at the Belvedere Hotel
WHEN TO GO: High season is July-August. Go in June or September.