Mykonos – Overhyped Destination or Not to be Missed?
After a surprisingly wonderful couple of days in Athens, it was time for Kelli and I to set sail (or ferry) for Mykonos. Mykonos would be the first of 3 Cyclades island destinations. When we created our itinerary, we were skeptical about dedicating time to Mykonos because it gets such mixed reviews. Many travel bloggers say to skip it, it’s crowded, touristy and overhyped. Others list is as one of their favorites for it’s beauty, activities and nightlife (after all, it is the most visited of the islands). Well we weren’t looking for nightlife but we could not skip it either…so one night it was!
How to Get From Athens to Mykonos
The most common way to get to Mykonos is the ferry, although flights are readily available. We opted for a ferry, mainly for ease, but also for the Aegean views and to see other islands along the way. This would be our first ferry experience in Greece. We had a very early (still dark) departure from Piraeus Port in Athens on WorldChampion Jet. We had no way of knowing at this point, but this would be the easiest, most efficient embarkation of the trip.
If you want to know all things ferry, go read this fantastically informative blog by our friend Steven, The Thorough Tripper: Riding the Blue Star Ferry to a Greek Island. Spoiler alert…we will find out after trying 4 different ferry lines, that Blue Star was indeed, the best.
Where to Stay in Mykonos
Mykonos is the most visited of the Cycladic Islands and it really is quite a large island (relatively speaking, of course). When looking at hotels, it is a bit overwhelming. I’m going to narrow it down to 2 locations you’ll be choosing from – Chora (or Mykonos Town) or any of the beach towns along the southern/southwest coast. Of course there are some 5*, insanely gorgeous hotels nearer Tourlos/Agios Stefanos (close to the port) and in Elia, on the South/East coast.
Since we were only spending one night, we chose Chora. We wanted a hotel in town with a fairly quick and easy walk to the sights. Additionally, we had a sunset cruise out of Ornos, one of the picturesque southern coastal villages so we were able to see that as well.
We chose Vencia Boutique Hotel and it was perfect. The service was impeccable, the room was amazing and the views were incredible.
Exploring Mykonos Town (Chora)
Our ferry arrived in Toulos (the new port) fairly early and we had a driver (arranged by the hotel) waiting for us. Tip: most hotels will arrange transportation upon request and for a small fee. We did this every stay and it took so much stress away – ferry terminals are chaotic (at best) so having pre-arranged shuttles just made it easier.
We dropped out bags – and our jaws when we saw our room and the spectacular views! It was tempting to stick around for the hotel pool but we only had the day and the entirety of Chora to explora, haha.
The walkway from the hotel was downhill and well-marked. But whew, it was already hot!
Keep in mind that we had only seen Athens until this point. So the charming alleys with their cobblestone streets, overhanging bougainvillea and colorful shutters were captivating. In the back of my mind, I wondered if all of the beautiful Instagram photos were exaggerated or if they would be ruined by crowds? Needless to say, I was not disappointed. I fell immediately in love with this little town.
Mykonos Windmills
We made our way to one of the most iconic spots in Mykonos, the Mykonos Windmills. These flour mills are the most notable landmark in town – visible from most every point. They are very cool architecturally (and it turns out they have a version of them on most of the Cyclades). There are windmills available to stay in and I really, really wanted to do this but none were available during our stay.
After some requests…this is the hotel I was interested in but there are some Airbnb opportunities as well. Absolute Mykonos Traditional Windmill
Little Venice
I already mentioned it was hot! And it was September…I can’t imagine how August was! We stepped into a little seaside bar to have a drink and get out of the heat. It turned out to be a wonderful break. The views of Little Venice and the Windmills were wonderful. We chatted with people around us and then there was a visit from a local celebrity! Petros the Pelican. So much fun!
Back to the Hotel
After a delicious lunch, unfortunately, we were running short on time. We didn’t have time to get to the one other “must see” on my list. The Panagia Paraportiani – the whitewashed complex of 5 churches, built between the 15th and 17th centuries.
We had reservations for a sunset cruise and we were excited for our first Mykonos sunset.
Sunset Cruise
Now, I have done many, many sunset cruises and this was a unique experience. After a bit of confusion about which port we were leaving from, we arrived at Ornos beach to meet our tour group. I would say there were 25 people or so, and the boat was not yet there. We waited a bit before an old fishing boat pulled up and they ushered us onboard. Were they shuttling us to a bigger boat? What was happening?
As people started getting on board, it was very clear that there were not seats for everyone. So…you sit on the “roof” of the below deck quarters. Really!! Not sure how the captain was going to see around the 10-ish of us on the roof in front of him but we were there to trust the process. People were silent. I’m not sure anyone thought this was what they signed up for.
Not long after we got going, the tour guide started popping corks and pouring champagne. Then people loosened up. Chatting (Kelli made a new friend who spilled his life story), singing along to the music, moods were definitely improved.
We cruised out of the bay at Ornos and around the coastline. It was spectacular. The sun was setting, the island was beautiful, the water was relaxing and everyone was so happy (could have been the champagne at this point)!
Late Dinner in Ornos
After the cruise, we had some time before our driver came back for us and we needed to eat! This part of Mykonos was very beach club and resort-y. These hotels would be amazing if you were looking for some relaxation and beach time. And I’m sure these places are super fun at night, in season. It was pretty deserted on this night. We found a sushi place, Kuzina. It was delicious and just the right bite after a beautiful evening on the water.
Goodbye to Mykonos and Vencia
We arrived back at our hotel and decided to grab some drinks and soak in the view before we left in the morning. I cannot say enough good things about the Vencia hotel, and I can wholeheartedly say I loved Mykonos. I know there was a lot we did not experience and I think another night would have been the perfect amount of time.
The next morning we would be heading back to the ferry, onward to Paros. It was a horrible experience, so I’m going to leave this here and finish that story in the next post!
More Adventures in Greece
20 Comments
Laura
Wow, Greece. That is on my to see list for sure. I just love the clean, white-washed look. If you say it is hot in September, I will keep that in mind. Whenever I do make the trip, I will certainly plan for at least 2 nights. Thanks for the tips!
Big Sister
Mykonos was beautiful, for sure! I hope you get to make the trip sometime!
Ryan Biddulph
Gorgeous guys, just gorgeous. My wife Kelli and I visited Crete in January. The seaside towns there look almost identical to Mykonos in terms of topography and also the design. I see ample parallels. I imagine the heat was something! We experienced days in the mid 70’s during the heart of winter some days. But then, temps also dropped to the 30’s on a few select evenings. Excellent post!
Ryan
Big Sister
Thank you so much! Crete was on our short list but it seemed to require quite a bit of time to do it justice. I think that’s where the next trip to Greece will be!
Barry Till
This is a great introduction to the island. Like you I’ve so far avoided the Greek islands, especially one like Mykonos, because of the stories of the overcrowding and tackiness that many can portray.
Your pictures show a different side to that and those white-washed houses and stone streets are delightful.
Great recommendation in the place you stayed too.
I think I will do the same as you and go off-season to avoid the crowds and intense heat (I’m not much of a beach person anyhow).
The ferry rides look exciting and I’m a big fan of water journeys. I would defo look at travelling lots between the islands by this means.
Big Sister
The shoulder season definitely seemed to be the time to go to the Greek Islands. There were still crowds but not like I hear they are in the summer. Ferry crowds were a mess, I cannot even imagine in the peak season.
Flavia @latinatraveler
I’ve heard and read so many mixed reviews of Mykonos depending on people’s interests. I’ve always been curious though and believe every place should at least be visited once. Thanks for sharing your input! I think based off your post it seems I should go later September as I love the warmth but not when it’s too hot.
Big Sister
I completely agree with you, every place should be visited at least once! I’m glad to have gone, and would gladly go back to accompany my sister or friends who hadn’t been. I am now planning on visiting new islands next trip.
Lyn (aka Jazz)
Mykonos is beautiful and so iconically Cycladic. I agree with you the Blue Star ferry is the best of the ferry lines, for an island hopping trip. The last time I was there was the height of summer — and very hot. I spent a delightful afternoon sitting on a balcony in Little Italy that had a similar view as your photo. Thanks for the great memories!
Big Sister
Thank you for reading, I’m glad to stir up some memories! I can imagine how hot summer was, whew!
Paul (Paul Passing Through)
It’s kind of funny. I had no idea Mykonos had an iffy reputation until I started blogging. It shows how much influence listiscles have on people because all you see at surface level are the pretty beaches and buildings. Anywho…It’s neat you can stay in some of those windmills. I had never heard that. I know you said they were booked, but were you able to see how much they cost? Also, your view from the hotel looks stunning!
Big Sister
After your comment, I went back and added a link in the post to the Absolute Mykonos hotel with the windmill (this is the one I wanted to stay in) but there are other hotels in Mykonos (and other islands, I’m sure) plus Airbnb properties.
Mitch - Very Tasty World
I didn’t know much about Mykonos before reading this post. We would love to visit Greece and its islands at some point but would prefer to go out of season. Mykonos is a very pretty place and the windmills are just adorable – we’d definitely want to stay in one if possible. Presumably you have to book quite a long time in advance? The sunset cruise sounded slightly chaotic but the views were lovely. Great tips about visiting too.
Big Sister
LOL, after my one day visit, I’m not sure I know much about Mykonos! After your comment, I went back and added a link in the post to the Absolute Mykonos Hotel (with the windmill I wanted to stay in). There are other hotels and Airbnbs that offer the same type of rental. Thanks so much for reading!
Carolin
Whenever I see the question “worth it or completely overhyped?” I do tend to assume it is the latter. So I stat reading, and I get to your exquisit pictures of Mykonos’s quaint alley, all dream-like white-washed with a contrast to the deep blue of the cloudless skies. I am sold! And there was no more convincing on your side from reading further on. I’m glad you also agree and loved your stay in Mykonos. Thanks for taking me here virtually.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
Big Sister
I’m so glad the pictures captured you! I was pleasantly surprised at Mykonos’ charm. Not that it doesn’t mean that it wasn’t overhyped, haha.
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Tamshuk
Mykonos might be overhyped in recent times but I consider it a must visit, irrespective of the tourism scene there now. The views from some of the places are just magical and so are the sunsets. Agreed it does get a bit crowded during sunsets but the views are worth it I suppose. Definitely a must visit at least once.
Tiffany Pence
Your pictures are gorgeous and sounds like you had a lot of fun in just one day. I’m researching Greece and its islands, and I also have heard mixed reviews about Mykonos and Santorini. Definitely off-season is the way to go. Top of ly list right now are Crete, Corfu, and Kafalonia.