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Greece's Best Nightlife
Admittedly, the titles for The Best Greek Islands posts might come across as a bit cheesy. No, they weren't meticulously crafted with hours of contemplation. Yet, why dismiss the cheese when it aptly captures the essence of the islands?
If you happened upon my post about Paros, you'd recall my adventure touring some of the Aegean Sea's most iconic gems with a Bus About group. The islands boast unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, but one cannot overlook the nightlife, a key feature of any Bus About tour, and nothing beats Mykonos when aiming to achieve that accomplishment.
Although the metropolitan island is famous for its nightlife, it is also notorious for fulfilling all your holiday expectations. From families to adrenaline junkies to historical and cultural academics, Mykonos will satisfy your taste buds in every way.
1. The Accommodation
Paradise Beach welcomed us with open arms, and it was bliss. More than just a beach, it's a destination offering both leisure and lodging. Here, you'll find eateries, boutiques, bars, lounges, and even water-based activities. At first glance, it seems like there's no need to venture elsewhere. But then again, why would you want to limit your exploration when there's so much more to discover?
A variety of accommodation options await, catering to every budgetary preference. As thrifty travelers, we chose a modest twin-room cabin priced at €20 per person per night (Update 2024; This price has more than likely doubled). You need to make a booking request, but you can expect these prices to have certainly increased since my last visit.
This was a simple room with possibly the most uncomfortable beds I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Shared bathrooms leave much to be desired. Undoubtedly, not the epitome of luxury for those accustomed to refined living standards. Nevertheless, the accommodation spectrum is wide-ranging, encompassing private apartments to the simplicity of pitching your own tent and camping under the stars. Explore all available options here.
These images were sourced from Bookings.com. Our room was identical to the above.
Despite the discomfort of the beds, the overall experience at the site more than compensates. The beach itself is beautiful, and renowned as one of the island's most iconic. Complimentary sunbeds await, accompanied by the convenience of having food and drinks delivered directly to you from the menu.
It's crucial to recognize that this is a bustling hub where partying, drinking, eating, and even sleeping meet. Families seeking tranquility or individuals yearning for solitude may find this environment less than ideal. However, for groups of friends or couples eager to immerse themselves in the party scene of the island, it's nothing short of perfect. Even if you opt not to stay on-site, a day spent basking on this beach is an experience not to be missed.
2. The Nightlife
Paradise Beach naturally takes the spotlight, given my extensive two-day experience here. Combining the island's most renowned beach with a diverse range of accommodation options, restaurants, and bars, Paradise Beach boasts one of the largest clubs on the entire island.
Guapaloca is a beach bar with live performances and DJ sets. Positioned right on the shoreline, it provides the ideal setting to unwind, dress as you please, dance away those extra calories, and indulge in 2-for-1 cocktail specials. For those lodged at the venue, it's a mere 50 meters to the beach, a few steps to the bar, and a hop away from the restaurants. Your daily step count might suffer, but there's ample opportunity to dance them off in style.
From the bar, we could look directly into the ocean.
Sunset views of the iconic windmills
It's high time we break free from our cocoon and venture into the heart of Mykonos' capital. While my evenings were consumed by Paradise Beach, I recommend perusing The Blonde Abroad's blog for a comprehensive guide to beach parties in the area.
However, I will mention Rhapsody Bar, for delectable cocktails paired with impeccable views. Though it may have slightly strained our budget at the time, the experience was worthwhile.
3. The Sites
Little Venice
Nestled along the waterfront of Mykonos' capital town, Hóra, lies the district of Little Venice. This charming 18th-century area exudes romance and sophistication, with its quaint buildings perched right at the water's edge, adorned with vibrant balconies that add a splash of color to the scene.
Among its notable features is the aforementioned bar, seamlessly integrated into the backdrop of Little Venice. Renowned for offering some of the island's most breathtaking views, it's a prime spot to unwind and soak in the evening. Whether you choose to dine at one of the waterfront restaurants or sip cocktails at a nearby bar, Little Venice promises an unforgettable experience, providing the perfect vantage point to admire the picturesque scenery that unfolds along Hóra's waterfront.
The Windmills
Even if you're a stranger to Mykonos, chances are you've encountered these iconic windmills in countless photos and 'must-visit' lists across social media platforms. As you make your way towards the waterfront to take in the views of Little Venice and The Windmills, be sure to stroll down Matoyánni Street. Here, you'll find charming stores, inviting cafes, and chic restaurants, offering a blend of retail therapy and culinary indulgence.
Delos Island
Renowned as one of the Mediterranean's most significant archaeological sites, Delos holds the mythological honor of being the birthplace of Apollo. Here, visitors will find a preserved theater, temples, monuments, remnants of private residences, and market ruins.
For those eager to explore this historical gem, organized tours, and ferry ride information can be easily accessed through platforms like GetYourGuide.
Kayak Ice Cream Store
Indeed, I am mentioning an ice cream store as a must-see site, but trust me, this gem is worth the visit. Nestled within a picturesque Cycladic courtyard, this ice cream parlor offers not only a charming ambiance but also excellent value for money with an array of flavours to indulge in. It isn't an easy location to find so be sure to view their website for directions.
Culture and Museums
Though my time on the island was limited to just two nights, I regretfully couldn't explore all the cultural treasures it holds. But I will highlight a few.
Be sure to carve out some time to visit the iconic landmarks such as the Church of Panayia Paraportiani, the Town Hall, and the castle perched majestically above the harbor. These architectural sites offer glimpses into Mykonos' rich heritage and history. For those with a thirst for knowledge and a penchant for history, a visit to the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums is highly recommended.
I hope you are ready to create your itinerary for Mykonos. Always remember to enjoy the little things and the little moments this Island has to offer.
Crafting Your Mykonos Itinerary
As you plan your journey through Mykonos, let its enchanting streets, captivating landmarks, and vibrant culture guide you. While my brief stay only scratched the surface of this island's treasures, I hope I've revealed enough to start planning your itinerary. From idyllic beaches to historical sites, from bustling nightlife to serene moments of reflection, Mykonos promises to create cherished memories.
Remember, it's not just about ticking off the must-sees; it's about savoring the little things and relishing every moment this island has to offer. So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to immerse yourself in the charm of Mykonos.
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