What can I write about what is probably the most famous of the Greek Islands (except for maybe Santorini)…that hasn’t already been written…? Mykonos is so very many things!  What I’ll try to do in this post is to dispel some of the common misconceptions about the island and focus on what I personally love about the place.

I used to visit Mykonos every summer…sometimes twice.  It gets more and more crowded every year – and has unfortunately gotten incredibly expensive compared to other islands (except Santorini which is up there too)…but it has its charm…and offers an experience that you really can’t find elsewhere.  For one, it’s an incredibly beautiful island with white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water…and if you like hip beach bars, incredible dining, unique art galleries and an endless option of cool bars (and yes, all-night dancing and partying on the beach if that’s your thing)…then read on.

Mykonos is often compared to Ibiza.  I’ve been to both and maybe I’m biased (this is a blog about Greece after all) but I much prefer Mykonos.  Mykonos is not just a party island…and while it’s a popular island with the gay community, it’s a great place to visit for everyone – including families.  Mykonos has something for everyone and whatever you’re into, you can probably find it in Mykonos.

The Chora (Mykonos town) is one of the largest and most beautiful in the Cyclades…full of shops, bars, restaurants, art galleries and charming narrow maze-like alleyways where you can easily get lost.  But if you leave town and drive to the other side of the island to places like Elia Beach (the largest beach in Mykonos), you will discover a more peaceful and chill part of Mykonos.

Following are some of my favorite photos from my many trips to Mykonos, starting with Mykonos Town or ‘Chora’:

Ornos Bay

A 10-minute drive from Mykonos Town (or a 35-minute walk) is beautiful Ornos Bay.  Here you will find super chic boutique hotels, cool cafes and happening beach bars – and great beaches for swimming.

There are many beach clubs/bars in Mykonos…some are more like open-air clubs where you can dance all day, swim, eat, drink, etc.  During the summer all the major DJ’s around the world play at the various beach clubs in Mykonos.  Two of my favorites are Solymar in Kalo Livadi, and Scorpios in in Paraga.