No doubt you've heard of this gorgeous Greek island, but have you been? Are you planning a trip or daydreaming about making the journey? Well here are my best tips on enjoying the island to it's fullest!
Mykonos had been explained to me by a local as being "all party in the south" and "no one comes to Mykonos to find love". It's extremely true and there is a clear division of the north and south of the island. Don't get me wrong, you can still party in the North but the South takes it to another level.
I'll start first with the north side. This is where you will find Mykonos Town or Chora or the Old Town. Its undoubtedly the area of Mykonos you have seen all the pictures from. The whitewashed charming streets, complete with all the cats and flowers your heart could ever desire. Upon my arrival to Mykonos town I was lucky enough to stay at Theoxenia Hotel. It is located right at the iconic Mykonos windmills and couldn't be better situated for exploring all the old town has to offer. It really does have it all with a luxurious pool, cabanas, and even a wild pink pelican named Petros who visits daily.
Theoxenia is pretty much the closest you can stay to old town without technically being in those dreamy streets. However, be advised if you do decide to stay inside the old town itself, cars can't drive in there meaning you will have to drag all your luggage through the cobbled streets and up or down stairs... something I learned the hard way on another stay.
Mykonos is definitely not the cheapest of the Cycladic Islands. In fact it is one of the most expensive. That being said you can spend as much or as little as you want. In the old town prices are high on everything. A gyro for example can cost you up to 12 euros! If you've ever been to Greece, you will know it should only cost you about 2.50 - 2.90 euros max! So, I would suggest definitely eating in the old town for the experience, but for all quick bites ask the locals where they go!
On to the South...
In the South I stayed between Paradise Beach and Paraga Beach at the ultra cool San Giorgio Hotel. It's got that dreamy chilled vibe during the day but livens up quite a bit at night to put it lightly. They encourage after parties and many of the DJs from the nearby clubs stay here. The decor is impeccable and you'll happily want to waste your days away here.
Also, by the same owner, you will fine Scorpios just down the beach from San Giorgio. If you're in the know, you know about Scorpios. It's where everyone will tell you it's the place to go on the whole island. It's pricey so be prepared if you're planning to drink the day and night away there but it's definitely worth the visit. You can arrive during the day and stay as long as you like. There are tons of different seating areas to soak up the sun, take in the sunset, or sample their menu. Pretty much any dress code goes.
In terms of getting around on the island, it's small so there are plenty of options. You can rent a car, quad bikes, taxis, or even take the bus which connects all the main spots on the island. If you're coming from one of the other islands there are tons of ferries that run in between. Mykonos also has one of the best airports for flying in and out of the Cyclades so it's a great place to start or end your Greek travels!
All in all Mykonos is an absolute dream. It was nothing like what I had expected but was even better! I'd love to hear if you have ever been and what your big tips for the island would be!
