Mediterranean · Greece
Mykonos Travel Guide
Mykonos is the Greek island of windmills, whitewashed lanes, and turquoise coves. Smaller and more walkable than Santorini, it rewards slow wandering through its charming Chora (old town) and offers some of the best seafood in the Aegean.

How Do You Get from the Ship to Chora?
If your ship tenders to the Old Port, you step off right in Chora — the old town. If it docks at the New Port (2km away), free shuttle buses run regularly into town. Either way, you're exploring within minutes of leaving the ship.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
Chora (Old Town) — A maze of whitewashed alleys, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and tiny churches. Wander without a map — every turn reveals something beautiful.
Little Venice — Colourful 18th-century houses built right on the water's edge, with waves splashing against the foundations. The most atmospheric spot on the island.
Kato Mili Windmills — The iconic row of windmills overlooking the harbour. Best photographed from the path between Little Venice and the windmills at sunset.
Paraportiani Church — Five churches merged into one over centuries, creating a sculptural whitewashed masterpiece. Mykonos's most photographed building.
Beach time — If you want a swim, Platis Gialos beach is a 15-minute bus ride from Chora. Crystal-clear water and sunbed rentals available.
Where Should You Eat in Mykonos?
Seafood: Fresh grilled fish, calamari, and octopus are outstanding. Try "saganaki" (fried cheese) and "dolmades" (stuffed vine leaves) as starters. Mykonos sausage (louza) is a local delicacy — cured pork with spices.
Budget eating: Bakeries sell tiropita (cheese pie), spanakopita (spinach pie), and bougatsa (custard pastry) for a few euros. Perfect for eating on the move.
Is Mykonos Worth Exploring Independently?
Mykonos is one of the easiest cruise ports to explore independently. Chora is compact, entirely pedestrian, and impossible to get dangerously lost in — every path eventually leads back to the waterfront. There's no need for a guided tour when the whole point is simply wandering. With Lucy for Greek menu translation and a sense of adventure, you'll have a perfect port day.
Useful Local Phrases
Γεια σας (Yia sas)
Hello
(YAH-sas)
Ευχαριστώ (Efcharistó)
Thank you
(ef-hah-ree-STOH)
Πόσο κάνει; (Póso kánei?)
How much?
(POH-soh KAH-nee)
Τον λογαριασμό (Ton logariasmo)
The bill, please
(ton lo-gah-ree-as-MOH)
Νερό, παρακαλώ (Neró, parakaló)
Water, please
(neh-ROH, pah-rah-kah-LOH)
Local Tips
- •Chora is a deliberate maze — it was designed to confuse pirates. Don't fight it. Getting lost is the point.
- •Little Venice is the most photographed spot. Visit before 10am or at sunset for the best light and fewest people.
- •Mykonos is expensive. Budget travellers should eat at bakeries (tiropita and spanakopita are cheap and filling) and drink at local kafeneia rather than waterfront bars.
- •The Pelicans of Mykonos (Petros and friends) wander the waterfront. They're famous but can be aggressive around food — keep your distance while eating.