Mykonos is a true paradise on earth set in the heart of the deep blue waters of Aegean sea! It is a place to be, where glamour and elegance meet simplicity and tradition! It is an island that satisfies all expectations where everybody can enjoy the Greek summer among entertainment, history and tradition!
Party-goers, backpackers, celebrities, and VIPs all are invited to explore every inch of the island!
Geography and Population
Mykonos, the so called “Island of the Wind”, is part of the Cyclades archipelago, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos islands.
It has an area of 85.5 sq. km and rises to an elevation of 341 m. (1,119 feet) at its highest point.
The population nearly reaches the 12,500 inhabitants, most of whom live in the Town.
Mythology & History
Mykonos has been inhabited for over 3,000 years.
It appears in ancient Greek mythology as the site of the great battle between Zeus and the Titans. According to myth, the island of Mykonos was formed by the petrified bodies of Giants killed by the demigod hero Hercules. The island’s name is associated with the local hero Mykonos who was Apollo’s grandson.
Despite the immediate vicinity with the neighbouring island of Delos, during the ancient times Mykonos was a rather poor place with limited agricultural resources.
The Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans all laid claim to Mykonos for a period through the ages.
Up until the end of the 18th century, Mykonos prospered as a trading centre, attracting many immigrants from nearby islands, in addition to regular pirate raids. The island, due to its geographical position, picked up economically and became a very important stop for the resupply of the foreign merchant ships.
At the end of the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1830, Mykonos became a part of the Greek independent state.
As a result of sailing and merchant activity, the island’s economy quickly picked up but declined again during the late 19th century. This caused more and more Mykonians to leave the island in search of a better future.
After the end of 2nd World War, tourism became the island’s primary commercial service.
Today, Mykonos is a delightful destination, a true paradise on earth for every traveller, combining fascinating history with extraordinary beauty and modern amenities.
Mykonos Town (Chora)
Mykonos Town, which is widely known as Chora, is the capital of the island, located on its western coast. It is a labyrinth of narrow flag-stoned streets and whitewashed houses with flat roofs and colourfully painted wooden doors and window frames. It is one of the best examples of traditional Cycladic architecture and a spellbinding tourism attraction. Visitors can wander around the busy alleys admiring the bougainvillea trees in purple bloom, the hidden churches, and of course Petros the famous pelican, which is the official mascot of the island!
A cluster of windmills, dating back to the 16th century and operational until the last century, are landmarks of the landscape. They remind to the visitors the days when Mykonos used to create wealth by taking advantage of the wind power.
One of the most scenic corners of the Town is Alefkantra or “Little Venice”, an 18th century romantic district, dominated by grand captains’ mansions with colourful balconies perched over the sea. Many of the residences are now home to galleries, elegant little shops and restaurants with views of the island’s most majestic sunsets.
Ano Mera
Ano Mera village is located almost in the heart of the island, just 8 km away from the Town. Its population reaches the 1,500 inhabitants. The picturesque village not only stands out for its classical Cycladic beauty, but also for its scenic streets and traditional taverns.
The historic monastery of Panagia Tourliani is located right in front of the village’s main square. It was originally built in the 15th century and since then the whole village has been developed mainly around it. The all-white monastery is one of the main attractions of the whole island.
Beaches
Travellers looking to get the full Mykonos experience must sample the most unique feature of the island and one of its unrivalled assets i.e. its beaches. The countless different compositions of golden sands, pebbles and crystal, aquamarine waters under the unique Aegean Sun are beyond comparison.
Southern coast beaches are the most popular, sheltered from the strong north wind that blow during summer. The beaches of Agios Ioannis, Ornos, Psarou, Platys Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari, Elia, Kalo Livadi, Kalafatis, and Lia being all equipped with bar-restaurants and lounges are not only for sunbathing and lazing by the water.
On the other hand the equally lovely North Coast beaches like Agios Sostis, Ftelia, and Fokos are less crowded and more isolated being ideal for relaxing.
Entertainment, Shopping & Nightlife
Mykonos is a vivid place full of liveliness, offering countless opportunities for entertainment and fun to thousands of visitors every year. By mixing harmoniously the party atmosphere with the family-friendly amenities, Mykonos is a paradise on earth where everyone can enjoy!
Most of the beaches offer the option to lounge while drinking a cocktail or dance between the starter and the main. Particularly in the most famous sun-kissed spots wild parties may keep the crowds active not only during day but also at night.
Mykonos is a paradise on earth for water sports lovers. It attracts surfers and sailors from all over the world that can enjoy windsurfing off the coast of several beaches like Korfos, Megali Ammos, Ftelia, and Kalafatis.
Dedicated shoppers willing to leave the seaside and step ashore will discover in the heart of the Town elegant shops representing luxury brands alongside an assortment of souvenirs and trinkets.
A perfect luxurious restaurant or just a traditional “taverna” serving classic local plates or freshly caught seafood can be easily found around and please every taste, less or more demanding.
In the evening, the alleys of Chora become full of people and the clubs get ready to accept hundreds of guests who wish to dance until dawn. Mykonos has become world famous for its nightlife, with crazy events, opulence and famous DJs from all over the world.
Luxury
Mykonos in comparison with all neighboring islands, has a taste for luxury. From its elegant villas full of amenities with infinity pools to award winning cuisine the clear Aegean sky is the limit.
Luxury yachts are moored either around the old and the new port, or off the coast of the cosmopolitan beaches of Psarou and Ornos.
Learjets and chartered helicopters transport on a daily basis prestigious visitors, who are attracted by the place’s countless chic and alluring amenities.
Mykonos creates a new standard of luxury when it comes to Greek hospitality. Stylish hotels & villas provide the guests with so many in-house perks giving them the opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves without having to leave their residence. Facilities may include a tranquil spa, an inspired cocktail bar, a sophisticated Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, a fusion restaurant offering upscale gastronomy and sushi and private jacuzzi and pool.
Transportation
Mykonos International Airport (IATA: JMK) is located 4 km away from the town of Mykonos. It serves flights to domestic and international destinations. The flight from Athens to Mykonos takes 25 minutes.
Mykonos is also accessible by boats and ferries being connected on a daily basis with the surrounding islands and the ports of Athens (Piraeus and Rafina).
From March to November, thousands of passengers from all over the world visit the island every day, arriving by luxury cruise ships.
Taxis and public buses are available for transportation on the island.
Tour boats go regularly to the nearby island of Delos, which was a sacred place during ancient times and according to the Greek mythology the birth place of Apollo, the God of Light.
