Chora contains the windmills, Little Venice and the main bus links. The beaches sit beyond town and vary from organised clubs to quieter coves.
A short stay works when each day has one focus. Trying to combine Delos, several beaches and late nights leaves little time for the island itself.
Walk Chora before the crowds
Early morning reveals the lanes and harbour before cruise and day-trip traffic builds.
Pick a beach style first
South-coast buses reach several popular beaches, but prices, facilities and atmosphere differ sharply.
Treat Delos as a fixed outing
Boats and archaeological access depend on schedule and weather, so protect the return connection.
A practical itinerary
- Day 1: explore Chora, the windmills and Little Venice.
- Day 2: choose two connected south-coast beaches.
- Day 3: take an official Delos excursion and return for a quieter evening walk.
Getting there
Mykonos has an airport and two port areas. Confirm the exact arrival point and prearrange the final transfer during busy periods.
Getting around
Buses connect Chora with major beaches and the port. Taxis are limited, and quad bikes or scooters require proper licensing and careful road judgement.
Food to look for
Look for kopanisti cheese, louza cured pork, local pastries and seafood. Central harbour tables can be expensive, so read menus before ordering.
When to visit
May, June and September retain useful services with less pressure. July and August bring wind, crowds and high demand. Winter is very quiet.
Accessible travel
Chora has narrow lanes, steps and uneven paving. Ask about exact hotel access because vehicles cannot reach many central properties.
Practical limits
Wind can affect ferries and Delos boats. Beach facilities and buses are strongly seasonal, and some venues operate only in the main summer months.
Nearby places
Delos is the main heritage excursion. Tinos, Naxos and Paros may fit an onward route when the current ferry sequence works.
Places to add to your map
- Chora: Main town, bus hub and evening centre.
- Old Port: Central waterfront and Delos departure area.
- New Port: Main ferry terminal north of town.
- Delos: Archaeological island reached by organised boat.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Greece trip.
Continue planning
Questions about Mykonos
How long should I stay on Mykonos?
Three days cover Chora, a beach day and Delos. Add a fourth if you want a slower coast day.
Can I visit Mykonos without renting a vehicle?
Yes. Chora is walkable and buses serve the main ports and beaches, though late-night and shoulder-season frequencies need checking.
Is Delos a full-day trip?
Most visits use a substantial half-day, including boat time. The exact duration depends on the operator and archaeological-site schedule.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Official Greek islands visitor information, Greek National Tourism Organisation
- Official Cyclades visitor information, Greek National Tourism Organisation
- Official Mykonos visitor information, Greek National Tourism Organisation