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Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days

Located in the pretty Cyclades, Greek’s favorite holiday islands that only seem to be rising in popularity each year, Mykonos has all the ingredients of a perfect vacation; tiny white alleys with blue balconies framed by fuchsia bougainvillea, paradise like beautiful beaches, delectable Greek cuisine (and wine) that begs for indulgence, super-luxurious resorts that offer Jacuzzis overlooking the sea, a raging nightlife that appeals to party-lovers, glamorous fellow island inhabitants, and sweet sunshine even as late as early October.

The shoulder season is actually a great time to visit the island- it’s not as crowded as it can be in summer which means that hotel rates are way more affordable. You do still need to book in advance as there’s usually a large number of tourists visiting from the Middle East during local holidays. Here are the top things to do in Mykonos for two days, followed by suggestions on where to stay in Mykonos.

Top Things To Do in Mykonos for Two Days

Get Lost in the Old Town (Chora)

If you’re wondering about what to do in Mykonos, the Old Town should be your first stop. Chora or the Old Town is the lively center of activity on the island and wandering around its lanes is one of the coolest things to do in Mykonos town. The town center is a maze of narrow whitewashed alleys and bright blue and pink balconies characteristic of Cycladic towns. You’ll see churches, homes, restaurants, pubs and shops. Take your time and get lost in these lanes, sit down for a Greek Freddo (especially good under the hot afternoon sun), and people watch in the lively center.


 

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Mykonos
What to do in Mykonos: Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days plus general tips and advice to help plan your trip.
What to do in Mykonos: Take a stroll around Mykonos Town

Of course, this is also where it hits you just how commercial the island is- the likes of Prada and Gucci make an appearance, which is not surprising given that Mykonos sees rich holidaymakers from all over the world, especially the Middle East. The town is definitely more likeable in the day, just as the sleepy party island is waking up post 11.00am and the narrow streets are not as crowded.

You could also take this walking tour of the town with a local to learn all about the history of Mykonos and visit all the important sights, while also enjoying local wines and delicious mezze on the tour, all for a price that is a steal.

If you like to shop, there’s a whole range available here from very expensive brands and boutiques to lower end bohemian styles. If you love hats like I do, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with hats that are more pieces of art than accessories.

What to do in Mykonos: Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days plus tips on visiting Mykonos in the shoulder season (hint: cheaper hotels) #Mykonos #Greece #Cyclades
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Visit the Famous Windmills of Mykonos

Get the obligatory windmill photo close to Little Venice because if you haven’t done that, have you even been to Mykonos?! You can easily walk from the town center towards the waterfront, one of the most beautiful places in Mykonos, and you’ll see the windmills (and the crowds of tourists waiting to take a photo, yes, even in the shoulder season). These were built in the 16th century and feature on many photos, postcards and paintings of Mykonos and once you see them for real, it’s easy to see the appeal. The windmills haven’t been used for a long time and around the island, some of these have even been converted to private homes, museums and Airbnb apartments for tourists.  They overlook the waterfront and the whole setting is kind of romantic.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Mykonos Windmills

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Get Your Tan On at the Beaches in Mykonos

Mykonos is home to many beaches, some known for their outrageous parties, some catering to predominantly gay tourists, and some family beaches- so ask around and choose accordingly. A ten-minute drive from the town center, Psarou Beach is definitely one of the nicer beaches, suitable for couples and families. Paradise Beach is for the party-goers. Paraga Beach, home to the posh Scorpios beach bar is also quite famous. Platis Gialos has beautiful blue waters and you can go snorkeling here as well.

Spending an entire day working on your tan and just living the beach life is not a bad idea at all. You can also take this beach-hopping tour in Mykonos that is great value for money and helps you explore the best beaches on the island. Alternatively, head to Platis Gialos to take ferries to other beaches around the island or explore the beaches on your rented ATV.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Psarou Beach

N’ammos, a posh restaurant right on Psarou Beach, is known for hosting the best daytime parties and makes for a lively afternoon of good (even if overpriced) food, drinks and music that will get you up and dancing.

What To Do in Mykonos (video)

Here’s a short video of our highlights from two days in Mykonos. If you like it, please feel free to give it a thumbs up, share and subscribe to my channel.

Visiting Athens as well? Here’s my perfect 3-day Athens itinerary.

Sunset Drinks at Little Venice

The waterfront at Little Venice is dotted with bars and restaurants housed in colorful buildings, and though it can get very busy around and after sunset, waiting is totally worth it. It might be hard to find more romantic things to do in Mykonos than to witness a Myconian sunset than with wine and soft music at one of the bars on the strip. Alternatively, head to the poolside lounge at Bill & Coo Suites to enjoy another spectacular sunset view by a pool that sparkles at night.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Little Venice
Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Bill & Coo Lounge

Delicious Greek Food in Mykonos

If you ask me what to do in Mykonos, or what to do in Greece, I’ll probably lead with “Eat a lot” in shameless display of my love for Greek food. Greek cuisine has all the Mediterranean goodness that I had imagined and then some more. The food has the potential to blow your mind, regardless of which part of the country you’re in and Mykonos is no exception. Think simple, fresh ingredients, prepared in easy and classic ways sure to impress food lovers and you pretty much get the idea. If you want to learn how to cook the cuisine, take a cooking class in Mykonos. If you also have plans to visit Santorini, you’ll love this guide to Santorini restaurants

For good food at a reasonable price, head to Nikos Taverna in the town center where you’ll dine under the stars, right in the bustling center of Hora. You might have to wait as this place is really popular, but the food is great and the price is agreeable by Mykonos standards. Try the seafood options- the swordfish and mussels preparations are almost always a hit in the Cyclades.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Nikos Taverna
Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Croquettes

If you’re feeling more like fast food, then stop by Jimmy’s Gyros for a gyro wrap full of juicy meaty deliciousness. The place is very popular with partiers who amble out of the clubs and bars in the area for an after-hours meal.

If you want a more local experience, consider this lunch or dinner experience in Mykonos with a meal prepared in a local home by a Myconian host, the Greeks are known for their legendary hospitality!

Dance Like No One’s Watching

It’s not without reason that partygoers flock to Mykonos- the nightlife in Mykonos is legendary, especially during the summer months and even as late as September. Dancing is simply one of the best things to do in Mykonos at night. N’ammos and Paradise Beach Club are both great places to party and Skandinavian Bar in the town center enjoys quite the party crazy reputation. We visited during late September and most beach clubs including Paradise Beach were shut, but the Skandinavian Bar had people queuing up for hours to get in. Another bar with a cool vibe (also in the town) is Argo, and I can only imagine that there are plenty of options during the livelier summer months when parties go on till sunrise.

What to do in Mykonos: dance like no one's watching
Skandinavian Bar

Explore the Island on an ATV

If you have any time left after hours of beach-bumming, shopping, partying, enjoying sunsets and having a generally awesome time, you might want to explore other parts of the island riding an ATV or bike (both available to rent for cheap), though I’d totally understand if all you wanted to do was lie on the beach.

Alternatively, you can also do this BBQ and drinks tour of Mykonos on a catamaran, over 6 hours, that is good value for money if you’re in a group or a full-day jeep safari exploring the entire island.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Megali Ammos Bay

Catch a Movie at Cine Manto

Between 1st June and 30th September, catch a movie at the lovely open-air cinema at Cine Manto, a green sanctuary in the heart of Mykonos town that hosts cultural events and has a great garden cafe-restaurant to grab a bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. You can check out daily movie schedules and happenings on the website.

What to do in Mykonos: Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days plus tips on visiting Mykonos in the shoulder season (hint: cheaper hotels) #Mykonos #Greece #Cyclades
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Visit Other Islands

Wondering what to do in Mykonos after you’ve spent two or three days seeing the main sights? If you have more time in Mykonos, it’s a good idea to take a day trip and visit other islands such as Paros, Delos, and Rhenia. You could do a yacht cruise, customized completely or do a guided tour of Delos, in the morning or evening. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the supposed birthplace of Artemis and an interesting archaeological site in Greece. Sailing in Greece is a great way to see the amazing landscapes of this gorgeous country. Read about the island of Serifos in Greece.

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Where To Stay in Mykonos

Luxury Stays

Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge A gorgeous boutique hotel close to the Old Town (walking distance) with great suites, impeccable service, an exceptional restaurant, pool overlooking the sea, and picture-perfect sunset views. Read my review of Bill & Coo Suites & Lounge.

Mykonos Blu Grecotel Exclusive Resort A beautiful resort with whitewashed villa type architecture typical of Cycladic villages, ultimate luxury, great service, indulgent suites, restaurants, located on one of the island’s best beaches, right next door to the famous Nammos Lounge, perfect for couples but also with a great party vibe. The infinity pool here is truly amazing. Read my review here.

Mid-range Stays

Semeli Hotel Mykonos Located close to the windmills of Little Venice and Old Town, this hotel has a nice pool, spa, amenities like Jacuzzi and fitness center and an Italian restaurant.

Poseidon Hotel Suites Bright colorful rooms, nice pool, convenient location close to the Old Town and Little Venice.

Budget Stays

Olia A great little 3-star hotel with a nice pool, pretty accommodation, good service, and a fantastic location close to the Old Town and the windmills of Little Venice.

Matina Hotel Mykonos Good place to stay, comfortable, has everything you need to enjoy a Mykonos vacation on a budget and is close to the Old Town.

Hotel Carbonaki 3-star accommodation, comfortable, modern, has a spa and is a short stroll to the old town and Little Venice.

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How To Get To Mykonos

How To Get From Athens to Mykonos and from other islands to Mykonos

You can take a ferry from Athens to Mykonos; multiple daily ferries depart from one of Athens’ two ports Piraeus and Rafina. A high-speed ferry will get you there in 3 hours while a regular ferry will take around 5 hours. Blue Star, Hellenic Seaways and SeaJets ferries are the companies that operate ferries between Athens and Mykonos as well as between Mykonos and other islands. Ferries also operate from Santorini to Mykonos and back. Schedules are seasonal, so it’s best to check online and book in advance (at least a month during peak season).

You can also fly from Athens to Mykonos (flight duration- 30 minutes) but it might be cheaper and on a high-speed ferry even faster to take the ferry instead.

Top Things to Do in Mykonos for Two Days
Mykonos

What To Pack for Mykonos

If you’re traveling during summer or even the shoulder season, come well-prepared for the warm Mediterranean sun. Ladies, bring your cute sundresses, maxi dresses and skirts, as well as pretty dresses for romantic dinners and dancing. Gentlemen, bring t-shirts and shorts for the day, but also pack some smart shirts and trousers for the night. Of course, don’t forget lots of sunscreen, sunglasses, sandals, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes/sandals.

Additional Reading

Have you been to Mykonos? What would you add to this list and what were your favorite top things to do in Mykonos?

 

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you book hotels or tours using a link on this post, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you, which keeps this site running. As always, I don’t recommend hotels or tours that I haven’t or wouldn’t book myself and do a lot of research to ensure my recommendations offer good value for money and have great reviews.

Explorer Whiz

Monday 19th of March 2018

This is quite an amazing blog post!

Maounas

Thursday 30th of March 2017

Near Mykonos is Delos, will rent a boat to Mykonos and will cross over, about 25 minutes journey! Worth a visit! Sat two days and did a short tour on the island of Mykonos, Wonderful!

6 Beautiful Islands In Greece To Blow Your Mind | Bloggsom

Monday 20th of March 2017

[…] Mykonos has developed a reputation for being THE party island of Greece. While it attracts many younger travellers who are keen to spend their nights having fun and their days relaxing on the scenic beaches, Mykonos does have its fair share of interesting sights. […]

Elena

Monday 12th of September 2016

Great post Natasha, I am just planning of probably going to Mykonos in October :)

Natasha Amar

Monday 12th of September 2016

Have fun on your trip Elena!

Nic

Monday 14th of December 2015

What a lovely place to visit, looks a lot nicer than Kos which is the only place in Greece we have been. We really need to get back over and see these wonderful places to change our mind about Greece!

Natasha Amar

Monday 14th of December 2015

There are so many Greek islands to explore and I've only seen two, and Mykonos wasn't my favorite- I did love Paros though.

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