Mykonos, Greece

This upmarket Greek island is a sophisticated, fashionable favourite, particularly for the gay traveller, and probably because of its popularity it has become reputedly the most expensive of all the islands. Its designer shops, colourful tavernas and throbbing dance clubs are doing a roaring trade, but despite the trendy crowds and a couple of well-attended nudist beaches, the island retains its traditional flavour while its trademark thatched windmills turn slowly on the hill. 



Tourists to Mykonos who would like to do some serious sightseeing can visit the archaeological museum on the island, which displays some finds from the necropolis on nearby Rhenia. It is also possible to take a trip across to the uninhabited island of Delos (just six nautical miles away), which is an important UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, having been the religious centre of the Aegean in ancient times, and associated with some captivating ancient myths and a history almost as interesting. Explore the temples and the Avenue of the Lions, and see some stunning archaic sculptures in the museum.



Mykonos has really lovely beaches, the most famous of which is the aptly named Paradise Beach. Super Paradise next door is also very popular, as are Platis Gialos, Paraga and Agios Ioannis (which is a good option if you prefer to avoid crowds).

Attractions Aegean Maritime Museum The Aegean Maritime Museum features wonderful models of pre-Minoan ships, rare engravings, a superb collection of old maps and documents, navigational instruments and rare coins. The ship 'Thalis o Milesios', which was built in 1909 is berthed at the Hellenic Navy's Museum wharf at the Paleo Phaliro marina and is definitely worth a visit. The garden courtyard is picturesque and features replicas of ancient marble gravestones of sailors lost at sea from the island of Delos, as well as anchors and the top of the old Mykonos lighthouse. Although the museum is very small it is well-labeled and very interesting, giving insight into the history of the island. Anybody with an interest in maritime history will love this small gem of a museum and even children will probably enjoy a quick exploration of the displays, making it a good attraction for the whole family. The Aegean Maritime Museum is right in the centre of town and it only takes about an hour to take everything in. The museum is a popular jaunt for cruise passengers and is often included in walking tours of Mykonos. No photography is permitted in the museum but you can take pictures in the courtyard. Delos The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the island of Delos is a must for not only history buffs, but also for lovers of Greek mythology. In fact, it is one of the most important mythological, historical and archaeological sites in Greece. The island was inhabited as early as the 3rd millennium BC and has been a sacred site for multiple religions, cults and sects over the centuries. It has also played a role in numerous historical events and been the subject of prophecies and myths. The archaeological excavations on Delos are extensive and ongoing and many valuable ancient artefacts and buildings have been uncovered. Some of these are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Delos. Look out for the circular Sacred Lake, now dry, the Minoan Fountain, the Terrace of the Lions, and several impressive ancient buildings and temples, some of which have remarkable mosaics. Famously, in Greek mythology, Artemis and her twin brother Apollo were born on the island of Delos to the King of the Gods, Zeus, and his wife Leto. The statues, sculptures, temples and terraces are a must see for all visitors to Mykonos and a trip to the island of Delos will reward greatly, not least of all because it is a beautiful, if sparse, island, which offers stunning views. Mykonos Windmills The white windmills are iconic on Mykonos island and are visible from every part of Hora village. Those interested in the mechanics of windmills - once such common and important technology and now seldom seen - will be captivated by them and children also tend to be enthralled. There is a reason for everybody to take a stroll to the famous windmills though, and that is the spectacular views from the hill. The hill is best visited in the late afternoon, towards sunset, and overlooks the whole town of Hora and the harbour too. There are 16 windmills left on Mykonos and seven of these stand on the hill at Hora (also often called Chora). Some of them were built by the Venetians in the 16th century but construction continued into the 20th century so they are not all that old, or have been renovated since then. They were once an important means of survival and income for the inhabitants of the town and were used primarily to mill wheat. They are white-walled, thatched-roofed windmills and are rather mesmerising, although they are out of use. It is a great spot for photographs and picnics and one of the mills has been turned into a small museum. There is no need for directions as the windmills are probably the first thing you see when you enter the village or the port.