We had no idea that Mykonos was known as ‘The Island of the Winds’ until our tiny propeller plane basically crash landed onto the airport runway. Lets just say, if I ever go back, I’d strongly prefer to go by boat.
July 10, 2016 – Arrive in Mykonos
We landed in Mykonos around 10PM and had prearranged airport transfer through our hotel (5 EUR/person). After checking in, we walked into Mykonos Town for the most delicious dinner at M-eating, my favorite meal of the trip! We lucked out and were able to walk-in and be seated immediately since we arrived so late but I highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time to avoid long waits.
July 11, 2016 – Mykonos Beaches
We spent our first full day on Mykonos beach hopping around the island. From what I’ve seen and read, all of their beaches boast soft sands, blue waters and picturesque views but definitely consider the ‘vibe’ you want before selecting a beach. There are options for whatever mood you may be in – quiet and relaxing to crazy, spring break-esk, dance parties. To get around the island, we rented a scooter from O.K. Rentals (20 EUR/day). They were super accommodating and provided complimentary door-to-door transport between their facility and our hotel. Note: I believe there is a public bus that will take you to most beaches if you prefer not to rent.
Since the wind was blowing from the north that day, it was recommended we visit the beaches along the southern side of the island. We first went to Kalo Livadi Beach but ended up leaving shortly after arriving. Despite the northerly winds, the sand was flying around and pelting us, which is not the leisurely beach day we had envisioned. If you do find yourself out that way, the beach is on the more quiet side (relatively speaking) and does offer lounge chairs and umbrellas to rent.
Our next stop was Elia Beach and this time we took advantage of the cabana rentals (25 EUR/day). We really enjoyed this beach and lounged here for hours. Elia is a little more upbeat and more crowded than Kalo Livadi but not a crazy party scene either. There are a couple of restaurants you can dine in or you can flag down a waiter that will take your order and deliver it directly to your chair.
When we finally unglued ourselves from our lounge chairs, our plan was to visit Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach, the party beaches, for a true Mykonos experience. However, we got a little lost on our way and instead ended up at Ornos Beach. Being the closest beach to Mykonos Town, it made sense that it should be even more crowded and louder than the previous two we had visited. This time, we skipped the sun and sand and opted to eat a light lunch at Kostantis, one of the many restaurants that line the beach.
After a relaxing beach day, we were ready to take on the legendary Mykonos night scene. Our first stop was Galleraki Cocktail Bar in Little Venice to watch the sunset from their second floor balcony. Note: Mykonos sunsets from Little Venice are a must but be sure to select a restaurant or bar that will keep you dry from the waves that often crash over the walls.
We had dinner that night in the most magical, fairy tail, garden setting at Avra Restaurant. I would say the food here is secondary to the ambiance, where you dine under blooming bougainvillea bathed in soft candlelight.
July 12, 2016 – Mykonos Town
Our last day in Mykonos was dedicated to exploring the charming, whitewashed Mykonos Town. We wandered into all the cute boutique shops and walked along the port and down, what seemed like, every street in town just taking in all the beautiful white and blue buildings. We also paid a visit to the famous Mykonos Windmills set against the Aegean Sea.
While we were lost in town, we stumbled across Pasta Fresca Barkia which had come recommended to us from a friend as “THE BEST PASTA EVER.” Being the pasta lovers that we are, we couldn’t NOT try it, especially when it seemed like fate that it should cross our paths when it did. Overall, I would agree that the actual pasta was fresh and tasty but their sauces were not my favorite.
That evening we took the Seajet2 high speed ferry (63.50 EUR/person) to Thira on the island of Santorini. The trip was delayed and quite long but we arrived in Santorini just as the sun was setting and knew it had been worth the journey!
Accommodations & Country Specific Details
Stay: Vencia Boutique Hotel
We love, love, LOVED our hotel in Mykonos. Never in my life have I encountered hotel staff as friendly and competent as those at Vencia. They truly made our trip easy by recommending amazing restaurants, things to do and securing our airport and ferry transport to and from the island.
The hotel is situated up high just east of Mykonos Town, an easy 5 min walk. The facilities, rooms and free breakfast are all amazing but my favorite thing about the Vencia (aside from the staff), is the incredible infinity pool with views of Little Venice and the Aegean Sea below.
We found the cost to be reasonable too if you book early enough. We originally booked a room with a “garden view” but were upgraded when we checked in. Stay at this hotel and you will not be disappointed!
Transportation:
To Mykonos: By airplane on Aegean Air.
Around Mykonos: Rented a scooter through O.K. Rentals for the day. No special license or permit required.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Greek but had no problem finding English speakers.
Outlet Adapter: The standard voltage is 230 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type F.
Passport/Visa Requirements: U.S. Passport valid for at least six months from date of travel. No visa for visits under 90 days required.
Vaccinations/Medicines: N/A
Weather: We visited Mykonos in July and it was warm but breezy which definitely cools you down. It’s definitely summer type weather but the air isn’t as suffocating-ly hot.
KARA VALLARI 