Emerging from the beautiful Aegean Sea like a shimmering jewel, Mykonos, the “Island of Winds”, is a destination laden with charm and Greek splendor. Famous for its narrow winding streets, iconic windmills, pristine beaches, and captivating sunset views, it’s a place that leaves an indelible imprint on your soul.
If you’re planning a vacation and your cruise ship drops anchor here for a day, I have the perfect itinerary. On my cruise through Greece with Silversea Cruises, we stopped in Mykonos and so I’ve done this exact itinerary myself.
This one day Mykonos itinerary will help you discover the island’s beautiful secrets, even with just a short amount of time.
A Brief Intro to Mykonos
Mykonos, is a stunning island located in the South Aegean Sea. It’s an iconic destination in the Greek Cycladic archipelago, revered as one of Greece’s most glamorous and vibrant islands.
Mykonos’s rich history stretches back to the 5th century BC and is intertwined with numerous myths and ancient Greek legends. The island’s name is believed to be derived from a local hero named ‘Mykons,’ who was considered a descendant of the god Apollo.
Historically, Mykonos prospered as a commercial and trade center due to its strategic location along the trade routes between Venice, Asia Minor, and the mainland of Greece. It was under the control of the Romans and Byzantines before falling to the Venetians in the 13th Century. Mykonos was a victim of frequent pirate attacks due to its trading wealth and strategic maritime importance.
During the 20th century, Mykonos transformed into a flourishing tourist destination, drawing international acclaim for its vibrant atmosphere, traditional Cycladic charm, and hedonistic lifestyle. Today, it’s a cosmopolitan haven that hosts millions of tourists, celebs, and artists from around the globe each year.
The island’s energy, its mythical past, and the hedonic present, create a fascinating melting pot of cultural and leisure experiences for every visitor to Mykonos.
Morning: Mykonos Town, The Windmills & Paraportiani Church
Getting into Town
Cruise ships usually dock in the new port, Tourlos, which is about a 30 minute walk to town. Shuttles are available and there’s also the “Sea Bus” ferry, which costs about €5 roundtrip. A taxi into town will cost around €10 one way.
My cruise ship had a tender (little boat) that transported us to the center of town, so I hopped on this.
Sights to See in Chora
Start with a visit to the iconic Windmills (Kato Mili). Standing tall on a hill, these windmills have been a symbol of Mykonos’ rich history since the 16th century. Though no longer functional, they offer breathtaking views of the town and are a photographer’s delight.
Near the windmills you’ll also be able to capture some beautiful pictures of Little Venice from afar. Next, walk towards Visit the architectural marvel of Paraportiani Church, one of the most photographed spots in the Aegean. This whitewashed church, composed of four smaller churches amalgamated into one, exemplifies the classic Cycladic architectural style that Mykonos is known for.
After capturing memories at Paraportiani Church, head towards the harbor front where you’ll find the charming blue-domed St Nikolaos Church. The church is a beautiful example of the traditional Cycladic architecture, with its whitewashed walls and blue dome. It’s also one of the most photographed spots in Mykonos.
Walk along the waterfront and check out the Manto Mavrogenous Statue, a tribute to the Greek heroine who fought in the Greek War of Independence. The statue is located near the entrance of the old port and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
If you want to keep walking further along the waterfront, you’ll eventually stumble across Paralia Choras Mikonou, which is a small beach in the town. It’s nothing special, and definitely not anywhere close to as nice as other beaches on the island, but people still lay out here and have a swim. Beyond it is Baboulas Ouzeri – a seafood restaurant with scenic views of the town – plus the Archeological Museum of Mykonos and the Old Port.
Next, spend some time in the picturesque Mykonos Town. Wander through its maze-like streets, lined with quintessentially Greek white-and-blue houses. Matoyanni is the main street in Mykonos and is filled with little shops and boutiques. You can easily spend an hour here just snapping photos and admiring the pretty streets.
Visit the Rarity Gallery – a contemporary art gallery that showcases the work of local artists. It’s located in the heart of Mykonos Town and has some great pieces on display. The gallery also hosts exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check out what’s happening when you visit.
Lunch: Mykonos Old Town
As midday approaches, treat yourself to a lunch in one of the many local taverns that dot Mykonos old town. Savor traditional Greek delicacies like Moussaka, Souvlaki, or Tzatziki, cushioned by local wines, as you absorb the rhythm of life in Mykonos.
Some places to have lunch in Mykonos Town:
Niko’s Taverna – A must-visit spot for Greek cuisine lovers, Niko’s Taverna offers an excellent assortment of traditional dishes served up in a charming street-side setting. Try their renowned gyros and tzatziki, rounded off with some traditional Greek yogurt for dessert.
Sakis Grill Room – A popular eatery with locals and tourists alike, Sakis Grill Room serves up mouth-watering souvlaki, Greek salad and a variety of authentic gyros. Don’t miss trying their succulent mixed grill platter.
Nice n Easy – Living up to its name, Nice n Easy offers a relaxingly enjoyable dining experience. It’s known for its organic selections, blending traditional Greek cuisine with a contemporary touch. Their dishes, prepared from locally sourced ingredients, highlight the essence of Mediterranean flavors.
Lalala Mykonos – Located near the iconic windmills of Mykonos, Lalala is worth a visit for its ambiance alone. The menu features an array of Greek delicacies, with seafood being a staple. If you’re a wine lover, their extensive wine list won’t disappoint.
Kastro’s – Perched on the waterfront in the Little Venice area, Kastro’s provides magnificent sea views. This quaint eatery combines the authentic atmosphere of a traditional Mykonian taverna with an exclusive gourmet twist. The Mediterranean fish dish and signature cocktails are much-recommended.
Afternoon: Super Paradise Beach & Beach Club
Post-lunch, take a taxi to the legendary Super Paradise Beach. There are local buses that go there, but since you’re only in Mykonos for one day, I’d save time by hopping in a taxi.
Blessed with golden sand and crystal-clear azure waters, this beach is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. Rent a lounge chair, swim in the ocean and enjoy a refreshing cocktail.
Also, don’t miss the Super Paradise Beach Club, a place synonymous with fun and entertainment. Here, you can dance to the rhythm of famous DJs or simply chill-out with a refreshing cocktail.
Super Paradise Beach can be pretty crowded in summer, but it’s a nice beach and great for people watching. The beach club is always a good time, with dancing, DJs and a fun crowd.
As an alternative to Super Paradise Beach, you could venture to Paraga Beach, and visit the famous beach club, Scorpios. Scorpios is part of the Soho Roc Beach House and is known for being one of the best beach clubs on the island.
This upscale hangout is a place to see and be seen; it has a bohemian vibe with cabanas, comfy lounge chairs, a restaurant and a boutique. It’s known for its legendary sunset “rituals” with live music and DJs.
Evening: Little Venice & Sunset
Catch a water taxi back to Mykonos Town just before dusk. You’ll see small boats on the beach offering rides back to Chora. Alternatively you can take a regular taxi. Beeline directly for Little Venice.
This neighborhood, notable for its houses that seem to rise directly from the sea, is the ideal place to witness the world-famous Mykonos sunset. With a cocktail in hand, watch as the sun slowly dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple — a truly magical end to your day.
Each of these Little Venice bars has its own ambience:
Bao’s Cocktail Bar – Standout for its ‘Drink Different’ philosophy, Bao’s offers an inventive cocktail menu. The Cycladic-inspired all-white decor along with colorful cushions and rugs makes it a delightful spot to enjoy the Mykonos sunset.
Kastro’s Bar – Famed for its splendid sea view and stunning sunset vistas, Kastro’s is an enchanting bar known for its signature cocktails and romantic ambiance, perfect for an evening drink.
Veranda Bar – With a laid-back, boho-chic vibe, Veranda Bar serves as a comfortable retreat where you can indulge in delicious cocktails while soaking up panoramic views of Little Venice and the vibrant nightlife.
Scarpa Bar – A vibrant, energetic bar that’s hard to miss, Scarpa is known for its creative mixology and pulsating music. It’s a popular choice for enjoying a cocktail and dancing to DJ tunes all night long.
Rhapsody Bar – A cozy spot for chilling out, Rhapsody Bar boasts friendly bartenders, unique cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere. The sea view from this bar adds a touch of serenity to your evening.
Katarina’s – Katarina’s is not only famous for its spectacular sunset views but it also offers a refined selection of wines and Greek meze. Its balcony seating provides an incredible vista of the old port and Little Venice.
Negrita – A waterfront bar with a lively atmosphere, Negrita is an exceptional place for enjoying the evening with a cocktail in hand. Don’t overlook their delightful appetizers that perfectly complement the drinks.
Cerise – Known for its chic design and friendly staff, Cerise offers a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration. Immerse yourself in their extensive range of wine and cocktail offerings paired with delicious finger foods.
Is One Day Enough in Mykonos?
You can certainly see everything there is to do in the main town of Chora in just one day. You can also squeeze in a visit to the beach as well if you don’t mind a busy schedule. Obviously if you’re visiting on a cruise ship and only have one day, then this is all you have to work with. But if you’re visiting on your own, ideally I’d recommend spending about 3 nights or more if you want to explore the island’s beaches and experience all the different beach clubs.
A Final Word
While this one day in Mykonos itinerary is packed, it covers this magical island’s highlights, offering a blend of culture, history, beaches, gastronomy, and leisure. Mykonos is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that will leave you wanting to stay longer.