We are going to Greece this week, specifically, Mykonos. This island is the most well-known of the Cyclades cluster of islands in southeastern part of the country.

About eleven thousand people live on Mykonos and there is a huge tourist industry. The natural views are beautiful and so are the whitewashed buildings with the popular blue domes. We were inspired by the pure beauty. It’s the type of place you can just explore without an agenda (more on that below).

The history in Mykonos is lively to say the least. There is evidence that as early as the 14th Century BC it was inhabited by the Carians but we don’t know much about their existence. It seems it was not a wealthy place during this time.

In early AD times, it was a more desirable place. The Byzantines, the Catalans, Ottomans, and others all had their turn in conquering and controlling the island. It was a strong trade hub during the Ottoman rule before the Battle of Mykonos in 1794.

The Greek Revolution started in 1821 and ended victoriously in 1829. Greece became an independent state officially in February of 1830. If you’re interested in learning more about the revolution, look up the heroine, Manto Mavrogenous. This lady gave up her family fortune for her country. Talk about inspiring!

World War I marked a tough time for Mykonos but the later 20th Century led to a flourishing time and the start of the tourism infusion.

The conflicts are over now but it’s still an extremely lively place, just for a different reason. You’ll meet people from all over the world visiting there now. And you know we love to meet people. 😁

Mykonos, Greece, most-known for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, beautiful beaches, and winding streets. Mykonos is both picture-perfect island and also a lively vacation destination.

The island is small enough that you can see many of the highlights in a few days, but there are plenty of beaches and villages to explore if you want to stay longer.

Visiting Mykonos was the most relaxed portion of our trip through Greece. We would love to return someday. Here are some places you cannot miss:

The best thing to do when you arrive in Mykonos is to simply get lost. The narrow pedestrian streets were designed as a maze, and wandering through them is part of the experience. You'll find whitewashed buildings, colorful doors, tiny shops, restaurants, and churches around nearly every corner.

The famous windmills overlooking the sea are one of the island's most photographed sights. The Kato Mili windmills are just a short walk from Mykonos Town and are especially beautiful around sunset. They are a reminder of Mykonos's agricultural past and its importance as a grain-producing island.

Several windmills remain around the island, but the five at Kato Mili are the most recognizable.

Little Venice is one of the most recognizable areas of Mykonos.

Colorful buildings sit right along the water, and many of them now house restaurants and bars. Come in the late afternoon and stay for sunset. The area gets its name from its resemblance to Venice, with buildings constructed directly along the waterfront.

Little Venice sits beside the Kato Mili windmills, making it easy to visit both in the same walk.

This beautiful white church is one of the most photographed sights in Mykonos.

What looks like one unusual building is actually a complex of five churches built over several centuries. Its bright white walls against the blue sky and sea make it especially beautiful.

The church dates back to the 15th century, with the final structure completed in the 17th century. It is located in the Kastro neighborhood, near the entrance to Little Venice.

Want to see a quieter side of Mykonos?

Head inland to Ano Mera, a traditional village about 20 minutes from Mykonos Town. Visit the Panagia Tourliani Monastery, then sit down for a leisurely Greek lunch in the village square.

Ano Mera is centered around a large village square and is one of the island's main inland settlements. The Panagia Tourliani Monastery was founded in 1542 and contains a carved wooden iconostasis (a carved wooden screen or wall) and other religious artwork.

Mykonos has a beach for almost every type of traveler.

Ornos and Platis Gialos are great choices if you want an easy beach day with restaurants and amenities nearby. Elia offers beautiful scenery and a more relaxed atmosphere, while Paradise and Super Paradise are known for their entertaining beach clubs and nightlife.

The island has more than 20 beaches, with options ranging from organized beaches with sunbeds and restaurants to quieter stretches of sand. Many of the southern beaches are accessible by boat from Mykonos Town and other coastal areas.

Consider a day trip to combine beautiful beaches with thousands of years of history. Take a boat from Mykonos to nearby Delos, one of the most important sacred sites of the ancient Greek world. You can walk among ancient temples, houses, theaters, and marble statues while imagining what life was like here thousands of years ago.

Plan this as a half-day trip from Mykonos.

According to Greek mythology, Delos was the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. The island became an important religious center and later a major commercial and financial center in the Aegean. Today, Delos is an archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Refer a friend using your referral link at the bottom of this email so they can see it too. In addition, you’ll get a copy of our “Wonders of the World” eBook if it’s your first referral.

The easiest way to reach Mykonos is by flying into Mykonos International Airport (JMK). During the summer, there are direct flights from many European cities, and you can connect through Athens if you're traveling from the United States.

Another popular option is taking a ferry from Athens. Ferries leave from the port of Piraeus, and the journey typically takes several hours depending on the ferry you choose.

You can also reach Mykonos by ferry from other Greek islands, making it easy to combine Mykonos with destinations such as Santorini, Naxos, Paros, or Crete.

Once you're on the island, buses connect Mykonos Town with many of the popular beaches. Taxis and water taxis are also available, although renting a car or ATV can give you more flexibility for exploring.

Here are some gorgeous places to stay when in Mykonos.

Aniko Suites White Alley - luxury apartments right on the water

Boutique Di Vito -within walking distance to the windmills

Oniro Suites - adults only hotel in Mykonos Town

Villa Kampani Sea View Villa in Mykonos - beach front villas in Mykonos Town

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. It's hearty and perfect after a day of exploring.

Souvlaki is an easy choice when you're looking for something quick. Grilled meat is served on skewers or in pita with vegetables, fries, and tzatziki.

Don't leave Mykonos without trying kopanisti, a spicy and creamy local cheese that is often served with bread or as part of a meze spread.

Louza is a traditional Mykonian cured pork specialty. You'll often find it served thinly sliced as an appetizer.

And of course, save room for Greek yogurt with honey, baklava, and plenty of fresh seafood.

Mykonos is hot, sunny, and windy during the summer, so pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Bring a swimsuit and a beach bag for those beautiful Aegean beaches. A light jacket or sweater is also useful because evenings can become breezy.

Comfortable shoes are especially important. The streets of Mykonos Town are beautiful, but you'll be walking on uneven stone and cobblestones.

If you're planning to visit churches or monasteries, pack something that covers your shoulders and knees.

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Mykonos. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob