With its prime location in the Greek Cyclades islands and a long tradition for being a truly remarkable Aegean Sea destination, Mykonos is one port of call that cruise passengers will not want to miss out on. Since being settled on by the Ionians back during the 11th century BC, Mykonos has been pretty much continually inhabited and has seen a huge stretch of history unfold around it. Best known for its amazing beaches and thumping nightlife, this island will keep you busy, entertained – and thoroughly charmed – for as long as you are willing to stay. From Little Venice to Koukounaries Beach, Mykonos has a little bit of something for travelers of every taste, age and sensibility.
Sightseeing & Things To Do
Whether you are in the mood to let loose and participate in a bit of late night revelry – or if you just want to see what all the fuss is about when it comes to the Greek islands – Mykonos is one place you don’t want to miss. If your ship is going to dock in Mykonos, make sure to get off it and head off for a bit of excitement. From delicious food to compelling towns and historic sites, Mykonos is one part of the world that deserves its excellent reputation.
As small as it may be, Mykonos is truly jam packed with enticing things to see and do. Make it a point to get off of your cruise ship and head over to one of the following attractions. Your time on Mykonos will be all the more memorable for it:
Roam The Streets Of Hora
As the capital of Mykonos, Hora is a wonderful place to get a feel for the culture and history of this intriguing island. The narrow, winding streets – which were supposedly designed in a confusing way in order to ward off pirates – will capture your imagination, and there are surprises at every turn. Shop, dine and just take in the atmosphere of Hora.
Visit Little Venice
Although its not a series of canals that give this part of Mykonos its name, Little Venice is a popular spot with tourists because it is so picturesque. Colorful balconies are what this region is known for, and you won’t be able to put your camera down when you have a chance to explore.
Discover Delos
Whether you are well acquainted with Greek mythology or not, Delos is one place that you should check out. It is a tiny, dry, rocky island where many important events in Greek mythology are said to have occurred. An archeological museum on the island is a wonderful way to learn a lot more about the region as a whole.
Koukounaries Beach
Although there is a beach for everyone on Mykonos, if you are determined to experience the quintessential Mykonos party scene, be sure to spend a bit of time on Koukounaries Beach.
Shopping
Mykonos offers up plenty of opportunities for those who want to engage in some serious shopping. Hora is probably the best place to do so, though, so make a plan to spend a bit of time on Hora’s waterfront. There are plenty of intriguing shops on the Hora waterfront, and the wonderful views also make this a scenic way to spend a bit of cash. Regardless of what you pick – and even if you choose to only window shop – you will find that shopping in Hora on Mykonos is a really once in a lifetime experience.
Best Souvenir To Bring Back To the Cruise Ship
The proud Greek tradition of producing amazing art lives on to this day on Mykonos. In Hora, pick up a piece of locally produced art or a bit of jewelry; either one would make a splendid souvenir to remember Mykonos by.
Eating – Sample the Local Cuisine
Food is nearly as important to life on Mykonos as partying and soaking up the sun are. Greek food, naturally, is found in abundance on this island so be prepared to eat. From hummus to moussaka to grape leaves, kebabs and calamari, you simply can’t step a foot or two without being presented with some sort of delectable Greek dish. Although many kinds of international cuisine are also found in abundance on Mykonos, there is no question that authentic Greek dishes are the way to go.
When, Where, and How
When To Go
Like much of Greece, the late spring – as in April, May and early June – is the absolute best time to be on Mykonos. The crowds are generally much thinner at that time, and the weather is warm but not terribly hot. Truly, though, any time is a wonderful time to be on this superb Greek island.
Where You’re Docked
If your cruise ship is going to be anchored, tenders will deliver you directly to where all of the action is on this windswept Aegean Sea island. On the other hand, if your ship actually docks you will have the option of taking a shuttle – or hoofing it – into the heart of Mykonos. The choice is entirely yours, and either one is pleasant in its own way.
Which Cruise Ships Go Here?
Many of the major cruise lines have itineraries that include stops at Mykonos. A few of the larger cruise lines that stop at Mykonos are Azamara Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard and Norwegian Cruise Line. However, there are many other options available in terms of dates, ships, days in port and at sea when it comes to Mykonos.