How Many Days In Mykonos Is Enough?

Are you wondering how many days in Mykonos you might need in order to see the best of its attractions? Then this article is for you!

The main factor influencing how long you should spend at any destination is the type of break you are looking for.

If you are the kind of person who loves to be constantly on the go, then you can see the very best of this vibrant and cosmopolitan island in just a couple of days.

If, however, you prefer to enjoy things at a slower pace, then a 3 to 4-day break may suit you better.

How To Decide How Long To Stay In Mykonos

It’s never easy working out just how long you might need to spend in a particular place to really make the most of it. 

So here are some things to think about when planning how many days for Mykonos you’ll need, followed by a list of the best attractions.

I’ve suggested how long you might want to spend at each one so that you can plan a realistic itinerary.

Time Of Arrival, Hotel Check-In Time, And Time Of Departure

When you decide how many full days you will need to spend in Mykonos, take a look at the times at which you arrive and leave the island. 

A late arrival will limit the amount of sightseeing you can do that day, and so will an early departure. In either case, you might want to consider booking an extra night to give yourself the time you need.

That said, you could book a private transfer in advance to save time.

Your check-in and check-out times are important too because you’ll need to think about what you will do with your luggage. 

It is very common for accommodation providers and hotels to have the facility to store your bags, but be sure to check in advance that this is the case.  If not, then you will need to seek an alternative. 

Fortunately, there are lots of private companies offering this service, with drop-off points at multiple locations. Some cafés and restaurants will store your luggage for a fee too, particularly around the port area.

If you are visiting at the height of the season, I’d recommend booking your luggage storage in advance for extra peace of mind.

Activities In Mykonos

Mykonos has plenty of cool things to see and do. The question is, how many of them do you want to experience for yourself? 

If it’s really important for you to see all of the island’s main attractions – especially if you are unlikely to return – then you need to factor this into the length of your stay and add on a couple of extra nights.

I’ve included suggestions for how long to spend at some of the main sights, but don’t forget to allow for time spent queuing, along with travel time from one attraction to another.

Be realistic about how much you can actually fit into one day.

Note that many travelers book their activities and tours in advance so that they can organize their itinerary and make the most of their trip to Mykonos.

Browse tours and activities in Mykonos

Pace Of Activities

When deciding how many days in Mykonos is enough, the pace of activities you’re happy with is very important. If you over-schedule yourself, you might find yourself visiting lots of attractions but not really appreciating any of them!

Think carefully about what you want – a whirlwind break crammed with activities or a more leisurely visit, with time to enjoy the occasional glass of ouzo and watch the world go by? 

If it’s the latter, make sure you allow yourself 3 to 4 days. If you only have 2 days in Mykonos, it will be a busy holiday!

Transportation

Mykonos is one of the smallest of the Cyclades islands, which means getting around it is relatively quick and easy. Mykonos Chora (the town itself) is pedestrianized, so the only way to explore it is on foot. If you want to travel further afield, then you have a few options. 

The bus service is pretty good and covers the whole island, although it can get busy in the summer, and there may be a wait to get a seat. 

Alternatively, you could rent a car, which can be useful as it gives you a lot of freedom. Do be aware though that the traffic, hair-raising cliff roads, and narrow streets can make driving on the island a challenge.

A better option would be a scooter or motorbike, which is more suited to navigating the streets and far easier to park!

There are also taxis – which are quite expensive – and caïques (small boats), which are great for getting from one beach to another.

What To Do In Mykonos

Here is a run-down of the very best attractions in Mykonos and the ideal amount of time to spend at each one. 

Visit The Windmills Of Kato Mili

Standing on a hill overlooking the town, the Mykonos Windmills are one of the island’s most iconic attractions. Some dating back to the 16th century are the first thing you see when you come into the harbor of Alefkandra. 

Originally used for milling wheat, they finally stopped producing flour in the 20th century and are now there simply to admire for their whitewashed beauty. 

Suggested time: 45 minutes

Walk Around The Town

One of the best-preserved of all Greece’s historic towns, Chora (the main town) is filled with lovely whitewashed homes, pretty walled lanes, and tiny churches. 

There are bougainvillea draped fences at every turn and endless photographic opportunities throughout. 

The main street is Matogianni Street, which runs from north to south. In addition to stylish boutiques and jewelry stores, you’ll find international chains like Lacoste here too, plus many good cafés and restaurants. 

Suggested time: 2 to 3 hours

See The Monastery Of Panagia Tourliani 

Located in Ano Mera village – about 8 km from the main town – this impressive monastery was originally built in 1542 then restored in 1767. 

Like many of the religious buildings in Mykonos, it is whitewashed, but it also has a striking red dome. In the courtyard you’ll see a beautiful marble fountain, whilst the interior is decorated with icons of saints and apostles, hanging incense holders, and New Testament scenes. 

The flower-covered wooden altar screen ( the iconostasis) is particularly impressive and was made by Florentine artists in 1775.

Suggested time: 1 to 2 hours

Have Lunch Or Dinner In Little Venice

Mykonos has its very own Venice and it is one of the most picturesque parts of the island. 

Built in the 16th century, it was designed with the balconies of the buildings overhanging the water.

Pretty as these may look, the reason for them was rather more practical, as they allowed residents to load and unload their goods onto ships quickly, without them being stolen by pirates! 

The sunset views here are beautiful so make your dinner reservation well in advance!

Suggested time: 2 hours

Relax In Peace On Fokos Beach

Mykonos has many beautiful beaches, but they get very crowded. Fokos Beach – 12 km to the north of the main town – is the exception. 

The most secluded beach on the island, you can only reach it by car, taxi, or motorbike. Wide, sandy, and incredibly clean, it doesn’t have any of the typical facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds. 

But what it does offer is tranquility, beauty, and a lovely little taverna offering excellent traditional food.

Suggested time: 2 to 3 hours

Take A Day Trip To Delos

Delos is an island located just a couple of kilometres by ferry from the southwest coast of Mykonos. 

Containing some of the most important archaeological excavations in Greece, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Here you can see incredible Hellenistic mosaics at the House of Dionysos,  the Terrace of the Lions from the 7th century BC, various market squares, and the wonderful mosaics of the Theatre Quarter.

We recommend you book a guided tour that includes a skip-the-line ticket as well as transportation.

Suggested time: 4 hours

Visit The Church Of Panagia Paraportiani

There are beautiful churches all over the Greek Cycladic islands but this is the one that is photographed the most! 

Located in Mykonos town it has five different chapels, each one added at a different time and all beautifully whitewashed. In addition to its unique appearance, it is worth visiting for the gorgeous views over the  Aegean Sea. 

Visit early in the day when it is quiet for the best photos!

Suggested time: Under an hour

Admire The Art At Dio Horia

Mykonos has a lively contemporary art scene and this gallery not only exhibits some fascinating pieces but also runs a residency program. This makes it possible to meet the artists themselves and discuss the artworks on display. 

The gallery – right in the heart of Mykonos –  also has a wonderful rooftop bar. This hidden gem is a great place in which to indulge in a cocktail as you enjoy an incredible view of the island!

Suggested time: Under an hour

Final Thoughts On Mykonos Getaways

So how many days do you need in Mykonos to see all the sights that interest you most? I hope this guide has helped you decide on the ideal length for your break and that you enjoy every moment of your visit. Mykonos belongs on your Greece bucket list!

Traveling to Greece soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• How many days in Athens
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• How many days in Crete
• How to elope in Greece