Mykonos is probably the most famous of all Greek islands and a travel and sailing mecca. Mykonos Town, or Hora, is the islands port and capital. In many ways a typical Cycladic village its winding alleys are maze-like and it is easy, and enjoyable, to get lost in them. Despite the crowds, Mykonos Town has a distinct charm and a quintessential Greek atmosphere. The white-washed houses like cubes lining the bay contrast exquisitely with the bluest sea.
The centre of the city is pedestrianised during most of the day which makes wandering the streets pleasant. A number of trendy cafes, chic boutiques, souvenir shops and jewellery stores are scattered across the town, offering great shopping opportunities.
The famous whitewashed windmills, trademark of the island, stand to attention on a hill overlooking the city, from where the views are spectacular. Below the windmills is Little Venice, a celebrated area and one of the most beautiful parts of the capital.
Mykonos is also something of a clubbing mecca, so be prepared for loud music and all-night revelries.
Mykonos Marina, known locally as the New Port, is a partly finished marina situated about 2km north of Mykonos Town. It provides good shelter from the prevailing winds and is quiet. The best anchorages, for sailing yachts, are on Mykonos’s south coast.
Mykonos has an International Airport about 4km away from the Mykonos Town. There are daily flights from Athens. During the summer months there are flights to other Greek cities and islands and a number of flights from European cities.
From the Greek mainland ferries and high-speed catamaran services run daily from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina.
Sailing or motor yacht charters are a great way to visit Mykonos as you can sail around the island and anchor in a beautiful bay of your choice. During the summer, the prevailing Meltemi wind blows from North-Northwest throughout the day reducing force during the night. Strong winds are not uncommon and provide quite challenging sailing during July and August. Mykonos is known as “the island of winds”.