My best friend and I had been dreaming about visiting Mykonos for the last few years, but we hadn’t actually made the trip until this summer. It was a spontaneous, last-minute decision, but we made it happen! Within a few days, we booked our flights, reserved a hotel, and were on our way to meet in Greece. If you’re planning your first trip to Mykonos, here are a few things we learned along the way that will help you have the best experience on this magical island.
Time to Visit:
The best times to visit Mykonos are between June and September. July and August are peak season, with the most events, best DJ lineups, and, of course, the highest prices. If you’re planning to attend famous DJ parties, check the DJ lineup beforehand and base your travel dates on that. However, if you want to enjoy Mykonos in season but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe, June or September are ideal months to visit. We visited in late summer, and while it was busy, the energy was incredible.
Where to Stay:
Mykonos offers plenty of stunning hotels and Airbnbs, but they can be pricey. A good option is to stay close to the town center (Chora), where you can easily walk to restaurants, shops, and bars. If you’re more into beach clubs and parties, consider staying near popular spots like SantAnna or Scorpios. This will save you on transportation costs, as most clubs are located in that area.
Transportation:
Getting around the island requires some planning. Mykonos is small but not walkable from end to end, so you’ll need transportation. Taxis can be expensive—around 40 euros each way—so it’s worth considering renting a car, quad, or motorcycle. There are also buses, which are an affordable and reliable way to get around the island, especially to and from the beaches.
Beach Bars:
Beach bars in Mykonos can be a bit of a splurge. Sunbeds range from 40 euros per person (you won’t find cheaper) to 200-300 euros at exclusive spots, and there’s often a minimum spend requirement for the day. However, spending a day at a beach club is worth it for the atmosphere, relaxation, and parties that kick off around 5 p.m. Some of our favorite beach clubs were Kalua, SantAnna, Super Paradiso, Tropicana, and Elia Beach. The vibe is pure Mykonos: fun, glamorous, and all about soaking in the sun and sea.
Nightlife:
Mykonos is famous for its nightlife, and for good reason! From vibrant beach bars to world-class clubs, this island knows how to party. Some of our favorite spots were Scorpios, Alemagou, Cavo Paradiso, and Tropicana. Don’t forget to explore the clubs and bars in Little Venice—by night, the narrow streets turn into a big party! The energy is unlike anything else we’ve experienced, and you can feel the pulse of the island in the music, people, and atmosphere.
Outfits & Accessories:
Plan your outfits ahead of time, especially if you want to nail that perfect beach-to-party look. I wish I had packed more curated swimsuits and accessories—scarves, hats, jewelry, and sunglasses are key to looking chic on the beach and at sunset parties. Think light, flowy dresses, cute cover-ups, and glam sandals. Mykonos is all about style, so have fun with your fashion choices!
Comfortable Shoes:
Leave most of your heels at home! Trust me, Mykonos’ cobblestone streets and sandy beaches are not heel-friendly. I suggest bringing one pair of heels for special nights out, but prioritize comfortable sandals for day and night. A pair of sneakers is also a good idea for exploring the island and hiking to scenic spots.
Reservations:
If you’re traveling in a big group, make sure to reserve tables in advance for both daytime beach clubs and nighttime restaurants and clubs. Mykonos gets busy, and you don’t want to miss out on the best spots. Since it was just the two of us, we were able to wing it without reservations, but for groups of three or more, I’d definitely recommend booking ahead.
Leave Expensive Items at Home:
As beautiful and luxurious as Mykonos is, it’s also known for petty theft. Don’t bring too many expensive items or flashy jewelry. Sadly, people do get robbed, so keep your valuables secure and be cautious.
Check DJ Lineups Before Your Trip:
One of the main reasons people flock to Mykonos is for the world-class DJs. Make sure to check the DJ lineup and plan your trip accordingly. You don’t want to miss the biggest names playing at your favorite clubs!
Conclusion:
Mykonos truly lived up to the hype for us—it’s the ultimate destination for fun, relaxation, and endless parties. Whether you’re lounging at a luxurious beach club or dancing the night away at one of the island’s iconic clubs, there’s something magical about the energy of Mykonos. It’s a place where you can fully embrace the good life, soak up the sun, and enjoy the best music, food, and scenery. We had the time of our lives, and we can’t wait to return to this incredible island!