Old Town Mykonos was the final stop on my island-hopping adventure in Greece. Since I'd heard the island's name many times, I'd assumed it'd be a budget-friendly destination.
After arriving in Mykonos by ferry from Paros with no accommodation reserved, I learned that's not the case. As I trudged through the Old Town (also known as Chora) under the intense mid-July sun, I couldn't find an available room, let alone one for under $100.
Eventually, after walking up a hill and out of the heart of the Old Town Mykonos, I arrived at Sofia Village, where I took a room for $100 per night. Given the high cost of hotels, I only planned to stay for two nights before flying to Athens.
I used my limited time to wander the streets of Old Town Mykonos, known for its restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. Everything in this story is accessible on foot (no rental car needed).
Whether you're a daytripper from a cruise ship or spending a few nights on land like me, here are the best things to do in Old Town Mykonos
Table of Contents
Mykonos Attractions
Little Venice
Little Venice offers a snapshot of Mykonos' relaxed Greek island life. Here, colorful 18th-century houses hang above the sea, many of which have been converted into bars, restaurants, and shops. I highly recommend grabbing a drink with a view of the Mykonos Windmills across the water.
Like Oia on Santorini, crowds gather along the patios and the little beach for sunset every evening as Little Venice faces west. I prefer the daytime views when the sun illuminates the turquoise waters, and the windmills are easy to see.
At the neighborhood's northern end, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani stands out for its blend of five separate chapels. Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, it's an example of traditional Cycladic architecture.
Windmills of Mykonos
Perched above the sea, these iconic windmills have symbolized Mykonos's role as a grain-processing hub along historic Aegean trade routes since the 16th century.
The windmills used to harness northern winds to grind wheat and barley, contributing to the island's economy and positioning Mykonos as an essential trading hub between mainland Greece and surrounding islands.
Once powered by the Aegean winds to grind wheat, these cylindrical structures with straw-covered roofs now serve as cultural landmarks and a prime location for postcard-perfect views. Travelers on a tight schedule can easily access them on foot from Old Town without spending a dime.
Mykonos Old Port
Mykonos Old Port welcomes cruise passengers and backpackers alike. It's where I arrived by ferry from Paros.
Heading toward Old Town, I passed several multi-million-dollar megayachts reminiscent of those I saw in Rhodes. Mykonos has long been popular among the rich and famous and is a starting point for Mediterranean yacht charters.
Stroll along the waterfront promenade, which is lined with fishing boats and cafes serving inexpensive Greek frappe coffees and savory pies.
Dominating the harbor, the small but striking Church of Agios Nikolaos of Kadena, dating back to the 17th century, honors the patron saint of sailors and reflects the island's enduring maritime traditions.
There are two small beaches in the Old Port. Beachgoers most frequently use Choras Mikonou on the eastern shore. On a sunny day, vacationers sunbathe and swim in the translucent waters. Although the island has far prettier beaches, the Old Port is hard to beat for its ease of use and accessibility.
Walking Around Town
Exploring Old Town Mykonos on foot is a must. Wander the maze of narrow, whitewashed alleyways adorned with bright bougainvillea and small Greek flags.
Matogianni Street, a central artery of Old Town, buzzes with affordable eateries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. You can browse handcrafted jewelry, sample local pastries, or people-watch at a streetside table without breaking the budget.
The experience and scenery were similar to what I saw during my day on Ios. However, Mykonos Town seemed a smidge prettier.
Museums
Boni's Windmill
Boni's Windmill is a restored 16th-century mill that once played a vital role in grain production. Now part of the Agricultural Museum, Boni's Windmill showcases traditional farming tools and structures, like a wine press and bread oven. During summer afternoons, visitors can explore the mill's interior and enjoy the pretty town and harbor views.
Aegean Maritime Museum
Situated in a 19th-century Cycladic house in the Tria Pigadia area, the Aegean Maritime Museum highlights Greece's seafaring history. Exhibits include ship models, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts from antiquity to modern times. The museum's garden features the original Armenistis Lighthouse light and ancient sailors' gravestones from Mykonos and nearby Delos.
Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
On the eastern shore of the Old Harbor, the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos houses artifacts from the neighboring islet of Rheneia and Mykonos, dating from prehistoric to Hellenistic periods. Highlights include pottery, funerary statues, and the notable "Mykonos Vase," a large pithos (earthenware jar) depicting scenes from the fall of Troy.
Shopping
Shopping in Old Town Mykonos is popular, especially when temperatures cool off at night. Along the narrow alleys, especially Matogianni Street, you'll find everything from local gift shops to luxury boutiques. International labels, including Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Gucci, are present here.
For shoppers seeking more affordable local products, Mykonos is renowned for handcrafted leather sandals, intricate jewelry, and ceramics with classic Aegean motifs. Gourmet items like kopanisti (a spicy cheese), local honey, and olive oil make authentic souvenirs.
Dining and Nightlife
As Mykonos was the last stop on my summer trip to the Greek Islands, I spent more than usual on my meals there. Traditional tavernas serving local dishes like grilled octopus and modern eateries offering international cuisine are easy to find.
I had a terrific three-course lunch at M-eating Restaurant, which serves traditional Mediterranean food using modern techniques. It began with a Mykonian onion pie filled with tirovolia cheese (soft, fresh Greek cheese made from sheep, goat, or a mixture of their milk) and continued with a seabass filet.
For dessert, I ordered a giant chocolate mousse with coffee and cream on cookie crumbles. While I'd still have a few days in Athens, leaving the islands felt like the end of my vacation. I celebrated with sugar!
The town experiences its second wind as night falls, with various bars and clubs attracting partygoers after dinner. Enjoy cocktails at spots like Scarpa in Little Venice, renowned for its sunset views, or experience the energetic atmosphere at Skandinavian Bar and Astra nightclub.
As was often the case during my island adventures, I was pretty beat by the time dinner was over, and content to return to my lodging for some sleep.
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