Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is the most famous tourist island in the Eastern Mediterranean and certainly the most cosmopolitan among the Cyclades. Mykonos easily captures the visitors interest, thanks to the great variety of choices on offer here. There is something for everyone; "holidays" here can mean anything from the most peaceful relaxation to the wildest partying.

Located on the islands' western harbor, the "Chora" of Mykonos is a very beautiful old island town, which in the past had its own merchant fleet. Today it maintains a balance between tourism-related development and the preservation of its very picturesque features.

There are whitewashed houses, proud windmills, a multitude of chapels, busy back streets with balconies full of flowers and a multicolored fleet of fishing boats in the port.

In the background is the Paraportiani Church; alongside it, sea-washed "Little Venice". After sunset everything changes: crowds throng this luxurious marketplace and the restaurants, bars and discos consign the tiny town to the pleasures and the different rhythm of the night.

Ano Mera one of the most eastern side of the island, a tranquil village in the midst of farms, is a lovely locale, known for its excellent taverns. It is ideal for bicycling and hiking, and there are beaches nearby for swimming and water-sports. Tourists may also visit the two monasteries in the area, "Tourliani" and "Paleokastro".

As long as the sun is shining, the island's greatest attractions are the many beautiful beaches and the clean blue-green sea. Most of the beaches are on the south side of the island. Among these are the much frequented Platy Gialos, Psarou, Ornos, Paranga "Paradise" (Kalamopodi), "Super Paradise" (Blintri), Elia, Kalafati, Kalo Livadi, and Lia. On Mykonos western shore are Agios Stefanos, Houlakia, Tourlos, Megali-Ammos and Agios Yannis (opposite Delos).

A day devoted to exploring Delos is a must before returning home. This ancient ruined city dedicated to Apolo, was also a major center in the Mediterranean.

There are a number of small museums in Mykonos town and, during the summer, there is an outdoor cinema, the Cine Mando, and various art exhibitions, theatrical performances and concerts.

Things to See & Do

* Small Venice" ("Mikri Venetia"),
* Windmills
* The island of Delos
* Paraportiani Church
* Monasteries of Agios Panteleimon

General information

Cruise Season - Feb to Dec
Currency - euro (€)
Language - Greek
Land Area - Greece 130,800 sq km
Population - 11,000
Electricity - 2 pin Round pins European style
Time - GMT+ 0300
International Country Telephone Code - + 30

Port Location - Cruise ships dock at the relatively new cruise port at Tourlos, about 1.2 miles north of Hora (Mykonos Town). Shuttle bus service is provided into town.

Transport Links - Through summer there are daily flights from Mykonos to Athens. Pireus (94 nm) and Rafina (71 nm) There is a regular and high speed ferry boat service to and from Mykonos from Pireus and Rafina. The direct line to and from other destinations in Greece varies throughout the summer season.