And finally, to the insider’s tip for a magical sunset spot to end your day: the most photographed church in Mykonos, Panagia Paraportiani. Sculpted into the rock and painted the most radiant white, its name translates as ‘Our Lady of the Side Gate’ because its entrance was found in a small side entrance to the Kastro area. It has stood in this spot for 600 years, with construction starting in 1425 and completed in the 17th century. What isn’t immediately obvious is that it is actually five churches, with four built at ground level and a fifth, Byzantine church, one floor up.
Panagia Paraportiani
FAQs about Mykonos island
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Where is Mykonos?
Mykonos is a member of Greece’s Cyclades islands, the most famous island chain in the Aegean Sea.
How do you get to Mykonos by ferry?
There are regular ferries to/from Piraeus and Rafina (eastern Attica) and many other Greek islands, including the Cyclades (Santorini, Ios, Milos, Syros, Paros, Naxos, Tinos etc), Dodecanese (including Rhodes and Kos) and Crete. High-speed ferries can reach Santorini from Piraeus in 2.5hrs while conventional ferries take 5-6hrs. There are two ports on Mykonos, the Old and New Port, approximately 1.5km apart. Most ferries from Piraeus arrive at the New Port (Tourlos). The Old Port, which is closer to the main town (Hora), serves smaller vessels.
Does Mykonos have an airport?
Mykonos has an airport with regular direct flights to Athens and international arrivals during the summer months.
What is Mykonos famous for?
Mykonos is known for its Cycladic architecture (whitewashed houses, alleyways and chapels), cosmopolitan vibe and luxury accommodation and services, as well as its party scene and beautiful, sandy beaches. Many have internationally-acclaimed restaurants and beach clubs, attracting celebrity DJs. Hora is considered one of the most iconic capitals of the Greek islands, with a selection of gourmet and traditional restaurants and bars as well as galleries and shopping options (boutique and traditional). But you will also find plenty of hotels/villas, restaurants and shops in settlements and by beaches around the island.
What are the cultural landmarks of Mykonos?
The most famous landmarks on Mykonos are the windmills and Little Venice of Hora, as well as the 17th-century Church of Paraportiani, Castle of Gyzi, Monastery of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera and the Neolithic settlement of Ftelia.
How many days do you need in Mykonos?
There are so many things to do in Mykonos that you can dedicate your entire holiday (6-7 days) to the island, but you can also spend just a few days there as part of an island-hopping itinerary to get a taste for it.
What are the islands closest to Mykonos?
There are boat tours to Delos and Rinia, which are the islands closest to Mykonos. Delos is a fascinating ancient site, with temples dedicated to the god Apollo who (according to legend) was born on the island. Rinia has beautiful swimming spots. Other Cycladic neighbours, perfect for island-hopping, are Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos.
When is the best time to visit Mykonos?
Mykonos does get busy in the peak holiday months, so visit in April-mid-June & mid-September-early November if you can, when the experience becomes even more personal but the weather is usually still great.