Things to do in Mykonos

Some say that Mykonos is the Greek Ibiza, but it’s much more than that. Sure, you can party hard on Mykonos, but it’s also an island of astounding cultural, historical, gastronomic and picturesque delights. Mythology in the morning; beach in the afternoon; hedonism in the evening.

The old town is a delight. Take a walking tour to experience Paraportiani church, the old waterfront, Little Venice (really!) and the Alefkandra area. You’ll see the island’s emblematic windmills, the labyrinthine alleys, the traditional cafes and the many tempting shops selling local crafts. In Matoyiannia, on the other hand, international high fashion tempts you.

Venture out from the town and the pleasures of little Mykonos are breath-taking. The cubist collections of white houses at Ano Mera are built in the Cycladic style, and it seems you’re never far from an old monastery like the sixteenth-century Panagia Tourliani. When you’ve reached ‘max monk’, head for the amazing beaches of Kalafatis or Agia Anna and enjoy some local cuisine. Ask for kopanisti cheese or the louza pork dish with a refreshing soumada to wash it down.

History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a boat excursion to the ancient site of Delos: sanctuary of Apollo and the place where all of the wealth of ancient Greece was once stored . . . before the Athenians helpfully offered to keep it ‘safe’ in Athens (i.e. spend it).