Deciding where to stay in Mykonos is one of the first decisions you’ll need to make if you’re planning to visit this jewel of the Cyclades. You have the option of staying in its capital, Chora, or at one of its varied beaches. These beaches cater to a range of tastes, with some tailored to party-goers, others to families, and some aimed at those seeking tranquillity.
My first piece of advice would be to rent a car, or given the compact size of the island, perhaps a motorcycle. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace without being constrained by schedules.
Moreover, with your own transport, the location of your accommodation becomes less critical. Mykonos is quite small, and with short trips, you can easily reach any corner of the island.
Just to give you a rough idea, the island stretches to a maximum length of about 14 km and has a width of roughly 10 km.
Now, let’s delve into the best areas to stay in Mykonos.
Best Areas to Stay in Mykonos
Here’s a quick overview of Mykonos’ best places to stay, with detailed descriptions and accommodation recommendations to follow:
- Mykonos Town (Chora) – Ideal for first-time visitors. It’s the heart of the island with easy access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife. However, it can be quite crowded and pricey, especially in peak season.
- Paradise and Super Paradise Beaches – The epicenters of Mykonos’ famous party scene. Best for younger travelers and party-goers looking to be in the middle of the action.
- Ornos – A family-friendly area with a beautiful beach and a variety of dining options. It’s close enough to Mykonos Town for convenience but far enough for a more relaxed vibe.
- Platis Gialos – Known for its stunning beach and luxury hotels. Perfect for beach lovers and those looking for upscale accommodation.
- Elia Beach – A bit further from Mykonos Town, known for its long sandy beach and less crowded atmosphere. Great for a more laid-back holiday experience.
- Ano Mera – A traditional village offering a glimpse into the authentic Mykonian lifestyle. It’s more affordable and peaceful, suitable for longer stays or those on a budget.
- Kalo Livadi – Suited for visitors who prefer a relaxed beach setting with moderate nightlife, offering a mix of tranquility and entertainment.
- Agios Stefanos – Perfect for travelers wanting proximity to Mykonos Town while enjoying a less crowded beach atmosphere.
- Agios Sostis – Ideal for those looking for a quieter, more secluded beach experience away from the main tourist hubs.
- Agios Ioannis – Offers a quieter, more secluded experience with breathtaking views of Delos Island. Ideal for romantic getaways or those seeking peace and tranquility.
1. Mykonos Town, best area to stay in Mykonos for first time
Mykonos Town, also known as Chora, is the island’s capital and, in my opinion, the best area to stay in Mykonos.
This is because it is the hub of most sights to see, offers the broadest range of services, and provides an unrivalled atmosphere at night for dining out, not to mention its vibrant nightlife.
On the other hand, considering the island’s petite size, a short drive will transport you to any beach, making the capital an excellent base from which to explore the island and the most intriguing place to spend your time after a beach day or sightseeing.
Mykonos Town is a charming coastal city with the typical whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, centred around a beautiful harbour. This harbour, before the construction of the new port of Tourlos (1 km from the city centre), was the island’s main one.
Surrounding the harbour and a bit further south, you’ll find the old town, the most tourist-friendly area housing much of Chora’s accommodation offerings.
On the outskirts, like much of the island, you’ll find more residential areas with developments scattered here and there, or villa-style accommodations.
You can begin your visits at the old harbour, which has ample parking in the northern area. Along the harbour, there are places of interest like the tiny Choras Beach and a small pier to the south where you can book day boat trips.
Between the pier and the aforementioned beach, you’ll stumble upon the mini Church of Saint Anna, a spotless white building topped with a typical orthodox dome (curiously red instead of blue).
Near the harbour, don’t miss the Mykonos Archaeological Museum, where you can delve into the island’s prehistory. Further south, another church: Panagia Paraportiani, also brilliantly white and one of the island’s most visited.
A few metres further south, still facing the coast, is the famous district of Little Venice, a tourist area known for its colourful houses by the sea, beach, and terraces, even if there are no canals.
Walking through its narrow streets is a charming experience and the most exciting area for a night out.
Inside the city, other must-see spots include the Aegean Maritime Museum and the Rarity Gallery.
One of the highlights that you shouldn’t miss and for which the island is famous is its windmills, often featured on Mykonos postcards.
These are located south of Little Venice, on a small promontory facing the coast, and are a popular spot to enjoy sunsets.
Interestingly, one of these windmills houses a souvenir shop if you wish to take home a memento. However, the main shopping area is more towards the centre, just south of the old harbour, on streets like Agias Paraskevis. The shops are small but varied.
Another reason why Mykonos is a top tourist destination is its gastronomic and leisure offerings.
Regarding restaurants, you’ll find a good selection in the southern area of the old harbour, where you can try places like Captain’s, serving tapas-style food or shared plates, or Remezzo Mykonos Restaurant, a classic and one of the island’s most recommended.
Further inland, in the shopping area, there are more establishments, some quite luxurious like m-eating or more affordable ones like Jimmy’s Gyros, specializing in gyros, the Greek version of kebab.
If you’re looking for a drink in the afternoon or want to extend the night, Little Venice offers pubs, cocktail bars, and waterfront bars.
For the night owls, Mykonos Town doesn’t disappoint with several nightclubs open until dawn.
Best Hotels in Chora, Mykonos
- (€€€) Semeli Hotel
- (€€) Vencia Boutique Hotel
- (€) Matina Hotel
2. Paradise Beach/Super Paradise Beach - Best Area to Stay in Mykonos for Party Lovers
One of the reasons why Mykonos has become a renowned destination is its impressive tourism offerings. Within this offering, the beaches play a leading role.
South of the airport, you’ll find these two beach spots, radiating a constant party atmosphere. Plus, there are buses that shuttle travellers from other parts of the island.
Both beaches – separated by just over a kilometre – are excellent places to stay in Mykonos if you are into partying and wish to be in an area dominated by young people. There’s even camping available.
Let’s start with Paradise Beach, the one further west and located in a large bay. The beach stretches about three hundred meters in length and is quite wide; although during peak seasons, it gets packed with tourists.
All the hustle and bustle happen around the beach, where most accommodations of the area are located; even the aforementioned camping, which allows for a few days stay at an affordable price.
Additionally, if you enjoy diving, this tourist complex houses a diving centre (Mykonos Dive Center).
You won’t have to go far for a bite to eat either. Beachfront, you’ll find beach clubs, restaurants and snack bars like Aris Pizza, Tropicana Beach Bar or Guapaloca.
A bit north, in front of the bus station, there’s another popular and affordable restaurant: CheckPoint Mykonos.
But the most exciting feature of this place is its nightclubs. Large, open-air venues frequented by top DJs of the moment, allowing you to dance until dawn. The most popular ones are Paradise Beach Club Mykonos and Cavo Paradiso Club Mykonos.
As for Super Paradise Beach, the vibe is a bit more laid-back and, although both beaches are very tolerant places, this second beach is known for being gay-friendly.
Thus, accommodations in Mykonos are also ideal destinations for this community. In fact, the two most important beachside venues and clubs (Jackie O’Beach and Super Paradise Beach Club, which is also a hotel) advertise themselves as gay-friendly.
In terms of dining in the area, you’ll find prices a bit higher than at Paradise Beach, especially at Jackie O’Beach. However, if you’re seeking a bit more tranquillity, this second beach doesn’t get as crowded as it doesn’t have such large nightclubs.
Best Hotels in Paradise Beach, Mykonos
3. Ornos - An Excellent Beach Area with a Prime Location
Located on the western part of the island is the Ioannis peninsula, separated from the larger part of Mykonos island by Ornos, an ideal spot for tranquil tourism and excellent connectivity.
The town boasts two beaches, one to the north, Korfos, and another to the south, Ornos. This southern beach, Ornos Beach, lends its name to the town, which also extends to the east and west.
At Ornos Beach, about 200 metres within a bay, you’ll find all kinds of tourist services: from sun loungers, umbrellas and beach clubs to companies where you can rent small boats, with or without a skipper, to explore the bay.
If you prefer to stroll along the coastline, especially on the eastern side, you’ll come across great restaurants like Apaggio and Buddha Bar Beach Mykonos, to the south, with a small beach. The latter is an excellent luxury restaurant, but quite pricey.
Back at Ornos Beach, there are more affordable restaurants like Aperanto Galazio or Kostantis.
And if you cross the town northwards to Korfos Beach, you’ll find a much quieter spot, but with fewer services and restaurants, although more budget-friendly.
As for nightlife, Ornos is a destination for a quiet holiday. You won’t find much of a vibrant night scene here.
However, considering the island’s compact size and thanks to Ornos’ location close to Mykonos Town and Paradise Beach, a few minutes’ drive will take you to bustling areas.
Here, you’ll find a good variety of accommodations. From one to five-star hotels to apartments and villas, there’s something to suit every traveller’s preference and budget.
Best Hotels in Ornos, Mykonos
4. Platis Gialos - Best Area in Mykonos for a Beach Stay
Just under a kilometre from Paradise Beach, Platis Gialos is another perfect tourist destination for those seeking to enjoy leisure, sun, and the beach while staying in Mykonos.
Boasting a wide array of accommodation options, it’s also conveniently connected by bus to the airport and the capital.
Though the main and most equipped beach is Platis Gialos itself, the bay hosts several other beaches within walking distance. To the west, you have Psarou, where you can visit the Eden Fine Art Gallery. To the south, you can relax at Agia Anna, and even further south in a small bay, is Paraga, renowned for its excellent culinary offerings.
Interestingly, this beach is home to a small shopping centre called Caravana, where you can buy local products such as clothing, footwear, or souvenirs.
Back north, at Psarou beach, you’ll find another shopping centre: Nammos Village, albeit a bit smaller, in addition to other small shops scattered around.
When it comes to dining, Platis Gialos is well-served and boasts numerous establishments offering a variety of cuisines. If you’re a seafood and fish lover, DK Oyster is a must-try.
For local food specialists with sharing plates and small dishes, head to Yialo, Yialo. And if you’re keen to try new culinary experiences, make a visit to Avli Tou Thodori.
These three restaurants are priced moderately and, importantly, have terraces facing the beach, perfect for enjoying a romantic sunset dinner.
If you’re looking to enjoy the night, Platis Gialos might not compete with neighbouring Paradise. Nevertheless, you can always enjoy a good cocktail or one of the island’s craft beers at the mentioned spots.
And remember, you’re just a short drive away from the buzz of neighbouring Paradise Beach, or even Mykonos Town, which is less than 6 kilometres away after all.
Best Hotels in Platis Gialos, Mykonos
- (€€€) Branco Mykonos
- (€€) Acrogiali Beach Hotel Mykonos
- (€) Hotel Anna
5. Elia - Ideal for a Tranquil Beach Vacation
Now let’s head east of Paradise to Elia Beach, an excellent option for those seeking a serene vacation while staying in Mykonos.
Elia is the largest beach in the area, yet it’s almost seamlessly connected to Agrari towards the west, where you can find a fantastic beach bar, the Sunrise Mykonos Restaurant.
Plus, if you’re a naturist, you’ll be pleased to know that the westernmost part of Elia Beach has an area reserved for naturist tourism.
Moreover, towards the eastern part of the beach, you’ll find a service that rents equipment for various water sports.
When it comes to dining, the choices are slightly limited besides hotel establishments; there are only three restaurants: the beach bar Capelayo Food Senses (not really recommended), Restaurant Elia Beach, and Espuma.
As for nightlife, well, you might want to leave that idea behind. Elia is a destination designed for quiet vacations and early bedtimes.
Although there are a couple of hotels, apartments and villas predominantly make up the accommodation landscape. They’re scattered here and there, but all are within a kilometre of the beach or directly facing it. This ensures that no matter where you choose to stay, the beach is never too far away.
Best Hotels in Elia, Mykonos
6. Ano Mera - A Charming Inland Village
We continue our journey eastward, this time to discuss an inland village renowned for its grand monastery. Despite Ano Mera’s location away from the coast, a short drive will take you to beaches like Kalo Livadi.
Unlike the beach areas, Ano Mera has a larger local population, allowing you a glimpse into the daily life of the islanders.
This village is famous for the 16th-century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani. Its considerable size encompasses several buildings, including a church with a large bell tower that stands out above the rest of the village.
Around this religious complex, you’ll find the most critical tourist services, including a gourmet meat shop named Kokoras, bakeries, coffee franchise shops like Coffee Island, a fresh produce market across from the monastery, and even a clothing boutique.
The restaurant scene in Ano Mera is quite impressive, with eateries clustered around the monastery and offering a charming rustic touch.
Prominent among them are Fisherman Giorgos & Marina, specializing in seafood; the Greek restaurant To Steki Tou Proedrou, and the popular Odos Araxame, known for its reasonable prices and large terrace.
In summary, Ano Mera may be a small village, but it has all the amenities necessary for a pleasant vacation.
While it may not have the most diverse range of accommodations, there are options. Villas and apartments predominate here, and there are also a couple of hotels scattered around the outskirts. So, while it may not offer the buzz of the busier beach areas, Ano Mera provides a tranquil and culturally rich alternative.
Best Hotels in Ano Mera, Mykonos
7. Kalo Livadi - Affordable Beachside Accommodation in Mykonos
Despite its somewhat rural character, Kalo Livadi beach offers all the tourist amenities – albeit a bit scattered – for a delightful and peaceful vacation.
Hotels and apartments are a significant part of this. Some are situated on a hill to the west, offering unbeatable views of the beach and the bay in which it sits.
Kalo Livadi’s extensive beach with clear, shallow waters is the area’s main attraction. It lacks a promenade and retains an almost untouched quality. Yet, during the high season, it’s adorned with umbrellas and sunbeds and equipped with all the necessary facilities for a pleasant beach day.
For those who prefer something quieter, you can head south along the eastern coast to Loulos beach. Accessible via a path, this intimate beach stretches a mere 50 meters.
Back at Kalo Livadi beach, you’ll find two restaurants, one on each side: Lohan Beach to the west and Solymar to the east. Both feature terraces, and conveniently, sunbeds and umbrellas line the beachfront, allowing an easy transition between dining and lounging.
These two spots also offer the opportunity to stretch out your evening in a relaxed manner. Alternatively, you could head down to Loulos beach to discover the restaurant and cocktail bar, Salty House Pool, and the Prince Bar.
Kalo Livadi is a great beach to spend the day, but personally, I wouldn’t choose it as my base for sleeping in Mykonos. For my taste, there’s a bit too little to do once the sun goes down, and although the island is small, there are other peaceful areas closer to restaurants and nightlife.
That being said, if you do decide on Kalo Livadi for your accommodation, you will find some very economical options, alongside luxury villas and hotels. So if your ideal vacation involves quiet days on the beach and serene nights under the stars, Kalo Livadi might just be the perfect spot for you.
Best Hotels in Kalo Livadi, Mykonos
8. Agios Stefanos - Beachside Proximity to Mykonos Town
Now, let’s switch coasts and head west to recommend Agios Stefanos, a beach located immediately north of Mykonos’ New Port. In fact, the beach’s southern tip meets the western side of the substantial port.
Due to its proximity to the port and Chora, the area boasts an impressive range of accommodations, from budget apartments to five-star hotels. Nevertheless, the area maintains a serene, largely residential vibe.
As for local attractions, they’re primarily coastal. You can head down to the New Port where boat rental services are available or find amusement in observing the bustling maritime traffic of all shapes and sizes.
Naturally, the most engaging part lies on the beach of Agios Stefanos itself. It’s a rather peaceful spot, boasting considerable length, areas as wide as 50 meters, and waters that are clear and not too deep.
Two terrace restaurants grace the beach: the Saint Stefanos Cafe Snack Bar & Grill and Taverna Petran, the latter offering remarkably affordable prices. Further south, in a pedestrian zone, you can also enjoy a meal and a pint at the Dublin Irish pub.
A little more inland lies Limmios Tavern, the area’s most popular restaurant.
Agios Stefanos is a practical choice for accommodations in Mykonos. It allows you the convenience of being beachside and also within a very short distance (less than 4 km) of everything Mykonos Town has to offer. From my perspective, it’s the perfect combination of tranquillity and accessibility.
Best Hotels in Agios Stefanos, Mykonos
9. Agios Sostis - Retreat from Touristy Areas
Until now, I haven’t touched upon any options in the northern area of Mykonos. Although it does boast several beaches, they’re less touristy than those in the south and west, and they’re not as well-equipped from a visitor’s perspective.
This is the case with Agios Sostis, a pristine beach nestled in a large bay, offering only a handful of rustic accommodations at reasonable prices.
This beach is connected to the neighbouring Panormos to the south, which has a very similar profile.
As for the beach itself, you’ll encounter about three hundred meters of fine, golden sand and tranquil, shallow waters. However, be sure to bring your own parasols and chairs as the beach lacks such amenities.
To the north of the beach, overlooking a small cove with a few meters of beach and situated on a small promontory, you’ll find Kiki’s Tavern. This restaurant offers excellent cuisine and a terrace from where you can enjoy magnificent views.
In my opinion, Agios Sostis is the perfect choice for those seeking to escape the more touristic areas and immerse themselves in the authentic beauty of Mykonos. It’s an ideal location for those craving a tranquil, unspoiled environment to unwind and relax.
Best Hotels in Agios Sostis, Mykonos
- (€€€) Mykonos Lolita
- (€€) Panormos Village
- (€€) Panormos Bay Suites
10. Agios Ioannis - Best Area to Stay in Mykonos for Families and Older Couples
To wrap up this list of the best areas to stay in Mykonos, my final suggestion is Agios Ioannis. This is one of the island’s most visited tourist destinations due to its extensive beach, although in my opinion, it’s not one of the island’s finest.
Located to the west of Ornos, just 2 km away, Agios Ioannis is an excellent choice for beach lovers seeking a convenient location, relatively close to places like Mykonos Town or Paradise Beach. Plus, it’s well-connected to the rest of the island by bus.
The most exciting part of Agios Ioannis beach is the northern section. There’s a small church right at the start of the beach.
You won’t have to leave the beach to enjoy a good meal. There are several worthwhile restaurants. I highly recommend trying two very popular and welcoming places: Pili Beach Restaurant and Hippie Fish Mykonos, where you can enjoy excellent fish and seafood in a relaxed atmosphere.
Agios Ioannis is a very calm beach area, mainly catering to family tourism and older couples seeking relaxation and an escape from the noise of the younger, more nightlife-oriented beaches. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the tranquil Mediterranean vibes.
Best Hotels in Agios Ioannis, Mykonos
FAQ
Where to stay in Mykonos without a car
For travelers without a car, staying in Mykonos Town (Chora) is highly convenient, offering easy access to public transport, shops, and landmarks. Other great options include Platis Gialos, Ornos, and Psarrou, known for their walkability and good bus connections, making it simple to explore the island’s attractions. Agios Ioannis and Agios Stefanos also provide good amenities and proximity to nice beaches, while Elia Beach is perfect for those seeking a mix of accessibility and seclusion.
Where to stay in Mykonos for couples
For couples or honeymoons in Mykonos, Mykonos Town offers a vibrant setting with its lively atmosphere, spectacular sunsets, and varied dining from fine to traditional. Agios Ioannis is renowned for its romantic sunsets and luxury stays. Elia Beach provides calm waters and upscale accommodations, perfect for a tranquil retreat. Kalo Livadi combines a cosmopolitan vibe with less crowded beaches, suitable for those who enjoy a bit of exclusivity. Lastly, Panormos offers a secluded beach experience with minimal crowds, ideal for privacy and relaxation.
One Response
hello sir, thanks for the great article and info..planning my trip now for sept last 3 weeks of..plz send me any other suggestions to my email if able.peace n joy..