The top Mykonos, Greece, attractions

Mykonos is a Greek island that’s famous for its party scene. But that’s not all it has to offer. It’s also steeped in history and culture. And there are many sides of the island for travelers to explore, from bustling beach clubs to fascinating archaeological sites, serene coastlines and picturesque towns. 

Learn more about what to see in Mykonos and 10 of the island’s top attractions. 

What you’ll learn:

• Mykonos is known for its parties, but it also has a lot to offer travelers who are interested in history, culture or relaxing on a serene beach. 

• Spend a day exploring the Little Venice neighborhood, strolling through the village of Ano Mera or relaxing at Paradise or Paraga Beach. Then, stop by the Armenistis Lighthouse at sunset before heading off for a local wine tour.

• History buffs should consider including the Aegean Maritime Museum, the church of Panagia Paraportiani, Delos Island, the Mykonos Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum of Mykonos in their itineraries. 

• Eligible Capital One cardholders can earn elevated rewards when they use Capital One Travel to book their trip.

Mykonos is multifaceted. There’s the buzzing nightlife scene the island has become famous for. But there’s also a quieter side to Mykonos, with museums, archaeological sites, peaceful towns and serene beaches to explore. 

Use these 10 things to do in Mykonos to help you plan the perfect island vacation.

Little Venice is a historic neighborhood in Mykonos Town. It’s famous for its picturesque, whitewashed buildings and balconies that jut out over the sea. These balconies, combined with the neighborhood’s southwestern orientation, have made it a famous place to view Mykonos’ breathtaking sunsets. 

Little Venice is also home to six 16th-century windmills, another top Mykonos attraction. And while they aren’t operational, they’re still a sight to behold. After snapping some pictures of the windmills, grab a drink or some dinner at a local restaurant—and snag a seat outside to see if you can catch the sunset.

Just a short walk from the windmills, the Aegean Maritime Museum is worth a visit for history buffs visiting Mykonos. Learn about the history of Greek nautical traditions while exploring the 19th-century building the museum is housed in. You’ll be able to see ship models, rare shipping documents and maps, and ancient tools.

The church of Panagia Paraportiani is made up of five chapels that were each built at different times. The earliest was built in the 14th century and the last was constructed in the 17th century, giving the church a unique mix of architectural styles and historical context.

Mykonos has become synonymous with beach clubs and nightlife culture. If that’s something you want to explore on your trip, consider spending a night or two at Paradise Beach or Paraga Beach. Both locations have beach clubs, hotels and bars that host parties featuring live music, dancing and a lively atmosphere. If staying out late isn’t your scene, you can visit these beaches during the day and enjoy some family-friendly fun.

Take a tour of the Armenistis Lighthouse, which has overlooked the coast of Mykonos since the 1800s. This landmark is another one of the best spots on the island to take in a sunset and views of the sparkling sea. You might even be able to spot some neighboring islands from the top of the lighthouse.

Delos is a small island that’s steeped in Greek mythology and history. According to myth, Apollo and Artemis were born on Delos. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient ruins of temples, houses and theaters. There’s also a small archaeological museum you can visit to learn more about the island’s history.

This museum boasts a wide array of artifacts, including furniture, ceramics, paintings, textiles, photographs and nautical equipment, mostly from the 18th century. It’s a way to catch a glimpse of what life was like in Greece during that time and see some of the real objects people used every day. Plus, the museum is housed in an 18th-century sea captain’s house, so the building itself provides the perfect backdrop for the exhibits.

Book a wine tour and sip some of Mykonos’s best wines from local makers. You might even be able to tour the vineyards and learn about Greek wine culture and history while you enjoy a glass.

Marvel at ancient artifacts, marble statues, pottery and relics from centuries-old shrines at the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. This small museum is packed with captivating finds from Mykonos and the surrounding islands, including a piece of pottery depicting the fall of Troy.

The inland village of Ano Mera can give you a taste of the island’s more peaceful side and a glimpse of what life is like for Mykonos locals. Spend the day exploring the town’s cobblestone streets and stop by a local taverna for a meal. The 16th-century Panagia Tourliani Monastery is also just outside Ano Mera, and its Byzantine-era frescoes and ornately carved bell tower make it well worth a visit.

Peak tourist season in Mykonos tends to be during the summer months, when vacationers flock to the island to delight in the sun and sand. If you have your eye on Mykonos for its vibrant nightlife, you may want to plan your visit during July or August to revel in the buzzing crowds. 

If you want to visit during a less busy time, early fall may be the best time to go to Mykonos. Typically, you’ll still get to enjoy some warm weather in September and October while avoiding the big summer crowds. 

Regardless of when you go, Capital One Travel can help you book your trip with confidence. Capital One Travel helps track flight prices, predict when it’s the right time to book and can help you save an average of 15% on flights. Booking a trip through Capital One Travel also lets eligible cardholders earn elevated rewards.

Mykonos is a dream destination for many travelers. This sun-drenched island has something for everyone, whether you’re going to explore the nightlife, soak up local history and culture, or relax on a peaceful beach. 

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