Mykonos
Mykonos, Greece is an island of captivating beauty and vibrant energy, a true gem of the Aegean Sea. As part of the Cyclades archipelago, it is famous for its iconic windmills, picturesque Little Venice, and a labyrinth of whitewashed, cubic houses with blue shutters and bougainvillea-lined streets. For a cruiser, Mykonos offers a perfect blend of a relaxing beach day and a chance to explore a charming, historic town with a cosmopolitan flair.
⛵ Port Introduction
Mykonos is a tender port. Your cruise ship will anchor offshore in the picturesque harbor of Mykonos Town. You will then take a tender boat from your ship to the Old Port, which is a short and scenic 5-10 minute ride. The tender will drop you off in the heart of Mykonos Town, placing you right at the edge of all the main attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
The tender landing is a small, public pier in the Old Port. There is no large, permanent terminal building. The area is a simple, open-air setup with a covered walkway and a few benches.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
While there is no main terminal, the tender landing is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find a small welcome area with local volunteers who can provide maps and information. Public restrooms are available. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located a short walk away. You can also find some small shops and cafes right near the landing. Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes and restaurants in town, but the connection may be spotty.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Greek, but due to the high volume of tourism, you will find that English is widely spoken and understood, especially in the main tourist areas. You will have no problem navigating or communicating.
A few useful phrases:
Yassas (YAH-sahs) - Hello
Efharisto (ehf-hah-rees-TOH) - Thank you
Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH) - Please/You're welcome
Pou einai? (poo EE-nay) - Where is...?
Posa kanei? (POH-sah KAH-nee) - How much is this?
💰 Money
The currency is the Euro (€). While Mykonos has had a reputation for being cash-preferred, credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most larger shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is still a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases from street vendors or for bus tickets. ATMs are available in town, but they can sometimes run out of money during the busy summer season.
🚗 Transportation
Mykonos Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and is best explored on foot. To get to other parts of the island, you have a few options.
Walking: The best way to explore Mykonos Town is to walk. The streets are a maze of whitewashed buildings, and getting lost is part of the charm.
Bus: The public bus system is an excellent and affordable way to get to the famous beaches and other parts of the island. The main bus stations are located at Fabrica and the Old Port. The buses are comfortable, and the fare is a few Euros.
Taxis: Taxis are available, but they are very limited in number, so it can be difficult to get one, especially during the high season.
Water Taxis: Water taxis are a great way to get to the southern beaches, like Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach. They run from the Old Port and the bus stations and are a fun and scenic way to get around.
ATVs/Scooters: Renting an ATV or scooter is a popular way to explore the island, but the roads can be narrow, winding, and filled with traffic. It is only recommended for experienced drivers.
♿ Accessibility
Mykonos has an accessibility rating of 1 out of 10. The tender process is a major barrier for people with limited mobility, as you have to get on and off a moving boat. Mykonos Town itself is a labyrinth of narrow streets with steep steps, cobblestones, and uneven surfaces that would be very difficult to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town is to simply walk. The tender will drop you off in the heart of the Old Port, and from there you can walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Mykonos Town, but they are not very common. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
Mykonos Pharmacy: Epar.Od. Mykonou-Ano Meras, Mykonos 846 00, Greece. This is a short taxi ride from the town center.
Konstantinos Koutsoukos Pharmacy: Mykonos Town 846 00, Greece. This is located in the town center.
✨ Authentic Experience
Get Lost in the Maze-like Streets of Mykonos Town: Instead of a long tour, spend your time wandering through the labyrinth of streets in Mykonos Town. The streets were designed to confuse pirates, and you will likely get lost, but that is part of the charm. You can find unique boutiques, hidden cafes, and stunning photo opportunities around every corner.
Dine on Local Greek Meze: For a taste of authentic Greek culture, find a local taverna and order some meze, a selection of small dishes. You can try classic Greek dishes like tzatziki (yogurt dip), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and fried calamari. This is a great way to try a variety of local food and to experience the social nature of a Greek meal.
Visit Little Venice and the Windmills for Sunset: Little Venice, with its charming houses that hang over the water, is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. After you get your photos, take a short walk up the hill to see the famous windmills, a symbol of Mykonos. The view from the top is breathtaking, and it is a perfect way to end a day in port.
