How to Spend 3 Days In Mykonos For First Timers + Map

Oh Mykonos, you are probably one of the most famous of the Cycladic Greek Islands! Now I know a lot of people are using ChatGPT for their travel planning these days. And while sometimes AI can get it right, I would much rather have a human tell me where to go and what to do!

If you’re anything like me, your time is precious, and you want to maximize every moment of your experience.

Having been to Mykonos twice in the last decade and another trip planned for 2025, I know what I am talking about.

​In this itinerary, I will map out each day to the best places Mykonos has to offer! Got questions, contact me!

Want to visit Mykonos on an all-female small group trip? Get all the details about this once-in-a-lifetime trip here!

Getting to Mykonos & What To Expect on Arrival

Depending on where you are starting your Greek Island adventure, you might fly into Mykonos or take the ferry.

If you are planning to explore Athens before visiting the Greek Islands, I recommend taking the ferry instead of flying into Mykonos. Trust me when I say you don’t want to go all the way back to the Athens airport to catch a flight to Mykonos. The ferry takes around two and a half hours from Piraeus, and a taxi to the airport from Athens City center can take about an hour on a good day.

For ferry tickets, I like Ferry Hopper, mainly because they have a helpful app.

But if you want to skip Athens altogether, then fly directly into the Mykonos International Airport, it’s easier. 

Arrival at the ferry port in Mykonos is chaotic. I definitely suggest you arrange for your transport to your hotel from the port ahead of time. Many hotels offer port pickup. For a fee, of course, this is Mykonos, after all.

You will find buses that take you from the port to the main points on the island, like the Mykonos Chora. I linked the schedule below so you can map the stations to your hotel.

• Mykonos Bus Schedule

If you are set on staying a little outside the town to be closer to beaches, I advise you to rent a car so you won’t be beholden to the limited bus schedule. 

I recommend getting a hotel near Mykonos town for convenience especially if you are visiting Mykonos solo.

Exploring Mykonos Chora

When you finally get to Mykonos hit the main town and visit The Iconic Windmills (pretty hard not to see these). They are seldom empty, so if you want to get those Instagram photos you are going to need to go in the morning.

Spend the rest of your day exploring the iconic main shopping area of cute souvenir shops and eateries. I warn you, it is a very expensive town, so try not to forget things like a hat and sunscreen. You will need these essentials, and buying them in Mykonos will be painful.

Having coffee or a cocktail in Little Venice at sunset (it can be hard to get a seat in the peak season, so go early) a great place to go is Negrita.

When it comes to the best eateries in Mykonos, consider the following options: 

• Pepper Souvlaki (street food eats)
• M-eating for a more upscale experience.
• Efisia Greek Fine Dining for the ultimate dining experience in Mykonos.

Then, as the night rolls on, if you want to experience that “vibrant nightlight in Mykonos” everyone is always talking about, check out Scandinavian Bar. 

Beach Hopping in Mykonos

The best way to start the morning on day 2 in Mykonos is by renting a scooter or ATV and exploring the island at your own pace.

This gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems and take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea that you might miss otherwise.

See the free Google map with the suggested ATV route for a curated experience that takes you through some of the most scenic and exciting parts of Mykonos. 

This adventure will lead you to the famous windmills, offering a glimpse into the island’s past and providing perfect photo opportunities against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. 

From there, a short ride will take you to the picturesque Armenistis Lighthouse, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands.

Riding through the small villages will give you a taste of local life, allowing you to experience the island’s culture beyond the typical tourist spots. 

Beach Day

​Plan on spending the rest of the day at the beach. There are so many amazing beaches on the island of Mykonos that I made a helpful list below to give you a better breakdown of what you can expect.

IMPORTANT TIP: if you are planning to visit any of the beach clubs at the beaches below you MUST get a reservation.

All the beaches are FREE, but if you want to get a lounge chair at a club, you, you need a reservation. 

Day Trips From Mykonos

On the final day of this 3-day Mykonos itinerary, take a day trip to Delos Island!

There are guided tour options that are convenient and affordable, offering a deep dive into the island’s rich history and its status as a sacred place and archaeological site.

While you can explore Delos without a tour, opting for one provides a more enriching experience.

A tour guide can bring the ancient ruins to life with stories and facts that you might not discover on your own, making it a great option for those interested in the historical and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you decide against a tour, the ferry tickets to Delos can be purchased for around 20€ roundtrip per person at The Old Port, not to be confused with the New Mykonos Ferry Port. The entrance fee is then around 12€.

Once there, you’ll have enough time to explore the archaeological museum of Delos and marvel at the iconic landmarks.

☀️ IMPORTANT TIP: The best time to visit Delos is in the early morning to avoid the high-season crowds and to make the most of the cooler temperatures.

This day trip is definitely worth visiting for first-time visitors and those returning to Mykonos.

Afternoon/Evening

When returning to the main town make it your mission to hit any of those boutique shops you might have missed on day one.

I love Heel Athens Lab, they make sustainable clothes, and supporting them is supporting local!

For your final night in Mykonos, start with sunset cocktails at 180 Sunset Bar to enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean.

Then, dine at the iconic Kiki’s Tavern for an unforgettable meal. This no-electricity spot offers a rustic charm and delicious Greek cuisine, with fresh seafood and grilled meats, atop Agios Sostis beach.

Arrive early, as Kiki’s doesn’t take reservations, and savor the authentic Mykonos dining experience to cap off your trip.

Mykonos Travel Guide Information

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Guide to Transportation in Mykonos

Getting around Mykonos is pretty easy, depending on where you are staying.

The public bus makes stops at the key points of interest on the island. If you are staying for more than a couple of days, I recommend renting a car so that you can fully explore the island.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer Months: The island is most popular from June to August, offering the quintessential Mykonos experience with lively beaches and nightlife. However, I must warn you, this is also when the island sees the most tourists, so expect higher prices and crowded spots.
• Late September: I love a quieter visit, so late September was the ideal balance. The weather was warm and inviting, but the summer crowds had thinned, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the island’s beauty.

Essential Greek Words to Know

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• Hello: “Yassas” (Γειά σας) – A polite way to greet locals.
• Thank You: “Efharisto” (Ευχαριστώ) – Essential for showing appreciation.Yes/No: “Nai/Ohi” (Ναι/Όχι) – Basic but crucial for everyday interactions.
• Please: “Parakalo” (Παρακαλώ) – Use this to be polite when requesting something.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Itinerary

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• Early Morning: Plan to visit popular attractions like the windmills and Little Venice early in the day to enjoy them without the crowds and the heat.
• Public Transportation: Leverage the island’s network of buses and water taxis for convenience and to experience Mykonos like a local. It’s an efficient and cost-effective way to visit Greece’s most expensive island and explore distant beaches and hidden gems.
• Stay Hydrated: The Greek sun can be intense, especially during the summer. Always carry a bottle of water to avoid dehydration, and don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen.

Things to Avoid in Mykonos

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• Cruise Ship Docking Times: The arrival of cruise ships can significantly increase the number of visitors in Mykonos Town and popular tourist spots in a short period.
• Check Schedules: Websites like CruiseMapper and CruiseTT offer updated schedules of cruise ship arrivals. Planning your visits to major attractions around these times can help you avoid the largest crowds.
• Explore Alternatives: Consider visiting less-known beaches or inland attractions when the cruise ships docks. This can be an excellent opportunity to explore the island’s quieter, more authentic side.
• Book Experiences in Advance: If you’re planning any guided tours or special experiences, booking ahead can ensure you avoid times when the influx of cruise ship passengers might overwhelm certain locations.

Where to Stay in Mykonos

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Luxury Hotels ($$$$)

• Kensho Ornos
• Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort

Boutique Hotels ($$$)

• Boheme Mykonos
• Cavo Tagoo Mykonos
• Hotel Madalena

Budget-Friendly Options ($$)

• Studio Eleni
• MyCocoon Hostel

Where to Eat in Mykonos:

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Fine Dining

• Nobu Matsuhisa Mykonos – Located at the Belvedere Hotel, this world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant offers exquisite dishes crafted by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, set against a backdrop of stunning Mykonos Town views.
• Bill & Coo Gastronomy Project – Situated within the Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge, this restaurant is known for its innovative Greek cuisine, offering a modern twist on traditional flavors, all while overlooking the Aegean Sea.
• Scorpios Mykonos – A beachfront restaurant offering a unique blend of local and organic Mediterranean cuisine, Scorpios is not just about food but a complete experience with its bohemian decor, sunset views, and vibrant atmosphere.

Boutique Eateries

• Kiki’s Tavern – An unassuming, no-electricity tavern located above Agios Sostis beach, Kiki’s Tavern is famous for its grilled meats and fresh salads, offering a truly authentic and intimate Greek dining experience.
• Fokos Taverna – Situated on the secluded Fokos Beach, this taverna is a hidden gem where you can enjoy traditional Greek dishes and seafood in a peaceful, rustic setting away from the crowds.
• Captain’s Food For Sharing- I love this casual and delicious restaurant that sits right in Mykonos Town! You can enjoy views of the harbor while you sip on an Aperol Spritz.

Budget-Friendly Options

Souvlaki Story Mykonos – Located in Mykonos Town, Souvlaki Story is a go-to for delicious, affordable Greek street food, offering the best souvlaki and gyros on the island.

Jimmy’s Gyros – A popular spot among both locals and tourists, Jimmy’s serves up generous portions of gyros and souvlaki at budget-friendly prices, right in the heart of Mykonos Town.

To Ma’ereio – A traditional Greek diner offering hearty, home-cooked meals at reasonable prices. Located in Mykonos Town, it’s a great spot to enjoy local dishes like moussaka and pastitsio.

Safety Tips:

Mykonos is generally a safe destination for travelers, including solo female travelers.

I felt very safe walking alone, even at night, but you need to be extra careful if you are walking on the road.

The streets are not super well-lit, and the cars would come around the corners pretty fast!

General Safety Advice for Mykonos

• Protect Your Valuables: Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics openly. Use safes provided by accommodations for passports and extra cash.
• Stay Hydrated and Protected from the Sun: The Greek sun can be intense, leading to dehydration or sunburn. Always carry water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Be Cautious with Alcohol Consumption: Keep an eye on your drink and know your limits to avoid compromising situations.
• Know the Local Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services numbers (e.g., 112 for general emergencies in Greece) and the location of the nearest medical facility.
• Respect Local Customs and Regulations: Being aware of and respecting local customs, traditions, and regulations will not only keep you safe but also enhance your travel experience.

Wrapping Up Your 3 Days in Mykonos Itinerary

I hope you loved this 3-day guide to Mykonos! This beautiful island has lots to offer, from sunny beaches to exciting nightlife and interesting history.

Before you leave, make sure to enjoy every bit, like taking a walk in Mykonos Town, watching a sunset at Little Venice, or seeing the old ruins.

As your trip ends, think about the fun times you had and the new friends you might have made. Mykonos is a place you’ll probably want to come back to. It’s got a special way of making you miss it once you’re gone.

If you need some expert travel planning, have a look at our customized itineraries for assistance!

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