Where To Stay In Mykonos

Mykonos is one of Greece’s most visited islands, and it’s not difficult to see why. It is a party island where the young and carefree flock to the beaches and clubs, which stay open until sunrise. It is popular with celebrities from all over the world, so you don’t know who you might bump into. However, there is more to Mykonos than just beaches and clubs.

Throughout the island, you will come across beautiful Cycladic architecture. The houses are whitewashed, and the churches have blue domes offering many opportunities for photographs. In Mykonos Town, there are museums where you can learn about the island’s history. The narrow streets of the town are enchanting and with the centre of the town closed to traffic during the day, you can enjoy the cafes, bars and shops with ease.

When deciding where to stay on Mykonos, you need to think about what you want from your holiday. To learn more about the island and Greece, you would be best staying in Mykonos Town, where you can visit the museums and other historical sites, as well as take a cruise to the nearby island of Delos, where there is an impressive archaeological site.

If you want a beach holiday, there are plenty to choose from. Some are quiet, some have a party vibe, and others are family-friendly. Accommodation in any of these areas ranges from budget to luxury, so there will be something to suit everyone’s pockets. Here are six areas on the island to help you choose where to stay in Mykonos.

Where To Stay In Mykonos

1- Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town is the island’s capital and is a bustling and vibrant place to visit.

The Old Town’s streets are closed to traffic during the day, and the main roads are blocked at night, so be prepared to explore Mykonos Town on foot.

The highlight of Mykonos Town is Matoyianni Street which has many narrow side lanes for you to investigate.

Here you will find designer stores, handmade jewellers and souvenir shops.

One of the prettiest parts of Mykonos Town is Little Venice.

There are cafes and bars where you can people-watch while sipping ouzo or frappe.

At night, Little Venice comes alive with its vibrant nightlife.

For those interested in the island’s history, visit some museums in Mykonos Town.

These include the Archaeological Museum, the Aegean Maritime Museum, and the Folklore Museum.

Go to the iconic windmills of Mykonos, built in the 16th century, and the church, Panagia Paraportiani, which symbolises Cycladic architecture.

Pros Of Staying In Mykonos Town

• The town has plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
• There are many hotels in Mykonos Town, ranging from budget to luxury.
• You can shop until you drop, the highlight being Matoyianni Street.
• There is a good bus service to other parts of the island, including the famous beaches.
• Many tours of the island start from Mykonos town.

Cons Of Staying In Mykonos Town

• It can get very crowded, particularly during the summer months.
• The closest beach is Megali Ammos, a 10-minute walk from the bus terminal. Unfortunately, it can get windy there. If you want to go to another beach, you will have to take a bus or drive.

Places To Stay In Mykonos Town

Luxury – Mykonos Theorenia Boutique Hotel

This hotel is in a beautiful setting right next to the windmills.

It is very close to Little Venice, so you will have a good choice of cafes, bars, and tavernas to visit.

Here, trendy nightclubs stay open until the early hours, the partying often spilling onto the streets.

The rooms and suites are luxurious and come with air conditioning, a mini bar, a TV, a tea or coffee maker and a private bathroom. Some suites have spa baths.

You will be impressed with the welcome package you are given.

In it, you will find a bottle of sparkling wine, trail mix, bathrobes, slippers, pool towels, and body and hair care products.

If you don’t want to get the bus or drive to a beach, why not take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool? Relax in the spa or keep fit in the gym.

You don’t have to leave the hotel to have a delicious meal as the restaurant offers gastronomic delights. After your meal, sip a cocktail at the poolside bar.

Mid-scale – Marisso Hotel

Marisso Hotel is on a hill overlooking Mykonos Town, giving you spectacular views towards both the town and the Aegean Sea.

Lie on a sunbed by the pool and let the day pass you by. However, if you want a bit of life, Mykonos Town is just a short walk down the hill.

The rooms blend the traditional with the modern. They have tiled floors and a balcony with views towards either the sea or the garden.

They are all air-conditioned and have free Wi-fi, a TV and a fridge.

A nice touch is that massage treatments can be arranged in your room.

If you want to enjoy a day relaxing at the beach or dipping your toes in the clear waters of the Aegean, Megali Ammos Beach is only 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) away, so it’s well within walking distance. However, if you prefer to drive, the staff at the hotel will arrange car or bike hire for you.

Budget – Matina Hotel

Matina Hotel may be a budget hotel, but you get a warm family welcome when you arrive, and you will find yourself in a picturesque setting.

The hotel is right in the heart of Mykonos Town, Matoyianni Street, being just 30 metres (98 feet) away.

You are near cafes, tavernas, bars, and nightlife, all of which can be reached by foot.

Matina Hotel gives you peace and tranquillity in a busy town. It is built around a beautiful garden where you can enjoy a continental breakfast.

The rooms are impressive for the price and have the comforts you would expect from a more expensive hotel. All have a private bathroom, some with hot tubs and all with power showers. They also have air conditioning, a TV, and free Wi-Fi.

2- Paradise Beach

If you love to party, the Paradise Beach resort is the place to stay.

The beach is filled with young people, and loud music is played all day and into the night.

There are bars and tavernas spilling onto the beach and here, you will find some of the best beach clubs on the island.

The Cavo Paradiso Club is perched on a hill overlooking the beach. It boasts international DJs and is the place to be seen.

It has a pool modelled in the shape of Mykonos and houses 3000 people, so you shouldn’t have too much of a problem getting in.

Paradise Beach is on the south of the island, where most of the beaches are situated. This is because the winds are strong on the north coast.

There is a boat service along the south coast stopping at different beaches so you can have a change of scene.

Buses also go to Mykonos Town every half an hour from Paradise Beach and only take 15 minutes.

Pros Of Staying At Paradise Beach

• Paradise Beach is Mykonos’s party beach. People party on the beach starting in the afternoon before heading to the clubs.
• It is close to other beaches which can be reached by sea or land.

Cons Of Staying At Paradise Beach

• It gets crowded in the summer so it can be difficult to get a sunbed.
• It is very noisy, so it isn’t a family beach.

Places To Stay At Paradise Beach

Luxury – Tropicana Hotel, Suites and Villas

This hotel is very much what Paradise Beach is about, as it is for adults only.

Come with your partner or a group of friends and enjoy the infinity pools in comfort with a drink from one of the pool bars.

The view towards the Aegean Sea is spectacular.

In the Cornus restaurant, you can enjoy a Mediterranean buffet breakfast and a la carte dining all day and into the evening.

The hotel also has a beach restaurant serving Greek and Italian food, so you can go straight from your meal to Paradise Beach.

You can choose different types of accommodation according to your needs.

Perhaps you enjoy having a meal away from the crowds. If so, book a self-catering apartment with a kitchenette.

If you prefer to be pampered, there are deluxe rooms with outdoor hot tubs and suites with private pools. All rooms have a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a TV.

If you need a break from the sun, the hotel has a spa that offers massage treatments, a steam bath, a sauna, and a hot tub.

If you want to burn off those calories from a delicious meal at the restaurant, visit the well-equipped gym.

Mid-Scale – Paradise View Hotel

Paradise View Hotel is a good choice if you want to be near Paradise Beach so you can walk there anytime.

It is just 275 metres (902 feet) away from the beach.

Enjoy your complimentary buffet breakfast, head out for a swim, and sunbathe before the partying begins.

If you prefer to have a little peace during the day before hitting the clubs, relax by the outdoor swimming pool at the hotel.

The rooms are excellent value for money. All have a private bathroom, air conditioning, TV, complimentary toiletries, a safe, and a hairdryer.

There is also a minibar to relax with a drink while taking in the spectacular views.

Budget – Lino Apartments

The highlight of staying at Lino Apartments is the host, Miltos, who is very personable and will tell you everything you would ever want to know about the island.

He will even pick you up from the airport free of charge.

The apartments are in a quiet area but you can still walk to Paradise Beach. Agia Anna Beach and Psarou Beach are close by if you want a break from partying.

Your apartment is stylish and well-equipped for a budget hotel.

There is a kitchenette to self-cater and a private bathroom.

All the rooms have a private balcony where you can enjoy a drink before heading out for the evening.

There is air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a TV.

3- Platys Gialos Beach

If you don’t want the party scene, Platys Gialos is the resort for you.

It suits both families and couples who want a relaxing holiday.

It has the longest beach on the island, with golden sand and calm emerald seas.

You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, boating, and fishing here. Learn how to water ski or have fun jet skiing.

The resort offers cafes, bars, and tavernas which often have live Greek music.

Most have fantastic sea views, so you can enjoy your meal with the waves lapping on the shore.

The Nissaki Hotel’s Bar Restaurant is the place to go for freshly caught fish dishes, while the Eclipse Seaside Restaurant has the best pizza on the island.

An advantage of this beach is that there is a free section but get there early to secure your place.

Otherwise, you will pay between 20 and 30 euros for two sunbeds and umbrellas daily.

If you fancy a livelier atmosphere for a day or two, get the boat service to Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach.

Pros Of Staying At Platys Gialos Beach

• Platys Gialos has a long, sandy beach suitable for families and couples.
• There are many water sports on offer.
• There’s an excellent choice of tavernas and bars.

Cons Of Staying At Platys Gialos Beach

• There aren’t any banks or ATMs at Platys Gialos, so you will have to go to Mykonos Town to get cash. However, many places do accept cards, though not all, so you need to be prepared.

Places To Stay In Platys Gialos

Luxury – Palladium Hotel

This is a 5 Star hotel just a 5-minute walk from Platys Gialos beach and Psarou Beach.

If you prefer to stay in the hotel, there are many facilities to keep you occupied.

The Palladium Hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, a fitness centre, and a fashion boutique.

You’re greeted with a welcome drink and will be given a complimentary American breakfast each day.

Enjoy gastronomic cuisine at the La Veranda restaurant and a signature cocktail at the pool bar.

All rooms and suites are air-conditioned and have a TV, a private balcony, a seating area, a coffee machine, a hair dryer, and ironing facilities.

You will be impressed that the toiletries are from the brand, Korres. Some suites have a private pool or hot tub, and you can be served a decadent floating breakfast.

Mid-Scale – Acrogiali Beach Hotel Mykonos

This mid-scale hotel is well worth the money.

It is only a few steps from Platys Gialos Beach and you can get a boat to other beaches.

The bus stop is just outside the hotel, with buses to Mykonos Town every 30 minutes.

You get free sunbeds at the beach as part of your package, which is a big saving.

There isn’t a pool, but you have free access to a neighbouring hotel if you prefer a pool to the sea.

All the rooms have a lovely view, either of the sea or the garden.

They are air-conditioned and have a bathroom with a rainfall shower, hairdryer, TV, Wi-Fi, and fridge.

You even get a free shuttle service to and from the airport. A breakfast buffet is included, and there are two bars if you don’t fancy going out.

Budget – Artemoula Studios

This hotel is excellent value for money and is only 300 metres (984 feet) from Platys Gialos Beach.

You get a free shuttle to and from the airport and there is free parking for those who want to hire a car.

The rooms all come with a kitchenette and dining area, but a breakfast buffet is included in the room’s price.

They all have balconies with views of the sea or one of the two pools at the hotel. Rooms are air-conditioned and come with free Wi-Fi.

A poolside bar offers snacks and drinks if you want to stay in the hotel during the day.

4- Elia Beach

Elia beach is a big sandy beach that is gay-friendly and, because it is fairly quiet, is popular with nudists. However, the beach, with its calm waters, attracts families as well.

The resort has plenty of sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports facilities.

Here, you can windsurf, parasail, and water ski.

There are also plenty of tavernas and bars to choose from surrounding the beach.

It doesn’t, however, have the party vibe like Paradise Beach, so if you are looking for a calm atmosphere, this is the place for you.

The boat service stops here; it is the last stop on the route, so you can visit other beaches if you want a change. Buses depart every two hours to Mykonos Town.

Pros Of Staying At Elia Beach

• There is a calm atmosphere making the beach suitable for everyone.
• The beach is organised, making your stay smooth.

Cons Of Staying At Elia Beach

• It is the furthest resort from the airport.
• Nightlife is subdued compared to Paradise Beach.

Places To Stay At Elia Beach

Luxury – Myconian Panoptis Escape

This hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and it lives up to its image.

The rooms have a hot tub for relaxing with a drink from room service. There is air conditioning, satellite TV, a fridge and a kettle.

What makes this hotel stand out is its own small private beach.

You don’t have to bother going down to Elia Beach with the crowds if you don’t want to.

There is also an infinity pool if you prefer to swim in a pool rather than the sea. You can enjoy a cocktail here from the poolside bar.

An American breakfast is included in your stay, and there are plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Mid-Scale – Marigold Mykonos Micro-Boutique Suites

This hotel is special because Maria and Dionysus are perfect hosts and will answer anything you want to know.

The hotel is well-maintained, spotlessly clean and the setting of the hotel is spectacular.

It overlooks an impressive hilltop, and the rooms have views towards the Aegean Sea.

It is only one kilometre (0.6 miles) from Elia Beach, so you don’t have to walk far. Alternatively, you can hire a car or motorbike.

Some suites have a private pool and a terrace where you can enjoy a sundowner.

There is a fridge to keep your drinks cool, a TV, and air conditioning.

Budget – Niriides Luxury Homes

Niriides Luxury Homes is a budget hotel with a luxurious feel.

The studios and villas all have a view towards the Aegean Sea and are beautifully furnished in soft colours.

Each has a balcony from which you can watch the sunset.

They have a kitchenette, a TV, air conditioning, and a private bathroom.

The hotel is less than a kilometre (0.6 miles) from Elia Beach, but if you prefer to stay at the hotel, there is a pool with sun loungers.

5- Ano Mera

Ano Mera is a good choice if you want to explore a different side of Mykonos and experience life as lived by traditional Greeks.

It is a quiet village in the island’s centre, built around a public square.

The streets are narrow and cobbled, with a great choice of tavernas and bakeries serving traditional cakes such as baklava.

In Ano Mera, you can visit a traditional farm and even get involved with the chores.

Walking trails take you into the rocky landscape or south to the beaches.

Visit the 16th-century monastery of Panagia Tourliani, which houses holy icons and paintings. It has an amazing bell tower and marble fountain, both worth photographing.

Pros Of Staying In Ano Mera

• It is a chance to experience life as lived by many Greeks.

Cons of Staying In Ano Mera

• Unless you enjoy walking, you will need a car to explore the area.

Places To Stay In Ano Mera

Luxury – Koukoumi Vegan Boutique Hotel

This hotel stands out as it is vegan, which is quite unusual for Greece.

It has a restaurant that serves innovative vegan dishes.

If you are vegan, you won’t have to worry that your food has been cooked alongside meat or even in the same oil.

The rooms are luxurious and have a private bathroom, air conditioning, satellite TV, a kettle and a hairdryer. There is room service.

If you have a day when you don’t want to go exploring, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre.

Mid-Scale – Sofos Suites Mykonos

This hotel is in the centre of the village, so there are cafes and tavernas on your doorstep.

The nearest beach is Kato Livadi which is 1.9 km (1.18 miles) away, so you can alternate your holiday between sightseeing and sunbathing.

The hotel has a garden where you can relax with a cool drink and the rooms are well-equipped for the price.

They all have air conditioning, a private bathroom, a TV, free Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, a fridge, a mini-bar and a safety deposit box.

The lovely thing about this hotel is that the staff are great and very helpful.

Budget – Mykonos Double Luxury Mini-Suites

Here you get luxury at a budget price.

The suites are modern and stylish and have a 25m2 covered terrace where you can relax with a cool drink.

All rooms have a 42-in TV, free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom.

You are only 450 metres (1476 feet) from the centre of Ano Mera and its traditional tavernas.

Beaches are within 1.9 km (1.18 miles) away and there is a bus stop very close by so you can catch a bus to one of the beaches or Mykonos Town.

6– Ornos

Ornos, 2.5 km (1.55 miles) from Mykonos Town, is a village situated on an isthmus between two beaches.

Korfos Beach is to the north and has strong winds making it popular for kitesurfing rather than swimming.

Ornos Beach is to the south and sheltered, with calm waters, making it popular with families and couples.

Ornos village is full of cafes, tavernas and places to stay.

If you fancy visiting another beach along the south coast, there is a boat service.

You can also take a boat from here to the nearby island of Delos, famous for its archaeological site.

Pros Of Staying At Ornos

• Ornos Beach is sheltered so the waters are calm enough for swimming.
• There are plenty of tavernas and hotels in Ornos village.

Cons Of Staying At Ornos

• It can get very crowded during the summer months.

Places To Stay At In Ornos

Luxury – Mykonos Blanc – Preferred Hotels & Resorts

This is a 5-star hotel and oozes luxury.

It is on the beach so that you can go straight from breakfast to a sun lounger.

If you prefer a pool, you can relax by the hotel’s pool which overlooks the tranquil and peaceful waters of Ornos Bay.

There are 42 boutique-styled rooms and suites, all of which have a hot tub.

There are three restaurants to choose from, so you don’t have to leave the hotel for a gourmet meal.

Enjoy the taste of Greece at Kuzina Mykonos, the flavours of the Far East at Pasaji’s Asian Fusion Cuisine or experience Italy at the Trattoria Farina. Breakfast is included in the price.

Mid-Scale – Erato Hotel Mykonos

The Erato Hotel Mykonos is just 50 metres (164 feet) from Ornos Beach, so it is in an ideal location.

It is a beautiful hotel built in the Cycladic style and the rooms are decorated in white and earthy tones. All have a private bathroom, air conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi, a safe, and a fridge.

A breakfast buffet is included and is served in the dining area where the sun streams in.

There is an indoor bar but you can also have drinks on the sun terrace overlooking Ornos Beach.

The staff are very helpful and can arrange car or bike rentals and excursions.

The bus stop is right outside the hotel if you do not want to rent a car. From here, you can go to other beaches or Mykonos Town.

If you want to base your stay around Ornos, it’s only a three-minute walk to tavernas, bars, and shops. Ornos is famous for its freshly caught fish.

Budget – Anemos Apartments

Anemos Apartments is another hotel that is close to Ornos Beach. It’s only 92 metres (302 feet) away, so is very convenient for beach lovers.

The apartments are attractive and are built and decorated in the Cycladic style. They all have a kitchen to eat in if you don’t fancy walking to the village. All have air conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, and balconies or terraces.

Anemos Apartments has a pool with a pool bar and a furnished terrace. Here you can enjoy your included breakfast.