Interesting Facts About Mykonos Greece
Top 12 Things to Do in Mykonos Greece
The island of Mykonos in Greece is the perfect place to visit in the summer. This island is a part of the Cyclades group and is located in the Aegean Sea. It has become famous for its party atmosphere in the summer and has a number of iconic landmarks. Some of the most popular spots include Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, and the row of 16th century windmills. You can also visit the Folklore Museum and explore the Old Port.
1. Visit Windmills
Windmills are one of the most iconic landmarks of Greece. They are often found on the Greek islands. Most are cylindrical or circular. Some are made of wood, while others are stone. Many have small windows.
Windmills are built on hillside sites. The axis, which forces the stones into action, is located inside the heart of the building. There are also antennas made of heavy cotton fabric that rotate to follow the direction of the wind.
The earliest surviving Mykonos windmill is Geronymos Mill, which was constructed in 1700. It is now a museum. It was once used to grind flour. In the late 19th century, it was replaced with electricity. Since then, the mill has been renovated.
Another popular place to visit is the Lower Windmills. They are located near the Little Venice area. This area was once the home of wealthy sea captains.
Today, the windmills are converted into private homes and shops. These windmills are a symbol of the island’s rich past.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the island’s economy was centered around the production of grain. This flour was sold to other parts of Greece and other countries.
2. Day Trip to Delos
When you want to take a day trip in Mykonos, the island of Delos is an ideal destination. It’s an important archaeological site that offers an introduction to ancient Greece. There are several places to see on this tiny island, which is only about 10km long.
You can reach Delos by taking a ferry from Mykonos, Naxos, or Tinos. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, depending on the weather. Afterward, you can visit the site.
If you’re interested in visiting Delos, you should consider a guided tour. These are more comprehensive and provide more in-depth insight into the island. However, you can also visit the archaeological site on your own.
There are three main features of the archaeological site. One is the Ancient Theatre, which is a well-preserved 5,500-seat amphitheater. Another is the Archaeological Museum. This museum has a lot of interesting artifacts, including the original marble lions.
Another highlight is the mosaic floor of the House of Dionysos. This depicts dolphins, griffins, and lions.
The Archaeological Museum is the best of the bunch. It is the largest in Greece and focuses on the Greek sculpture of the Hellenistic period.
3. Party at Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach in Mykonos Greece is one of the island’s most famous party beaches. This beach is located on the southern part of the island. It is known for its turquoise sea and velvety sand. During the summer season, it becomes crowded.
There are two major beach clubs in the area. The Paradise Beach Club and the Super Paradise Beach Bar. Both offer a variety of amenities for guests.
The Paradise Beach club is the place to go if you are looking to dance until the wee hours of the morning. They also have a swimming pool and a restaurant. Guests can rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
Another beach club, the Super Paradise Beach bar, has a beautiful dock and picturesque waters. The food and drinks menu is good as well. Male go-go dancers are available. Bikinis are optional.
For the best nightlife experience, stay in Mykonos Town. The town is full of museums, shops, and restaurants. You will also find plenty of great party spots on the island’s many beaches.
For those looking to get away from the crowds, you can choose from Psarou and Elia beaches. Ornos is a more relaxed beach.
4. Armenistis Lighthouse
One of the best things to do in Mykonos is to see the beautiful Armenistis Lighthouse. Located in the northwest part of the island, this lighthouse is a must-see.
The Armenistis Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. It is also a great destination for sunset enthusiasts.
Another of the best things to do in Mykonos, the lighthouse has been in operation for at least two centuries. The structure is made of stone and includes a lantern. In addition, the lighthouse is quite a unique landmark.
Mykonos is also famous for its nightlife. During the summer months, the town is a hive of activity. There are numerous bars and clubs to choose from. You can also visit the famous Cavo Paradiso, a rooftop bar, for an incredible view of the city and the sea.
While on the island, you can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. This museum showcases artifacts from the nearby island of Delos.
Another of the best things to do on the island is to go hiking. There are several trails to explore.
5. See the Church of Panagia Paraportiani
The Church of Panagia Paraportiani in Mykonos is one of the most famous churches on the island. It is a whitewashed building that blends several architectural styles. This makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
Built in 1425, the church is located in the area of Kastro. It is the last of five churches that were built on the same grounds.
Several renovations took place between the 15th and 18th centuries. Part of the church was destroyed by a huge fire on Labor Day 1991. Despite the damage, the icon of the Virgin was restored. A new marble Holy Table was made from offerings of the faithful.
Unlike most Greek churches, the Panagia Paraportiani is not a chapel. In fact, it was not envisioned as a shrine. Rather, it was built as the foundation of a church, which was a complex of four smaller chapels.
Today, the Paraportiani church is a national monument. As such, it has been classified as one of the most important examples of Cycladic architecture.
6. Explore Little Venice
If you’re planning a trip to the Greek island of Mykonos, there are plenty of reasons to explore Little Venice. This is one of the more colorful and exciting neighborhoods in Greece. Aside from being fun, it’s also home to many restaurants and cafes.
One of the best reasons to visit Little Venice is to take in the magnificent view of the sunset. The houses have been designed so they can be positioned over the sea, and the azure blue water provides a wonderful backdrop. You can watch the sun set as you sip on a glass of wine or cocktail at a waterfront bar.
While you’re there, you should visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. It’s located inside the heart of Old Town and includes artifacts from the island’s history.
You should also check out the oh so famous Mykonos windmills. These are located just a short walk from Little Venice. Many of the older windmills are no longer functional, but they make for great photographs.
If you’re in the mood for a quiet evening, you might want to check out the Lola Bar. They offer a great selection of cocktails.
7. Eat the Local Cuisine
Mykonos is a popular holiday destination. The island is known for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Fortunately, the island is also home to many delicious culinary creations.
The gastronomy of Mykonos is characterized by the use of local products. These are used in hundreds of mouthwatering dishes.
Fish is a staple in Greece and is eaten regularly. Papa giahni is a classic Greek dish. Fish is prepared in a pot and served with a sauce. It is usually cooked in olive oil. You can find this dish in the majority of restaurants.
A popular Greek breakfast is leftovers from dinner. Some breakfasts include fresh tomatoes and olives. Fresh fruit is also available. For dessert, try the honey pie. Many pastry shops make this delicious treat.
Several local wineries produce organic wines. Mykonos produces a variety of wines, including Athiri and Mandilari. They are highly regarded and are available in several countries. Wine is best enjoyed while in the island.
Local sausage is made from pork. Sausage is usually seasoned with salt and pepper. This is a favorite delicacy of the people of Mykonos.
Louza is a traditional dish in Mykonos. The meat is thinly sliced, spiced and marinated. Traditionally, the sausage is served as an appetizer on special occasions.
8. Visit the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani
The Panagia Tourliani Monastery is one of the most important historic sites on the Greek island of Mykonos. This beautiful monument was originally built in the 16th century and restored in the 17th and 18th centuries. It is located in the village of Ano Mera, which is situated just outside Mykonos Town.
Panagia Tourliani is also known as “The Holy Tourlos”. In fact, the monastery was named after an icon of the Virgin Mary found in a nearby village. It is considered to be a sacred image. Since its foundation, the monastery has been a vital part of the life of the local community.
Located near the center of the Ano Mera town, the monastery is surrounded by imposing white walls and a marble fountain. Inside, the monastery has a gilded pulpit and a large altar screen. The altar is decorated with floral flowers and depicts the saints of the New Testament.
Besides being a religious site, the monastery also houses a museum. Visitors will be able to see a collection of vestments, holy icons, and wood carvings.
The monastery is open to the public daily. During the summer, the monastery can become very busy. If you’re not a fan of crowds, it might be better to go during the week.
9. Visit the Maritime Museum
Located in the center of Mykonos Town, the Aegean Maritime Museum showcases the rich maritime history of the region. Its goal is to preserve Greek maritime tradition. The museum is open for public visits from April to October.
Founded in 1983, the Aegean Maritime Museum focuses on the history of merchant ship activities in the Aegean Sea. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the museum, which is housed in a landmark nineteenth-century building. Throughout the museum, there are displays of marble findings from Delos and Rhenea, as well as navigational instruments, ancient coins, and model ships.
In addition to its maritime displays, the museum also houses a library. It has more than 5000 volumes of rare books and manuscripts. There are also a number of exhibits including a replica of a traditional Myconian sailing vessel, as well as models of pre-Minoan ships and warships.
One of the most impressive items on display is the statue of Hercules. He is the official mascot of Mykonos. Other nautical artifacts include carved sea chests and documents from local shipyards.
The Mykonos Museum of Maritime History is a popular tourist attraction in the town. This is where visitors can view the intricate models of historic and ancient ships. Among the exhibits is a collection of gravestones from sailors who died during shipwrecks.
10. Check out the Folklore Museum
The Folklore Museum in Mykonos Greece is a great place to learn more about the island’s culture. Located in the Kastro neighborhood, this museum displays traditional Mykonian art and textiles, as well as rare pieces of furniture. Besides this, the museum also houses a library, with manuscripts and photographs.
Another interesting museum in the area is the Aegean Maritime Museum. This museum showcases nautical artifacts from the pre-Minoan period, such as intricate model ships. It also has maps and shipping documents.
The Agricultural Museum in Mylos tou Boni is also worth a visit. This museum is free, and features a 19th-century Mykonian dwelling and a functional windmill. There are also agricultural tools from the pre-industrial era.
You can also visit the Panagia Tourliani monastery, a five-hundred-year-old monastery. The interior is adorned with impressive woodwork and a marble fountain.
One of the best things to do in Mykonos is to take a guided tour of the island. These tours are often offered by local companies. If you have time, you may want to include the Folklore Museum in your tour.
For the best views of the island, be sure to visit the Armenistis Lighthouse. Built as a safety beacon, this landmark offers breathtaking sunset views.
11. Scuba diving at Paradise Reef
Paradise Reef is one of the most popular dive sites in Mykonos. It is located right off the famous Paradise Beach and offers a wide variety of sea life. This dive site is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers.
Another popular dive location is the Anna II shipwreck. This ship is in great condition and is a part of an underwater world filled with colorful sponges and crabs.
There are plenty of other diving locations in Mykonos. These include the Peloponisos Wreck, which is in two pieces and has good visibility. Kalafakiona reef is an interesting dive with hundreds of small fish. And there is the beautiful Dragonisi island, which has a spectacular rock formation.
Snorkeling is also an excellent pre-training experience. The waters are clear, crystalline and full of interesting sea creatures. Here, you will have the opportunity to view loggerhead sea turtles, sea urchins and other marine life.
In addition to scuba diving, there are many other activities to enjoy in Mykonos. You can take a guided snorkeling tour, which is a great way to build your experience. Or you can opt to go for an introductory scuba course.
12. Visit the Old Port
Mykonos Old Port is located just behind Little Venice. The port is an excellent place to watch the Cycladic sunset. There are a variety of activities to do in the area.
In addition to sightseeing, you can take a sailing trip or visit nearby beaches. A number of cruise ships moor off the port. You can find mini-markets, coffee shops, and restaurants on the waterfront.
Visitors to Mykonos should also visit the Archaeological Museum. This museum has a collection of Roman and Hellenistic carvings. It is located in a Neo-Classical building. If you are interested in learning more about the island, you can also take a guided tour at the booth next to ferries in the Old Harbour.
Another great option is the Sea Bus. It runs daily between the Old and New Ports. The bus has a schedule posted on the wall. It has seats for luggage.
The old port is a bustling hub of activity. There are a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a traditional fish market. Most hotels are within walking distance of the port. However, taxis are difficult to locate during peak travel times.
Depending on how much time you have, you can arrange private transfers through your hotel or Welcome Pickups. Otherwise, you can catch a bus from the old port to Mykonos town.
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