Source : the age
This Greek island may be most famous for nightlife and beaches, but you’ll find plenty of other pleasant distractions on a one-day cruise visit.
Who goes there Mykonos had its jet-setting, party-reputation heyday in the 1960s and 1970s but still retains considerable allure, so be prepared to share this cosmopolitan and pretty piece of Greek paradise with plane- and ferry-loads of people, and perhaps another cruise ship. In 2024, the Greek government slapped a €20 ($34) tax on cruise passengers and is still muttering about restrictions on ship visits. That may put off some big budget ships but, for the moment, a wide variety of cruise lines calls in on Greek island or eastern Mediterranean cruises.
Sail on in Mykonos isn’t the most scenically striking Aegean island by a long way, but given the fierce competition you’ll still be rewarded with a delightful sail-in with several other islands (Tinos, Rineia and Delos) in the background. You’ll see windmills, whitewashed towns and brown hills. The peacock colours of the water are dazzling.
Berth rites Mykonos Cruise Ship Terminal is at Tourlos four kilometres north of Mykonos old town. It’s a hot, uneven 45-minute walk along a busy road into town, so best take a shuttle if your cruise line offers one, or hop on the Mykonos Seabus. You may be in luck if you arrive on a smaller ship, as they sometimes anchor off the old town and tender passengers straight into its harbour.
Going ashore Mykonos town (or Chora) is a pretty Greek-island cliche of whitewashed cubic buildings, cobbled alleys, blue-domed churches and lipstick-bright bougainvillea. Despite having to elbow through crowds, duck under lace souvenirs and dodge restaurant spruikers, it’s hard not to be seduced. Wander aimlessly, but be sure to take in the windmills, Little Venice where wooden houses hang over the waterfront, and the Orthodox cathedral. Of several small museums the Aegean Maritime Museum is perhaps best, though it will hardly knock your socks off.
Don’t miss Although for most the island is all about beaches and Mykonos town, a quick trip inland showcases rural scenery and the village of Ano Mera, where you can visit the 16th-century Monastery of the Panagia Tourliani. On the hill opposite stands the ruins of a Byzantine castle, from which the views are delightful.
Get active Mykonos is famous for its beaches, with the best and most sheltered on the southern coastline, but Australians don’t need to traverse half the planet for these overcrowded stretches of sand, some of which turn into party venues at night. The nearest beach if you just want a swim is Platis Yialos. Exposed north-coast beaches are the place for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Mykonos is also a good place for scuba diving.
Retail therapy Shops are open day and night in Mykonos and range from cheap souvenir outlets to upmarket fashion boutiques. The best buys are handmade sandals and jewellery, both often taking inspiration from ancient Greek designs. Traditional ceramics are blue and white. The island is also associated with mosaic work, with some cruise lines offering mosaic workshop excursions where you can fashion your own piece.
Further afield If you’re interested in ancient Greek history and culture, the tiny island of Delos, three kilometres off Mykonos town, was considered the birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis. The rocky island is dotted with the marble ruins of Greek temples and the famous Terrace of the Lions, named for its statues. A guided tour is best for an interpretation of the ruins. The head is fierce and shade non-existent, so slip, slop and slap – and sip on water, too.
Brian Johnston seemed destined to become a travel writer: he is an Irishman born in Nigeria and raised in Switzerland, who has lived in Britain and China and now calls Australia home.
