Cruises to Mykonos

1,101 Reviews
Mykonos (Photo:Pawel Kazmierczak/Shutterstock)

About Cruising to Mykonos

In the early 1960s, shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis "discovered" the Greek island of Mykonos and brought Jackie Kennedy there -- and soon, the island became an exclusive playground for celebrities like Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot and members of the Versace family.

Today, it's more democratic, a noisy, bustling, bursting-at-the-seams place with something for everyone, from singles to gay couples to families. You'll find quiet stretches of sand, party beaches, waterfront cafes, shopping in every price range (both international brands and local crafts), water sports and delicious food (especially fresh fish). Scores of people, looking to experience the internationally renowned gold-tinged beaches and sweaty, pulsating nightlife, descend upon the tiny island during the packed high season, which lasts from the Greek Orthodox Easter celebration (usually in April or early May) through September.

After the cruise season, Mykonos gets quieter, but it does not shut down. Restaurants in the principal tourist areas -- the beaches and waterfront -- are generally open from March until November. Spots where locals eat or where business is good year-round remain open.

The largest town on the island is Mykonos town, also known as Chora or Hora; a few miles inland is the village of Ano Mera. The subject of many paintings by local artists, Mykonos is a feast for the eyes, with its azure waters, houses painted white with brightly colored shutters, bougainvillea trees in bloom, iconic windmills and colorful fishing boats. Visitors love to explore the shops, restaurants, cafes and churches on the narrow streets off the harbor.

  • More about Mykonos

  • Why Cruise to Mykonos?

  • Mykonos Cruise Port Facilities?

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More about Mykonos

Why Cruise to Mykonos?

Pros:

Mykonos offers a taste of Mediterranean life, with its beautiful beaches, bustling nightlife and excellent seafood

Cons:

Speedy ATVs and scooters can make for dicey situations on the roads for both pedestrians and drivers

Bottom Line:

In addition to plenty of restaurants and shops, this port is full of fun sights that are easily reached on foot

Mykonos Cruise Port Facilities?

There's not much to see at the Tourlos port, so you're better off taking the shuttle to town. If you're in the old port, there is plenty to do. Linger at one of the waterfront cafes over a frappe coffee, the popular Greek version of iced coffee that comes topped with foam. Maybe "Petros Pelican," the island mascot will show up, and you'll have a great photo op.

Everything in town is walkable. Choose any of the winding streets (local legend says they were so designed to repel pirates) off the harbor and you'll find shops, restaurants and cafes everywhere. You can easily and comfortably spend hours shopping, snacking or dining (and checking email, as free Wi-Fi is available at many cafes and restaurants).

Good to Know?

ATVs and all kinds of two- and three-wheel vehicles speed around corners and up and down the narrow streets. This seems to be a chronic and serious problem, not only because ATVs are a popular way of getting around, but also because many deliveries to shops and restaurants are made by mini-trucks that travel the same streets used by pedestrians.

Getting Around?

On Foot: most of Hora's attractions are within easy walking distance -- no more than 10 or 15 minutes -- from the old port (harbor). From Tourlos, walking to town (about a half-hour) is possible but not recommended because there are no sidewalks, the terrain is not even and the road is quite busy in season.

By Taxi: If you want to venture beyond the town, there is a taxi stand at Manto Mavrogenous Square (sometimes called Town Square or Taxi Square). It's marked with a bust of Manto Mavrogenous, the heroine of the 1821 War of Independence. Rates are fixed according to destination and vary by season. Phoning for a cab (22890/23700 or 22894/22400) is extra, also according to season (about 1.5 euros), and an appointment costs at least 5 euros. There are a limited number of taxis on the island so they may be difficult to get in high season.

By Bus: There are two bus stations. The main Fabrica (also spelled Fabrika) in the southern section of town serves Ornos, Aghios, Ioannis, Platys Gialos, Psarou, Paranga and Paradise. The other, Fabrica, in the northern part of town, serves Ano Mera village and the beaches of Elia and Kalafatis. Normal fares are less than 2 euros.

By Boat: Small boats (caiques) are one way to visit the beaches at the southern and western part of the island. Check the travel agencies at the old port for schedules, departure points and fares.

Currency & Best Way to Get Money?

The euro is the official currency. For updated currency-conversion figures, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com. ATMs are scattered throughout town and can be the cheapest and easiest way to get money. Most shops and restaurants accept major credit cards. However, as one local said, "Cash is king." That means you may do better offering cash to strike a bargain.

There are several bank offices in Hora, open 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays and until 2 p.m. Fridays. A passport is needed when changing money.

Language?

Greek is the official language, although English is widely spoken, as are some European languages. Locals will appreciate a "YAH soo" (hello), "ef-hah-rees-TOH" (thank you) -- and any other phrases you can pick up prior to your cruise.

Where You're Docked?

Cruise ships dock at the new port in Tourlos; however, when no space is available, they anchor in the harbor and tender passengers to the old port in Hora (known simply as the old port or the harbor).

If you dock at Tourlos, you won't see anything beyond an ATM and a small canteen where you can buy water or soft drinks. Your cruise line will provide a shuttle to the edge of town. Other alternatives: the public bus (1.6 euros) or a water taxi (2 euros).

If you're tendered to Hora, home to most of the ferries, you'll find a world of cafes, restaurants and shopping at your feet. (And you're within easy walking distance of the center of town and various highlights.) You'll also find tour operators there.


Mykonos Cruise Reviews
Gorgeous island, and our tour guide, Andrea, was exceptional. Mykonos is part of the Cyclades, which are volcanic islands with rocky terrain. The views of the Aegean are absolutely spectacular. Mykonos is and was a pRead More
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DCGuy64
Mykonos was lovely and getting off the ship was a breeze. THE WATER TAXY TO THE OLD PORT WAS ON TIME AND GOY US THERE AND BACK IN ABOUT TEN MINUTES Read More
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Kenny Sanders
There was a water bus run by the port to take us into the town for only 2 euro each way, and that was enjoyable in itself. The town was really busy, but we managed to escape the crowds by exploring streets further awRead More
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roselilyoz
Mykonos is a beautiful Greek island that is postcard picturesque and easy to navigate by yourself. We did Mykonos on our own because we’ve been there before and knew the landscape. I enjoy Mykonos and would gladly reRead More
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cmaygar

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