Greece

Corfu Island

GREECE

On the northern side of the Ionian Sea, the charming island of Corfu carries a rich historical past, with influences from the Venetian, French, and English cultures that shaped the island’s unique architecture. Its picturesque town, mansions, palaces, and gorgeous beaches make Corfu a top destination in western Greece.

Corfu has an international airport that receives flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other European cities. It is connected also by ferry to a few islands, the mainland, and Italy.

Corfu is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands of the Ionian Sea. From lush green hills to noble mansions and from idyllic beaches to impressive museums, this island has everything it takes to please any type of traveler.

Strongly influenced by the Venetians, the French and the English, Corfu Town, the capital, is a brilliant base for exploration. Get lost in the narrow cobblestone alleys, the so-called “kandounia”, visit museums, such as the Museum of Asian Art, walk down the famous Liston promenade, stroll around the huge Spianada square… The whole Corfu town squeezes out a nostalgic charm!

You’ll see the glorious past of the island reflected in its imposing palaces, noble mansions, beautiful museums, and charming squares.

Moving away from Corfu Town, you’ll discover picturesque seaside villages, tiny verdant islets, luxurious resorts, and wild natural landscapes. It’s amazing how the different sides of this idyllic island coexist in harmony!

If you manage to peel yourself away from the enchanting Corfu Town, move to the coasts of Corfu, where beautiful beaches are nestled! Its sandy coves, surrounded by green forests and mountains, are some of the best beaches in Greece! Dassia, Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Kontokali and Kavos are all worthy of a visit!

As for sightseeing, numerous places of historical and cultural interest are always ready to welcome visitors! The top places to visit are Achillion Palace, the former retreat of Princess Sissi of Austria, Mon Repos Palace, where Phillip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II was born, the lovely Panagia Vlacherna and Pontikonisi (Mouse) Island. They will make you fall even deeper in love with Corfu!

The island is also famous for one thing in particular: its food! Based on meat, fish, pasta, and herbs, the island’s gastronomy will excite those who love good food. The excellent restaurants and traditional taverns are the best places to taste the local delicacies!

Feel like a classic film star in the Old Town

Unesco has declared Corfu’s Old Town a world heritage site. Who couldn’t be impressed by the stately buildings, with neoclassical influences, or fail to be moved by the likes of the Palace of St Michael and St George, Liston Arcade, Reading Society, the Catholic Cathedral, Maitland Rotunda, Ionian Parliament and the Kapodistrias family’s mansion? In the famous alleyways of Campiello, you will feel like a star in a period movie.

Admire the Venetian forts and towers

On the eastern side of town, the rocky shore crowned by two low peaks gave the name Koryfo (or peak) to the island. You enter the Old Fort (Palio Frourio), built in the 13th century, via a bridge over a seawater moat. It includes the Porta Sopranza, the British barracks, two winged lions of St Mark, the Madonna del Carmine, the Savorgnan Bastion, the Tower of Sea and the Tower of the Land (Castel del Mar, Castel della Terra) and the British-built church of St George resembling a Doric temple.

Corfu’s Old Town is often characterised as an open-air museum and each sight is a journey through time. Towering above the northwest border of the capital, the other guardian, the Neo Frourio (New Fort), is a masterpiece of military architecture built by the Venetians between 1572 and 1645. It is a fortress with planes and angles reminiscent of Picasso and Braque’s Cubist periods.

Get your camera ready for Cannon and Mouse islands

Two trademark views on Corfu are actually other islands – the diminutive Pontikonisi, which translates as Mouse Island, just large enough to hold the Pantokrator Monastery, and right next to it, the famous Vlacherna islet, with its 17th-century monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Mass is held here on Easter Monday.

Go for a swim with a difference at Canal d’Amour and Sidari

Corfu is known for its beaches but you can’t miss the Canal d’Amour, where a natural passage created by the smooth rocks forms a tunnel to swim down. Let us know if you find your soulmate at the end of it, as legend promises. Meanwhile, at Sidari you’ll enjoy spectacular sandy beaches with sandstone formations.

Discover more sandy beaches with amazing waters

Glyfada, Dasia, Ermones, Paleokastritsa, Sidari, Kavos (famous for loud parties), Kontokali, Benitses, Halikounas… The list of beaches is endless, from secluded picturesque coves to large, vibrant stretches of sand with beach bars, tavernas, shops and water sports.

Celebrate one of Greece’s most iconic Easter celebrations

Easter celebrations on Corfu are like no other. The island’s Philharmonic Society accompanies the procession of Christ’s epitaph on Good Friday and crowds follow the remains of the island’s patron, St Spyridon, the following morning. And then, on Holy Saturday, it rains botides – clay jars dropped into the streets from people’s balconies. Just make sure you keep looking up!

Feel like an aristocrat in Empress Elizabeth’s Achillion Palace

Corfu’s imperial past is one of the reasons it is considered one of the most glamorous destinations in Greece. Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary, the legendary Sissi, chose the island to build her palace, a place where she found consolation after her son Rudolph’s suicide. It is an elegant Pompeian-style building with luxurious, neoclassical living rooms. In the beautiful gardens, you’ll admire the famous statue of Achilles in his death throes.

Tour Mon Repos, the aristocrat’s choice

British High Commissioner Frederick Adam built this summer residence for his Corfiot wife, Nina Palatianou. Situated in a landscape of rare beauty, it occupies the site of ancient Corcyra, as the city was then called. The villa houses the Palaiopolis Museum and botanical gardens with more than 2,000 plant species that came from the British colonies.

Culinary miracles

Pastitsada (beef in a rich tomato sauce with pasta), sofrito (battered beef cooked in olive oil and wine) and bourdeto (fish stew) are among the regional delicacies you can enjoy in kitchens, traditional tavernas and restaurants of Corfu. They will enrich your holidays with the aromas and flavours of the Ionian.

The Diapontia islands

A favourite destination for sailors, the uninhabited Diapontia islands north of Corfu are ideal for all those who enjoy diving and fishing.

The Diapontia Islands

Crete Island

GREECE

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teeming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover!

Civilisation & Culture

Its strategic location on the map has turned the island of Crete into a crossroads where peoples and civilisations have left a permanent mark on, along with a rich cultural heritage. Across the ages, Minoans, Mycenaeans, Ottoman Turks, Arabs and Venetians have shaped the island’s identity.

Discover Crete’s eventful history that spans fifty-odd centuries: the Minoan palaces at Knossos, Phaestos, Malia and Zakros; the archaeological sites of ancient Gortyna, Eleftherna, Lyttos, Aptera, Falasarna, Spinalonga; the Venetian harbours at Chania, Heraklion and Rethymno towns; the ottoman monuments and architectural structures seen across the island; the historic monasteries of Arkadi, Preveli, Toplou, Agarathou, and Chrysoskalitissa; numerous thematic museums – the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is among the most significant in Europe.

The Minoan Palace of Knossos / Crete / Greece

Old Towns

The old towns of Chania and Rethymno share a fascinating combination of Venetian and Ottoman architectural elements. They are well-known, charming, and much-photographed with an ambience reminiscent of times gone by. Stroll along their narrow alleys and streets, stop by and have a coffee, snack or meal in the traditional cafes and tavernas; the magical patina of old times is everywhere.

Chania Creet
Chania Creet

Traditional Villages

They are mountain villages, mostly. Old customs and traditions are kept unchanged here and they unveil aspects of the true Cretan culture. Visit Archanes, Zaros and Asites in Heraklion region, Vamos and Chora Sfakion in Chania region, Anogeia, Axos and Margarites in Rethymno region, Makrygialos and Kritsa in Lasithi region. This is the ‘heart’ of traditional Crete.

Rethymno Creete
Rethymno Creete
Rethymno Creete
Vamos village Creet

SeasideResorts

Luxury resorts and lodgings of all types can be found along the seafront. Big towns such as Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, Siteia and Ierapetra are not the only destinations that can offer you a vacation to remember: visit also Agia Pelagia, Amnissos, Kaloi Limenes, Chani Kokkini, Malia and Ammoudara (Heraklion region); Platania, Agia Marina, Kolympari, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, Palaiochora and Kissamos in Chania region; Georgioupoli, Bali, Plakia, Agios Pavlos, Panormos in Rethymno region; Elounta, Plaka, Makrygialos, Koutsounari, Agia Fotia in Lasithi region.

Gastronomy

The essence of the Cretan cuisine can be described in the following words: “prefer the products of your land”. The way locals make use of their land’s rich produce is remarkable. The wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, legumes, wild edible greens and fragrant herbs are combined with tasty goat and sheep meat: the outcome is a number of particularly tasty dishes that don’t come up anywhere else in Greece. The local cheese list is also quite impressive; on the top you will find the popular Cretan graviera (a type of hard cheese) which is a PDO cheese.

Beaches

The island’s endless coastline features numerous beaches, most of which are sandy. Balos, Falasarna and Elafonisi are three beaches of great beauty in the region of Chania. Within a short distance from Heraklion you will find Amnissos, Agia Pelagia, Kaloi Limenes, Malia, Limenas Chersonisou, Ammoudara beaches. Don’t miss out on visiting Matala beach known since the sixties and seventies as a hotspot for hippies who travelled there from all over the world.

Elafonisi beach

In Rethymno you will find the longest sandy beaches (Episkopi, Petres) and a number of quite unusual beaches (Triopetra, Agios Pavlos, Ligres, Fragokastelo, Preveli). The area of Lasithi is well-known for its picturesque shores that are washed by the Libyan Sea, as well as for cosmopolitan Elounta beach.

Chania Balos Beach
Crete Lassithi VAI Beach

Nature’s Amazing Creations

The terrain’s morphological diversity is remarkable and it offers hard-to-ignore opportunities to daring explorers and nature lovers for extensive tours of the countryside. High mountains with rugged peaks, caves and ravines, fertile plateaus and valleys, rare cedar forests and water habitats are the pieces that make up the lovely and diverse Cretan land. Make a note of visiting Mt. Psiloritis (or Psiloritis) Natural Park and Siteia (or Sitia) Natural Park – both are UNESCO Global Geoparks, discover caves celebrated in ancient Greek mythology such as Idaion Antron, Diktaion Antron, Melidoni and Sfendoni, hike along Samaria gorge, enjoy a ramble in Vai palm forest, Lakes Kourna & Preveli, as well as on Lasithi and Nida plateaus.

Activities

Crete is an island that can offer many a thrill to action-loving travellers by the sea or on the mountain. Hike through its ravines, enjoy your off-road rides in the mainland, follow the trekking routes – the landscapes crossed by the E4 European trail are amazing; enjoy water sports activities such as sailing, diving, sea kayaking and windsurfing.

Paradise Islands

Visit Gavdos island, the southernmost tip of Europe; swim by heavenly its beaches such as Sarakiniko, Ai Giannis, Pyrgos, Potamos, Trypiti; discover cedar woods that reach the seashore and well-tended trails that lead to the few island villages. In the summertime the place is a popular camping spot. There is a boat connection with Palaiochora, Sougia and Chora Sfakion.

Sarakiniko Beach Milos Crete Greece
Ai Giannis Beach Parga

Chrissi or Pontikonisi island (8 miles south of Ierapetra) is a feast for the eyes, what with its turquoise waters, the off-white sands enriched with the hues of broken seashells, and the huge seaside cedars rooted in the sand dunes. Every day hundreds of visitors come to the island for a day trip aboard the tourist boats from Ierapetra. Chrissi island has been designated a Natura 2000 area and it is strictly forbidden to camp and spend the night there.

Chrissi Island Crete Greece

Koufonisi, Siteia (or Lefki island) is a place that few people know. There are caves shaped in the limestone rocks that contain vestiges of significant antiquities. The sandy beaches and natural serenity is what makes this islet a paradise – one that only locals are aware of; they usually take a trip there using their own boats.

Koufonissi Island Crete Greece
Koufonissi Island Crete Greece
Tiny Spinalonga Peninsula Creet

A Natural Way of Life

The Cretans are proud and affable people. They are, after all, the descendants of Cretan-born Zeus the god of hospitality and father of all ancient Greek gods. And they know how to offer hospitality to strangers in their parts. Their profound love for their homeland and their adherence to traditional ways and customs have shaped a special culture and a way of life that is absolutely worth discovering. And if you happen to be invited to a Cretan feast, you will feel what it’s like to have fun – the way locals do. You will savour tasty titbits and dishes, and you’ll be called to join in the folk dances; you will listen to mantinades (songs with words improvised and sung on the spot) and rizitika songs.

Have a great time – the Cretan way!

Santorini

GREECE

Santorini, known since ancient times as Thira, is one of the most famous islands in the world. The fact that you can sit in front of the caldera, enjoy local dishes, a drink or a coffee while gazing at the remarkable beauty of an active volcano is priceless!

The island is actually a group of islands consisting of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades.

Santorini’s volcano is one of the few active volcanoes on Greek and European land The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years approximately, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again.

Fira is the picturesque capital of the island perched on the top edge of the Caldera, 260m above sea level, offering breathtaking views to the Aegean Sea and the island of Nea Kameni. Along the border of the caldera you’ll come across the renowned villages of Oia – the whole village looks like a work of art as the houses are carved into the lava rock – Imerovigli and Firostefani, which are the best spots for you to get your sunset views.

Other famous yet smaller villages, some cosmopolitan, some more traditional, some with vast vineyards to explore, others on a cliff-top affording amazing views over the Aegean are Akrotiri and Messa Vouno – with their famous archaeological sites – Pyrgos, Karterades, Emporio, Ammoudi, Finikia, Perissa, Perivolos, Megalochori, Kamari, Mesaria and Monolithos. Soaking up the villages’ distinctive topography,whitewashed houses and alleys vs lava-black terrain, is a rewarding experience that one might say is unique!

Pyrgos Santorini

Santorini is considered to be the most sought after place for a romantic getaway in Greece, since there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while perched on the rim of a massive active volcano in the middle of the sea! The island has a growing reputation as a “wedding destination” for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world. A trip to Santorini with the other half is a dream for anyone who has seen at least one photo of the island’s famous Caldera and exchanging kisses beneath Santorini’s famous sunset is the ultimate romantic experience!

Venture into Santorini’s seaside treasures and enjoy deep blue waters and beaches with white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. Santorini, the youngest volcanic land in the Eastern Mediterranean, is waiting for you! Don’t think twice! Experience for yourself the once-in-a-lifetime romance and charm of truly.

There is a wealth of reasons why Santorini is the best Greek island and one of the top travel destinations in the world. If you have a quick dip into the island, it is enough to make you realize its uniqueness and become deeply fond of it. Besides the ideal climate of Greece with hot summers, a bright sun and the temperament of its people that captivates tourists in every part of Greece, Santorini has its distinctive characteristics that make it stand out and deservedly popular all over the world.

Santorini is a natural wonder of the world. Its world famous volcano, which constitutes a magnificent sight and attraction of Santorini, formed the island and gave it its current shape and geomorphology by a massive volcanic eruption, thousands of years ago. The rare natural beauty of Santorini, the breathtaking caldera, the views, the extraordinary volcanic beaches and the lunar landscapes are the wondrous results of this eruption that can only be admired in Santorini.

In this incredible “canvas” everything is totally harmonious. The architecture of Santorini ‒whitewashed edifices, blue domes, candy-colored houses and paved paths‒ blend in perfectly with the spectacular surroundings, creating jaw-dropping images that look like picture postcards. Santorini it the perfect place to unwind and have a dreamy holiday. Don’t forget that Oia village is known for the best sunset in the world!

Nevertheless, Santorini’s true essence is far below the surface and the real beauty lies in its people, pulse, culture and tastes. Any chance to come closer to locals and relish their warm hospitality will be totally rewarding. What can be equally satisfying is the various experiences and activities you can do on the island; sailing tours, volcano trips, a plethora of watersports, diving in impressive sea beds and hiking, or even horse riding, in unspoiled nature trails will help you broaden up and live unique moments. For those interested in fun and partying, the vivid nightlife of Fira, the capital of Santorini, will undoubtedly fulfill their needs and meet their expectations.

The archaeological wealth of Santorini depicts its rich history and culture. Besides the various interesting museums it owns, it has five stupendous castles that are worth exploring. Above all, everyone should visit the archaeological sites of Akrotiri and Ancient Thera, two remarkable places with great aura. What is also indelible in this island is its scrumptious dishes and luscious local products. The volcanic force created another miracle; a fertile volcanic land that produces delectable products with characteristic flavors. On the top of this list is, of course, the wine. Santorini is renowned for its tradition in wine making and boasts vast vineyards and fine wine varieties. Its boutique wineries are a must as they offer the ultimate ambrosial experience.

All in all, Santorini is such a sought-after place because it has something for everybody, an abundance of attractions and activities, a combination of serenity and entertainment and a tremendous natural beauty that makes it hard to take your eyes off of it. On top of that, it is a romantic haven like no other, for all the views, idyllic locations and sunsets that fill visitors with awe. Immerse yourself in its magic and get ready for an unforgettable vacation!

Mykonos Island

GREECE

Mykonos has been known as the island of the winds, and it’s located in the heart of the Cyclades group. Its fame has spread across the world, as a cosmopolitan and luxurious holiday destination.Bathed in the bright sunlight of the Aegean by day, she dresses in charm and mystery by night, beckoning its visitors to dance and have fun in the beach bars and clubs, go for a shopping spree in luxury stores, visit its art venues, and -in short- have a truly memorable stay!

Mykonos has been known as the island of the winds, and it’s located in the heart of the Cyclades group. Its fame has spread across the world, as a cosmopolitan and luxurious holiday destination.Bathed in the bright sunlight of the Aegean by day, she dresses in charm and mystery by night, beckoning its visitors to dance and have fun in the beach bars and clubs, go for a shopping spree in luxury stores, visit its art venues, and -in short- have a truly memorable stay!

There are, however, two faces to this island that not many people know of. The first one is the obviously intense, shiny and cosmopolitan aspect of it, and the other one is particularly picturesque, with stone-paved alleys, whitewashed houses, country chapels and windmills, that ooze calm and peace. What makes this island special is that it can cover a variety of demands: you can visit it for its archaeological sites;get to know the local traditions in its picture-perfect villages; and you can explore its amazing beaches, considered by many as the top ones in the Aegean Sea. Chora is quite an impressive and picturesque Cycladic town. You will find top hotels and resorts, designer clothes and goldsmiths boutiques, art galleries, and some of the most famous restaurants and bars in Greece. For a taste of culture and history, take a boat trip to nearby Delos Island; it’s a big and impressive archaeological site.

Chora

The island capital is a typical town of the Cyclades, one that will impress you with its sheer beauty and style. Walk along its narrow backstreets, see the little whitewashed houses with the blue-coloured window frames and the small wooden balconies, the pots of colourful fragrant flowers, the little churches & the museums, pass by the busy shops that line the streets and enjoy your shopping and dining – your options are many.

Visit Panagia Paraportiani Church, the Town Hall, and the Castle on the hill overlooking the harbour. Visit also the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Collection of Mykonos, and the Aegean Maritime Museum. The Archaeological Museum was established in 1905 and it houses finds from the nearby Rineia Island.

In the warm months of the year, the pedestrian streets of Mykonos – mostly Matogianni – are buzzing with life as there are designer clothes and jewellery boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants to cater for all needs any time of day & night. Go for a stroll in the picturesque harbour area and see the multi-coloured fishing boats moored next to each other.

Among the most popular and beautiful neighbourhoods of the town is Alefkandra or Little Venice. This quarter was built in the 18th century, and the stately homes of the local rich sea captains and traders of that time line the waterfront. The houses are impressive, with bright-coloured balconies and wooden galleries, and as they are washed by the sea they have earned this neighbourhood its second name, with a direct reference to the famous Italian city. Upon arriving at Little Venice you will see the island’s landmark -the imposing windmills, overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Ano Mera

This is Mykonos’ second traditional town, which extends inland around the historic monastery of Panagia Tourliani (a three-aisled 16th c. church with an icon screen that is a masterpiece ofwood-carving art). This beautiful picturesque little town, built in the local island style, is located near the centre of the island, along the road towards the northeastern beaches. You’ll find a wide range of traditional tavernas to choose from. North of Ano Mera, in the Ftelia location, you will see the ruins of a Neolithic Age village and a Mycenaean Period tomb dating to the 14th – 13th c. BC. Visit St. George’s Church, the Gyzi mediaeval castle (13th c.) and the Holy Trinity Church. In the castle which dominates the hill, you can seethe archaeological remains dating from the 12th c. BC to the 1st c. BC. Enjoy your coffee or your meal at the town square.

Agios Stefanos

It’s a seaside village with a beautiful beach. Visit Agios Stefanos chapel, the Armenistis lighthouse in the Fanari area, and Choulakia, a cove with an impressive pebble beach.

Ornos

This picturesque village has a sheltered little harbour and a lovely beach washed by crystal-clear waters.

Psarou

This is a seaside village, particularly popular with the rich and famous. Visit nearby Platys Gialos where you will see the ruins of ancient towers dating to the Hellenistic Period (late 4th – 1st c. BC). At a 1km distance, there are two beautiful sandy beaches, Agia Anna and Paraga.

Kalafatis

This village by the sea has a small wharf where fishing boats are moored. Its beach is a favourite spot for water sports fans. Visit the archaeological site at Divounia area, and the chapel in Agia Anna location by the sandy beach.

Make sure you also plan a trip to nearby Delos Island. This is a very small island with a huge religious significance for the ancient Greeks, as this was the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. It’s an awesome large archaeological site you should definitely include in your list of must-visit places!

Mykonos has been attracting an international crowd like a magnet since the 1960s and has been voted a top summer holiday destination time and again for good reason. Exceptional beaches, award-winning restaurants, legendary parties, expensive yachts, dreamy villas, luxury hotels and 5-star service… if it makes you feel like a celebrity, you’ll find it on Mykonos.

Awash in its iridescent Aegean light, which it shares with neighbouring Delos, you’ll fall hopelessly in love. So if you’ve got an appetite for luxury and adventure in equal measure on a cosmopolitan island in the Cyclades, read on. You’re in for a treat.

Prepare to feel like a star on an island legend

It’s hard to imagine a time when Mykonos was a humble little island, without electricity, just a layover on the way to famous Delos. Things changed in the 1950s, with the arrival of the likes of Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Jackie O, Marlon Brando, Grace Kelly, Princess Soraya, Elizabeth Taylor, Nureyev, Pierre Cardin, Stavros Niarchos… legendary names of the international jet set that became associated with Mykonos.

Mykonos quickly became the favoured holiday destination in Greece for the super-rich, artists and movie stars. And the list of celebrities continues to grow: Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Shakira, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, Monica Bellucci, Liam Neeson, Hugh Jackman, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Giorgio Armani, Russell Crowe…

Admire Hora, the artistic capital of Mykonos

Sparkling white with an Aegean blue backdrop, the architecture of Mykonos is one of a kind. It extends into the little neighbourhoods of the island’s main town, Hora, with captain’s homes, old churches and wells. Everywhere you look, there’s a maze of whitewashed alleyways. In Gialos, you’ll find the famed pelicans, as well as Agios Nikolaos tis Kadenas, the Town Hall of 1780, and the imposing Mavrou School. Through Barkias, you will reach the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, a complex of five churches, completed in the 17th century.

Stroll around Little Venice and the iconic windmills

One of the most-photographed spots on Mykonos, Little Venice is made up of homes that were built in the 18th century and have their foundations in the sea. It has been said that pirates would store their loot here. Today, they have been converted to bars and restaurants and the view of the sea from their balconies is dazzling. Mykonos’ other iconic attraction is its windmills, which stand facing the sea and at night are beautifully lit up. Powered by the north wind, these windmills used to grind the island’s grain into flour until the early 20th century.

Party 24hrs-a-day on an island that invented the good life

In Mykonos, anything is possible, especially when it comes to the island’s dining and nightlife spots. From Little Venice to Super Paradise, from Matogiannia to Psarou, Orno, Paradise… the party’s swinging all summer long. Day and night, spontaneous and organised, with guest DJs from all over the world. Holidays in Mykonos mean fun, fun, and more fun – champagne on the beach, cocktails on balconies, dancing and flirting until the sun comes up.

Treat yourself to the feeling of 5-star luxury

Mykonos is a luxury destination that has it all: elegant villas and suites with private pools that merge with the blue horizon, award-winning design, five-star service, gourmet gastronomy served to you on dreamy balconies, on a yacht or on a private pier. Hospitality here has reached a standard all of its own.

Explore the shops and whitewashed magic of Hora

Shopping in Hora is a high-fashion experience, during which you can find the latest collections from top design houses. Sitting in Matogianni St makes for some great people-watching. The colourful crowd comes and goes, streaming in and out of brightly lit stores, whether they’re just window-shopping or holding bags full of clothes. Could there be a more beautiful catwalk than the cobblestone streets of Mykonos’ Hora?

Sample the refined food & wine of Mykonos

Mykonos boasts some of the best restaurants in the Mediterranean. Award-winning chefs bring you a medley of local and international cuisines. Fresh, local ingredients, elegant and refined dishes inspired by the latest culinary trends, all paired with wines that would satisfy even the most selective palate. So if you’re a foodie, don’t hesitate to take an agrotourism tour on Mykonos. You won’t regret it.

Spend the day at breathtakingly beautiful beaches

Green, blue and turquoise water, pebbly sand… some of the best beaches in Greece are found here. Agios Sostis, Kalafatis, Lia, Ornos, Paraga, Super Paradise, Ftelia, Psarou. By boat, car or on foot, you can get to cosmopolitan beaches or secluded coves. You’ll find all sorts of water sports: tubes, water-skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing… The choices of how to spend your day are endless.

Feel the open-minded welcome the locals

In the 1970s, Jackie Onassis introduced Mykonos to her gay American friends. Being particularly open-minded, locals welcomed the gay community and soon it became known as the most gay-friendly destination in Greece.

The ancient heritage of Mykonos

The Gyzi Castle in the hills of Paleokastro, the Neolithic settlement at Ftelia, the Myconian grave in Angelika, the ancient wells and ruins … all witness to the island’s great history and worth a visit.

Paleokastro Monastery

Delos and other enticing nearby islands

The most unexpected excursion you’ll make when visiting Mykonos takes you to neighbouring Delos, where you can walk amongst the sanctuaries and statues of a vast Greco-Roman settlement dedicated to Apollo. And there are other small islands next to Mykonos that will enrich your holidays in Greece: Rinia, Tragonisi, Ktapodia. They are full of tiny bays with emerald water that are perfect for long, relaxing swims.

A magical sunset at Armenistis lighthouse

Dating back to 1891, this is one of the most interesting lighthouses in the Cyclades. It is worth making the trip on foot and seeing the old mechanism in the garden of the Aegean Maritime Museum in Hora. Spend an evening there and watch the sunset, one of the most beautiful in Mykonos and in all of Greece.