Are you looking for a one-day Mykonos cruise ship itinerary for your next Mediterranean cruise? Then I got you covered!
Mykonos was my favorite stop on my 7-day cruise through the Eastern Mediterranean Sea – and I will make sure you will love it just as much.
There is so much to see and do on this small island that it can be hard to choose from. Mykonos is relatively small, with only 10.000 inhabitants living on the island.
But with only one day to explore this amazing island, how do you make the most of your precious time?
I have been to Mykonos on a cruise and have absolutely loved my day there. To make sure you have an amazing experience as well, I have created this ultimate guide to help you have an unforgettable day in Mykonos.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- The Mykonos Cruise Port
- One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship – Your Options
- 1. The Best Tours and Day Trips in Mykonos
- 2. Exploring Chora
- 3. See the Windmills of Mykonos
- 3. Explore Little Venice
- 5. Visit Archaeological Sites
- 7. Relax on the Best Beaches of Mykonos
- Best Lunch Spots in Mykonos
- How to Get Around Mykonos
- Conclusion: One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship
- More 1 Day Cruise Itineraries
- FAQ: One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship
- About the Author
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.
The Mykonos Cruise Port
First, let’s start by locating the cruise port. The busiest port in Mykonos is in Tourlos, which welcomes large cruise ships from April through October. It is located near Agios Stefanos Beach.
From there, you can either take a public bus to Chora, the island’s main town or hire a taxi for a relatively short ride there. It is about 1.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) of driving time. It costs about EUR 10,00 to get to town.
Alternatively, you can also walk, but it takes about 30 minutes and there are no sidewalks.
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter or ATV and get ready to explore the island a little deeper.
One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship – Your Options
When coming to Mykonos on a cruise ship, you’ll have a couple of options when deciding what to do. The island is not too big, so you can easily discover most of it on the shore day.
Here are some of your options when coming to Mykonos:
- Book a guided day tour or shore excursion
- Visit the capital city of Chora and Little Venice
- Hike up to the windmills of Mykonos
- Check out the stunning beaches of Mykonos
- Discover archeological sites
1. The Best Tours and Day Trips in Mykonos
If you choose to book a guided day trip or a tour in Mykonos, you need to make sure it has a good cancellation policy. Cruise ships do not always dock punctually, and sometimes ports of call even get canceled due to bad weather on the way.
I usually book all my trips with Viator. They are usually amazing and affordable – and you can cancel them without paying a penalty. Perfect for cruisers.
Plus – they usually offer cruise ship pickup so you don’t need to organize a thing.
If you don’t want to find your own way around the island, this is your best option.
Here is my selections of the best tours in Mykonos:
- Private Tour: Mykonos Island in Half a Day
5/5 Stars (82 Reviews) - Semi-Private Brand-New Catamaran Cruise in Mykonos 4,5/5 Stars (131 Reviews)
- Mykonos Shore Excursion with Terminal Pickup 5/5 Stars (11 Reviews)
- Mykonos: Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos 4,5/5 Stars (322 Reviews)
- Authentic Jeep Adventure Tour 4,5/5 Stars (37 Reviews)
2. Exploring Chora
Another cool thing to do in Mykonos is explore the charming alleys of Chora, also known as Mykonos Town.
Chora is the picturesque capital city of the island. You can find it on its northwest coast. It’s known for its whitewashed homes and cobblestone streets.
Chora is home to about 600 – 800 little historic churches, you can spot them by the little cross on the rooftops.
My favorite feature of Chora is the bright pink bougainvillea plants that make the small alleys even more picturesque.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Chora, including shopping at the boutique stores along Matoyianni Street. You can also check out the famous galleries and museums. I loved the secondhand designer stores in Mykonos, they had amazing products at a great price point.
Chora has several museums worth visiting, such as the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos and the Aegean Maritime Museum. The best galleries to visit are the Lifeline Art Studio and Municipal Art Gallery
If you are interested in a big dose of culture, you might want to visit Virgin Tourliani/ Panagia Tourliani. It is a famous monastery that has a fabulous marble fountain and lots of interesting artifacts.
3. See the Windmills of Mykonos
The Kato Mili windmills are one of the most iconic landmarks of Mykonos and something that needs to be on your one-day-in-Mykonos itinerary. Not only are they super picturesque but you also have an amazing view from the windmills.
The windmills are conveniently located on a hill super close to Chora (Mykonos Town). From the windmills, you can see Little Venice and the Aegean Sea.
The iconic windmills were built by the Venetians in the 16th century. Back in the day, they were used to grind wheat and barley into flour, which the island people depended on.
Today, they are no longer operational. But they are among the most visited landmarks in Mykonos.
To see the Kato Mili windmills, you will need to climb a few stairs to reach them. I found the stairs not too intense, but you do need to wear good shoes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rent a scooter or ATV to reach the windmills. Keep in mind that there are only 30 taxis in Mykonos, so you might wait a while.
3. Explore Little Venice
Little Venice is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Mykonos and it is my favorite spot on the island. You can find Little Venice in the western part of Mykonos Town.
Here are some of my favorite things to do in Little Venice:
Little Venice is known for its charming houses and restaurant terraces that overlook the sea. Enjoy the stunning views while you relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area. Sipping a cocktail or a coffee by the ocean with my loved one is my number one favorite activity on any trip.
Visit the Panagia Paraportiani Church: This famous church is located in Little Venice and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Mykonos. It is a unique example of Cycladic architecture, with a whitewashed exterior and four chapels. Translated it is called “Our Lady of the Side Gate”.
Little Venice is home to many bars and clubs that offer live music and fabulous cocktails. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos. This of course is only a consideration if your cruise ship stays overnight in Mykonos.
5. Visit Archaeological Sites
Mykonos is not particularly known for its archaeological sites. But there are still a couple of interesting archaeological sites that you can visit on the island.
Here are my favorite historical sites to visit in Mykonos:
Delos is a small uninhabited island located just a few kilometers southwest of Mykonos. The site includes temples, sanctuaries, markets, and residential areas. Super interesting and only a short boat ride away.
Kastro Panigiraki is an old castle and fort with high stone walls. It is located right outside of Mykonos Town. It is mainly famous for housing the Anemos Windmill.
Ftelia Archaeological Site is located on the northern coast of Mykonos which was once a significant settlement in the Neolithic period. The Site is located on a beach and shows ruins of houses and other interesting structures.
I suggest including at least one of these sites in your one-day Mykonos itinerary – since it is a great chance to learn about the history and culture of the small island.
7. Relax on the Best Beaches of Mykonos
The best beaches in Mykonos are nothing short of amazing! Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a more fun atmosphere, Mykonos has it all!
Here are my favorite beaches to visit during your one day in Mykonos:
Paradise Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Mykonos. With soft golden sand and clear blue water, there’s plenty to do here. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing and more! It also has lots of beach bars and restaurants.
Elia Beach is located on the south side of the island and is perfect for relaxing in the sun. It is a lot quieter than the other beaches of Mykonos.
Agios Sostis Beach is another quiet and peaceful spot located in northern Mykonos. This glorious beach is backed by mountains and offers some stunning turquoise waters.
Super Paradise Beach is home to some of the best parties on Mykonos. It is quite fun in the day, but I feel like it is a bit crowded in the evenings.
Agios Ioannis Beach is a beautiful, quiet beach located on the southwestern coast of Mykonos. It offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the island of Delos.
Psarou Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is popular among celebrities and VIPs, so you have probably seen it on Instagram. Here are fancy restaurants and beach clubs.
Do you need travel insurance in Greece? Yes, travel insurance in Greece is highly recommended. Unsafe roads, water sports accidents, and food poisoning are only a few examples of when travel insurance could come in handy. EKTA offers worldwide travel insurance with 24/7 service and no hidden fees or restrictions.
Best Lunch Spots in Mykonos
There are so many great restaurants in Mykonos that serve delicious lunches and traditional cuisine. After a fun day exploring, what could be more refreshing than a big bowl of traditional tzatziki?
Here are some of my favorite restaurants:
Kiki’s Tavern: Located on the beach of Agios Sostis, Kiki’s Tavern is a famous seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish and grilled meats. It has a relaxed and casual atmosphere and stunning views. Fun fact: they do not offer Wifi or electricity so people can actually enjoy the view without being disturbed by phones.
Captain’s: Super cute and authentic restaurant. They offer the so-called mezze-eating: little tapas and finger food are served and shared with the entire table.
Spilia Seaside Restaurant: This restaurant is located on a small platform of rocks in Agia Anna, and it serves Mediterranean cuisine. The setting is unique and romantic, making it a popular spot for couples. It is also one of the most iconic Mykonos hotspots, so it can get quite full. Keep in mind that they only open at 2:00 pm so it might be a late lunch.
Avli Thou Thodori: a small restaurant located on Platis Gialos Beach offering a breathtaking view and a big variety of local dishes. They are especially famous for their seafood dishes.
Nikolas Taverna: Nikolas Taverna is a family-run restaurant that serves delicious homemade Greek food. The menu includes dishes such as moussaka, stuffed tomatoes, and grilled lamb.
Kastro’s Cafe in Mykonos is probably the most famous hot spot on the island. It is mainly known for being located in a small alley right by the water.
Kyklamino: A family-run business specializing in sweet delights. Make sure to stop by for a yummy dessert!
These are just a few of the many great lunch restaurants in Mykonos. My favorite place to have lunch is in Little Venice, it is simply so cute and picturesque.
How to Get Around Mykonos
There are several ways to get around Mykonos, depending on your preferences and budget. Of course, you also need to keep in mind that your cruise ship will dock outside the bigger cities.
Here are some of the best options on how to get around Mykonos:
- Walking: Mykonos Town is a pedestrian-friendly area. The small alleys are best explored on foot. Walking is a great way to discover the hidden corners of the town and to enjoy the charming architecture and atmosphere. However, I would not recommend walking from the cruise ship to town, since there are no sidewalks.
- Public Transportation: There are buses that run regularly between Mykonos Town and other parts of the island. The buses are reliable and affordable, and the routes cover most of the popular destinations on the island. Since your cruise ship will most likely only be in town for a few hours, I would not recommend this option either. Flexibility is key when you want to see a lot of the island in little time.
- Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Mykonos, and can be found at taxi stands in Mykonos Town and other popular locations. There are also taxis available at the cruise port. Taxis are a convenient and comfortable way to get around the island, but they can be more expensive than other options. Also, there are only 30 taxis on the entire island, so it might take a while to find one.
- Scooter/ATV rental: Renting a scooter or ATV is my favorite thing to do when exploring an island, There are many rental shops in Mykonos Town and they even offer rentals right at the cruise port usually. It is cheap and flexible and a fun adventure.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is another great option if you want to be more flexible but a bit safer than on a scooter. There are many car rental companies in Mykonos, and rental prices are reasonable. However, driving in Mykonos can be challenging due to the narrow and winding roads. If you choose to rent a car, I suggest you get a very small one, because parking can be a hassle.
Overall, there are many options for getting around Mykonos, and the choice depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. My favorite option is definitely renting an ATV, and I can wholeheartedly recommend that for Mykonos.
Conclusion: One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship
Mykonos is a magical little island in Greece that will captivate your heart with its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious food.
Even with just one day, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience by exploring its hidden gems and exploring the cute towns.
One day may not be enough to see the entire island, but this guide will surely help you make the most out of your one day in Mykonos on a cruise! See the famous windmills, the charming town of Little Venice and the impressive churches of Mykonos in just one day.
Headed to Santorini next with your cruise? Check out my one-day in Santorini Itinerary.
More 1 Day Cruise Itineraries
1 Day in Malta – From Valletta Cruise Port
1 Day in Gibraltar – From Malaga Cruise Port
1 Day in London – From Southampton Cruise Port
1 Day in Aruba from Cruise Port
1 Day in Curacao from Cruise Port
1 Day in Bonaire from Cruise Port
1 Day in Santorini from Cruise Port
1 Day in Mykonos from Cruise Port
1 Day in the Dominican Republic on the Cruise Ports
1 Day Blue Mountains Itinerary – From Sydney Cruise Port
Lanzarote Cruise Port: How To Spend A Perfect Day in Lanzarote
How to Spend One Day in Tenerife From Cruise Ship
Best of Casablanca & Rabat in One Day: From Cruise Port
Awesome One Day in Cannes Itinerary – From Cruise Ship
One Day in Marseille From Cruise Ship: Ultimate Itinerary
One Day in Corsica Itinerary: From Ajaccio Cruise Port
FAQ: One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship
Is one day enough in Mykonos
One day in Mykonos is definitely enough to get a taste of the island. Start by exploring the beautiful town of Mykonos with its iconic Greek architecture and breathtaking views. Take a stroll through Little Venice catch glimpses of the famous windmills and explore the 15th-century Greek Orthodox Paraportiani church. If you wish to explore the island more, I suggest staying for at least 5 days.
How much do you spend in Mykonos in one day?
It greatly depends on what your plans are. If you wish to do some sightseeing and eat a light lunch, you can expect to be spending no more than 50 USD. If you wish for more luxury it can be anywhere from USD 100 and upwards.
Is Mykonos town walkable?
Yes, Mykonos Town is walkable. The town is not very big and everything is close by. You can reach the famous windmills in only a couple of steps. From the cruise port to Mykonos town, you might want to catch a cab.
Is Mykonos or Santorini better?
I prefer Santorini over Mykonos. The island is a bit bigger and has more to offer. While Mykonos has some amazing spots, it is mainly attracting partygoers and jet setters. Santorini does have a lot more cultural and historical sites to offer.
When is the best time to go on a cruise to Mykonos?
The best months to go on a cruise to Mykonos are May, June, and September. I have been in April and it was a little bit too chilly to swim. In July and August, it can be too hot and too touristy, so I would not recommend going then.
About the Author
Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in New Mexico. She spends about half the year traveling to various destinations with her husband.
She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.
The post One Day in Mykonos From Cruise Ship: The Perfect Itinerary appeared first on Shades of Summr.