Stylish, scenic and sun-drenched - that’s Mykonos in a nutshell. Sound good? We thought so. Deciding Mykonos is the island for you is only the first step, however. Greece’s capital of chic is awash with options when it comes to charming villages and buzzing party spots, and knowing where to base yourself can be a challenge. Luckily for you though, that’s where we come in - at Plum Guide, we’re here to take on the heavy lifting, and guide you in answering that most pressing of questions - where on earth do you stay? Whether you’re looking for a secluded retreat or to be in the thick of the nightlife scene, you’ll find the perfect spot on the “Island of the Winds”. So, without further ado, check out our advice on where to stay in Mykonos.
Mykonos Town (Chora)
A white church with a red domed roof in a square in Mykonos Town, Greece
To avoid a serious case of FOMO and truly immerse yourself in the island’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, look no further than the winding lanes of Mykonos Town (or Chora). Perhaps you’ll opt for the historic Little Venice district at the southwestern end of the harbour, where you’ll find colourful 18th-century houses at the water’s edge (many of which have been transformed into restaurants, bars, and shops). Or maybe the charming whitewashed architecture of the vibrant old port area will draw you in. Either way, you’ll be within strolling distance of those iconic windmills for which Mykonos is famous, as well as the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, the Aegean Maritime Museum, and the Mykonos Folklore Museum - all of which make Chora a no-brainer for culture lovers when it comes to where to stay in Mykonos.
Crisp Silk, Plum Guide home in Mykonos, Greece
Megali Ammos
A bird's eye view of people on the sand by the blue sea at a beach in Megali Ammos, Mykonos, Greece
Just a short walk from Little Venice yet seemingly a world away, Megali Ammos is the perfect base for anyone wanting to soak up the action in Mykonos Town, but return home to some peace and quiet. The quaint bay has a truly ‘local’ feel to it (largely because it’s fairly undeveloped), and is home to a stretch of soft golden sand, along with a selection of fine-dining restaurants with stellar ocean views. Megali Ammos is a particularly strong choice for visitors staying in Mykonos for a short time, wanting both a taste of the island’s chic party scene and some time on the beach. On windier days, it’s also a popular windsurfing spot.
Watching The Tide Roll Away, Plum Guide home in Mykonos, Greece
Psarou
A bird's eye view of parasols and people on the sandy beach and in the sea in Psarou, Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is famous for its luxury and hedonism, and there’s nowhere better to experience this than Psarou. The place to see and be seen, Psarou is known to attract a celebrity or two - let’s just say that you’ll have no shortage of sleek yachts to admire. Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, and Dior stores are also on hand, just in case there’s need for a new Mykonos wardrobe. Having sipped champagne at famed beach bar and restaurant Nammos and strolled the golden sands of the bay, you'll be ready to "lose" your passport. The culture and nightlife of Mykonos Town are only a mere 4km away too, with a regular bus service making the journey a cinch, so you're never too far from the action.
Cycladic Cool, Plum Guide home in Mykonos, Greece
Ornos
A close up view of clear blue water rolling onto the sand at Ornos Beach, Mykonos, Greece
What’s better than a remarkable beach on your doorstep? Perhaps two remarkable beaches on your doorstep. The question of where to stay in Mykonos has no wrong answers for beach lovers - there’s no shortage of choices - but Ornos is certainly high on the list. Linking the main body of Mykonos and the outcrop of Agios Ioannis Diakoftis, Ornos sits on a narrow strip of land between the two, affording the village two bays of golden sand. The southern (Ornos Beach) is sheltered and popular with families, while the northern (Korfos) is a natural paradise for windsurfers and kite-surfers. The village itself is full of Cycladic charm, in addition to a pleasing selection of global-inspired eateries, while Mykonos Town is just 3km away.
Island Light, Plum Guide home in Mykonos, Greece
Agios Ioannis
An aerial view of a sunset over houses and boats in Agios Ioannis, Mykonos, Greece
On arriving in Agios Ioannis, you might get a distinct sense of déjà vu. This is thanks to the village’s spot in the cinematic history books, having provided the setting for scenes in the 1989 classic Shirley Valentine. The compact but pristine beach is popular with families, and generally a little less hectic than some of the island’s more developed areas - still boasting a range of unmissable dining options, however. Among Agios Ioannis’s key selling points are its view over the neighbouring island of Delos, and its proximity to the relatively undiscovered Kapari Beach - among the island’s most secluded and beautiful. All this lies within a short bus ride of Mykonos Town, too.
Platis Gialos
A motorboat docked on the clear blue water of Platis Gialos Beach, Mykonos, Greece
When it comes to Mykonos, Platis Gialos is rightly known as a solid all-rounder. Shallow, calm waters and silky sands make it an ideal option for families, who will also appreciate the abundance of cafes and tavernas that line the crescent bay. The variety of water sports on offer (from jet skiing to tubing) also make this a hotspot for activity. Platis Gialos is accessible via public transport from Chora, and even boasts a boat taxi to the party haven that is Paradise Beach - should you be ready to dance until dawn. What’s more, with the beach a seven-minute taxi from the airport, you can be enjoying the refreshing waters of the Aegean within moments of landing.
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