Mykonos © Charles Haynes

The cosmopolitan and picture-perfect island of Mykonos attracts thousands of cruise passengers every year; the island's boutique-lined paved streets, white-washed houses with blue doors, and picturesque harbour never seem to go out of fashion. This upmarket Greek island is possibly the most expensive of all the Greek islands and has a thriving gay scene with heaving clubs and lots of loud music. But despite the trendy nightlife and glitzy guests, this island has managed to retain its natural and traditional charm. Passengers arriving in Mykonos Town are usually met by the island's mascots, the pink pelicans. Key attractions include thatched windmills, miles of sandy white beaches, the Aegean Maritime Museum and Little Venice.

Ships dock at the cruise port at Tourlos, which is located just outside of Mykonos Town. Shuttles transport passengers into town in just three minutes while for ships that anchor offshore, tenders will transfer passengers right into town.

Contact

Tourism Office, Mykonos Town

Tel: +30 228 902 5250

Transport

Many ships anchor and for these, tenders will transport passengers straight into town. Passengers who dock at Tourlos can make use of the shuttle bus service that is provided at the harbour and takes visitors into town; taxis can also easily be hailed from Taxi Square in the Mykonos Waterfront. Walking into town will take approximately 30 minutes.

Attractions

Visitors to the port of Mykonos Town should visit the Archaeological Museum, Aegean Maritime Museum, Little Venice and the church of Virgin Mary of Paraportjanis, which is recognised as a National Monument. The miles of beaches are also worth a visit for all sun-worshippers, especially Platis Gialos Beach and Agios Stefanos.

Restaurants

Nammos - trendy beach restaurant with great atmosphere and views over the yacht marina

Mamacas Mykonos - located close to Taxi Square and serving affordable traditional Greek fare

M-eating - fine dining offering fantastic and authentic Greek food

Best Dish

Souvlaki and gyros

Shopping

Shops and informal markets line the streets of Mykonos Town and plenty of shopping opportunities exist in almost every corner of this tourist-geared island. Stores touting souvenirs such as jewellery, paintings and other local wares can be found along the waterfront area in abundance.

Best Buy

Original art works and gold jewellery

Excursions

Visit the archaeological museum island of Delos

Visit Little Venice

Explore Panagia Tourliani Monastery

Hit the many excellent beaches

Go windsurfing at Kalafatis beach