Mykonos is one of the most popular summer destinations in the world. 5-star hotels, a-listers, award-winning restaurants, parties, crystal clear waters, and the most beautiful sunset are only a few of the things that make this Greek island so special. 

I’m John Mekiamis, originally from Greece and currently a London based fashion influencer (@mekiamis). After I spent my last 4 summers in Mykonos, I’m ready to share my recommendations and tips you need to know before you land on the most-visited island in Greece.

So take notes!

@mekiamis
@mekiamis

Where to swim 

  • Alemagou beach: One of the first and most authentic beach restaurants on the island. Boho-chic vibes, amazing food and the most stylish crowd. Get ready to spend your whole day on the beach and stay until sunset where Alemagou hosts sunset parties you don’t wanna miss.
  • Scorpios: The place to be. The beach is not the best, so I would recommend you visit Scorpios after your morning swim at the beach. Perfect spot for lunch or dinner (amazing food), sunset drinks or dancing. It’s such a unique place that will win your heart for sure. Incredible interior design and every Thursday and Sunday everyone is there for the party. 
  • Jackie O beach: In Super Paradise beach, a place where you will fall in love, Jackie O is the most elegant and fun option. The beach and the sand are just amazing and when the sun is setting, the party and the drag show starts. Jackie O is well known as a gay destination, but everyone is welcome and everyone is having a blast. 
  • Wild by Interni. The small private beach inside Wild Hotel is a place where you can chill. Most people don’t know this hidden gem or they don’t know that people who don’t stay there can have access. If you wish to switch off, it’s your best option. 
  • Soho Roc House. A Soho House property with a Greek twist. This member’s only club is their best one of Soho House locations and you must visit it. Dive into the endless blue from their deck directly to the sea. Enjoy amazing views, outdoor gym facilities, great food, and of course sunset drinks.  
  • Solymar: In Kalo Livadi beach, golden sand and a wide landscape. Solymar has a great balance between relaxation and cosmopolitan vibes.
  • Nammos: Who doesn’t know this place in Psarou beach? The most well-known beach restaurant, where people party every single minute, every single day. 2 minutes away you can meet Nammos Village. Louis Vuitton, Loro Piana, and Balenciaga are only a few of the boutiques that are hosted there, but to be completely honest the food and the service in Nammos are not the best. 

Some free beaches you have to know:

  • Capari beach: My favorite beach on the whole island. Positano vibes and only a few people know about it 
  • Agios Sostis: The biggest free beach of Mykonos. Kiki’s Tavern is hosted there.
  • Elia Beach and Lia beach: Both of them have organised and free parts. 
  • Fokos and Mirsini: These two beaches are very close to each other. Are appropriate for those who want to discover the wild part of Mykonos. 

Extra tip: Book a boat tour to Delos. You will have the chance to see the ancient Greek sights and swim on some very private beaches like you are in paradise. 

Where to have lunch 

Most of the beach restaurants have amazing food and it’s worth giving it a try, but If you are strolling in Chora (old town) during the day these options are great:

  • Frati and Liberty for brunch.
  • Nice&Easy, brunch in Little Venice 
  • Kastro’s Restaurant for lunch 
  • Souvlaki Sakis or Pepper for greek authentic souvlaki
  • Casa di Giorgio, Italian food even for lunch or dinner
  • Kayak for ice cream

Outside Chora

  • Nikolas Tavern in Paraga. Small tables on the sand. This Greek tavern is beyond beautiful and is a must-do. Amazing Greek traditional food and so friendly staff.
  • Spilia Restaurant. Greek fish next to the sea and people dancing on tables.
  • Koutsothanasis bakery: A huge variety of pies and pastries. This is probably the best bakery shop you have ever been to.

Where to have dinner

  • Interni Restaurant: A big open space in the middle of Chora. Elegant interior that embody the island’s style. Nice food and a big bar in the middle of the restaurant. 
  • Noema: A lot of people say that they had their best food experience in Noema and I can’t disagree with them. The restaurant of the Scorpios family is a great choice for dinner or cocktails. 
  • Avra Restaurant: A really beautiful yard with a lot of references to a classic tavern and quality Greek food. 
  • Koursaros. White and blue interior. The best option for sushi or fish and I hear their cocktails are amazing. Koursaros is one of the first high-end restaurants that opened on the island. 
  • Katrin: Traditional Greek food in a small street next to a church. Only a few tables are available so if you fancy having dinner at Katrin, hurry up to make a reservation.
  • Sea Satin: Party like a Greek. People smash plates while they’re dancing, and a view of the windmills. You will feel like you are in an old Greek summer movie or starring at my Big Fat Greek Wedding.
  • Last but not least in Mykonos you can visit all the big restaurant chains like Nobu, Zuma, Buddha Bar, and Coya. 

Where to have drinks and which clubs to visit:

  • 180 Sunset bar: Early drinks under the orange-red sky.
  • Guzel Garden: A beautiful yard where you can start your night in the Old Town. 
  • Astra and Moni: House music, my two favourite clubs in the island’s center.
  • In Little Venice, there are many clubs next to each other where you can dance, the most popular is called Caprice. 
  • Cavo Paradiso: If you are lucky enough, Cavo Paradiso will host some of the biggest DJs in the world like David Guetta, Olly Molly, Peggy Gou and more the days that you are on the island. 

Where to shop:

  • Nammos Village: Every single luxury brand that you dream of, is there. Louisa Beach is my favourite multi-brand boutique in the village. 
  • In the island’s center, you can find many luxury boutiques as well. Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, etc.
  • Freeshop: From Jacquemus to Self-Portrait with a great brand selection.
  • Bollicine: The only popular concept store in Mykonos. Oseere Swimwear and Hunza.G if you are looking for a swimsuit, you know the right place to go. Unexpectedly cool fashion brands and art pieces. There is also a rooftop with amazing food and cocktails.
  • Enny Di Monaco: Fancy dresses with feathers, Alexander Vauthier and Magda Butrym, pass by Enny before your night out.