Picturesque Mykonos, Greece.

Story & Photos by: Jordan Jones

The Greek Islands – some 6,000 islands, 227 of which are inhabited – have long been a popular tourist destination and it is easy to see why. Combining fascinating history with extraordinary beauty and modern amenities, they have something to offer for every traveler. The island of Mykonos, located in the famed Cyclades archipelago, is a perfect embodiment of what makes these islands so delightful and is well worth the visit for any curious traveler.

A domed church on Mykonos.

Mykonos has been inhabited for over 3,000 years. It even appears in ancient Greek mythology as the site of a battle between Zeus and the Titans. Throughout its long history, its location and role as a maritime trading post made it a sought-after piece of real estate among the great powers of the Mediterranean. The ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans all laid claim to Mykonos for a period in time. With the Greek War of Independence in 1830, the island once again fell back into Greek hands, where it has remained ever since.

Visitors take a moment to snap photos of Greece’s historic windmills.

History buffs looking to explore the island’s heritage need look no further than its architecture. Two picturesque examples are the centuries-old Venetian-built windmills that still line seaside hills and the ancient, maze-like streetscape of Chora (intentionally designed to confuse so as to thwart looting pirates). But the most obvious historical artifacts, and by far the most numerous, are the churches.

An ornate Greek Orthodox church with intricate paintings and chandeliers.

Greece has a countless number of churches, chapels and monasteries, and Mykonos is no exception. I’ve seen estimates as high as 800 and as low as 365 (one for each day of the year) but the exact count still remains highly debated. Though they are nearly all Greek Orthodox, they range a great deal in terms of size, age and design. The Panagia Paraportiani, one of the most famous churches in Greece, was built between the 15th and 17th centuries and is actually five churches in one.

Regardless of style or time, each church in Mykonos has a unique history and story attached. For the thoughtful traveler who needs a bit of quiet and reflection, these buildings provide a brief respite from the sun-drenched hustle and bustle of the villages. And they are never far and few between, with almost one on every corner. Just be conscientious not to enter during a service.

Wonder the streets for souvenir shops to international luxury retailers.

For those looking for what the Greek islands are renowned for — namely, turquoise waters and Mediterranean sun – Mykonos will not disappoint. Dedicated shoppers willing to leave the seaside and step ashore will discover elegant shops selling Louis Vuitton and other luxury name brands alongside an assortment of souvenirs and trinkets. Don’t be afraid to wander. In Chora, the largest town on the island, even the most out-of-the-way back alleys contain charming, tiny shops selling paintings or hand-carved plates of olive wood. The winding streets, quaint houses and gorgeous white-azure color scheme make bargain-hunting a delight even on the hottest of days.

Little Venice is a historic neighborhood littered with bars and restaurants along the water.

Food lovers are rewarded for exploring the village’s winding streets. While there are plenty of quality and lively places to eat on the beaches, it’s the hidden gems worth the time-tested method of just wandering around. That’s how I found one of the most satisfying meals of my life at Eva’s Garden; on the patio of a modest restaurant tucked away in Chora’s labyrinthine heart. The stuffed grape leaves – a Greek favorite – are particularly savory here, and I highly recommend the shrimp saganaki: large shrimp in a sauce of tomato, feta and wine. Wash it down with Mythos, a very refreshing Greek beer.

The hanging vines and flowers on the patio of aptly named Eva’s Garden.

Bright white and azure.

Travelers looking to get the full Mykonos experience must sample the two things the island is most famous for: its beaches and its nightlife. Mykonos boasts so many beaches that it has been nicknamed the “Capri of Greece.” Tourists tired of sightseeing can lounge the day away on white sand beaches and swim in the dark blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

After sunset, outgoing visitors can patronize the island’s many clubs and bars, which are renowned for their liveliness and variety. Stay out late enough and you may even be able to see the sunrise. Many of the establishments stay open until dawn. Notables to visit: Cavo Paradiso, located near Paradise Beach (one of Mykonos’ most popular beaches) and a 10-minute cab ride from Chora and Space Club, the largest nightclub in Chora. Both are massive, world-class establishments in the club scene. Also check out the famed Skandinavian Bar, which has been a fixture of Mykonos nightlife since 1978…that’s over three decades in the spotlight!

If you plan your timing right and land in the Greek Islands between late June and late August, you can take advantage of The Yacht Week. The two-month long festivities are held throughout the Sardonic Archipelago, a group of islands removed from the tourist path. There’s yachts, yes, but plenty of other things to do as well, like swimming, day parties, night clubs, and lots of socializing.

Whether traveling to another Mediterranean destination or looking to plan your next getaway, make a point to visit Mykonos. You won’t be sorry you did, but rather sorry you missed it. Even after thousands of years, Mykonos is still a paradise.

An unobstructed water view in the Little Venice neighborhood.