If you are visiting Greece, Mykonos is a must-visit. When traveling to Mykonos you will most likely have to do a layover in Athens since the island’s airport is pretty small. You could also take a ferry from Athens which takes around 3.5 to 5 hours on a ferry but if you fly from Athens is only 35 minutes. If you visit in low season, to fly it cost you around $45 and the ferry can be around $40 but if you take the fast ferry which will save you a couple hours will be more expensive. When I had to make the decision to fly or take the ferry, I decided it was faster and easier to fly than go by the ocean.
#LaMariaTravelsTip: when bucking a flight in Europe that says that the fare includes a carry-on, make sure your carry-on is European standards, not American standards. It would be safer for you to pay for a checked bag (and take a backpack as your carry-on item) before check-in otherwise you will be paying triple prices at the airport especially when you are flying in those small European regional airlines.
Where I stayed?
The Greek islands are not a cheap destination and Mykonos is not the exception. If you are traveling on a budget getting to Greece between March and May is more affordable. I stayed at Hotel Ilio Maris and paid an average of $140 a night, that when divided by two people is $70 a night and it included a buffet continental breakfast. To be honest, I believe that the price was pretty good since the room had a balcony with a view of the ocean, that is a win in my book. For this trip in particular when looking where to stay I was looking for something central. The hotel was walking distance to the famous Windmills and Mykonos town.
#LaMariaTravelsTip: when looking where to stay always look for a hotel that is pretty centered especially if you are going to be walking most of the time.
How to get around?
When traveling in Europe you can easily get around in public transportation but to be honest, in the Greek islands it is easier if you have a four-wheeler or small car to get around. In Mykonos, I rented a four-wheeler which was about $20 a day and for $5 you would fill the tank.
#LaMariaTravelsTip: If you have an American Driver’s License make sure you have an International Driving Permit otherwise you will not be able to rent a car or four-wheeler. If you are traveling from another country your license might be valid in Europe, make sure to look it up before traveling abroad.
What did I do?
I stayed in Mykonos for two nights, I basically had two full days since I arrived at 10 am on my first day there.
Day 1: Once we dropped our bags at the hotel we went first to the Windmills. The Windmills were a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Once we got there we just took some pictures and enjoy the view for a bit since it was pretty windy.
After that, we went straight to Mykonos town to explore. First, we passed by Little Venice, where you could eat at one of the restaurants that are right by the water. Unfortunately that day it was pretty windy and the restaurants were closed due to the waves hitting it. From there we submerged our selves in the town and walked around and shopped a little and had lunch a small window type of restaurant. I had the best Gyro ever!
While walking around we found a hidden gem and a very instagramable spot, the Paraportiani Church.
#LaMariaTravelsTip: When traveling to Greece in April, please beware that if you have overcast weather you will most likely need a jean jacket and it will be pretty windy.
Day 2: On our second day the sun finally came out and we decided to rent a four-wheeler to explore the other side of the island. Our first stop was a lighthouse at the top of a mountain which had an amazing view of the caldera. Then as the sun kept shining we made the decision to head back to the hotel put a bathing suit and go to one of the famous Mykonos beach clubs. Since it was low season not all beach clubs were open but we found one called “Paradise Club”. They had buy one get one cocktail so we stayed and had lunch and enjoyed the remaining of the afternoon. I tried to get to the water but it was WAY too cold for this tropical weather body, lol.
**Please be aware that all the prices I am giving you are based on low season, if you are planning to travel in the summer you will most likely be paying more for EVERYTHING including food.