Is Mykonos Expensive? Your Complete Guide to Saving Money on the Greek Island
When you think of Mykonos, images of glamorous beach clubs, luxurious yachts, and high-end restaurants probably come to mind. It’s true that this Cycladic island has a reputation for being one of the most expensive destinations in Greece, a fact that can be a bit of a shock to unprepared travelers. But does that mean a trip to Mykonos is only for the wealthy? Not at all.
Content Guide for Is Mykonos Expensive?
Experience the Magic of Mykonos Without Draining Your Wallet
Based on our on-the-ground experience, Mykonos is indeed significantly more expensive than many other Greek islands. We’ve found that prices for essentials like beach beds and umbrellas can be up to seven times higher. While you might find a set for €10 a day on other islands, in Mykonos during high season (July and August), prices start from a minimum of €70 and can reach hundreds of euros a day on some beaches. The same goes for dining: a meal in a traditional tavern can easily set you back €50 per person, while in more sophisticated restaurants, you should expect to spend at least €100 per person. Even a simple coffee or bottle of water can come with a surprisingly high price tag.
But here’s the good news: while Mykonos can be expensive, it is absolutely possible to experience its magic without completely draining your wallet. This guide will show you how to navigate the island like a pro, making smart choices to save money while still enjoying the best it has to offer.
Key Information on Prices (July/August 2025)
Before we dive in, it’s crucial to understand the pricing reality of Mykonos. Our on-the-ground research (as of July 31, 2025) shows that many average prices you see online, including on Google, are often underestimated, especially for the high season. Costs for sunbeds, drinks, and even a bottle of water (€7 in some beach clubs!) are frequently much higher than expected. Always check prices directly or prepare a budget that is higher than the online averages.
The Best Time to Visit (and Save Money)
Choosing the right time to visit Mykonos can make a huge difference to your budget.
- Ideal for Saving: If your goal is to keep costs down, May, early June, and September are your best bet. The weather is perfect, the sea is beautiful, and the atmosphere is more relaxed, all while prices for accommodation, rentals, and services are more accessible than in the peak season.
- If August is Your Only Option: We know that for many, August is the only time for vacation. Mykonos is at its most vibrant and crowded during this month, and prices are at their highest. If you must go in August, it’s worth remembering a crucial detail: in the event of flight overbooking, airlines often prioritize passengers who have checked in online first. This simple tip can save you a lot of hassle during the peak season!
Getting Around Mykonos on a Budget
Transportation can take a significant chunk out of your budget, but with a few smart choices, you can explore the island without spending a fortune.
- Public Buses: The Cheapest Option Mykonos has an efficient public bus service connecting Mykonos Town (Chora) to all the main beaches and villages. They are the most affordable way to get around, with frequent routes, especially during high season.
- Pros: Low cost, covers major routes.
- Cons: Can get very crowded during peak hours, and you often have to wait in the sun at the bus stops.
- Scooter or Quad: Freedom and Agility Renting a scooter or a quad offers great freedom and agility for exploring hard-to-reach coves. They are generally cheaper than a rental car and make parking much easier.
- Pros: Lower rental and fuel costs, easy to park, freedom to explore.
- Cons: Requires caution due to traffic and strong winds (Meltemi), not ideal for groups or families.
- Small Rental Car: Best for Groups If you’re traveling in a group, a small car is a smart choice. The island’s roads are narrow and winding, and a compact car will make navigating traffic and finding a parking spot much easier.
- Money-Saving Tip: Book your car well in advance! Booking months ahead can secure you a significantly better rate than last-minute rentals, especially during the high season when demand is sky-high.
- Taxis: Use Them Wisely Taxis in Mykonos are available but are notoriously expensive, especially for short trips or late at night.
- Money-Saving Tip: Try to negotiate a fixed daily rate with the driver if you plan to use taxis frequently. Otherwise, use them only in case of extreme necessity.
- On Foot: Explore Chora for Free Mykonos Town is perfect for walking. It’s the best way to discover the charming narrow streets and absorb the island’s unique atmosphere without spending a cent.
Enjoying Mykonos Beaches for Free (or Almost)
Mykonos is famous for its exclusive beach clubs and expensive sunbeds, but you don’t have to pay to enjoy its stunning waters.
Many of the most popular and organized beaches have small, free sections, often on the fringes, where you can lay your towel down. For a truly free experience, opt for the less-known and wilder beaches for an authentic connection with the island’s nature. A great tip for finding a free spot is to arrive early in the morning, before the beaches get too crowded. For example, even in late July 2025, during peak season, we found ample space for free beachgoers at Super Paradise Beach, especially in the morning. This tip works for other beaches too, like Ornos, Platis Gialos, and Paraga, where arriving early often allows you to secure a free spot. Please note: there is no free beach area at Paradise Beach.
- A Word of Caution: It’s very difficult to find beach umbrellas for sale in Mykonos, so come prepared or be ready to brave the sun. The strong Meltemi wind can also make it difficult to set up your own umbrella on free beaches.
- Accessible Beach Clubs: If you’re willing to pay for some comfort, some beach clubs offer more reasonable prices.
- Ornos Beach: This is a great option. While sunbeds on other southern beaches can start from €80-100, at Ornos you can find options starting from €50-60 (prices verified August 1, 2025).
- Anios Beach Club (Platis Gialos): This club offers a good middle ground, with sunbeds starting from €35 per person (verified July 30, 2025).
- Top Money-Saving Tip for the Beach: Bring your own water and food! A bottle of water can cost up to €7 at beach clubs, and a meal can be even more. Buy water at a supermarket for a normal price and grab a delicious, inexpensive sandwich (around €5 for a big one!) from one of the island’s many excellent bakeries. However, be aware that some beach clubs do not allow you to consume food or drinks not purchased on-site. In this case, you can simply step out of the beach club area to eat or drink your inexpensive and tasty meal.
Where to Eat Well and Inexpensively
Food is one of the biggest expenses in Mykonos. A cocktail can cost €15-20, and a meal in a traditional taverna can easily run €30-50 per person. To avoid unpleasant surprises, always check the menus displayed outside the restaurants.
- Authentic and Budget-Friendly Options:
- Gyros and Souvlaki: The most classic and affordable options. Look for “gyradika” (gyros shops) for a quick and delicious meal.
- Bakeries (Bakery): A lifesaver for your budget! Greek bakeries offer a huge variety of fresh pastries, both sweet and savory, at very low prices. They’re perfect for an inexpensive breakfast or a light lunch to take to the beach.
- Supermarkets: Your Low-Cost Pantry: Shopping at supermarkets is one of the most effective ways to save on food. Buy water, snacks, local cheese, and ingredients to make sandwiches for a beach picnic.
- Recommended Restaurants with Good Value for Money:
- Kiki’s Tavern (Agios Sostis): A rustic spot with no electricity and delicious grilled food. It doesn’t take reservations, so the queue can be long. Our money-saving hack: Go around 5:00 PM to eat early and avoid the crowd, all while enjoying a magical sunset for free.
- Thalas Tavern & Beach (Super Paradise Beach): Located on Super Paradise Beach, this spot is known for its fresh fish, beautiful views, and good atmosphere. While not the cheapest option, it offers a quality dining experience with an estimated cost of around €50-60 per person, making it a good choice for a special treat.
- Ano Mera and the surrounding area: The restaurants in the island’s more inland and less touristy areas, like Ano Mera, often offer better value for money and a more authentic experience.
Breathtaking Sunsets on a Budget
Watching the sunset in Mykonos is an essential experience, a ritual you can’t miss… even if trendy venues might make you spend more than you should. There’s a way to experience the magic of the sunset without emptying your wallet! Find out how and where in our next article:
Sunset in Mykonos: Where to See It Without Spending a Fortune (and Where to Treat Yourself)
Free (or Nearly Free) Activities in Mykonos
Mykonos offers plenty of activities that won’t cost you a fortune.
- Wander through Mykonos Town (Chora): Getting lost in the labyrinthine white streets is an attraction in itself—and it’s completely free.
- Explore Uncrowded Beaches: Discover hidden coves and beautiful, free beaches away from the crowds.
- Visit the Armenistis Lighthouse: Reachable by car or scooter, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, especially at sunset.
- See the Panagia Paraportiani Church: One of Greece’s most photographed architectural structures, this iconic whitewashed church is a free sight in the heart of Chora.
- Take a Picnic to the Beach: Instead of eating at an expensive beach club, pack a picnic with groceries from the supermarket. It’s a delicious and affordable way to enjoy the beach.