The Ultimate Guide to Mykonos Town: Things to Do in Chora
Chora, also known as Mykonos Town, is the vibrant heart and soul of Mykonos. With its iconic whitewashed houses, labyrinthine alleys, and buzzing atmosphere, Chora is a must-see for every visitor. But what are the essential things to do in Mykonos Town to truly capture its essence? And how can you navigate it without the stress, especially during peak season? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents for Things to do in Mykonos Town, Chora
Unmissable Attractions in Mykonos Town
When you’re wondering what to do in Chora, these are the places you absolutely can’t miss:
- Little Venice: This is arguably the most picturesque area of Chora. With its colorful houses built directly on the water, reminiscent of the famous Italian city, Little Venice offers postcard-perfect views. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a sunset drink, as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a breathtaking show of light and color. Many of the old fishermen’s and captains’ houses are now charming bars and restaurants.
- The Windmills (Kato Mili): An unmistakable symbol of Mykonos, these historic 16th-century windmills stand on a hill overlooking Chora and Little Venice. They offer a spectacular panoramic view, especially at sunset. Many have been restored and are an unmissable photo opportunity. In the past, they were essential for grinding local grain, demonstrating a surprising engineering feat for their time.
- The Labyrinthine Alleys of the Center: Getting “lost” (in a good way!) among the narrow, whitewashed alleys of Chora is a quintessential experience. Every corner holds a surprise: small chapels, blooming bougainvillea, artisanal shops, and luxury boutiques. This maze of streets was historically designed to confuse pirates and protect the town.
- Panagia Paraportiani Church: The most photographed church on the island, known for its unique and asymmetrical architecture, which is the result of five smaller churches being built and fused together over centuries. It is located near the ruins of the old Venetian castle.
- Shopping and Nightlife: The center of Chora is a shopper’s paradise with a wide range of stores: from sparkling jewelers to boutiques for clothing, shoes, accessories, and even specialized swimsuit shops. There are also pharmacies and, of course, at night, the area comes alive with numerous restaurants and bars offering music and a vibrant atmosphere that grows after sunset.
A Journey to the Past: A Day Trip to Delos
If you are in Mykonos, you can’t miss a trip to Delos, an island just a short boat ride away but a world apart. Delos is not permanently inhabited but is a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site of global importance.
Historical Highlights and Ruins: In antiquity, Delos was considered the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis, making it a sacred island of extraordinary religious importance throughout ancient Greece. Besides its spiritual value, Delos was also a thriving commercial hub and a strategic port. Today, the island is an open-air museum where you can explore the impressive ruins of what was once a bustling city. The wonders to admire include:
- The remains of the Sanctuary of Apollo, with its majestic columns.
- The famous Terrace of the Lions, with its iconic marble statues.
- Private homes, often decorated with refined mosaics, which offer a glimpse into the daily life of the time.
- The Theater and the Agora, which testify to the greatness and social complexity of this ancient civilization. A walk among these ruins is a true journey back in time, an experience that deeply enriches a visit to Mykonos.
How to Get There from Chora: Reaching Delos from Mykonos Town is simple and quick. Numerous ferries and tourist boats depart daily from the Old Port of Chora. The boat trip is short and pleasant, allowing you to reach the sacred island in about 20-30 minutes.
Explore the Rich History of Mykonos: Immerse Yourself in the Past by Visiting Delos, the Sacred Island of Apollo. For further insights on Delos and its intriguing history, check out the accompanying article.
Historical Things to Do in Mykonos: Dive into History with a Trip to Delos, the Island of Apollo
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Mykonos Town
Making the most of Chora requires some careful planning, especially during high season:
- Transportation: The key to getting around Mykonos, and especially Chora, is a small vehicle. A scooter is often ideal for navigating traffic and finding parking. If you opt for a car, choose a compact model. The island’s secondary roads are extremely narrow, and a large car can create difficulties.
- Parking in Chora: Finding parking in Mykonos Town is notoriously very difficult, especially during high season (July and August), when car traffic becomes considerable from late afternoon onwards.
- The Morning Window: The quietest hours are early in the morning (around 7-8 AM). At these times, you might still be able to find a free spot just outside the town center.
- Late Afternoon: If you arrive in the late afternoon, with a little luck and a small vehicle, it’s still possible to find free parking outside the center.
- Dinner Time and Late Evening: The real problem arises if you arrive when the evening has already begun or at dinner time. At that point, finding free parking is almost impossible, making valet parking services (with costs around 15-20 euros for a car) or paid parking the only realistic options.
- When to Visit Chora: During the day, the atmosphere is calmer, ideal for exploring the alleys and shopping. In the late afternoon, the town comes alive in anticipation of the sunset and the evening.
- Restaurants: There is a huge variety of restaurants in Mykonos Town to suit every taste and budget. You can find more informal options and Greek street food (like gyros or souvlaki) or more elaborate fine dining. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and international dishes. It is highly recommended to book a table if you have a specific restaurant in mind, especially during peak season.
- Evening Weather and Attire: While it’s hot during the day, Mykonos is often windy. As the sun goes down, the wind can make the air feel cooler (especially if you are near the sea, like in Little Venice). A light jacket or a shawl is a good idea for women, while a short-sleeved shirt is fine for men, especially in the sheltered streets of the center.
Experiencing the Evening in Chora: From Sunset Magic to Late-Night Energy
Our evening in Mykonos Town was a true succession of emotions, a crescendo of beauty and fun, all orchestrated by perfect timing. We arrived just in time for pre-dinner drinks and started our exploration by joyfully getting lost in the alleys of the center, with the daylight revealing every detail of the shops and hidden corners.
Then came the most anticipated moment: the enchanting spectacle of the sunset. A must-do in Mykonos Town is watching the sun plunge directly into the sea right in front of Little Venice. The pre-sunset paints the sky with incredible shades, reflecting on the water in a play of light perfect for breathtaking photographs.
As the light gave way to evening, Mykonos Town lit up with an undeniable energy. The music started to get louder, the bars filled up, and a pleasant buzz filled the streets. It’s the beginning of the party, a movement that grows but, surprisingly, maintains a general atmosphere of pleasantness and relaxation. A cocktail sipped in the warm evening air, with music in the background and the sea breeze: a perfect combination to end an unforgettable day.
Interesting Facts and Historical Notes
- The Charm of the Wind: The windmills are not just a beautiful sight. Their presence testifies to the crucial role of the wind in the island’s agricultural history, used for centuries for grinding grain.
- Architecture and Strategy: Chora’s labyrinthine urban layout is not a coincidence: it was designed to confuse invaders and protect inhabitants from the pirates who once infested the Aegean.
- Mykonian Mascot: Don’t be surprised if you encounter Petros the Pelican, the island’s unofficial mascot, often seen in the Old Port.
- Local Delicacies: Don’t forget to try the Onion Pie, a traditional island recipe, or taste the local honey, renowned since ancient times for its properties and varieties (thyme honey is particularly popular).
In summary, visiting Chora (Mykonos Town) is an experience rich in charm, history, and fun. By planning your arrival at the right time and choosing the most suitable mode of transport, you can enjoy every facet of this Cycladic gem, from its breathtaking views to its lively nightlife.