1. Petros the Pelican

Petros the Pelican - Mykonos top attractions — Petros the Pelican

An old celebrity of the town’s waterfront, “Petros” has been the official mascot & one of Mykonos top attractions for many years. Found after a storm in 1954 the pelican gave up its migrating to become a local resident. After more than thirty years of making the island his home, Petros eventually died. The loss of such a personality was so deeply felt by both Mykonian and tourist alike that a replacement was soon found and a tradition established. Through the care and protection of the islanders, the spirit of Petros lives on in his predecessor who continues to this day to make his home on the island’s waterfront.

2. The Windmills

Mykonos Windmills - Mykonos top attractions — The Windmills

3. Little Venice

Little Venice - Mykonos top attractions — Little Venice

Where the most western part of the town meets the sea is the area known as “Little Venice”. Here the buildings have been constructed right on the sea’s edge with their balconies overhanging the water. During the 16th and 17th century pirating was common and it is believed this area was used for the necessary quick loading and unloading of goods.

4. Paraportiani Church

One of the most famous architectural structures in Greece & another one of Mykonos top attractions is the Paraportiani church. Positioned near the main harbor entrance, this church is the central feature of the “Kastro” or castle area, the oldest section of town. It’s name means inner or secondary door which it was to the Medieval stone walls which encircled the area. First begun in 1475, Paraportiani in reality is a group of five smaller churches which were constructed over a period of time and not completed until well into the 17th century. The two story structure was molded together utilizing four of it’s churches to form a base for the fifth church which when placed on top formed a central domed roof.

5. Delos Island

Delos History — Delos Island near Mykonos

One of Greece’s most famous archaeologic sites is the small island of Delos. Under the jurisdiction of Mykonos and situated just 2 kilometers to the west the entire island has been declared a national museum. Access to the island has been made readily available through Delos excursions which leave daily from Mykonos. Read about HISTORY OF DELOS.

6. The Armenistis Lighthouse

Built in 1891, the Armenistis Lighthouse is situated on the north-western tip of Mykonos, overlooking the strait that separates the island of Tinos from Mykonos. Due to its high elevation the view from this location is a particularly memorable scenic attraction. Specifically the lighthouse design is an octagonal cylindrical stone tower with lantern and gallery at an overall height of 19 meters (62 ft). Its focal plane is 184 meters (604ft) with a white beacon flash every 10 seconds. The original Fresnel lens when replaced was put into a replica lantern house which is now on display in the garden of the Aegean Maritime Museum in Mykonos Town. At a distance of approximately 6 km from town, the lighthouse can be reached by taking the coastal road that passes through both Saint Stefanos and the Houlakia Bay area.

7. Mykonos Beaches

Last, but probably the most known of all Mykonos top attractions are the beaches. Mykonos beaches are popular all around the world. There is over 25 accessible beaches on the island, most with the golden sand and crystal waters. See our pick for 3 top beaches in Mykonos.