Best Time to Visit Mykonos

The cosmopolitan island of Mykonos is visited by millions of travelers annually since its vibrating nightlife and wonderful shores comprise a pole of attraction for young people, couples, celebrities, and jet setters alike.
You will find information about the best time to visit Mykonos below.

Table of contents:
• High Season • Shoulder Season • Off-Season

In brief, most visitors book their vacation on the "Island of Winds" between June and August, as the hot weather, sunny days, and pulsating party scene reach their peak.
But going to Mykonos during the high season is not the sole option; the island has gradually evolved into an (almost) year-round destination, with considerable emphasis placed on the milder shoulder season.

Let us take a more detailed look at the best time to visit the island, its seasons, along with the best things to do for each of them.

Starting with the most sought-after visiting period, Mykonos’ potential is undeniably at its peak during summertime.
From June to late August, the small Cycladic wonder welcomes the majority of its annual visitors.
While it does get crowded, especially in its southern and western parts, that should not discourage anyone from having a fantastic time.

Booking Arrangements for Summer Vacation

Firstly, for a pleasant vacation, it is vital to have an equally satisfying accommodation experience. There are plenty of splendid locations in Mykonos to stay at, depending on your expectations and needs.

Lodging in Mykonos Town (Chora) ensures short distances from the nightlife hotspots, the acclaimed cocktail bars, the cozy boutiques and promenade taverns. It also diminishes the need for a vehicle, as the Town’s bus stations can be reached on foot and allow for frequent and cost-effective trips. Chora’s outskirts provide the same amenities and proximity to the picturesque Windmills and the Venetian Castle among others, while luxury and serenity are present, away from the epicenter of attention. (View all things to do)

Furthermore, if you are a sports enthusiast or prefer walking to the beach instead of driving, beachfront accommodation should be the go-to option. Shimmering bays like Paradise, Elia, Kalo Livadi, Psarou, Ornos, and Agios Ioannis are among the top regions for that type of lodging.

Keep in mind that once you have decided upon visiting during summertime, booking your accommodation and airplane or ferry tickets (depending on how you choose to travel to and from the island) should be arranged at least 4 to 8 months in advance. Booking the tours, activities and workshops in advance is highly recommended, as they sell out during the high season.

Last but not least, making early dining reservations as well as sunbed reservations will save you tremendous hassle and time. If you prefer discovering Mykonos at a tailor-made pace, book your rental vehicle in Mykonos with Greeka a few months in advance for the best rates available.

Weather Conditions in Summertime

Greece has hot summers, thanks to its Mediterranean position. While temperatures climbing up to 37℃ is ordinary in July and August, the Cycladic islands are not affected as much as the mainland. Especially on Mykonos, the seasonal Meltemi winds during those months maintain temperatures between 19℃ and 29℃.

Enjoy a great summertime on this splendid Aegean island by using sunblock products and avoiding long sun exposure. A light jacket or shawl at night is also recommended.

Tours, Activities & Events during Summer

Mykonos is a thriving Cycladic destination during the high season thus, the available excursions and activities are great additions to any itinerary. To alleviate the blazing sun, a visit to Kalafatis bay, Ftelia, or Korfos will introduce you to the exquisite sports of windsurfing and kitesurfing. For a more relaxed approach, scuba diving or sailing to the intriguing islands of Delos and Rhenia are excellent alternatives.

Take a more detailed look at all available tours & activities as well as the sports and find the best ones for you.

Furthermore, on a more cultural approach to Mykonos, enjoy the numerous events and concerts taking place at the Odysseas Elytis amphitheater in Chora, as well as the famous bays of the island. If you visit around the 15th of August, you can engage in one of the main local and religious events, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It is followed by days of feasts and celebrations, where you may interact with the locals for a more authentic experience.

Island-hopping

Island hopping tours from Mykonos constitute the perfect getaway, creating the opportunity of exploring more Aegean destinations for moderate prices. The ferry routes connecting Mykonos with other Cycladic islands are daily and reliable throughout the tourist season.

The top island destinations are Santorini, Paros and Ios for endless pampering and partying, while Naxos, Koufonisia and Milos offer a serene and welcoming antithesis.

Take a look at the best island-hopping bundles including Mykonos and elevate your Greek vacation.

 

Spring and autumn are exquisite seasons to visit Mykonos without the endless tourist waves and strenuous expenses.
Mid-April to late May and September to late October are ideal for switching off and enjoying the laid-back and cozy ambiance.
Almost all establishments, tours and day trips are available, while cultural excursions are favored, too.

Weather Conditions

The weather during spring and fall is much milder compared to the hot summer and chillier winter. The daylight time is enough for travelers to get a nice tan, as well as make the most out of their vacation time. With temperatures fluctuating between 18℃ and 23℃, the weather is formidable for any kind of tour and activity. Island hopping to other Aegean destinations is also recommended, along with sailing tours to the intriguing Delos and Rhenia islands.

Booking Arrangements

While much more relaxed than summer, spring and fall have been growing in tourism in the last decade. Booking all airplane or ferry tickets, accommodation and rental vehicles is important. Reserve every facility a couple of months in advance and take advantage of the great offers and prices.

If you plan on visiting during the springtime, specifically during the Easter holidays, it is recommended to check the dates early, as Easter is an inconstant celebration. Additionally, many Greeks grasp the opportunity of workplace vacation and school breaks to visit the Cyclades during that period. Hotels and restaurants will be buzzing with festivities and guests. Staying between 4 and 8 days is ideal for that season.

Advantageous Aspects

Spring and fall turn Mykonos into a fascinating color palette, enhancing its landscapes without the harsh sunlight of summer. There is no congestion in the alleys of Chora or Ano Mera, and traffic is back to its usual levels, allowing for comfortable and swift transportation around the island.

Furthermore, with prices being moderate (with great offers the closer you book to the low months), visitors can try more experiences, flavors and activities. Dine at the top restaurants or the cozy taverns hassle-free. Enjoy your drinks in Little Venice in a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Interaction with the locals is also much easier and more personal.

Moreover, sightseeing is an excellent option too, as visitors can take in the experience without waiting in queues; from the intriguing museums in Chora, the orthodox monasteries near Ano Mera, and the wineries, to the Venetian Castle or the historical Delos island, everything can fit in the itinerary. The nightlife is also active during spring and fall, with many parties and events taking place.

Lastly, while it may be a bit chilly for open water swimming, lounging next to the sea and diving in a heated pool can ideally substitute it.

 

Mykonos has been experiencing a small but steadily growing tourist influx during wintertime.
This concerns the period between early November and late March.
Travelers have been booking their vacation close to the winter holidays, combining the low prices with the tranquility of the island.

Booking Arrangements

While booking tickets and accommodation in the low season doesn't come with packed routes and rooms, it is important to note a few things. The most important thing is to double-check the airplane or ferry routes of your arrival and departure, as they are limited during winter.

Furthermore, upon selecting the lodging of your preference, contact it early to confirm that every facility and amenity will be available. Some hotels limit their amenities in wintertime due to low visitor numbers, while others remain closed until springtime. Staying in town is ideal, as it remains lively and some establishments are operating. The other parts of Mykonos tend to get very quiet during winter. An ideal stay can last for at least 3 to 5 days.

Weather Conditions

While the Mediterranean winter is much milder than that of central or northern Europe, it can still get chilly with sporadic rainfalls and cloudy days. The temperature is usually between 5℃ and 15℃, but it is pleasant on sunny days. Make sure to pack a warm pair of boots, a coat, a scarf and a trusty umbrella; no excess is required. Open-water swimming during winter is not recommended for beginners, as the waters are icy cold. A heated pool or hot tub will warm and pamper you instead.

Activities & Events

While the seashores are only pleasant for walks, Mykonos offers its cultural and traditional side to winter travelers abundantly. Make sure to visit the informative and well-maintained museums of Chora with their folklore and archaeological displays.

Moreover, sightseeing in the picturesque settlements of Chora and Ano Mera is a great way to discover the Mykonian identity; from the emblematic Windmills and the Venetian Castle to the unique orthodox monasteries and churches, the mosaic of Mykonian beauty will excite you. Alternatively, you may familiarize yourself with the locals during the winter holidays, as many Greeks visit the island and their families there. Lastly, the local taverns and relaxing bars will accompany you during your stay with their mouth-watering delicacies and drinks.