Best time to visit Mykonos

Ready to live out your Mamma Mia fantasy? If you’re keen to channel your inner Donna and embrace one of Greece’s most spellbinding islands, then Mykonos is the right place for you. Known as the wild child of the Cycladic Islands, Mykonos - with its idyllic allure, style and spirit - is pretty hard for any holidaymaker to resist. It’s a party beach destination that practically ouzos with charm. 

From beautiful blue ocean waters and secluded sandy beaches to thronging evening cocktail bars and a palatable party scene, this island offers the ultimate Grecian getaway. Whether you’re planning a party packed week away with your nearest and dearest or simply fancy a laidback long weekend with a loved one, you’re guaranteed to find all manner of magic in Mykonos. 

Though Mykonos is pretty paradisiacal whatever the weather, there are certain times of the year that offer the island in the best light possible. When booking your next trip to Mykonos, we recommend that you decide exactly what you want to get out of your trip away beforehand - and we’re here to help you do just that.

Keen to know when the best time is to visit Mykonos? Our friendly team of advisors here at good trip marketplace have broken down the key holiday seasons to help guide you… 

 

Low season (October to April) 

If you’re hoping for a low budget holiday and are willing to pay less for cooler temperatures and duller skies, then this is a good time to visit the island of Mykonos. Rather than the chocka-block crowds and a non-stop party scene, this time of year will offer you a little more me-time and some space on the sand to enjoy Mykonos’s beaches. 

Though the number of hotels and restaurants is limited during this time, there is enough going on to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed breakaway. Ferries still run so that holidaymakers can visit the likes of Syros and Athens - so there are plenty of options if you fancy a change of scenery. 

Best things to do during the low season:

Leaning towards laying low in Mykonos? If you’re keen to have this Grecian paradise all to yourself and explore its natural beauty without the hordes of other eager tourists, then look no further than the low season. Here are some of the best activities to do in Mykonos at this time of year: 

  • Searching for solitude? Sink your feet into white sands and discover some of the desolate beach fronts of Mykonos. Enjoy clear waters at picture-perfect beaches such as Psarou Beach, Elia Beach and Super Paradise Beach.
  • Down for a dip? If you’re keen to get dudey and sample some gnarly waves, the northern beaches pick up some serious wind - resulting in fabulous weather for water sports. Try Ftelia, Agia Anna, Kalo Livadi and Platys Gialos for activities such as wakeskating and kite surfing. Whatever you choose to do, don't forget to pack your swim and active wear.
  • Hoping to indulge in a little history? Spend some time marvelling at the charming seaside buildings along the edges of Little Venice, stand in awe of some of the beautiful prehistoric vases at the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos or look around the Paraportiani Church. If you are venturing out then don't forget to take a bag. A small rucksack, crossbody bag or bumbag are perfect to take when out exploring.

Shoulder season (May and June, early September) 

For those who don’t enjoy the scorching heat but like the guarantee of great warm weather, the shoulder season is the best time for you. Unlike the peak high season, this time of year offers gloriously long and sunny days, with the sun sticking around until around 8 pm, perfect weather for sunnies and caps! 

Beach parties tend to start around mid-June so, before then, tourists are likely to be around but not in huge crowds. June is when most of the bouncing beach parties begin, so the prices of hotels are likely to start creeping up during the end of the month.

Mykonos is renowned for its gay-friendly nightlife - with its open-minded atmosphere welcoming all parts of the community during all months of the year. If you’re all about the LGBTQ+ community, either a member or an ally, then visiting Mykonos in September is a great section of the shoulder season to roll with, as lots of the festivities and events take place during this time. 

Best things to do during the shoulder season:

Hoping to avoid hoards of tourists but still in need of a little Vitamin D? If you’re yearning for some warmth and sunshine but want to sidestep the hustle and bustle of the high season, we recommend booking your holiday to Mykonos during the shoulder season. Here are some of the fun ideas of things to do during this period: 

  • Interested in ocean life? Always quieter during the off and shoulder season, snorkelling is a fantastic way to discover what’s beneath the waves and explore the shores surrounding Mykonos island. For beginners, Paranga Beach is said to have the calmest water for snorkelling. If you fancy some deep-water snorkelling then you can book yourself onto a boat tour (which costs around 50 euros per person).
  • Keen for a cruise? Though this may be more on the expensive side, cashing in for a cruise to scenic spots is a great way to immerse yourself in the Grecian surroundings. Nip over to Rhenia Island, Delos or even Santorini if you want to have a relaxed day of exploring. 
  • Want a taste of the island? Take a bite out of the Greeks’ rich cuisine and sample the delicious eateries located around the island. If you’re a foodie who enjoys trying local delicacies and fine food, the shoulder season is a great opportunity to secure a table at the best restaurants in the island’s quieter coves. Get lost in local flavours and try delicious kopanisti, a creamy cheese spread, and louza, which is thinly sliced, salty pork. 

Peak season (July to August)

 

Fancy yourself a bit of a party animal? Want to swim in warm waters, snack on delicious olives and sip cold cocktails in the baking hot sun? If you want never-ending options, glorious weather and all the action, then the high season is the perfect time for you to visit Mykonos. 

However, come July the island is properly waking up from low and medium seasons - meaning that bars and restaurants can get a little crazy in the evenings. If you’re hoping for a quiet family vacay, then this wouldn’t be the best time to visit. 

Naturally, with busy periods comes a lot of congestion which is likely to make trips that involve cars and buses twice as long. With high volumes of tourists resulting in high prices too, this isn’t the best time to visit for people who want an undisturbed trip on a low budget. 

Best things to do during the high season:

Ready to embrace the busiest time of the year and throw yourself into all the summer action? If you're a party lover who wants to get golden brown in Mykonos town, then the high season is right up your alley. Here are some of the best things to do during this time: 

  • Fancy going off the beaten track? Journey to the lesser-known town of Ano Mera and experience its sleepy, rustic-chic appeal - from gorgeous terraces along cobbled streets to whimsical whitewashed buildings, this place is a charming oasis. It’s also home to a 16th-century monastery, Panagia Tourliani, which boasts of beautiful paintings and rich religious history.
  • Feel like getting festive? There are a number of events that take place during the summer months that drum up a great atmosphere and an appreciation for this beautiful island. Why not try a taste experience and celebrate Ano Mero’s extraordinary Feast Day? Or perhaps attend the famous Mykonos Summer festival? The island is overflowing with culturally rich events to throw yourself into. 
  • Move aside ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ - fancy a big, fat glass of wine? If you know your Malbec from your Merlot, a day out in the vineyards at a wine tasting may be a great way to spend your day in Mykonos. For traditional tastes and glorious views, journey to Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm and drink in your surroundings (oh, and the wine too). 

So whether you want to opt for a party paradise, or prefer a slower, more kicked-back experience of the island, Mykonos holds a little something for everyone to enjoy - you’ve just got to get your timings just right! 

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