Hopping 5 Top Mykonos Villages Worth a Spot on Your Bucket List
Besides a fabled party mecca, Mykonos also bewilder with its traditional Cycladic architecture, natural scenery, and gorgeous seascapes. The cloudless Mediterranean sky and the cobalt waters of the Aegean, along with a high-spirited lifestyle, make Mykonos irresistible. Among the many things to fall in love about the Island of the Winds is its Instagram-perfect villages, the most popular of which are mentioned right below!
1. Mykonos Town
Also referred to as the Chora, Mykonos Town is one of the most alluring towns in Mykonos. With charming cobbled streets, endless shops, churches, chapels, terraces, windmills, and whitewashed houses with bougainvillea-filled balconies, the Chora is a lovely place to both wander around and experience the most vibrant nightlife in the Mediterranean.
Although it cannot be regarded as one of the many Mykonos villages that draw the attention of tourists, given its cosmopolitan nature, it still is a pole of attraction for thousands of travellers that visit the Queen of the Cyclades. Be it for its archaeological museums, the two harbours, the many dining and clubbing options available, the marvellous views of the Aegean Sea, the boutique hotels, the designer shops, the quaint Little Venice area, or the vivid party scene, Mykonos Town never ceases to amaze. No wonder most Mykonos excursions start from the bustling island capital. Also, the central bus station is located here, with buses running to and from all the major Mykonos villages, beaches, and sights.
Finally, the most prestigious Mykonos Town hotels are perched either in the city centre or in the dashing roundabouts.
2. Ano Mera
Ano Mera is one of the quieter Mykonos villages situated at the very heart of the island. It is less than a 15-minute drive from the capital and is the second most populated Mykonos village, with plenty to see and do. Expect a more laid-back lifestyle and locals living life in perfect harmony with the environment – as if the clocks have no place here. Small cafes, beautiful houses with colourful windowsills, flower-lined streets, family-run taverns serving local specialties, and sights such as the 16th-century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and the Monastery of Paleokastro, on the opposite hill of Ano Mera (the road to get here is great for hiking adventures), are some of the things worth seeing.
3. Glastros
You can’t list Glastros as one of the Mykonos villages as it is primarily considered a Mykonos suburb, it does enchant with its tranquil, village-like atmosphere and traditional Cycladic architecture. It occupies a spot of the southern part of Mykonos Town, some 2km from the city centre and the iconic Windmills. The closest beaches in Mykonos that deserve a place on your must-see list are Ornos, Platis Gialos, Tourlos, and Megali Ammos. Here, life is more fast-paced, with many cafes, luxury hotels, restaurants, open-air merchant stands, resorts, and exclusive villas creating the foundation for VIP-like holidays for families and couples alike. As for the panoramas you can treat your eyes with from Glastros, they are simply magical.
4. Tourlos
The majority of guests staying at Tourlos make it a starting point for several Day Trips from Mykonos. The pristine Agios Stefanos beach is nearby, as it the new port of Mykonos. The scenic settlement of Mykonos island Greece, is also a popular port for luxury yachts and cruise ships, alongside a favoured place to stay of you wish a more relaxed type of holidaymaking. Of all Mykonos villages, Tourlos is the one with the least lively nightlife. However, it can turn heads with gorgeous natural landscapes and its unique topography.
5. Ornos
Ornos is one of the most picturesque Mykonos villages on the southwest side of Mykonos Town. The small, sheltered harbour located here is home to luxury yachts, fishing boats, and everything in between while the region is quickly becoming a tourist hub. With a plethora of accommodation, shopping, and entertainment options, Ornos is a tourist resort that enables you to live memorable experiences. The homonymous beach with the crystalline sea and sandy shore is within an arm’s reach and is perfect for family vacations due to the shallow waters and the absence of waves (wind-protected area). Expect beach bars lining the shore, offering refreshing cocktails and a great selection of locally produced (and not only) wines. When the sun sets, do have a nice romantic stroll on the beach. You won’t regret it!
Where to Stay
Since most of Mykonos attractions are gathered in the Chora and the biggest Mykonos villages, it goes without saying that the majority of Mykonos accommodation options are found there as well, including Regal View Rooms. Rightfully so, considering that nearly all tourists coming to Mykonos want to be able to combine the legendary party scene of Mykonos with a more peaceful lifestyle when they so desire.
Providing amenities such as private outdoor Jacuzzi and well-appointed units equipped with all modern comforts, Regal View Rooms remains a top choice among guests in search of authentic experiences delivered by one of the highest-ranking hotels in Mykonos Town.