Mykonos Town (Chora Mykonos)
Mykonos, Mykonos
From the sea, the sun sparkles off the jumble of whitewashed houses and churches lining a maze of narrow, winding streets in Mykonos Town (Chora Mykonos). This picturesque Cycladic town, perched on a harbor in the middle of a wide bay, serves as the island’s commercial hub—its traditional buildings now occupied by shops, cafés, galleries, and Greek restaurants.
It would be nearly impossible to visit Mykonos without spending at least some time in Chora, also known as Mykonos Town. The walkable town is home to some of the island’s star attractions, including the former fishing village of Little Venice, iconic whitewashed windmills, the archaeological museum, and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. The neighborhood is best explored on foot; consider a walking tour with a local guide to learn more about its history and distinctive architecture.
Chora Mykonos is a hub of activity on the island and a must on any itinerary.
Don’t forget to bring sunglasses; the whitewashed architecture amplifies the already bright Mediterranean sunshine.
Cobblestones, hills, and steps make Chora a challenge for wheelchairs and strollers; make sure to book accessible transportation ahead of your visit.
Most visitors to Mykonos arrive by ferry or cruise ship. It’s a short walk into Chora Mykonos from the old port, but it’s best to take a taxi from the larger and newer port in Tourlos, as the 45-minute walk follows a busy road without a sidewalk.
If you’re not already staying in Chora Mykonos, plan to visit at least once around sunset, when the whitewashed architecture takes on shades of gold, pink, and red. While weather remains pleasant year-round, the best months for sparser crowds are September and October.
Chora might be the largest community on Mykonos, but it’s not the only one. Ano Mera, the only inland settlement on the island, is best known for its 16th-century monastery and collection of traditional Greek tavernas. Platys Gialos makes an excellent base for exploring the beaches on the southern shores, while Ornos and Agios Stefanos both offer several hotels, restaurants, and cafés.
Editor's Note: Photo courtesy of Jeremy Avnet via Creative Commons.
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