Mykonos is all about good vibes and style. It’s posh beach bars, fabulous parties, chic people, cool restaurants, and incredible energy. The mystic Greek Island Mykonos is the Crown Jewel of the Cycladic Islands. These islands are on the shores of Greece and an hour’s drive from Naxos. Based on Greek mythology, Mykonos was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. The Island was named after Apollo’s grandson “Mykonos” a local hero, who was their first ruler.
“The Island of the Winds”
The tourist never misses a chance to watch the golden glory of the sun shimmering on the shores in the morning. In the evening, the sky takes on a soft pastel hue as the sun sets. It’s one of my favorite things to do. The Islanders of Mykonos led a simple life steeped in tradition. You see the doors painted in bright dark blue and all white to soften the feeling of the hot sun on the houses and spaces. Mykonos’ nickname is “The Island of the Winds” and because of these winds, one of the defining features of the Mykonian landscape is the windmills.
To catch the sunset in every single place, the trick is TO ARRIVE EARLY and make enough time to stay. This means that wherever you go for the sunset, organize your schedule to stay for the evening. Because places get fully crowded and changing places is not a good idea. Iconic places usually have a dining and appetizers menu, so go for it.
Windmills
One of my recommended places to see the sunset is in the Windmills. Powered by the north wind, these windmills were used to ground grain into flour until the early 20th century. Many of them were built in the 16th century.
The famous Mykonos windmills are:
- Kato Mili (Lower Windmill). It stands strategically on a hill overlooking the sea and is beautifully lit up at night.
- Boni’s Windmill (Up the Hill). Now a folklore museum. It’s highly recommended for its incredible and stunning view of Little Venice houses, especially at sunset.
The windmills are the symbols of an important aspect of the Island’s history. Many of them were refurbished and restored. These days, no windmills are in operation and others around the island served as homes to locals and storage spaces. It’s perfect for the outdoors. Something well organized and of course, made by yourself, like making a picnic with some local Greek wine!
Little Venice (Alefkántra)
Little Venice is the opposite of the iconic windmills and has a beautiful scenic view for sunset. Lively, noisy, and bustling with life and is one of the most famous and charming spots on the island. The area got its name as the “picturesque setting in the sea” for its amazing view and the colorful aesthetics by the small houses and businesses overlooking the sea. It then belonged to the rich merchants and captains in the mid-18th century.
It has little basement doors that provide direct access to the sea and an underground storage area. And these led people to believe that the owners were secretly pirates. LOL! They said that behind these doors above the waterline, pirates would store their loot. And actually, when you see it, you can believe it too! That little basement is now converted into elegant bars, cozy restaurants, and nightclubs. You will reach Little Venice by walking from the windmills down the stairs, but make sure you get to sports around 4 pm. The place is mostly packed after 5.
Scorpios
Scorpios are my favorite place! Laid-back luxury atmosphere plus, stunning views over the sea and top-notch service. Classy, good aesthetics, stylish people, yacht port, and of course, good food. No doubt that it’s the most amazing beach club in Mykonos and definitely one you should not miss. The setting, the ambiance, the music, the decors, and the sunsets are absolutely to die for!
The Scorpios bar host lives music most nights. The sunset ritual – where violins play live as the sunsets, culminating in the most beautiful crescendo as the sun dips behind the sea – is something you NEED to experience. Also, you can make some luxury shopping. They have their own design shop focused on beachwear and a lot of vegan leather and fur. Make sure to make a reservation one day in advance or you probably won’t gonna make it.
180 Sunset Bar
This bar is part of the Mykonos Castle Panigirakis, a hotel, and event place. The bar perched on a hill has breathtaking panoramic views. It is overlooking Mykonos town, famous windmills, the harbor, and the most captivating and magical sunsets!
The best way to reach the bar is to walk. You can also take a vehicle but be aware that the roads are steep and narrow. We walk the whole thing and this was an adventure! Just make sure you are NOT wearing high heels. When you reach the hilltop, stellar views and yummy cocktails are waiting. Plus, seats and sofas dotted with ancient architectural features, meaning you’ll want to stay for more than just the panorama.
The bar offers a full cocktail list, Greek and International wine, and a champagne menu. They don’t currently have a full dining menu but offer some light snacks. So you better stop somewhere for dinner before going up! One more thing, make sure to make a booking before you go because it gets crowded quickly!
