Mykonos: A whitewashed paradise

The island is renowned for its azure coloured waters, white sand beaches, pink sunsets and whitewashed buildings

Renowned for its azure coloured waters, white sand beaches, pink sunsets and whitewashed buildings with blue doors, Mykonos has come to be known as the most famous island of the Cyclades. Its blue-domed churches and sugar-cubed houses draped with Bougainvillea dot its hills, and make for a scenic view from any point on the island.

The island offers spectacular views of the cycladic architecture as well as archaeological day trips to nearby islands. Its cobbled streets, winding alleys, boutique stores, cafes, restaurants and stunning beaches are some of the many reasons why Mykonos has become a favourite of the Aegan island.

PHOTO: THEMANEWS



With its narrow, winding alleyways, Chora Village is the heart of the island. Closed to traffic for most of the day, the island allows visitors to explore the cobbled streets by foot to browse shops, ice cream boutiques and exquisite art galleries.



Little Venice is a prominent part of Chora village, a historic 18th-century district where sugar-cubed houses have been converted into chic cafes and line the coast, with their balconies overlooking the Aegan sea. Droves of tourists gather here for spectacular views of the sunset and windmills.

PHOTO: THEMANEWS



The church complex of Panagia Paraportiani is a notable landmark worth seeing in the village. Recognised as a national cultural monument, the church is a true representation of Cycladic architecture and one of the most photographed churches in the world. It dates back to the 15th Century and was built next to the entrance of the Medieval castle in Mykonos, which has since been destroyed.





Since as early as the 16th Century, the windmills of Mykonos have been the most recognised landmarks of the island and have become a quintessential feature of the Mykonos landscape. The windmills, although no longer in use, are a symbol of the island's history and make an appearance on almost every postcard. Climb atop the hills during sunset for the best photographic shots of the windmills.





Picturesque beaches with crystal clear water and golden sand offer a tranquil haven for holidaymakers and are easy to access from the island. Psarou, Paradise and Super Paradise are among the popular beaches, all of which offer water sports. Lia, Fokos and Agios Sostis beaches are the more idyllic and peaceful beaches with great diving spots and spectacular views.