Mykonos Old Port Gialos
The historic heart of Mykonos, the Old Port (Gialos) captivates with whitewashed alleys, charming cafes, and iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, mild temperatures
Mykonos Old Port Gialos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, mild temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic heart of Mykonos, the Old Port (Gialos) captivates with whitewashed alleys, charming cafes, and iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean.
"The Old Port of Mykonos is a magical spot where history and vibrancy meet."
💰 Budget for Mykonos
Mykonos is notoriously expensive; triple your budget for a comfortable trip.
🚶♀️ Wander Chora's Streets
Get lost in the charming whitewashed alleys of the Old Port (Chora) for endless photo ops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Charming Old Port (Gialos)
Mykonos Town
Wander through whitewashed streets, browse boutiques, and enjoy waterfront cafes. A postcard-perfect scene day and night.
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Iconic Windmills
Chora Hilltop
These historic windmills offer stunning panoramic views of the bay and Little Venice. A must-see for photos and sunset appreciation.
Little Venice
Waterfront, Mykonos Town
Picturesque waterfront area with colorful buildings, bars, and restaurants right on the sea. Perfect for sunset drinks.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget Wisely for Mykonos
Embrace the Charm of Chora
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Budget for Mykonos
Mykonos is notoriously expensive; triple your budget for a comfortable trip. +1
🚶♀️ Wander Chora's Streets
Get lost in the charming whitewashed alleys of the Old Port (Chora) for endless photo ops.
🌅 Sunset Views
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from the windmills or Little Venice.
🚢 Cruise Port Transfers
Sea buses are available from the cruise port to the Old Port for a small fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Budget for Mykonos
Mykonos is notoriously expensive; triple your budget for a comfortable trip. +1
🚶♀️ Wander Chora's Streets
Get lost in the charming whitewashed alleys of the Old Port (Chora) for endless photo ops.
🌅 Sunset Views
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from the windmills or Little Venice.
🚢 Cruise Port Transfers
Sea buses are available from the cruise port to the Old Port for a small fee.
🐾 Cat Encounters
Keep an eye out for the many friendly cats roaming the island!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mykonos Old Port is lauded as a magical and beautiful spot where history meets vibrancy. Visitors praise its charming tavernas, boutiques, and the picturesque waterfront perfect for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities. The iconic windmills and Little Venice are consistently highlighted as must-see attractions. However, some find the island to be overly commercialized and expensive, particularly if they are not seeking nightlife.
"Epic & Beautiful port
Arrived here to visit from a cruise ship and had hesitates to come out, but really after I arrived I realized I did the right choice. It was really nice the spectacular windmills & marvellous little harbour.
All worth it!"
Paul Vivas
"The Old Port of Mykonos is a magical spot where history and vibrancy meet. Once the island’s main harbor, it’s now a laid-back marina and pedestrian zone, filled with charming tavernas, cafés, and boutiques. The port’s curved promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering endless photo opportunities—especially with anchored fishing boats bobbing beside luxury yachts.
Street musicians often play here, adding to the atmosphere. Grab a coffee or a gelato and enjoy people-watching while seagulls fly overhead. At night, the area transforms into a romantic scene with lights reflecting on the water and the sounds of clinking glasses from nearby bars.
From here, you can walk to the Church of Agios Nikolaos, Little Venice, or catch a boat to Delos island. It’s also the Sea Bus stop connecting to the new port. If you’re traveling with kids, the open plaza and nearby benches make it a great pause point. Don’t forget to look up—Mykonos’ iconic white houses with blue shutters peek from above, offering the perfect island postcard view."
Ufuk Yüksekkaya
"Meh. Not a nightlife person so the endless things of shops in the daytime was just ok. Superlative was Gioras bakery and the Feel
Good Cafe. Those were the highlights of our day."
Greg McMurphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting Around Mykonos
From the cruise port, you can take a Sea Bus taxi, which is a convenient and affordable option to reach the Old Port (Chora). Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive. Buses are an option for reaching specific beaches like Elia, but routes and ticketing might require some planning.
Yes, the main areas like the Old Port, Little Venice, and the windmills are easily walkable. For beaches and other villages, local buses and taxis are available. Renting an ATV or scooter is also a popular choice for exploring.
Local buses are a cost-effective way to reach popular beaches like Platis Gialos and Paradise Beach. Taxis are readily available but more expensive.
Taxis are available, especially in Mykonos Town and at the port, but they can be quite expensive. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Absolutely! The Old Port, Little Venice, and the windmills are all within walking distance of each other in Mykonos Town (Chora). It's a great way to explore the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Port (Gialos) and Little Venice are public areas and do not require tickets for entry. You can explore them freely.
The iconic windmills on the hilltop are accessible from the outside and do not have an entrance fee. You can walk around them and enjoy the views.
Shops and restaurants in the Old Port generally operate from morning until late at night, especially during the peak season. Hours can vary, but most stay open well into the evening.
Yes, boat tours to the archaeological island of Delos depart regularly from the Old Port. It's a highly recommended historical excursion.
For popular sunset bars, especially in Little Venice, reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak season, to secure a good spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The Old Port itself, with its charming boats and waterfront cafes, is a prime photo spot. Little Venice offers colorful buildings against the sea, and the windmills provide a classic Mykonos backdrop.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset offers beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the whitewashed buildings reflect light well.
Don't miss capturing the iconic windmills, the vibrant waterfront of Little Venice, and the narrow, winding streets of Chora. The contrast of white buildings with blue accents is a signature look.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the charming streets and coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots of the windmills.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones are excellent for capturing the beauty of Mykonos. Focus on composition and lighting for stunning shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try traditional Greek dishes like gyros (souvlaki story, Jimmy's, and Metropolitan are recommended spots ), fresh seafood, and local cheeses. Enjoying a coffee or gelato at a waterfront cafe is also a treat.
The Old Port is lined with charming tavernas, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of Greek and international cuisine. Many have outdoor seating perfect for people-watching.
Dining in Mykonos can be expensive, especially in popular areas like the Old Port and Little Venice. Expect higher prices for meals and drinks compared to mainland Greece.
Look for souvlaki stands and smaller tavernas away from the main tourist hubs for more affordable meals. Gioras Bakery and Feel Good Cafe were highlighted as good options.
Mykonos is famous for its nightlife. The Old Port area has many bars, and beach clubs on the southern coast are popular for parties. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that Mykonos can be expensive, so budgeting for family-friendly dining options is important. Look for casual eateries and bakeries for more affordable meals.
💸 Budget Travelers
Utilize the local bus system for transportation to beaches and other areas, as it's more economical than taxis.
+1 Be prepared for higher prices for almost everything, and adjust your expectations accordingly. 🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the waterfront bars in Little Venice, or take a leisurely stroll through the charming, illuminated streets of Chora. Consider a sunset boat trip or a visit to a more secluded beach for a private experience. The island's beauty, combined with its vibrant yet intimate atmosphere, makes it ideal for couples seeking both relaxation and a touch of excitement.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Mykonos Town (Chora)
+2Visitors can spend hours simply wandering, discovering hidden squares, and admiring the iconic white houses with blue shutters. The Old Port itself is a bustling marina, where fishing boats bob alongside luxury yachts, creating a unique contrast. Street musicians often add to the ambiance, and the waterfront is lined with cafes and tavernas perfect for enjoying a coffee or a meal while watching the world go by.
From the Old Port, key attractions like Little Venice and the historic windmills are easily accessible on foot. It's also the departure point for boat trips to the ancient island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area transforms at night, with lights reflecting on the water and a romantic, lively buzz emanating from the bars and restaurants.
+1Mykonos on a Budget: Reality Check
Some visitors have expressed that Mykonos can feel like a 'tourist trap' if not approached with the right expectations or budget.
Despite the cost, many still find Mykonos to be 'all worth it' due to its unique charm, beautiful scenery, and lively energy.
Exploring Mykonos' Iconic Landmarks
+1Little Venice is another iconic spot, characterized by its colorful buildings with balconies that hang precariously over the water's edge. This picturesque area, once a hub for pirates and merchants, is now home to trendy bars and restaurants, making it a prime location for enjoying a drink and watching the waves.
+2Beyond these, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani is a unique architectural marvel, a complex of five chapels built over centuries, showcasing a distinctive whitewashed, almost sculptural form. Wandering through the narrow, winding streets of Chora (Mykonos Town) is an experience in itself, with every corner revealing a postcard-perfect scene of whitewashed houses and vibrant flowers.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit