Mykonos is known for its dry, windy climate, sandy beaches and world famous nightlife! While being on the island, you should definitely visit Chora, also called «Mykonos Town.» Located in the middle of the western shore, the walkable town is home to some of the island’s best 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; considering the small streets and slippery stone-paved alleys, I recommend flats or wedges.
From our hotel, the Santa Marina, the driver took us to the Belvedere Hotel, from there, we walked down the hill to the marble quays of the Old Harbour, where we started our exploration tour. The sunset started and the scenery was breathtaking. On the east side are the arcades of the Town Hall dating to the 1700s, in front of which is the tiny church of Agios Nikolaos, crowned with a blue dome.
There’s a string of bars and restaurants hugging the curve of the harbour, among them Jackie O’ – a must-visit bar. It is located just below Paraportiani church and is an ideal location for sunset cocktails and dancing all night long. Drag shows also take place, adding a spicy and fun note.
Leave your phone in your hand as around every corner, you will find another instagrammable spot. The most unique area in Mykonos Town is known as Little Venice. Small picturesque waterfront Cycladic houses with colorful, wooden balconies are kissed by the waves of Aegean, creating a photogenic seascape with a romantic atmosphere. Some of the restaurants and bars including Negrita have ideal locations in front of the sea which makes them the perfect spots to enjoy the sunset with a glass of champagne or a fancy cocktail. From this area you also get a great view of one of the most iconic spots of Mykonos, the famous windmills. They are considered the signature landmark of the island and are a truly wonderful sight.
After our sunset drinks in Little Venice, we went for a stroll through the heart of town, which is known by locals and tourists to be Matoyianni Street, the main street of a complex of pebbled streets in Chora. It is dominated by designer stores (you will find all big names here, from Hublot, Dior to Off-White and all sorts of concept stores), souvenir shops, and handmade jewelry designers.
During the summer months, most of Matoyianni’s shops and markets are open until 2 am, and you’ll never be short of things to do throughout the evening hours. If you investigate the side streets you’ll come across so many amazing little shops, shoulder to shoulder with quaint little churches like Agia Eleni and Agios Kirykos.
Dinner we had booked at La Maison de Katrin Restaurant, which instantly has become one of my favorite spots in Mykonos! The intense color of the bougainvillea above it is really mesmerizing and makes it a wonderful photo opportunity (best in the morning, when the restaurant is closed). Since 1971 until today, Katrin marries traditional Greek recipes with French gourmet cooking, warm hospitality with elegant surroundings. The moussaka is absolutely divine!
I ran into German-Greek singer Vicky Leandros that night, who is very famous in my home country Germany.
After dinner, we went for drinks to another fun place in the city, Interni Restaurant & Bar. Set in a secret garden in Matoyiannia, it is the synonym of the modern night culture à la Mykonos. A fun place where you can dance and enjoy great music outdoors.
Mykonos Town or Chora is definitely the heart of this majestic island – and with its fairytale environment not to be missed!
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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The sea urchins are taken fresh from the natural pool inside the restaurant.
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