Sightseeing in Mykonos Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Mykonos is the scenic Greek island. It's widely known as the beach resort center and a focus of many unique Antique landmarks. The island is very famous due to its night clubs, thus, the most of its visitors are young tourists. However, Mykonos has way more to offer than just nightlife. Exploration of island's landmarks can become an exciting adventure.

Old windmills situated around the capital represent one of the Mykonos symbols. Travelers going to stay in this area for longer have to consider that one of the mills was turned into a hotel. Among religious landmarks, the Holy Mother Paraportiani church is notable. This wonderful snow-white building built in very unusual style has survived until this day only partially. It's worth mentioning that this religious landmark is the distinctive feature of Mykonos. Locals say that there are 365 churches and cathedrals on the island, as much as days in the year. It's almost impossible to make exact count of religious landmarks of various ages. Yet you can find them in nearly every small settlement of the island. St.Nicholas and St. Helena churches, as well as Hall Sunday church are among the most beautiful religious landmarks of Mykonos.

Virgin Mary monastery is the popular site of many excursions. It houses a vast collection of priceless religious and arts artifacts matching the biggest world's museums. There are unique Byzantine Empire icons, religious attributes and relics brought to the monastery from all over the world. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Panagria Tourliani monastery is the very symbolic landmark. Named after island's holy patroness, it’s located in Ano Mera village situated in the very center of Mykonos. Its distinctive feature is rich inner decoration, including huge icons with New Testament scenes, amazing wooden iconostasis and noble metals enrichment. You can watch these treasures for hours.

There's also a number of interesting museums on the island. Archeological museum is one of the most popular among them. It's located near Mykonos port area and houses an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, vessels and religious artifacts. The collection is being updated regularly; some of objects are few thousand years old. Another interesting site is the Folklore museum. It introduces cultural traditions of locals to curious tourists. National costumes, musical instruments, antique furniture, art and everyday object are among its treasures.

Agricultural museum is a huge open air complex. There's even an old windmill at the area. Farming was always among the most important crafts of islanders, so museum can boast a collection of ancient tools and instruments. Some of them are completely unknown to foreigners. Among architectural landmarks, the beautiful Lena House mansion built in 19th century is notable. It has managed to keep its original interior. The mansion houses a priceless collection of antique furniture and arts open for public.

Mykonos is famous for its excellent beaches, many of which have become famous far beyond the borders of the island. It is particularly important to mention Paradise Beach that is considered a nudist one. In recent years, numerous cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs appeared in this part of the island. When it is getting dark, loud parties begin on Paradise. Some time ago, large screens that broadcast MTV appeared on the beach, so in the evening the coastline resembles a giant open-air disco.

Young tourists also enjoy relaxing on Paraga Beach. It is a large sandy beach suitable for different travelers. The southern part of the beach is calm and is almost always not crowded, while the northern part of the beach has a more developed infrastructure. During the peak season, loud and energetic parties are typical for this beach. Platis Gialos is the most developed and prestigious beach of the region. There are several high-class hotels and restaurants near it. This beach is suitable for travelers who prefer the most comfortable are interesting places. Vacationers are welcome to try different types of entertainment, from sports competitions to unusual and interesting diving safaris.