The 'Real Attraction' Of Visiting Mykonos, Greece, According To Rick Steves

Think of Greece, and a few iconic images likely come to mind: ancient gods and the temples built in their honor, whitewashed island villages crowned with impossibly blue domes, Mediterranean diets turned into global trends, and a legacy of athletic prowess that still defines the nation. Arguably the most famous island in the Aegean Sea, the alluring Greek isle of Mykonos, welcomes nearly 3 million visitors a year to its famed shores. Yet, despite its Instagram-perfect appearance, many travelers leave Mykonos feeling disappointed, a result of its inflated prices, overcrowded attractions, and unmet expectations. Still, according to European travel guru Rick Steves, there are "few places where getting lost is so enjoyable."

While many flock to Mykonos for its golden beaches, glamorous nightlife, and alluring landscapes, Steves boldly claims the "real attraction here is poking around the streets: shopping, dining, clubbing, or — best of all — simply strolling," with the early-morning hours being the most optimal time to explore to avoid peak crowds. Thanks to its international airport, flying directly into Mykonos is the most efficient way to enjoy the island's winding, maze-like streets, traditional Mediterranean cuisine, and remarkably charming beaches.

As Rick Steves mentions, you'll find numerous restaurants in Mykonos just by exploring and getting lost. From local haunts and hole-in-the-wall eateries to upscale dining experiences, Mykonos Town offers something for every palate and budget. For authentic Greek gyros and pitas at affordable prices, Pepper Mykonos, just a 10-minute walk from Mykonos' Old Pier, is praised for its great flavors and fast service, as evidenced by its more than 1,500 five-star reviews on Tripadvisor. Another Tripadvisor award winner, Local is a favorite haunt for those seeking authentic Greek street food away from the crowded congestion of the coast.

Noa, also a 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award winner, highlights the very best of all that the Greek islands have to offer. The taverna focuses on local, fresh, farm-to-table ingredients and traditional Mediterranean flavors set against sweeping, breathtaking views of the rolling hills and sun-kissed coastline that frame the Aegean Sea. Another upscale gem, Karavaki Restaurant, is highly rated and the recipient of multiple awards, including Tripadvisor's Best of the Best distinction. It's open seasonally and offers burrata, seafood, and top-notch ribeye.

For an immersive glimpse of Mykonos that is more removed from the daily influx of cruise ship tourists, trade the bustle of the harbor for the serene, hillside charm of Ano Mera. Set amid the region's rolling hills, Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm invites visitors of all ages to stroll its vineyards and olive groves, savor local wines and homemade delicacies, and take guided bike tours through the island's tranquil interior.

While Rick Steves praises the appeal of spending endless hours wandering through Mykonos' maze-like town, he also highlights the importance of relaxing beachside. While most Greek beaches have their fair share of topless sunbathers, more family-friendly beaches, like Ornos and Agios Stefanos, are also home to calm waters and endless stretches of pristine sand perfect for building castles or simply sunbathing. Agios Ioannis is a secluded beach that Steves describes as giving the "feeling of being on a castaway isle," while TV personality Samantha Brown prefers the quiet sands of Agios Sostis Beach.

Paradise Beach is a long-time favorite among visitors and serves as a haven for water sports and activities during the day, with an intoxicating party atmosphere that fills the area as the sun sets. When the music fades and the crowds swell, the stunning waters around Mykonos offer tempting island escapes that are easily accessible by ferry. Nearby Naxos is home to ancient Greek ruins, stunning beaches, and a relaxing reprieve, perfect for families and those seeking a quieter holiday escape. For a break from Mykonos' inflated prices and crowds, head to Folegandros. With more budget-friendly hotels and dining options, this gorgeous island is a unique mix of musical festivals, charming villages, and remote cultural sites, just 53 nautical miles from Mykonos' overcrowded shores.

For a true breather from Mykonos' tourist-centric atmosphere, venture to nearby Delos. Just a 30-minute boat ride from Mykonos, enchanted Delos is teeming with mythological and historical Greek significance. Rumored to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, ancient Delos was a pilgrimage site for those seeking the birthplace of light, with modern-day visitors flocking to this uninhabited island for the millennia-old ruins, humble Greek museum, mighty Naxian Lions, and golden-sand beaches.