Where to Stay in Mykonos, Greece: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Wondering where to stay in Mykonos? You’re in the right place.

Mykonos might be a small island, but choosing the right place to stay makes a big difference! Some areas put you right in the middle of the nightlife and winding streets of Mykonos Town, while others are all about beach clubs or quiet sea views. And with narrow roads and limited taxis to contend with, making a decision can feel a bit overwhelming at first!

To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the four best areas to stay in Mykonos, plus hotel picks for different budgets. Keep on reading to find the perfect base for your trip!

Where to Stay in Mykonos Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Mykonos 

Mykonos is best thought of as a collection of mini-bases, each with its own vibe. Where you stay really shapes your trip, whether that’s close to the nightlife in Mykonos Town or tucked away somewhere a bit quieter—yes, believe it or not, these spots do exist! 

Mykonos is not an island where you casually stroll between areas because beaches and hotels are pretty spread out, and the roads are narrow. Most visitors rely on the public buses that run between Mykonos Town and the popular south-coast beaches, plus seasonal boat shuttles that connect a few beaches during the summer.

Taxis are limited and can get pricey, especially at night, so it helps to plan evenings and transfers ahead of time. Many travellers rent an ATV, a scooter, or a small car for more flexibility. Parking around Mykonos Town can be a headache in peak season, which is definitely an argument to go down the scooter route if you’re able to! 

Finally, it’s important to note that Mykonos also sells out quickly in summer. It’s worth booking 6–9 months ahead for July and August, and around 3–5 months ahead for June and September to get the best choice and prices.

• Mykonos Town (Chora) – Best for first-time visitors – This area puts you right in the middle of the action, making it an easy base for getting to know the island. You’ll have top nightlife, restaurants, and iconic sights just steps away, and Aeolos Resort is our favorite mid-range option nearby.

• Ornos – Best for families – This area has a relaxed, beachy atmosphere that suits travelers visiting with kids, thanks to its calm shoreline and easy transport into Mykonos Town. Adorno Beach Hotel and Suites is a solid choice here, offering a comfortable, easygoing stay close to the beach.

• Platis Gialos – Best for beach hopping and resorts – This area is ideal for travelers who want easy access to multiple beaches and a strong mix of resort-style stays. Boat taxis run regularly from here, making it simple to explore nearby coves, and Argo Hotel stands out for its excellent value for money.

• Elia Beach – Best for quiet stays – If you’re seeking a quiet stay with scenic views, you’ll love Elia Beach because it’s removed from the island’s infamous party scene. Cova Mykonos Suites is all about chilling out and enjoying prime beachfront real estate!

Where to Stay in Mykonos

Mykonos Town (Chora) 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Walkable area with streets packed full of bars, restaurants, and boutiques 
• Easy access to buses and ferries
• Convenient base for exploring the island’s main sights

Cons

• Can be noisy and crowded, especially in summer
• Limited parking
• Higher accommodation prices 

Mykonos Town, also known as Chora, is the heart of the island and the best base for first-time visitors who want to experience Mykonos at its liveliest. This is where you’ll find the iconic whitewashed lanes and blue-domed chapels that make Mykonos so photogenic, and sunsets here are nothing short of epic. 

Staying here puts you within walking distance of Little Venice, the famous windmills, and the Old Port, not to mention the island’s best nightlife. This includes countless cafes and bars, as well as tons of beach clubs that buzz all day and night long.

Chora is also the main transport hub on the island, with regular buses running to the popular south-coast beaches like Ornos, Platis Gialos, and Paradise Beach. Meanwhile, ferries and boat tours depart from the nearby ports, so the whole of Mykonos is basically your oyster from here, and it’s easy to island-hop. And if you plan on going out at night, staying in town makes life much easier since you can walk back to your hotel instead of relying on taxis or late-night transport.

That said, Mykonos Town is very busy, especially from June to September, and accommodation prices reflect that demand. Still, if you’re looking for sightseeing or nightlife, then we think it’s worth paying a little extra to be close to it all.

Semeli Hotel – $$$ 

Semeli Hotel is a stylish, high-end option right in Mykonos Town. It’s perfect if you want luxury without being far from the action! The hotel blends traditional Cycladic architecture with a modern, boutique feel, and it’s just a short walk from Little Venice and the town’s main nightlife spots. 

The rooms here are sleek and spacious, and many have private balconies with views of the sea or the town. There’s also a spa, a gym, and an on-site restaurant and bar, so you can easily mix downtime with nights out. It’s a great choice for couples or friends who want a polished stay in a central location.

Rooms here start at around €350 per night during peak season.

Book your stay at Semeli Hotel here!

If Semeli is fully booked, Bill&Coo is another top luxury option in Mykonos Town, known for its stunning views and romantic vibe. Alternatively, The TownHouse is a chic boutique hotel in the center of town with a more intimate vibe.

Aeolos Resort – $$ 

Aeolos Resort is a fantastic mid-range option just outside Mykonos Town. It offers a quieter setting while still being within easy reach of the center. It’s perched on a hill with lovely sea views, and there’s a free shuttle into town, so getting around is super easy.

Plus, with a nice pool, modern decor, and a spacious, airy vibe, we think that it strikes an excellent balance between value for money, comfort, and location. Rates typically start at €275 during peak season.

Don’t miss out—check availability and book your stay here!

If Aeolos is all booked up, Vencia Boutique Hotel is another great choice with panoramic views and a stylish pool area. Hotel Alkyon is also worth a look, especially if you want a central location with sea views at a slightly more affordable price point.

Damianos Mykonos Hotel – $

Damianos Mykonos Hotel is a great budget-friendly option just outside Mykonos Town. We think it’s ideal if you want to save on accommodation but still be close to the action. It’s located on a hill above the town, so you get lovely sea views and a bit of distance from the late-night noise. 

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and there’s a small pool with loungers where you can relax after a day exploring. With easy access to town on foot or by taxi, it’s a solid pick for budget travellers!  Rates here typically start from around €150 per night, making it one of the more affordable places to stay near Mykonos Town.

Secure your budget-friendly stay in Mykonos Town here!

If Damianos is fully booked, Mykonos View Hotel is another good-value option with similar views and a relaxed vibe.  Sofia Village is also worth considering if you want a simple, budget-friendly stay within walking distance of the center.

Ornos

BEST FOR FAMILIES

Pros

• Calm, sheltered beach 
• Lots of family-friendly restaurants 
• Plenty of transport options to Mykonos Town

Cons

• Less shopping and nightlife than in Mykonos Town 
• Prices can still be high in peak season, especially for beachfront hotels

Ornos is one of the best areas to stay in Mykonos for family vacations! It’s our top pick if you’re traveling with kids or just want a more relaxed beach base—after all, not everyone wants to party all the time. 

For us, the main draw of Ornos is the beach. It’s sheltered with calm, shallow water, which is safe for swimming. There are plenty of beachfront cafes here and a handful of casual beach clubs, but the atmosphere is decidedly more chilled than the party-heavy beaches further along the southeast. It feels lively during the day but quieter in the evenings, which many travellers appreciate.

It’s also very well connected. Regular buses run between Ornos and Mykonos Town, and the journey only takes around 10 minutes. Meanwhile, water taxis frequently depart from the beach to nearby spots like Psarou and Platis Gialos. This makes it easy to explore the island without needing to drive, although having a scooter or small car can still be handy for day trips and exploring more remote beaches.

Overall, Ornos is a great choice if you want beach access, convenience, and a quieter place to come back to at night. 

Aeonic Suites and Spa – $$$ 

Aeonic Suites and Spa is a luxurious, design-forward hotel just steps from Ornos Beach. It’s a great choice if you want a high-end stay with a relaxed, beachy vibe, while still being close to Mykonos Town. The suites are modern and spacious, many with private pools or terraces, and the whole property has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that feels very Mykonos.

There’s a beautiful pool area, a spa, and an on-site restaurant and bar, so you can easily spend your days lounging and your evenings enjoying a stylish dinner or cocktail. It delivers five-star luxury by the beach without being too far from the island’s nightlife. Rooms here typically start at around €450 per night during peak season.

Search room options and book your stay here!

If Aeonic is fully booked, Kove Mykonos is another gorgeous luxury option in Ornos with a calm, boutique vibe and lovely sea views.  Kivotos Mykonos is also worth considering if you want a more resort-style stay with direct beach access and plenty of amenities.

Adorno Beach Hotel and Suites – $$

Adorno Beach Hotel and Suites is a lovely mid-range option right on Ornos Beach. It’s a great pick for families or anyone who wants an easy beach-focused stay. The hotel has a relaxed, modern feel, with bright rooms and suites that work well for couples or small groups. Best of all, it’s beachfront, which means that you can step straight onto the sand and stroll over to the plethora of restaurants and cafes nearby.

There’s a pool, a restaurant, and a beach club area with sun loungers, so it’s easy to split your time between the beach and the hotel. With buses and taxis to Mykonos Town nearby, it’s also convenient if you want to head into town for sightseeing or nightlife. Rooms here usually start at around €300 per night during peak season.

Book your stay right on Ornos Beach here!

If Adorno is all booked up, Aelia Mykonos is another great option with a calm, boutique vibe near the beach. Deliades Hotel is also worth a look if you want good value for money and easy access to Ornos Beach and Mykonos Town.

Erato Hotel Mykonos – $ 

Erato Hotel Mykonos is a relaxed beach base that won’t cost the earth. How great is that? And this place doesn’t feel super “budget”—we really like the modern beachy decor, as it really does give off those classic holiday vibes. We also just love that it has those classic blue shutters, and the super-friendly hosts truly exemplify the meaning of Greek hospitality. 

Best of all, this place is just steps away from the beach! There are also tons of restaurants nearby, so staying here puts you close to everything without paying beachfront prices. Rooms start at around €250 per night during the busy season.

Check prices and book your stay here!

If Erato is fully booked, Corfos Hotel is another affordable option near Ornos Beach with a laid-back vibe and a small pool. Mykonos Cactus is also worth considering if you want a budget-friendly stay with easy access to both the beach and Mykonos Town.

Platis Gialos 

BEST FOR BEACH HOPPING & RESORTS

Pros

• Great base for beach hopping, with boat taxis to nearby beaches
• Lots of resorts, beach clubs, and restaurants

Cons

• More resort-style and less traditional than Mykonos Town
• Busy and pricey in peak summer

Platis Gialos is one of the best areas to stay in Mykonos if your main goal is beach time! This area has a wide, sandy beach that’s lined with resorts and beach clubs, so all of the fun stuff is right on your doorstep. This isn’t an intensely “party” area, but there’s definitely an upbeat, social vibe. It’s a bit of a Goldilocks area for those who want to enjoy a lively beach atmosphere but don’t want to dance to house music until 4 am—we loved it! 

One of the biggest perks of staying in Platis Gialos is the boat taxi service, which connects you to nearby beaches like Psarou, Paradise, and Paraga. It’s also well connected by bus, with regular services to Mykonos Town, making it super easy to mix beach days with sightseeing and nightlife. All you’ll need to do is show up and enjoy!

Platis Gialos feels more purpose-built for tourism than some other parts of the island, but that’s part of its appeal. It’s ideal if you want a resort-style stay and beach clubs within walking distance. Plus, the easy transport to the beaches and Mykonos Town means there’s no need to rent a car! 

Palladium Hotel – $$$

Palladium Hotel is a stylish luxury hotel in Platis Gialos, offering spacious, elegant suites and easy beach access. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegant, and many of them boast sea views or private outdoor areas. There’s a large pool, a spa, and an on-site restaurant and bar, so you can easily spend full days at the hotel without needing to go far.

The overall vibe here is polished but relaxed, and definitely not stuffy. We think that this is a great choice for couples or friends who want a luxury beach stay with plenty of amenities, plus easy transport into Mykonos Town by bus or water taxi. Rooms here usually start at around €400 per night during peak season.

Book your Platis Gialos luxury stay at Palladium Hotel here!

If Palladium is fully booked, Nissaki Boutique Hotel is another gorgeous luxury option with panoramic sea views and a sleek, modern feel. Mykonos Dove Beachfront Hotel is also worth a look if you want a boutique-style stay right by the beach.

Argo Hotel – $$

Argo Hotel is an excellent mid-range option just steps from Platis Gialos Beach. We think it offers great value for money in a prime location, as well as several small pools, a spa, and a restaurant. What more could you need?

We love the traditional style of this property, and having the beach and boat taxis right outside, it makes it so easy to explore Mykonos! Plus, the modern rooms look very inviting and (dare I say it?) Pinterest-worthy. Rates typically start at around €250 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Argo is all booked up, Petinos Hotel is another popular mid-range choice in Platis Gialos with a friendly vibe, or Acrogiali Beachfront Hotel is a great option if you want to be right on the sand.

Kamari Hotel – $

Kamari Hotel is a great budget-friendly hotel in Platis Gialos. We think it’s perfect if you want to be close to the beach without spending a fortune! The rooms are simple and comfortable, and the hotel has a nice pool area where you can unwind after a day of beach hopping.

It’s a short walk to Platis Gialos Beach and the boat taxi dock, so you still get an excellent location at a lower price point. Rooms here usually start at around €140 per night during peak season.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

If Kamari is fully booked, Artemoula’s Studios is another affordable option near the beach with a relaxed, homey feel. Almyra Guest Houses is also worth considering if you want a budget-friendly stay with easy access to Platis Gialos and nearby beaches.

Elia Beach

BEST FOR QUIET STAYS

Pros

• Peaceful setting with beautiful sea views and fewer crowds
• Low-key resorts and beach clubs to enjoy
  

Cons

• Further from Mykonos Town, so getting around takes more planning
• Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared to other areas 

Elia Beach is one of the quietest and most scenic areas in Mykonos. If you’re dreaming about beach days and plenty of rest and relaxation, this is the place to be! 

The beach here is long and sandy, with clear water, sun loungers, and a handful of relaxed beach clubs and restaurants. But don’t worry—when we say “beach club”, we don’t mean international DJs and packed dancefloors. The beach clubs here are more about chilling out and enjoying yummy food and drink by the sea. We can definitely get on board with that! 

Elia is located on the eastern side of the island, around a 25-30 minute drive from Mykonos Town. There are buses and taxis, but services are less frequent than in Ornos or Platis Gialos. We’d definitely recommend renting a scooter or even a small car if you want more flexibility. 

With that said, many hotels here are resort-style, so you can easily spend most of your time on-site. All in all, if you’re looking for a scenic stay that’s all about recharging your batteries, we think that Elia Beach is a fantastic choice. 

Arte & Mare Elia Luxury Suites and Villas – $$$

Arte & Mare Elia Luxury Suites and Villas is a beautiful luxury option right on Elia Beach. It’s a peaceful, high-end stay with direct beach access. The suites and villas are spacious and elegant, and many of them boast private pools, terraces, and sea views—ooh la la! 

There’s a large pool, a spa, and an on-site restaurant and beach club, so you can easily spend your days relaxing without leaving the hotel. We think it’s an especially great choice for couples and honeymooners, as this has to be one of Mykonos’ most romantic properties. Rooms here typically start at around €450 per night during peak season.

Book this luxurious stay right on Elia Beach here!

If Arte & Mare is fully booked, Greco Philia Hotel Boutique is another gorgeous luxury option with panoramic views and a boutique feel. Alternatively, Myconian Sunrise Relais & Chateaux Hotel is also worth a look if you want a polished resort stay with excellent service and facilities.

Cova Mykonos Suites – $$

Cova Mykonos Suites is a great option in Elia if you want a laid-back beachfront stay with those dreamy sea views, without the resort-level price tag. It’s an aparthotel-style setup, so it feels a little more spacious and relaxed, and many of the suites come with balconies where you can soak up the view (and that salty ocean breeze!).

For us, the standout here is the direct beach access paired with a pool that looks out over the water, basically the best of both worlds when you’re deciding between sand time and pool time. There’s also a sun terrace, a lush garden, and handy extras like a fitness center, beauty services, and a tour desk to help you plan your days.

Plus, Elia Beach is just a short walk away, and you’ve got easy access to Mykonos Town’s classic spots like Little Venice and the windmills. Rooms usually start from around €250 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Cova Mykonos Suites is all booked up, Senses Luxury Suites & Villas is a great alternative with stylish suites and private pools in a similar price range.

Niriides Homes & Villas – $

We think that Niriides Homes & Villas is a fantastic budget-friendly option in Elia because it offers a peaceful stay with plenty of space. These self-catering apartments and villas are ideal for families, groups, or travellers who prefer having a kitchen and more privacy.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many units have terraces or balconies with lovely sea views. The property is set on a hillside above Elia Beach, so you get a quiet, relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds.

It’s a short drive down to the beach and nearby restaurants, and having a scooter or car is helpful here, especially if you plan to explore other parts of the island. Rates typically start at around €180 per night during peak season, which is excellent value for this part of Mykonos.

Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!

Related Read: Planning your days next? Check out our 2-day Mykonos itinerary for a perfectly paced plan that covers the highlights, beaches, and best experiences on the island.

Top Activities to do in Mykonos

Now that you’ve picked the perfect place to stay, it’s time to start planning what to do! Mykonos has no shortage of unforgettable experiences, so we’re sharing the activities we loved most. These are our personal favorite tours and experiences, and you can easily book them yourself.

• Explore Mykonos on an island tour – This small-group tour is the easiest way to see Mykonos without stressing over logistics. With a mix of walking and driving, we covered Mykonos Town, the windmills, Little Venice, Agrari Beach, and Ano Mera, all while learning island history from an incredible guide.

• Sail the Aegean on a small-group catamaran – For a laid-back but unforgettable day, this catamaran cruise is a winner. With snorkeling, paddleboarding, sea scooters, a freshly cooked seafood lunch, and endless drinks, it’s all about enjoying Mykonos from the water at a relaxed pace.

• Cruise to Delos and Rhenia by yacht – This full-day yacht cruise combines ancient history with total relaxation. We explored the ruins of Delos, swam in the unreal waters of Rhenia, and enjoyed a BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks. It’s the perfect balance of sightseeing and chill time on the water.

• Try scuba diving for the first time – If you’ve ever been curious about diving, this beginner-friendly scuba experience at Lia Reef is ideal. With a patient instructor and small groups, we felt totally safe while exploring reefs, spotting fish, and even seeing an octopus underwater.

• Cook traditional Greek dishes at Mykonian Spiti – This cooking class felt more like being welcomed into a local home than taking a lesson. We learned how to make classic Greek dishes, shared stories over wine, and enjoyed one of the most authentic cultural experiences we had in Mykonos.

Related Read: Want a deeper dive into planning your trip? Check out our detailed guide to the best things to do in Mykonos, where we break down must-see sights, top tours, beaches, and local tips to help you make the most of your time on the island.

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Planning a Mykonos trip should feel exciting, not overwhelming, and choosing the right place to stay is a huge part of that. We hope this guide helped you narrow down the best area and hotel for your travel style, so you can focus on enjoying beach days, sunsets, and everything that makes Mykonos so special. Just keep in mind that the best hotels here tend to book out well in advance—especially in summer—so locking things in early can make a big difference.

If you’re looking for more help planning your trip, we’ve got plenty of other Greece guides with itineraries and travel tips to help you plan an unforgettable getaway. Or have a look at some of our most popular blogs below for even more inspiration. Happy travels!

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