Mykonos, Greece/October 28

Thanks to its proximity to the mainland, Mykonos was one of the first Greek islands to become an international travel destination. During the late '60s and early '70s, Mykonos was famed as a haunt for the rich. The island's nightlife - then and now - was a glittering whirl of colored lights, music, and parties. But there's another side to Mykonos - the neighboring island of Delos. In classical mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Travelers to Delos can stroll among the island's vast ruins, which include three temples consecrated to the Sun God and the famed Lions Walk.

Mykonos town features hip boutiques, restaurants, jewelry stores, souvenirs, taverns and cafés. The island's famed windmills are found just south of the waterfront




We decided on this tour because it included time at a beach. We want to be able to put our feet into the waters of the Mediterranean.

Tour Overview

Board your motorcoach for a scenic drive through the rocky countryside en route to one of the most beautiful beaches on the island's south-west coast, Agios Ioannis, home to soft sand, crystalline blue waters and an amazing view of the island of Delos - the historic Archaeological site and reputed birthplace of the twin Gods, Apollo and Artemis.

Then, continue your drive to the charming village of Ano Mera at the center of the island, home to the lovely Panagia Tourliani Monastery. Originally built in 1542 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, its impressive architecture, whitewashed exterior and colored dome have long charmed visitors from around the world.

A beautiful marble fountain sits in front of the church, and its interior houses an impressive wooden iconostasis (altar screen), made in 1775 by Florentine artists. Note the hanging incense holders that line the wall: they're decorated with silver dragons holding red eggs in their mouths, evidence of Eastern influences.

A welcome respite in your day is a stop at Kalafatis Beach, where the deep blue Aegean Sea and golden sand beckon you for a short stroll in the sunshine. Refreshments are available for purchase from local vendors.

Return to Mykonos for your guided walking tour; passengers who do not wish to continue may return to the ship.

Mykonos is a picturesque town with a labyrinth-like maze of tiny streets, white houses and red-roofed churches. Don't be fooled by its small size; it is one of the most cosmopolitan towns of the Aegean. But despite the many shops, boutiques and stylish cafes, the town has not lost its charm and the island's strict building regulations have kept its Cycladic architectural style beautifully intact. Your guided, walking tour through the narrow, winding streets introduces you to some of the area's most treasured landmarks.

Look up and you'll find windmills dotting the landscape. Although no longer operational, they hearken back to the days when the area was once an agricultural powerhouse.

You'll want to have your camera ready to photograph Little Venice, famous for its narrow rows of brightly colored homes that literally sit in the sea. A timeless subject for artists, Little Venice is considered one of the most romantic spots in the Greek Isles.

No tour of Mykonos would be complete without the opportunity to see Paraportiani Church. A true Byzantine jewel, the island's most famous church sits just outside the city walls. Paraportiani is actually five churches, four comprise its base and the fifth is built as the dome on the top. Widely photographed, you won't want to miss the opportunity to capture it with your own lens.

At the completion of your tour, you are welcome to continue sightseeing on your own. As you walk through the streets, don't be surprised if Petros the Pelican, the island's mascot, pops out to say hello

aterfront.