One Day in Mykonos, Greece (Cruise Port Guide)

Planning to spend one day in Mykonos during your Greek Island cruise? Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, stroll through whitewashed alleys, or squeeze in a beachside cocktail (or three), this guide will help you make the most of your stop.

With just a few hours on the island, you don’t have time to wing it. From exploring the iconic windmills of Hora to riding a water taxi to Paradise Beach, we’ll walk you through exactly how to structure your day: no stress, no FOMO.

Mykonos is often called the Island of the Winds, and it’s one of Greece’s most popular destinations for good reason. It’s glitzy, breezy, and surprisingly easy to navigate if you’ve got a game plan, and now, you do.

Key Takeaways for One Day in Mykonos:

• 🏛️ Stick to Hora if you want to explore local shops, cafes, and landmarks without leaving the port area.
• 🛥️ Hop a water taxi from Ornos Beach to Paradise Beach – it’s scenic, easy, and worth the €.
• 🍹 Paradise Beach’s Tropicana Bar is tame during the day, but still lively enough for great people-watching and beach lounging.

Updated in June 2025

**Boozing Abroad contains affiliate links throughout the site. If you choose to purchase items through these links, we will earn a small commission at NO extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure policy here**

Hora aka Mykonos Port City

We woke up early and caught the first tender boat at 8 AM from our Royal Caribbean cruise, determined to make the most of our one day in Mykonos.

Being some of the first off the ship meant we had the rare pleasure of exploring a nearly empty Hora, also known as Mykonos Town, before the crowds rolled in. The quiet, morning light and empty alleyways felt like we’d stumbled onto a private island.

We started walking around, but calling it “walking around” doesn’t quite capture it. Hora isn’t built for linear thinkers. There are no street signs, no grid, no sense of direction. It’s a beautiful whitewashed maze that either spits you out at a dead-end or delivers you to a stoop covered in feral cats, which I (Samantha) obviously stopped to greet. Every. Single. One.

The Greek Islands are full of cats, and Mykonos is no exception. Most are friendly‑ish and used to tourists. I loved seeing them lounging around like they owned the place, because honestly, they kind of do.

Even with shops closed and the town still waking up, Hora had a quiet energy buzzing under the surface. Every twisty alley felt like it was about to lead somewhere magical. And somehow, even when we got completely turned around, it never felt frustrating, just fun.

💡Pro tip: Spend at least an hour getting lost in Hora. Don’t bother with a map: follow your feet, your curiosity, and maybe a few cats. You’ll stumble onto hidden chapels, sleepy cafés and postcard‑worthy views without even trying.

Windmills of Kato Mili

One of the top things to do in Mykonos, especially with just one day on the island, is to visit the famous Windmills of Kato Mili.

Getting there felt like a mini scavenger hunt. We took a few wrong turns, passed by several red-domed churches (yep, Mykonos = red domes, not blue like Santorini), and finally made it to a main road. Thankfully, that road led us straight to the windmills – officially known as Kato Mili, or Kato Myloi in Greek.

💡 TIP: Arrive early and you might just get a photo with zero people in the background – rare and magical.

These iconic 16th-century windmills line the edge of the sea with their white-washed bases, wooden sails, and straw rooftops. They’re incredibly photogenic, especially with the harbor behind you. Don’t forget to turn around: the view of the sea is just as beautiful as the windmills themselves.

After enjoying the quiet of sunrise and snapping a few must-have pics, we kept wandering through Hora’s beautifully confusing streets. Despite doing a decent amount of research beforehand, we still hadn’t decided which beach to visit-Mykonos has so many stunning ones, it’s almost impossible to choose.

We knew one thing for sure though: Paradise Beach was on our list. Home to the infamous Tropicana Beach Bar, it’s one of the island’s most iconic (and wild) party scenes, but still chill enough during the day if you’re not into dancing on tables at noon.

Still debating our plan, we popped into a souvenir shop and asked the local working there where we should go – with one requirement: there had to be a bar.

She didn’t hesitate. “Take the bus,” she said, pointing toward the nearby KTEL Mykonos bus stop. A few minutes later, we were on our way.

Ornos Beach & the Water Taxi Adventure

AAfter a quick 10-minute ride on the KTEL Mykonos bus, we arrived at Ornos Beach – often described as a more “family-friendly” option on the island.

And while that might technically be true, let’s just say… topless sunbathing isn’t reserved for adults-only beaches here. 😅 We walked about 50 yards down to the free section of sand and were immediately greeted by several locals working on their tan – tops optional, naturally.

We grabbed a couple of Alfa beers at Kuzina Mykonos a beachfront bar recommended to us by a local back in town. The vibe at Ornos is super laid-back- calm, crystal-clear water, soft sand, and a cozy cove that makes it feel more like a secret spot than a tourist destination.

💡 TIP: Ornos is one of the more under-the-radar beaches with a strong local crowd. It’s relaxing, low-key, and not overrun with cruise passengers.

After soaking in the sun (and the beers), we were ready for a little shade and a little more energy. Naturally, we asked the bartender what to do next. His suggestion? Take the water taxi to Paradise Beach and head straight for Tropicana Beach Bar.

So we wandered along the shoreline until we found the water taxi stand. No signs, no big kiosk, just a sandy little launch point with a handwritten sign and a line of sun-kissed travelers.

And let us tell you: if you’re unsure what to do in Mykonos, take the water taxi.

For just 7€ per person, we climbed aboard and started what became one of our favorite moments of the day – cruising along the coast of Mykonos, stopping at beach after beach along the way. You can read more about the scheduled departure times here.

We passed massive yachts (seriously, floating mansions), turquoise coves, and hidden stretches of sand that looked like they belonged in a catalog. It took just over an hour to reach Paradise Beach, but the ride was more than transportation – it was a mini tour of Mykonos by sea.

We spent most of the ride daydreaming about which luxury yacht we’d buy after winning the lottery. Until then, we were pretty content just soaking in the views and sea breeze.

💡 TIP: The water taxi connects several southern beaches like Ornos, Platis Gialos, Paraga, and Paradise. It’s an easy, affordable way to see more of the island without needing a rental car.

🚤 How to Take the Water Taxi in Mykonos

If you’re wondering how the water taxis work, it’s super simple:

• Where to catch it: The main departure points are Ornos Beach and Platis Gialos, with stops at Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, and more.
• How much it costs: Around 7–10€ per ride depending on how far you’re going.
• How to pay: Cash only, and you pay when you board – no booking ahead.
• When they run: Typically from 10:00 AM to early evening, with boats running every 30–60 minutes.

💡 TIP: Ask a nearby bartender or beach worker if you can’t find the launch point. They’ll point you in the right direction faster than Google Maps ever could.

Paradise Beach & Tropicana Bar

After a breezy ride on the water taxi, we arrived at Paradise Beach, home to the iconic Tropicana Beach Bar– one of the most famous party spots in all of Mykonos.

We grabbed a couple of Fix beers, ordered a pizza (when in doubt, carbs), and headed for the pillow-like loungers lining the beach. You can rent them by the hour or for the full day, and they come with full food and drink service right to your chair. Who needs a mega-yacht when you’ve got pizza and pillows?

While everything we’d read beforehand said that all beaches in Mykonos are topless, in reality, only about 10% of women actually were. Still, people-watching here is top-tier, and not just because of the topless tanning.

The beach itself is fantastic: clear turquoise water, soft sand, and a party atmosphere that slowly builds throughout the day. When we arrived, the only real sign of what was to come was the pile of empty bottles from the night before.

💡 TIP: The wild party at Tropicana doesn’t really kick off until late afternoon into the night, so if your cruise leaves early (like ours did), you’ll likely miss the DJ-fueled mayhem. Still, it’s a solid beach stop even without the crowd.

By around 2 PM, we wandered farther down the beach and passed a few more bars, all of which were leaning heavily into happy hour energy. One place lured us in with a buy one, get one free cocktail promo, and we went full chaos mode by ordering Kamikazes.

💡 TIP: The farther you walk from Tropicana, the cheaper the drinks. If you’re traveling Mykonos on a budget, keep strolling, you’ll find deals the farther you get from the main beach bar scene.

Even without the full-blown party, Paradise Beach lived up to the hype. Sun, shade, a few beers, and some questionable cocktails… it was a perfect mid-day escape that gave us just enough taste of Mykonos’ party reputation without missing our ship.

Quick Guide to Renting Loungers at Paradise Beach

• Cost: Expect to pay €30–€60 per day for two loungers and an umbrella, depending on how close you are to the water and which bar you’re at.
• By the hour: Some beach clubs offer hourly rates starting around €10–€15 which is perfect if you’re just staying for a bit.
• Included service: Most loungers include full drink and food service from the bar. Tip your server!
• Cash or card: Most accept credit cards, but bring some cash just in case, especially at smaller beach bars down the strip.
• Pro tip: Prices go up as the day goes on. Arrive early for the best spots and rates.

Psarou Beach – One Cove Over 🛥️🥂

If you’re not quite ready to let the party end, head just one cove over from Paradise Beach and you’ll find Psarou Beach, home to the bougie and beautiful Nammos Mykonos, one of the most exclusive (and expensive) beach clubs on the island.

This place is where designer swimwear meets champagne showers. While we didn’t make it there this time, if you’re looking for a luxury beach scene with all the glam, Psarou is the move.

💡 Want more details? Check out this full guide: Nammos Mykonos: The Ultimate Guide to a Killer Beach Club.

Bus Back to Hora 🚌🌅

Feeling a little fuzzy from Kamikazes and sun exposure, we wandered back to the bus stop near Paradise Beach to catch a ride back to Hora.

💡 TIP: If you’ve been drinking, double-check the sign: you want the bus headed to the “Old Port”. Otherwise, you might end up somewhere you didn’t plan on… which sounds fun, until your cruise leaves without you.

The ride took about 30 minutes, and by the time we got back to Hora, the quiet maze we’d explored that morning had completely transformed. The streets were packed, music echoed from shopfronts, and the energy had shifted from sleepy seaside to full-on summer buzz.

We picked up a few souvenirs, grabbed a frozen iced coffee (which was basically powdered mix and ice – Greece, we love you, but this ain’t Starbucks), and hustled through the crowds to make our tender back to the cruise ship.

One Last Look at Mykonos

Back on board, snack in hand, we camped out on deck for one last round of sunset photos, because let’s be honest, there’s no such thing as too many sunset shots from a cruise ship.

And as the party island of Mykonos faded behind us, we made a promise: we’re coming back.

This island has two personalities: charming, winding alleyways by day, and legendary beach parties by night. With just one day in Mykonos, we only scratched the surface. If you’re cruising the Greek Islands, this is the port where you’ll wish you had more time.

We might’ve missed the wild nightlife this time, but we still got a taste, and next time, we’re staying for the whole bottle.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ: One Day in Mykonos from a Cruise

🛳️ How far is the Mykonos cruise port from the main town (Hora)?

Most cruise ships anchor offshore and use tender boats to shuttle passengers to the Old Port, which drops you right in Hora (also called Mykonos Town). It’s walkable from the dock so no extra transport needed.

🏖️ What’s the easiest beach to visit from the port?

Ornos Beach is one of the most accessible by bus and also connects to other beaches via water taxi. It’s a great balance of convenience, beauty, and chill vibes.

⛴️ How do I get to Paradise Beach from Mykonos Town?

Take a bus to Ornos, then grab a water taxi to Paradise Beach. It’s scenic, easy, and far less chaotic than trying to DIY with multiple taxis.

🍹 Can I party if I only have one day in Mykonos?

Yes – Paradise Beach and Tropicana Bar start warming up mid-day. If you’re off the ship by 9 AM and leave by 4–5 PM, you’ll catch the early crowd and beach bar vibe. Just don’t expect the full moon-level madness (that kicks in after sunset).

💸 Do I need cash?

Yes. While many places accept cards, buses, loungers, and some beach bars may prefer or require cash, especially for small purchases. Bring at least €20–30 in cash per person just in case. We have a short video on our Instagram explaining ATMs in Europe here.

☀️ What’s the best way to spend one day in Mykonos?

• Wander the alleyways of Hora in the morning
• Beach-hop via water taxi from Ornos to Paradise
• Grab lunch and drinks at a beach bar
• Watch the coast fade away from your cruise ship deck at sunset

Mykonos Tours Worth Booking (Especially for Cruise Stops)

Only in Mykonos for a few hours and don’t want to wing it?
Viator is our go-to for booking tours because:

• You get FREE cancellation
• You can pay later, which helps with planning
• And they have tons of options, from wine tastings to wild beach parties

Here are a few hand-picked Mykonos tours worth considering if you’re short on time but still want a killer experience:

🍾 4-Hour Day Party at Beach Clubs in Mykonos

Skip the guesswork of buses and boats. This tour includes roundtrip transport to both Paradise and Super Paradise Beach, so all you have to do is show up and start sipping.
👉 Best for: Low-effort, high-energy beach vibes

🍷 Tour & Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land

If you want something more local, this tour takes you to a family-run winery just outside of town. Expect wine tasting, snacks, dessert, and a peaceful setting, all with transport included.
👉 Best for: Wine lovers & chill explorers

🚐 Mykonos Shore Excursion with Pickup from Cruise Ship Terminal

Want to see the sights without worrying about logistics? This tour includes cruise port pickup and a guided trip to Hora’s key attractions – great if you want culture over cocktails (for now).
👉 Best for: First-time visitors who want the highlights

🔎 Looking for more? Browse all Mykonos Viator tours here → Click to see the full list

• Mykonos Shore Excursion with Pickup from Cruise Ship Terminal: Looking for a non-booze activity? Assuming you are on a ship, this takes all the guess work of out navigating to some of the big attractions in and around Hora. Ideal if you are wanting to see the sites with the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle to get you there.

Looking for more tours? Viator has a bunch. Click here to view them all!

Travel Medical Insurance

Traveling is unpredictable, and while we’d all rather spend our money on a bar tab in Mykonos, having solid travel insurance is a non-negotiable.

That’s where SafetyWing comes in. Designed by digital nomads for digital nomads (but available to anyone), it’s one of the most affordable and flexible travel medical insurance options out there. Their Nomad Insurance covers everything from medical emergencies to lost luggage and even includes coverage for adventure sports if you opt in.

Unlike traditional travel insurance, SafetyWing runs on a rolling subscription model, so you don’t have to worry about renewal dates while you’re off sipping an aperitivo in Italy.

What really makes SafetyWing stand out is its no-deductible policy, easy claims process, and coverage while visiting home – something most travel insurance companies don’t offer. Plus, if you’re traveling long-term, the price is hard to beat.

Sure, there are a few limitations, like pre-existing conditions not being covered and an age cap of 69, but for most travelers, it’s a no-brainer.

Whether you’re cruising through Europe or just taking an extended getaway, having SafetyWing in your back pocket means you can focus on the fun, not the ‘what ifs’. Click the button below to learn more!

Before You Sail Away…

One day in Mykonos will leave you sun-kissed, slightly buzzed, and already planning your return trip. Whether you’re wandering the postcard-perfect alleys of Hora, cruising along the coastline by water taxi, or soaking up the party vibes at Paradise Beach, this island doesn’t waste your time—it makes every hour count.

We barely scratched the surface during our cruise stop, but that’s the thing about Mykonos: it knows how to leave you wanting more.

Until next time, Mykonos. Next time… we’re staying overnight. 😉

Have you partied in Mykonos? Think it gives Ibiza a run for its money?

Planning more Greek island hopping?

👉 Don’t miss our other cruise-friendly guide: One Day Guide to Katakolon, Greece – Gateway to Olympia