Mykonos: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town

This tour offers a well-balanced taste of what makes Mykonos a favorite for travelers—stunning beaches and lively town streets—without the hassle of planning every detail. For cruise ship passengers particularly, it promises a smooth, organized experience, with transportation, a scenic drive, and ample free time to explore at your own pace.

Two things I really like about this experience are the knowledgeable guides—who seem genuinely keen on sharing tips and local insights—and the flexibility to enjoy the town and beach on your own terms. Plus, the trip’s price of just under $40 per person includes transportation, which is often a significant hidden cost in island excursions.

A potential consideration is that the free time in Mykonos Town is around 1 hour and 45 minutes, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to see more. Some reviews mention that the opportunity to explore could be slightly limited, but for many, this quick snapshot is enough to capture the town’s charm. Overall, it’s a solid option for those wanting a taste of both beach relaxation and authentic Mykonos wandering without overcommitting.

Key Points & Takeaways

Balanced itinerary: Combines a scenic beach visit with free time in Mykonos Town.
Affordable price: At around $39.52, it offers good value—transport, guides, and some flexibility included.
Expert guides: Guides like Elsa are highlighted for their helpfulness, local tips, and friendly attitude.
Flexible free time: About 1 hour and 45 minutes at the town allows you to explore shops, alleyways, and cafes.
Beach facilities: Elia Beach is praised for its clean, beautiful sands and facilities, though renting loungers is an extra cost.
Practical tips: Bring beach gear—towels, sunscreen, swimwear—and be prepared to explore on foot in the town.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mykonos Town.

A Detailed Look at the Mykonos Experience

Starting from the Cruise Ports

The tour begins conveniently at either the Tourlos New Port or Old Port. As you step off your cruise ship, you’ll find guides holding signs—like the “iTravel Mykonos” sign—which immediately sets a professional tone. This prompt start is appreciated, especially if you’re anxious about missing the bus or losing your group. The bus ride to Elia Beach is around 10 minutes, offering a quick scenic preview of the island’s landscape.

The Scenic Drive to Elia Beach

The journey to Elia Beach takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the views and listen to your guide’s commentary. From reviews, guides like Elsa and others provide helpful insights about Mykonos, making the drive educational and relaxed. Knowing that this beach is renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters helps build anticipation.

The Highlight: Elia Beach

Once at Elia, you’ll find a gorgeous stretch of sand with options to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. The beach’s facilities—described as immaculate—include a beach club with loungers and umbrellas available for rent, though at around 35 EUR for both, this can be a splurge. Many reviews mention that you can lay on the sand freely without renting, which is a welcome relief for budget-conscious travelers.

Guests who’ve visited praise the friendly beach staff and the beautiful, clean waters—some describe it as one of the clearest they’ve ever seen. Some reviews highlight that the beach can get busy, and the rental prices are steep, but the overall atmosphere remains laid-back and inviting.

Here's some more things to do in Mykonos Town

Tips from Guides and Reviews

One helpful tip from the guide was to clarify that the sand belongs to no one, so you’re free to relax wherever you like, regardless of lounger rentals. This kind of practical advice can save you money and frustration. If you’re with family or traveling with a baby, the guides are attentive—many reviews mention the guides’ flexibility and willingness to assist with mobility issues or children.

Free Time in Mykonos Town

After the beach, the tour moves to Mykonos Old Port, where you’ll board a bus for a scenic 30-minute ride to the town. The free time here is around 1 hour and 45 minutes, which many find enough to get a real feel for the narrow alleys, iconic windmills, and bustling cafes.

You’ll love wandering the whitewashed streets, discovering boutique shops, and stopping at local cafes for a Greek coffee or snack. Elsa’s recommendations, like trying Gyros at Saki’s for around 8 Euros, are often appreciated, giving you a taste of local flavor. As some reviews point out, this short window can be a bit rushed—”I could have spent another hour in the town,” one visitor noted—but it’s enough to see the highlights and soak in the atmosphere.

Local Landmarks & Market Finds

The town’s charm is in its labyrinth of narrow streets and vibrant storefronts. While the tour isn’t a guided walk through every landmark, you’ll likely pass by iconic spots like the Windmills of Mykonos and Little Venice. Many travelers find this glimpse enough to inspire future visits.

Return and Reflection

After your free time, you’ll meet back at the bus for the 10-minute drive back to the cruise port. The overall organization, based on reviews, is smooth and punctual, with guides like Elsa going above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable. Some mention that the transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, which matters on hot Greek days.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits cruise travelers looking for a stress-free, well-organized way to enjoy Mykonos without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good if you want a balance of beach relaxation and authentic town exploration—or if your time is limited but you still want a taste of the island’s best features.

It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a guided overview without the expense of private tours. If you’re keen to explore every detail of Mykonos, this might feel a bit brief, but for those wanting a manageable, enjoyable snapshot, it hits the mark.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

Bring beach gear: towel, sunscreen, and a hat will make your beach time more comfortable.
Consider renting a lounger if you prefer comfort, but be aware of extra costs.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy Elsa’s tip about local eateries—try Saki’s Gyros for a quick, authentic bite.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for exploring the town; the streets are narrow and often cobbled.
You can choose to stay in Mykonos Town longer if you wish—just keep track of your return time.
The tour is flexible—you can opt out of the town exploration to head straight back, making it adaptable to your schedule.
Don’t forget your camera—the views of the town, the beaches, and the iconic windmills are picture-perfect.
Be mindful of the schedule to maximize your time, especially if you want to see the town highlights.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is about 6 hours, including transportation, beach time, and town exploration.

What is included in the price?
Transportation by bus, a driver, and a greeter at each pickup location are included.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you’ll need to pay for your own food, drinks, beach gear, and sunlounger rentals if desired.

Where do the tour starts and ends?
It begins at the Cruise Ship Pier (either New Port or Old Port) and ends back at the same point.

Can I stay longer in Mykonos Town?
Yes, you can choose to stay longer, but you’ll need to arrange your own return to the cruise or accommodations.

Is the beach suitable for children?
Elia Beach is family-friendly, and guides can assist with mobility issues, making it suitable for children and mobility-restricted travelers.

How is the transportation?
Buses are described as comfortable and air-conditioned, making the journey to and from the beach and town pleasant.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Pets and large luggage are not allowed.

Final Thoughts

This Mykonos tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to experience the island’s two main draws—its stunning beaches and lively town streets—without the stress of self-organizing. For cruise travelers eager to make the most of a limited window, it offers good value, expert guides, and a chance to soak up the island’s best features. The flexibility to explore on your own after the guided portions makes it adaptable to different preferences, whether you want to relax on the sand or snap photos in the charming alleys.

If your goal is a straightforward, well-organized taste of Mykonos with enough free time to wander and enjoy, this tour hits the spot. Just pack your beach gear, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall for the charm of this Greek jewel.