Mykonos: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town

Mykonos: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town
Location: Cyclades, Greece
Country: Greece
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 (62 reviews)
Price: $39.52 per person
Duration: 6 hours

Introduction

If you’re visiting Mykonos on a cruise or just want a taste of the island’s famous beaches and lively streets, this tour offers a convenient way to experience both in one go. While it’s not a private or in-depth exploration, it hits the highlights with a balance of leisurely beach time and authentic wandering through the iconic alleys of Mykonos Town.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience are its organized transportation—meaning less stress figuring out how to get around—and the opportunity to relax at Elia Beach, a stunning stretch of sand known for its crystal-clear waters. A slight caveat is that the free time in Mykonos Town can feel a bit rushed for those eager to explore every corner, but that’s part of the trade-off on a cruise day.

This tour suits travelers who want a painless, affordable taste of Mykonos, especially if your time is limited or you prefer to leave the logistics to someone else. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of beach relaxation and wandering through charming streets without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full day experience around Mykonos.
• Comfortable transportation with scenic drives to and from key sites.
• Leisure time at Elia Beach offers a chance to swim and unwind in beautiful surroundings.
• Self-guided exploration in Mykonos Town allows flexibility to discover local shops and landmarks.
• Includes local touches, like a Greek snack or coffee, for a taste of island life.
• Good for cruise passengers who want a well-organized, straightforward day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for cruise passengers or visitors with a limited window in Mykonos, making it a practical choice for those anxious about navigating the island independently. Starting from Tourlos New Port or Old Port, travelers are greeted by guides who make the process smooth and friendly. The first leg involves a short, scenic drive—about 10 minutes—before reaching Elia Beach, a spot renowned for its golden sands and inviting waters.

Elia Beach: Relaxation and Watersports

Once at Elia, you’ll appreciate the roughly three hours of free time. This isn’t just a quick splash; many reviews praise the beach’s immaculate facilities and inviting atmosphere. You can swim, snorkel, or just stretch out on the sand. The beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and warm sand, perfect for soaking up the sun in comfort.

However, be aware that beach gear isn’t included, and loungers or umbrellas cost around 35 EUR for both. Some travelers note the beach club’s staff can be a little strict about where you can lay, especially if you haven’t rented a lounger, so it’s worth bringing your own towel and being prepared to find your perfect spot on the sand. As one reviewer pointed out, the beach’s sand isn’t owned by the loungers, so if you’re confident in your footing, you can often find a nice stretch for yourself without paying the extra.

Scenic Drive to Mykonos Town and Free Exploration

After a leisurely time at the beach, the tour continues with a about 30-minute drive to the Old Port in Mykonos Town. From there, you’ll have over an hour and a half—about 105 minutes—to explore on your own.

While some guests wish for more time, most find this enough to stroll through the narrow streets, admire the iconic whitewashed buildings, and peek into boutiques or galleries. You might also enjoy sampling some local snacks—many recommend Saki’s for gyros—offering a taste of authentic Greek cuisine at reasonable prices.

A highlight of walking through Mykonos Town is the chance to see famous landmarks, take photos of the picturesque harbor, and get a feel for the island’s lively personality. As one guide noted, the town’s alleys are so beautiful you could spend extra hours just wandering.

The Return and Flexibility

After your free time, the bus picks you up to head back to the cruise port. The total journey is about 10 minutes, making for a smooth, efficient finish. If you choose, you can stay longer on your own or head directly back to the ship, giving you flexibility based on your interests and schedule.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, this tour offers excellent value. Your fare covers transportation, a guide, and a greeter at each pickup, streamlining the experience. Still, there are costs you’ll need to cover separately, such as beach loungers (about 35 EUR), beach gear like towels and snorkeling equipment, and food or drinks—which you’ll likely want to enjoy at a seaside tavern or a local café.

While the tour is straightforward, some reviews mention the pricing of beach loungers as a point of confusion, so it’s good to be prepared. Also, note that pets or large luggage aren’t allowed, and packing light is advisable.

Transportation and Timing

Transportation is by comfortable bus, with most of the drive lasting around 30 minutes. The schedule is designed to maximize your time: a brief transfer to the beach, a good chunk of leisure, then a scenic drive into town, and finally, the return. Check availability for your preferred start times, as the tour lasts about 6 hours, which is perfect for a day ashore.

The meeting points are easy to find: outside the cruise ship terminal or at the Old Port, with clear signs. You’ll be greeted by staff who speak English, making communication simple and stress-free.

What Travelers Say

This tour garners a solid 4.3-star rating based on 62 reviews, with many praising the well-organized nature and friendly guides. One reviewer appreciated how the guide went above and beyond to help a traveler with mobility issues and helped navigate beach rules around loungers, which is a small but meaningful detail.

Others love the stunning scenery and the chance to relax at Elia Beach, calling it beautiful and well-maintained. Several mention how the guided drives were scenic and informative, adding value to the experience.

While some guests note that the free time in Mykonos Town feels a bit short, they still enjoy the chance to explore at their own pace or enjoy local food, often recommending specific eateries for authentic Gyros and snacks.

The Sum Up

This tour hits the key points for travelers seeking a cost-effective, hassle-free way to experience Mykonos. The combination of relaxing at Elia Beach and strolling through the charming streets provides a well-rounded taste of the island, especially suited for cruise passengers or those with limited time.

The organized transportation and friendly guides make the day smooth and enjoyable, while the scenic drives and authentic local stops add a touch of the true island atmosphere. For those who want to dip their toes into Mykonos without the concern of navigating alone or splurging on expensive arrangements, this tour offers a reliable, memorable experience.

However, if you crave more time in the town or at the beach, or want to explore beyond the basics, consider extending your stay or choosing a private option. But for a balanced, affordable introduction, this tour certainly makes the cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by bus is included, with scenic drives from the port to Elia Beach and into Mykonos Town.

How long is the free time at Elia Beach?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to relax, swim, or explore at Elia Beach.

Are beach loungers included?
No, loungers and umbrellas are rented separately for about 35 EUR, and some reviews mention strict rules about where you can lie without renting.

What’s the main activity at Elia Beach?
The main activities are swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning scenery.

Can I explore Mykonos Town on my own?
Yes, you’re given around 105 minutes to wander freely, visit landmarks, shop, or try local snacks.

What’s not included in the tour price?
Beach gear (towels, snorkeling equipment), food, drinks, and sunbeds are extra.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those who want a relaxed day with easy transport and flexible exploration, but keep in mind the duration and activity levels.

What time does the tour start?
Check the availability for start times; the tour runs about 6 hours, with flexible scheduling options.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Mykonos experience offers a practical balance of relaxation and sightseeing, making it a reliable choice for a day’s adventure on one of Greece’s most vibrant islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: