How to holiday in Mykonos on a budget

We’ve all heard horror stories in the news of £100 sun beds and £50 cocktails emptying the wallets of holidaymakers in Mykonos. And while it’s true that this Greek island gem has gained a reputation as a haunt for the rich and famous over recent years, we’re here to let you know that it’s possible to enjoy a holiday in Mykonos without taking out a second mortgage. Can you holiday in Mykonos on a budget? Of course you can – by following our top 10 tips!

1. Travel in the shoulder season

By shoulder season, we mean the months either side of July and August. During these peak months, hotel prices skyrocket and so does the cost of a cocktail – avoid if you want to keep spending down. Instead, aim for May, June, September, or October. Travel in June, and look forward to balmy weather with temperatures of 26°C and above – enough to keep even the most serious sun-seeker happy!

2. Book early

This one might sound obvious, but book early, and you’ll have more choice when it comes to budget-friendly hotels and apartments. While last minute holidays can often work out to your advantage, the popularity of Mykonos means you’re unlikely to grab a late deal for a decent price. Instead, aim to book anywhere from 4-6 months in advance for the best offers. Take a look at our wide range of Mykonos flight & hotel deals, and start planning your Mykonos getaway!

3. Bus it!

You don’t need to fork out on expensive taxis when you want to check out Little Venice and Mykonos Town. Instead, hop on a Mykonos bus and see the sights for a fraction of the price! Busses leave from all the major resort towns such as Agios Ioannis from spring onwards and cost between €1-3. During the summer season, busses run into the early morning, covering popular party beaches Paraga and Super Paradise. You can pay the driver (cash only) or buy your ticket from the booth at every bus station.

4. Travel on two wheels

If you’re not a fan of public transport, it’s easy to get around much of Mykonos by bike. Reputable companies such as Bike Center Mykonos offer a range of bicycles for hire, including e bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes. Popular cycling routes include Mykonos Town to Agios Ioannis via Korfos Beach and the paved pathways in the hills leading to Elias Church. If you’re more of a petrolhead, you’ll find a handful of scooter rental shops in Mykonos Town (driving license required).

5. Eat for cheap

In Mykonos, eating out can cost you an arm and a leg, especially if you dine by the ocean. Yet, there are plenty of decently priced restaurants to be found if you head away from the crowds. Near Ornos Beach, don’t miss a visit to Lefteris Tavern, home to the juiciest souvlaki and chicken gyros on the island. For an authentic taste of Greece, hop on a bus to the village of Ano Mera where you’ll find taverna Oti Apomeine serving up tasty Greek fare at local prices.

6. Self cater

One of the best ways to save money on your Mykonos holiday is to self cater. Not only do you get to choose your mealtimes, but you can eat what you want at a price to suit your budget. Just 2.5km from Mykonos Town and a short walk from the idyllic Psarou Beach, Edem Garden Residence gives you an apartment-style stay with a full kitchen and barbeque area. Stock up on supplies at Delivery Supermarket, 200m from your accommodation.

7. Go half board

While it can be difficult to snap up an all inclusive bargain in Mykonos, there are certainly a few options for half board hotels at reasonable prices. You’ll get breakfast and dinner with this board basis, plus the chance to try out the delectable (and cheap) street food in Mykonos Town during the day. The excellent Hotel Yianakki in Ornos comes with a large outdoor pool, and prices drop significantly in the shoulder season.

8. Be a beach bum!

There are dozens of beaches to find in Mykonos, so you’re never far away from a dip in the see-through waters of the Aegean. All of them are free to visit, but during the busier months, popular stretches like Psarou and Paradise can be filled with expensive sunbeds making it difficult to find a spot on the sand. If you prefer things uncrowded, we recommend the wild beach at Agios Sostis in the north, and Kapari Beach on the west coast.

9. See all the free sights

Mykonos is home to a number of word-famous sights that are free to visit. Don’t miss the iconic windmills in Mykonos Town dating all the way back to the 16^th century – camera at the ready! And be sure to pay a visit to Little Venice, a collection of bars and restaurants directly on the water’s edge. If you’re a fan of breathtaking views (and who isn’t?) head uphill to Mykonos Lookout Point, an observation deck behind Boni’s Windmill.

10. Do some fun, free activities

When you’re packing for your Mykonos budget break, don’t forget to dust off the snorkel you’ve got boxed away in the attic. There are some incredible spots for snorkelling all around the coast, including Paraga Beach (a 20 minute walk from Paradise Beach) and Lia Beach on the southeast coast. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you’ll find some rewarding hiking trails in Mykonos, such as Platys Gialos to Kafe Kavos Cape and Ornos to Kapari Beach.

Good to know

Weather:

In June and September, daytime temperatures average 26°C, dropping to around 19°C in the evenings – you may want to bring a thin outer layer if you’re out after sunset. In May and October, expect highs of 23°C during the day, and 16°C at night.

Public transport:

Mykonos has an excellent bus system, covering all the major tourist resorts, with busses running until 4am in peak season. Expect to pay between €1-3 each way. You can find updated timetables on the official Mykonos bus website.

Supermarkets:

Most supermarkets are on the small side in Mykonos, but are usually well-stocked and more than adequate if you’re self catering. Popular supermarkets include AB Food Market in Mykonos Town and Flora Supermarket by the airport.  

Hiking trails:

You’ll find plenty of well-worn trails all over the island – everything from mile-long strolls by the beach to challenging high-up climbs through the hills. Check out AllTrails for a wide range of age-appropriate hikes in Mykonos.