Mykonos Shore Excursion: Elia Beach & Town Exploration

Mykonos Shore Excursion: Elia Beach & Town Exploration
Rating: 4.5/5 (from 31 reviews)
Price: $34.39 per person
Location: Mykonos, Greece
Supplier: Vexperio
Contact: +48531415115 | [email protected]

<h3 id="section-0">What’s this tour all about?

If you’re looking to enjoy some of Mykonos’ best sights and beaches without the hassle of rigid schedules, this self-guided tour could be just the ticket. It offers a blend of relaxed beach time and independent wandering through the iconic streets of Mykonos Town—all at your own pace. We love that it provides flexibility, allowing you to soak up the sun and explore without being tied down by a group or a guide.

Two standout features caught our eye: the generous three hours at Elia Beach, perfect for swimming or just lounging, and the independent exploration of Old Port and Little Venice, which gives you the freedom to soak in the atmosphere your way. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a guide for the town, so if you prefer guided insights, you’ll need to opt for the optional tour upgrade.

This experience feels best suited for travelers who value flexibility, affordability, and a taste of both relaxation and culture. It’s especially good for those who want to avoid the feeling of being rushed and love discovering places on their own.

Key Points

• Flexible Schedule: You can spend as long as you like in Mykonos Town and at Elia Beach, making it ideal for relaxed travelers.
• Affordable Price: For around $34, you gain access to a full day of beach and town exploration, which is quite reasonable considering the scenic beauty and the included transportation.
• Self-Guided Freedom: You explore at your own pace, with no guide directing your steps, giving you genuine independence.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern, air-conditioned buses and a professional driver keep things smooth and comfortable.
• Good Reviews: Travelers praise the helpfulness of the staff, beautiful views, and the well-organized start.
• Consideration: Beach equipment like sunbeds and umbrellas are not included but are available at extra cost, which some reviews mention as pricey.

The Full Breakdown of Your Mykonos Day

Starting Point: Mykonos Port

Your adventure kicks off right at the cruise ship terminal, where a friendly representative from Vexperio will greet you. Look for the “iTravel Mykonos” sign. The check-in process is straightforward, and they make a brief stop at the Old Port to ensure everyone is onboard.

This initial moment sets the tone for the ease of the day. The staff’s friendliness and clear instructions help avoid any early confusion—something travelers have appreciated, especially when arriving in a busy port.

The Ride to Elia Beach

Next, you’ll hop aboard a modern, air-conditioned bus for a short drive to Elia Beach. The ride itself offers stunning views of Mykonos, giving you a quick preview of the beautiful landscape. The journey is brief—about 5 minutes—and the bus is comfortable, making the first part of the experience stress-free.

This part of the trip is particularly appreciated for reliability—many reviews mention how smoothly transportation runs, which is crucial when you’re on a tight schedule or a cruise ship’s timetable.

Elia Beach: The Star of the Day

Once you arrive at Elia Beach, you’ll most likely be struck by its expansiveness and natural beauty. It’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Mykonos, known for its soft golden sands and clear, inviting waters.

You have approx. 3 hours here, which is enough to swim, relax, or try water sports if you’re feeling adventurous. Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful the water is, with one noting it’s an “incredible shade of blue.” Keep in mind, the water can be chilly, but many still enjoyed wading and walking along the shore.

If you want to rent beach equipment—such as sunbeds and umbrellas—you’ll need to pay extra, with prices around 35-40 euros for a first-row setup. Several reviews point out that this adds to the cost, and some found it a bit pricey for just an hour or two. However, if you’re planning a relaxed day, splurging for a comfy spot might be worth it.

For food, there’s a seaside taverna nearby where you can indulge in fresh Greek cuisine and cold drinks—this is a lovely way to enjoy the scenery and sample local flavors without leaving the beach.

Free Time in Mykonos Town

After soaking up the sun, it’s time to head to Mykonos Town, often called one of the most charming places in Greece. The tour includes about 2 hours of free time to explore at your leisure. You’ll start from the Old Port, where vehicles aren’t allowed into the core, so on-foot wandering is the way to go.

From here, you can visit the Windmills of Kato Milli, iconic symbols of the island, or stroll through the narrow, winding streets of Little Venice, lined with colorful houses and waterfront cafes. The town’s architecture is postcard-perfect, and the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed.

Several reviews emphasize how beautiful and charming the town is, with some mentioning hidden gems and boutique shops worth discovering. Food lovers can find great local bites or relax at a seaside café with a view.

Optional Guided Tour

If you’re craving deeper insights into the town’s history or stories behind the sights, you can opt for an additional guided tour. Many travelers found their own exploration more meaningful when equipped with a guide’s commentary, but the main tour is designed for those who enjoy wandering independently.

Returning to the Port

Once you’re ready, a comfortable bus ride will take you back to Tourlos New Port, where your day started. The tour guarantees a timely return to your cruise ship—an important detail for those on tight schedules.

If you wish to stay longer in Mykonos Town, you’re free to do so; just be sure to manage your own transportation back to your ship or accommodation.

What are the reviews telling us?

Participants consistently praise the helpful staff and smooth organization. Andrea_C calls it a “money well spent,” especially highlighting the informative and entertaining guide (who is optional for town exploration but included at the beach). Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery, especially at Elia Beach, and the laid-back pace appeals to those wanting a relaxed day.

However, some reviews point out small irritations: waiting times at the start, the need to pay extra for beach chairs, and the expense of renting umbrellas. One reviewer felt the beach time was too short, which could be a downside for those craving more sunbathing or water sports.

Several travelers also appreciate the reliability of transportation, with mention of “trustworthy” drivers and comfortable buses. The flexibility to explore on your own is another highlight—perfect for those who prefer independent wandering over guided tours.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a low-cost, flexible day in Mykonos. If you prefer relaxing at the beach and exploring at your own pace, it’s a great option. It suits those on a cruise who need a dependable way to see the highlights without committing to guided tours.

Families or couples who enjoy wandering and discovering local gems will find it a good fit. However, if you’re looking for more guided insights or a structured schedule, you might want to consider other options or pay for the optional guided town tour.

The Sum Up

This Mykonos shore excursion offers a well-priced, flexible way to experience two of the island’s best features: the stunning Elia Beach and the charming streets of Mykonos Town. The ability to choose how long to relax on the sand or stroll through town makes it especially appealing for those who dislike rigid tours and want to set their own pace.

The reliable transportation, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery add to the appeal, while the main caveat is the extra cost for beach equipment and the absence of a guided tour inside the town. Still, for a budget-friendly, easygoing day, it hits most marks. If you love the idea of combining relaxation with independent exploration, this tour will serve you well.

Ultimately, it’s best suited for laid-back travelers, cruise passengers, and anyone eager to enjoy Mykonos without feeling hurried. Just remember to plan for your own transport back if you want to extend your stay in town.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those who enjoy independent exploration and relaxed beach days. Just keep in mind that vehicles aren’t allowed into the town, so you’ll be walking around on your own.

How long do I spend at Elia Beach?
You get about 3 hours, which is generally enough for swimming, relaxing, and maybe trying water sports if you wish. Reviewers mention the water can be chilly, but many still enjoy their time there.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers port pickup and drop-off, transportation in a modern, comfortable bus, and the self-guided exploration of the town and beach. Beach equipment like sunbeds and umbrellas are extra, as are food and beverages.

Can I stay longer in Mykonos Town?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to return at your convenience, so if you want more time wandering or shopping, you can stay longer and make your way back independently.

Is there a guided tour of the town?
The main tour doesn’t include a guide inside Mykonos Town, but there is an option to add a guided tour if you prefer more historical or cultural insights.

What happens if my cruise can’t dock?
Vexperio offers a full refund if your ship cannot dock, providing peace of mind for travelers worried about schedule disruptions.

How reliable is the transportation?
Many reviews say the transportation is trustworthy, with friendly drivers and on-time pickups and drop-offs, which is crucial for tight cruise schedules.

This tour offers a balance of relaxation, independence, and scenic beauty, all at a fair price. Perfect if you prefer to take things slow and enjoy Mykonos on your own terms.