Day Trip to Mykonos Island from Athens

Introduction: Is the Day Trip to Mykonos from Athens Worth It?

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Mykonos, but time or budget keeps you from a longer stay, this day trip promises a taste of Greece’s most glamorous island. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but we’ve gathered enough honest insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we like most about this tour? First, the fact that it handles all the logistics—ferry tickets, island transportation, and even some guidance—means you can focus on soaking up the scenery without stressing about the details. Second, the trip duration offers a good balance—around 11 to 12 hours overall—giving you a decent chunk of time on the island without it feeling like a marathon.

That said, a big consideration is the high price point—around $442 per person—which might seem steep given some of the limitations (like limited time and a somewhat crowded experience). For travelers looking for a quick, organized getaway to see highlights without planning every detail, this could be a good choice. But if you’re after a more relaxed, in-depth exploration or a private, personalized experience, you might want to think twice.

This tour is likely best suited for those who want a convenient, all-in-one day trip to Mykonos, especially if you’re okay with a busy schedule and are more interested in sightseeing than lounging on the beach or exploring every corner of the island.

Key Points

• All-in-one package including ferry tickets, transportation, and a host to assist you.
• Time-efficient with about 4-5 hours on the island, perfect for a quick visit.
• Costly, but the convenience may justify the price for some travelers.
• Limited free time might feel rushed, especially for exploring or relaxing at the beaches.
• No guided tours on the island, so you’ll explore mostly independently.
• Crowded ferry and busy schedule could impact your experience.

What to Expect on This Mykonos Day Trip

This tour offers a quick, organized way to experience Mykonos, but it’s important to understand what’s included and what’s not. From start to finish, the focus is on efficiency, so you can maximize your day without the stress of planning every step.

The Pickup and Ferry Ride

The adventure begins at the Port of Piraeus, either with a self-arranged arrival or by opting for their transfer service. Once there, an excursion host greets you, hands over your ferry tickets, and helps set the tone for the day. The ferry itself is a high-speed vessel that can carry over 1,000 passengers, and you’ll enjoy assigned, airplane-style seats—more comfortable than many other ferry experiences.

Travel time on the ferry is around 3 hours, which is fairly typical for a high-speed service, though some reviews indicate that the round-trip can take longer—about 6 hours total. The ferry’s amenities are basic but functional, with snacks for purchase and comfortable seating.

Arrival and First Stop: Mykonos Town

Once you arrive at Tourlos port, your driver will meet you, holding a sign with your name. The journey into Mykonos Town takes about 15 minutes, and this is where you’ll get the most of your limited time.

In Mykonos Town, you’ll be able to explore the iconic white-and-blue houses, visit the famous windmills, and stroll through charming streets. It’s a postcard come to life. With roughly 90 minutes here, you’ll have time to snap photos, browse boutiques, or enjoy a coffee at a cozy café.

Many reviews appreciate this part, calling it the highlight of the trip: “Seeing the island itself, windmills, and the oldest church,” as one traveler put it. However, some found the free time a bit tight, especially if you want to explore more or relax longer.

The Beach and Relaxation

Next, you’ll meet your driver again and head to Ornos Beach—a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and casual seaside dining. The stop here lasts about 90 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, grab lunch at a beachside restaurant, or simply unwind on a sunbed.

One of the reviews mentioned that the area looked “condemned,” which may reflect the beach’s condition or just some of the less scenic parts. But generally, Ornos Beach is well-liked for its beauty and relaxed vibe.

Returning to Piraeus

After soaking up some sun, you’ll head back to the port to catch your ferry, then transfer back to Piraeus. The whole day wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel or original pickup point, if you’ve booked that service. If you didn’t, you’ll be responsible for your own transport from Piraeus.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What We Love

1. Convenience and organization: This tour takes care of all the logistics, from ferry tickets to transportation, making it a stress-free way to see Mykonos in a day. You won’t need to worry about booking ferries separately or figuring out public transport.

2. The scenic ferry ride: Traveling aboard a high-speed vessel means you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey across the Aegean, with the added bonus of beautiful sea views. Many travelers find this part quite enjoyable.

3. Time in Mykonos Town: The 1.5-hour visit to the town offers a good taste of the island’s charm—windmills, cobblestone streets, and picturesque views. It’s often the highlight of the trip.

4. Beaches at Ornos: The stop at Ornos Beach allows some relaxation, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying local food, giving a break from sightseeing.

The Drawbacks

1. Limited time on the island: Four to five hours isn’t much, especially if you want to explore more than just the main town and one beach. Some reviews mention feeling rushed or bored because there’s not enough downtime.

2. The cost: At over $440 per person, this is a significant expense for a day trip, especially considering the ferry and transportation are included but food and other extras are not. For some, the price might outweigh the brief experience.

3. Crowded ferry and busy schedule: The ferry can be packed, and with such a tight schedule, you’ll spend a good chunk of your day traveling, which might take away from actual exploration.

4. No guided sightseeing on the island: The tour doesn’t include a guide on Mykonos itself, so you’re mostly exploring independently, which might not suit travelers looking for in-depth tours or cultural enrichment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those who want a quick, organized snapshot of Mykonos without the hassle of planning each step. It suits travelers who prioritize convenience over extended leisure or in-depth exploration. If you’re comfortable with a busy day and are mainly interested in seeing the highlights—like the windmills, town streets, and a nice beach—this could be a good fit.

It’s also a decent option if you’re in Athens and want to tick Mykonos off your bucket list without committing to a multi-day stay. However, if your goal is to relax on the beaches, explore hidden corners, or enjoy a more leisurely pace, you’ll probably find this tour a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This day trip provides a practical way to experience Mykonos in a limited time frame. The organized approach, including ferry tickets and transportation, means you won’t have to worry about logistics, which is a big plus. The scenic ferry ride and the chance to walk through Mykonos Town are definite highlights, and the beach stop offers some relaxation.

However, the cost is on the higher side for what you get—especially considering the limited time and the fact that many reviews mention feeling rushed or some disappointment with the experience. The ferry can also be crowded, and the free time on the island is brief, so if you’re someone who wants to explore at your own pace or relax longer, this may not be the best choice.

For travelers who want a hassle-free, snapshot visit and are okay with a tight schedule, this trip is a solid option. But if you’re seeking a deeper dive into Mykonos’s culture, beaches, and hidden spots, you might prefer to plan a longer stay or look for tailored tours.

FAQs About the Day Trip to Mykonos from Athens

Is this a guided tour of Mykonos?
No, this is mainly a transportation-based experience. You’ll have a host to meet you at the port, but there’s no guided sightseeing or commentary during your time on the island.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride is approximately 3 hours on a high-speed vessel, offering a smooth and comfortable journey across the sea.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the high-speed ferry and private transportation on the island, plus a host to assist you at the start. Food, snacks, sunbeds, and personal expenses are not included.

Can I relax on the beach during the trip?
You can spend about 90 minutes at Ornos Beach—enough to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy seaside dining, but not long enough to fully relax without feeling rushed.

Is there enough time to explore Mykonos Town?
Yes, about 1 hour 30 minutes is allocated, which allows for sightseeing, photos, shopping, or grabbing a quick snack. But it’s a brief window, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, a hat, comfortable shoes, and some cash or card for snacks or shopping.

Will I see beautiful views during the trip?
Definitely. The ferry ride offers great sea views, and the town has iconic photo spots like the windmills and whitewashed streets.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically geared towards children, the trip could work for families if your kids are comfortable traveling by ferry and walking around briefly.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 34 days ahead, which suggests spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

In summary, this day trip to Mykonos from Athens offers a straightforward way to see the famous island for those pressed for time or preferring an organized experience. Keep your expectations realistic about the limited time and the costs involved, and you’ll likely enjoy a pleasant, scenic, and hassle-free adventure.