Mykonos: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town

If you’re arriving in Mykonos by cruise, this tour promises a blend of relaxation and exploration for around six hours, costing about $39.52 per person. You’ll start with a scenic drive to Elia Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters, and enjoy about three hours of leisure time—perfect for swimming, soaking up the sun, or trying out watersports. Afterward, you’ll head into Mykonos Town, a maze of narrow streets, boutique shops, and lively cafes, where you can wander freely for over an hour.

What we love about this tour is its balance—it offers enough beach time to unwind without feeling rushed, combined with a taste of the authentic charm of Mykonos town. Plus, the comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides make it easy for cruise passengers to make the most of their limited time ashore.

One thing to keep in mind is that beach amenities like sunloungers and umbrellas cost extra, and not all beach facilities are included in the package. Also, the free time in Mykonos Town is just over an hour, which might feel brief if you’re eager to explore every alleyway and landmark. This is a flexible trip well-suited for those wanting a sampling of beach relaxation combined with local culture.

If you’re looking for an efficient, well-organized way to see some of Mykonos’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour is a good pick. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided convenience with ample opportunity for personal exploration.

Key Points

• Balance of relaxation and exploration: Enjoy a relaxing three-hour beach break coupled with free time in town.
• Comfortable transport: Modern buses and a friendly driver make traveling between spots smooth.
• Authentic local experience: Walk through Mykonos’s iconic streets, discovering shops, landmarks, and eateries.
• Cost effective: At around $40, it offers a solid value for a Mediterranean island experience.
• Guided insights: Guides share helpful information, making the brief stopovers more meaningful.
• Flexible options: You can choose to stay longer in town or head straight back to your cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off at Tourlos New Port or Old Port, both conveniently close to cruise ship terminals. The meeting is straightforward—just look for the iTravel Mykonos sign. From there, you board a comfortable bus for the scenic drive to Elia Beach. The 10-minute ride is a good chance to get your first glimpses of Mykonos’s rugged coastline and traditional architecture.

The transport itself is appreciated not only for comfort but also for the ease it offers—especially after disembarking from a cruise, when switching to a reliable, air-conditioned vehicle makes a big difference. Reviews highlight the timeliness and friendliness of the drivers and guides, which helps set a positive tone for the day.

Elia Beach: Sun, Sand, and Watersports

Arriving at Elia Beach, you’ll find a vast stretch of golden sand and crystal waters—a favorite among visitors for both lounging and swimming. During your three hours of free time, you can choose to rent sunloungers and umbrellas (roughly 35 EUR for both), or simply spread your towel on the sand and soak up the Greek sunshine.

Reviews mention that beach staff are friendly, though the lounger rental can be pricey, and some guides inform you that you are free to sit anywhere on the sand if you prefer not to rent a lounger. One traveler pointed out that the beach club managers may try to enforce rules about where you can lay, but guides help clarify that the sand itself is public property.

Beyond lounging, the water at Elia is noted for being very clean and cool—ideal for a refreshing dip. Watersports options might be available if you’re feeling adventurous, but these are not included in the tour price, so bring your own gear if you want to snorkel or paddleboard.

Free Time in Mykonos Town

After your beach session, you’ll transfer back to Mykonos Old Port, and from there, walk into Mykonos Town. This part of the tour lasts about 105 minutes, which means you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets, lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

Reviewers frequently mention that their guides offered excellent recommendations for places to eat, including a well-loved spot called Saki’s, where Gyros can be had for around 8 Euros. Many travelers say they wish they had more time—one reviewer noted, “Time in the Town went too quickly,” reflecting how charming and photogenic these alleys are.

Expect to see iconic landmarks like the Windmills and Little Venice, but remember this is a self-guided segment, so you’re free to explore at your own pace. Some may prefer to visit specific shops, take photos, or just sip coffee at a sidewalk café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

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Returning to the Cruise

After your time in town, you’ll hop back onto the bus, which will take you back to the starting point. The entire process is straightforward, with a timely return to your cruise ship, ensuring you don’t miss your departure.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

This tour offers a cost-effective way to enjoy some of Mykonos’s best features without the stress of navigating independently. The $39.52 price covers transportation, the guide’s insights, and the convenience of organized stops.

However, additional expenses—like beach gear, food, beverages, and loungers—are extra, so budget accordingly. The tour’s flexibility is a plus; if you prefer more time in Mykonos Town or at the beach, you can simply stay longer on your own.

The guide’s knowledge is often praised, adding context and local tips that enrich the experience. This is especially valuable given the limited time ashore; their insights help you maximize your visit.

One potential drawback is the brief free time in town, which some travelers consider too short for full exploration. If you’re eager to see more landmarks or shop extensively, you might want to plan a longer visit independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers who want a taste of Mykonos’s iconic beaches and charming streets without over-committing or spending too much. It suits those seeking relaxation combined with cultural flavor, especially if you’re okay with a self-guided wander after the guided portion.

It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate organized logistics, comfortable transport, and friendly guides sharing useful local tips. If you’re traveling with family, the easy pace and manageable itinerary make this a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  The entire tour lasts about 6 hours from pickup to return, including drive time, beach relaxation, and free time in town.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at Tourlos New Port or Old Port and finishes back at the same location.

• What should I bring?
  Pack a change of clothes, towel, beachwear, sunscreen, hat, and camera for capturing the scenery.

• Are there any included meals or snacks?
  No, food and drinks are not included, but you can buy local snacks and coffee in Mykonos Town.

• What are the costs for beach amenities?
  Sunloungers and umbrellas cost approximately 35 EUR for both, paid directly at the beach.

• Can I stay longer in Mykonos Town?
  Yes, you can choose to explore beyond the allocated time, but you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back.

• Is this tour suitable for children or mobility issues?
  Yes, guides are accommodating; one review mentions being allowed to board first due to mobility concerns.

• What language is the guide?
  Guides speak English.

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

• What if I want to explore more of the island?
  This tour provides a sample—for more extensive exploration, consider independent plans or longer tours.

In Closing

For cruise travelers wanting a nice blend of beach time and town strolls, this Mykonos tour offers a straightforward, well-organized way to sample the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. The scenic drive, friendly guides, and authentic town atmosphere make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you’re short on time but eager to experience Mykonos’s charm.

You’ll love the stunning Elia Beach with its crystal-clear waters and soft sands, perfect for a quick but memorable escape. The free time in Mykonos Town reveals the island’s lively character, with its narrow streets and inviting cafes. While the shorter town visit might leave some wanting more, it’s an ideal introduction for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.

Overall, if you’re after value, convenience, and authentic moments, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want a safe, fun, and picturesque taste of what makes Mykonos special.

You can check availability for your dates here: