Wandering Mykonos and Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Delos

Mykonos, part of the Cyclades islands in Greece, has been a destination for travelers for centuries, from ancient sailors navigating the Aegean to modern cruise visitors stepping off the tender boats. Unlike Edinburgh UK, where the historic stonework towers above you, Mykonos feels light and airy, with whitewashed walls, splashes of blue, and narrow winding alleys designed to confuse invaders in times past. These same twisting streets can leave visitors a little disoriented, but that’s half the fun of exploring this island.

Each time I’ve visited Mykonos, I’ve set out with no particular agenda, choosing instead to let the streets guide me. The alleys curve and turn in unexpected ways, lined with small chapels, hidden squares, and bursts of bougainvillea climbing over doorways. It’s crowded, with countless other visitors doing the same thing, but there’s something charming about finding your own corner amid the buzz.

The windmills of Mykonos stand proudly above the town, instantly recognizable and always worth the short climb from the harbor. The view back across Little Venice, where colorful balconies hang over the sea, feels like a postcard come to life. I’ve stopped here many times to take in the scene, often watching the waves crash against the walls of the waterfront houses while ships pass in the distance.

Food in Mykonos is never complicated but always satisfying. Plates of grilled meats, fries, fresh salads, and pita with tzatziki are served in lively tavernas with blue tables and white chairs. Sitting outdoors is part of the experience, with the hum of voices, the smell of the sea, and the occasional street cat weaving between tables.

A Journey to Delos

Although I’ve been content to wander Mykonos itself, I’ve also taken excursions out to the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Delos was once one of the most important religious and commercial centers in ancient Greece, said to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Walking among the ruins feels like stepping back in time, with marble lion statues, mosaics, temples, and an amphitheater still standing after thousands of years. The museum on the island houses many of the original statues and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the grandeur that once defined Delos.