Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands. With white-washed buildings, bright blue waters, and a lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder so many people dream of visiting. Whether you’re coming for the beach clubs, the charming Old Town, or simply to soak in the Aegean views, getting there is part of the experience. This guide will walk you through the different ways to reach Mykonos—from the United States, from Europe, Athens, or from nearby islands.
Where is Mykonos?
Mykonos is part of the Cyclades, a group of islands in the heart of the Aegean Sea. It’s located between mainland Greece and Santorini. Known for luxury stays, picturesque villages, and its famous windmills, Mykonos is a magnet for travelers from all over the world. While it may feel remote, getting there is easier than you might think.
Getting to Mykonos from the United States
There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Mykonos, so the journey involves at least one stop—either in Athens or a major European hub.
Start your trip by flying from a U.S. city like New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), or Los Angeles (LAX) to Europe. Major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, United, and European carriers such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France offer daily flights.
Popular European cities for connections include:
- London
- Paris
- Rome
- Amsterdam
- Frankfurt
- Athens
From these cities, you can take a direct flight to Mykonos—especially during the high season (April to October). Flights from European cities to Mykonos usually take 2–3 hours, depending on the departure point. Carriers like Aegean Airlines, EasyJet, Volotea, and Ryanair frequently operate these routes.
If you fly into Athens first, you can catch a short domestic flight to Mykonos. This is often the most efficient route and takes just 40 minutes.
Flying from Europe to Mykonos
Mykonos is well connected to many European cities, especially between April and October when seasonal flights ramp up. Direct routes from places like London, Milan, Zurich, Munich, Paris, and Barcelona make it easy to reach the island in just a few hours.
If you’re already traveling through Europe, flying straight to Mykonos is one of the fastest and most convenient options. It’s a great way to skip Athens altogether and head straight to the beach. Both full-service and low-cost carriers operate these routes, with budget-friendly fares available if you book early. Flights fill up quickly in summer, so it’s best to plan ahead for the best prices and schedule.
Arriving at Mykonos International Airport puts you just minutes from Mykonos Town, making the whole journey smooth and stress-free.
Getting to Mykonos from Athens
Many travelers begin their Greek journey in Athens, the bustling capital filled with ancient history. From there, reaching Mykonos is easy and flexible, with two main travel options: flying or taking a ferry. Your choice depends on your budget, time, and whether you prefer speed or scenic views.
By Plane
The fastest way to reach Mykonos from Athens is by plane. Flights take about 40 minutes and are operated by Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Volotea. Several flights depart each day, making it easy to coordinate with your schedule.
Athens International Airport (ATH) is modern, efficient, and well-connected. Domestic departures are usually straightforward, and you can often check your bags through to Mykonos if flying on the same airline.
By Ferry
Prefer to take the scenic route? Ferries to Mykonos depart from:
- Piraeus Port (the main port of Athens)
- Rafina Port (closer to Athens airport)
From Piraeus, standard ferries take 5–6 hours, while high-speed ferries can get you there in 2.5–4 hours. From Rafina, the journey is slightly shorter.
Major ferry operators include:
- Blue Star Ferries
- SeaJets
- Golden Star Ferries
Ferries are a beautiful way to travel, offering sea views and a more relaxed pace. They’re especially enjoyable if you’re not in a rush or want to soak in the Aegean landscape. However, weather delays can happen, so check forecasts and schedules ahead of time.
Getting to Mykonos from Other Greek Islands
If you’re already exploring the Greek islands, getting to Mykonos is simple and convenient. The island serves as a key ferry hub, with frequent connections to nearby destinations. Whether you’re coming from Santorini, Paros, Naxos, or Crete, you’ll find plenty of options to get there.
From Santorini
High-speed ferries between Santorini and Mykonos take about 2 hours and run frequently in summer. It’s one of the most scenic and convenient routes for travelers visiting both islands.
From Paros or Naxos
Paros and Naxos are nearby Cycladic islands with regular ferry service to Mykonos. The journey usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the ferry type.
From Crete
Seasonal high-speed ferries connect Heraklion (Crete) to Mykonos. The trip takes about 4–5 hours. Routes operate mostly during summer months and are best booked in advance.
Arriving in Mykonos
By Air
Mykonos International Airport (JMK) is small but efficient. Located just 4 km from Mykonos Town (Chora), it’s a quick ride to most hotels. Taxis can be scarce in high season, so arranging a hotel transfer in advance is recommended.
By Ferry
All ferries arrive at the New Port in Tourlos, which is about 2.5 km from Mykonos Town. From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer. Some hotels offer pickups, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation ahead of time.
Travel Options to Mykonos
| Starting Point | Type of Transport | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Flight (via Europe) | 12–15 hours (total travel time) |
| Europe | Direct Flight | 2–3 hours |
| Athens | Plane | ~40 minutes |
| Ferry (Piraeus) | 5–6 hours (regular) | |
| Ferry (Piraeus) | 2.5–4 hours (fast) | |
| Ferry (Rafina) | 2–4.5 hours | |
| Santorini | High-Speed Ferry | ~2 hours |
| Paros/Naxos | Ferry | 30 mins–1 hour |
| Crete | Ferry | 4–5 hours |
Choosing the Best Option
- Fly if you’re short on time, especially from Athens or another European city. It’s the fastest and most efficient choice.
- Take a ferry if you want a more scenic, leisurely journey or are coming from another island.
- Combine both if you’re planning a multi-stop trip—fly into one island, ferry to another, and fly out from a different point.
Final Thoughts
Getting to Mykonos is part of the adventure. With so many options—from short flights to stunning ferry rides—it’s easy to find a route that fits your travel style. Whether you’re flying in from the U.S., cruising the Aegean from Santorini, or hopping over from Athens, your dream island escape is just a step away.
