Chora Travel Guide for 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive Chora Mykonos travel guide, your ultimate companion to this stunning Greek island.

Chora, also known as Mykonos Town, is the heart of Mykonos Island. This charming town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, whitewashed houses adorned with bougainvillaea, and iconic windmills standing proudly against the Aegean Sea.

Its rich history dates back to the ancient Greeks, and its cultural significance is evident in its numerous churches and museums. But what truly sets Chora apart is its unique blend of traditional Greek charm and cosmopolitan luxury.

In this place, the old and the new converge to create an absolutely irresistible vibrant atmosphere.

Why visit Chora?

Chora is the epitome of the Greek island experience. Here are five reasons why it should be on your travel bucket list:

Historical Charm: Chora is steeped in history, with landmarks like the Panagia Paraportiani, a beautiful church dating back to 1475, and the Archaeological Museum, home to artefacts from the nearby island of Delos.

Vibrant Nightlife: Known for its lively bars and nightclubs, Chora offers a nightlife experience. From chic cocktail bars in Little Venice to wild beach parties at Super Paradise, there’s something for every party-goer.

Stunning Beaches: Mykonos is famous for its beaches, and Chora is no exception. From the famous Megali Ammos Beach to the quieter Agios Stefanos, there’s a beach for every preference.

Delicious Cuisine: Chora is a food lover’s paradise. Indulge in traditional Greek dishes at a local restaurant, or enjoy a fine dining experience with sea views at a luxury establishment.

Shopping Extravaganza: From high-end fashion boutiques to quaint souvenir shops in the narrow alleys, shopping in Chora is an experience.

Reasons to Love Chora

Chora is a place that captures your heart, and here are five reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:

The People: The locals in Chora are known for their warm hospitality, making visitors feel right at home.

The Architecture: The town’s unique Cycladic architecture, with its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, is a sight to behold.

The Sunsets: Watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea from a balcony in Little Venice is a truly magical experience.

The Energy: There’s a palpable energy in Chora, whether it’s the buzz of the daytime crowds or the vibrant nightlife.

The Food: From fresh seafood to local delicacies, the food in Chora is simply delicious.

Where to go

Chora is full of exciting places to visit. Here are our top five recommendations:

Little Venice: This picturesque neighbourhood is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a romantic dinner, or a drink with a sunset view.

Old Port: The Old Port is a bustling area with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s also the departure point for boat trips to the nearby island of Delos.

Panagia Paraportiani: This iconic church is one of the most photographed spots in Chora.

Ano Mera: A short drive from Chora, Ano Mera is a tranquil village known for its monastery and traditional tavernas.

Aegean Maritime Museum: Learn about the region’s nautical history at this fascinating museum.

What to do

There’s no shortage of things to do in Chora. Here are our top five suggestions:

Explore the Narrow Streets: Get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets in Chora, each turn revealing a new surprise – a quaint cafe, a boutique shop, or a stunning view of the sea.

Visit the Windmills: The iconic windmills of Mykonos, known as Kato Mili, are a must-visit. They offer a fantastic view of the town and the sea, especially at sunset.

Take a Boat Trip to Delos: Just a short boat ride from the Old Port, the island of Delos is an important archaeological site worth exploring.

Enjoy the Beaches: Spend a day at one of the many beautiful beaches around Chora, whether the popular Megali Ammos Beach or the quieter Agios Stefanos.

Experience the Nightlife: From chic bars in Little Venice to vibrant beach clubs, experiencing the nightlife is a must in Chora.

Local foods to try

Greek cuisine is renowned worldwide, and Chora offers plenty of opportunities to savour it. Here are five local foods you must try:

Souvlaki: This popular Greek fast food consists of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer.

Moussaka: A traditional Greek dish of layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Tzatziki: A refreshing dip or sauce made of yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill.

Louza: A local cold-cut speciality, similar to ham, often served as a meze.

Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Souvenirs to buy

When it comes to souvenirs, Chora offers a wide range of options. Here are five suggestions:

Local Products: Olive oil, honey, and wine are some local products that make great souvenirs.

Handmade Jewellery: Mykonos is known for its handmade jewellery, and you’ll find many shops selling unique pieces in Chora.

Greek Sandals: Handmade Greek sandals are stylish and practical souvenirs.

Ceramics: Beautifully crafted ceramics, often featuring traditional Greek designs, are another excellent souvenir option.

Art: Chora is home to several art galleries where you can buy original artwork or prints.

Is Chora expensive?

Like the rest of Mykonos, Chora is known for its luxury offerings, and it can be pretty expensive, especially during the peak summer season. However, with some planning and budgeting, it’s possible to enjoy all that Chora offers without breaking the bank.

Helpful recommendations

Stay Hydrated: The summer heat in Chora can be intense, so stay hydrated.

Respect the Local Customs: When visiting churches, dress modestly and respect the local customs.

Plan Ahead: Chora can get quite busy in the summer, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is a good idea.

Try the Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine. Whether it’s a meal at a luxury restaurant or a quick bite at a local

Insider Tips for Chora

Embrace the Dawn at Paraportiani Church

Start your day early and witness the mesmerising sunrise at Paraportiani Church. This iconic whitewashed structure, nestled in the heart of Chora, offers a breathtaking view of the dawn breaking over the Aegean Sea. It’s a tranquil moment that most tourists miss, but it’s a daily spectacle for us locals. Remember, the early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the most stunning sunrise in Mykonos.

Discover the Hidden Alleys of Chora

Chora is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, each one holding its own secret. Spend an afternoon getting lost in these charming alleys. You’ll stumble upon quaint boutiques, hidden tavernas, and colourful houses that aren’t on any tourist map. It’s like stepping into another world, one that’s uniquely Mykonian. Don’t forget to try the local delicacy, louza, from a small family-run deli you’ll find tucked away in one of these alleys.

Visit the Lesser-Known Windmills

Everyone knows about the famous Kato Mili windmills, but few venture to the lesser-known ones scattered around Chora. These windmills, once the lifeblood of the island’s economy, offer a glimpse into Mykonos’ past. They’re also the perfect spot for a picnic with a view. Pack some local cheese, fresh bread, and a bottle of local wine, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon under the warm Mykonian sun.

Experience the Local Art Scene

Chora is home to a thriving art scene that often goes unnoticed by tourists. Visit the local galleries and studios, where you can meet the artists and even purchase a piece of original Mykonian art. It’s a great way to support the local community and take home a unique souvenir.

Join the Locals at a Panigiri

If you’re lucky enough to be in Chora during a panigiri, don’t miss it. These traditional village festivals, filled with music, dancing, and plenty of food and wine, are the heart and soul of Mykonian culture. It’s an experience that will make you feel like a true local.