Mykonos: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town

Explore Mykonos on a Relaxing Beach and Town Tour for Cruise Passengers

This 6-hour tour in Mykonos offers a balanced mix of sun, sea, and culture, priced at $39.52 per person. It starts with a scenic drive from Tourlos New Port or Old Port to Elia Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, where travelers enjoy around 3 hours of leisure time to swim, sunbathe, or explore watersports. Afterward, the tour takes guests to Mykonos Town, where free time allows you to wander through narrow streets, browse boutique shops, visit landmarks, and sample local Greek snacks.

What makes this tour appealing is its combination of guided transportation and self-guided exploration, giving travelers flexibility. While the price is accessible, it’s worth noting that additional costs for sunlounger rentals and beach gear are not included. This tour is particularly well-suited for cruise ship passengers looking for a short, well-organized day with a blend of relaxation and cultural discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price at $39.52 per person for a 6-hour experience
• Includes transportation from Tourlos and Old Port to Elia Beach and Mykonos Town
• 3 hours of leisure at Elia Beach for swimming, relaxing, or watersports
• Self-guided free time in Mykonos Town for shopping, sightseeing, and snacks
• Guided drive with helpful commentary on the island’s highlights
• Easy meeting points outside the cruise ports

Departure Points and Transportation Logistics in Mykonos

This tour departs from Tourlos New Port and Old Port, with clear meeting points marked with the iTravel Mykonos sign. Guests board comfortable buses for a 10-minute drive to Elia Beach, followed by a 30-minute scenic transfer to Mykonos Town. The transportation is air-conditioned and designed for convenience, making it easy to relax between stops.

The return journey takes about 10 minutes back to the cruise ship pier, completing a well-paced itinerary. The small group size and organized greeters ensure smooth coordination throughout the day. It’s worth arriving promptly to maximize your 3 hours of beach time and 105 minutes in Mykonos Town.

Discovering Elia Beach: A Day of Sun and Watersports

Elia Beach is the highlight for many who join this tour. Known for its soft, warm sands and clear waters, it offers a perfect setting for swimming and snorkeling. Beach facilities are immaculate, and there are loungers and umbrellas for rent at roughly 35 EUR per person for both options. However, as some reviews note, beach staff may have specific rules, and guests should be prepared to sit anywhere on the sand if they choose not to rent a lounger.

Guests can enjoy approximately 3 hours to relax or explore watersports, though this is flexible for those who prefer just to unwind. The beach club staff are described as friendly, and the environment is clean and well-maintained. This time allows for a refreshing break from sightseeing, with plenty of natural beauty to admire.

Walking Through Mykonos Town’s Narrow Streets and Landmarks

After the beach, the tour takes you to Mykonos Town, where you have over 1.5 hours of self-guided exploration. The town features charming alleyways, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks. Guests are encouraged to stroll at their own pace, discovering hidden corners and sampling local Greek snacks at cafes along the way.

A recommended stop is Saki’s, noted for its Gyros at 8 Euros, promising a delicious and affordable meal. The town’s picture-perfect architecture and lively atmosphere are among the most appreciated aspects. While the free time is flexible, some reviews suggest that an extra hour could enhance the experience, allowing a deeper look into the town’s many galleries and shops.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural and Practical Highlights in Mykonos Town

The iconic streets of Mykonos are filled with whitewashed buildings, colored doors, and flower-filled balconies. Visitors can admire famous landmarks, such as the Old Port, while exploring the boutiques and art galleries. The tour provides tips and recommendations from guides, including best places to eat and local attractions.

Guests who prefer to stay longer in the town can do so independently, as the tour concludes with the option to return to the cruise ship or continue exploring. The 105-minute free time ensures a leisurely pace but remains brief enough to keep the day’s schedule manageable.

The Experience of Guided Transport and Local Greeters

The tour features comfortable buses with friendly drivers and English-speaking greeters who assist at pickup points. As reviews mention, the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often providing extra tips for dining and sightseeing. The board-first policy for guests with mobility issues reflects thoughtful organization.

This setup guarantees smooth transitions between stops and minimizes waiting times. However, language barriers can affect some instructions, as noted by a few guests, so carrying a map or guidebook might be helpful if you prefer more independence.

Cost and Additional Expenses at Elia Beach

The tour price of $39.52 covers transportation and guided assistance but excludes costs such as sunlounger and umbrella rentals—approximately 35 EUR for both. Guests should budget extra if they wish to rent beach gear or purchase food and drinks from cafes.

The value for money is considered good, especially given the scenic drive, organized itinerary, and short duration. It’s important to plan ahead for additional expenses to make the most of your beach day.

Reviews Reveal Strengths and Small Limitations

With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 62 reviews, this tour is praised for well-organized logistics, excellent guides, and beautiful beaches. Guests particularly appreciate Elsa’s helpfulness and friendly attitude, as well as the cleanliness and facilities at Elia Beach.

Some reviews mention that free time in Mykonos Town went by too quickly, and a few note language barriers or unclear instructions about returning to the port. These are minor considerations compared to the overall positive experience, especially for those seeking a short, relaxing excursion.

Ideal for Cruise Passengers Seeking a Balance of Relaxation and Exploration

This Mykonos tour offers good value with its organized transport, leisure time at the beach, and free exploration of the town. It’s ideal for cruise travelers who want a taste of the island’s beauty without the hassle of planning independent transport.

While the beach time is substantial, some travelers may find the free time in Mykonos Town slightly short and might prefer to explore more on their own afterward. The cost and professional guidance make this a reliable choice for those visiting Mykonos for a short stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transportation, beach time, and free exploration.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Tourlos New Port or Old Port and returns to the cruise ship pier at the end of the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a driver, and a greeter at pick-up locations. It does not include beach gear, food, or beach umbrella and lounger rentals.

How much free time do I get in Mykonos Town?
Guests have about 105 minutes to explore Mykonos Town at their own pace.

Can I stay longer at Elia Beach?
The tour provides around 3 hours at Elia Beach; extending this would require independent arrangements.

Are guides available during free time?
Guides lead you to the bus stops and provide commentary during transport, but self-guided exploration occurs during free time.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour allows boarding first for guests with mobility concerns, and the transportation is organized to accommodate such needs.

What should I bring?
Guests should pack beachwear, towels, sunscreen, change of clothes, sunglasses, and a camera.

Are pets allowed on this tour?
No, pets are not permitted.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby