Mykonos: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Lunch

This comprehensive review covers a popular full-day tour of Mykonos that promises a taste of the island’s authentic side—away from the crowds and typical tourist traps. Offered by Mykonos Excursions, this experience combines scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, a farm-to-table lunch, and a walk through the charming streets of Mykonos Town. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 51 reviews, it seems to hit the mark for travelers seeking a well-rounded, authentic day on the island.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on local life and hidden gems. You’ll get a panoramic view of the island, visit a traditional village, and enjoy a home-cooked meal at a family farm—experiences that truly add depth and flavor beyond the usual sightseeing. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and involves some walking and stairs, especially in the town.

This tour is ideal for those who want more than just the usual guidebook stops. If you’re interested in local culture, scenic overlooks, and authentic Greek hospitality, this could be a perfect fit. Keep in mind, it’s a full 7-hour experience, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, active day exploring.

Key Points

• Authentic Focus: Experience the real Mykonos, beyond the busy tourist scenes.
• Panoramic Views: Capture stunning photos from scenic viewpoints around the island.
• Cultural Insights: Visit a traditional village and a historic monastery.
• Genuine Hospitality: Enjoy a homemade lunch on a family farm with local wines.
• Comprehensive Experience: Combined sightseeing, a farm visit, and a walking tour of Mykonos Town.
• Small Group Feel: Guided by knowledgeable locals, making the experience more personal.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Early Sightseeing

The adventure begins at the small port of Agios Ioannis, famous for its historic church and the saint’s cell where he once lived. From here, you get a glimpse of the island’s spiritual side. Passing by the airport, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Mykonos, an opportunity to snap photos of the island’s famous architecture and rugged landscape. According to reviews, many travelers cherish this moment as it offers a different perspective of the island—not just the busy tourist spots but the natural beauty and the activity at the airport, where planes take off and land amidst the scenery.

Visiting Ano Mera and Panagia Tourliani

The next stop is the peaceful, traditional village of Ano Mera—a stark contrast to the lively Mykonos Town. Here, you’ll find narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and a slower pace of life. The highlight is the Panagia Tourliani monastery, a beautifully preserved religious site that offers insight into local architecture and spiritual traditions. One reviewer appreciated the visit, noting that it adds a layer of authenticity to the tour, giving travelers a chance to see where locals still live and work. The village square also features stalls with fresh fruits and vegetables, making it a great place to soak in local flavors.

Farm-to-Table Lunch and Wine Tasting

The meal at a traditional family farm truly stands out. The lunch is homemade, with dishes reflecting classic Greek recipes, paired with local wines introduced during a brief presentation about the island’s winemaking traditions. One reviewer praised the “warm hospitality” and the quality of the farm-to-table experience, mentioning that much of the produce and wine are sourced directly from the farm itself. It’s a fantastic opportunity for food lovers and those interested in Greek cuisine to connect with the island’s culinary roots.

Beaches off the Beaten Path

After lunch, the tour heads to some of Mykonos’s less crowded beaches—Kalo Livadi, Kalafati, and Agia Anna. These spots are perfect for photography and relaxing by the sea. Swimming isn’t included, but you’ll get ample time for photos and enjoying the scenery. The reviews mention that the beaches are beautiful and less commercialized, ideal for those wanting a taste of authentic island life away from the packed tourist beaches.

Exploring Mykonos Town

The final part of the day involves a guided walk through Mykonos Town, covering highlights like Manto Square, the iconic windmills, and the charming Little Venice houses. The walk is led by guides like Christina or Maria, who are praised for their attention to detail and local knowledge. Reviewers rave about guides who are “fabulous” and “very careful with details,” making the town’s history and architecture come alive. You’ll also visit the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, a whitewashed masterpiece that’s a must-see.

Return and Flexibility

After the walking tour, the group is driven back to the starting point, passing by the famous church of Agios Nikolaos. The tour provides a comfortable 2-hour break at your hotel or designated drop-off, allowing some downtime after a full day.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $136 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a farm lunch. Entrance fees to the monastery are extra (around €2), and are paid separately, which is pretty standard for visits to religious sites. The tour lasts 7 hours—a well-paced day that balances sightseeing, culture, and leisure.

Many reviews emphasize the value of this experience. The lunch alone, with a full meal and local wines, offers great value compared to typical sightseeing tours where meals are extra or rushed. The guide’s storytelling and local insights make a big difference, especially since several reviewers mention guides like Christina and Maria as being engaging and attentive.

The group’s size tends to be small, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Pickup from hotels, cruise ports, or other locations makes it flexible and convenient, especially for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a more authentic, less commercialized view of Mykonos. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic viewpoints, cultural visits, and local food. The inclusion of a farm lunch with wine adds a genuine taste of Greek hospitality, making it perfect for foodies and wine lovers. If you prefer a leisurely pace and meaningful insights into local life, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility—some walking and stairs are involved, especially in the town and monastery. Also, if your main goal is to lounge on famous beaches or shop in town, you might find this tour’s focus on traditional villages and scenic viewpoints more rewarding.

This Mykonos full-day tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, culture, and authentic cuisine. The chance to explore hidden villages, enjoy a home-cooked Greek meal, and overlook the island’s more remote beaches makes it a well-rounded experience. Thanks to friendly, knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to step off the beaten path, travelers will leave with a deeper appreciation for the real Mykonos.

This tour is perfect for those who want a full, authentic day that combines sightseeing, local culture, and genuine hospitality without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a meaningful connection with the island beyond the usual tourist scenes.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with arrangements possible from your hotel, cruise ship port, or other locations in Mykonos.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but well-paced day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a homemade lunch at a traditional family farm is included, along with local wines. Additional entrance fees, like the monastery (€2), are paid separately.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s some walking involved, especially in towns and monasteries. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are advisable for the outdoor parts.

Can children participate?
Children can join if accompanied by an adult, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, as some walking and stairs are involved.

What makes this tour special?
The focus on local life, authentic food, scenic viewpoints, and personal guides like Christina and Maria help travelers connect deeply with the island’s spirit.

How much is the tour?
The price is $136 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the included experiences and transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for spontaneous travelers or those finalizing plans.

In sum, this Mykonos full-day tour offers a genuine, enriching glimpse into life on the island, combining beautiful scenery, cultural stops, and authentic Greek hospitality—all within a manageable, well-organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to see a different side of Mykonos, this experience is worth considering.