For Cruise Ships: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town

If you’re visiting Mykonos on a cruise and looking for a way to unwind while still soaking in some of the island’s most famous sights, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation and self-guided discovery. The package includes around three hours at Elia Beach—a spot many reviewers praise for its pristine sands and clear waters—plus free time in Mykonos Town to wander its winding streets, browse boutique shops, or snap photos of landmarks like the Windmills and Little Venice.

What we love about this experience is the flexibility it offers. You get transportation that takes you comfortably from the port to the beach and town, plus optional free time that you can tailor to your mood—whether you want to lounge under an umbrella or explore the local art galleries. One potential drawback is that during peak season, the beach can get crowded, and some reviewers mentioned limited shade and slightly longer wait times for transport during busy days.

This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free way to enjoy Mykonos without committing to a full-day excursion or navigating public transport alone. It’s especially ideal for cruise passengers with limited time, but who still want to experience both the natural beauty and lively culture of the island.

Key Points

• Perfect for cruise travelers seeking a mix of beach relaxation and self-guided sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation makes reaching Elia Beach and Mykonos Town easy and stress-free.
• Flexibility with free time allows personalized exploration, ideal for different interests.
• Great value for money considering the included transport, guides, and access to top sights.
• Authentic experiences like enjoying beachside refreshments and wandering through iconic streets.
• Some crowding at popular spots might mean limited shade or quieter corners.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

How the Tour Starts: Convenient and Friendly Pick-Ups

Your journey begins with a pick-up from either Tourlos New Port or Old Port, where a representative will meet you holding their company sign. The process is straightforward, with reviews highlighting the punctuality of pickups and the professional attitude of the staff. After a quick 15-minute stop at the Old Port for a second pickup, you’re comfortably seated in an air-conditioned vehicle, ready for your Mykonos adventure.

The transportation is well-regarded for being punctual and comfortable. One traveler noted that the driver was friendly and knowledgeable, making the ride more engaging. However, some reviews mention that the bus can be quite warm, especially in the heat of summer, so dressing in layers and bringing a fan or cooling towel might be wise.

Elia Beach: Sun, Sand, and Watersports

Your first major stop is Elia Beach, often lauded for its stunning golden sands and crystalline waters. The beach is known as one of the most beautiful on the island, offering a balance of lively activities and chill-out spots. You’ll have approximately three hours here—enough time to swim, sunbathe, or try a few watersports if you’re feeling adventurous.

Reviewers frequently mention enjoying the beach’s laid-back vibe, with some choosing to relax in the back row of sunbeds so they can pull themselves into the sun when needed. The beach also has a local tavern, where you can indulge in Greek snacks or refreshments, making it easy to stay hydrated and fueled.

It’s worth noting that beach beds and umbrellas are available at an extra cost (around 35 EUR for a bed and umbrella), though some guests found the prices worth the comfort and shade they provided. A reviewer pointed out that the beach club staff was attentive, and the waters were notably clean and inviting, making it a real highlight of the tour.

The Self-Guided Exploration of Mykonos Town

After soaking up the sun, you’ll be transferred to Mykonos Old Port, from where you can start your own leisurely exploration of the town. The free time here is a highlight for many who appreciate wandering at their own pace.

Expect to walk into the iconic streets of the Old Town, where narrow paths wind past white-washed buildings, vibrant cafes, and art galleries. Landmarks like the Windmills, Little Venice, and Paraportiani Church are within a short walk and are often featured in traveler photos. One reviewer enjoyed the flexibility, noting that “the guide was great and the transportation to the beach was convenient,” which means you can easily extend your time in town if desired.

Several guests mentioned that the town’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the chance to browse boutique shops and snack on local food, made this part of the tour very special. Keep in mind, no vehicles are allowed in the town center, so you’ll need to walk about 10 minutes from the port to get into the heart of the action.

Returning and Additional Flexibility

The tour concludes with a short ride back from Old Port to the starting point. Reviewers appreciated the punctuality and the fact that they had the option to stay longer in town if they wished. Some travelers chose to take the sea bus back to their cruise ships, especially if the heat was intense or they preferred a quicker, cooler option.

One guest noted that “the tour was on time and we arrived back to the pier with plenty of time to get back on board,” which is reassuring for cruise travelers worried about timing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money

At $46.25 per person, this tour offers a lot for a relatively small price. With transportation, a knowledgeable host, and access to two of Mykonos’ key attractions—beach and town—it’s a bargain compared to booking separate transfers or renting scooters. Several reviews praised the price, with one mentioning it as “reasonably priced” and others highlighting the good value considering the included amenities and flexibility.

Authentic Relaxation and Exploration

One of the most appreciated aspects is the freedom to explore. Instead of a rigid guided tour, you get free time in Mykonos Town, allowing you to find your own favorite spots, whether it’s a cozy café, a boutique shop, or a scenic viewpoint. Many travelers remarked on the well-organized schedule and the helpful guides, like Christina and Lucy, who made the experience enjoyable with their friendly, informative approach.

The Beauty of Elia Beach

From the reviews, Elia Beach emerges as a genuine highlight. Guests rave about the crystal-clear waters, the large waves, and the well-maintained beach club. Some found the beach crowded but still beautiful, noting that the setup of loungers and umbrellas made for a comfortable experience. For those who enjoy a lively beach scene with options for watersports and good food, Elia is hard to beat.

The Charm of Mykonos Town

Walking through the winding streets of Mykonos Town offers a different kind of pleasure—vibrant, colorful, and full of character. Seeing landmarks like Little Venice and the Windmills, often mentioned in reviews, feels like stepping into a postcard. Several travelers appreciated the optional extra hours to explore or relax, which lets you tailor the experience to your preferred pace.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

Transport and Timing

The entire experience hinges on punctual pickups and transfers. While most reviews praise the organization, some mention that the bus can get uncomfortably warm, so dressing in light, breathable clothes is a smart move. The duration at the beach is about three hours, but actual times can vary slightly based on traffic and other factors.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring Mykonos Town, swimwear for the beach, and beach gear like towels, sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment are recommended. If you plan to stay in town longer, having a cash or card for shopping or snacks is a good idea.

Additional Costs

Be aware that beach beds and umbrellas are an extra charge—roughly 35 EUR per set. Food and drinks at the beach are paid separately, with some guests mentioning that the prices at the local tavern are on the higher side, but the quality is good.

Accessibility and Physical Fitness

Moderate physical fitness is advised, especially since you’ll be walking into town from the port and around the beach area. If mobility is an issue, consider the walking distances and whether you want to stay in the designated beach area without exploring further.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid way for cruise passengers to enjoy a taste of Mykonos without the hassle of planning transportation or rushing through sights. The combination of Elia Beach’s stunning scenery and the self-guided freedom in Mykonos Town provides a well-rounded experience, especially for those who love a mix of sun, sand, and authentic exploring.

The reviews show that guides like Christina and Lucy make a positive impression, often going beyond just transportation to share insights about the island. The value for money, given the included transport and flexible schedule, makes this a popular choice.

While the beach can get crowded, the natural beauty and lively town atmosphere more than compensate. It’s best suited for travelers who want an easygoing day, enjoy a relaxed pace, and are open to exploring on their own.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers with limited time?
Yes, it’s designed with cruise travelers in mind, offering a quick yet fulfilling taste of Mykonos’ highlights with flexible timings.

How long is the beach stay?
Approximately three hours at Elia Beach, which is enough time to swim, relax, and maybe try some watersports.

Can I stay longer in Mykonos Town?
Yes, the free time is optional. You can choose to return with the group or stay longer and find your own way back, such as via sea bus or taxi.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are paid separately. The tour price covers transport and access to the beach and town.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, beach towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes for walking, and cash or cards for extras like beach beds or snacks.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Most travelers note that the bus can get quite warm, so dressing lightly is recommended. It’s unclear if all vehicles are fully air-conditioned.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, as long as children are physically able to walk and enjoy beach activities; the moderate fitness level requirement applies.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size that balances social and personal space.

This experience provides a practical, enjoyable way to see Mykonos’ highlights with minimal fuss. Whether soaking up the sun at Elia Beach or exploring its iconic streets, you’ll find this tour offers a good balance of relaxation, authentic sights, and flexibility.