Mykonos with the Myconian Collection: Which Hotel is Right for You?

My honest guide after visiting all15 of the Myconian hotel collection across the island

When people think of Mykonos, they often picture beach clubs, DJs and late nights. And yes — that side of the island absolutely exists.

But after recently spending time in Mykonos with the Myconian Collection, visiting 15 hotels across the island, I came away feeling like there’s a completely different side to Mykonos that many people miss.

Think peaceful luxury, incredible food, gorgeous sandy beaches, boutique hotels, breathtaking sea views and authentic Greek charm.

What surprised me most was just how different each area — and each hotel — feels.

You could stay in one part of Mykonos and think “this island isn’t for me”, while someone staying 20 minutes away could have a completely different experience.

That’s exactly why choosing the right hotel in Mykonos matters so much.

One thing I will say honestly – I do think Mykonos generally suits couples, groups of friends and adults more than families with very young children. The island is mainly built on steep hillsides and isn’t easily accessible for those with prams or walking difficulties. It’s also worth noting that it’s limited for vegetarian and vegan options.

It’s also brilliant for Greek island hopping, pairing particularly well with islands in the Cyclades like Paros, Naxos, Milos and Santorini.

---

Which Area of Mykonos is Right for You?

Before choosing a hotel, think about the type of Mykonos trip you actually want.

Mykonos Town (Chora)

Best for: first-timers, restaurants, nightlife, boutique shopping and atmosphere.

This is the iconic postcard version of Mykonos — whitewashed streets, chic restaurants, winding alleyways and buzzing energy.

Stay here if you want to be close to the action and enjoy evenings wandering into town.

Don’t stay here if you’re looking for a beach hotel and complete tranquility.

Ornos Beach

Best for: couples, beach access and a more relaxed feel.

Ornos offers a great balance of beach life and accessibility. You’re still close to Mykonos Town, but it feels calmer than staying in the centre and there’s a nice but smaller beach here.

Elia Beach

Best for: luxury resorts, beach lovers and families.

Elia Beach feels like a completely different side of Mykonos. Here, the focus is on relaxation, sea views and resort-style luxury. The beach itself is one of the best sandy beaches in Mykonos.

Stay here if you want easy beach access, resort facilities, multiple restaurants but a slower pace.

---

Mykonos Town Hotels

If being close to restaurants, nightlife and atmosphere matters most, this is where I’d look.

Deos – Best Luxury Hotel Close to Mykonos Town

If location is your priority, Deos stood out immediately.

This is the closest luxury hotel to Mykonos Town, meaning you get the best of both worlds — close enough to enjoy town, while still feeling removed from the crowds.

You can take the complimentary 3-minute buggy into town or walk in around 7 minutes

What surprised me was how peaceful it still felt despite the proximity. The elevated position gives some fantastic views over town, and there’s a lovely relaxed atmosphere.

The hotel has around 40 rooms, welcomes children 12+, and every room includes some form of water feature, either a Jacuzzi or private pool.

Another lovely touch is access to the beach club at Sunrise, including complimentary sunbeds. So even though Deos isn’t beachfront, you still get a beach experience included.

Best for:

• Couples
• First-time visitors to Mykonos
• Luxury travellers wanting convenience
• Guests who want restaurants and nightlife nearby without staying in the middle of it

---

Close to Mykonos Town

One thing I particularly liked about the Myconian close to town properties is that although they’re 3 separate hotels, they almost feel like a mini luxury resort.

One of the best things about staying in this cluster is that you’re not tied to just one hotel. Guests can enjoy facilities across multiple properties, creating a much bigger luxury experience.

• Large shared spa
• Open-air gym
• Multiple restaurants
• Access between hotels

The one exception is Naia, which remains adults-only.

You’re around 7–10 minutes’ walk into Mykonos Town, though it’s worth knowing the walk back is uphill.

Also worth noting: these hotels sit in a slightly windier spot — but in July and August, that breeze honestly feels very welcome.

The only thing missing? The beach. If beach access matters, I’d look at Ornos or Elia instead.

Korali – Best for Romance & Food Lovers

Out of the town hotels, Korali felt one of the most romantic.

This is the largest of the cluster with around 100 rooms, but still manages to feel elegant and intimate rather than busy.

As a member of Relais & Châteaux, food is a huge focus here. The hotel is home to an award-winning restaurant, and the dining experience feels genuinely special.

I particularly liked the suite categories with jacuzzis and sea views.

Although primarily couples-focused, Korali is actually a little more family-friendly than some of the other nearby hotels too, with room for cots and younger children.

Best for:

• Honeymoons
• Food lovers
• Couples wanting elevated dining experiences

Naia – Best Boutique Adults-Only Hotel

A boutique adults-only luxury with just 18 suites, making it feel incredibly intimate and private. It felt more like a hidden sanctuary than a traditional hotel.

One thing I loved? Breakfast is entirely à la carte, which immediately feels more luxurious than a buffet. There’s a really lovely Japanese restaurant, giving it a slightly more contemporary edge.

The hotel also gets sun all day, plus gorgeous sunset views.

Room categories are refreshingly simple here — essentially all suites are the same, with the main choice being whether you want a jacuzzi or private pool. The warm orange and green tones throughout the property give it a calming, boutique feel.

Best for:

• Adults-only holidays
• Honeymoon couples wanting privacy
• Boutique luxury

Kyma – Best Value for Money Near Mykonos Town

If you want luxury without paying top-end Mykonos prices, Kyma is probably one of the strongest options.

It feels slightly more relaxed and practical while still giving access to the same fantastic location and facilities.

This is one I’d recommend for:

• Families with older children
• LGBTQ+ travellers
• Guests wanting larger suites

There are also interconnecting room options, which can be really helpful for families.

My Pick in Mykonos Town

If it were my honeymoon: Korali
If I wanted adults-only boutique luxury: Naia
If location mattered most: Deos
If I wanted best value: Kyma

---

Ornos Beach: Relaxed But Close to the Action

If you like the idea of beach access but don’t necessarily want a large resort or to stay directly in busy Mykonos Town, Ornos is a really smart choice.

It feels noticeably more relaxed than Chora, but you’re still close enough to dip in and out of the action when you want to.

You’ll find:

• Beachfront restaurants
• A calmer atmosphere
• Easier beach days
• Quick access to Mykonos Town

For many couples, I actually think Ornos gives a really nice balance of everything.

Kove – Small Boutique Luxury

Out of all the properties I visited, Kove felt one of the most genuinely boutique.

With just 35 rooms, it has a much more intimate atmosphere than many luxury hotels in Mykonos and feels incredibly stylish without trying too hard.

The design is gorgeous — understated luxury with a chic, boutique aesthetic that feels effortlessly cool rather than overly flashy.

This is somewhere I’d recommend for couples wanting:

• A boutique hotel feel
• Stylish interiors
• A quieter atmosphere
• Easy access to both beach and town

One thing I particularly liked about Kove is that it feels genuinely personal, because it’s smaller, there’s an exclusivity to it that many larger luxury hotels lose.

Rooms with private pools are especially worth considering if budget allows — perfect for couples wanting that extra bit of privacy.

Location-wise, being near Ornos Beach means you can enjoy:

• Beach clubs nearby
• Great restaurants within walking distance
• Quick access to Mykonos Town via taxi

This is somewhere I’d recommend for couples who want luxury without feeling like they’re in a huge resort.

Best for:

• Couples
• Boutique hotel lovers
• Relaxed luxury

Things to consider:

• Smaller hotel with fewer facilities than Elia resorts
• Better for adults than families, would suit babies more than toddlers/older kids.

O by Myconian – Adults-Only Hotel with Personality

This is an adults-only, design-led hotel with a glamorous, playful feel. It instantly stood out as one of the more memorable properties stylistically. The interiors are bold, dramatic and modern — definitely a hotel with character. And yes… this one has a slightly saucier side.

A fun detail is that guests can actually request either a black or white room, depending on the aesthetic they prefer.

Rooms can be configured as King or Twin Which also makes it a good option for friends travelling together. They also have a large villa with private pool which would be amazing for a hen do or girls trip.

Best for:

• Adults-only holidays
• Friends travelling together
• Design lovers
• Guests wanting more vibe – there’s a DJ poolside

Things to consider:

• More personality and energy
• Steer clear if you’re looking for a calm retreat

---

Platis Gialos: Best for Beach Clubs

If you want a more classic “Mykonos holiday” feel — beach clubs, restaurants, easy access to famous spots and a lively atmosphere without staying in the centre of town — Platis Gialos is one of the best areas to stay.

One of the biggest advantages of staying here is location. You’re perfectly placed for some of Mykonos’ most famous beach clubs within walking distance:

• Nammos — glamorous, iconic and celebrity-favourite.
• Scorpios — arguably one of the most famous sunset beach clubs in Europe.

Myconian Ambassador – Great All rounder

This was the first five-star hotel on Mykonos. And it still feels incredibly relevant today. As a member of Relais & Châteaux, food plays a huge role here and the overall standard feels elevated and polished.

Located in Platis Gialos, Ambassador has one of the best positions on the island for people wanting beach and club access, restaurants nearby and a more social atmosphere, without staying somewhere overly hectic.

Best for:

• First-time visitors
• Couples
• Beach lovers
• Guests wanting access to beach clubs

Things to consider:

• More lively area than Elia or Sunrise
• Better for people wanting atmosphere than total seclusion

---

Elia Beach: Luxury Resort Side of Mykonos

If Mykonos Town is about atmosphere and nightlife, Elia Beach is where you come to properly relax. This side of the island feels completely different.

Instead of winding streets and bars, think:

• Long sandy beaches
• Resort-style luxury
• Incredible sea views
• Slower pace of life

Located around 20 minutes from Mykonos Town, Elia Beach is ideal if you want to switch off and enjoy your hotel.

Some of the island’s best hotels are here. The beach itself is stunning — long, sandy and one of the nicest I saw in Mykonos.

What’s especially brilliant about staying within the Myconian Collection at Elia is how connected everything feels.

Guests can enjoy:

• A private beach section with sunbeds included
• Complimentary beach shuttles
• Dine around options between hotels
• An app to easily reserve restaurants
• Access to sister properties
• A water taxi service along the south coast beaches

That water taxi is actually a really underrated perk because it makes beach hopping incredibly easy.

If you’re deciding where to stay in Mykonos and want a proper luxury beach holiday, this is where I’d focus.

Myconian Imperial & Royal – Classic Luxury Resort

I’m grouping Imperial and Royal together because, honestly, they feel like one resort. They sit side by side and share the same overall atmosphere and facilities. If you love classic Greek luxury, these are likely to appeal.

The first thing you notice is the stunning all-white design aesthetic, with pools overlooking the sea and that very classic Mykonos feel.

Both are members of Leading Hotels of the World, which gives a good indication of the level of luxury.

Imperial feels slightly more contemporary and design-led. Royal feels a little more classic. In reality, both are beautiful and I wouldn’t overthink the difference too much.

One useful tip: Superior rooms are noticeably bigger, while standard rooms are very similar but without the additional sofa/living space. Jacuzzi and private pool rooms are available.

The main infinity pool overlooking the sea at Imperial is particularly gorgeous.

Best for:

• Couples
• Honeymoons
• Luxury travellers
• First-time visitors wanting a proper five-star resort

Things to consider:

• Larger hotels rather than boutique
• More resort-style than intimate

Myconian Villa Collection – Best for Families, Groups & Privacy

If you’re travelling as a family or group and want privacy, this hotel stood out immediately.

The first clue that this place is a little different? There’s a Rolls Royce parked outside.

Villa Collection feels noticeably more exclusive and private than some of the larger resorts nearby. Because it’s smaller, it feels quieter and more personal.

Another huge benefit? Connecting rooms are always guaranteed, which is such a bonus for families. Accommodation ranges from 2–6 bedroom villas, making it ideal for larger groups.

Design-wise, this hotel feels very Instagrammable. With modern interiors, black accents and pink and gold styling. There’s also a fantastic Thalasso Spa, which feels like a destination in itself.

Best for:

• Families & Groups
• Celebrations
• Luxury privacy

Avaton – Best for Younger Luxury Travellers

If some of the other Elia hotels feel classic and romantic, Avaton definitely felt more youthful. It has more energy and a stronger personality. Located slightly further back, it attracts a younger crowd and feels more fashion-led. The styling stood out immediately:
black and red tones, dramatic interiors and a more opulent feel.

This is one I’d recommend to:

• Younger couples
• Friends travelling together
• Guests wanting more atmosphere -without wanting a full-on party hotel.

Panoptis Escape – Best for Wow Views & Exclusive Buyouts

This hotel honestly felt very special. Positioned right at the top of the hill, the views are spectacular — with sea views stretching out on both sides. The property has just 18 suites, creating a boutique feel that’s very peaceful and private. It’s also part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Design-wise, this was one of my favourites with boho luxury, earthy textures and tribal influences where the buildings are seamlessly built into the rocks.

Children aged 8+ are welcome, making it a nice middle ground between adults-only and family-friendly.

One major selling point here is that the property can almost entirely be bought out, with up to 21 rooms available for private events, celebrations or milestone trips.

Best for:

• Luxury escapes
• Milestone celebrations
• Exclusive buyouts
• Couples wanting wow-factor views

Utopia – Best for Elevated Romance

High on the hill overlooking Elia, Utopia feels romantic, elegant and very classic Mykonos. This is the kind of hotel that instantly feels luxurious with a whitewashed design and boho wood finishes.

It’s also part of Relais & Châteaux, meaning food and service are a major focus. It feels refined and elevated without being stuffy.

Best for:

• Honeymoons
• Romantic escapes
• Food lovers

My Picks at Elia Beach

For honeymooners: Utopia
For classic luxury: Imperial / Royal
For families & groups: Villa Collection
For younger couples: Avaton
For wow-factor luxury/buy outs: Panoptis Escape

---

Almiriki Beach – The Peaceful Side of Mykonos

Myconian Sunrise

If you’ve ever thought “Mykonos probably isn’t for me” because of the party reputation, this is the hotel I’d tell you to look at. Sunrise felt like a completely different side of the island. Peaceful, traditional, relaxed and genuinely chilled. Located away from the busier parts of the island, Sunrise is around 20 minutes from Mykonos Town, but the hotel runs a complimentary shuttle, making it very easy to dip in and out of the action.

Most guests still head into town in the evenings, but come back here to completely switch off.

This property felt very different from the polished, glamorous luxury of Elia. Instead, Sunrise leans into barefoot luxury, traditional Greek charm with a relaxed atmosphere and peaceful surroundings.

There’s a really authentic feel here that I loved. The beach is genuinely gorgeous too — quiet, relaxed and without loud music blasting all day – which, in Mykonos, feels quite refreshing.

Guests staying at Sunrise have access to Almiriki Beach Club, where sunbeds are included. This is not a party beach club. No DJs. No loud music. No trying too hard. Just a beautiful beach and a really chilled atmosphere.

The word Almiriki actually means wild — but in the natural, untouched sense rather than wild partying.

One honest point to mention: Rooms are on the smaller side. But for many people, especially those planning to spend time outdoors, I don’t think that’s necessarily a dealbreaker. There are also family pool room options and incredible beach suites with jacuzzis.

As a member of Relais & Châteaux, food and service are still held to a very high standard.

Best for:

• Couples wanting peace and quiet
• Families
• Guests avoiding party Mykonos
• Relaxed luxury travellers
• Value for money

Things to consider:

• More secluded location
• Around 20 minutes to Mykonos Town
• Better for relaxing than nightlife

---

Mykonos Top Tips

Visit Mykonos Town in the Afternoon

If you can, avoid heading into Mykonos Town in the middle of the day.

Why? Cruise ships. When cruise passengers arrive, town can feel noticeably busier. Instead, I’d recommend visiting in the late afternoon or evening.

Mykonos Town Is Completely Pedestrianised

One thing I loved? The centre of town is fully pedestrianised.

Which means hidden restaurants and bars and endless little alleyways to explore. It’s one of those places where getting lost is part of the fun.

Don’t Miss the Open-Air Cinema

This was one of my favourite discoveries. Watching a film outside on a warm Greek evening feels incredibly special and is such a nice alternative to restaurants or bars one night.

There Are Over 1,000 Chapels in Mykonos

You’ll spot them everywhere — perched on hillsides, tucked into streets and overlooking the sea. They’re part of what gives the island so much character.

Visiting the Top Party Spots

There are several top party spots in Mykonos – you can pay a lot of money to reserve a table or sunbed in advance with many having minimum spends. OR…. if you’re in a small group you can always chance turning up early and just paying as you go which is much cheaper. Beach clubs, head over just before sunset when people are leaving, stay until around 10pm and then head to Mykonos town to get into the bars early before everyone else and dodge the traffic too!

🏝️Top luxury expensive beach clubs (Day)
Santanna
Kalua
Nammos
Spilia
Solymar
Zuma
Beefbar
Principote
Hippie fish
Jackie o (holds drag shows)

🏖️All rounder beach clubs (day) more budget
Tropicana (stays open till 2am)
Paradise (stays open till 2am)
Super paradise (stays open till 2am)
Pinky beach
Pasaji

💃🏻Evening places (not clubs)
dress up dinner or party
Scorpios
Alemagou
180 sunset
Numi
Buddha bar
Zuma

🍴Restaurants in town for dinner:
The garden of mykonos
Noema
Interni
Coya
Lio ( expensive show dinner but worth it)
Raya
Nice n easy
Mamalouka
D’angelo

🍴Restaurants lunch and dinner outside of town:
Apaggio
Tasos taverna
Rises farm
Kikis taverna
Saint Stefanos cafe ( taverna on beach)

---

Delos: The Side of Mykonos Everyone Should Experience

If you do one excursion while in Mykonos, make it Delos.

Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically important places in Greece. It’s believed to be the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and was once one of the most significant trading and religious centres in the ancient world.

My tip for visiting Delos: Go in the afternoon and book a guide.

Having someone explain the history makes such a difference and brings everything to life. Without a guide, you can easily miss the stories behind what you’re looking at.

For anyone wanting to experience the non-party side of Mykonos, this is such a worthwhile trip.

---

Final Thoughts

Mykonos can be glamorous, romantic, peaceful, beachy, foodie-focused or lively — but your experience depends entirely on where you stay.

And after visiting over 15 Myconian Collection hotels, I can honestly say there’s a property for almost every travel style. If you’re not sure which hotel is right for you, that’s exactly where I can help.

At Holirays, I tailor every recommendation around:

• Budget
• Travel style
• Whether you prefer beach or town
• Adults-only vs family-friendly
• Food preferences
• Luxury level

Because in Mykonos, the right hotel really does make all the difference.

Thinking about Mykonos? Get in touch and I’ll help match you to the perfect Myconian hotel.