Mykonos: Shore Excursion with Cruise Ship Terminal Pickup
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Transport Access
History
Mykonos rose to prominence in ancient times as a sacred island dedicated to Apollo’s son, with the iconic windmills built in the 16th century by Venetians to mill wheat using Aegean gusts. The labyrinthine town layout deliberately confused marauding pirates, preserving its Cycladic charm through centuries.
Today, Mykonos blends mythic heritage with cosmopolitan allure, its whitewashed alleys and azure-domed churches symbolizing Greek island life while welcoming millions of cruise visitors annually.
Highlights
- Capture panoramic Aegean vistas from the historic Armenistis Lighthouse
- Relax at golden Kalafati Beach with its turquoise waters and water sports
- Explore traditional Ano Mera village and the 16th-century Panagia Tourliani Monastery
- Wander the iconic Windmills overlooking the sea at sunset hues
- Stroll through charming Little Venice with waves lapping at colorful balconies
- Admire the architectural marvel of Paraportiani Church, a whitewashed masterpiece
- Enjoy guided insights into Mykonos’ pirate-proof maze of narrow streets
Full Description
Step straight from your cruise ship into Mykonos’ legendary beauty on this seamless 4-hour shore excursion designed exclusively for cruise passengers. Your adventure begins with pickup right at the terminal—look for the i•Travel Mykonos sign—and continues aboard a comfortable air-conditioned coach.
First, ascend to Armenistis Lighthouse for sweeping views across the Aegean to neighboring islands, then dip to Kalafati Beach where golden sands meet crystal waters. In tranquil Ano Mera, discover the ornate Panagia Tourliani Monastery and enjoy free time in the village square.
The finale unfolds in Mykonos Town: a guided walking tour through bougainvillea-draped alleys to the Windmills, Little Venice, and the sculptural Paraportiani Church. End at the vibrant waterfront with time to shop or sip before tendering back.
Why Choose This Experience?
Tailored for cruise schedules with guaranteed on-time return, this excursion eliminates port logistics and maximizes island highlights in just 4 hours. English-speaking local guides reveal insider stories beyond typical tourist paths.
The mix of scenic drives and a leisurely town walk suits active travelers seeking both photo stops and cultural depth, with drop-off near sea-buses for easy ship access.
What’s Included
- Direct pickup at Mykonos New Port or cruise tender dock
- Round-trip transportation in air-conditioned coach
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Guided walking tour of Mykonos Town
- Photo stops at Armenistis Lighthouse and Kalafati Beach
- Visit to Ano Mera village and Panagia Tourliani Monastery
- Free time in Ano Mera square
- Bottled water and onboard WiFi
- Digital map and island highlights brochure
- Assistance with tender tickets and ship return
- Small group size for personalized experience
- Flexibility for cruise delay adjustments
Itinerary
- Pickup at Mykonos New Port or Cruise Tender Terminal
- Coach transfer (20 minutes)
- Armenistis Lighthouse – photo stop, guided tour, scenic views (30 minutes)
- Coach transfer (40 minutes)
- Kalafati Beach – photo stop, guided tour, free time (15 minutes)
- Coach transfer (15 minutes)
- Ano Mera – village walk, monastery visit, free time (20 minutes)
- Coach transfer (30 minutes)
- Mykonos Town – guided walking tour (20 minutes)
- Windmills of Mykonos – photo stop, guided tour (15 minutes)
- Little Venice – photo stop, guided tour, scenic walk (20 minutes)
- Paraportiani Church – photo stop, guided tour (15 minutes)
- End at Mykonos Town Hall (near sea-buses and tenders)
Pricing
From $99 per person
Meeting Point
Pickup 15 minutes before start time directly at your cruise ship terminal (Mykonos New Port or tender dock). Stay where your ship arrives—guide will come to you holding i•Travel Mykonos sign.
How to Get There
- Remain at the cruise terminal after disembarking
- Look for guide with i•Travel Mykonos sign 15 minutes before tour start
- Provide cruise ship name and arrival time during booking
- Guide will verify passenger list and assist with group assembly
- Boarding is prioritized for on-time ship return
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and steps
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Light layers for sea breeze
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Small amount of cash for souvenirs or café stops
- Cruise card and photo ID
Know Before You Go
- Tour exclusively for cruise ship passengers (not ferry arrivals)
- Ends in Mykonos Town near sea-buses and tenders
- Moderate walking on uneven surfaces and steps
- No luggage, strollers, or non-folding wheelchairs
- No food/drinks or smoking in vehicle
- Full refund if ship doesn’t dock and tour can’t be rescheduled
- Itinerary may adjust due to weather or port conditions
Reviews
- The guide’s deep knowledge revealed Mykonos’ rich history and hidden corners we’d never have found alone—far more than just beaches and nightlife.
- A perfect quick dive into the island’s soul: lighthouse views, village charm, and town highlights all in one efficient, enjoyable morning.
- Loved the seamless pickup, insightful commentary, and just the right pace to see Mykonos’ iconic sights before sailing on.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What happens if my cruise ship is delayed or doesn’t dock?
If your ship arrives late, the guide waits up to 60 minutes past scheduled pickup and adjusts the itinerary to ensure on-time return. In case of major delays, the tour operates a shortened version focusing on Mykonos Town. If the ship cannot dock at all due to weather or mechanical issues and no rescheduling is possible on another port day, a full refund is automatically processed within 48 hours. You’ll receive a text confirmation from the operator. Cruise line port agents are in direct contact with the tour company for real-time updates. This guarantee is exclusive to cruise passengers. No action is needed from you—refunds appear on the original payment method.
Is the walking tour difficult for seniors or those with mobility issues?
The final hour involves a moderate-paced walking tour on cobblestone alleys, uneven pavement, and occasional steps in Mykonos Town. Total walking distance is about 1.5 km with frequent stops. The tour is not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs, strollers, or those unable to manage steps. Guests with limited mobility can remain with the coach driver during the town portion and rejoin at the Windmills photo stop. The guide carries foldable stools for brief rests. Earlier stops (lighthouse, beach, village) involve minimal walking on flat ground. Notify the operator at booking for seating near coach door or extra assistance.
Can I return to the ship from Mykonos Town on my own?
Yes—the tour ends at Mykonos Town Hall, a 5-minute walk from the sea-bus and tender pier. Your guide provides a clear map and directions to the departure point. Tenders run every 15–20 minutes back to anchored ships. Allow 30 minutes buffer before “all aboard” time. If you prefer escorted return, inform the guide and the coach can drop you directly at the port (subject to traffic). Free time in Ano Mera also allows early departure with the group if needed. The waterfront location offers cafés and shops while you wait.
Are entrance fees to the monastery included?
No entrance fee is required for Panagia Tourliani Monastery—visits are free and open to the public. The monastery interior is included in the 20-minute Ano Mera stop with guide commentary on its 16th-century iconostasis and bell tower. Donations are appreciated but optional (a small box is available inside). Other stops (lighthouse, beach, Windmills, Little Venice, Paraportiani) are all outdoors and free. The only potential cost is personal expenses like coffee or souvenirs in Ano Mera square. Your guide carries change if needed. This keeps the tour price all-inclusive for planned activities.
Can I bring food or drinks on the coach?
No food or drinks are allowed inside the air-conditioned coach to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all passengers. Bottled water is provided onboard and can be consumed during transfers. Eating is permitted during the 20-minute free time in Ano Mera at local cafés (try Greek coffee or loukoumades). Quick snacks can be purchased there. The short duration (4 hours) and frequent stops make fasting easy. For guests with dietary needs, sealed snacks can be stored in a small bag and eaten outside the vehicle at stops. The guide can recommend quick bites in Mykonos Town after the tour ends.
