Mykonos: Private Island Tour by Car with Beaches & Lighthouse

Summary

Mykonos island tour with local guide beaches lighthouse stops

You’ll ride across Mykonos by private car with a local driver-guide—stopping at quiet beaches like Agios Ioannis, taking windswept photos at Armenistis Lighthouse, wandering Ano Mera’s village square, and pausing for sweeping views above Chora. Expect salty air, laughter over mispronounced Greek words, and space to just take it all in—no rush.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to see the real Mykonos?” our driver grinned in the rearview mirror as we pulled away from the port. I remember my sandals sticking a little to the car mat — sand from yesterday’s beach still clinging on — and thinking, yeah, maybe I do. First stop was Agios Ioannis beach. The air smelled faintly salty and there was this hush, just a few locals chatting over coffee under faded umbrellas. Our guide pointed out Delos across the water, which I’d only read about in guidebooks. He told us a story about Apollo being born there — his voice got softer for a second and then he laughed when I tried to repeat the Greek name (I definitely butchered it).

The drive up to Armenistis Lighthouse felt longer than it looks on a map, but maybe that’s because we kept pulling over for photos. The road twisted past dry hills dotted with goats and those little white chapels you see everywhere here. At the top, wind whipped my hair straight into my face — not glamorous, but I didn’t care. The view of Mykonos Town from up there is something I still think about; all those cubed houses stacked like sugar cubes against blue water. We stood quietly for a bit while our guide fiddled with his phone camera (“the light’s better if you stand here,” he said), and honestly it was one of those moments you don’t plan for.

We rolled through Panormos and Agios Sostis next — quick waves to sunbathers and fishermen mending nets, then stopped at Ano Mera village. There was this bakery smell drifting out from somewhere (I never found out what it was), and old men playing backgammon outside a café. The Monastery of Tourliani looked almost too perfect in the sunlight; inside was cool stone and candle wax scent. Our guide explained some history but also just let us wander around — no pressure or schedule.

Last bit was Kalafatis Beach for more photos (the wind picked up again) and then Kalo Livadi as we looped back toward town. Somewhere along the way we passed a tiny church that might’ve been open — our driver shrugged, “sometimes yes, sometimes no.” That’s kind of how Mykonos feels: half-planned, half-surprise. We ended with one last panoramic stop above Chora as late afternoon light made everything look softer than usual. I still have sand in my bag from that day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mykonos Island Tour by Car

• Pass by Mykonos town
• Visit Agios Ioannis Beach
• Stop for photos at Armenistis Lighthouse
• Drive through Panormos beach
• Stop at Agios Sostis and Mamaronisi
• Stop at private church near Ftelia
• Visit Ano Mera village and Monastery
• Photo stop at Kalafatis beach
• Drive through Kalo Livadi beach
• Photo stop for panoramic Mykonos view

Top questions

How long is the Mykonos island tour?

The private tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your preferred location are included.

Which beaches will we visit on this Mykonos tour?

You’ll stop at Agios Ioannis Beach and Kalafatis Beach; you’ll also drive through Panormos, Agios Sostis, Ftelia, and Kalo Livadi beaches.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams/strollers and infant seats are available.

What landmarks are included besides beaches?

You’ll visit Armenistis Lighthouse (Faros), Ano Mera village with Tourliani Monastery, plus several photo stops including panoramic views of Mykonos Town.

Can I customize the itinerary?

The tour can be adjusted according to your needs if you contact your driver in advance.

Is lunch or food included in this tour?

No meals are included; bottled water is provided during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly driver-guide who picks you up wherever you’re staying on Mykonos (hotel or port). All fees are covered—plus bottled water along the way—and there’s time for photos at every stop before being dropped off wherever you like at the end.