Mykonos is an island known for partying, but is that how it got its name? If you want to find out the real Mykonos meaning and history that lies behind its name, you don’t have to search for a dictionary. We’ll try to give you some answers in this blog post. This fantastic Greek island also has a few nicknames, all based on its many characteristics that make it so iconic and recognizable all across the globe.

In What Area of Greece Is Mykonos Located?

This popular Greek island belongs to the Cyclades, a group of islands located in the Aegean Sea. Some of its famous neighboring islands include Tinos, Paros, Syros, and Naxos. It is located in the southern part of the country, and you can easily get to Mykonos from any part of Europe – by cruise, ferry boat, or plane. Most tourists visit the Cyclades during the summer season, but if you want to avoid the crowds, visiting after the Mykonos season ends can be a good option.

Aerial view of Chora

Open up a map and try to spot Mykonos, one of many islands in the Aegean Sea

Nicknames, Synonyms, Definitions – What Words Do People Use to Describe Mykonos?

This place is also known as The Island of the Winds because of the strong wind that blows across its mostly flat ground. Because the island is so windy, you’ll hardly feel the heat even during the summer. Besides that, you will mostly hear people refer to it as the party island – this nickname is obvious, right? Everyone knows Mykonos is one of the best places for partying in the world.

How Is Mykonos Pronounced and Does This Term Have a Translation?

Tourists are often afraid they won’t be able to pronounce some Greek words correctly, even if their English is good. Although there are quite a few words that could break one’s tongue, Mykonos is not one of them. Whether you’re speaking English or Greek, the pronunciation of this word is pretty much the same, and it goes like this mi – kuh – nos. In Greek, it is written as Μύκονος, which you might notice on some local signs or in a dictionary.

View of Mykonos town

It’s recommended to get familiar with the island’s history before you travel here

The Story Behind Mykonos Meaning – Who Was Mykonos?

Have you ever had a chance to learn something about Greek mythology? This is probably one of the most popular as well as one of the most controversial mythologies in the world, and it involves everything – love, hate, betrayal, unexpected plots and outcomes, monstrous creatures, and much more.

According to the stories, one of the heroes from Greek legends was Mykonos – the son of the King of Delos, Anios, who was the son of Apollo and the nymph Roious. If you don’t have a book about Greek mythology, this is something that you can also find in a dictionary if you search for this word.

Mythological Background of the Island

According to mythology, the story of how this rocky island came to be is connected to the battle between Olympian gods and giants – Gigantomachy. Allegedly, Hercules managed to get giants to Mykonos, where he killed them and buried them under the rocks. In a slightly different version of the story, Hercules killed the giants, and the island was created from their petrified bodies, which is why it is so rocky.

The island is named after its first ruler, the local town hero – Mykonos. His grandfather, Apollo, was born on the neighboring island of Delos, which was one of the most significant spiritual centers during ancient times. Today, Delos is one of the most popular archeological sites, and you can book a yacht for a day trip from Mykonos to visit historical monuments and learn all about these interesting legends.

Archeological site of Delos

Delos has a rich history and mythological background, just like Mykonos

Why Is Mykonos Important?

You have probably already heard about Mykonos island before, but maybe back then, you didn’t understand the meaning of its name, origin, and importance. What attracts so many tourists to this island nowadays? Could it be just historical importance? This is actually just one of many reasons.

Apart from beautiful museums, archeological sites, and famous art galleries, this place also has some of the best hotels and beaches in Greece, many gorgeous private villas in Mykonos with enchanting sea views, amazing shopping spots, popular nightclubs and beach bars, as well as restaurants serving delicious food.

Thousands of Tourists From All Over the World Come to This Place Every Year

It is clear that Mykonos has something for everyone, so it’s no wonder that this place is so popular among tourists. Statistics show that over half a million tourists visit it yearly (keep in mind the fact that it has only around 12,000 permanent residents). It is one of the top destinations in Europe, and whether you want to spend a honeymoon here, plan a wedding, have an unforgettable bachelorette party with your friends, or throw an exciting birthday, this destination will certainly be the first one on your list.

What’s so great about it is the fact that this is actually quite a small island, so everything is close and it’s quite simple to get around. Exploring its hidden streets with luxury shops, traditional tavernas, and historical churches, as well as visiting the famous windmills and Little Venice can all be done in just a few days. Ideally, you would need five days to explore every corner properly.

Girl admiring the town view

This place attracts many tourists, and it is not without a good reason

It’s Time to Visit This Place and Improve Your Knowledge of Greek Mythology

Now that you understand the importance of Mykonos and know all about its historic background, you can plan a stay in one of many Mykonos villas – it will be an unforgettable vacation, that’s for sure. The Ace VIP can help you find the best accommodation among the beautiful Mykonos villas for rental.

To make this experience even better, you can add renting a yacht to your travel plan and sail around Mykonos and the surrounding islands while learning all about the exciting myths and legends connected to this part of Greece. Unfortunately, you won’t see any giants, but you’ll probably run into many celebrities, so you’ll definitely have a blast! What are you waiting for? Let’s start planning your upcoming vacationcontact us today and our team at The Ace VIP will be at your disposal.