(Paradise Beach. Tel. 2289 022 852) Just outside Mykonos, Paradise is the place to hit when you want to feel the pulse of beach life. This self-service restaurant serves freshly made comfort food and has a convivial atmosphere—expect to see people dancing at the bar.

  (Mykonos Town. Tel. 2289 024 320) A taverna is an every day venue for Greeks—not too up-market and not too expensive. Come to Nikos to experience authentic Greek cuisine like moussaka, dolmadakia or the day’s fresh catch.

  (Agios Sostis Beach. Tel. ) On the island's north side, this small but happening place is nestled within a small grove of trees. Come here for fresh fish and greens. Best for lunch, but come early as it's popular. It can be tricky to find—ask for directions at Agios Sostis Beach.

  (Psarou Beach. Tel. 2289 022 440) One of the most elegant and exclusive restaurants on the island. Frequented by the Athenian elite, this is the spot to savour signature lobster dishes, desserts and watch yachts pass by.

  (Little Venice, Mykonos Town. Tel. 2289 026 083) The best choice for a romantic sunset drink, with incomparable sea views as well as the famous Mykonian Windmills.

  (Little Venice, Mykonos Town. Tel. ) With a balcony next to the Aegean Sea and sky views to the Milky Way, this hip little bar offers nightly live music, cabaret and the best martinis in these parts.

  (K Georgouli Street. Tel. 2289 022 669) Known by locals simply as 'Skandi', this is where everyone lets their hair down in flamboyant style. Alfresco dancing upstairs and downstairs. Just follow the rumbling sound and you'll find the most energetic bar-goers on the island.

Ilias Lalaounis jewellery shop sells beautiful work designed and made at its workshop in Athens, where a 4,000-year-old tradition of Greek art is kept alive (14 Polykandrioti Street, Mykonos Market. Tel. 2289 022 444).

Getting lost in among the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town is an integral experience for newcomers. The best point of departure is Matogianni Street.

The quayside Caprise offers the sea lapping at your feet and a magical view of those famous windmills. This is the place to find yourself—or lose yourself, you decide!

The beaches start to fill up in May as the island prepares for the busy summer season. This month also sees the completion of the new port, as Mykonos readies itself to accommodate the largest ships. Well worth a look.

 – Enjoy a change of pace from the bustle of Mykonos. Delos island is one of Greece’s most sacred spaces. Spend an afternoon admiring its historic ruins—with ongoing excavations among the most significant in the Mediterranean, this uninhabited island just off Mykonos is inspirational.