If you’ve got a layover in Mykonos, don’t let it go to waste sitting at JMK. The city, in Greece, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by Local Bus (KTEL Mykonos). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave JMK:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Greece. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Mykonos takes about 50 minutes by Local Bus (KTEL Mykonos). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Mykonos from JMK
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus (KTEL Mykonos) | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus (KTEL Mykonos) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Mykonos, budget roughly $60 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $33 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $17 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Mykonos, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What’s Worth Seeing in Mykonos
If you head into Mykonos, here are two things worth checking out:
Mykonos Windmills (Kato Mili) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Mykonos.
Little Venice (Alefkandra) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside JMK — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Goldair Handling Lounge
- Duty-Free Shop
Best Bites Near JMK
- In the city: Kalamaki Mykonos and To Ma’ereio are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mykonos.
- At the airport: Everest and Caffé Ritazza will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Luggage Storage at JMK
Luggage storage options at JMK can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Mykonos for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JMK, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mykonos itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greece that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at JMK
Long overnight layover? Your options at JMK include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greece also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Mykonos genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.