There is something magical about sipping a glass of local wine while watching the sun slip into the Aegean Sea as the afterglow tinges traditional, white-washed Cycladic houses with glorious shades of rose, purple and gold. Ancient Greeks believed Helios, the Sun God, caused sunsets by driving his fiery chariot into the sea. Standing at water’s edge in Mykonos, watching the sky slowly turn from purple to inky black, you almost believe it.

After dark, world-famous DJs mix tracks in clubs that stay open well past dawn. A-listers who’ve arrived on mega-yachts and private jets head for VIP tables and private parties. But this is Greece — the birthplace of democracy — and (almost) everyone is welcome on the dance floor, which can be a simple sandy beach or one of the ultra-hip venues like Void or Cavo Paradiso. Just follow the music. Dress code ranges from smart casual to elegant and chic. A nice smile, a good tan and a stylish kaftan will usually get you in.

Shopping is big. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel sit cheek by jowl with made-in-Greece souvenir shops. Stroll the narrow and picturesque streets to discover hidden gems: Jardin (in a converted mansion) for iconic Greek brands, Liontis for classic leather sandals in every imaginable color, Dio Horia Gallery — three floors of art and a rooftop bar. Everyone shops at Luisa at Nammos; you’ll walk out wearing what you buy. Most shops stay open late.

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For dinner (typically starting after 8 p.m.) consider family-run Kiki’s Tavern on Agios Sostis Beach, M-eating for a wide variety of fresh-caught seafood, and Kastro’s (in colorful Little Venice) overlooking the sea and the island’s iconic windmills.

During the day enjoy the calm, relaxing vibe: clear-as-glass water; long, golden beaches (more than two dozen); toes-in-the sand tavernas; and water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, windsurfing and diving to underwater caves.

Often called the Ibiza of Greece, Mykonos boasts a vibrant LGBTQIA+ scene. Katarina’s and Babylon are chic and trendy bar choices, as are JackieO’ and Super Paradise Beach Club.

For cruise ship passengers, Mykonos Town (1.5 miles from the dock at New Port) is easily accessible via sea bus or water taxi, and most cruise lines offer free shuttles.