Europe > Greece > Mykonos (JMK)
The Car or no Car advice for Mykonos can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Mykonos ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Mykonos ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Mykonos?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.Unlike quieter islands, Mykonos has strong infrastructure but also heavy seasonal pressure, which makes the car question more situational than on many other islands.
🚶 Mykonos without a car
You can manage without a car in Mykonos, especially if your plans are focused and well-located.
Works best if you:
-
Stay in Mykonos Town or close to it
-
Use frequent buses to major beaches (Paradise, Paraga, Psarou, Ornos)
-
Rely on walking, short taxi rides, or water taxis
-
Plan nights out close to where you’re staying
Why it works:
-
The bus network is frequent in summer
-
Distances are short
-
Many visitors never leave the main beach–town circuit
Caveats:
-
Buses get very crowded in peak season
-
Taxis are limited and expensive at night
-
Late-night transport can be frustrating
👉 If your trip revolves around beaches, clubs, and Mykonos Town, no car is viable.
🚗 When renting a car makes sense
A car becomes appealing once you want independence from crowds and schedules.
Good reasons to rent a car in Mykonos:
-
Visiting quieter or less-served beaches
-
Exploring inland areas and viewpoints
-
Avoiding peak-hour bus congestion
-
Managing early mornings or late nights without waiting
But be aware:
-
Roads are narrow and busy
-
Parking near beaches and town can be difficult
-
Driving after dark during peak season can be stressful
👉 A car offers freedom, but not always ease.
Conclusion – should you rent a car in Mykonos?
You don’t need to rent a car in Mykonos if you’re staying centrally, using buses, and focusing on the island’s social scene. Public transport and walking cover most popular routes.
However, renting a car in Mykonos can be worthwhile if you want flexibility, quieter beaches, or control over late-night and early-morning travel. For many visitors, the best approach is selective: no car at first, then a short hire if needed.

