The Windmills of Kato Mili
Mykonos, Greece · Landmark
About The Windmills of Kato Mili
The Windmills of Kato Mili are an iconic row of historic 16th-century thatched windmills overlooking the Aegean Sea and the town of Chora. Built primarily by the Venetians to mill wheat and barley, these striking whitewashed structures have become the quintessential symbol of Mykonos. Today, they stand as a proud reminder of the island's agricultural heritage and provide one of the most famous scenic viewpoints in Greece.
Don't miss
- Admire the distinctive whitewashed circular walls topped with traditional conical thatched roofs.
- Soak in breathtaking sunset vistas stretching across the Aegean Sea toward Delos.
- Take in the picturesque panoramic views looking over the colorful waterfront of Little Venice.
- Stroll along the breezy coastal bluff linking the windmills directly to the charming alleys of Chora.
Plan your visit
Visit in the late afternoon just before sunset for magnificent golden-hour light, or come early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Visiting the windmills is completely free of charge and requires no advance booking.
The windmills sit on the southwestern edge of Mykonos Town (Chora) and are an easy five-minute walk from the town center or Fabrika bus station.
Tips for visiting
- Hold onto your hats and lightweight accessories, as the hillside is famously exposed to strong Aegean winds.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip because the ground around the windmills is dusty, rocky, and uneven.
- Head down to nearby Little Venice right after sunset to grab a seaside cocktail while the lights come on.
- Arrive just after sunrise if you want uninterrupted photo opportunities without tour groups.
- Take care around the edges of the bluff overlooking the sea, especially when it is very windy.
The Windmills of Kato Mili FAQ
Can you go inside the windmills?
The Kato Mili windmills are typically closed to the interior and can only be admired from the outside. If you are interested in seeing the inner mechanics, head up to Boni's Windmill overlooking the town, which houses a small agricultural museum.
Are the windmills illuminated at night?
Yes, the windmills are softly illuminated after dark, making them a dramatic sight against the night sky. Many visitors enjoy admiring their glowing silhouettes from waterfront bars in Little Venice.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The area immediately around the windmills consists of unpaved dirt and loose gravel, which can make navigation difficult for wheelchairs and strollers. However, you can still view them clearly from the adjacent paved road.
How many windmills are there at Kato Mili?
There are currently seven preserved windmills standing in the primary Kato Mili row overlooking the harbor. Historically, dozens of mills dotted this windy ridge to harness the Aegean breezes for the island's grain trade.
More things to do in Mykonos
Little Venice Neighborhood
Stroll past colorful 18th-century sea captains' houses built right on the water's edge, perfect for sunset drinks.
Day Trip to Delos Island Activity
Take a short boat ride to explore the legendary archaeological sanctuary, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Matoyianni Street Shopping
Wander through this lively labyrinth of designer boutiques, jewelry stores, and bougainvillea-framed cafes.
Church of Panagia Paraportiani Landmark
Admire this striking whitewashed Byzantine complex composed of five distinct chapels fused together over centuries.
Armenistis Lighthouse Landmark
Visit this historic 1891 lighthouse perched high on the northwestern coast for breathtaking panoramic sea vistas.
Platis Gialos Beach Nature
Relax on golden sands with calm waters, seaside tavernas, and convenient water taxi access to other south coast beaches.
Cavo Paradiso Nightlife
Dance under the stars on a dramatic cliffside overlooking Paradise Beach with sets from world-renowned international DJs.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: dimitrisvetsikas1969, msjime on Pixabay.