One of Greece's most famous islands, Mykonos, was surprisingly named “Europe's worst coastal town” in a recent survey.
Despite its reputation as an attractive holiday destination with great beaches and picturesque streets, Mykonos Town was ranked bottom in Which? Travel's list, which rates seaside towns across the continent.
The study took into account a range of factors including value for money, beach quality and overall visitor experience.
Mykonos received high marks for its visual appeal, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and beautiful marina, but fell short in several other areas, resulting in a disappointing ranking.
Mykonos has long been a popular destination for A-list celebrities, with stars such as Beyonce, Kim Kardashian and George Clooney frequently spotted enjoying the luxuries of the island.
Celebrities including Nicole Scherzinger and Lottie Tomlinson continued to visit the island this summer, but the surge in celebrity visits did little to hide the town's shortcomings that the study uncovered.
One of the main criticisms in Which?'s research is the exorbitant cost of accommodation in Mykonos Town – the island is notoriously expensive, with the average hotel price coming in at nearly £200 per night.
This has raised concerns among travellers about whether Mykonos still offers good value for money, with research suggesting tourists should “avoid it” when planning their next European summer holiday.
Adding to the town's low ranking is the controversy surrounding some local businesses, such as the infamous DK Oyster Bar, which is known for overcharging tourists, with some visitors reporting being shocked at the amount of money they pay for basic food and drink.
In one widely publicised incident, a couple claimed they were charged 800 euros (£710) for just two drinks, four crab legs and a salad – a charge denied by the bar owner, but which only reinforced the impression that Mykonos Town is too expensive.
Besides costs, the study also cited congestion as a problem, especially during peak summer periods.
The island's popularity has led to an influx of tourists that has put a strain on local infrastructure, long wait times at restaurants and crowded beaches, marring the overall experience for many visitors and contributing to the town's low score in the survey.
But despite these challenges, Mykonos remains a top destination for those seeking a vibrant party atmosphere and luxurious surroundings.
While the island is known for its vibrant nightlife and has a number of beach clubs and bars that attract a global crowd, Mykonos also has quieter spots, with secluded beaches and cultural attractions offering a more relaxed experience.
