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High cliffs above the sea with bushes. Typical large rock with a hole in the sea and next to a small boat.

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Small bay for boats with small buildings. Above is a white church and in the background the sea.

The island with heavenly beaches

High cliffs above the sea with bushes. Typical large rock with a hole in the sea and next to a small boat.

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This Might Be the Most Photogenic Island in Greece — With a Moon-like Landscape, Gorgeous Sea Caves, and Some of the Bluest Water You've Ever Seen

Here’s your ultimate guide to Milos, the low-key Cycladic island that became an Instagram sensation.

milos tourism office

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do.

  • Best Shopping

Best Restaurants

Best time to visit, how to get there, areas to visit, how to get around.

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With its winning trifecta of sandy beaches, boutique hotels, and unpretentious tavernas, the Greek island of Milos seduces couples, water lovers, and gastronomes alike. There's no denying the Cycladic isle, where the famed Venus de Milo marble statue was unearthed by a farmer in 1820, is breathlessly romantic. Otherworldly landscapes sculpted by wind and sea shot to fame via Instagram in recent years, transforming the once low-profile island into a sought-after hot spot. 

Rich in minerals and precious metals, Milos has been mined since the Neolithic era, starting with obsidian. Its volcanic origins explain the kaleidoscope of colors gracing the rugged cliffs and coastlines. But tourism wasn’t taken seriously here until recently. Today, Milos features prominently among Travel + Leisure ’s World’s Best Award-winning destinations . Travelers are drawn to natural phenomena like the bone-white cliffs of former pirate lair Kleftiko and Sikia sea cave with azure waters ideal for snorkeling. Top of the list for travelers are two beaches: Papafragas and the lunar-like Sarakiniko. And let’s not forget the traditional technicolor boathouses.

"Milos offers the cultural connection many of today’s travelers are seeking," Mina Agnos , a T+L A-List advisor and founder of Travelive , said. It's ideal for those looking for a “laid-back vacation focused on culture, beaches, food, yachting, and relaxation,” she added. Foodie experiences, island tours, and boat charters are especially popular, but with limited hotel inventory, early booking is key, notes Agnos.

Here’s how to plan the perfect island escape to Milos, Greece.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

  • Explore the moonscape-like beach of Sarakiniko. The bravest dive into a cobalt Aegean below.
  • Stroll around the small fishing village of Klima, where traditional boathouses come in all shades of the rainbow.
  • Take a boat tour of Kleftiko and Sykia sea cave, best seen from a private yacht charter.
  • Catch the sunset from a church courtyard in the island capital of Plaka.
  • Chow down on delicious, farm-to-table food at O! Hamos!, Milos’ best-loved taverna.

Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa

Honeymooners flock to Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa , set on manicured grounds on the island’s northeastern tip. According to Agnos, “the little oasis” is a consistent winner with clients — not only for its personalized attention, but also for its waterfront location in Pollonia and romantic design, which includes four-poster brass beds.

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel

A family-owned property with warm service, Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel is a firm favorite among travelers. “It really conveys the feeling of the island and makes people feel like they’re being welcomed into somebody’s home,” said Agnos. Plus, its elevated location lends an air of seclusion and delivers panoramic views of Pollonia. 

Domes White Coast Milos

Situated on the northern coast, Domes White Coast Milos is “a little more remote,” but worth the extra effort to reach for the high-end service, according to Agnos. A member of upscale Greek hotel brand Domes Resorts, the adults-only property has 30 white suites with uninterrupted sea views, and Sarakiniko is just a seven-minute drive away. 

Courtesy of Skinopi Lodge

Skinopi Lodge

With seven, secluded, stone-built villas perched on a scrubby hillside above the island’s deep natural harbor, this sublime retreat was fashioned for the wild at heart. Surrounded by olive trees, thyme, and lavender, Skinopi Lodge offers a contemporary take on traditional syrmata. Even better, a private swimming spot lies just few steps away. 

White Pebble Suites 

A dream come true for its three Greek-Australian female founders, White Pebble Suites throws a curveball at classic Cycladic architecture. Sinuous lines flow between the 12 cream-hued suites of this design-savvy couple favorite in Pollonia. Earthy textiles, polished cement, and wicker accents make for a soothing blend.  

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Visit an otherworldly beach.

Formed from volcanic pumice sculpted by the wind and sea, Sarakiniko’s lunar-like appearance, contrasting with cobalt waters, is surreal. Only the strongest swimmers should consider cliff diving into the sea, which can become rough when northerlies blow through. Kids can explore old mining caves and marvel at a shipwreck washed ashore. 

See unique boathouses. 

Check out Milos’ traditional boathouses, known as syrmata, where fishermen would store their wooden boats for the winter. Painted in vivid red, blue, green, or yellow shades, many have been converted into ultra-minimalist holiday dwellings. The fishing village of Klima is well-known for its syrmata, but minuscule Firopotamos is equally appealing.  

Explore by boat. 

“Milos is a great place to charter a sailboat, yacht, or RIB [rigid inflatable boat] because there are so many places only accessible by sea,” said Agnos. Your trusty captain will transport you to the towering limestone cliffs of Kleftiko — once a pirate hideout — Sikia sea cave, or off-radar Polyegos isle to swim in ultramarine waters. 

Go on an off-road excursion. 

Milos’ western flank is so untamed that it’s off-limits to rental cars. Instead, take an off-road guided tour . Highlights include a visit to an inactive volcano, bird-watching at the Achivadolimni wetlands, and a hike through an abandoned manganese mine. End your day with a refreshing dip at a remote beach. 

Uncover geological wonders.

You don’t have to be a science expert to enjoy a tour unearthing Milos’ geological wonders, according to Agnos. You’ll visit the Milos Mining Museum , salt pans, and a sunken crater, among other highlights. Perhaps the most evocative sight is the abandoned sulphur mines, replete with rusted-out wagons and ghostly buildings.

Best Shopping 

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Pore over a fascinating array of sand exhibits and pick up memorabilia made with sand, wood, and glass from Milos Sand Gallery. At Totem, freshen up your wardrobe with a breezy cotton dress or colorful sun hat. Meanwhile, Pliatsiko’s one-of-a-kind items such as cross-stitch embroidered earrings and macramé necklaces are hard to resist.

Fashion boutique Vanilla carries resort wear by Greek designers, including bold print dresses and flowing caftans. Foodies should make room in their suitcase for delectable local goodies like sundried tomato paste, available at Ark of Tastes. Tip: Don’t leave without sampling the watermelon pie. 

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This wildly popular taverna, which sources raw ingredients from the family farm and local producers, doesn't accept bookings, but it’s worth waiting in line. Choose standout dishes from a whimsical handwritten menu, including slow-cooked wild goat with lemon, mustard, and marjoram and braised chickpeas with curry, cumin, and red peppers. 

Situated in the traditional village of Trypiti, Barriello has cemented its reputation as Milos’ most innovative dining venue. Chef-owner Takis Loukakis sources ingredients from his organic farm, serving dishes such as lamb picanha with black garlic, eggplant, and miso as well as vegan fare like king oyster mushroom carpaccio.

A spectacular setting for lunch or a sunset dinner, Klima’s sole restaurant is known for serving some of the best seafood on the island. Kritharoto (orzo) with shrimp and lobster spaghetti are among the highlights at Astakas, but if it’s grilled fish you’re after, take your pick from the day’s catch.

Situated on the water in the fishing settlement of Mandrakia, old-school taverna Medusa is a choice lunch and sunset dinner spot, so it’s always busy. Watch fishermen untangle nets and potter about their wooden caiques as you dine. Don’t miss the grilled eel with fava, fried calamari, and pitarakia (a local cheese pie).

Alevromilos

Chef Vassilis Papikinos showcases Milos’ wealth of produce through Cycladic cuisine that marries comfort and creativity. At his restaurant Alevromilos in Parasporos, he also blends in Italian influences, crafting dishes like skordolazana (handmade tagliatelle with a garlic sauce). For dessert, fresh local figs are served with xynomizithra cheese and honey.

Gatsi/Getty Images

Agnos suggests visiting Milos between mid-May and early October. “Seasonality is less of a factor than it used to be,” she said. “More clients are traveling in the shoulder season.” July and August are peak tourist months, so expect the island to be bustling with fellow visitors and cruise passengers. Summer is also the hottest time of year, though cooling northerly winds can take the edge off. While the Aegean waters are still rather cool for swimming in May, you may well have beaches almost completely to yourself. June is one of the best months to visit, with long, languid days and comfortable temperatures. Meanwhile, September is proving increasingly attractive for many travelers, followed by October, when the island winds down and prepares to close shop for the season. 

The quickest way to reach Milos is by plane. Flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to Milos operate daily and take about 45 minutes. Alternatively, take the ferry from Piraeus. A fast catamaran takes around three hours and 25 minutes to reach the island. Milos also features on cruise line itineraries, including those of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , Ponant , SeaDream Yacht Club , and Celestyal Cruises .

Aleh Varanishcha/Getty Images

Head up to Milos’ hilltop capital Plaka, where the maze-like alleyways and whitewashed homes are characteristically Cycladic. The ideal time to visit is just before sunset, which is best viewed from the courtyard of Panagia Korfiatissa church. Arrive early to nab a good spot. Agnos suggests “visiting the town’s little shops, jewelry boutiques, and galleries.” 

Spend a day roaming around Pollonia village. Take shade beneath tamarisk trees on the sandy beach and watch fishing caiques rhythmically bob on the water. Pay a visit to the Kostantakis Winery and sample cave-aged wines. When dinnertime rolls around, take your pick from the plentiful dining options lining the town jetty.

Jump in your rental and take the ferry from Pollonia to neighboring Kimolos island. Make your way to the Goupa-Kara settlement and walk among picture-perfect boathouses. Cool off in the cyan waters of Prassa Beach, then head up to the main town of Horio to stroll along cobblestoned paths, pausing for meze at a taverna. 

Rental Car: Book a rental car well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during peak season. “I recommend a car rental on Milos. For people comfortable with driving, it’s the best way to get around. Otherwise, have a driver on call,” said Agnos. Tip: Stick to paved and gravel roads, which can be narrow, and rely more on road signs than Google Maps.  

Taxi: Silver taxis are available at the airport and there is a cab rank near the port in Adamas. They may cost more if booked via a hotel. Prices vary, ranging from around 15 euros from Adamas to Plaka and about 30 euros from the airport to Pollonia. 

Bus: Milos has a small yet relatively comfortable bus fleet . Routes connect the airport with Adamas. From Adamas, you can reach Pollonia, Plaka, Sarakiniko, and Papafragas, among other destinations. Tickets cost two euros.

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Your guide to the Island of Milos. For unforgettable vacations

Milos island is "the island of colors", we will guide you to the island of milos. the most western island of the cyclades, greece., a vacation you will not forget..

Milos, one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades and of the whole Mediterranean Sea. It is an island for nature lovers and for those who love quietness, simplicity but at the same time comfort. Thanks to its volcanic origin, it has over 70 beaches of different nature and colors, waters of unique beauty and triumphal dawns and sunsets.

Milos is the most Western island of the Cyclades, not far from other known islands like Santorini and Sifnos. It is part of an archipelago, which includes the islands of Kimolos, Antimilos, Poliegos and the small islands of Glaronissia, and Akradies. Exploring the archipelago is a colored dream to discover, renting one of the many boats doing this service.

Milos has a millennial history , a residential population of about 6.000 people, and its territory allows you to vary your holiday, from choosing your peaceful beach, your trekking path, a typical restaurant, a museum and the site where the Venus of Milos was discovered. One typical characteristic is the exploitation of the various minerals. Mines are still present and represent by themselves an occasion to visit them All at hand and with a soft rhythm.

Milos, how to reach and move around

We will tell you how to reach the Island of Milos by daily flights or ferries . During the summer there are daily flights from Athens and ferries leaving from Piraeus and reaching Milos with fast ships.

Milostravel will guide and help finding your best accommodation and rental . Hotels and rented rooms are scattered throughout the villages and coasts. Even thought the lodging offer has increased in the last years it is advisable to reserve your accommodation well in advance. In respect to other islands Milos is still authentic place and it is crowded, so to say, only in July and August.

Milos has an important network of paved roads, bus lines and sufficient rentals. This means that is a pleasure to move around in dry air and explore the island by open car or motocycles. Bus lines cover the main tourist villages and beaches.

Our guide contains information on how to go through the hundreds of opportunities to an interesting vacation : beaches, museums, trekking, events and of course what and where to eat .

Milos will surely steal your heart , it guarantees a restful and attractive vacation under sunny, fresh and dry days, and deep-blue starred skies.

This website wants to anticipate your dream .

PTM Tours

Milos 101: The Beginner’s Guide to the Greek Island of Milos

Greece , Greek Islands , Travel Guides

Oct 4, 2017

comment 80 Comments

By Ryan Gargiulo

Introduction to Milos

Milos is a volcanic island in the southwest of the Cyclades which is most famous for the Venus de Milo (statue of Aprhodite which now resides in the Louvre) among other things.

But, let’s face it. History is history, right?

What’s far more intriguing to me is the fact that the Greek island of Milos is home to more than 72 different beaches.

That’s right seventy-two  different beaches.

I could go on for days about how much I love this island but before I begin to tell you everything you need to know about the island of Milos, I’m going to be straight up with you and let you know that Milos is hands down my favorite Greek island.

From stunning sunsets, to beautiful beaches awash in the colors of the Mediterranean Sea and white-washed Cycladic villages, Milos truly has it all.

It’s the 5th largest island in the Cyclades archipelago, located west of Santorini, between Heraklion, Crete and the Greek mainland.

Some 5,000 people call the island home, making their living through fishing, farming, agriculture, mining and tourism.

Just four hours by ferry from Athens, Milos is an unspoiled volcanic island which is still lesser known to many tourists when compared to islands such as Santorini , Kimolos , Mykonos and Rhodes .

If beaches are what you’re in search of — get ready to be absolutely blown away. 

The north and south shore are the most popular, while the beaches located on the east and west coasts are well off the beaten path and will be sure to be a highlight for those of you who consider yourselves to be adventurous travelers.

Seven towns make-up the island of Milos: Adamas, Plaka, and Pollonia are the larger towns, with Plaka having some of the best sunset in Milos.

Tip:   Utopia Cafe  is the best place to catch the sunset in Plaka — be sure to arrive early to get a seat.

The other four towns of Klima, Mandrakia, Fourkovouni and Fyropotamos are really more like small fishing villages, but well worth a visit.

Before You Go: Travel Insurance

When planning a trip to Greece and the Greek Islands your first priority should be to make sure you make a small investment towards your health and well being by considering an  affordable travel insurance policy  for your trip.

Not only will this budget friendly travel insurance policy cover you if your bags are lost/stolen and if your flight is delayed/cancelled, but you’ll also be covered for all medical and injury related issues as well. 

Let’s face it. No parents, family or friends want to have to cover the cost of you getting medevaced home from Greece.

Unfortunate things do happen.

Especially when you least expect it.

Do yourself a favor and consider purchasing travel insurance coverage for your trip so you can rest assured that you’ll be taken care of in the event of a serious emergency in Greece. 

P.S. You won’t believe how reasonably priced this travel insurance is.

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How to Get to Milos

You have two options when traveling to Milos — Take the ferry or fly. 

If you’re comfortable with taking the ferry you can go ahead and purchase your tickets ahead of time using the ferry booking below.

There is a high-speed catamaran which takes about four hours from Piraeus to Milos.

It’s important to note that timetables for the ferries change frequently so be sure to contact a Greek tourist office or book your tickets online to assure you have the most up to date times.

Check Ferry Schedules & Prices:

One of the better greek ferry booking systems is powered by a company called  Ferries in Greece , a major greek ferry booking hub that helps more than 35,000 passengers get to and from the Greek isles each year.

  • Ferry tickets sell out so don’t be surprised to find out your ferry is sold out if you leave it to the last minute.
  • Athens’ Port of Piraeus is hectic and very spread out. Be sure to figure out which part of the port that your ferry is leaving from prior to taking a taxi to the port.
  • For reliable taxis with reputable drivers, download and install the app called TaxiBeat on your phone. It’s the best way to get around Athens.

My recommendation is to always begin by  researching flights using Skyscanner  before looking into taking a ferry to the Greek Islands.

The flight from Athens to Milos is up and down, and takes approximately 45 minutes.

If you’re pressed for time, flying can be a great way to optimize time spent exploring.

The island’s airport is located about 4 km (2.5 mi) from the port town of Adamas.

Depending on the airline, time of the year and the latest promotions, flights from Athens to the islands can be found for as low as €45 round-trip.

While flying tends to be the more expensive option to get from mainland Greece to the islands, there are definitely deals to be found.

Tip: Begin your flight search by using the Skyscanner engine embedded below.

milos tourism office

Where to Stay in Milos

In Milos it’s easy to find the perfect place to lay your head each night.

Plus, you can save up to $44 off your first Airbnb stay using the following link: Airbnb Promo.

Everything from airbnb apartments to traditional rooms in small, family run hotels are available in the main port city of Adamas.

Milos Airbnb Apartment Rentals

Villa Tasoula

Villa Tasoula – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

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Summer House – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

Traditional Antigoni

Traditional Antigoni – 1 Bed / 1.5 Bath

Honeymoon Klima

Honeymoon Klima – 2 Bed / 1.5 Bath

Milos Dream House

Milos Dream House – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

Blue Mare

Blue Mare – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

Skinopi Fisherman

Skinopi Fisherman’s House – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

Skinopi Fisherman's Dream

Skinopi Fisherman’s Dream – 1 Bed / 1 Bath

Hotels in milos.

  • Giannis Apartments Hotel ( Hotels Combined / Booking.com )
  • Lagada Beach Hotel ( Hotels Combined / Booking.com )
  • Santa Maria Village ( Hotels Combined / Booking.com )

Greek Island of Milos

Things to Do in Milos

Visit the beaches.

Now, if you know anything about me you would know that I’m all about the beaches on the Greek islands.

If there’s one thing I can assure you it’s that a trip to Milos will leave you with a sore neck.

Why? Because it’s almost as if you can’t go a few miles without spotting one beautiful beach after the next.

Here are my personal recommendations when it comes to beaches in Milos:

  • Sarakiniko (Favorite!)

Sarakiniko beach is the most photographed landscape in the Aegean Sea. This isn’t your typical beach back at home. Sarakiniko is made up of bright white volcanic rock that takes its form from being cut, and carved by the wind and the waves of the sea. There are many caves that line the edge of the sea and there is even a small natural bridge that can be crossed.

If you’re an adrenaline seeker, there are many cliff jumping opportunities here! As usual, make sure you swim out to the spot first to find out what the depth is before jumping!

Milos is like no other destination that I’ve ever visited when it comes to the diversity of the beaches on offer.

From golden sand beaches to pebble beaches, cliffside beaches and a beach that looks like you’ve landed on the moon, Milos truly has it all.

Adventure Activities

For those seeking more action adventure activities Milos does not disappoint.

Sea-kayaking, scuba diving, windsurfing, hiking and even mountain bike riding are all offered on the island.

Don’t miss: 23 Amazing Things to Do in Milos .

Oneiro Boat Tour:

Exploring Milos by sea is highly recommended and a day voyage on the “Oneiro” is an absolute must.

Once onboard this roomy Beneteau 400 you can swim in clear blue waters, explore sea caves and enjoy a guided tour by Oneiro’s experienced captain.

This tour is rated #1 on TripAdvisor and for good reason.

For me, personally, the Oneiro boat tour was one of the highlights of my trip to Milos.

Oneiro offers full day boat excursions that take you along the southern coast of Milos from Paliochori Beach to Kleftiko Beach, the most southwestern tip of the island.

The total cost per person for this tour is approximately €75 and the price includes three meals (light breakfast, full lunch and dinner) snacks and drinks.

It’s a full day so be ready to be up early and back before sunset.

The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours but it flies by as you’re constantly in and out of the water exploring different parts of the island.

In all honesty, our tour with Oneiro was one of the most professionally run tours I’ve ever been on.

The sheer value of this tour is absolutely out of this world.

It could easily be priced at €100 and it would still be worth every penny.

More info : You can book your tour with Oneiro by heading down to the Adamas marina in the evening and finding their boat.

All of the boat tour companies setup their info kiosks around sunset and Oneiro is usually one of the first boats from the left if you’re standing facing the line of boats in the marina.

Price: €75/per person

Day Trip to Santorini

While I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Santorini, it is possible do a day trip from Milos — although not recommended.

That being said, it can be done if you only have very limited time on Milos and want to squeeze in a quick trip to Santorini.

The ferry from Milos to Santorini takes anywhere from 2 hours to 6 hours depending on the type of ferry you choose.

If you only have time for a day trip to Milos, be sure to take the high speed ferry so you can spend more time exploring the island than getting there.

Recommended Read: A Beginner’s Guide to Santorini, Greece

Exploring Milos, Greece

Getting Around Milos

So you made it to Milos, now you need to get around the island.

There are a number of car and motorbike rental agencies and given that Milos is a rather large island renting a 4-wheeler or car is recommended.

Public Transport:

Milos also offer local public transportation, with a bus system that goes to all seven towns and a number of the beaches.

The bus terminal is located in the main square in the port of Adamas in front of the Portiani Hotel.

This is where you’ll also find the boat excursion dock.

Additionally, taxis are also readily available.

Best Time to Visit Milos

I would say now is a good time to visit Milos.

But, in all seriousness, Milos is blessed with a Mediterranean climate which mainly consists of mild temperatures, calm seas, and warm water.

In the winter months you can expect to find some rainy, cool days and in the summer it’s warm and dry.

July and August tend to be a favorite time of the year for lovers of all ages to visit, so make sure to book your accommodations, car rentals, and ferry or airplane tickets in advance.

If you’d rather experience Milos when it’s less busy, you should know that the island has far fewer visitors from April to June and September into early October.

The months of April and May are when the island is at its most beautiful thanks to the winter rains which have turned every green and brought into bloom beautiful wildflower.

In July, the island organizes a festival with various cultural events, including music and delicious local fare, like watermelon pies, cream cheese pies and bonbons with white pumpkin.

Though not as famous as some of her sister Greek islands, Milos should not be overlooked.

The island’s clear blue and green waters, beaches of incomparable beauty, and stunning coastline, some say the most interesting in the world, give Milos a personality all her own.

As Milos remains still somewhat untouched by chain hotels and pre-packaged tourism, you can truly discover Milos as the island has been for thousands of years.

It is place full of wonder and surprise perfect for families, couples as well as solo travelers.

Picture yourself on the lunar landscape in Sarakiniko, or the picturesque fishing village of Klima.

How about a soak in the thermal springs to rejuvenate your body and soul?

If you are looking for a lesser known Greek island with unmatched beauty Milos is the place for you.

Interested in visiting the Greek islands? If so, be sure to check out my full collection of Greek Island Travel Guides .

🔎 Did you find this travel guide useful? If so, please comment below and be sure to share it with your family and friends.

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milos tourism office

80 thoughts on “Milos 101: The Beginner’s Guide to the Greek Island of Milos”

Great, that island is looking so awesome and have so many good things to enjoy. Best palce to enjoy natural things and stunning photos you shared.

Hi Ryan, I miss your videos on youtube. I love your blog as I wish I could travel the world too. I live in kansas City, I’m from Mexico and my family lives in Playa del Carmen. Thanks to your vids I was able to enjoy Playa even more when I visit my family. Hope you’re doing great!!!!!!!

Thanks for reaching out! Haha! Yeah, it’s been a while since I uploaded a video. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the videos. For more about Playa you should check out my friend Seth over at EverythingPlayadelCarmen.com.

Great… Looks incredible… Loved your pics…

I have always been thinking to visit Milos but I was lacking with appropriate information. Like Where? What? How? and all, but after seeing your post feels like I have my personal guide. Pretty good place to travel with family and kids. Thank you so much for helping me out Ryan. Definitely am gonna travel within few days. Keep up the work.

Thanks Jennifer! Best of luck on your trip.

Am travelling to Milos by ferry mid August and staying at the Beach Suites Syrma is it possible to taxi to our destination from the port and what would be an approx price guide. Ta. Gary – am also visiting as many islands as possible.

This is amazing. Everything i needed to plan my trip! Thank you so much for putting so much time and effort into this

Hey Allie — Glad to hear it! When are you heading to Milos?

Wow, thank you for the great tips, I now know which islands I’d like to do and feel much more confident booking our trip. Question for you? What is the language barrier like? Worried about transfers and uber do they speak English? ????????

No problem at all! ;-)

There are no language barriers on the islands as the locals fully rely on tourism. No worries, just about everyone speaks English. Also, Uber is not found on the islands but it is found in Athens. Most of the drivers in Athens should speak enough English. With Uber you enter your destination in the app and it’s pretty much automated from there so even if the driver didn’t speak much English, he/she still knows where you need to go.

Best of luck!

Hi! Can you share some insight about food/restaurants to try in Milos?

Yes. Don’t miss this place — http://www.ohamos-milos.gr/

Be sure to make reservations

I add to Milos for travel in my next vacation. I am a traveler and i especially looking for beach for travel. Because beach are full of treasure and its my hobby to hunting treasure with my metal detector.

Glad to hear it, Barbara! Thanks for the comment.

I planned Santorini for our honeymoon but unfortunately couldn’t go. Pictures are beautiful. I love to explore islands and kayak around. Milos sure will be my next destination and ferry ride to Santorini sounds perfect to me.

I’m so sorry to hear this, Mike. Hopefully you’ll get to experience it in the near future. You must combine a visit to both Santorini and Milos. It’s a must!

Hello! Thanks so much I’ve been tossing up between paros and milos! But I think your article won me over. When you say the flight from Athens is ‘up and down’ do you mean bumpy or short? Thanks!

Hi Brydie. Glad to hear that you’ve decided on Milos. When I said the flight was up and down, I meant that it was such a short flight that it felt like we took off and a landed just a few mins later. ;-) Enjoy yourself and safe travels!

I am from India. Planning for a trip to greece. I have santorini, mykonos and athens on the list. Seeing your blog, we want to include Milos as well. But just wanted to check if there are any chances of getting Indian food as my son is 3 years old and not sure what type of food options are available. And, how many days do you suggest for Milos? We want to choose between crete/rhodes and Milos. What’s your say? Please advise.

Hmm. I’m not so sure that I’ve seen any Indian food on Milos. I did enjoy a great Indian meal on the island of Rhodes a couple years ago. My best advice would be to google Indian restaurants in Milos to see what you can find.

If you’re wanting to explore the beaches, take the boat trip with Oneiro and enjoy the delicious food, I think that 2-3 days is perfect.

Thank you for writing such a lovely post. I’m travelling to greece on 3rd May for 14 Nights. I have plans to visit following places (Not in order. Plan is still in finalising phase):

Athens – 2 Nights Meteora – 1 Night Santorini – 3 Nights Mykonos – 2 Nights Zakynthos – 3 Nights and now after reading your post I added Milos – 3 Nights

Could you suggest where can I find beautiful picturesque white sand beach (not a pebble beach) anywhere in the above listed Islands? Also, we will hire a car, so, what places can we visit in Milos in 3 days?

Thanks in advance :)

Hi Niharika – Thanks for reaching out. I think your itinerary is spectacular and I’m jealous of it. ;-) Please add Milos to your list. You will not regret it. As a matter of fact, I expect that you’ll be back to tell me all about your trip. I hope you will!

Mykonos is supposed to have white sand beaches so that shouldn’t be an issue. Personally, one of my favorite beaches is this one in Milos: https://www.instagram.com/p/BWKvv6SF9LK/

You’ll be able to see all of Milos with a car without any issue at all. The must visit beaches are Firiplaka and Sarakiniko Beach which you can see here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BJfzSctg7Gu/

You’ll also want to visit Mandrakia for the photo opportunities: https://www.instagram.com/p/BVXPfHlFvTT/

Hello! I’m thinking to go to Milos in April 13th. Do you think it’s good time to enjoy some beach days or is it to cold? Rainy?

Yay! Just contacted Oneiro after reading your article. We’ll be visiting Milos and Sifnos in June.

Just a question, what are the restaurant prices like in Milos? I’ve tried looking for menus but can’t really find much to kind of figure out our food budget… Hopefully food will be a tiny bit more affordable than here in merry old London….

Also, can you suggest any ‘secret’ or less known amazing spots for a romantic picnic??

Thanks for the awesome blog!

Glad to hear it, Melanie! I’ll be in Milos in June as well. ;-)

Typical meals at Greek restaurants range between 6-10 euros/plate. Sometimes more depending on where you’re dining, obviously. In comparison to most parts of the world, it’s pretty affordable.

A romantic picnic would be great over near Mandrakia – https://www.instagram.com/p/BVXPfHlFvTT/

Awesome. Thanks for the suggestion! Happy travels!

I love Milos! Went there last summer for the first time and will go back this summer in July for 9 days. Will stay 3 nights in Pollonia and 6 nights in Adamas. Milos is what I always imagine when I was thinking about a Greek island, white villages, turquoise sea, not too big and too crowded and very relaxed atmosphere!

Excellent! You are going to have such a great time (yet again). Enjoy your trip and thanks for the comment.

A lot of unique tips and very well writing. Greek is one of the best tourist zones, and here has a lots amazing beautiful place. All the pictures and the information are very much helpful for all the travel lovers. Beginner gathers a lot of updates information and they can know how to enjoy a trip and makes it more exciting. I feel free to convince for traveling. keep inspiring us.

Hello. Milos looks beautiful! My husband and I are planning a trip to Greece for our 25th wedding anniversary. We are from Canada. We are planning on being there sept 24-oct 8/18. I was thinking to fly into Athens then immediately leave by high speed ferry to Fira or Oia Santorini for 4 nights then ferry to Chania Crete for 5 nights then ferry back to Athens for 4 nights. Every island is beautiful it’s getting difficult on which to select to visit. We are beach people for sure and want to see some history also. Are the above the best places to visit? Is the weather beach weather during our dates? We are trying to do Greece on a budget, thinking to uses Airbnb for where to stay. Any suggestions?

Congrats Dawn! Normally I recommend spending a couple days in Athens before heading to the islands but in this specific case I would recommend the reverse and that you spend the time in Athens at the end of your trip as you’ve seem to already have planned (for obvious weather related reasons). I think the itinerary sounds great. The only thing is that I’ve heard Crete in itself is it’s own trip/adventure. It’s a huge island that takes serious time to get around.

As far as beaches go I highly highly recommend you visit Milos. It’s an easy trip from Santorini and you could also throw in a visit to Folegandros as well which is said to also have incredible beaches. I have yet to get to Folegandros but it’s high on my list as I have many Greek friends that rave about it. It’s an island which is still very “under the radar” which is great.

As far as Airbnbs for Athens, I can recommend the airbnbs of my good friends (Thanos & Dimitris) here: https://airbnb.pvxt.net/c/301518/264339/4273?subId1=versa&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.airbnb.com%2Frooms%2F6241150 (small apt 1-4 guests) https://airbnb.pvxt.net/c/301518/264339/4273?subId1=versa&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.airbnb.com%2Frooms%2F12621601 (big apt up to 9 guests)

On Milos (if you get there) I recommend you stay at Galanis Rooms in Adamas — http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Galanis_Rooms.htm?a_aid=171530

Best of luck on your trip and please let me know if you have any further questions.

Hi Ryan, from what I see you may be on Milos right now! We are heading there next July….2019, from Canada, with our family of 5. Youngest 12. My plan was Crete, Santorini(limit the nights as it sounds rather pricey) , Milos and finishing in Athens. I’ve been worried about getting around Milos as we don’t want to rent a car….should we stay in Adamas and would we be able to get to some of the most beautiful sights? We plan 3 or 4 nights. Thanks so much,

Hi Diane — Yes, I’m currently in Milos as we speak. ;-) It’s as beautiful as it sounds!

Your itinerary sounds great. One thing you must know is that you will need a car to visit some of the best beaches/sights on Milos. Please do yourself a favor and get yourself an international license before arriving here as a new law was recently passed and they do not allow anyone without an international license to rent vehicles here anymore.

There is always the option to take a taxi to different spots on the island but the rates aren’t always reasonable and you won’t always be able to find a taxi to take you back to town after you finish your sightseeing. I always stay in Adamas (the main port town) out of preference. Plus, I find it to be very convenient whether you fly in (only 4km from the airport — 15 EUR Taxi) or if you take the ferry you’ll be dropped right in town.

I would say 3 nights is plenty in Milos. Best of luck on your trip!

Have a trip planned to Greece this summer. This article just makes me hat much more exited! Thank you for the great information.

This blog post has been super helpful in my planning for this summer! I am planning to stay in Milos for a total of six nights. Three nights in Adamas to explore the island, and then three nights secluded in Fourkovouni enjoying the water and beauty there.

I wanted to ask you about the three nights in Adamas. Will I be able to get around with an ATV? Basically wondering if the streets and island are easy to get around with an ATV or will I specifically need a car? and do you need an international license to rent an ATV?

Hi Taraneh. Thanks for the comment. I appreciate the feedback!

Congrats on your upcoming trip. I’m jealous that you’re heading back to one of my favorite islands. Also, I have never visited Fourkovouni so I’m hoping you can share your experience in a comment here to let us know how it goes.

As for your three nights in Adamas and renting an ATV — Yes, you should be perfectly fine. The only thing to note is that you must arrive prepared with an international drivers license. Last summer I was in Milos and they had a crackdown on rentals for both cars/atvs and now they require that you have an Int’l drivers license.

Best of luck and I hope to hear from you soon!

My husband and I are going to be visiting Milos for 4 days in June. As far as transportation what do you recommend? We do not drive stick shift so we need an automatic car, but I am having trouble finding cars that are not manual to rent on the island. It seems like you need a special license for the motorbikes also so I am worried about how we will get around. What do you recommend? Also, my husband would like to do a day trip to Mykonos from Milos, any pointers?

Thanks! Ashley

Hi Ryan, Thanks for your blog and pictures! They are so helpful. 2 guidebooks about Greece that I have don’t really cover Milos very well.

I’m planning a trip to the Cyclades this May and we have 5 days to spend on Milos and Santorini. Thoughts on how many days you would spend in each place, given this is our first time ever in the area?

This article is very very helpful for me, thank you so much for sharing it

Hi Ryan, wow i just bumped onto this blog and i love every idea. My friends and i are planning a trip to Greece around April/May, what is the weather like then?

After reading your recommendation on Milos, we are definitely adding it to the itinerary

Hi Clara. Glad to hear it! The weather will still be quite cool in April. Mid to late May would be best for a visit to Milos. You’ll not only have nicer weather but you’ll also avoid the summer crowds.

Hey Ryan! This has been a hugely helpful article with amazing photos. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us!!

My mom and I are planning an island hopping trip in the Cyclades late May. A couple questions about Milos if I may…

Is it realistic to make this a day trip from Santorini, or will you simply not have enough time to see the best of Milos (assuming we rent a car/ATV) What would be the ideal amount of time to get a good visit in — especially to the beaches?

Also, if we were to stay several nights, do you save any money renting a car/ATV for the day and retiring it in the evening, or is it cheaper to rent for the length of your stay and return before you leave?

Thanks so much!!

Ryan, any recommendations of where to stay in Santorini? We’re a family of 4. Our girls are 16 and 10. We’re looking in the $250/night range.

Hi Ryan, I just booked a hotel for this summer in Milos. I would like to rent an RTV, would you recommend renting it on line before getting on the island, or should I rent it there? Many thanks Mario

Hi Mario. Excellent! Glad to hear it. I assume you meant ATV? If so, you can either rent one ahead of time or rent one on arrival. I’ve rented from Nikos in Adamas. You can find them here: http://www.milosrentacar.gr/

Best of luck and enjoy Milos!

Hi Ryan this has some excellent info! We are looking to spend 3 days in Milos and wanted to focus in a little more on how easy it is to get around. Can you easily walk from Klima to Plaka for example? Is it easy to taxi (or Uber) or do you recommend renting an ATV? Thanks!

Hi Fraser. Thanks for the feedback.

I personally wouldn’t recommend walking from Klima to Plaka. That would be a 40 min walk in the heat. I suggest you rent a car/motorbike during your time in Milos. Unfortunately, Uber does not operate in the Greek islands. You could use taxis to get around but it’s more affordable to rent a vehicle/moto if you’re planning on exploring the island.

Best of luck and have a great trip!

My mom and I are planning an island hopping trip in the Cyclades late May 2020 and are seriously considering including Milos in our itinerary.

Is it realistic to make this a day trip from Santorini, or will you simply not have enough time to see the best of Milos (assuming we rent a car/AT V)? What would be the ideal amount of time to get a good visit in — especially to the beaches?

Hi Chloe! Thanks for the feedback. It’s always so nice to hear from my readers.

While I wouldn’t recommend doing a day trip from Santorini to Milos due to the fact that there’s a lot to see in Milos, it can certainly be done. You could potentially take the 8:30AM SeaJets Ferry from Santorini which will get you to Milos by 10:35AM. Upon arrival, you could rent a car/moto and head off to explore the island and be back to the Milos ferry terminal by 6:30PM for the 7PM SeaJets Ferry from Milos to Santorini. You can use the ferry booking widget in this post above to plan out your itinerary. The cost will be approximately 52.50 EUR/pp each way (105 EUR/pp in total for a round-trip journey).

If you want to get the most of Milos, I recommend spending at least a day or two if not three.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Best of luck and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

Thank you so much! I think we are more and more convinced one day in Milos won’t do. ;) I’ll let you know how it goes!

Yeah, Milos in a day would be quite hectic. Looking forward to hearing how it goes.

Hi Ryan, My name is Alane Truglia and I am visiting Greece for the first time with friends. We are torn about what islands to visit/skip? Our plan is 8-9 days, Milos, Naxos, Santorini and Mykonos. Which do you suggest and in what order? I think we will need to drop one, so confused.

In our 50’s, active and enjoy food & drink. THX!

Hi Alane. Thanks for stopping by. Sounds like an amazing trip! Nice itinerary as well. One thing I would like to ask is if you’re into the day party/nightlife scene at all? The reason I ask is because Mykonos is known for young, wealthier crowds and its party scene. Not to say that it’s not beautiful because it certainly is. If that’s not your scene, I would recommend doing Milos, Santorini and Naxos or Naxos, Santorini and Milos.

Best of luck on your trip. Let me know if you have any further questions.

Hello Ryan,

Thank you for your recommendations ! My sister and I are planning on visiting Milos and we’re interested in renting a car but we’re scared as it seems like a lot of the roads are pretty narrow, made out of gravel and where you have to drive along a lot of cliffs to get to the best beaches. Would you say the roads are safe from your experience ? thank you in advance !

Hi Sarah! Congrats on your upcoming trip to Milos. You’re going to have a great time. Honestly, there’s nothing wrong with the roads in Milos. I would suggest renting a car/ATV to explore. If you want to access some of the more remote beaches, I recommend renting an ATV. They are extremely easy to ride, they work great on gravel roads and you can park them just about anywhere. In my opinion, you will be perfectly fine driving in Milos. One thing you should know before you go is that you will need to have an International Drivers Permit in order to rent a vehicle in Milos. If you’re from the US, you can get one at your local AAA — AAA.com – International Drivers Permit

Hey thanks for the post! It really helped put my trip together.

How long ago did you do the onerio tour, I’ve sent a few emails spaced a week apart and no answer.

Glad to hear it! That’s very odd about Oneiro not responding to you. I know they’re still in operation. Do you have Whatsapp? If so, I would recommend sending a text to: +30 6974 930580

Thanks so much for putting this together. I’ve based my family’s upcoming trip in about three weeks on this. Two questions: 1) We’re planning on renting ATVs and were hoping to just do that when we got to town. Do you think we should instead book in advance? Again, trip’s in 3 weeks, so June 25 (And yes, we all have our IDPs thanks to your advice!) 2) Oneiro boat tour said they don’t have any availability for the days we will be there. Are there any other boat tour companies you would recommend?

Hi Nathalie! No problem at all. Glad to hear that you found this article helpful.

1. Yeah, you shouldn’t have too much of an issue booking on site. That said, it will be high season so you may want to reach out to a rental company and see what their opinion is.

2. That’s such a bummer that Oneiro’s boat tour has no availability for you. It appears he’s getting more and more popular each year. It’s tough because he’s only one guy and while he’s known to run two boats with a friend of his from time to time, it’s likely still not enough for the demand he has. I can’t personally recommend any other boat tours to you but I can tell you that there are plenty of other boat tours available down at the harbor. Your best bet is to take a stroll down to the port one evening, stop by Oneiro and talk to them. Maybe they’ll be able to figure something out for you. If not, wander around to some of the other companies and see what they have to offer.

Hi Ryan, Thanks for taking the time to answer everyone’s questions in so much detail. My wife and I are planning on taking a trip to Milos in September and we were wondering if we need to rent a big SUV with 4 wheel drive to be able to get around on the island. Or if a regular sized front wheel drive sedan would be ok.

What are your thoughts?

Hey Nat – A normal car would be fine although having the SUV would allow you to access some off road/dirt paths that will take you to lesser known beaches and other gems on the island.

Oh and a follow up question…. Someone on a forum said it was cheaper for them to rent a car on the mainland and bring it on the ferry to and from Milos, than it was to rent a car in Milos. We’re also planning on spending a few days on the mainland so I was wondering if it would make more sense to rent the same car on the mainland and just take it with us on the ferry to Milos.

Thanks for your time, Nat

I was in Mykonos last summer, we ran out of time and I was eager to meet Milos and Santorini, I see that I have missed a lot.

Well, I highly recommend you visit both islands next time around.

What a beautiful post!! Thanks for sharing such useful Information :)

You’re very welcome. Thanks for the feedback.

Hi Ryan Can you tell us how limited the ferry service is from Athens to Milos or from Milos to Santorini in late April, early May. I understand that it runs regularly in the summer but I can’t find any information on the time frame indicated above. We want to visit Milos for 2 or 3 days but we want to make sure that we can get to and from the island.

Hi Gerry. It appears there are 2 ferries per day running from Athens to Milos. You can check the schedules by entering your dates into the ferry search widget found here: https://www.pausethemoment.com/milos-travel-guide/#How-to-Get-to-Milos

Thanks and best of luck!

Greece is a wonderful country. I try to visit it every year and I’m never disappointed.

Great article about a place that I had never even thought about visiting. Interesting to hear about the situation there and amazing that you went the length to get the true story about what it’s like.

Thanks for wonderful informations. This is so helpful for first time visitor like me. Cheers!!!

No problem. Thanks for the comment.

I can not wait for travel to open up again. Greece is one place that is on top of my list and you have some awesome information here. Thank you and Milos looks like the perfect place. I am not a huge fan of off the beaten path places that don’t get slammed by the cruise ship tourists.

Hey Jared – Milos is definitely receiving more visitors than previous years but it’s still a gem in many peoples eyes. Obviously this year will be a tough one for the island.

Awesome article. I can not wait until travel opens up again. Milos is my next destination I want to go with my wife and you have some really good tips. Thank you

Ryan, loved your blog about Milos. My wife and I are hoping to move to a Greek island in 2022 or so. I’ll have just retired and am looking for an adventure. I don’t care at all about nightlife, and really just want to soak in the culture, eat a lot of great food, support the economy, and make friends. We hope to move to Greece for a complete year, and then move back home. Would you suggest Milos as a place that would meet our expectations? We love beaches, especially my wife. I have a friend who lives in Athens and he suggested Milos, Paros, and Naxos. Any help would be appreciated.

Realy great article ! Wow ! Thank you !

Thanks for your Milos tips – very helpful. My husband and I are planning to go to Milos in June. We don’t want to hire a car but want to explore the island a bit as well as stay by a beach. Is Polonia too inconvenient for using Public transport? We plan to stay 4 nights on Milos

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milos tourism office

Visiting Milos: Everything You Need to Know

posted by Nikos Tsakiris on June 15, 2023 // last updated on June 15, 2023

Nestled in the Cyclades island complex, Milos is a volcanic Greek island known for its stunning landscapes and beautiful coastline.

With over 70 pristine beaches and a population of only 5,000 permanent residents, Milos offers a magical and laid-back atmosphere for visitors seeking an authentic and unspoilt Grecian getaway.

One of the unique aspects of the island’s charm comes from its colourful volcanic origin, which has resulted in an incredible coastline boasting more than 40 exotic beaches.

The island’s crowning jewel, Sarakiniko Beach, is renowned for its mesmerising moonscape-like appearance. In addition to its natural beauty, Milos also offers an array of fresh seafood, quaint downtowns, and fantastic accommodation options to explore at affordable prices.

This Milos visitors guide will help travellers make the most of their trip to this Grecian paradise, providing essential information on when to visit, where to stay, and what to do.

Whether you’re an adventurous explorer or a beach lover seeking relaxation, Milos offers a dreamy escape for all types of travellers.

Getting to Milos

Milos has a small airport (MLO) that serves domestic flights to and from the island. The most common route to Milos via air is through flights from Athens International Airport (ATH). These flights are operated by Olympic Air, and the journey typically lasts around 45 minutes. Make sure to book your flights in advance, especially during the peak travel season of May through October.

Another popular way to get to Milos is by ferry. There are regular connections from the Greek mainland, particularly from the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio near Athens. The duration of a ferry trip can vary depending on the type of boat and the route, but generally takes between 3 and 7 hours. Some of the main ferry companies operating on this route are Aegean Speed Lines, SeaJets, and Zante Ferries.

Ferries also connect Milos with other popular Cyclades islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. This allows travellers to island-hop and explore multiple destinations when visiting Greece.

When planning your trip to Milos, keep the following information in mind:

  • Ferry schedules can change depending on the season and demand, so make sure to check for the latest updates before your trip.
  • It’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, particularly during the peak season, to secure a spot and avoid last-minute inconveniences.
  • Consider the type of ferry you choose, as faster boats often have higher ticket prices but shorter travel times.
  • During high season, ferries may be crowded, so be prepared for a busy trip.

Accommodation Options

Milos offers a range of hotels suitable for various budgets and preferences. Some top hotel options are located in Adamas, Pollonia, and Plaka. For example, Olea Bay Hotel in Adamas provides modern amenities and exceptional services, perfect for a relaxing stay. Visitors seeking a more traditional atmosphere can consider staying at Halara Studios in Plaka, which offers cosy, island-styled rooms with beautiful views.

For a luxurious and spacious stay, Milos has numerous villas available to rent, particularly around the island’s pristine beaches. These properties often feature private swimming pools, well-equipped kitchens, and stunning seaside views. Holidaymakers looking for a unique experience can opt for Milos Vaos Windmill , which combines historical charm with modern comforts.

Guest Houses

Visitors interested in affordable and comfortable accommodations can choose from a variety of guesthouses on the island. Many of these establishments are family-run, offering a friendly and personalised experience. Guesthouses are often found in charming villages such as Klima, Mandrakia, and Firopotamos. These locations provide guests with an opportunity to experience the local culture and explore the picturesque surroundings.

Top Attractions

Sarakiniko beach.

Sarakiniko Beach is a must-visit attraction on the island of Milos. Its unique landscape features white volcanic rock formations contrasting with the deep blue Aegean Sea. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the fascinating rock formations that have been eroded by wind and sea over time. This lunar-like landscape offers an unforgettable experience and serves as a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

Kleftiko, located on the southwestern corner of Milos, is a stunning natural wonder only accessible by water. Known for its white cliffs and outcrops, visitors can embark on a sailing trip from the port of Adamas to explore this remote area. Kleftiko once served as a hideout for pirates, and now it offers the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore caves, and take stunning photographs of its remarkable scenery.

Plaka Village

The charming village of Plaka serves as the island’s capital and offers a picturesque setting for visitors to explore. With narrow alleys, traditional whitewashed houses, and stone-paved streets, Plaka captures the essence of a quintessential Greek island village. Key attractions in Plaka include the ancient Castle of Milos, which offers panoramic views of the island, and the quaint fishing village of Klima with its colourful houses built right by the sea.

Activities and Tours

Milos offers a variety of boat tours for visitors to explore its stunning coastline and sea caves. One highly recommended option is the catamaran cruise with Odysseus A. Cruises. This well-organised tour is praised for its attentive crew and smooth experience. Other popular boat tours include trips to the nearby sea caves, which showcase the island’s unique geological features.

Hiking Trails

For those who prefer to explore on foot, Milos has numerous hiking trails that allow you to discover its diverse landscape. The volcanic island boasts an enchanting mixture of colourful scenery, and the trails often lead to secluded beaches or dramatic cliffside views. Guided hikes are available, or you can explore the trails independently, but always exercise caution and ensure you are prepared with sufficient water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in Milos provides a unique underwater experience, thanks to its remarkable geology and rich marine life. Various dive centres operate on the island, offering excursions suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Additionally, Milos has a range of dive sites to explore, including underwater caves, shipwrecks, and striking volcanic formations.

Local Cuisine

Traditional dishes.

Milos, being a Greek island, offers a variety of traditional dishes that both locals and visitors enjoy. Among these culinary delights, you’ll find:

  • Cheeses of Milos : Made with goat’s milk from the free range goats that roam all over the island, there are at least 10 different types of cheese produced on Milos.
  • Food cooked in volcanic sand : A unique experience only found in Milos, some dishes are cooked using the island’s volcanic sand, giving the food a distinct flavour.

Recommended Restaurants

When visiting Milos, make sure to try out these highly recommended restaurants:

  • O Hamos : This popular restaurant is located right on Papikinou beach, and is within easy walking distance from Adamas. The setting is unique, owing to the personalised touch of its decor. O Hamos serves delicious, authentic Greek cuisine and is a favourite among both locals and visitors.
  • Medusa : Another great choice for traditional Greek dishes, Medusa offers a relaxed atmosphere and excellent service, making it an ideal place to dine during your visit to Milos.

Safety and Travel Tips

Health services.

In Milos, travellers can find basic healthcare facilities, such as local medical clinics. In case of emergencies, the island has a hospital in the town of Plaka. However, for more advanced treatment or specialised care, it may be necessary to travel to the mainland or neighbouring larger islands. It is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and have travel insurance with medical coverage before visiting Milos.

Public Transportation

Milos offers a functional public transportation system, with buses connecting the island’s major towns and popular tourist destinations. The bus schedules can vary seasonally, so it’s essential to check the timetable in advance. Additionally, car and scooter rentals are available for travellers who prefer independent exploration. Remember to practice safe driving while using rented vehicles and adhere to local traffic regulations.

Currency and Tipping

The official currency in Milos, Greece, is the Euro (€). ATMs are available in the main towns, and most businesses accept credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small shops and local markets.

Tipping is customary in Greece, and visitors should follow the local etiquette. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is expected; whereas, for other services like taxis and hotels, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is appreciated.

Nikos Tsakiris

Hailing from the historic city of Thessaloniki, Nikos Tsakiris is a passionate explorer, seasoned writer, and co-founder of Greek Island, the definitive travel blog for the Greek Islands.

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TRENDING IN MILOS

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Hotels & Accommodations

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TRAVEL GUIDE TO MILOS

Milos is one of the volcanic Greek islands, sitting at the southernmost part of the Cyclades island complex. Thanks to its volcanic origin, Milos boasts a magnificent colorful landscape and a coastline that counts more than 40 exotic beaches.

Find out everything about your holidays in Milos in our travel guide! Discover the best things to do , exciting tours & activities , fantastic beaches, top hotels , and restaurants , as well as a wide selection of breathtaking photos !

The island can be reached by plane from Athens or ferry from by ferry from Piraeus and Lavrion ports in Athens and many other islands. Being relatively close to famous Cyclades islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, Paros and Naxos, Milos offers the perfect chance for island hopping!

How to travel there?

How to travel there?

Best Hotels (+40)

Best Hotels

What to do? (+25)

What to do?

Where to swim? (+20)

Where to swim?

Top tours & attractions (+15)

Top tours & attractions

Where to eat & drink? (+20)

Where to eat & drink?

OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN MILOS

Book your trip to Milos with Greeka, the Greek islands specialists! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and from car rentals to ferry tickets, we provide all the essential services to make your travel to Santorini the most epic and smooth one. Our travel services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

Ferry tickets

ABOUT MILOS GREECE

Milos is one of the most exotic and laid-back Greek islands! Sitting in the heart of the Aegean Sea, overlooking the rest of the Cyclades, Milos has enchanted many with its unpretentious charm! Standing out for its majestic ambiance, rich history, picturesque fishing villages, amazing food, and indigo bays, Milos Island is a timeless Cycladic gem that will steal your breath with its enchanting beauty. The variety of landscapes in Milos is unreal- you’ll see nothing twice, and there’s always something new to discover.

This enticing island is particularly famous due to the Venus de Milo statue, which was discovered in 1820. The stunning statue is now displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, where thousands of visitors stand in awe in front of its beauty! The beaches on the island are iconic, with the most famous being the gorgeous Sarakiniko beach . This beach boasts a lunar landscape that consists of volcanic gleaming white rock formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you choose to explore its sea caves, jump off the cliffs, or doze under the sun on a beach towel, you’ll remember the enchanting atmosphere of this beach forever.

Kleftiko is another attraction, only reachable with a boat tour . Boasting towering rock formations and emerald waters, this former pirate hideaway is now the imposing trademark of the island! Except for Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, Milos has over 40 beautiful exotic beaches worth visiting.

The hidden gems of Milos are its colorful fishing villages ! In these picturesque villages, you’ll find little whitewashed houses ( syrmata ) with shutters painted in vivid colors and boat garages where fishermen park their colorful little boats. Many fishermen’s houses have been turned into cozy accommodations by the sea. Pop over the villages of Klima and Firopotamos and you will feel like you have traveled back in time!

Milos welcomes everyone, but it is particularly popular with couples, who find the serene natural landscape of the island the perfect setting for their romantic holidays. Indeed, the numerous caves, mysterious catacombs and emerald beaches squeeze enough charm to bewitch any traveler.

Doesn't this sound like heaven to you?

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Explore Milos island through the lens of the talented members of the Greeka community . Share your experience with us or tag us #greekacom on your favorite social media.

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

On the charming island of Milos, numerous hotels and other accommodation facilities are available for you to book for your holidays! Your options include cozy hotel rooms and luxurious suites, well-equipped studios and apartments, spacious villas and the traditional seafront houses "sirmata" . Hotels in Milos have a stunning Cycladic design, offering an authentic experience! The majority of hotels are located in the regions of Adamas and Pollonia.

Some of the most popular hotels are: • Psaravolada   • Santa Maria   • Tania   • Delmar

HOW TO GET THERE & MOVE AROUND?

The most popular way to reach Milos is by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens and other Cycladic islands but the island can also be reached by plane. You can also include Milos in an island-hopping itinerary as it is relatively well connected to other islands of the Aegean sea. Book your ferry tickets with us !

Discover more about the different ways to get to Milos & how to move around.

HIGHLIGHTS: BEST OF MILOS

Discover the best things in Milos! From sightseeing to activities and from tours to restaurants, we present you the best recommendations for the ultimate holiday experience! You can also view the best things to do .

The fishing village of Klima

OUR ISLASND HOPPING PACKAGES

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WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best Greece destinations! The most popular destinations after Milos are Kimolos, Sifnos, Paros and Santorini, all easily accessible by ferry .

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Milos (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Milos (Greece)

A volcanic island with a big natural harbour and rich geology, Milos has been mined for millennia for minerals and material like obsidian, sulphur, and gypsum.

The island’s geology gives rise to coastal sights that photos can’t do justice, like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, and the kind of beaches that can make you gasp.

In the Bronze Age Milos was home to the city of Phylakopi on its north coast, the greatest port in the Aegean at the time.

Later Ancient Klima was the place where the Venus de Milo was found in 1820. This iconic work of art was produced in the 2nd century BC, and a copy cast from the original in the Louvre is on show at the Archaeological Museum.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Milos :

1. Kleftiko

Kleftiko, Milos

From the port in Adamas you can set sail for the southwestern corner of Milos, where one of Greece’s most photographed natural wonders awaits.

Kleftiko is an arena of white cliffs and outcrops that you can only reach on the water.

At the base of the cliffs and rocks are caves, and natural arches, and one has a cave that you’ll pass right through and look up at the captivating layered rock that forms the ceiling.

Like all of Milos these rocks have volcanic origins, and because of their pillar-like appearance they’re compared to the cliff-top monasteries at Metreora.

The name “Kleftiko” is rooted in the word “to steal”, and is from the time when pirates would hide out in these caves.

2. Sarakiniko

Sarakiniko, Milos

If you’ve looked at any tourism material for Milos you’ll have seen images of this alien environment on the north coast of the island.

But you have to go to Sarakiniko in person to gauge the full otherworldly beauty of the place.

The sea and wind have moulded Sarakiniko’s bone-white volcanic rocks into sinuous humps and columns.

With no sign of vegetation, Sarakiniko is like a moonscape, and you’ll want to explore for as long as possible, taking photos of the white rocks and crystalline, blue-green sea.

There’s a long, shallow inlet with a beach at one end and tiered white rocks along the edge where people sunbathe and dive into the water.

3. Firiplaka Beach

Firiplaka Beach, Milos

One of a chain of inviting beaches on the remote south coast, Firiplaka is hemmed by eye-catching cliffs that are streaked with red, brown and yellow.

The sand at their foot is pale and fine washed by surf that is mostly calm unless there’s a southerly wind blowing.

On all other days, kids will be perfectly safe playing in the water which is no more than thigh-deep for some distance.

On the east side is a beach bar with blocks of sun shades and loungers to rent.

In the middle the cliffs bulge out, dividing the beach in two.

At this point there’s a humungous rock with a crack in the middle that opens to a cave on the water.

4. Milos Mining Museum

Milos Mining Museum

The island has a mining heritage that is as old as the Neolithic Period, when it was a source of obsidian for the entire Mediterranean.

Later, Pliny the Elder wrote that Milos provided more sulphur than anywhere in the ancient world, while it was also highly valued for its rich alum deposits.

That mineral history is recorded at this museum in Adamas, offering a summary of all the rocks and minerals mined here down the ages, like gypsum, sulphur, baryte, perlite, bentonite, alum and millstones.

Also interesting is the set of prehistoric obsidian tools and weapons.

You can see the role that these substances still play in everyday life, and get up to speed on mining technology in the 21st century.

In the projection room you’ll hear accounts by miners from different eras.

5. Paliochori Beach

Paliochori Beach

Chances are you’ve never had a bathing experience like Paliochori before.

Some way southeast of Zefiria this beach has a mix of dark golden sand and shingle and is bounded by stratified rocks with red and yellow blotches.

These are laced with sulphur ore and there’s a light smell of sulphur on the air.

Stepping into the transparent water you may sense that it is unusually warm.

That’s because of the many hot springs that bubble up from just below the water’s edge.

At Paliochori you’re close to a dormant volcano, and at the restaurants on the beach you can order food cooked with volcanic heat.

6. Catacombs of Milos

Catacombs of Milos

Comparable to the catacombs of Rome and the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, this network of underground galleries near Trypiti is an early-Christian burial site.

The Catacombs date from the 1st century AD and were rediscovered in 1840 and excavated shortly after by the esteemed German archaeologist Ludwig Ross.

To date three sets of tunnels have been discovered totalling more than 180 metres where 2,000 Christians were interred in the cavities in the walls or in the ground in graves covered with makeshift rocks.

Only two short sections can be visited, but that’s more than enough to get a sense of the place and decipher inscriptions on the walls that go back 2,000 years.

7. Ancient Theatre of Milos

Ancient Theatre of Milos

No more than 200 metres from the Catacombs is a theatre with tiers of pristine Parian marble seats facing the natural harbour and the dark outline of the hills on the west side.

The location alone is enough reason to come.

Belonging to the ancient town of Klima, the theatre would have first been built in Hellenistic times in the 3rd century BC and had to be reconstructed after the city was razed by the Athenians in Roman times.

The theatre is hewn from the hill, and up to eight tiers have been excavated of a monument that could once seat 7,000 spectators (compared to 700 today). Don’t forget to test the acoustics, and search for the faint vestiges of ancient Klima’s walls and towers nearby.

8. Milos Archaeological Museum

Milos Archaeological Museum

From the 3rd millennium until the 12th century BC Milos had the most important harbour in the Aegean, at Phylakopi in the north of the island.

During excavations at the end of the 19th century this site yielded outstanding Early Cycladic, Minoan and Mycenaean artefacts, and many of these pieces are in Room 2 at the archaeological museum.

There’s patterned pottery, figurines, a bathtub and the compelling Lady of Phylakopi, a shrine from the 14th century BC. In the entrance hall stands a copy of the Venus de Milo, where there’s also a burial jar from the 6th century BC and obsidian tools made on the island.

Rooms 3 and 4 have later Geometric, Archaic, Classic, Hellenistic and Roman-era finds like tools, coins, statues, votive steles, tomb reliefs and tables with the island’s own “Melian alphabet”.

9. Plaka Castle

Plaka Castle, Milos

At the village of Plaka on the east flank of the harbour you’ll come to a narrow stairway trailing up the slope.

After a bit effort this will deposit you at the second-highest peak on Milos at the site of a 13th-century Venetian Castle.

Plaka castle was a refuge from pirate attacks, and even if not much is left today you have to go to the top for a panorama of the whole island.

As you climb you’ll pass two lovely whitewashed churches, Panagia Skiniotissa and Panagia Thalassitra.

The stairway gets crowded just before dusk when people scramble up to see one of the most magical sunsets in the whole Aegean.

10. Paliorema

Paliorema, Milos

This beach may not be easy to get to, as you have to take a dirt track through rugged hills for a few kilometres east of Zefiria, but you won’t regret the journey once you get there.

Paliorema is more than just a place to sunbathe and swim, because the beach is backed by the ghostly ruins of a sulphur mine.

This was in business for roughly a 100 years from the middle of the 19th century, and you can find out about the harrowing working conditions at the Milos Mining Museum.

Also at the museum are the tokens that the miners used to buy food from the shop at the mine.

As for the site, there are seams of sulphur in the rocks, and you can venture around rusting pieces of heavy machinery, rails with wagons, a waterfront loading crane, cave houses and the entrances to tunnels.

11. Tsigrado Beach

Tsigrado Beach, Milos

A small cove at the bottom of red and yellow cliffs, Tsigrado Beach is not for people afraid of heights or with impaired mobility.

Unless you arrive by water, the only way down on to this beach is via a steep and narrow crevasse in the rock.

There’s a rope to cling onto and then a ladder will get you down the final few metres.

A sign at the top of the cliff warns you to make the descent at your own risk.

And yet dozens of sun-seekers go down every day, and that’s because the beach is glorious.

There’s quite a large patch of sand, while the glistening water is an arresting shade of turquoise.

You can also wade around to a little cave, where the walls are illuminated by the sunlight in the water.

12. Cave of Sykia

Cave of Sykia, Milos

Like Kleftiko, Sykia can only be approached by boat and you will normally make a stop here on the way round to its more famous neighbour.

Sykia is a collapsed sea cave with a small shingle beach in a breathtaking cauldron of textured white rock.

The light created by the water and this white stone is a joy to behold.

Normally your tour boat will wait outside the entrance to the cave and you’ll go inside on an RIB to take a dip in the sparkling blue water and take snaps of the beach.

13. Trypiti Village

Trypiti Village, Milos, Greece

Walking distance from Plaka and the Catacombs, Trypiti is a traditional village arranged in tiers on the hillside and commanded by the Church of Agios Nikolaos.

These houses were built on the ruins of Ancient Klima, and is where the Venus de Milo came to light in 1820. Along the ridge in the upper part of the village is a line of historic windmills, built in this elevated position to catch the breeze but now converted to accommodation with awesome vistas of the harbour.

Like Plaka Trypiti is a gorgeous place to watch the sun setting over the island’s natural harbour.

14. Adamas World War Two Bomb Shelter

In 1941, Milos was a foothold for the Wehrmacht to launch their Invasion of Crete, and a few bunkers like this one in Adamas were excavated to offer protection for personnel and store resources and equipment.

Adamas has the largest of all, and was used as a shelter by many of the island’s inhabitants during an Allied bombardment 1944. For just €2 you can negotiate the bunker’s long tunnels and 12 chambers.

Taking advantage of the atmospheric setting, the bunker is a kind of art gallery, with graffiti, paintings and imaginative installations.

15. Firopotamos Beach

Firopotamos Beach

Quite unlike any other beach on the island, Firopotamos is both a beach and a tiny fishing port.

This adds another layer of charm to the scene, as the whitewashed fisherman’s houses come right down to the water and on the ground floors have blue-painted doors for their “syrmata”, where the boats are stored.

The beach has a blend of pebbles and white sand, and being in a cove away from the open sea the water is perfectly clear and a dreamy shade of light blue.

At the tip of the headland on the eastern entrance to the cove are some ruins for share-worthy photos.

15 Best Things to Do in Milos (Greece):

  • Firiplaka Beach
  • Milos Mining Museum
  • Paliochori Beach
  • Catacombs of Milos
  • Ancient Theatre of Milos
  • Milos Archaeological Museum
  • Plaka Castle
  • Tsigrado Beach
  • Cave of Sykia
  • Trypiti Village
  • Adamas World War Two Bomb Shelter
  • Firopotamos Beach

The Ultimate Travel Guide for Milos Greece – 10 most amazing things to do

  • Published on January 27, 2023
  • Last updated on November 30, 2023

Milos Greece Sarakiniko

Milos Island gained much popularity in the last few years, and we can understand why. We didn’t get bored for a second while in Milos as there are so many amazing things to do on this island. For us, it was a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. In this blog post, we share the 10 most amazing things to do when visiting Milos and everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Best time to visit Milos Greece

The best time to visit the greek islands is from May to October. July and August are the hottest months and also high season, which means most visitors to the island.

We recommend visiting May/June or September/October for better prices, fewer people, and great weather. We prefer the shoulder months and visited Milos Greece in September, which was perfect. Typical sunny weather but not too busy.

How to get to Milos Island

Milos Island can either be reached by ferry or airplane, depending on where you come from. The national airport of Milos is small and does not serve any international flights. If you want to fly to Milos, you can fly from your home to Athens and change there on a flight to the island. 

If you are island hopping between the Cyclades, you can easily do so with the local ferries. We used the website and app of  ferryhopper  and found it very convenient. We recommend pre-booking your ferry tickets, especially in the high season.

Tip: Ask your accomodation for a transfer from the harbor. Some hotels offer a shuttle. We made the experience that there are barely any taxis in the port, and when a ferry arrives, everyone wants one. 

Sarakiniko Milos Greece

10 most amazing things to do in Milos Greece

What we loved about Milos is how much this little island offers. From the cutest fishing towns to cliff jumping at Sarakiniko beach and evening strolls in the dreamiest greek towns. These are the 10 most amazing things to do in Milos, Greece:

Refresh and snorkel at Paralia Firopotamos

One of the places in Milos that we fell in love with was Paralia (meaning beach) Firopotamos. We didn’t actually spend time at the beach but continued the road to the little church. Next to the church, we found some rocky stairs where we could jump off into the beautiful, blue, and refreshing water. We loved this spot and jumped in several times but also brought our snorkeling great to snorkel along the rocks and find some small but colorful fish.

An aerial view of a village in Crete, Greece.

Visit Sarakiniko Beach for Sunrise

Probably the beach that made Milos so famous, and the funny thing is the actual beach is super tiny, but what attracts all the visitors are the white rocks looking like a landscape on the moon. It’s volcanic rocks that got bleached by the sun over the years.

We wondered if this place could live up to the hype, and yes, it does. It’s genuinely super unique, and it’s a true gem for photographers like us. We loved watching the sunrise from Sarakiniko, jumping off the cliffs countless times, and drying in the sun on the unique white rocks. This place can get crowded, so we recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon.

Sarakiniko Milos Greece

Sunset stroll at Klima Beach and dinner by the sea at Astakas Cafe

One of our favorite evenings and dinners on the Island was when we visited Klima Beach and strolled along this little fishing village by the sea. It was super idyllic and picturesque. Until we found a restaurant by the sea called Astakas Cafe, and that made the evening even better. We got lucky that they had a table available for us. We highly recommend making a reservation. The food was so good, and they had great options for plant-based food. We enjoyed watching the sunset with a glass of greek white wine and this delicious dinner. It was absolutely perfect.

A row of colorful houses on a hillside in Milos Island.

Visit the cute Mandrakia fishing village

Mandrakia is another cute little fishing village by the sea in Milos and is very picturesque. It’s worth a visit and makes an excellent place for photos, and there were cute cats everywhere. There is not much to do, but we found that next to it is a beautiful and uncrowded beach called Tourkothalassa beach which is nice to go for a refreshing swim.

A woman posing in front of boats at Milos Harbor, Greece.

Explore the beaches in the South

Most of the main attractions of Milos, Greece, and also the main towns and lots of hotels are located in the northern part of the island. But when you visit Milos, you can’t miss the southern coast. It’s less crowded and has a lot of amazing and especially sandy beaches.

Fyriplaka Beach

A beautiful big sandy beach with huge rocks in the back. Fyriplaka beach offers sunbeds in the first part of the beach for those who like, but you can also walk a bit further and just chill in the sand.

Tsigardo Beach

Tsigardo is a little adventure beach, and we always love that. It is located between the cliffs, and the only way to get down is through the rocks and to climb down a small ladder. Totally worth it, though, to jump into the clear blue water at the end. It is best to go early as it can get crowded quickly. It’s just a small beach with golden sand.

Agia Kiriaki Beach

Another bigger beach in the south is Agia Kiriaki. It offers sunbeds and also has a restaurant at the beach. A great place to chill and spend some beach time.

The cliffs of Crete overlooking the Aegean Sea, Greece.

Visit Pollonia Beach and have dinner by the sea

Pollonia is another lovely part of Milos on the northeast of the Island. It is a picturesque fishing village built around a windless bay, ideal for unwinding. It offers sandy beaches and a cute town with restaurants close to the ocean. We loved having dinner by the sea here.

Rent a boat for a day and visit Kleftiko

If we had to choose our favorite activity in Milos, then it would be renting a boat from Blue Mile . You can rent their small boats without a permit. Blue Mile gives excellent instructions at the pick-up of the boat, and we felt confident about exploring on our own. It was the best feeling to have our own boat and to explore at our own pace. 

We traveled along the south coast with the rental boat until we reached Kleftiko, a famous rock formation surrounded by the most turquoise and clear water. There we anchored our boat and spent the whole day swimming, diving, and jumping from the ship. Tourist tours came and left, and as we stayed all day, we sometimes had the bay all to ourselves. Highly recommend this unforgettable experience. We recommend bringing a picnic and enough water to drink and then you can enjoy all day here. 

A boat is near a rock formation on Milos island, Greece.

Dinner and sunset at Milos Plaka

The Plaka (main town) of Milos is located in the hills and offers fantastic views at sunset. It also is the prettiest greek town on the island. We loved coming here for sunset and enjoying a beautiful dinner in town. The best sunset spot is at the Plaka castle at the top of the city. It can get very crowded at sunset, but we found a great location above the castle on the walls.

After sunset, we strolled through the cute Plaka and found a charming dinner spot at Avli-Milos. The food was delicious, and the vibes were great.

Plaka Milos Island

Best places to eat in Milos Greece 

O hamos tavern, adamas.

Adamas’s most popular greek tavern is famous for a reason—very traditional greek food in a lovely garden restaurant. Eating plant-based was not the easiest here.

Avli-Milos , Plaka

Astakas cafe , klima.

We found this restaurant by surprise when e wanted to photograph Klima at sunset and got lucky that they still had a table available for us. A reservation is highly recommended, and we had our favorite dinner in Milos here. Great vegan options and super delicious food. Eating by the sea and watching the sunset is just magical.

Barko Tavern , Adamas

Rifaki , pollonia.

An aerial view of a village in Crete, Milos, Greece.

Where to stay in Milos

There are many different options for which part of the island you can stay, and these are our recommendations for choosing a place.

Milos Plaka

Many visitors stay in the Plaka of Milos, which is very convenient for going out for dinner at night but far from the beaches. This wasn’t an option for us as we preferred to stay in an excellent location for exploring the island.

This is our preferred location to stay. It’s close to the harbor when you arrive in Milos, offers lots of food options, and is a great location to explore in all directions of Milos.

We stayed at a cute place called Anita Rooms & Apartments that we found on booking and were super happy with our choice. 

We stayed for some nights in Pollonia at the new and magnificent Phos Suites  and loved this part of the island. It’s a charming town with great restaurants and. a lovely beach—another place we highly recommend staying.

South of Milos

Staying in the south of the island is great for those who want to spend relaxing beach holidays as it is closest to all the island’s sandy beaches. There aren’t many food options like in other parts, and the drive to the towns is a bit far. But we found that there are cheaper accommodation offers there.

A white building with a wooden staircase on Milos island.

How to get around Milos Island

The best and easiest way to explore Milos Island is by renting a Scooter or a car. The freedom that comes with riding your vehicle is priceless. Milos Greece has a lot to offer, so it’s worth having a vehicle to see most of the Island. We recommend Discover Cars  to get the best prices for car rentals.

Budget for traveling in Greece

The following budget helps you to plan your trip to Ios and island hopping the Cyclades islands. Of course, the costs can vary depending on the accommodation, for example.

  • Price per night for accommodation: 60.00 – 150.00 Euro per night (budget to midrange)
  • Cost for two meals per day for two people: 60.00 – 80.00 Euro per day (for lunch and dinner)
  • Cost of scooter rental in Milos: 20 Euro per day / Cost of car rental: 45 Euro per day
  • Boat rental for a day: around 200 Euro for a half-day
  • Ferry Ticket to get to Milos: around 50 Euro per person (depending on which island you are coming fro

An aerial view of a small boat off the coast of Milos island, Greece.

Travel Tips

Internet access in milos.

We recommend buying a local SIM card for the cheapest and most reliable Internet connection while in Greece. We sometimes had bad connections in our Airbnbs.

The most convenient option for travelers is the eSim Card (digital SIM card) from  Airalo . You can download and install a digital data pack and get connected anywhere in the world as soon as you land, so there is no need to waste time looking for a local plastic SIM card. 

Milos quickly became our favorite island of the Cyclades. The island has a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches, places to adventure, and pretty greek towns with amazing food options. The highlight for us was Sarakiniko Beach, and the day we rented a boat and explored Kleftiko. We can never get over the incredibly beautiful, turquoise, and clear water of the greek islands, and Milos offered plenty of it. We would go back instantly and can see why this island gained a lot of popularity.

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Milos Itinerary

Last Updated on January 19, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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Located in the heart of the Cycladic islands , planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Milos itinerary is an excellent way to see this up-and-coming, dreamy, volcanic island.

Neighboring Santorini is easily the most popular fan destination for Greek island enthusiasts, but Milos Island is coming up quickly in popularity. From its picturesque beaches to unique geology, the island of Milos deserves a spot on your trip to the Greek islands.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Milos?

Wondering how many days to spend in Milos? The island itself is quite small, taking just around an hour to reach one end to the other. Although it is small, there are a wide array of things to do.

From unique beaches to spectacular views and more cultural exploration, you’ll definitely find a spot that steals your heart. I’d recommend an ideal 4 days to get the most out of your time on the island.  

With that being said, 1 day in Milos is enough if you’re island hopping and want to see multiple islands during your trip. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the main town, Plaka, as well as soak up some sun at one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

With 2 days in Milos, you’ll explore more of the history of the island, wander one of the most unique rock formations in the Cyclades, and experience local village life on the island.

For those spending 3 days, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a tour and spend more time at the beach. And finally, if you’re spending 4 days, you’ll get to dive even deeper into this unique island.

Beautiful Milos

Getting To & Around Milos

Getting to milos.

Chances are if you’re visiting the Milos, you’ll be arriving by ferry. There is an airport on the island but it only services routes to and from Athens and flight costs are much higher than ferry tickets whether you’re coming from another island or the Greek capital.

There are different ferry options depending on where you’re coming from, and costs can range from around €40-100 for a ferry ticket depending on the speed of the ferry. You can check ferry prices here .

If you’re interested in flying from Athens, expect to pay at least double that round trip for your flight to Milos.

For those arriving by ferry, you’ll arrive at the port, in the town of Adamantas. Adamantas (also called Adamas) is a small town located in the northern part of the island and is conveniently located close to popular destinations for accommodation and sightseeing.

From here, there are plenty of bus options making it possible to easily continue onward to your destination. 

The Milos airport is located in the central part of the island and has bus transport connections with the rest of the island. 

Adamantas harbour town

Getting Around Milos

When planning your trip to Milos, you’ll likely wonder what the best way to get around the island is. My recommendation for the most flexibility during your trip is to either rent a car (you can browse Rentalcars.com for options) or another vehicle during your stay.

Driving on the Greek islands is quite laid back, the area is very open, and drivers tend to be more forgiving than in big cities.

You can either rent a car, motorcycle, or 4-wheel (ATV). ATVs tend to be the most popular on the islands as you don’t need a motorcycle license, they’re easy to drive and are the most cost-efficient option of the three.

With a motorcycle or ATV, you’ll also be able to go to more off-road destinations on the island which is ideal if you’re an adventure seeker.

Regardless of the vehicle, I highly recommend reserving in advance as prices go higher and higher leading up to the summer season, and are steep if you rent once arriving at the island. 

If, for whatever reason, renting a vehicle isn’t in the cards for your Milos itinerary, the island does have a great bus system. Buses are going throughout the island to the most popular destinations as well as less popular destinations, so you won’t be left behind if you need to take a bus.

Tickets range from €1.60 – €2.00 depending on the route you take and can be purchased on the bus. Bus schedules can be found here . 

ATV parked on Milos

2, 3 or 4-Day Milos Itinerary

Whether you’re spending 2 days or 4 days, the Milos is a Greek island destination rich in breathtaking sunsets, crystalline water, friendly people, and rejuvenating air.

The good thing is that the island is quite small, so most things can easily be rearranged on this itinerary depending on the length of your stay and interests.

This itinerary offers something for every kind of traveler, and afterwards, you’ll be waiting to return next summer. 

Day 1 –  Fyriplaka Beach & Plaka

Fyriplaka beach.

Upon arrival on the island of Milos, one of the first things you’ll likely be keen to do is to head to the beach. Like most of the beaches on this itinerary, your first stop, Fyriplaka Beach is located on the southern part of the island as this is where you’ll find the most idyllic beaches.

Fyriplaka Beach is a key part of any Milos itinerary due to its wondrous views, water depths at different levels depending on your comfort level, and volcanic rock surrounding you.

This beach is great for families due to the shallow water areas and has a beach cafe by the water. Either bring your own chairs/towel/umbrella or rent from the beach cafe.

Keep in mind that renting chairs on the islands can be quite costly, especially at the popular beaches (expect to pay on average €30 for a pair of chairs and one umbrella on Milos.)

Fyriplaka beach is located around 22 km. away from Adamantas (the port) and also has nearby bus connections. 

Fyriplaka Beach

Almost every Greek island has its main town, usually with winding steps up to a peak where you’ll find a church and breathtaking sunsets. Milos’ main town is Plaka, stunningly placed on top of a high hill on the island.

Here you’ll find lovely artisanal shops (clothing, jewelry, pottery, etc.), bars of all sorts, restaurants, and idyllic views from every corner. Keep in mind that cars cannot enter the village due to the narrow streets. But this only adds to the picturesque atmosphere, making Plaka a great destination in Milos to start your trip.

After spending the morning/afternoon at Fyriplaka beach, head to Plaka to wander the town, visit the Venetian Castle, enjoy a local Milos dinner, and be taken to a dream world by witnessing a Cycladic sunset.

For dinner, I recommend heading to the restaurant Mavros Xoiros . Mavros Xoiros or black pigs is a wonderful restaurant in Plaka offering local dishes. The veggie dishes are fresh and vibrant, and the meat dishes are typical to the island with locally sourced meat. 

After dinner, make your way to the Church of Panagia Korfiatissa and maybe grab a takeaway cocktail from nearby to watch the sunset. The sunset from the church viewpoint perched above the cliff makes you feel like you’re in a painting, and quite simply, nothing beats it. Be sure to arrive early enough as it can become extremely busy!

Plaka on Milos island

Day 2 – Sarakiniko, Ancient Theater of Milos, Catacombs & Pollonia Fishing Village

Sarakiniko beach.

Easily one of the most identifiable and recognizable landmarks on Milos is Sarakiniko. 

Sarakiniko Beach is located on the northeastern part of the island and looks like pieces of the moon have been picked up and placed on Earth. Milos is one of the most volcanic islands in Greece, and this lunar landscape proudly represents this. If you visit any beach in Milos, make it this one.

From its long, white, smooth rocks encapsulating the sea, to watching brave divers jump the cliffs, Sarakiniko is a must-see and visit for anyone planning to visit Milos.

I only recommend cliff jumping from the small cliffs (the higher ones are extremely high and dangerous) and swimming around the surrounding areas for a swim made of aquatic dreams.

For those with 2 days or more, your day will begin at Sarakiniko, as it’s easily one of the most popular spots to visit on the island. As the day goes on, it gets busier and busier, so the morning is the best time to visit. If you’re feeling awake and adventurous, try heading there for sunrise for a real treat. 

Sarakiniko beach

Ancient Theater of Milos & Catacombs

What’s a Greek Island itinerary without ancient archaeological sightseeing? After spending the morning at Milos’ moon, Sarakiniko, you’ll make your way to the Ancient Theater of Milos. 

The Ancient Theater of Milos is quite literally its name, an ancient theater built-in the 5th century BCE during the Hellenistic period that once hosted festivals.

Located about 5 km away from the town of Adamantas and completely constructed in marble, the Ancient Theater is an ideal spot to learn more about the history of the island as well as the role Milos played in Ancient Greek history.

The theater is free to visit and wander and is usually quite quiet, making it a wonderful place to surround yourself with the history of Milos.

About 500 meters away from the theater you’ll find the Catacombs en route to the little town of Klima. The Catacombs of Milos date back to the 1st – 5th century and are easily some of the most important discovered worldwide.

If interested, the Catacombs are a great spot to head to after exploring the ancient theater to further explore Milos’ history.

Ancient Theater of Milos

Pollonia Fishing Village

A great way to wind down after exploring ancient Milos is to head to the small fishing village of Pollonia, about 13 km away.

Pollonia is easily one of the prettiest fishing villages on the island, small enough to get around but also big enough to have a good amount of area to explore.

With colorful fishing boats by the sea, waterfront taverns, and classic white Cycladic architecture, Pollonia is a solid choice to have a wander and some dinner before heading back to your accommodation. And if you haven’t seen enough of beautiful natural wonders, the Papafragas Beach and Caves are an interesting place to stop at along the way.

Pollonia Fishing Village

Day 3 – Tour of Choice & Provotas Beach

Geological tour or kleftiko boat tour.

With 3 days in Milos, you’ll have the ideal amount of time to explore the island further by doing a tour. My recommendation for tours on the island is a geological tour or tour of Kleftiko Cove. 

A geological tour such as this half-day tour is a great option for those wanting to learn more about the island’s rich geology, as it’s the most volcanic island of the Cyclades.

Milos has a very distinct type of geology due to the way it was formed and a geological tour is a really unique way to learn more about this as well as get more of a particular experience during your stay. Expect to spend around 2-4 hours on a geological tour. 

A tour of Kleftiko Cove such as on this half-day tour or this full-day cruise is a great option for those interested in the popular spot Kleftiko. Kleftiko is one of the most popular spots to visit on the island but unfortunately can only be visited by boat.

Herein lies the Kleftiko Cove tour, where you’ll be taken around the standing rock formations surrounded by turquoise Agean waters as well as given the opportunity to swim and maybe snorkel.

Tours usually leave around Adamantas, can last for half a day or a full day, and end with time to swim on a nearby beach.

Kleftiko

Provatas Beach

If you took part in the geological tour and have a keen interest in spending time at a beach every day of your trip or would like to explore further after you Kleftiko day trip, head to Provotas Beach.

Provotas Beach is located on the southwestern side of Milos and is an incredibly calm beach to wind down from the day and have a swim.

The sand is soft, the water is shallow and there are a few restaurants nearby, making it another great option for a beach if you’re visiting with children.

Alternatively, spend your evening exploring the idyllic village of Mandrakia – perfect for watching a gorgeous Cycladic sunset which is, obviously, one of the best things to do in Milos.

Provatas Beach

Day 4 – Greek Breakfast, Paleochori Beach & Sirocco Restaurant

Breakfast at kivotos ton gefseon.

If you’re spending 4 days in Milos, this will be your final day on this peaceful Cycladic island and you’ll begin it by heading back to the village of Pollonia. Pollonia has Kivotos ton Gefseon , one of the best cafes and breakfast spots on the island and is a must-visit during your trip.

From savory and sweet pies to cooked breakfast and local groceries for purchase, the coffee and food are just as good as the surroundings to enjoy it. With a small garden area with plenty of room to sit, Kivotos ton Gefseon is an ideal spot to start your morning and plan the day.

Paleochori Beach

The 4th and final day of this Milos itinerary will be spent at the volcanic Paleochori Beach. Easily the biggest and most colorful beach on the island, Paleochori is probably the best beach on Milos to head to if you’re looking to stay for the day. 

The main part of the beach is long and developed with multiple restaurant options (one of which you will head to for dinner on this itinerary), and is conveniently located to shelter from the northern winds that most of the island experiences. 

With red and yellow rocks surrounding the area, Paleochori Beach is likely one you’ll be talking about for months to come (until you return!).

If you’re feeling adventurous during your visit, head past Sirroco restaurant, through the caves, and keep feeling around the depth of the sand by the shore. If you’re lucky, you’ll find natural hot springs, and you’re in for a treat.

Palepchori beach

Sirocco for Dinner

One of the things that Paleochori Beach is most known for, is that it’s the home to the restaurant Sirroco .  Sirocco is located directly on the beach and offers unique local dishes, fresh seafood, and its name to fame, dishes cooked in a volcanic oven underneath the sand. 

Not too far below ground level, a large amount of the menu at Sirroco is cooked using geothermal energy from within the sandpit.

A lot of dishes on the menus throughout restaurants on Milos are quite typical and easy to find throughout Greece, but it’s an easy guess that you haven’t had them cooked using geothermal energy! 

The atmosphere is also quite lovely and makes for the perfect place to spend your last evening in Milo watching the sunset, and reminiscing on memories that will likely last a lifetime.

I also recommend making a reservation for Sirroco in advance as it’s incredibly popular and books up very quickly during the summer months that it’s open.

Where to Stay on Milos

Kapetan Tasos Suites – This aparthotel on Milos is an excellent option for those who want their own space on the island while still having the amenities of a hotel. They have a number of apartments available (ranging from studios to multiple bedrooms) that can suit all kinds of group sizes.

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel in the town of Pollonia is a great option for those looking for a luxury escape on Milos. They have a number of beautiful rooms available, a wonderful swimming pool for guests to enjoy and some rooms even include a terrace with sea views.

Semiramis Guesthouse – This quaint guesthouse is an excellent choice for budget travellers looking for their own space on Milos. It’s well-located for exploring the island and all rooms have a private bathroom, air-conditioning and a mini fridge.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Milos hotels!

If you’re searching for a unique Greek island experience and yearning to head to an island off the beaten path, Milos is without a doubt the island for you. Its healing sunsets and peaceful landscape are an ideal place to get away and rejuvenate, and its pristine beaches and exciting culture make it the perfect place to let go. 

Are you considering a visit to Milos? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

milos tourism office

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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  • The Perfect 3 Days in Milos Itinerary for First-Timers

Girl in white dress standing on a church at the Venetian Castle in Plaka, Milos

Milos is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and is located just 65 km (40 miles) away from the country’s capital.

This island attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year, and it’s not hard to see why. With its clear turquoise waters, incredible sea caves, and of course, authentic Greek food – this is a destination that needs to be on your travel bucket list .

With so many sights to see and beaches to enjoy, it ’s best to spend at least 3 days in Milos. In this Milos itinerary, I will show you how you can maximize your time and see the best of this stunning island.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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The Perfect 3 Days in Milos Itinerary for First-Timers

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Spending 3 Days in Milos

How to get to milos, flying to milos.

The easiest and quickest way to reach Milos is to take a flight from Athens. This is the only way you can reach Milos by air, as it’s the only airport that offers flights to the island.

The journey takes around 40 minutes, and several flights run each week. Milos airport is also just 5-minutes from the main town which is handy!

If you want to get to Milos this way, you’ll have to pre-book your flights well in advance, especially in the peak summer season.

Taking the ferry to Milos

Getting the ferry to Milos is much more scenic, although the journey is definitely longer.

Ferries from Piraeus Port in Athens run regularly, and during the summer months, there are up to seven ferry crossings a day.

The journey will take at least 3.5 hours, and that’s if you choose a high-speed vessel. Otherwise, you’re looking at a journey time of at least 6 hours. 

You can also catch the ferry to Milos from other islands, including the famous Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros among others. 

During the summer months, ferries run from plenty of other Greek Islands too including Crete, Ios, and Rhodes.

Usually, there are more ferry operator companies on the same route with various prices and duration. You can use the below search box to compare ferries and check the schedules.

Best time to visit Milos

Milos’s peak season runs from June to mid-September, and this is when the island will be at its busiest.

This is when temperatures are also at their highest, and you’ll have plenty of sunshine too. Temperatures during these months range from 24-30°C (75-86°F).

However, as this is the peak tourist season, accommodation prices will be high and the island can get pretty crowded.

If you’d prefer a cooler and quieter experience, then heading to Milos during the shoulder season may be best. Temperatures range from 19-26°C (66-78°F) during May and late September/October so it’s still a great time to visit. 

Although ferries may be less frequent during the shoulder season, you’ll have a much more peaceful experience and hotel prices will be cheaper too. 

You can also visit Milos in winter but be prepared for milder temperatures, and for a lot of the restaurants/tour operators to be closed. 

Plaka, Milos

How to get around in Milos

There are plenty of ways to get around Milos, so traveling around the island is easy.

Milos has a pretty good public bus system that visits all the central spots on the island, and tickets are very cheap. The central bus station is located in Adamas, but there are other bus terminals located across the island too. 

If you don’t fancy getting around by bus, you can travel by taxi but expect prices to be much higher. 

However, if you want to make the most out of this 3-day Milos itinerary, I’d recommend hiring a car. You can literally drive from one end of Milos to the other in less than an hour, which is very convenient.

This way you don ’t have to rely on public transport timetables and can visit the more hidden spots along the way. Generally, Milos has two main pick-up locations, the airport, and the ferry port in Adamas, so no matter how you get to the island, you ’ll be able to get a car right away.

It’s important to note that the western part of the island doesn’t have properly paved roads so you’ll need a 4×4 if you want to explore that part of the island.

However, the main tourist spots are all in the eastern part of the island so it ’s enough to rent a normal car for exploring unless you want to go off-roading.

milos tourism office

Where to stay in Milos

Deciding where to stay in Milos isn’t easy – especially for first-timers. That ’s why I wrote a complete guide about the best areas to stay in Milos so if you want to get familiar with each area in more detail, you can refer to that article.

It’s entirely up to you where you decide to stay on the island but generally, Adamas, Pollinia, and Plaka are the three most popular areas. 

They are all set in a great location with good transport links and plenty of amenities including tavernas and bars. 

We personally stayed at Cave Suites Milos and I can only recommend this amazing hotel. I ’m not exaggerating when I say that we enjoyed every minute of our stay!

The hotel has a bit of a remote location which means you can enjoy the peaceful scenery but it ’s still central enough that basically every attraction is located within a 10-20 minute drive from the hotel. Moreover, the famous Sarakiniko Beach is only a 4-minute drive away!

However, the true highlight was the staff – they treated us like family and made us feel at home from the first minute we arrived.

Cave Suites Milos

In case they have no availability or you ’re looking for something else, you can check out the below hotels as well.

Do you prefer staying in apartments and holiday homes rather than hotels? Then you need to check my article about the best Airbnbs in Milos !

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel

LUXURY – Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel is situated in Pollinia and offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Each room at this hotel has a balcony or terrace so you can enjoy the beauty of this area. Some even come with a spa bath or private pool! 

The White Suites

MID-RANGE – The White Suites

The White Suites is located in the main town of Adamas and is just a 6-minute walk from the beach. There is a terrace at the hotel where you can enjoy scenic views of the town, and a car rental service is available which is always handy!

Plaka Suites

BUDGET – Plaka Suites

Plaka Suites is a great budget option if you’re looking for a room with sea views. Some rooms even have a terrace or balcony. All units include a kitchen which is handy if you ’re looking to prepare your own meals.

Overview of Your 3 Days in Milos

Breakdown of your 3 day milos itinerary.

  • Day 1: Plaka, Firopotamos, Mandrakia, Fyriplaka Beach, Tsigrado Beach, Paleochori Beach, Dinner at Sirocco
  • Day 2: Kleftiko boat tour, Klima, Ancient Theater & Catacombs, Venetian Castle for sunset, Dinner in Plaka/Adamas
  • Day 3: Sarakiniko Beach, Papafragas Caves, Pollonia, Kimolos & Poliegos boat tour, Dinner in Pollonia

Map for your Milos itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Milos itinerary.

I marked your 3 days in Milos with different colors – I used blue for the first day, green for the second day, and red for the third day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1 of Your Milos Itinerary

Being the capital village of the island, Plaka is one of the must-visit places on every 3 day Milos itinerary.

Since it can get pretty busy during the day, I ’d recommend getting there first thing in the morning to be able to explore while it ’s still quiet.

To start your day off right, head to Kokkino for breakfast. This is without a doubt one of the best places to grab something to start your day!

You’ll have endless choices of pancakes, crepes, waffles, and English breakfasts here, as well as a good coffee. What more do you need?

Breakfast at Kokkino in Plaka, Milos

Afterward, you’ll want to explore the streets of Plaka while it’s still free of tourists. These charming, cobble-stone alleyways are home to plenty of hidden gems, ranging from stunning churches to awesome viewpoints.

One of the most stunning places is the Church of Panagia Korfiatissa as it provides an amazing view of its surroundings. You can even see Plathiena Beach in the distance!

Another unmissable sight in Plaka is the Venetian Castle perched above the village. However, since it ’s an amazing place to catch the sunset, I would actually recommend visiting it another time.

That doesn ’t mean that you can ’t climb up this morning though! So if you have some extra energy, feel free to check it out (but don ’t skip coming back for sunset).

Typical Greek streets in Plaka, Milos

Firopotamos

Located on the northern coastline of Milos, the charming fishing village of Firopotamos is just a 10-minute drive from Plaka, so I recommend going there next.

With a golden sand beach, quaint boathouses, and crystal clear waters – it’s no wonder this place is so popular.

There aren ’t too many things to do here, but the beauty of the place is unrivaled. You’ll want to allow yourself at least a half an hour to explore, or even more if you ’re planning to include some beach time.

During your visit to Firopotomas make sure you visit the Church of Agios Nikolaos and spend some time relaxing on the beach. Although only small, this beach is stunning and is surrounded by a scenic backdrop of blue waters and cliffs.

Firopotamos is a must-visit during your 3 days in Milos, so don’t miss this place!

Firopotamos, Milos

Mandrakia 

If you loved Firopotamos, wait until you see Mandrakia! It’s another scenic fishing village less than a 10-minute drive from Firopotamos, where you’ll find colorful houses lining the bay.

You won’t need a lot of time to explore Mandrakia as it’s super small but trust me, you don ’t want to leave this place out of your Milos itinerary.

If you happen to be visiting during lunchtime and you ’ve worked up an appetite, you can stop for lunch at Medusa , one of the best restaurants in Milos .

The restaurant overlooks the Aegean Sea, so you can listen to the splashing waves while you dine. The food here is simply delicious and is Mediterranean food at its best. You’ll get to sample tasty seafood and Greek specialties, and sip a variety of Ouzo and wines.

With delicious food, breathtaking views, and a charming feel, Mandrakia has to be included in your 3 days in Milos itinerary! 

Mandrakia, Milos

Fyriplaka Beach

Fyriplaka Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Milos , and it’s not hard to see why! With glistening white sands, crystal clear waters, and dramatic landscapes, this beach is the perfect place to relax and head out for a swim. 

It’s also a great place to sunbathe and snorkel, but the highlight has to be the rocky outcrop that’s found about halfway down the beach. The outcrop is huge and there’s even an archway within the rock, so you can swim right through it. 

As the beach is so popular, you’ll find that it can get pretty busy. Parking spots are very limited so if you ’re traveling in high season, you might find it hard to secure a spot in the middle of the afternoon.

In case you ’re traveling without a car, there is a bus stop close to the beach so you can get there easily without any hassle.

milos tourism office

Tsigrado Beach

If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach that’s a little off the beaten path, Tsigrado Beach is the perfect place for you. This secluded beach can only be accessed by climbing down a ladder, so it’s definitely not for everyone. 

However, if you don’t mind a little bit of a climb, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Milos. The beach is only a few meters wide but it’s over 100 meters long, so there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the stunning views. 

The water is crystal clear and the perfect temperature for swimming, so you can cool off after your hike down to the beach. Just be sure to wear appropriate shoes as the ladder can be a bit slippery!

As Tsigrado Beach is located right next to Fyriplaka, it makes sense to visit them both on the same day. However, since getting down to Tsigrado is quite challenging, feel free to skip it – you will see it from the boat tomorrow anyways!

milos tourism office

Paleochori Beach

Paleochori Beach is another spot that just had to be included on this 3 day Milos itinerary. It’s situated on the south coast of Milos and is one of the island’s most colorful beaches.

Instead of a pristine white, the sand is mixed with colorful pebbles giving it a unique shade. The beach is also surrounded by vivid red rock cliffs, due to the volcanic origin of the area. 

Paleochori is the perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, and head for a swim. The water is crystal clear and is extremely inviting on a hot summer’s day. If you’d prefer something a bit more adventurous than sunbathing, there are also plenty of watersports on offer here. 

There are also plenty of tavernas and bars lining the beach, so you’ll have plenty of choices when it comes to dining and beverages.

Paleochori Beach, Milos

Dinner at Sirocco

If you’re looking for somewhere to dine in the evening at Paleochori, then Sirocco is the place to be. The restaurant is set right on the beach, with chairs and umbrellas readily available. 

Sirocco is well known for its traditional Greek dishes, fresh seafood, and luscious desserts.

However, that’s not all! It’s famously known as the ‘Volcanic all-day restaurant’ due to its unique cooking methods. If you decide to dine here, you have the chance to sample volcanic dishes which usually consist of fish or lamb. 

These dishes are cooked under the sand by using the area’s geothermal energy, which is incredibly ecological. The taste of these dishes is truly unique, and something you just have to try to know! 

Not only is the food delicious, but there is also a wide variety of drinks available, and you can even try shisha if you’d like to.

Interior of Sirocco in Paleochori Beach, Milos

Day 2 of Your Milos Itinerary

Half-day boat tour to kleftiko.

You might remember that at the beginning of this Milos itinerary I mentioned that the western part of the island can ’t be visited with a normal car due to the bad roads.

If you rent a 4×4 you ’ll be able to drive around, however, since there are no roads leading down to the beaches, you won ’t be able to visit them.

So what ’s the solution? Well, you need to go on a boat tour!

No Milos itinerary is complete without seeing the island from the sea. Trust me, you won ’t want to miss this experience!

milos tourism office

Known as an old pirates ’ hangout, Kleftiko is one of the most iconic places on the island and it ’s also the number one destination when it comes to a boat tour. This stunning place can only be accessed by boat, and it’s well worth the effort to get there.

The beach at Kleftiko is surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal clear waters. There are plenty of caves and small coves to explore, and the snorkeling is some of the best in Milos.

Most tours take a full day which eats up quite a big chunk of your 3 days in Milos. However, this half-day Kleftiko boat tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy this part of the island without having to sacrifice the whole day.

milos tourism office

The tour starts at 9 am and departs from Adamas port. First, you will pass by several fishing villages as you leave Milos Bay behind. The first swimming stop will be the bay of the Kalogries before you move on to Siki Cave.

Afterward, you will be able to spend a few hours at Kleftiko where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby caves. By the time you get back to the boat, a delicious lunch will be waiting for you.

The last stop will be Gerakas Beach, which is completely inaccessible by land. The boat tour ends at Agia Kiriaki, from where you ’ll be taken back to Adamas with a minivan.

Caves at Kleftiko, Milos

As the picturesque fishing village of Klima is located only a 10-minute drive from Adamas, it ’s a great place to continue your day after the boat tour.

The highlight of the village has to be its traditional fishing houses lining the shore. Each of these houses has a different color, making this spot incredibly photogenic.

You’ll want to leave yourself a good 30 minutes at least to explore these fishing houses, and take some photographs.

If you want to take a little break or you ’re feeling hungry (although I doubt that after having lunch on the boat), you can stop by Astakas Cafe Restaurant which is located right on the waterfront.

milos tourism office

Ancient Theater & Catacombs

The Ancient Theater and the Catacombs are two of the most historic sites on the island. There is just a 10-minute walk between them so it’s a great idea to visit these two sites at the same time.

The Ancient Theater was built by the Romans during the Hellenistic period which was during the 3rd century BC. Considering its age, it’s incredibly well-preserved and offers stunning views of Milos Bay. As a bonus, it ’s entirely free to visit!

milos tourism office

After visiting the theater, you can pay a short visit to the Catacombs of Milos . These catacombs date back to the 1st century but they were only discovered in the 1800s.

There are three catacombs in total, interconnected underground. It’s believed that these catacombs were first used as a burial site by early Christians before they turned into a place of worship and refuge.

The catacombs can only be visited with a local guide who will be appointed at the ticket counter. The tour costs € 4 per person and only lasts 5-10 minutes.

If you ’re visiting with a car, there is a large parking lot close to the catacombs from where you can walk to the Ancient Theater as well. Otherwise, if you ’re looking looking for a workout, you can climb the stairs from Klima too!

milos tourism office

Venetian Castle for sunset

The Venetian Castle is situated in the charming town of Plaka and is a must for any 3 day Milos itinerary. It’s the only remnant left of the island’s Venetian rule and is situated on the second-highest point of the island. 

The castle itself is split into two different sections, the highest uphill section where nobility lived, and the lower section. Both sections of the castle were separated by a wall built in the middle. 

From the top, you’ll get beautiful views of Plaka, Milos Bay, and the island’s scenic beaches. The walk up to the castle takes less than half an hour but allow yourself plenty of time to get up there as most likely you ’ll stop quite frequently to appreciate the views.

Although the views from the castle are spectacular in themselves, they’ll truly take your breath away if you head up there to watch the sun go down. In case you’re visiting in high season, you might want to go up earlier to secure yourself a spot for sunset.

View of Plaka from the Venetian Castle

Have dinner in Plaka or Adamas

To finish off the second day of your Milos itinerary, head down to either Plaka or back to Adamas for dinner. Whichever one you choose, you ’ll be spoilt for choices.

Avli-Milos is one of the highest-rated restaurants in Plaka, or you can head to Archontoula which is known for its delicious Mediterranean dishes.  Phatses is another great choice as it’s lit up beautifully in the evening. 

If you decide to go back to Adamas, I’d recommend heading to Nostos Seafood Experience . This was hands-down one of the best meals I’ve had on the island, and the views from the restaurant are stunning.

However, this experience doesn ’t come cheap so if you ’re looking for a budget option, you can try Gyros of Milos which serves delicious gyros and kebabs.

Dinner at Nostos Seafood Experience in Milos

Day 3 of Your Milos Itinerary

Sarakiniko beach.

Sarakiniko Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Greece. The beach is covered in white limestone, which gives it an otherworldly feel.

The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, but the highlight of the beach is definitely the landscape. With endless white rock, distinctive formations, and huge hollows – you’ll honestly feel like you’ve stepped on the moon.

This beach is one of the most photographed locations in Greece, and you’ll want to allow yourself at least an hour to explore it. If you want to do some swimming or cliff jumping, you can easily budget a couple of hours.

Although the beach feels like it’s a world away from everything, it ’s a very popular place and it gets pretty crowded during the day. That ’s why I recommend heading there first thing in the morning so you can enjoy it without the crowds and secure a parking spot easily.

Girl in blue skirt at Sarakiniko Beach, Milos

Papafragas Caves

After Sarakinino Beach, jump back in your car for a 10-minute drive to reach another unique place in Milos.

Papafragas Caves & Beach is a true natural wonder – the beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal clear waters and it truly looks spectacular.

However, getting down is quite tricky. The parking lot is located on the top of the cliff from where you have to climb down a steep set of stairs.

There is even a warning sign at the beginning of the path so in case you do want to climb down, be very careful! In case it ’s been raining or the weather is too windy, it ’s advisable to skip it.

If you don ’t want to risk the climb, you can simply admire the views from the cliff tops instead before heading to the next destination on your 3 day Milos itinerary.

milos tourism office

Pollonia is one of the most beautiful fishing villages on the island with small whitewashed houses lining the bay and a pristine beach.

You’ll find plenty of tavernas along the waterfront, and they all offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea. You can also visit two beautiful churches in the village – Agia Paraskevi and the Church of Saint Nicholas. 

The next activity on your Milos itinerary will be another boat tour that leaves from Pollonia so it ’s worth arriving a bit earlier and taking a walk around the village.

Pollonia, Milos

Half-day boat tour to Kimolos & Poliegos

A boat tour to the nearby islands of Kimolos & Poliegos is a great way to spend your last afternoon in Milos.

These two uninhabited islands are home to the bluest waters you ’ll ever see! The waters are crystal clear and perfect for swimming, and the beaches are completely untouched. 

Although it ’s possible to visit these islands on a group tour, since this is your last day in Milos, I would recommend treating yourself to a private tour. We booked a private boat tour with Salty Rides and it was definitely the highlight of our Milos trip.

Their boats are spectacular and provide everything you could possibly need on a boat trip, including snorkeling gear, towels, windproof jackets, and even SUPs.

Moreover, you are welcome to use the action camera and the drone on board so you can document your experiences even if you don ’t have your own equipment.

Snacks and refreshments are also included so you literally only need to bring your swimsuits to enjoy a fantastic afternoon.

If you’re looking for a day of relaxation and breathtaking scenery, booking a private boat tour to Kimolos & Poliegos is the perfect activity for you.

Moreover, they also provide private tours to Kleftiko and Sykia Cave as well so if you want to make your trip even more memorable, you can opt for this instead of going on a group tour.

Girl in a boat at Poliegos Island

Dinner in Pollonia

After the boat tour, you must have worked up quite the appetite so I recommend staying in Pollonia for dinner.

We personally ate at Yialos which serves delicious seafood, traditional Greek food, and tasty salads. They also have seafront tables which are perfect for watching the sunset. 

However, you’ll also find plenty of other food choices in Pollonia.  Akrotiri Seafood Obsession and Armenaki are two other popular choices that both serve fresh fish. 

If you’ve had your fill of seafood during your stay on Milos, you can head to Enalion Restaurant instead. They have a variety of other options including marinated lemon chicken, meatballs, and eggplant.

If you’re looking for a place for afters, then this cafe has amazing desserts and coffee! You could even head here before the boat tour if you wanted to. 

Dinner at Yialos in Pollonia, Milos

Planning a trip to Milos?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Milos. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

  • The Ultimate Milos Travel Guide for First-Timers
  • Where to Stay in Milos: 9 Best Areas & Hotels
  • 13 Stunning Luxury Hotels in Milos for a Relaxing Holiday
  • 22 Amazing Things to Do in Milos You Can’t Miss
  • 17 Incredible Airbnbs in Milos, Greece to Book
  • 17 Best Restaurants in Milos You Have to Try
  • 14 Best Beaches in Milos You Can’t Miss

Other Amazing Destinations in Greece: Athens  |  Santorini  |  Mykonos  |  Paros | Naxos

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The Perfect 3 Days in Milos Itinerary for First-Timers

6 thoughts on “The Perfect 3 Days in Milos Itinerary for First-Timers”

hello! this is amazing thank you! i want to go to some greek islands in Sept, and Milos is a definite and will use this itinerary for sure! have you visited any other islands perhaps slightly more lively as would like to do another one along with Milos with a bit of a different vibe – maybe mykonos, Naxos? just wondered if you had any recommendations what could tie in nicely with Milos. thanks!

Hey! Actually, I just came from Greece after spending one month there so I still have many articles to write about my experience 🙂 On this trip, we visited Athens, Milos, Santorini, Paros, and Naxos, and a few years ago I’ve also been to Mykonos so these are the islands I’m familiar with. If you’re looking for a livelier island, I would pick either Mykonos or Santorini. Naxos is pretty chill, it’s more about beaches and good restaurants but still pretty nonetheless. I also have a few articles for Mykonos, you are welcome to check them out! https://shewandersabroad.com/tag/mykonos

Thanks for this article! You helped me plan out my 3 day itinerary. Do you think it is doable to see Milos without a car, with only a bus? (I’m going in early October for 3 days).

I’m so happy to hear that! I think it’s doable but it will be a lot more stressful. Also, there are many parts of the island that are not covered by buses so most likely you’ll have to skip a few places.

Are you able to share how much the private boat tour costs? The website doesn’t list it. Thanks!

Hey, I’ve included links to the specific tours where you can see the prices and availability.

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Real Greek Experiences

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Why Visit Milos? Top Reasons To Visit Milos Island In Greece

Discover the top reasons to visit Milos island in Greece, and why Milos is becoming a must-visit destination in the Cyclades!

Real Greek Experiences in Milos Greece

Introducing Milos in Greece

The Greek island of Milos is one of the Cyclades group of islands. They are located in the Aegean Sea, to the east of mainland Greece. Other nearby islands are Santorini and Mykonos .

A church in Milos Greece

Milos may be best-known as the island where the Venus de Milo was discovered, or for its rich minerals. These days it’s gaining recognition for its fantastic landscapes and beaches.

All in all, Milos is a rising star when it comes to island destinations in Greece. I’d say it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece !

We’ve taken a holiday in Milos a couple of times in the last few years. Based on our experiences, here are some top reasons to visit Milos island in Greece.

Why Visit Milos Island in Greece?

Greece has over 200 inhabited islands. Some of them, like Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and Crete, have been famous for several decades. Others have been under the radar until fairly recently.

A look at why people love to visit Milos

Milos falls in the second category. With tourism steadily rising over the last decade, it’s one of the relatively popular Greek islands to visit these days. However, it has still kept a wild, authentic side, that is more difficult to find in some other Greek destinations.

Here’s some of the top Milos attractions and highlights waiting to be experienced.

1. The world-famous beaches, Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, are astonishing

Milos is a volcanic island, and the local minerals and rocks come in all different colours. As a result, the beaches in Milos are very diverse and overall stunning.

Sarakiniko beach is one of the reasons to visit Milos in Greece

The white lunar landscape that you will have probably seen in photos is the popular Sarakiniko beach . Walk on the spectacular rock formations and go for a swim in the deep blue sea!

Also, check out Mandrakia . It looks somewhat similar to Sarakiniko beach, but is not as popular.

Mandrakia beach, reasons to visit Milos Greece

One of the best activities in Milos is a sailing trip to the famous Kleftiko Beach , with the tall, rugged rocks coming out of the sea.

The boat will take you through and under the rocks, and you can snorkel in the sea caves! This was one of our highlights in Milos.

Reasons to visit Milos - Kleftiko beach

Alternatively, it is also possible to  hike to Kleftiko beach . Just bring your hiking shoes, sunscreen, and lots of water.

2. Milos has over 75 beautiful beaches

Milos also has you covered in terms of relaxing, sandy beaches. Head to Achivadolimni, Agia Kyriaki, Paliochori or Provatas, and enjoy the calm, shallow waters.

Moreover, there are plenty of beaches in Milos where you can have more privacy. For example, follow the dirt roads to Kastanas, Triades or Ammoudaraki. You may even end up being on your own!

Colourful stones on Kastanas beach Milos Greece

Overall, the island’s beaches are quite diverse, and it’s hard to pick one over another. You can easily spend a week there and never see them all! Here are my top ten beaches in Milos .

Just a note – like most of the Cyclades, Milos can be affected by the winds, especially during the  meltemi  season.

Before you set off to a beach, check the weather prediction, or even better ask a local. The best beach in Milos is the one with the least wind on the day!

3. The landscapes and geology of Milos are incredible

Milos was created due to volcanic activity. There are two volcanos on the island, and the last eruption was around 90,000 years ago.

View of Thiorichia beach in Milos Greece

The volcanic rocks cover the largest area of Milos. In fact, wherever you look, you will see multi-coloured rocks! Materials like bentonite, perlite, pozzolana, sulphur and kaolin all exist on the island.

Even if you aren’t an expert in geology, you will definitely be fascinated by the colours. Some of the beaches in Milos, like Sarakiniko and Mandrakia, are surrounded by white rocks.

Others, like Fyriplaka or Paliochori, are multi-coloured.

Colourful landscape at Fyriplaka beach Milos Greece

And there is also the famous Thiorichia beach, which was home to sulphur mines, and can best be described as yellow.

4. Milos has a rich mining history

If you drive around Milos, you will immediately notice the mining areas all around the island, where access is not allowed.

Many of these materials are still being extracted, and you are bound to meet the large mining trucks during your trip.

Reasons to visit Milos Greece - the volcanic landscapes

In order to explore Milos, make sure you rent an appropriate vehicle. Milos has a very extensive dirt road network, and a normal car isn’t suitable for most of them.

Our car was slightly damaged on one particularly tricky dirt road – thankfully nothing that couldn’t be repaired! Here’s my full guide on  how to get around Milos Greece .

When you are in Adamantas, the port town, allow a couple of hours to visit the  Milos Mining museum . It will help you identify all those colourful minerals, while offering an insight to life in Milos over the centuries.

You can also get in touch with  Miloterranean , who will offer their unique perspective on the island.

5. Milos has some really picturesque fishing villages

Apart from the otherworldly landscapes, some of the most photographed locations in Milos are its fishing villages all along the coast. You will immediately notice the fishermen’s houses with their colourful doors.

Colourful syrmata houses in Milos Greece

These houses, called  syrmata , originally consisted of two floors. The family lived on the upper floor, and the boats were stored down below, at sea level.

The most popular fishing village in Milos, especially during sunset, is Klima . I also liked the small settlements of Firopotamos and Agios Konstantinos, on the north coast.

Colourful fishermen's houses in Milos Greece

These days, some of the  syrmata  have been transformed into rooms to let, while locals still live in others.

Tip – if you decide to stay in one of the  sirmata , bring shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, as your doorstep will literally be right on the sea!

If you are also going to the nearby island of  Kimolos , you will see more of the quaint houses.

6. Plaka, the capital of Milos, is a pretty Cycladic town

The capital of Milos is a quaint town up on the mountain, called Plaka . Like most Cycladic towns, it has narrow alleys, which are full of white-washed houses.

Plaka, the capital of Milos island Greece

Plaka is a popular place to visit in Milos, as there are many restaurants, cafes and bars. A few museums and plenty of souvenir shops complete the picture. Visitors will also find a range of hotels and rooms to let .

Here’s what to do in Plaka Milos , and the nearby villages of Tripiti and Triovasalos.

7. The views from the Castle are pretty amazing

Above Plaka, you will see the remains of the imposing Castle, or “Kastro” in Greek. It was built by the Venetians in the 13th century, and it offers incredible views to the Aegean Sea.

The route to the top is clearly marked. On the way, you will pass by a few of the famous  white-washed churches with blue domes .

Reasons to visit Milos Greece - The views from the castle in Plaka

Eventually you will reach the top, where you will find the 200-year-old Panagia Korfiatissa church, dedicated to Virgin Mary. If it’s open, definitely check the interior, where you can see several religious artefacts from the past 500 years.

Allow plenty of time to walk up, as you will want to enjoy all the beautiful views. An hour should be sufficient for most people, but don’t underestimate the time you’ll need to take photos!

8. Milos has some unbelievable sunsets

Think “sunset in Greece” and you will most likely think of Santorini. In my personal opinion, Milos ranks very highly as a sunset island.

One of my favourite places to watch the sunset from was the top of the Kastro in Plaka. Just make sure your battery is properly charged before you head out to see the sunset…

Another great sunset spot is the fishing village of Klima . You can pre-book a table in Astakas restaurant, or just walk around the small settlement and take in the wonderful views.

Sunset in Milos Greece

All in all, any west-facing beach will offer great sunset views. Papikinou, just opposite the popular taverna “O Chamos”, and Achivadolimni, are both great spots.

If you are after something more remote, you can try Agios Ioannis beach , past the monastery of Agios Ioannis Siderianos. You will need an appropriate vehicle, as part of the road is in rather bad shape.

9. Milos has some of the very few catacombs in Greece

Did you know that Milos is home to some of the very few known catacombs throughout the whole of Greece? They may not be as extensive or famous as the catacombs in Rome, but they are very important nevertheless.

The catacombs in Milos served as the first proto-christian cemetery in Greece, during the period 1st-6th century AD.

It is estimated that around 8,000 people in total were buried in the catacombs, at a time when Christianity was not the mainstream religion. The site was abandoned after the big earthquakes that took place in the 6th century.

Inside the catacombs in Milos Greece

This unique archaeological site was discovered in 1844, by which time it had already been looted. The area was researched properly several decades later.

Several artefacts have been excavated in about 200 metres of corridors, such as glass vessels, pendants and other burial objects. The findings have helped archaeologists understand the burial practices and rituals of the times, and also other aspects of people’s lives, such as diet.

Due to the limited space, visitors can enter the Catacombs on a short, guided tour with a guard.

The catacombs in Milos are located near the village of Tripiti, not too far from Klima. There are walking paths that connect these areas.

Fun fact – the catacombs are sometimes classed as a cave. Another famous cave in the Cyclades is the fascinating  cave of Antiparos .

10. Milos has an Ancient Theatre

A short walk from the Catacombs, you will find the Ancient theatre in Milos. This amphitheatre was probably built during the Hellenistic period, but the excavated remains date from the Roman era.

Visit the Ancient Theatre of Milos, Greece

It is estimated that the theatre could originally accommodate an audience of up to 7,000 people. These days, it is open to visit at all times, and occasionally hosts events and performances.

Its current capacity is much smaller, as it can host about 700 people. Ask around if there are any events at the time of your visit.

11. The statue of Venus de Milo was discovered here

When it comes to ancient Greek statues, few are as iconic as the Aphrodite of Milos statue. Best known as Venus of Milos, it is a truly incredible work of art, exalting female beauty. Photos don’t really do it justice though!

Statue of Venus de Milo

Photo source: Pixabay

The original statue can be found in the  Louvre, in Paris . It is made out of marble from Paros island, and is just over 2 metres tall.

There seems to be a debate over the exact time when it was constructed, or who the sculptor was. It is estimated that it was created during the Hellenistic period, possibly around 150-100 BC.

The statue was discovered in pieces in a field in Milos , in 1820. At the time, Greece was still part of the Ottoman Empire, and it wasn’t unusual for Greek antiquities to be retrieved and exported abroad.

Venus of Milos was originally a gift to King Louis XVIII, who later donated it to the Louvre. The exact details of how the statue made it to France are unclear, as there are several theories and speculations. It is likely that French, Ottoman and possibly Greek people were involved in the process.

In later years, the Louvre offered a replica, which can be seen today in the Archaeological Museum in Milos. Even though it’s only a modern plaster cast, I found it really impressive.

The original Aphrodite of Milos statue is in the Louvre

Today, there is a sign at the location where the statue was found. You can easily walk there from either the Catacombs or the Ancient Theatre.

12. Milos has some seriously delicious food

When it comes to Greek food, I am rather biased – I like it a lot! Food in Greece varies a lot between areas, and the Cyclades are home to some pretty unique flavours.

Reasons to visit Milos Greece - Good at O Chamos taverna

In my experience, Milos is one of the best Cycladic islands when it comes to Greek food. We have eaten in over ten restaurants in two trips, and they were all way above average!

If I could single out three restaurants, I would mention “O Hamos” near Adamas, “Medusa” in Mandrakia, and “Bakaliko tou Galani” in Triovasalos. I would return to either of these in a heartbeat!

I actually liked the food in Milos so much, that I wrote a dedicated article about  where to eat in Milos !

In terms of local dishes, my favourite one was  pitarakia , a type of local pie. I didn’t care much about the  karpouzopita  (watermelon pie), but you should try it if you get the chance. Milos is also famous for its amazing local cheeses, goat meat, aromatic honey and capers.

How to get to Milos island

There are no direct international flights to Milos. If your flight lands in Athens, there are two ways to get to Milos: by flight, or ferry.

Milos has a small domestic airport. You can catch a short flight from the Athens International airport Eleftherios Venizelos. It’s best to reserve your flights as early as possible, as last-minute prices are quite high.

A bicycle in Greece Milos

Many people prefer to take a ferry. Ferries from Piraeus port in Athens take anywhere from 2.5 to 8 hours to get to Milos. During summer, there will typically be 6-7 ferries per day. You can check ferry itineraries and book your tickets on Ferryscanner .

The ferries will take you to Adamas (or Adamantas) port in Milos. This is a popular place to stay, and this is where most of the local buses depart from to other areas on the island.

Here’s a detailed guide on  how to get to Milos .

FAQs about Milos

People visiting Milos often ask questions like the following:

What is Milos Greece known for?

The volcanic island of Milos in Greece is best known for its natural beauty. Due to the abundance of minerals, the island has dozens picturesque beaches and outstanding landscapes. In addition, Milos has a rich ancient history, like most of the Cyclades. The famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered here.

Is Milos a good island?

Milos is a great destination. Although its popularity is rising, the island has mostly remained unspoiled. There are plenty of interesting activities, such as boat tours and visiting ancient sites and quaint villages.

How many days do you need in Milos?

If you want to get a good taste of the island, you should allow for three days at a minimum. However, if you want to explore all the beaches, even a week will not be enough!

Is it easy to get around Milos?

Milos is best explored with your own transportation. Public buses will take you to a few areas on the island, which do not include the most remote beaches. I strongly suggest taking a boat tour of the island, where you can enjoy the amazing coastline.

Do you need a car on Milos island?

While a car is not strictly necessary, it will be best to have your own wheels if you want to explore the island properly. You can easily rent a car or quad at both Adamas port and the smaller town of Pollonia.

With that said, and given that Milos is increasingly popular, it’s probably best to pre-book a car. Check out Discover Cars , a search engine where you can compare many providers and book your holiday vehicle easily.

Kleftiko Bay in Milos Greece

Reasons to visit Milos

I could mention several more reasons to visit Milos, but these should be enough to get you started.

If you are planning to go to Milos and have further questions, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section! Also, look out for our Milos and Kimolos book on Amazon .

Here’s some more Greek island guides that you might find useful:

  • Best time to visit Milos and Kimolos in Greece
  • Where to stay in Milos
  • 10 Beautiful villages in Milos
  • Reasons to visit Kimolos
  • Five incredible Greek islands near Santorini  (yes, Milos is one of them!)

Islands near Santorni - Crete

2 thoughts on “Why Visit Milos? Top Reasons To Visit Milos Island In Greece”

Where do you recommend staying in Milos . Many Thanks Morag

Hi and thanks for your question! Having been twice, Adamas is probably better if you are planning to drive around a lot, as it’s more central, but I also enjoyed staying in Pollonia. We had our own transportation though, which is important for Milos. We’ve written a long guide on where to stay in Milos here which gives a lot more detail!

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milos tourism office

April’s solar eclipse greatly boosted tourism spending in Maine

By Nick Song, Maine Public

Spending by tourists in Maine increased by 23.4 percent during the solar eclipse in April, according to findings released by the Maine Office of Tourism on June 18.

Compared with 2023, hotel occupancy throughout the state went up by 47 percent while short-term rentals increased by 27 percent. Visitor spending at bars and other nightlife businesses increased by 79 percent, while gas stations and recreational businesses across the state saw a 45 percent increase.

Over five days this spring, visitors flocked throughout the state to get stationed for the solar eclipse. Aroostook County saw its visitor numbers rise by 40 percent, while western Maine saw a 25 percent increase. The largest share of out-of-state visitors came from Boston and New York. The Office of Tourism also noted a significant increase in visitors from Hartford, Connecticut; Providence, Rhode Island; and Burlington, Vermont.

Carolann Ouelette, the director of the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, said the eclipse provided a unique opportunity to attract visitors into the state during a traditionally slow time of the year.

“The welcome that visitors received and their introduction to more of Maine’s rich natural beauty supported Maine’s growing reputation as a travel destination,” Ouellette said in the release. “Their appreciation is evident in the positive feedback we heard from communities about how respectful eclipse travelers were during their visit.”

The results were compiled by data firm Zartico by analyzing anonymized spending and geolocation data.

This article appears through a media partnership with Maine Public .

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  1. Contact

    Milos, Adamas Center 848 00 Cyclades, South Aegean (Notio Aigaio), Greece. P.O.B. 122218. Tel: +30 22870 22182. e-mail: [email protected]. Greek National Tourism Organization GNTO (EOT) tour operator license number 1172E60000041401. ... office winter working hours. Monday to Friday. 09:00am-17:00pm. Saturday & Sunday.

  2. Milos

    Plaka, the capital of Milos, Adamanta one of the biggest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, Pollonia, Chivadolimni or Emporio with the small lagoon and iron mines are just a few of the island's beautiful villages you should explore. Let the journey begin: Plaka is built on a hill 220 m above Adamantas Bay. The white washed architectural island style with the charming chapels and narrow ...

  3. Milos Island

    Milos Island is located west of Santorini, right between Heraklion, Crete and the Greek mainland. The 5,000 inhabitants of Milos Island earn their living primarily through tourism and mining, and to a lesser extend through fishing, farming and agriculture. Milos Island - The Island of Lovers

  4. Welcome to Milos

    Welcome to Milos Municipality Tourist Portal Festival. Skip to content. Home [email protected] 2022-05-16T00:46:55+02:00. Toggle Navigation. En. En; Gr; Welcome to Milos. Municipality. Tourist Portal. Festival

  5. Tourism in Milos island, Greece

    Information about Milos tourism in Cyclades islands: Photos, sightseeing, things to do and more. Need to organize your holiday? Send your request! (+30) 211 85 03 006. ... There is a tourist information office nearby the port where you can ask for all the information you want concerning your trip.

  6. Milos Greece

    Milos is an island in the Cyclades, shaped by its volcanic past to offer its visitors incredible beaches and an exotic beauty unlike any other island in Greece. To many, Milos is the most exotic island in the Aegean Sea because of its extraordinary colours and landscape and it is, without doubt, one of the most impressive in the Cyclades.

  7. Milos Might Be the Most Photogenic Island in Greece

    Domes White Coast Milos . Situated on the northern coast, Domes White Coast Milos is "a little more remote," but worth the extra effort to reach for the high-end service, according to Agnos. A ...

  8. Milos Island, Cyclades Greece

    Milos is the most Western island of the Cyclades, not far from other known islands like Santorini and Sifnos. It is part of an archipelago, which includes the islands of Kimolos, Antimilos, Poliegos and the small islands of Glaronissia, and Akradies. Exploring the archipelago is a colored dream to discover, renting one of the many boats doing ...

  9. Milos 101: The Beginner's Guide to the Greek Island of Milos

    It's the 5th largest island in the Cyclades archipelago, located west of Santorini, between Heraklion, Crete and the Greek mainland. Some 5,000 people call the island home, making their living through fishing, farming, agriculture, mining and tourism. Just four hours by ferry from Athens, Milos is an unspoiled volcanic island which is still ...

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    Milos is one of the best Greek islands to visit in the Cyclades. Milos is the most southwestern island in the Cyclades, close to Folegandros and Sifnos. I spent 5 days on Milos on my first visit, and it's quickly become my favourite Greek island! Milos is enormous, with more than 70 gorgeous beaches, beautiful, traditional villages and awe-inspiring sights like Klima fishing village ...

  11. Milos, Greece: When To Visit, Where To Stay & Packing Guide

    The Best Time to Visit Milos. Spring and Fall are without a doubt the best times to visit Milos. Like most of Greece, July and August have the hottest days and are major boom months for tourism. To beat the heat and the crowds, traveling in the shoulder seasons will give you the best of all fronts.

  12. Visiting Milos: Everything You Need to Know

    The official currency in Milos, Greece, is the Euro (€). ATMs are available in the main towns, and most businesses accept credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small shops and local markets. Tipping is customary in Greece, and visitors should follow the local etiquette.

  13. Milos Travel Guide

    Milos is one of the Cycladic islands of Greece. It is located almost halfway between Athens and Crete in the Aegean sea. With around 5,000 permanent inhabitants and an area of 160 square kilometres, it is the fifth biggest island in the Cyclades after Naxos, Andros, Paros and Tinos. Milos island has something of a laid-back feel.

  14. Milos Greece: Travel Guide 2024

    Discover our best island hopping packages including Milos! Athens - Sifnos - Milos 7 days from € 842.00. Mykonos - Sifnos - Milos 7 days from € 918.00. Santorini - Sifnos - Milos 7 days from € 809.00. Athens - Milos - Santorini - Paros 15 days from € 1437.00. View more packages.

  15. Milos, Greece: 12 Best Things To Do (2024 Travel Guide)

    Read this travel guide with the best things to do in Milos, Greece. Milos, Greece: 12 Best Things To Do. Europe; ... Greece has great summers and is a popular tourist vacation spot. This means prices are much higher during the months June-September and the beaches will be much busier. The spring and fall months are the perfect time to visit.

  16. 8 top things to do in Milos

    Sarakiniko. A sight that says you could only be in Milos. The lunar landscape of Sarakiniko has been captured in so many photos but nothing prepares you for the real thing. The limestone-white rock, shaped and smoothed to resemble the surface of the moon, is dramatic enough. But then comes the contrast with the deep blue sea and the little ...

  17. The Ultimate Milos Travel Guide for First-Timers

    Renting a car in Milos during the peak tourist season costs around €70 per day excluding fuel but if you're traveling during the shoulder season, you might find rental car deals for €30-40 per day. The main car rental companies are Volta4u, Enterprise, and AutoUnion. They all have their main offices in Adamas but you can also ask for your ...

  18. 15 Best Things to Do in Milos (Greece)

    At this point there's a humungous rock with a crack in the middle that opens to a cave on the water. 4. Milos Mining Museum. Source: lightlook / shutterstock. Milos Mining Museum. The island has a mining heritage that is as old as the Neolithic Period, when it was a source of obsidian for the entire Mediterranean.

  19. The Ultimate Travel Guide for Milos Greece

    10 most amazing things to do in Milos Greece. Refresh and snorkel at Paralia Firopotamos. Visit Sarakiniko Beach for Sunrise. Sunset stroll at Klima Beach and dinner by the sea at Astakas Cafe. Visit the cute Mandrakia fishing village. Explore the beaches in the South.

  20. Milos Municipality

    Tourist office, Tel.: 22870 22445 ... 22870 22445, Email: Requires Login as Tourism Professional; Organizational Structure / Affiliations / Networks / Memberships / Relations. ... Citizens' Service Centers (CSC) Citizens' Service Center of Milos Municipality (0045), MILOS, KYKLADES, GREECE; Museums: Maritime Museum of Milos , MILOS, KYKLADES ...

  21. The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Milos Itinerary

    Located in the heart of the Cycladic islands, planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Milos itinerary is an excellent way to see this up-and-coming, dreamy, volcanic island.. Neighboring Santorini is easily the most popular fan destination for Greek island enthusiasts, but Milos Island is coming up quickly in popularity. From its picturesque beaches to unique geology, the island of Milos deserves a spot ...

  22. The Perfect 3 Days in Milos Itinerary for First-Timers

    The Venetian Castle is situated in the charming town of Plaka and is a must for any 3 day Milos itinerary. It's the only remnant left of the island's Venetian rule and is situated on the second-highest point of the island. The castle itself is split into two different sections, the highest uphill section where nobility lived, and the lower ...

  23. Why Visit Milos? Top Reasons To Visit Milos Island In Greece

    6. Plaka, the capital of Milos, is a pretty Cycladic town. The capital of Milos is a quaint town up on the mountain, called Plaka. Like most Cycladic towns, it has narrow alleys, which are full of white-washed houses. Plaka is a popular place to visit in Milos, as there are many restaurants, cafes and bars.

  24. April's solar eclipse greatly boosted tourism spending in Maine

    By Nick Song, Maine Public. Spending by tourists in Maine increased by 23.4 percent during the solar eclipse in April, according to findings released by the Maine Office of Tourism on June 18.. Compared with 2023, hotel occupancy throughout the state went up by 47 percent while short-term rentals increased by 27 percent.