Milos is one of the volcanic Greek islands, located in the southernmost part of the Cyclades island complex.
If you're looking for an island with picturesque fishing villages, beautiful beaches and amazing food, then this is the perfect choice. The variety of landscapes in Milos is unreal!
Each place is incredibly different from the next, ensuring you'll never get bored.
In this interactive guide you'll find a list of the best things to do, where to eat, where to stay and all the infos you need!
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The most popular and usually most affordable way to get to Milos from Athens is by ferry from Piraeus Port.ย The average journey from Athens to Milos takes 3-5 hours, depending on sea conditions. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as tickets tend to sell out quickly.
In Mandrakia you can find both a beautiful wild beach - it's next to the village and it's called Tourkothalassa, is one of the least known beaches in Milos and that is why is not crowded, we had it almost all for us - and a beautiful picturesque small fishing village! Mandrakia is def one of my fav spot!
This picturesque village is both a fishing port and a beach with amazing blue water! There is a free public part of the beach and a private beach club where you can rent a sun bed.
Good to know: there is only one bar on the beach
This is not actually a beach, there is no sand strip but a fishing hamlet so I'd suggest you to come here before sunset time! It's a very famous spot to watch the sunset and I get why! With its colorful seafront fishermen's houses it's definitely one of the most characteristic spots. There is only one cafe/restaurant so I would suggest you to stop here for dinner (name of the restaurant is in the "where to eat" section)
The most famous beach in Milos! Its moon-like landscape is what makes this beach so unique. There is only a very tiny sand strip; the rest is rock. We went there at 10 am, and it was already really crowded, so try not to go later than this if you also want to take pictures. Also, consider that you will need some time to explore it; it took us about 1 hour. There are no bars, so don't forget to bring water and food!
One of the few big sand beaches in Milos! Here you can either pay for a sun bed and umbrella or you can stay in the free part of the beach.
Good to know: there is only one bar
This is such a hidden paradise! The way to go down this beach it's the funniest part, not easy but not impossible.. you have to go down a steep narrow passage dug in the rock and two steep ladders. If you want to feel extra safe consider wearing sneakers and not flip flops like I did eheh And try to pack everything in a backpack so your hands are completely free! There is nothing once down so make sure to bring water and food! Also try to come early in the morning because the beach is very small and it starts getting very crowded around lunch time
Papafragas is a very particular beach, it consists of 3 tiny canals passing through high sea cliffs forming beautiful caves and arches! Two of the canals have small sand spots but only one is easy to access
Kleftiko Beach in Milos is where white cliffs and majestic rock formations gracefully rise above the pristine and transparent waters of the sea. These awe-inspiring rocks have taken unique shapes over time, creating numerous archways and inviting small pools, providing an extraordinary snorkeling experience.
This spot is only accessible by boat. The boat trips depart from the port of Adamas so here you will find lots of tour operators to choose from! If you prefer to book a boat trip online in advance, check the link I attached below where you can book one :)
Pollonia is a gorgeous village that maintains its fishing traditions while boasting an abundance of charming taverns and delightful streets to wander through.
As one of the more popular destinations on the island, Pollonia tends to be livelier and slightly pricier compared to other villages but it's def worth a visit. I would suggest to come here for dinner :) Check the "where to eat" section
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More things to doย
Boat tours
Enjoy a small group experience that includes visits to Cape Vani, Kalogries Beach, Agios Dimitrios bay and the cave of Kleftiko. Complimentary lunch, snacks, drinks, access to snorkeling equipment, and GoPro photos.
Visit remote, boat-only accessible places, admire stunning landscapes and explore the sea caves of Kleftiko, in a guided speedboat cruise with Volcano boat.
Grab your bathing suit and towel for a day-long cruise around Milos. You'll stop to swim at hideaway coves, check out the cave of Sykia, and admire the rocks of Kleftiko.
Hop in a kayak at Firiplaka Beach to explore the coastline of Milos island, where white sand shores and volcanic sea caves beg to be discovered. Led by a local guide, the tour follows a round-trip route to Tsigrado and Gerakas, two of the must-visit Milos beaches.
Milos Island offers a delicious array of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional flavors.
Here is a list of my favorite restaurants in Milos:
When you go to Mandrakia make sure to stop for lunch here! It's sea front with very good traditional food and lots of sweet cats! They don't accept reservations
This is the restaurant where you should have dinner after watching the sunset in Klima! I say "after" and not "during sunset" cause there are so many people coming here for watching the sunset that you will end up having dinner not with the sunset view but with all the people taking pictures and ruining the moment! They cook fresh sea food and it is sooo amazing! Try to make a reservation or otherwise you will have to wait one hour for a table as we did
If you want to try typical and amazing food this is the right place!! Expect a long queue if you go for dinner. If you go for lunch there are more chances to find it less crowded.
If you go to Pollonia you can have a very romantic dinner here, there are some tables right in the sand with beautiful view on the port!
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Where to stay
Choosing the right area to stay in Milos largely depends on your interests and the type of experience you're looking for.
Here's a breakdown of the main areas on the island:
1. Adamas (Adamantas)
- Adamas is the main port and commercial hub of Milos. It's the most convenient base as it offers easy access to ferry connections, shops, restaurants, and car rental agencies. Accommodations here range from budget-friendly to mid-range, making it suitable for various budgets. If you prefer to be in the center of the action, Adamas is a good choice.
2. Pollonia
- Pollonia, located on the northeastern coast of the island, is a charming fishing village with a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. It's known for its beautiful beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, and picturesque surroundings. Pollonia is ideal for couples and those seeking a tranquil getaway.
3. Milos Beaches
- If your primary goal is to spend your days on the beach, consider staying in accommodations near the beach of your choice. Popular beachfront areas include Sarakiniko, Firopotamos, and Klima, where you can find lodging options with direct access to the sea.
Transportation Considerations:ย ย
Keep in mind that while Milos is a relatively small island, having your own transportation (car, scooter, or ATV) can provide the flexibility to explore different areas. If you don't plan to rent a vehicle, staying in a town with good bus connections like Adamas or Plaka can be advantageous.
Within 200 metres from the beach, the Cycladic-style Mirabeli Studios offers apartments in Apollonia in Milos. Restaurants and mini markets can be found within 700 metres from the complex.
Each apartment opens to a balcony with views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding area.
Surrounded by bougainvilleas and various trees, Medousa is centrally located in Adamas of Milos, just 100 metres from Papikinou Beach.
Decorated with lively colours and wooden furnishings, the studios enjoy views over the garden or partial views over the Aegean Sea.
Perched on a cliff offering panoramic sea views, Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel is located in Pollonia and features an overflow swimming pool and an on-site bar. It offers minimal, Cycladic-style accommodation with views over the Aegean Sea and free WiFi.
Set right on the sea in Mytakas, Domes White Coast Milos, Adults Only - Small Luxury Hotels of the World offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
Each suite comes with a private swimming pool and sea views.
Featuring a sun terrace with views over the Aegean Sea, the Cycladic-style Olea Bay Hotel is located in Adamas, just steps from Papikinou Beach. It offers minimally decorated units with free WiFi access and sea view.
Situated in Adamas, just 350 metres from a sandy beach, Santa Maria Village Resort & Spa features a pool with hydromassage jets, and a poolside bar serving cocktails with views over the Aegean Sea.
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Getting around
The best way to get around the island is by renting a car, a scooter or ATV. You can directly rent it there or book online:ย
Staying for 4 to 5 days is really okay, but it's up to you! If you are the type of person who stays all day long at just one beach and takes things slowly, you should stay for 7 days. However, if you prefer to explore and visit one place in the morning and another in the afternoon, 4 full days are perfect!
Travel insurance
Don't forget to get a travel insurance for your trip! HeyMondo covers medical expenses, baggage, travel disruption, & more
The best time to visit Milos is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. The shoulder season (May and September/October) is ideal, as the water is still warm, and the crowds are smaller.
I hope this guide will help you plan an amazing trip!ย
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