About Milos
The dreamy little island of Milos is part of the Cyclades islands in Greece. However it’s actually not that little. In fact, Milos is one of the biggest islands of the Cyclades. The island is a pure gem in the Aegean Sea with one of the most exotic places and the clearest blue water you can imagine. Milos is still not on the radar of most tourists, therefore the perfect island if you’re looking to find authentic Greek culture without large hordes of tourists. Who’s in for a large portion of Mamma Mia vibes!?
Best time to visit Milos
Being located in Europe, Milos may get a bit pricier and busier in the peak season of July and August. However you can’t compare the peak season of Milos with other famous greek islands. Shoulder season is definitely the best time to visit, which is May/June and September. The temperatures during these months are not crazy hot (as they can be in July/August) and you’ll find better deals on hotels and flights!
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How to get there
There are 2 options for you to go to Milos and each has it’s pro’s and con’s.
By Ferry
The first option (and if you ask me the best!) to enter Milos is by ferry. As many other travelers, you may be island hopping your way through Greece (which is very easy and super fun!). There are multiple daily ferries leaving from Athens or other Greek islands, that takes you to Milos within a few hours depending on the price. Make sure to download the app ‘ferry hopper’, before you hop on your plane to Greece. Here you’ll find all the ferry routes and schedules between the islands and book your tickets directly through the app.
Or check their website here
We payed €70 per person one way (June 2021) for the ferry from Mykonos to Milos. However, we’ve heard that the prices has gone up in the meantime, so make sure to check the prices on the website mentioned below or their app.
Find all the ferry schedules and prices here.
By Airplane
Entering Milos by airplane is only possible through Athens as Milos doesn’t have an international airport. SkyExpress offer flights from Athens to Milos multiple times a day, that will take you there in about 40 minutes. Even though, this is not the most environment-friendly option, it may be an option for people on time limit. Or for those dealing with seasickness. I’m dealing with this myself quite a lot, but I didn’t have any problems on the boats.Sustainability tip! Try to avoid flying for short distances for environment reasons if other options are available.
How to get around
Renting a Scooter/ATV
Because there’s not many (reliable) public transport on the island, renting a scooter or ATV is the best option to explore every inch of the island. You can rent a car on the island, but at some places there is really limited parking space which makes it a bit more difficult. Therefore you may want to skip that option.
Public Transport
However if you’re really on a tight budget, there is public transport. The only problem is that these busses are not driving to all the places on the island and you have limited time frames to choose from.
If you’re choosing to spend your time exploring the island by public transport, consider maybe renting a scooter/car for 1 day and visit the more secluded places. That you otherwise wouldn’t be able to see with public transport.
We decided to rent a scooter for our time in Milos and we could always find a little spot somewhere. Book a scooter upon arrival in some of the shops in town. Before you rent one, make sure to ask at multiple places around for their prices. Some shops will come up with higher prices, but as you decide to look further, they’re mostly always willing to lower the price ;).
Transportation prices:
Scooter: around €20/25 per day.
ATV: around €30/35 per day.
Car: starting from €70 per day.
Where to stay on the island
Basically there are 3 main places to stay in Milos. All three are a great options, so you can’t go wrong with any of these.
Adamantas
This is a lively town where all the ferry boats come in. It has great cocktail bars(!), many restaurants and small boutique shops. We decided to stay here and it was the perfect base for us! Capetan Giorgantas is owned by a lovely family and I highly recommend staying with them. They’re happy to help you with anything during your trip and they have an amazing breakfast buffet.
Click here to book your stay with them!
Pollonia
A more quite town along the northern coast with amazing restaurants, could be a great option for couples or families.
Plaka
Plaka is the main town located on a hill. Here you’ll find the beautiful ‘old town’ where you can wander around the small alleys with authentic greek restaurants and a great atmosphere! However cars and scooters are not allowed in the old town and it’s located on a hill so you will have to walk up.
As you read, you basically can’t go wrong with this choice. All places are amazing and we enjoyed all of them!
Check out all accommodation options in Milos here.
Where to eat & drink
During our time we’ve tried many restaurants, from authentic greek food to japanese and italian. Here’s a list of our favorites.
Astakas, Klima – Autentic Greek food
Medusa, Mandrakia – Greek food
Hanabi, Pollonia – Japanese (sushi)
Avli-Milos, Plaka – Greek (the vegetarian lasagne is very good!)
Garden the Juice Bar, Adamantas – smoothies & juices
Fiki Bar, Adamantas – Greek cocktails
5-day Trip Itinerary for Milos
Day 1
After you had a good night rest, you’ll kick off your day first by searching for a scooter. Once you’ve found one head off to some beaches and explore the island a little bit more.
Beach Hopping
You’ll find many beaches if you drive around the island. We loved visiting Papafragas Beach/Caves and Alogomantra Beach, which are located on the northern part of the island.
Sunset at Klima
Before sunset, make your way to the fishing village, Klima.
Milos has many fishing villages, but Klima has to be one of the prettiest! Wander along the cute littles houses of all different colors along the harbor.
When you’ve witnessed the beauty of the colorful houses, have an authentic Greek dinner at Astakas. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Day 2
Sarakiniko
Set your alarm early today and head off to Milos’ most famous and unique place, which is Sarakiniko Beach! You may not really call it a beach though, it’s more of a lanschape. Sarakiniko is created by years of erosion by wind and water against the volcanic rocks. This has created an unique landscape, that looks like the moon actually!
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Mandrakia
After your time in Sarakiniko, further your journey to Mandrakia. In this old fishing village you’re able to witness authentic greek culture. It truly feels like going back in time when visiting Mandrakia. Being such a beautiful and peaceful place, it’s probably my favorite spot on the island.
Firopotamos
Belly all full, so let’s head to your last stop of the day. We’re not yet done with all the fishing villages here. You just can’t skip Firopotamos on your trip to Milos. It’s only a tiny town on the northern coast of the island. Stroll around town for a bit and head to the beach later for a relaxing afternoon.
Make sure to bring enough drinks & snacks to Firopotamos as you’re not able to find anything in this tiny town!
Adamantas
At the end of the day enjoy some time exploring Adamantas and have dinner in one of the many restaurants around. Not quite ready for an early night? Go for some greek cocktails at Akri Bar!
Day 3 in Milos
Tsigrado
Today is going to be exciting! After you’ve had breakfast, it’s time to explore the southern part of the island. If you’re in for an adventure, the first stop is Tsigrado Beach. You’ll need to do some effort to reach this beach as you have to climb down a few ladders and ropes. Don’t let this scare you off, because it’s definitely worth it and the water is insanely blue!
Parafliki Beach
Located close to Tsigrado, Parafliki Beach is next on your beach hopping day. This is quite a famous and large beach, but you’re able to grab yourself some lunch and enjoy here.
Pollonia
Leave the south coast for now and head back north to Pollonia. Explore the town a bit during golden hour and have dinner at one of the high quality restaurant at the harbour.
Day 4 in Milos
Boat Tour
Not every spot in Milos is accessible by land. Go on a full-day sailing tour (half-day also possible) around the island and explore exotic, untouched places. This was by far the most fun day on our Milos trip. We’ve snorkeled in caves, seen the most blue waters, met amazing people, had amazing food and enjoyed! And yes, the water on the photos were really that blue! 😉
Make sure to book this tour beforehand in Adamantas. I can highly recommend Aquatta Yachts. They have great sailers/guides, amazing food (vegan+vegetarian available) & small groups.
Sunset at Plaka Castle
If you went for the full-day sailing tour around the island head you way up the hill to visit Plaka. The best sunset spot is found on the top, the Venetian Castle. Once the sun has set, head your way down and fill your belly in one of the many authentic greek restaurants.
Day 5 in Milos
Trypiti
Unfortunately, we’ve come to the last day on your Milos trip. Today is going to be the last day of exploring and is starting with some historical sites.
Trypiti is no big town or city and you’ll only stroll around for a bit, but it’s worth a short stop on your way to the first sight.
Ancient Amfi Theater
Not only Rome has impressive ancient theaters, Milos as well! Visit the most historical site on the island, that dates back to 3000 years BC. The theather is well preserved and it has incredible views over the island and the ocean.
You don’t want to be here in the middle of the day, because of the heat. Therefore, make sure to start your day early!
Kleftiko
If you did the full-day boat tour the day before, you’re taking the ferry to visit Kleftiko this afternoon. Boats leave from the harbour of Adamantas. Enjoy your time swimming, snorkeling and enjoying the amazing surroundings.
If you already visited Kleftiko, I recommend for you to head to a beach for the afternoon. Check out Paliochori Beach where they cook you food on the beach or one of the many other around the island.
Credits to @bry.cunningham for this drone footage.
Your last evening, you probably already started packing, so I recommend for you to stay in the town where you’re staying at or head to your favorite spot to enjoy your last night in Milos. Make sure to watch the sunset, as they are insanely beautiful in Greece! ❤️
Conclusion
Milos is not very large, but there’s much to see and do. This itinerary is based on my experience and thoughts. Of course you’re able to change it to your needs and skip those things you’re not interested in or even some days.
If you’re limited on time, this can all be done in 4 days for sure. For me, I like to travel slow and truly experience places to the fullest and even revisit some spots I love (especially for sunset or photography!). At the end, most important is that YOU are having fun, as this is your trip! 🙂
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Doe je goed😘