Milos Island Guide

Milos Island seemed even more magical to us with each visit. Four years have passed since our first trip, and although the island is now much more popular, it has lost none of its charm. With its pure white cliffs, turquoise sea, and colorful fishing villages, Milos remains one of the most special corners of the Aegean. Even spending a few days here brings a sense of peace. You can stay on the island for a week and explore every corner, but even if you only have 2-3 days, Milos will give you unforgettable memories.

Places to Visit in Milos Island

Sarakiniko Beach: Its white volcanic rocks make you feel like you’ve landed on another planet. At sunset, when the colors of the sky reflect on the stones, the view is truly unforgettable.

Kleftiko: Once a secret hideout for pirates, now a magical cove where towering cliffs meet the sea. Accessible only by boat tours, it’s one of the island’s most iconic spots.

Klima Village: Famous for its colorful houses built right on the water. It’s impossible to leave without taking photos. In the evening, the calm atmosphere of the village is a delight.

Plaka: Considered the heart of the island, with stone-paved streets and breathtaking sunsets. Perfect for relaxing in small cafés with a cool drink after a day of exploring.

Milos Catacombs: An underground treasure and one of the island’s most important historical sites. The atmosphere immediately draws you in once you step inside.

Pollonia: A peaceful fishing village, ideal for those seeking tranquility. It’s also one of the best places on the island to enjoy fresh seafood.

Papafragas Caves: Narrow passages and a hidden beach await adventurous spirits. It may feel a bit daring, but it’s absolutely worth the visit.

Firiplaka Beach: Surrounded by colorful cliffs, this long sandy beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Tsigrado Beach: A little adventure is required to reach this hidden paradise you descend using ropes. It may seem challenging, but once you arrive, it’s more than rewarding.

Ancient Theater: Dating back to the Roman era, this theater impresses both with its history and its spectacular sea view.

Best Beaches in Milos Island

• Sarakiniko - Milos' most iconic beach, resembling a lunar surface. Visit at different times to witness the changing light
• Tsigrado - Meaning "hidden" beach, going down is truly an adventure, but it's beautiful once you reach the bottom. Arrive early as it quickly fills up due to its small size.
• Firiplaka - Probably the most "traditional" beach on the island, yet still breathtaking. It has rental loungers or you can simply lay your towel on the sand.
• Paleochori - Featuring beautiful red and yellow hues on limestone cliffs and stunning blue tones in the water. 

Things to Do in Milos Island

• Watch the sunset at Sarakiniko. Sit on the pure white rocks resembling the moon's surface and watch the sky turn red.
• Take a boat tour to Kleftiko. Swim in this magical cove where pirates once hid and explore the caves.
• Take photos in Klima Village. Pose in front of the colorful houses and enjoy the tranquility by the sea in the evening.
• Wander the narrow streets of Plaka. Get lost among the stone paths, then relax with a cool drink at a café to unwind from the day.
• Explore the Milos Catacombs. Feel the traces of the past in the silence of this underground historical treasure.
• Eat fish in Pollonia. Treat yourself to fresh seafood at the fishermen's restaurants on the quiet shore.
• Descend into the Papafragas Caves. Pass through narrow passages to find the hidden beach and bring out your adventurous side.
• Swim at Firiplaka Beach. Swim and sunbathe on the long sandy beach surrounded by colorful rocks.
• Rope down to Tsigrado Beach. After a little adventure, you'll reach a hidden paradise that will enchant you.
• Sit back and enjoy the view at the Ancient Theater. Witness both history and the blue of the Aegean Sea in this structure dating back to Roman times.

Dining on Milos Island

1. O Hamos Taverna: A tavern focusing on traditional Greek cuisine, offering seafood and local flavors.
2. Medusa Restaurant: This beachfront restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and Greek specialties.
3. Ergina’s: With a fantastic sea view, this restaurant is known for dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.
4. Plaka's Avli: A cozy taverna tucked away among stone streets. The shrimp saganaki is a must-try here.
5. Klima's Astakas: Fresh seafood right by the sea, perfect for watching the sunset. The octopus and sardines are especially delicious here.
6. Tripiti's Barriello: Ideal for a slightly more elegant dinner. One of the island's most special restaurants, both for its service and its unique flavors.
7. Medusa in Mandrakia: A small, friendly restaurant by the sea. Enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves.
8. Enalion and Nama in Pollonia: At these restaurants lined up along the coast, you can try different flavors, including fish and sea urchin. Eating with your feet in the sand and the smell of the sea in your nose is truly delightful.
9. O! Hamos! in Adamas: Famous for its local cuisine. It is particularly memorable for its homemade cheeses and honey desserts.
10. Sirocco in Paleochori: A very different experience where you can eat right on the beach, even in the sand.

Milos Accommodation Recommendations

1. Glarakia Studios: Glarakia, built in the Cycladic style, is a 20-minute walk from the blue-flag Papikinou Beach in Milos. The traditionally decorated accommodation units feature free Wi-Fi and a balcony overlooking Adamas Bay and the Aegean Sea.
2. Elements of Milos: Elements of Milos is a garden property located in Mytakas, 1.3 km from Mytakas Beach, 2.2 km from Papikinou Beach, and 2.6 km from Sarakiniko Beach. These accommodation units feature a balcony and a swimming pool overlooking the inner courtyard.

Glarakia Studios

For more accommodation suggestions, check out our Milos Island Hotels page.

 Frequently Asked Questions About Milos

1. How Many Days Should You Stay in Milos?

Milos can be easily explored in 2-3 days. This time is enough to visit the beautiful beaches, historical sites, and enjoy the island’s unique natural beauty. If you have more time, you can explore deeper.

2. Do You Need a Car in Milos?

Milos is a relatively large island, so renting a car is quite useful for visiting certain areas. To reach beaches and more remote villages, a car is necessary. However, some parts of the island can also be easily explored on foot.

3. Where Can You Rent a Car in Milos?

Car rental offices are commonly found in Plaka, the island’s capital, and Adamas, the port area. You can also rent a car at the port.

4. Is There Public Transport in Milos?

Yes, Milos has public transportation services. Buses run regularly between the main settlements on the island. However, public transport may be limited, and renting a car is often more practical for visiting distant areas.

5. What Is Milos Famous For?

Milos is famous for its white rocky landscapes, stunning beaches, swimming opportunities in the crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and natural beauty. It is also the island where the famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered. The sea caves and the traditional villages of Plaka are also noteworthy.

6. Which Greek Islands Can You Visit from Milos?

From Milos, you can take ferries to nearby islands such as Kimolos, Sifnos, Folegandros, and Paros. During the summer months, ferry services are frequent between these islands.

7. When Is the Best Time to Visit Milos?

The best time to visit Milos is between May and October. While the summer months may be crowded, spring and autumn offer a quieter experience. In winter, some tourist facilities may be closed.

8. How Much is the Visa for Milos at the Border?

Turkish citizens need a Schengen visa to travel to Milos. Since Milos is part of Greece, there is no visa on arrival. The Schengen visa fee usually ranges from 70-80 €.

9. How Long Does It Take to Travel from Kuşadası to Milos?

The ferry journey from Kuşadası to Milos takes about 4-5 hours. You may first need to take a ferry to Çeşme or Piraeus and then continue to Milos. The duration may vary depending on the ferry route.

10. Are There Car Ferries to Milos?

Yes, there are car ferries to Milos. Ferries from Çeşme and Piraeus allow vehicles to travel to the island.

11. What Language Is Spoken in Milos?

The official language in Milos is Greek. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, so language barriers are generally not an issue.

12. Is Milos a Beautiful Island?

Yes, Milos is an incredibly beautiful island with its stunning beaches, natural rock formations, fascinating caves, and breathtaking sea views. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an attractive destination.

13. Are There Mosques in Milos?

Milos, as part of Greece, is predominantly associated with Christianity. However, there is a mosque from the Ottoman period. While the mosque is no longer in use, it reflects the island's historical cultural diversity.

14. Do You Need a Visa for Milos?

Yes, Turkish citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Milos. Since Greece is part of the Schengen Area, you need a valid Schengen visa to enter the island.

15. Can You Visit Milos in Winter?

Visiting Milos in winter is possible, but the tourist season is not as intense as during the summer months. The atmosphere is quieter, but some hotels and restaurants may be closed.

16. What Do You Need to Go to Milos?

To travel to Milos, you will need a passport, a Schengen visa, a ferry ticket, and your ID. It is also recommended to make accommodation reservations in advance.

17. How Much Is the Hotel Tax Per Night in Milos?

Hotel taxes in Milos vary according to the hotel’s star rating. Typically, the rates are as follows:

• 1-2 star hotels: 0.50 € per night
• 3-star hotels: 1.50 € per night
• 4-star hotels: 3 € per night
• 5-star hotels: 4 € per night