The Ultimate Milos Travel Guide for First-Timers

Are you planning to visit Milos for the first time but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, this Milos travel guide is here to help you out!

Located in the Aegean Sea, Milos is part of the Cyclades island group and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. And it’s no wonder why – the island is absolutely stunning, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and quaint villages.

If you’re planning a trip to Milos, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip. This Milos travel guide was specifically put together with first-time visitors in mind and it includes all the essential information you need to know, from how to get around the island to where to stay and what to eat.

Let’s get into it!

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The Ultimate Milos Travel Guide for First Timers

Milos Travel Guide: Useful Info for Your First Visit

Where is Milos located?

Milos is located in the Aegean Sea, about 150 km (95 miles) from Athens. It’s part of the Cyclades island group, which includes other popular Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos.

How big is Milos, Greece?

The island has a total area of 151 km2 (58 sq mi) and a coastline of 117 km (73 miles).

This might sound big but in reality, the western half of the island is considered a protected area and therefore it’s uninhabited. The roads are in very bad condition so it’s only possible to visit them with a 4×4 but honestly, apart from a few stunning and deserted beaches, there’s not much to see there.

The eastern side of Milos is where all the action takes place and it’s here where you’ll find the island’s main towns, villages, and beaches.

Rock formations at Kleftiko, Milos — Rock formations at Kleftiko

What is Milos known for?

Milos is famous for its volcanic landscapes, deep blue waters, and cute fishing villages. Apart from that, the island is best known for the world-famous Venus de Milo, which was found on the island in 1820 and is now on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

How many days to spend in Milos?

Ideally, you should spend at least 3 days in Milos to have enough time to explore the island. This gives you enough time to visit the main towns and villages, go for a swim at some of the best beaches, and take a boat ride along the shores.

Of course, if you have more time, you can easily spend 4-5 days on the island as well. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and won’t have to rush from one place to another.

Girl at Church of Saint Nicholas in Pollonia, Milos — Church of Saint Nicholas in Pollonia

What currency is used in Milos?

In Milos, as in the rest of Greece, the currency is the Euro (€).

Credit cards are widely accepted on the island but make sure you have some cash with you as well, especially if you’re planning to visit any of the smaller villages.

Do I need a visa to visit Milos?

If you’re a citizen of the European Union, all you need to visit Milos is a valid passport or ID card.

Tourists from the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can stay in Greece for up to 90 days without a visa.

For citizens of other countries, please check the visa requirements for Greece.

Is Milos safe?

Yes, Milos is a very safe island. There’s very little crime and you can walk around alone at night without any problem.

Of course, as with any other place, it’s always best to take some basic safety precautions and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos — The famous moon-like landscape at Sarakiniko Beach

How to Get to Milos

Flying to Milos

The most convenient way to get to Milos is by flying. The island has its own airport, located about 10 km (6.2 miles) from the capital of Plaka.

However, since this is a domestic airport, there are only a few flights per day and the selection is quite limited.

At the moment, there are only two airlines operating a direct flight to Milos from Athens: Olympic Air and Sky Express. The flight from Athens takes about 40 minutes.

If you’re coming from another city or country, you’ll first have to fly to Athens and then take a connecting flight to Milos.

In case you’re flying back to Athens from Milos, you’ll be pleased to hear that you don’t need to get to the airport 3 hours before your flight. Due to the airport’s small size, if you arrive 1 hour before your flight departs, it will be more than enough.

Check Flight Deals to Milos

How to get to Milos from the airport

The easiest and quickest way to get from Milos airport to your hotel is by taking a taxi. Depending on where you’re going to stay, it will take around 10-20 minutes to get to your destination and you can expect to pay between €15-30.

Another option is to rent a car at the airport, which I would strongly recommend. This way you’ll have the freedom to explore Milos at your own pace and won’t have to rely on public transportation (more about this later).

Your last option is to use the public bus. There is one bus route between Adamas and the airport but since buses don’t depart that frequently, I wouldn’t recommend this option. You can check the bus timetable here.

Typical Greek streets in Plaka, Milos — Typical Greek streets in Plaka

Taking the ferry to Milos

If you’re already in Greece and would like to take the ferry to Milos, there are several companies operating ferries to the island.

The main port on Milos is located in Adamas, from where you can easily get to any other town or village on Milos by public bus, rental car, or taxi.

You’ll find daily ferries departing from Athens, as well as from the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Ios.

The ferry ride from Athens to Milos takes about 3.5 hours and costs around €75, while the journey from Santorini is slightly shorter at 2 hours and costs around €85.

Depending on which island you’re coming from, there are different companies operating the ferry route but the most popular one is Seajets.

You can check the latest ferry schedules and fares in the below search box.

Best time to visit Milos

High season

The high season on Milos runs from mid-June until the end of August. This is when the weather is at its best, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F).

However, since this is also the busiest time of year, you can expect higher prices for accommodation and activities.

If you’re planning to visit Milos during the high season, I would recommend booking your accommodation and activities in advance.

Shoulder season

May and September are considered the shoulder season on Milos. The weather is still very good at this time of year but it’s not as hot as in the summer months.

This is a great time to visit Milos if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, lower prices, and fewer tourists. If you want to swim in the sea, the water is the warmest in September but it might be still a bit too cold in May.

If you visit at the very beginning of May, some of the restaurants will still be closed but most of them should be open by the end of the month.

Church of Panagia Korfiatissa in Plaka, Milos — Typical white churches in Plaka (first photo) and in Klima (second photo)

Girl in blue dress in front of a white church in Klima, Milos — Typical white churches in Plaka (first photo) and in Klima (second photo)

Low season

The low season on Milos runs from October until the end of April. Although the weather is still mild, you can expect many rainy and windy days.

This is also the quietest time of year, with most of the restaurants and bars being closed. Ferries still operate during these months but the schedule is more limited which means it’s significantly harder to get to Milos.

I would only recommend visiting Milos during the low season if you’re looking for a very quiet and relaxed experience. Otherwise, I would say go for the shoulder season!

How to Get Around in Milos

Public transport

There is a public bus service on Milos with the central bus terminal located in Adamas. The bus network covers the entire island and you can use it to get to almost any town or village.

The most popular tourist destinations, such as Sarakiniko Beach and Pollonia, are served by multiple buses per day. However, if you want to go off the beaten path, keep in mind that bus schedules can be very limited.

The fare is €1.80 per person and it’s best to have the exact amount ready. You can buy your ticket from the driver when you get on the bus.

Buses run on different timetables depending on the season so make sure to check the bus schedule in advance.

Plaka, Milos — View of Plaka from the Venetian Castle

Car Rental

If you want to explore Milos at your own pace, renting a car is the best option. This way, you’ll be able to visit all the remote beaches and villages that are not accessible by public transport.

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 car to be delivered to the airport in case you’re arriving by plane.

If you’re planning to rent a car on Milos, I would recommend doing it in advance to make sure you get the best rate.

As I mentioned before, the western part of the island has unpaved dirt roads so it’s off-limits to regular cars. However, there are a few companies that rent out 4×4 vehicles if you’re interested in exploring this part of Milos.

Check Rental car deals in milos

Taxis

If you don’t want to drive, taking a taxi is another option. Since Milos is a pretty small island, you’ll only find around 15 taxis on the island.

You’ll find the taxi rank in Adamas so if you’re staying there and you only want to travel to one or two places a day, taking a taxi can be a good option. You can also arrange for a taxi in advance to pick you up at a specific time after you’ve done your activity for the day.

The most recent prices will be displayed on the windows of the taxis but a ride from Adamas to Pollonia should cost around €20.

For more information about taxis on Milos, check out their official website.

Where to Stay on Milos

There are several great places to stay on Milos, depending on your preferences and budget. Generally speaking, the most popular towns are Adamas, Plaka, and Pollonia but there are also some great hotels in more remote areas.

Adamas is one of the best places to stay on Milos if you want to be close to the main port, as well as to some of the best restaurants and bars on the island.

If you’re looking for a more traditional Greek experience, Plaka is the perfect place for you. This is the oldest and most picturesque village on Milos, located only a 10-minute drive from Adamas.

Pollonia is a great choice for those who want to be close to the beach. This village is located on the northeastern side of Milos and it’s also close to some of the most famous attractions such as Sarakiniko Beach and Papafragas Caves.

If you want to know more about each area with pros and cons and hotel recommendations, make sure to check out my in-depth article about where to stay in Milos.

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!

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for different budgets.

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!

CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

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!

CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

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.

CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

Best Places to Visit in Milos

There are so many great places to visit on Milos that it can be hard to decide where to go.

To help you plan your trip, as part of this Milos travel guide I’ve put together a list of the best places on the island that you absolutely can’t miss!

Sarakiniko Beach – One of the most famous beaches on Milos, Sarakiniko is a must-visit. This beach is known for its white cliffs and turquoise waters. You will feel like you’ve just landed on the moon!

Plaka – The oldest village on Milos, Plaka is a great place to wander around and soak up the traditional Greek atmosphere. Make sure to visit the Venetian Castle for sunset and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants with panoramic views.

Girl at a church at the Venetian Castle in Plaka, Milos

Girl in front of the Blue and white houses in Plaka, Milos

Kleftiko – Located in the southwest corner of the island, the gorgeous rock formations at Kleftiko are a must-visit on every Milos itinerary. Although the area can only be visited on a boat tour, it’s well worth the effort!

Papafragas Caves – One of the most popular places to visit on Milos, the Papafragas Caves are located on the north coast of the island. This is a great spot for swimming and enjoying the incredible views.

Mandrakia – Mandrakia is one of the cutest fishing villages on the island. It’s a great place to visit if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy the scenic views. Stop for a lunch at Medusa while you’re there!

Firopotamos – Another unmissable fishing village on Milos, Firopotamos is located on the northeast coast of the island. This is a great place to relax by the sea and enjoy the tranquility of the village.

Girl in white dress in Firopotamos, Milos

Catacombs of Milos – The catacombs of Milos are one of the most unique places to visit on the island. These ancient burial chambers are located in Plaka, close to the Ancient Theater so you can visit both places in one go.

Ancient Theater of Milos – The ancient theater of Milos is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. This is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning about the history of Milos.

Pollonia – Pollonia is one of the best places to stay on Milos but it’s also worth visiting for the day. This village is located on the northeast coast of the island and it’s a great place to relax by the sea. Make sure to try the fresh fish at one of the restaurants!

Tsigrado Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches on Milos, Tsigrado is a must-visit. This beach is only accessible by boat or by climbing down a ladder so it’s definitely not for everyone but the views are totally worth it!

Fyriplaka Beach – If you’re after something easier, make sure to stop by Fyriplaka Beach. It’s located right next to Tsigrado but it’s a lot easier to get to.

Best Places to Eat in Milos

As well as being home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Milos is also a foodie paradise. There are so many great places to eat on the island, from traditional Greek tavernas to chic beachfront restaurants.

To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together a list of the best places to eat on Milos.

Sirocco – Located in Paleochori Beach, this all-day volcanic restaurant is one of the best places to have dinner in Milos. During the summer months, they use the area’s geothermal energy to cook some of the dishes which makes it super unique.

Girl at Sirocco in Paleochori Beach, Milos — Light dinner at Sirocco

Medusa – Known for its delicious seafood selection, Medusa is a great lunch spot while you’re exploring Mandrakia. The views of the village and the sea are absolutely incredible.

Nostos Seafood Experience – One of the best seafood restaurants on Milos, Nostos offers an incredible dining experience. The restaurant is located in Adamas and it has a beautiful terrace with views of the sea.

Dinner at Nostos Seafood Experience in Milos — If you love seafood, you have to visit Nostos Seafood Experience!

Dinner at Nostos Seafood Experience, one of the best restaurants in Milos, Greece — If you love seafood, you have to visit Nostos Seafood Experience!

O! Hamos! Tavern – A traditional Greek taverna located close to Adamas, O! Hamos! is one of the best places to try the local cuisine. Make sure to try the Greek salad and the grilled lamb.

Gyros of Milos – One of the most popular places to eat on Milos, Gyros of Milos is a great spot for a quick and delicious lunch. The restaurant is located in Adamas and it specializes in, you guessed it, gyros!

Kokkino – Hands down one of the best breakfast places on the island! Located in the heart of Plaka, Kokkino offers a range of healthy breakfast options as well as some amazing coffees.