Without a doubt, Milos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands. Although it may not be the most popular, it should definitely make a cut to your bucket-list. Explore my complete travel guide to Milos to find out why!
If you have not seen the unreal moonscapes of Sarakiniko Beach, you should definitely google the place now.
Why is Milos worth visiting? Except its chilled Mediterranean vibe, Milos is relatively crowds-free and offers some of the most beautiful views you can ever experience. The stunning boutique hotels, fresh seafood, dreamiest sunsets and white-washed picturesque villages are only a few reasons to stop here on your island-hopping trip around Greece.
How to plan your trip to Milos?
The perfect stay in Milos is 3 to 5 days. The island is relatively small and you can see all the best spots within a few days only. The best way to explore Milos is renting a car or ATV as it will be your cheapest and most convenient option. There is a limited number of taxis on the island and for this reason- they are very expensive. If you do not have a hotel transportation, some providers will take a huge advantage of that and will quote you a small fortune for a short taxi ride. There is a car rental directly at the airport, but it is also worth checking with your hotel’s management whether they have cars to rent at their disposal.
The best time to visit Milos is late April until October. The border months are usually quiter, but the weather is still perfect to fully enjoy the best of Milos! If you’re planning your trip for October, you need to keep in mind that the winds are getting stronger on the South side of the island, which may make southern beaches less accessible.
Although only domestic flights reach Milos Airport (MLO), the flight from Athens is only 20 minutes and is usually very affordable. Alternatively, there are daily ferries operating from Athens and the journey takes up to 5 hours.
Where to stay in Milos?
The accommodation options in Milos are a mixture of boho-chic boutique hotels, resorts and unique AirBnBs. Depending on your personal preferences, these handpicked hotels will meet your expectations of a dream Greek getaway.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that there are not many hotels on the island and the best ones get booked very quickly.
Best accommodation options in Milos:
- Asterias Boutique Hotel Affordable family-run property close to Sarakiniko and Papafragas.
- Melian Boutique Hotel and Spa Elegant waterfront accommodation located near to lively Pollonia village.
- Aloni Cave House Unique stand-out design, convenient location, relaxed atmosphere.
- Del Mar Apartments Stylish and cosy apartments located in the heart of Pollonia.
- Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel Stylish suites and swimming pool overlooking the ocean.
- Sirma Klima Simple and traditional beach house locates in one of the best island’s sunset spots- Klima
- Captain Zeppos Beautiful beach apartments located just by the seaside
- COVE Something for resort lovers. Despite difficult access, this hotel is great for a luxury, undisturbed stay in a remote location.
What to see in Milos?
PAPAFRAGAS BEACH
Just a 5-minute drive from Pollonia there is Papafragas beach- a complex of coves, beaches and rock formations amongst which you can relax and soak up the sun. Despite its dramatic look, Papafragas beach is perfect for swimming as the waters are calm and the scenery is truly unique. Papafragas is snugly hidden between the cliffs, but make sure you step outside and take a walk around- this area is full of hidden coves and beautiful lagoons.
SARAKINIKO BEACH
Further West of Papafragas you must pull over to see the most spectacular place on the island- Sarakiniko Beach. This bone-white beach has been shaped by strong North winds and its unreal landscape is often compared to a moonscape. The volcanic rocks of Sarakiniko are some of the most photographed Greek landscapes.
When in Milos, you should visit Sarakiniko during different times of the day:
-Early morning to watch the Sun rising above the rocks.
-Midday to swim in the most beautiful turquoise water.
-Sunset time for the pink haze and dreamy sun flares reflecting in the lagoon.
Each part of the day will give you an entirely new experience. Personall, I would spend every sunset in Sarakiniko! This is when the beach is relatively empty, the Sun is soft and the sky changes colours from orange to dreamy pink tones. Sunset is also the best time to take dreamy photos when visiting the beach.
Sarakiniko is perfect for photographers, adrenaline junkies who jump from the tall cliffs, but also for those who want to relax being surrounded by some of the most exquisite views.
There are two main locations within Sarakiniko- The cliffs and the strip.
Do not be mistaken when looking at the images of people jumping from Sarakiniko cliffs- it really takes a brave person to jump! The cliffs are much higher than they appear on the images, so if you are not sure of your diving skills- better choose to swim in the strip.
MANDRAKIA
Mandrakia is a small, charming fishing village and is a perfect lunch spot while exploring the island. Although there are not many restaurants in this area, there is one, which appears to be one of the best on the island- Medusa.
Head to Medusa for food and take a wander around the picturesque bays of Mandrakia. The views, waves crashing on the rocks and romantic beach houses are definitely worth a quick stop.
FIROPOTAMOS
This hidden gem is one of my favourites in Milos. Although the journey to get here is one scenic adventure itself- Firopotamos is a place like no other. When driving down the hill, you are welcomed by the most stunning pebble beach and water reflecting all the shades of blue. If you walk further down, there is a picturesque bay lined with colourful beach houses, boats and the most beautiful lagoon. This place is perfect for snorkeling, cliff jumping and relaxing as it’s a little bit off the road and often missed by tourists.
KLIMA
Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations- right? Klima is another incredible spot to add to your road trip list. It’s a perfect place to be visited during the day, but also magical at sunset. Some of the colorful houses are available for rentals, and some are inhabited by locals. Staying in this picturesque village for a night is definitely a bucket list thing!
MILOS SOUTHERN BEACHES
Southern coast of Milos is home to stretched white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters.
- Tsigrado Beach: Secluded and picturesque beach nestle between high cliffs, coves and rocks. The access to the beach is only via a wobbly ladder, but trust me- the hike is totally worth it!
- Firiplaka Beach: Pink-coloured cliffs, long strip of white-sand beach, and beautiful turquoise waters.
- Paliochori Beach: One of the most colourful beaches on Milos with taverns, bars, sun-beds and surrounding lagoon.
KLEFTIKO CAVES
If you’re up for a great boat adventure in Milos, book a trip to Kleftiko Caves!
Located in the South-West coast of Milos, Kleftiko attracts travellers by its unique rock formations, impressive caves and crystal clear waters.
Boat trips to Kleftiko start at $40. The price often includes food and beverages, but the incredibles views come always with every trip package!
WHERE TO EAT IN MILOS?
Moussaka and tzatziki are probably the first things that come to your mind when thinking of Greek cuisine. What is quite surprising about Milos, is that it is rather difficult to find a good moussaka anywhere on the island.
In Milos, traditional Greek recipes are hugely influenced by the tastes from the whole of Europe. However, Milos still keeps a very high standard of seafood and fish and if you’re a fan, you will not be disappointed.
THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN MILOS
Akrotiri Seafood Obsession: located in Pollonia village. Here is where you can find some of the best food on the island.
Medusa- Located in the vicinity of fisherman’s huts in Mandrakia Village, Medusa is a much-loved spot for fresh fish and traditional Milos dishes.
Hanabi– Relatively new restaurant on the island, and most probably the only one serving sushi. Hanabi is located on the waterfront in Pollonia Village and has a great vibe and a stylish decor!
Psaravolada Restaurant– Located near beautiful Aghia’s Kiriaki beach, Psaravolada serves some of the best traditional food on the iNsland.
Astakas Restaurant: Astakas can be found in a wonderful location on the beachfront, among the fishermen’s houses in Klima. It is popular for its fresh fish and the spectacular view over the harbor of Milos (especially during sunset!).
Explore more guides to Greek Islands HERE