11 AMAZING Things To Do In Milos, Greece (& How To Get There)

Looking for the best things to do in Milos? Well, look no further. 

In recent years, Milos, one of the most beautiful Greek islands, has become incredibly popular for very good reason. Milos which is part of the Cyclades Islands is home to some diverse landscapes unlike any other that you see in Greece because the island has been shaped by volcanic activity over 4 million years. 

With towering cliffs, hidden coves, charming fishing villages, and some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen, Milos has something for everyone. If that wasn’t enough, Milos is also a foodie paradise, specialising in traditional Greek dishes and abundant with fresh seafood. 

The moment I arrived, I fell in love instantly and knew I’d want to return and it is now officially my favourite Greek Island. The unique views, crystal-clear waters and of course the incredible food make it very difficult not to like this place.

I’ve got a sneaky suspicion it’s set to rival Santorini’s popularity, so I’d urge you to get over to Milos sooner rather than later.

So, what are the best things to do in Milos? Read on below to find out! 

Uncover Sarakiniko Beach

If there’s one place in Milos you absolutely cannot miss it’s Sarakiniko Beach, which is 10x more beautiful in person than it looks in any photo you have seen. Before I’d visited I had seen so many pictures of this unique landscape but nothing prepared me for what it was going to be like in real life. It actually felt like walking on the moon with its stunning smooth white cliffs with the Aegean Sea stretching out in front.

Sarakiniko is often referred to as the “Moonscape” and after you visit you’ll really understand why.

Sarakiniko isn’t just about the views it’s one of the best places in Milos to explore, swim and if you’re feeling fearless; cliff jump (which, full disclosure I totally chickened out of).

If you are into snorkelling then there is a shipwreck just off the shore which means you can enjoy a little underwater adventure while you’re here. You can also check out the abandoned mining tunnels that are carved out into the rocks.

The one thing you should know about Sarakiniko is that it’s not your typical beach. There is a small part of sand but for the most part, you will have to lay over the rocks thankfully this isn’t as uncomfortable as it sounds, as long as you have a good beach towel!

Also, it’s important to mention that there are no beach bars located here, although there is a small food truck located in the car park. Make sure you come prepared with lots of water, snacks and suncream.

I personally think Sarakiniko is best visited early morning, or just before sunset as there are fewer crowds and the heat won’t be as intense. If you are into photography these are also really good times of day to visit to get some great lighting over the landscape.

Sarakiniko is definitely worth the hype and it’s one of the best beaches I have visited in my life. So if you do just one thing in Milos, make sure it’s this.

Climb down to Tsigrado Beach

If you are looking for unique things to do in Milos you will love this! If, like me, you love secluded beaches then you will love Tsigrado Beach. Tucked away behind Milos’ dramatic cliffs this is one of the most beautiful and adventurous beaches on the island.

Getting down to Tsigrado is a bit of a mission, but one that pays off in the end. To get to the beach you will have to navigate a steep and rocky descent, use ropes to lower yourself down and finally climb a wooden ladder onto the sand.

When we visited Tsigrado we headed down in the morning and I think this is a really good thing for you to do as well. It means you won’t have to wait in a long queue of other tourists looking to climb down the ladder as this is another one of the most popular beaches on the island (the unique way of getting to this beach has gone viral on social media).

There are no facilities on this beach so make sure you come prepared with lots of water, sunscreen and food if you planning on being there for a long time.

If the idea of climbing down isn’t for you, don’t worry! You can still get the chance to explore this beach by booking a boat tour around the area. Just make sure that you double-check the itinerary to ensure you actually stop here.

TSIGRADO KAYAK TOUR AT A GLANCE
⭐STAR RATING: 4.9/5
💰PRICE: €60
⏰DURATION: 3.5 HOURS
✅INCLUDES: KAYAK, UNDERWATER CAMERA
🧡IDEAL FOR: EVERYONE

BOOK HERE

Have cocktails by the sea at Fyriplaka Beach

Fyriplaka is the bigger, more relaxed (and dare I say it) even better sibling of Tsigrado Beach. This beach is super unique, and the first thing you’ll notice is the long stretch of sand that’s surrounded by bright red volcanic rock. Then you’ll immediately be in awe of just how clear and blue the water is here.

As soon as I stepped on this beach I knew that I would be spending the whole day here. What is great about this beach, is that unlike some of the other beaches in Milos, it is super accessible (which is perfect for those of us who don’t fancy hiking to get to the beach).

On the beach, you’ll find a beautiful boho beach bar that also provides sunbeds for guests to use. When it comes to food and drink they serve all the usual options but I really recommend trying their strawberry slushies which are so refreshing in that hot Greek sunshine.

Paleochori Beach

Paleochori is one of Milos’ most breathtaking beaches, tucked away on the island’s south coast. 

Much like Fyriplaka, what makes this beach stand out the most is its vibrant red and orange volcanic cliffs, which create a stunning contrast against the turquoise sea. 

At the beach, you can find a few amazing restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for an awesome lunch or dinner you can enjoy a meal at Sirocco Volcanic All-Day Restaurant which is one of the most unique dining spots on the island. The food here is cooked using the natural heat from the volcanic sand, which I think is so cool.

You also have the option to head over to Aqua Loca Beach Bar Milos which is known for its fun beach bar vibes during the peak season. 

Whether you’re here to relax, explore, enjoy a one-of-a-kind meal, or drink copious amounts of cocktails  Paleochori Beach is a must-visit in Milos.

Watch the sun go down at Utopia bar  

One of the most memorable sunsets I have ever seen has to be from this beautiful bar located in Milos’ capital, Plaka. Utopia is one of the most popular bars in Milos because of its prime sunset viewing spot.

This bar offers unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding mountains which means it’s one of the best places on the island to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Whilst I wouldn’t say this is the best place for dinner, it’s definitely a great place to come for pre-dinner drinks and snacks. Make sure to arrive early, as this spot is incredibly popular, and the front-row seats fill up fast.

Explore The Historic Sites Of Trypiti Village

Tripiti Village was one of those places on Milos that instantly stole my heart. Just a short drive from Plaka (the capital of Milos) this sweet little village is like stepping into a postcard. Here you can find the traditional Greek-style village that we are all so familiar with seeing on social media. Think whitewashed walls, windmills, Cycladic houses and of course breathtaking sea views.

One of the best things about Trypiti is its rich history. Here you can find the impeccably well-preserved Ancient Theatre of Milos which is an open-air marble theatre from the Hellenistic period. 

Not too far from there, you can also find the Catacombs of Milos which I definitely recommend exploring. We learnt that these were an underground burial site that dates back to the 1st-5th centuries. These catacombs rank among the top three most important catacombs globally, sharing the podium with the catacombs of Rome and the Holy Land.

Here you can also find some authentic Greek tavernas serving up fresh seafood and delicious local wines. I recommend heading to Bariello restaurant to enjoy amazing food and even better views.

Go diving through the Kleftiko Caves

No trip to Milos is complete without a boat tour around this island, sailing around the island had to be one of my favourite days in Milos and I would recommend it to anyone who visits. Seeing the Milos from the water gives you a whole new perspective on the island, and you also get to visit new places that are only reachable by boat.

One of the most iconic spots you will visit on a boat trip around Milos is the Kleftico Caves which are towering, powdery white rock formations. During our trip, we have the chance to swim, snorkel and even venture into the caves. We also got to enjoy lunch and drinks on board as well as watch the sunset over Milos from the water. I highly recommend booking this boat tour if you are after the same awesome experience that we got to have.

There are plenty of different boat tour options, from luxury catamarans to private sailing trips. Whether you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a shorter excursion there will definitely be a boat trip to suit what you need.

⭐ THE TOP MILOS BOAT TOUR ⭐

MILOS BOAT TRIP AT A GLANCE
⭐STAR RATING: 4.9/5
💰PRICE: €110
⏰DURATION: 10 HOURS
✅INCLUDES: LUNCH, WINE, SOFT DRINKS & SNORKEL GEAR
🧡IDEAL FOR: EVERYONE

BOOK HERE

Visit the cute fishing villages on the island

Milos of filled with traditional Greek villages but there is a small handful that particularly stole my heart. With their colourful boathouses and breathtaking bays, these three villages I’ve mentioned below are absolute must-visits on the island.

Mandrakia 

Madrakia was one of my favourite spots to stop for lunch. It is home to one of the most iconic restaurants in Milos known as Medusa which serves up some of the best seafood on the island. It’s whitewashed houses and bright blue doors give you that classic Greek village vibe.

Fyropotamos

Fyropotamos will be a dream for those of you who want to enjoy a dip during your trip to the villages.
Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach, this little village is the perfect spot to spend a few hours.

Klima

Klima is the best place in Milos to see the famous colourful boathouses that Milos is known for.
These rainbow houses were once used by fishermen to store their boats but now they are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Milos.

We actually got to sail past Klima on our boat tour of Milos and it was incredible to see it shining in a golden sunset glow!

Exploring these villages was one of my favourite things to do in Milos and I’d say it’s one of the best ways to get a feel for the island.

Papafragas Cave

Papafragas Cave is one of the island’s best natural wonders. This is a huge sea cave that has been carved right into the cliffs. This cave overlooks the beautiful Papafragas Beach and the scenery here is truly jaw-dropping.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your way down to Papafragas Beach, but the path is steep and a bit tricky, so it’s not for everyone. 

Explore Plaka town centre

Plaka is one of Milos’ most beautiful towns and is also the island’s capital. The streets are full of history, charm and traditional fuchsia-coloured flowers. Though Plaka is small there is still lots to explore here like browsing the local shops where you will find handmade jewellery, ceramics and souvenirs.

If you are up for a short hike you can also visit Plaka Castle where you’ll be treated to gorgeous panoramic views of Milos and its surrounding islands.

Of course, no visit to Plaka is complete without enjoying some of the local bars, restaurants and cafes here.

How to get to Milos

There are two main ways to reach Milos, by ferry or plane. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on your travel style and schedule.

Ferry

Ferries are one of the most popular ways to travel between Greek islands, and Milos is well-connected to Athens, Paros, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos. You can take a direct ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens or hop between the Cycladic islands.

To make ferry travel easy and stress-free, use Ferry Hopper, where you can compare schedules, and prices, and book your tickets in advance.

Example journeys and prices: 

Plane

You can hop on a quick 40-minute flight from Athens airport to Milos, with one-way prices starting at just €50, although prices will fluctuate depending on the season.

Keep in mind that the planes used for this route are quite small and are often propeller-style planes, so if you’re not a fan of flying, this might not be the most suitable option for you.

Car Rental 

To make the most of your time in Milos and explore its stunning beaches and hidden gems, I highly recommend renting a car. 

Public transport is limited, and while there are taxis available these are very expensive so having your own car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and is also the most economical option.

Car rentals in Milos are affordable, with prices starting at around €40 per day. The roads are generally well-maintained which makes driving around the island fairly easy.

However, if you’re planning to explore the more rugged western side, keep in mind that some areas have dirt and gravel roads. Rental companies will advise you on which areas to avoid, as many standard rental cars are not insured for off-road driving.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to venture off the beaten path I would consider renting a 4×4 or an ATV. 

Alternative Travel 

If renting a car or ATV isn’t an option, no worries! Milos has a bus service that connects the main towns, beaches, and popular sights. It’s an affordable and convenient option, especially if you’re staying near Plaka, Adamas, or Pollonia. Bus schedules vary by season, so be sure to check the routes and timetables in advance to plan your day.

There are a couple of taxi services on the island too, but keep in mind they might be extremely busy, especially during high season and you could find yourself waiting a long time to get picked up. Find out more by clicking here.

Where to Stay in Milos

Milos offers a plethora of charming towns and villages, making it a bit challenging to decide where to stay. To help you out, here’s a curated list of the best spots:

Adamas

As the largest village and main port town, Adamas is a buzzing spot. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of options when it comes to bars and restaurants. The best places to stay in Adamas include:

• Santa Maria Village Resort & Spa
• Olea Bay Hotel

Pollonia

Nestled in a picturesque fishing village, Pollonia has a laid-back vibe. With a small strip of bars and restaurants, it’s perfect if you’re after a relaxing atmosphere. The best places to stay in Pollonia include:

• Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel
• Delmar Apartments & Suites

Plaka

Plaka (the capital of Milos) is ideal for those craving nightlife and a vibrant ambience. Positioned at the highest point on the island, you’ll also enjoy breathtaking landscape views. The best places to stay in Plaka include:

• Plaka Suites
• Studios Betty

Klima

This stunning little fishing village is perfect for couples wanting a secluded escape. Despite its small size, Klima offers spectacular sunsets for a romantic touch. The best places to stay in Klima include:

• The White Coral
• Noma Milos

Fyropotomos

Another quaint fishing village, Fyropotomos boasts some of the clearest waters in Milos. If you’re seeking complete peace, this quiet spot is an excellent choice. The best places to stay in Fyropotomos include:

• Vilos Suites Fyropotamos Beach
• Milinon Suites

When is the best time to visit Milos?

The best time to visit Milos is between May and October when the island enjoys warm, sunny weather. During these months, temperatures average around 28°C (82°F).

If you want to avoid the peak summer crowds, I would recommend visiting in May, September and October (the shoulder season). These months offer the same stunning landscapes and warm weather but with fewer tourists and more affordable accommodation options.

How many days in Milos is enough?

If you’re wondering how long to stay in Milos, I’d say 3 to 5 days is perfect. 3 days give you enough time to hit the must-see spots like Sarakiniko, Kleftiko, and Plaka, plus squeeze in a boat tour. 4-5 days let you slow down, discover more beaches and try more local restaurants.

Is Milos a party island?

If you are looking for wild parties and clubbing then Milos probably isn’t the island for you. Milos has a more laidback vibe and it’s definitely more about enjoying nature here than anything else. That being said if you are after chilled-out cocktail bars and live music then you’ll find plenty of things to do in Milos.

If you are after an island that has more of a party scene then I recommend visiting Mykonos or Paros.

🛏️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget then make sure to check out Hostelworld.

✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!

🚆Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.

🚗Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.

🎟️Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100’s of activities whilst travelling.

🦋Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.

📱Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download sims from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.