Posted by Milos is a western Cycladic island with about 5,000 inhabitants and an area of 150 km². It is one of the larger islands of the Cyclades, but is relatively unknown. Like Santorini, Milos is of volcanic origin. The island has a lot of mining, good beaches and some interesting sights.
Our articles about the island of Milos |
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| Milos overview | Island of Kimolos |
| Adamas Milos | Pollonia Milos |
| Plaka Milos | Beaches Milos Island |
Our opinion: Milos has a fascinating, almost surreal landscape that immediately impresses with its extraordinary rock formations and colorful beaches. The island exudes a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a break away from the hustle and bustle. However, the most popular areas can get quite crowded in high season, which can somewhat spoil the tranquility. Nevertheless, Milos remains a distinctive destination for travelers seeking nature and beauty in its most pristine form.
Milos is often unjustly forgotten by the large numbers of tourists who visit the Cyclades every summer. There are several reasons for this: Firstly, the locals do not really need tourism. For centuries, natural resources have been mined on Milos, bringing prosperity and jobs to Milos even without tourists.
Tip: Our favorite guesthouse on Milos: Malion Rooms
However, the mines are quite remote and therefore hardly disturb the view of holidaymakers. Ores, minerals and crystals such as pumice, sulphur, bentonite, kaolin, pumice tile and perlite are mined.
Milos Island: 2 great tours by boat or busWe have selected the 2 best tours (day trips) on Milos for you, which can be booked online on a well-known website: 1. Great tour by sailing boat around Milos (10 hours, tour including snorkeling and food): More information and booking (best reviews from participants) 2. Bus tour highlights of Milos (8 hours): More information and booking (great tour on an interesting island) |
On the other hand, the island is not that easy to reach: Milos does not have a large airport and is not on the major ferry routes that connect the Cyclades with Athens.
In recent years, tourism has developed significantly. However, there are hardly any package tourists; it is mainly individual tourists who visit the island.
There are three important towns: Adamas, Plaka and Pollonia:
The main town and port (2000 inhabitants) is Adamas. Most tourists stay here: there are many restaurants, taverns, guest houses and hotels and a small but interesting mining museum (3 euros entrance fee in 2017). If you want to explore the whole island, you should base yourself here because of the best bus connections. There is a good campsite 5 km outside of Adamas. A minibus from the campsite is available at the harbour when the ferry arrives during the season. Boat tours from Adamas to the uninhabited island of Antimilos (day trip) are interesting. However, boat tours around the island of Milos itself are much more popular and interesting. These are offered daily by various operators during the season. A round trip with larger boats costs around 20 euros and also includes Kimolos. >>> More information and booking tours on Milos
If you want to see the caves and rock formations up close, you should book a tour with small boats (only a few people) that costs at least twice as much. In Adamas you will find the worthwhile and modern Milos Mining Museum (3 euros entrance fee a few years ago). The beaches of Adamas (left and right of the town) are clean, but are certainly not among the dream beaches of Greece. This is probably one of the reasons why Milos is not very high on the Cyclades’ tourist hit list.
No hotel yet?There are more than a hundred hotels on Milos. In our opinion, the best overview is on Booking.com. Here you can sort the accommodations by price or only display accommodations in a specific location on the island. Hotels can be booked quickly and easily on Booking.com, and there are also many holiday apartments. |
A very good place to stay is Giannis Apartments. The clean rooms and apartments not far from the port of Adamas are inexpensive (e.g. 30 -49 euros in June).
Plaka
Plaka is the old capital, 6 km north of Adamas in the mountains, with a narrow labyrinth of streets and typical Cycladic architecture. Plaka is dominated by a magnificent castle, which can be reached on foot from the town in 10 minutes. From up here you have a magnificent view of Milos, Antimilos, the bay of Adamas and other islands. In my opinion this is the second best viewing point on the Greek islands after Thira (Santorini). In high season buses run from Adamas to Plaka every hour, and in low season about every 2 hours.
Also worth seeing is the ancient Roman town of Tripiti, not far from Plaka (less than 15 minutes on foot). Excavation site with a Roman theatre and catacombs – in the immediate vicinity is the site where the legendary sculpture Venus de Milos was found (signposted).
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Venus of Milos Milos became world famous through a chance archaeological discovery – the Venus of Milo. The most famous ancient Greek work of art from the 1st century BC was discovered by a farmer on Milos in 1820 and is now in the Louvre in Paris. Unfortunately, Aphrodite’s arms were never found. There is only a small multilingual sign at the site where the sculpture was found.
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Pollonia
The place is also called Apollonia, located in the east of Milos, and has developed into a small tourist resort. There are many simple guesthouses here. The disused mines above the town spoil the view somewhat. It is the ferry port for the small ships between Milos and Kimolos. In summer there are about four crossings a day, in spring and autumn two (but one very early in the morning). All ferries have bus connections from Adamas. The beaches in Pollonia are OK, but just like in Adamas, they are probably not dream beaches. A very good and popular place to stay in Apollonia is the Glaronissia Hotel.
Neighbouring island of Kimolos
Kimolos is a small island with about 2-5 ferries a day. The majority of passengers are day trippers. Most ferries do not depart from Adamas, but from Pollonia (which is also cheaper). Almost every day a ferry connects Kimolos with Sifnos, Serifos, Athens and Adamas (Milos). There are also private rooms on Kimolos starting at 35 euros (summer, otherwise cheaper). The huge Kastro (over 100 rooms), which has been and is being partially renovated, is absolutely worth seeing. This imposing castle could actually be one of the main attractions in the Cyclades, but has so far been largely ignored by the large crowds of tourists. There are similarities with the Kastro on Antiparos. From the harbor (a few houses with taverns) you can reach Chora, the main town of Kimolos, in about 30 minutes on foot. A bus has also been running for a few years. Aliki is the most beautiful beach on Kimolos and can also be reached on foot. Kimolos is a good alternative for people who are looking for a very quiet and original island. Unfortunately, Kimolos is not very cheap.
Map of the island of Milos
You can see Milos and its unusual shape. The best way to visit the south of the island is with a rental car.
Connections to and from Milos
Flights to Milos: small airport, 2 times a day from/to Athens. Flights to Milos are often fully booked long in advance. There is no bus to the airport, a taxi to Adamas costs around 10 euros. There are no other flights, such as charter flights from Germany. This means there are only a few package holidaymakers, which makes the island more interesting for individual travellers and island hoppers.
Ferries to Milos. Good connection with Athens, in summer there are at least 2-3 ferries to and from the port of Piraeus. Ferries to the neighbouring islands of Sifnos and Serifos run almost every day. Other islands are not as frequently accessible. Several times a week you can get to the island Paros, the island Sikinos, the island Folegandros and the island Crete. Unfortunately, boat connections to Santorini and the island Ios from Milos are rare. There are several travel agencies at the port that provide information about ferry connections. The small bus station in Milos is about 100 meters to the right of the pier. The tourist information office in Milos is right next to the pier, as are the only public toilets on the Cycladic island.
➔ To book ferries within Greece, we recommend the reputable website Ferryscanner.com
Milos island: 2 great tours by boat or busWe have selected the 2 best tours (day trips) on Milos for you, which can be booked online on a well-known website: 1. Great tour by sailing boat around Milos (10 hours, tour including snorkeling and food): More information and booking (best reviews from participants) 2. Bus tour highlights of Milos (8 hours): More information and booking (great tour on an interesting island) |
Getting around Milos
During the season, the larger towns are connected by buses 6-8 times a day (Plaka, Tripiti and Adamas even hourly). There are also a few buses to the good beaches in the south of the island. There are no bus connections to the almost uninhabited southwest of Milos. However, in Adamas you can rent a car, moped or motorbike if you want to visit the remote parts of Milos. Cycling and hiking are also popular on Milos. A few small boats travel daily from Adamas to remote beaches. For some holidaymakers, geological excursions by bus are also very interesting (ask at the mining museum).
Tip: Our favorite guesthouse on Milos: Malion Rooms
Be careful on Milos
-Before the late start of the season (around May 20th), there are hardly any buses except between Plaka and Adamas, no boat trips and significantly fewer ferries to other islands.
– There are quite poisonous snakes on Milos. The Cycladic snake is only found on a few islands, particularly Milos, Kimolos and Sifnos. However, this snake is quite rare and snake bites are not that common. If you are bitten by a snake on Milos, you should seek medical attention immediately. The viper lives on the whole island and is protected because it is threatened with extinction.
– The supermarkets in Adamas close very early in the evening and all at about the same time (7 p.m.?). Of course, none of the three supermarkets have signs indicating the (surprising) opening times. It is then no longer even possible to buy a few tomatoes or apples in the main town. However, dozens of other (tourist) shops are open until late. As far as I know, this is a unique situation in Greece. You might think that this is intentional to lure hungry holidaymakers into the more expensive tavernas.
Top 10 Milos Sights and Attractions
Sarakiniko Beach: Famous for its moon-like white rock formations and crystal clear waters, Sarakiniko is one of the most photographed spots on the island. The unique volcanic landscape creates an unreal atmosphere that is perfect for sunbathing and cliff jumping.
Kleftiko Caves: Mainly accessible by boat, Kleftiko is made up of a series of sea caves and towering rock formations. Once a hideout for pirates, it now offers stunning spots for snorkeling and exploring the underwater caves.
Catacombs of Milos: Dating back to the early Christian period, these ancient catacombs are among the most significant early Christian monuments in Greece. They offer a glimpse into the history of the island and early Christian communities.
Plaka: The capital of Milos, Plaka, offers narrow streets, charming alleyways and traditional Cycladic architecture. The village is known for its spectacular sunsets, which rival those of Santorini.
Firopotamos Beach: The small fishing village of Firopotamos, with its beautiful bay, is ideal for a quiet day at the beach. It has colourful boathouses and crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkelling.
Pollonia Village: The picturesque fishing village of Pollonia is located on the north-east coast of Milos and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent fish restaurants. It is also the starting point for the ferries to the nearby island of Kimolos.
Papafragas Beach: A small bay surrounded by high cliffs, perfect for swimming in the emerald waters. The natural sea caves around the beach create an intimate atmosphere.
Tsigrado Beach: Accessed via a narrow path and ladder, Tsigrado Beach offers a secluded beach with clear, turquoise waters. It is ideal for those seeking adventure and looking for a more private place to swim.
Venetian Castle of Plaka: This medieval castle sits above the village of Plaka and offers panoramic views over the island and the Aegean Sea. It is a great place for hiking and watching the sunset.
Adamas Port: Milos’ main port, Adamas, is a lively hub with shops, restaurants and cafes. It is an ideal base for exploring the island as many boat tours depart from here.
| Tip: Our favorite guesthouse on Milos: Malion Rooms |
Discover amazing beaches
Milos has over 70 beaches, many of them unique due to the volcanic landscape.
Sarakiniko: A surreal beach with white, moon-like rock formations – perfect for photos.
Kleftiko: A bay with impressive rock formations and caves that can only be reached by boat. Ideal for snorkeling.
Tsigrado: A hidden beach reached via a steep descent – a little adventure.
Firiplaka and Paleochori: Colorful beaches with crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxing.
Boat tour around the island
A boat tour is the best way to discover Milos’ hidden bays and caves such as Kleftiko and Sykia. Many tours offer swimming stops and lunch on board.
Explore Plaka village
Plaka is the charming capital of the island with white houses, narrow streets and small churches.
Visit the church of Panagia Korfiatissa for a spectacular sunset.
Browse the small boutiques and enjoy local dishes in traditional tavernas.
The Venus de Milo and ancient sites
Ancient Theater of Milos: A well-preserved Roman theater overlooking the sea.
Site of the Venus de Milo: The famous statue was found near the theater and is now in the Louvre Museum.
Catacombs of Milos: Early Christian catacombs that provide an insight into the religious history of the island.
Discover villages and fishing villages
Climate: A picturesque fishing village with colorful boathouses right on the water. Ideal for photos and romantic walks.
Mandrakia and Firopotamos: More traditional fishing villages with pretty bays and cozy tavernas.
Snorkeling and diving
The volcanic coast of Milos is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. There are many caves and interesting diving spots, especially around Kleftiko.
Visit Pollonia (Apollonia)
A charming fishing village in the northeast, ideal as a starting point for trips to Kimolos. Here you will find many restaurants right on the water.
Hikes and discover nature
There are numerous hiking trails that lead through the volcanic landscape, to remote beaches or through picturesque villages.
The island has a varied geology that is reflected in the colorful rock formations.
Day trip to Kimolos
From Pollonia you can take the ferry to the small neighboring island of Kimolos, which is known for its tranquility and originality.
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