The ultimate travel guide to Milos
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a Greek island to visit, but there’s something quite magical about Milos.
Why Milos?
Tucked away in the southern Cycladic islands lies Milos. Known for its picturesque fishing villages and unique landscape, the island is bursting with charm. Expect to see traditional, white-washed houses and plenty of crystal-clear Aegean waters to match. It’s also home to the lunar beauty of Sarakiniko – a beach you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left. With no international airport to boast, the island has managed to keep its authentic appeal and has a much more laidback feel than the tourist hotspots of Mykonos and Santorini.
Where to stay?
We split our time between Plaka and Klima.
Plaka is the capital of Milos. Down its narrow and labyrinth-like streets, you’ll find various local restaurants, cafes and shops. The village is styled in the traditional Cycladic architecture and is scattered with beautiful white houses and flowering bougainvillea trees.
We stayed in a boutique Airbnb called Milos Bliss. While only a short walk into the centre of town, we found our apartment to be a complete sanctuary. Each room was meticulously decorated, and the pool offered perfect relief after a busy day of exploring. Our host, Dimitra, went above and beyond to make sure every guest had a special trip, advising on activities and the best spots Milos has to offer.
In Klima, we stayed in a converted sirmata – a traditional waterfront house formerly used as a fisherman storehouse. This was a real bucket list travel experience for me. I’d long lusted after the colourful houses situated right by the sea and the experience matched every expectation. Early mornings and golden hour were idyllic. We stayed in “The Colorful Land Milos” on Airbnb and it was everything I could have dreamed for and more! Our host, Petar, made us feel right at home and checked in throughout our visit to make sure we were enjoying our stay. I’m already itching for an excuse to return!
Where to visit?
Sarakiniko beach – this beach is nothing short of spectacular. Formed of smooth white volcanic rock, its lunar landscape is truly unique and a photographer’s dream. Go for sunrise and stay for cliff jumping!
Other beaches worth a mention – Tsigrado (if adventure is your style), Fyriplaka (if you prefer a more organised beach) and Plathiena (for those who enjoy calm waters. It’s great for sunset too).
Head to the fisherman villages of Klima, Firopotamos and Mandrakia – quaint boat houses with brightly coloured doors line these waterfront villages.
Hire a boat – Milos has so many incredible places to swim and some spots are only accessible by boat, so renting one for the day is a must! Don’t miss Kleftiko and Gerakas beach. We booked in advance with Blue Mile Rentals and they were brilliant.
Where to eat?
O! Hamos – a family run restaurant, serving locally sourced food. Their entire menu is handwritten and includes a history of the taverna’s origin. Don’t miss the chickpeas, slow cooked lamb and the orange cake. We went at around 5pm to avoid queueing for too long, but you’re able to get a drink and wait by the sea if there is a wait!
Nostos seafood – a great spot for fish lovers, right by the water. The shrimp pasta was a delight.
Medusa – the octopus is a must. We tagged this onto a visit to Mandrakia and headed to the restaurant before it opened for lunch to avoid queuing.
Bakeries – try Palaois Pastry, Artemis and Mouratos. Orange cake is the local delicacy – delightful if you have a sweet tooth like me!
Sunset spots
Venetian Castle – as one of the highest points on the island, the views here are unmatched. Arrive in good time to grab a prime spot and head to dinner in Plaka afterwards.
Utopia – enjoy a cocktail while you watch the sun go down. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening as spaces outside are limited.
Klima – in case I hadn’t sold Klima enough! Stay in one of the fisherman huts and enjoy the sunset from your very own balcony.
How to get there?
Milos has a domestic airport and you can fly there via Athens.
You can also catch a ferry from Athens or Santorini. From experience, the ferries tend to be more reliable (Milos can get very windy, which can affect the reliability of flights)