Milos Greek Island
Milos Island Greece
Capital City: Plaka
Area: 151 Sq. KM
Population: 4800
Average Tourist: 1000000 Per Year
Milos lies in the south west Cyclades and has a strong volcanic character, which gives it striking landscapes, unusual rock shapes and more than seventy different beaches. The coastline changes from smooth white cliffs at Sarakiniko to deep coves and sea caves at Kleftiko, while many smaller bays offer calm clear water for swimming. Inland, the island is green for much of the year, with low hills, traditional farms and protected nature areas under the Natura two thousand scheme.
The main towns of Plaka, Adamas and Pollonia all have a relaxed Cycladic feel, with white painted houses, blue doors, small churches and friendly tavernas that serve fresh local food. Milos is also rich in history, from ancient obsidian trade and long running mines to the place where the famous statue of Venus of Milos was discovered. Visitors can explore the catacombs, an old theatre and several small museums that tell the story of the island. Compared with more famous neighbours like Santorini and Mykonos, Milos feels less crowded and more authentic, with a calm mood that suits couples, families and anyone who loves nature and the sea.
Main Attractions in Milos
Sarakiniko Beach with its white rock moonscape and bright blue water.
Kleftiko Cove, famous for sea caves and boat trips around dramatic rock formations.
The colourful fishing village of Klima with traditional boat houses on the water.
The early Christian Catacombs of Milos near Tripiti, one of the most important in Greece.
The ancient theatre of Milos with sea views below Tripiti.
The Mining Museum in Adamas, which tells the eleven thousand year mineral history of the island.
The Bronze Age archaeological site of Phylakopi in the north of the island.
Sunset and the old Venetian Kastro above Plaka, with views over the gulf.
Boat trips around the island to visit caves like Papafragas and Sikia and many remote beaches.
Relaxing on sandy beaches such as Achivadolimni, Paliochori and Provatas.
Main Cities and Towns in Milos
Plaka
Plaka is the capital and most traditional town, built on a hill with narrow lanes, white painted houses and sunset views over the gulf of Milos
Adamas
Adamas, also written as Adamantas, is the main harbour town and the practical centre of the island, with many hotels, tavernas, cafes and boat tour companies around its large natural bay.
Pollonia
Pollonia is a peaceful seaside village in the north east, known for its sandy beach, waterfront restaurants and the small port where boats leave for the nearby island of Kimolos.
Tripiti
Tripiti sits above the sea close to Plaka and looks down towards the ancient theatre and the famous early Christian catacombs, with traditional houses, churches and quiet streets.
Klima
Klima is a colourful fishing village with traditional boat houses right on the water, painted in bright shades and often called syrmata, which are popular for photos and sunset views.
Main Ports in Milos
Adamas Port:
Adamas is the main ferry port of Milos and one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, handling regular ferries and fast boats from Piraeus and other Aegean islands
Pollonia Port
Pollonia has a smaller local port that connects Milos with the nearby island of Kimolos, with frequent short ferry crossings across the narrow channel.
How to get to Milos
By plane
Milos has a small island airport, Milos Island National Airport, with short domestic flights from Athens during the season. There are currently no direct flights from the United Kingdom, so travellers usually fly to Athens and then take a short onward flight to Milos.
By ferry from Athens
Regular ferries and high speed boats run from the port of Piraeus near Athens to Milos, with journey times of about seven hours on normal ferries and around three hours on faster services.
By ferry from other islands
Milos is linked by sea to several Cyclades islands such as Santorini, Mykonos and Crete, so it is easy to include in a wider island trip. From Pollonia there is a local ferry to Kimolos as well
Activities in Milos
Attractions
Activities
Beaches
Ferry
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Milos
When is the best time to visit Milos
The best months for a balance of warm weather and fewer crowds are late spring and early autumn, especially May, June, September and October.
How many days do I need on Milos
Most travellers find that three to four full days gives enough time to see the main towns, take a boat trip and visit several beaches without rushing.
Is Milos good for families
Yes, Milos is very suitable for families, with many calm sandy beaches, a friendly local feel and a quieter atmosphere than some other Greek islands.
Do I need a car on Milos
A car or quad makes it much easier to reach the many beaches and villages, although there are also local buses and organised boat trips to some key spots.
Can I visit Milos as a day trip from another island
Day trips are possible from nearby islands like Kimolos and sometimes from Santorini, but to enjoy the variety of landscapes it is better to stay at least one or two nights.
