Is Milos Worth Visiting in 2025? Things To Do and Reasons Why It Is!

Planning a trip to the Cyclades and wondering if Milos is worth visiting?

Then you’ve landed on the right page! After two trips to Milos, I can give you an in-depth answer to the question, “Is Milos worth visiting?”

To keep it brief, yes, visit Milos! This Cycladic gem is home to some of the most unique beaches in Greece, charming fishing villages, and a stunning volcanic landscape.

Milos deserves all its praise as one of Greece’s premier islands to visit. The island will provide you with an unforgettable time.

This post will review some of the best things to do in Milos, where to stay, how to get there, and more to help you plan your Greece trip.

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Is Milos Worth Visiting in 2025?

Yes, Milos is 100% worth visiting! The island is in the Cyclades region in Greece where you can also find Mykonos, Paros, and Syros.

It’s no surprise that this island has become increasingly popular. Milos is the perfect place if you’re after a blend of incredible beaches, unique landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere.

While the destination is growing with tourism, it still offers a more authentic experience than Santorini or Mykonos and provides a break from the intense crowds on those islands.

One of the best parts about Milos is how friendly and welcoming the locals are. I encountered a few hiccups during my visits and was only met with kindness and quality assistance each time.

The island has something to offer everyone, whether you’re into nature, water activities, history, or a delicious culinary scene.

What Is Special About Milos, Greece?

This is a loaded question because there is SO much to appreciate about Milos, but I’ll try to keep it short.

Previous volcanic activity created rock formations that give Milos some of the most unique scenery in Greece. Its stunning beaches, like Sarakiniko’s dramatic moonlike appearance, are surreal to see in person.

With more than 70 beaches on the island, there’s plenty to explore. The crystal clear waters offer the perfect environment for swimming and other water activities.

There’s more to the island than just the beaches. Milos is also an excellent destination for exploring beautiful fishing villages, visiting archaeological sites, going on boat tours, and chasing sunsets.

In addition, Milos is home to traditional Cycladic architecture, including whitewashed houses, domed churches, and winding streets lined with bougainvillea.

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Things To Do in Milos

There’s an activity for everyone in Milos. Whether you want to go on boat tours to hidden beaches, learn about archaeological sites, or stroll through finishing villages, Milos has it all!

Next are some of the best things to do in Milos to include on your itinerary.

1. Explore the Beaches

Exploring the beaches is easily one of Milos’s best things to do. With over 70 beaches, the options are endless.

You’ll step into a paradise of endless turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations, no matter which one you choose to visit on a given day.

Next are some to consider for your trip:

Sarakiniko Beach

A trip to Milos is nearly incomplete without a visit to Sarakiniko Beach.

Sarakiniko is one of the most unique beaches in Greece. Its notable moonlike landscape is the result of volcanic activity. The contrast of the white rock with the shades of blue from the sea is unlike anything I have seen.

One of the most popular areas on the beach is the natural arch and its nearby cliffs. To reach this, follow the path on the left side of the beach, which will be easy to spot.

This beach is also an incredible spot for sunrise or sunset. There are fewer people at these times, especially at sunrise.

Reaching Sarakiniko is easy, taking only about 10 minutes from Adamas. There is a designated parking area, and buses departing from Adamas make the journey if you don’t have a rental.

Kleftiko Beach

A visit to Kleftiko Beach is an essential experience on Milos. Kleftiko features strikingly blue waters, impressive volcanic rock formations, and caves.

Few places compare to the beauty and wonder of this location.

A boat tour to Kleftiko Beach is the perfect way to explore the area up close! You’ll discover a variety of captivating natural arches and can enjoy a swim in the transparent waters.

➡️I went on this half-day Boat Tour to Kleftiko.

Tsigrado Beach

Tsigrado is a remote beach known for its adventurous access and surrounding scenery.

Located on the island’s southern coast, Tsigrado is tucked between cliffs and can only be reached by climbing down a narrow ladder and ropes. If you’re an adventure traveler, this is a great activity!

The beach’s beautiful waters create an ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling, and discovering underwater formations.

👉TRAVEL TIP: Wear proper footwear and bring a suitable bag to make going down the ladder easier at Tsigrado.

Firiplaka Beach

Firiplaka Beach is located in southern Milos and is one of the most popular due to its distinctive cliffs, rock formations, and beautiful waters.

This beach is also partly organized with beach amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a cantina, making it a comfortable spot for a day of relaxation.

I did not stay long when I visited because the beach was overcrowded. I recommend coming early or around sunset to avoid the crowds.

2. Do an Unforgettable Boat Tour

Still wondering, “Is Milos is worth visiting? A catamaran cruise will quickly show you why it is.

The catamaran cruise I did during my first trip to Milos remains one of the best excursions ever! It’ll easily be one of the highlights of your trip.

A catamaran tour in Milos is one of the best ways to explore the island’s coastline and hidden beaches. As you sail through crystal-clear turquoise waters, you’ll see stunning cliffs, colorful rock formations, and secluded coves.

Most tours take you to iconic spots like Kleftiko, a breathtaking bay with sea caves and natural arches you can only reach by boat. Other noteworthy spots that tourists visit are Sikia Cave and Tsigrado Beach.

What better way to enjoy your day than relaxing on deck, enjoying the views, and eating fresh Greek dishes and drinks from the crew?

➡️I recommend this excellent Best of Milos and Poliegos Catamaran!

3. Enjoy the Sunset at Plaka

While you can experience an incredible sunset from many places on the island, the ones in Plaka are among the best. Plaka is the capital of Milos, and its location on a hill provides unbelievable views.

A hike to the Venetian Castle of Milos (Plaka Kastro) is 100% worth it. You’ll not only be able to get panoramic sunset views but also complete views of the island’s landscape.

As you go to the castle, you will see a church below it that also provides great views. I encourage you to go all the way up, but this is another great spot to watch the sunset.

In addition to the castle, there are multiple cafes and restaurants with sweeping sunset views. Some to check out include Utopia Cafe, Mosaic, and Piazza Castello Café.

4. Wander Around the Fishing Villages

The colorful fishing villages are a must-see on any trip to Milos. Each village has its special character and picture-perfect views, and the locals greet you with warm hospitality.

Here are two that are worthwhile for your trip:

Klima Fishing Village

Klima is a traditional fishing village on Milos, famous for its row of syrmata, which are colorful traditional fishermen’s boathouses.

The syrmata create picturesque views of the village and complement the turquoise waters. Today, most syrmata are vacation rentals, with only a few used for their original purpose.

The fishing village is also an excellent place to come for the sunset. Astakas is Klima’s only restaurant and is an amazing sunset spot, but make a reservation well in advance!

Mandrakia Fishing Village

Mandrakia is one of the most beautiful villages on the island. Located on the island’s northern coast, it’s only a 10-minute drive from Adamas and Sarakiniko.

This fishing village looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. The colorful syrmata that line the small harbor create stunning views. The backdrop of the crystal-clear Aegean waters only adds to the scene.

👉TRAVEL TIP: Please remember that people still live in the syrmata and respect their privacy.

In Madrakia, you will find Medusa, one of the most well-known restaurants on the island. Make sure to try some swordfish souvlaki, calamari, and other freshly caught seafood there.

5. Dine at Sirocco Restaurant

Sirocco is a beachfront restaurant located on Paleochori Beach. If you’re looking for a special dining experience, this is the place to be!

So, what’s the deal with this restaurant? They are known for cooking select dishes in a volcanic sand oven. Some dishes cooked in the pit include eggplant, potatoes, roasted lamb leg, and fish.

In addition to the volcanic dishes, you can enjoy a variety of seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local specialties.

👉TRAVEL TIP: This restaurant is not a hidden gem. Make a reservation in advance!

6. Take a Day Trip to Kimolos

While in Milos, don’t miss the opportunity to visit its sister island, Kimolos. It’s a breeze to get to, and it has some of the most beautiful scenery in the Cyclades.

This island allows you to explore an even more laid-back destination with some of the most beautiful waters in the Cyclades.

To reach Kimolos, you first need to reach Pollonia Port. If you don’t have a rental vehicle, you can take a bus to Pollonia. If you have a rental, you can bring it on the ferry, park it in a lot, or find a valid spot on the street.

It’s only a 25-minute ferry ride from there to reach another paradise. Some of the best things to do in Kimolos include visiting the Chorio, relaxing on beaches like Prassa, and hiking the various trails.

Year-round routes connect Milos and Kimolos numerous times during the tourist season. While less developed than Milos, you can stay overnight in one of the limited accommodation options.

7. Visit the Catacombs

The Milos Catacombs are among the most significant archaeological sites on the island. The catacombs date back to the 1st century; some say they may be older than Rome’s.

The burial grounds carved into volcanic rock give a glimpse into the island’s early Christian past. Although access to the public is limited, visitors can still navigate through the winding tunnels and learn valuable history.

While they might not be the most exciting activity for everyone, they are easy to combine with Klima and the Ancient Theater as they are all near one another. Entrance to the catacombs is €4, and they are closed on Tuesdays.

8. Tour the Ancient Theater

Among the best historical things to do in Milos is visit the Ancient Theater. Located near the village of Tripiti, this theater dates back to the 3rd century BC.

This site remains one of the Cycladic region’s most well-preserved Roman theaters. After being closed for nearly two decades for preservation, the theater now hosts cultural events and performances.

The theater’s location on a hill’s slope also provides incredible southward views of the nearby harbor. While visiting, don’t miss out on Klima and the catacombs, as they are nearby!

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How To Get to Milos

You have two options for getting to Milos: plane or ferry. The best option will depend on your specific itinerary and preferences.

Flight to Milos

If you’re coming from Athens, Milos Island National Airport (code: MLO) has domestic flights from the country’s capital.

The flight from Athens is short, taking 40 to 45 minutes. The route is available year-round and has numerous departures during the tourist season.

While other islands in the Cyclades, like Paros, have airports, you cannot take a direct flight from them to Milos. You will first need a connection in Athens for commercial flights from one island to another.

Ferry to Milos

The other option available for reaching Milos is by ferry.

Traveling by ferry is the simplest way to go if you’re already on another island in the Cyclades. This is especially true if your departing island doesn’t have an airport.

You can catch a direct route from numerous islands, including Santorini, Folegandros, Naxos, and Ios. Travel times depend on your route and vessel, but from Sifnos, it will take only 45 minutes, while Santorini is a longer journey at 2 to 5 hours.

Additionally, you can take a ferry from Athens. While a longer journey, it’s great if you want to admire views from the Aegean Sea or avoid the plane.

Ferries from Athens have various durations due to different routes from the operators. On average, the journey takes anywhere from 3 hours and 30 minutes to 7 hours.

➡️Book your ferry to Milos with Ferryhopper!

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Best Time To Visit Milos, Greece

The best time to visit Milos is largely the same as most Greek islands: May through early October.

If you’re looking for the best balance of lower costs, smaller crowds, and temperatures of mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F), visit during the shoulder season. The shoulder season months are May, June, September, and October.

My two visits were in late June and early October. Between both trips, I enjoyed pleasant weather with plenty of sunny days and a relaxing time without peak crowds.

On the other hand, if you want the warmest temperatures and don’t mind the crowds, a visit during July and August is the best.

These months are the peak season when costs soar, and the villages are full of activity. If you plan to visit a place that requires reservations, do so well in advance.

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Where To Stay in Milos

While planning your trip to Milos, there are three main villages to consider when looking for accommodation.

Adamas

Adamas (also Adamantas) is the island’s main port town, offering a convenient base with plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, and convenient transportation options.

This is where I stayed for my second trip to Milos. Adamas is ideal if you want to be close to amenities and ferry connections.

📍Olea Bay Hotel ($$$)
📍The White Suites ($$)
📍Milos Apartments ($)

Plaka

Plaka, the island’s capital, sits on a hill with panoramic views and a traditional Cycladic feel.

Staying here is ideal if you’re drawn to narrow, winding streets, classic architecture, and amazing sunset spots.

📍Eiriana Luxury Suites ($$$)
📍Chaido Studios ($$)
📍Georgia Rooms Milos ($)

Pollonia

Pollonia is a charming fishing village on the northeastern coast that’s perfect if you want quiet beaches and to escape the crowds in other villages.

This village also offers excellent seafood restaurants and quick ferry access to the nearby island of Kimolos.

📍White Pebble Suites ($$$)
📍Litsa Malli Rooms ($$)
📍Villa Mary Elen ($)

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FAQs: Is Milos Worth Visiting

I hope this post has helped you discover how much Milos is worth appreciating! This paradise is an excellent choice to add to your island-hopping itinerary.

Next, I’ll answer some commonly asked questions to help you further with your Milos trip.

Is Milos Worth Going To?

Yes, Milos is worth visiting! This should be on your itinerary if you’re drawn to natural beauty, distinctive landscapes, and a quieter island experience.

Milos is part of the Cyclades and has a special charm that distinguishes it from crowded destinations like Santorini. Milos has numerous beaches, each with character—from white, lunar-like Sarakiniko to the dramatic cliffs and sea caves of Kleftiko.

The island’s relaxed vibe and authenticity also make it appealing if you’re after a less commercialized, more immersive Greek experience. Milos still feels like a place where local life thrives alongside tourism, which can make for a more personal visit.

You can explore picturesque fishing villages like Klima and Mandrakia. While there, see the syrmata that line the shore and dine at seaside restaurants.

Historical sites like the ancient catacombs and the Ancient Theater are unique to the island and enrich any Greek vacation.

How Many Days Do You Need for Milos?

There is no set rule for how long you should stay in Milos—it depends on what you want from your time in Greece.

Most recommend spending at least three to four days on the island for a first visit. That’s also a good rule of thumb for most islands.

This gives you enough time to enjoy a range of experiences, from wandering around the lovely villages to exploring the moonlike landscape at Sarakiniko.

You can also try popular excursions, like a catamaran cruise, to see hard-to-reach beaches and visit archaeological sites.

However, you can easily spend a week or more in Milos for a more leisurely or in-depth experience. With extra time, you’ll be able to explore more of the island’s hidden treasures, dive deeper into village life, and even take a day trip to nearby Kimolos.

If you leave with places left to discover, it’s just one more reason to return!

Is Milos Better Than Paros?

Whether one island is better than the other will depend on your preferences. While they are in the same island group, some distinctive traits can help you decide on one.

You should visit Milos if you want unique beaches, a chance to see a picturesque volcanic landscape, better adventure activities, and a more laid-back island.

Alternatively, Paros wins if you want exciting nightlife, easier-to-access beaches, more shopping options, and better public transportation, then go to Paros.

However, both islands have no shortage of charming villages, beautiful Cycladic architecture, and plenty of beaches.

Is Milos Expensive?

Like many Greek islands, Milos offers a range of prices depending on your travel style. It tends to be less expensive than Santorini but less affordable than Tinos.

But don’t let that scare you away! There are ways to fit a Milos trip into various budgets and lifestyles.

With its rise in popularity, costs have overall increased on the island. My first visit was in 2021, and my second was in 2024, and I certainly noticed the price hikes, particularly with lodging.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious boutique hotels. Prices generally range from ($50-$100) for budget, ($100-$175) for mid-range, and ($175+) for luxury.

In peak season (July and August), prices can spike significantly, so planning a visit in the shoulder season often results in more reasonable rates.

Eating out in Milos can be affordable if you stick to local tavernas and casual dining spots. A meal at a traditional taverna might cost between €10-€20 per person.

In villages like Plaka and Adamas, you’ll find both budget-friendly options and higher-end restaurants that charge more, particularly for seafood and waterfront views. Street food like souvlaki is widely available and inexpensive (€3-€5), which can help keep food costs down.

While exploring the island’s beaches and scenic spots is recommended, car rental can be expensive in high season. Public buses are available and more affordable at €2 per journey, though they don’t reach every corner of the island.

Catamaran tours to see the famous Kleftiko caves are popular but cost around €120-€200 per person. While Milos isn’t the most affordable destination, careful planning and timing can make it accessible for various budgets.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for Milos?

Before any trip, I recommend getting travel insurance to cover unexpected events. It’s always better to come prepared, especially with an adventure travel destination like Milos.

Safety Wing offers plans designed for nomadic travelers, providing comprehensive medical and travel coverage to keep you secure against surprises during your Milos trip.

➡️I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance in advance for Milos.

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To Sum Up: Is Milos Worth Visiting?

So, is Milos worth visiting? After reading this post, I hope you agree it is worth visiting!

Milos stands as one of the most unique islands in Greece. Volcanic activity created one of the most surreal landscapes, with moonlike beaches and impressive rock formations.

Some other great activities to include on your Greece vacation to Milos include visiting the fishing villages, going on a catamaran cruise, and exploring the archaeological sites.

If you’re looking for other quieter islands in the Cyclades, don’t forget about Folegandros, Tinos, and Koufonisia!

Have an incredible time in Milos! It’s one of the best islands in Greece.