Milos holidays

How to reach Milos

• Flight time: To fly to Milos from the UK, you’ll need to route through Athens. Flights to Athens from London take around 4 hours; from there, it’s a 40-minute flight to Milos.

• Transfer time: Milos Island National Airport is within a 15-minute drive of the port town of Adamas.

• Price: Taxiing from the airport to Adamas costs approximately €15–€20.

Weather and best time to visit Milos

Choosing the ideal time for your holidays to Milos depends on what you’re looking to experience.

• April to June is worth considering if you want to beat the crowds but still get nice weather – temperatures average 16°C in April and 25°C in June, rainfall peters off, and you can expect 9 to 11 hours of sunshine daily; the Meltemi winds can kick in as early as mid-May, blowing for a few days in a row.

• July to August are the peak summer months. Dry with temperatures hovering around 29°C, 12 to 13 hours of sunshine daily, and warm waters for swimming. The Meltemi is at its strongest in the afternoon but tends to die down by the evenings. Milos never gets as tourist-saturated as the other Cyclades, but it will be busy.

• September to October is ideal for those who prefer a quieter holiday. Average high temperatures drop from 27°C in September (incidentally, one of the nicest swimming months) to around 23°C by October. Still, there’s plenty of sunshine, around 9 to 10 hours daily, and only one or two days of rain. The Meltemi finally tapers off heading into October.

• November to March is the off-season with cooler temperatures ranging from 16 to 11°C, eight-odd days of rain per month and 4 to 6 hours of daily sunshine. This period is not ideal for beach activities but great for exploring the island’s cultural and historical sites without the crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency used in Greece.

• Getting around: Public buses operate between major towns and beaches, with tickets costing around €2. Car and scooter rentals are popular options for more flexibility; expect to pay €30–€40 per day for a car.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V, and the plug type is the European two-pin plug.

• Time zone: Milos operates on Eastern European Time, 2 hours ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Travel documentation: UK travellers need a valid passport (issued less than 10 years before the date of entry and valid for a minimum of three months after the departure date) but do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Beaches to explore during your Milos holiday

Milos is renowned for its stunning beaches, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Here are some of the top beaches to visit during your Milos holiday.

Sarakiniko Beach

Sarakiniko Beach is one of the most iconic beaches on Milos, known for its striking white volcanic rock formations that create a moon-like landscape. The contrast between the white rocks and the turquoise waters makes it a photographer's paradise.

• Activities: Swimming, cliff jumping, and photography.

• Facilities: Limited, so bring your own supplies.

• Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday sun.

Firiplaka Beach

Firiplaka Beach offers a picturesque setting with its long stretch of fine sand, clear shallow waters, and impressive volcanic cliffs. It’s ideal for both relaxation and water sports.

• Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.

• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small beach bar.

• Tips: Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season.

Tsigrado Beach

Tsigrado Beach is famous for its adventurous access via a ladder and ropes. This secluded beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and offers a cosy bay with clear waters.

• Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, and exploring nearby coves.

• Facilities: Limited parking, no amenities on the beach.

• Tips: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

Paleochori Beach

Paleochori Beach is one of the most organised beaches on Milos, framed by colourful volcanic rocks. It offers a mix of water sports, sunbathing, and excellent dining options.

• Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, and water sports.

• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, and beach bars.

• Tips: For a more private experience, explore the far end of the beach.

Papafragas Beach

Papafragas Beach is a small, unique beach set within a natural cave-like formation, creating an almost enclosed swimming pool. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring natural landscapes.

• Activities: Swimming and exploring sea caves.

• Facilities: None, so bring your own supplies.

• Tips: Access can be tricky, so wear sturdy shoes for the descent.

Provatas Beach

Provatas Beach is ideal for those seeking a sandy beach with ample amenities. It’s easily accessible and offers a relaxing environment with sun loungers and beachside services.

• Activities: Swimming and sunbathing.

• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars.

• Tips: Parking can be limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Kleftiko Beach

Kleftiko Beach is accessible only by boat and is famous for its towering rock formations and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for snorkelling and exploring underwater caves.

• Activities: Snorkelling, swimming, and boat tours.

• Facilities: None, so bring everything you need.

• Tips: Consider taking an organised boat tour for the best experience.

Exploring the diverse beaches of Milos will enhance your holiday experience, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Milos’s beaches.

Local dishes in Milos

Holidays to Milos can be a culinary adventure, with a delightful array of traditional Greek dishes and local specialities on offer, from fresh seafood to sweet treats.

Some typical dishes

• Pitarakia: A local speciality, these small savoury cheese-filled pastries are perfect for a quick snack or starter.

• Skordolazana: Exclusive to the island, this simple pasta dish is likely a legacy of Venetian rule. The main ingredients are durum wheat pasta, Aliada (a garlic dip) and Belte (a sundried tomato paste).

Meze dishes

• Skotirokolokitha: Double-fried sliced courgettes and cheese.

• Bouyiourdi: A spicy combo of clay-baked feta cheese, peppers and tomatoes.

Meat dishes

• Katsikaki: Seasoned young goat baked in parchment.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Kakavia: A traditional Greek fish soup, rich and hearty, made with the freshest catch of the day.

• Astakomakaronada: Spaghetti tossed with lobster meat and tomato sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Melopita: A honey pie that’s both sweet and fragrant, made with local thyme honey and fresh cheese.

• Karpouzopita: A unique watermelon pie that’s sweet and refreshing, made with watermelon, sugar and flour.

• Koufeto: A traditional sweet preserve made from almonds and honey, often enjoyed as a dessert or with coffee.

Typical drinks

• Milos Wine: The island produces some excellent wines. Be sure to try the white wines from the Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes.

• Raki: Raki originates from Crete but is found on all the Cycladic islands. Like Italian grappa, it’s made by distilling the pulpy leftovers from winemaking.

• Tsipouro: A grape distillate in the same family as Raki, Tsipouro is sometimes flavoured with anise, making it taste similar to ouzo.

Best things to do in Milos

Whether exploring dramatic landscapes, discovering stunning beaches, visiting traditional whitewashed villages or digging into the island’s history at archaeological sites and museums, there’s loads to do on holidays to Milos.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Plaka Castle: Perched above the village of Plaka, this Venetian castle offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Aegean Sea, especially at sunset. The view encompasses the Gulf of Milos and the surrounding islands.

• Profitis Ilias: The highest point on the island, this viewpoint provides 360-degree views of Milos. Getting there is a bit of a hike, but the vistas are well worth the effort.

• Sykia Cave: Accessible only by boat, this partially collapsed cave is a natural wonder. The light filtering through the opening creates a surreal atmosphere perfect for photography.

The best districts

• Plaka: Milos’ charming capital, Plaka, is a labyrinth of narrow streets with whitewashed houses awash in colourful bougainvillaea. It’s the perfect place for a stroll, shopping for local crafts and dining in traditional tavernas. Find out more about what this town has to offer with our deals on holidays to Plaka.

• Adamas: Bustling Adamas is the gateway to Milos, home to the island’s main harbour, numerous shops, restaurants, bars and a few good museums.

• Pollonia: A picturesque fishing village on the northeastern coast, Pollonia has a laid-back vibe, a sandy beach and excellent seafood restaurants. It’s also the departure point for ferries to the nearby island of Kimolos.

Museums

• Archaeological Museum of Milos: This small archaeological museum in Plaka is filled with fascinating artefacts and antiquities, ranging from obsidian tools and pottery to a modern copy of the Venus di Milo.

• Milos War Museum: Located in Plaka, this World War II bunker is an apt setting for a museum chronicling the German occupation of the island between 1941 and 1945.

Historical monuments

• Ancient Theatre of Milos: Near the village of Tripiti, this well-preserved Roman theatre dates to the Hellenistic period and is still used for performances during the summer months.

• Catacombs of Milos: These early Christian catacombs are among the largest in Greece. Located near Tripiti, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s religious history.

• Venus de Milo Discovery Site: With the Venus di Milo spirited away to the Louvre and not much to see beyond a plaque, this is more of a been-there, seen-that excursion, only worth doing if you happen to be in Tripiti.

Day trips in the area

• Kimolos: A short ferry ride from Pollonia, the island of Kimolos offers quiet beaches, traditional villages and a relaxed atmosphere. Discover our deals on holidays to Kimolos.

• Kleftiko: Famous for its stunning rock formations and sea caves, Kleftiko is best reached by boat.

• Sifnos: A 40-minute to 2-hour ferry ride away, Sifnos is known for its beautiful beaches, whitewashed villages and hiking trails. Before booking, make sure to check the best offers on holiday packages to Sifnos.

Activities for families in Milos

There are plenty of things to do with the kids on holidays to Milos.

• Boat tours: Tours take in stunning rock formations, sea caves and remote beaches, with stops for swimming and snorkelling, making for a fun-filled day on the water.

• Open water swimming: The shallow waters off Firiplakam, Pollonia and Agia Kiriaki beaches are particularly family-friendly.

• Interactive museums: The Milos Mining Museum in Adamas is less dry than it sounds. Its interactive exhibits highlight the island's mining history, making it an engaging way for children to learn about geology and local history.

Free things to do in Milos

From relaxing on the beach to museum- and festival-going, there are plenty of free things to do on your Milos holidays.

• Annual festivals: Religious folk festivals occur across the island between June and September, culminating in communal feasts with traditional music and dancing.

• Beaches: Milos has over 70 beaches to explore. Sarakiniko is the most iconic, thanks to its unique lunar-like landscape of white volcanic rock, natural caves and crystal-clear azure waters.

• Museums: Dedicated to the sands of the world, the Marmara Sand Museum in Plaka is one-of-a-kind. The museum gallery showcases unique works of art, and in the laboratory area, you can view slides under a microscope. The Ecclesiastical Museum of Milos, housed in the Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) Church in Adamas, with its superb collection of icons, is another worthwhile stop for art lovers.

Wellness in Milos

• Spas and thermal baths: The island’s volcanic nature has blessed it with natural hot springs, particularly around Paliochori and Kanava. These thermal baths are known for their therapeutic properties, providing a unique and relaxing experience.

• Traditional body care: Embrace local traditions with treatments using natural ingredients found on the island, such as volcanic minerals and sea salts. Many spas offer massages and body scrubs that utilise these local resources for a refreshing experience.

• Yoga and meditation: Milos is an ideal location for yoga enthusiasts. Several retreats and classes are available in beautiful outdoor settings overlooking the sea.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking trails: Milos boasts numerous scenic hiking trails. Popular routes include the trails around Tripiti and the western part of the island, which offer breathtaking views and the chance to spot local wildlife.

• Kayaking: Explore the island’s coastline and hidden coves by kayak. Rental companies in Pollonia and Adamas provide guided tours for all skill levels.

• Scuba diving and snorkelling: The clear waters around Milos are prime diving and snorkelling territory. Dive centres offer courses and excursions to underwater caves and shipwrecks.

• Bird-watching: Wetlands, such as the Achivadolimni Lagoon, are hot spots for birding. Look for flamingos, herons and other migratory birds that frequent the area.

• Rock climbing: The island’s volcanic cliffs provide challenging routes for climbers of all levels. Guided climbing tours are available for those looking to explore this adventurous activity.

• Cycling: The roads around Milos are generally quiet, making cycling a safe and enjoyable way to discover the island’s natural beauty.