Welcome to Milos, a Cycladic island famous for its spectacular coastline and mineral-rich subsoil, a must-see destination for lovers of nature and history. It was here in 1820 that the famous Venus de Milo, now on display at the Louvre, was discovered. Created by successive volcanic explosions, Milos offers unique volcanic landscapes and magnificent beachesthat remain etched in visitors' memories. Whether you're attracted by the translucent waters, the Sikiá cave, the rock formations of Kleftik or the lunar scenery of Sarakiniko, Milos has something for everyone. So what's there to do and see in Milos? Discover our top 11 must-sees in Milos!
1. The village of Plaka
With typical Cycladic charm, the white houses of Plaka cling to the hillside, linked by cobbled lanes that climb up to the kastro. Built by the Venetians in the 13th century, this citadel, although partially in ruins, offers spectacular views, especially at sunset. The Panagía tis Korfiátissas church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is another must-see place to admire the sunset. It is home to some magnificent icons and is an exceptional vantage point. Plaka is also home to the island's archaeological museum, displaying the findings of excavations carried out on Milos, one of the most beautiful Greek islands to visit!
Step back in time by booking this guided tour of Milos. Discover the island's vast history as you explore its main sites, including the catacombs and the Roman amphitheatre.
2. See the Sarakiniko landscapes, a must-do in Milos
This lunar landscape of pure white limestone is a unique geological marvel. The total absence of vegetation and the immaculate rocks plunging into deep blue or translucent water, depending on the location, create a spectacular backdrop. As a result, the site is very busy. We recommend you come early in the morning, before the tourist buses arrive and before the sun gets too strong. Remember to protect yourself from the sun's rays, as you would when skiing, avoid the hottest hours and hydrate regularly.
A sublime place that you can see by booking a day cruise on a sailboat, for example!
3. Visit Mandrakia, one of the world's prettiest fishing villages
Be sure to visit the charming fishing ports of the Cyclades, including Klima, Fyropotamos and Mandrakia on the north coast.
Mandrakia is a fishing village just a few kilometers from Plaka. The boathouses, used in winter, are carved into the rock and blend in perfectly with the natural scenery, forming a picturesque harbor with bright colors contrasting with the crystal-clear water. The peaceful, timeless atmosphere and unique architecture make this a visit not to be missed.
Discover our article A 15-day tour of the Cyclades in Greece.
4. Klima, another pretty village on Milos
Klima has enjoyed a prosperous history, reaching its peak during the Archaic and Classical periods. In those days, the ancient city was surrounded by great walls that extended all the way down to the sea. It minted its own silver coins and developed its own alphabet. Today, you can still visit the ruins of its amphitheatre. It's hard to imagine such activity in this small fishing port, which has preserved its authenticity. Tourism is still underdeveloped. Summer residents live in small, colorful cottages, handed down from generation to generation by old fishing families.
5. What to do in Milos Enjoy the beaches
Milos is a dream destination for beach lovers, offering a multitude of fine sandy sites that will delight bathing and lounging enthusiasts. The sea is often transparent, with breathtaking gradations of blue, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Must-see beaches include Sarakiniko, famous for its lunar landscape and white rock formations, and Firiplaka, with its variegated colors and crystal-clear waters. Don't miss Paliochori, with its multicolored pebbles and hot springs, or Kleftiko, accessible only by boat, with its spectacular caves and rock formations.
Discover the hidden gems of Milos by booking this guided sea kayaking excursion from Fyriplaka beach in Milos.
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6. The catacombs, the largest in the world after those of Rome
The catacombs of Milos, dating from the 6th century BC, are one of the most important early Christian monuments. They house the necropolis of the first Christians of the 1st century. Wrecked by an earthquake in the 5th century, they were rediscovered by chance in 1840. Descending a few steps, you can explore part of this 184-meter-long system of trenches, carved out of pumice stone some 150 meters above sea level.
Book my guided tour of the island of Milos.
7. See the small antique theater for history fans
The ancient theater of Milos is well worth a visit. Well-preserved, it offers a magnificent panorama of the island's coastline. Located near the site of the discovery of the famous Venus de Milo, since July 2022 it has housed a replica of this iconic statue. Access is easy by road, with well-equipped free parking close to the catacombs. A 250-metre path leads to the theater, offering a breathtaking view of the bay and the village of Klima below.
History buffs? Discover the 15 most beautiful archaeological sites to visit in Ancient Greece and explore Milos in an exciting, eco-friendly way on this unforgettable guided tour by electric bike.
8. What to do in Milos A boat trip to the cliffs of Kleftiko
One of Milos's must-sees is the Kleftiko cliffs, an experience not to be missed. Accessible only by boat, these cliffs are often referred to as the "Meteors of the Sea" or "Thalassina Meteora". To discover them, we recommend booking a half-day excursion or a full-day schooner trip. Although this experience has a price tag, it's well worth it. The Kleftiko cliffs, with their impressive rocks plunging into almost unreal blue waters, are the most famous and most photographed site on Milos. You can swim between the arches and explore the many caves, once used by pirates to hide their treasures and booty taken from the Aegean islands.
Book my boat trip to the Kleftiko cliffs
9. See the Sikia cave
Accessible only by boat, Sikia Cave lies to the south of the magnificent beaches of Agios Ioannis. From the sea, you can barely make out an opening in the rock, but once you swim through to the other side of this natural gateway, the spectacle is unique: the roof of the cave, collapsed over thousands of years, lets the sun cascade through. The reflections on the water and white rock create a magical symphony of colors. Inside this open-air cavern, you'll discover emerald waters and a surprising natural pool. Take a break on the pebble beach to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of this site.
Swim on the famous beach of Kalogries, enter the cave of Sykia and snorkel at Kleftiko when you book this day cruise to the inaccessible parts of western Milos.
10. What to do in Milos Admire magnificent sunsets
Would you like to see the most beautiful sunsets on Milos? Go here to book your sunset cruise on a catamaran from Adamantas to Milos!
Another option, discover the hidden gems of the island of Milos while enjoying a breathtaking sunset on this night-time excursion by electric bicycle!
Other options:
- From the church of Plaka: Facing the sea, the orange glow reflects off the white walls of the church, creating a unique atmosphere.
- At the Utopia bar: Right next to the church, sit back and watch the sun set into the sea while enjoying a cocktail.
- At the top of the Kastro: At the end of the day, climb to the top of the Kastro, above the village of Plaka. The panoramic view is magnificent and the sunsets breathtaking. One of the most Instagrammable spots in Greece!
Explore the most Instagrammable spots on Milos by booking this guided tour of the island !
11. Enjoy Greek culinary specialties... yum!
Enjoying Greek culinary specialties is a must during your stay on the island. Enjoy traditional dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki or tzatziki, while savoring fresh, high-quality local produce. Milos restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes, prepared with local ingredients such as olive oil, fresh vegetables and freshly caught fish. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of Greek cuisine while enjoying the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Milos.
Discover the most popular things to do on Milos here :
Where to stay in Milos?
Milos offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the best place to stay:
Option 1: Adamas
Adamas is Milos' main port and the island's nerve center. It's a convenient base for exploring the whole island, but not necessarily the most charming for a tourist stay. It remains an excellent starting point for exploring the various attractions of Milos.
- Advantages: Proximity to shops, restaurants and services. Easy access to public transport and boat excursions. Board a boat from Adamas in Milos and explore the west coast, visiting the famous caves of Kleftiko and Sykia while admiring the spectacular scenery by booking right here !
- Our favorite hotel in Adamas: the Iliana Olive Branch
- The Iliana Olive Branch is a great option for enjoying the countryside in Milos! Located on the heights of Adamas, 600 m from the beach and 1 km from the port, Iliana's family-run studios and apartments are nestled among olive groves and vineyards, each with a fully-equipped kitchen and private terrace overlooking the bay and the sunset. A good address that you can book right here.
Option 2: Pollonia
Pollonia is perfect for those looking for a quieter stay and an authentic village atmosphere. Pollonia is a charming fishing village in the north of the island. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and quiet beaches.
- Benefits: Calm, relaxing atmosphere. Proximity to the neighboring island of Kimolos. Good choice of restaurants and tavernas.
- Our favorite hotel in Pollonia: the Glaronisia Hotel
- Managed by Chrysa and Konstantin, a friendly young couple , the Glaronisia Hotel is surrounded by magnificent gardens planted with colorful bougainvillea. Most of the rooms have a sea view, and there's even a small swimming pool for guests. A big plus is the lovely roof terrace where you can enjoy breakfast. Click here to to book your stay!
Option 3: Plaka
Plaka is ideal for those who appreciate magnificent views and traditional Cycladic architecture. Plaka is the capital of Milos, perched on a hill with stunning sea views. It's a picturesque village with cobbled streets and typical white houses. Be warned, however, that staying in Plaka can be a charming experience, provided you have a car. Bus connections to Adamas are very regular, but you'll lose a lot of time and energy getting to the beaches
- Advantages: Spectacular panoramic views. Proximity to historic sites such as the Archaeological Museum and the Kastro.
- Our favorite Plaka hotel: Archondoula Studios
- Located 3 minutes from the village square in a quiet, car-free area with sea views , the Archondoula Studios are a great option. They are traditionally decorated with wooden ceilings and marble floors. The spacious terrace is shared by all guests: conviviality guaranteed! Click here to book your stay.
What to do in Milos in 2 days
Milos, with its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, offers a multitude of activities to discover in just two days. Here are a few suggestions to optimize your stay:
Day 1: Explore the must-see sites
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the well-preserved ancient theater of Milos, offering panoramic views of the coast. Don't miss the replica of the famous Venus de Milo, on display near the site of its discovery.
- Afternoon: Discover the Catacombs of Milos, an important early Christian monument dating back to the 6th century B.C. These catacombs house the necropolises of the first Christians and offer a fascinating insight into the island's history.
- Evening: End your day admiring the sunset from the church of Plaka or sipping a cocktail at the Utopia bar, while taking in the spectacular sea views.
Day 2: Relax and discover the neighboring islands
- Morning: Enjoy the magnificent beaches of Milos, such as Sarakiniko with its lunar landscape or Firiplaka with its crystal-clear waters. Relax on the fine sand and enjoy the transparent sea.
- Afternoon: If you're staying several days in Milos, opt for a day trip to the islands of Kimolos and Polyaigos. These nearby islands offer unspoilt scenery and absolute tranquility, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
- Evening: Back in Milos, explore the charming fishing villages of Klima and Mandrakia. Sample Greek culinary specialties in one of the local tavernas and savor the island's authentic ambience.
Following this program, you can discover the treasures of Milos while enjoying moments of relaxation and discovering the neighboring islands.
What to do in Milos in 3 days
Day 3: Discover the natural wonders of Milos
- Morning: Leave early for a boat trip to the Kleftiko cliffs, also known as the "Meteors of the Sea". These impressive rock formations plunge into almost unreal blue waters. Swim between the arches and explore the many caves, once used by pirates.
- Afternoon: Visit the Sikia cave, located south of the beaches of Agios Ioannis. From the sea, you'll see an opening in the rock, leading to a natural emerald pool. Take time to relax on the pebble beach and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this site.
- Evening: To round off your stay, climb to the top of the Kastro in Plaka to admire a 360-degree sunset. Take in the magnificent panoramic view and breathtaking sunsets before enjoying a final dinner in one of the local restaurants.
What to do in Milos in 4 days
Day 4: Cultural and historical discovery
- Morning: Visit the Milos Archaeological Museum in Plaka. This museum exhibits finds from excavations carried out on the island, offering a fascinating insight into its ancient history.
- Afternoon: Explore the archaeological site of Filakopi, one of the most important sites of Cycladic civilization (3000 to 1100 BC). Discover the remains of this ancient city and imagine what life was like for its inhabitants thousands of years ago.
- Evening: End your visit with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Plaka, the island's capital. Enjoy the charming, authentic atmosphere of this village perched high above the sea, facing the setting sun. Enjoy a final meal in one of the local tavernas, savoring Greek culinary specialties.
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