Is 5 days in Milos too much?

Located in the heart of the Cycladic islands you’ll find the up-and-coming, dreamy, volcanic island of Milos. Neighboring Santorini is easily the most popular fan destination for Greek island enthusiasts, but Milos island is coming up quickly in popularity. From its picturesque beaches to unique geology, the island of Milos deserves a spot on your Greek itinerary. Continue reading this article to plan a Milos itinerary and how to spend the perfect 2, 3, or 4 days in Milos.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Milos?

So, how many days to spend in Milos? The island of Milos is quite small, taking just around an hour to reach one end of the island to the other. Although it is small, there are a wide array of things to do.

From unique beaches to spectacular views and more cultural exploration, you’ll definitely find a spot that steals your heart. I’d recommend an ideal 4 days to get the most out of your time on the island.  

With that being said, 1 day in Milos is enough if you’re island hopping and want to see multiple islands during your trip. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the main town, Plaka, as well as soak up some sun at one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

With 2 days in Milos, you’ll explore more of the history of the island, wander one of the most unique rock formations in the Cyclades, and experience local village life on the island.

For those spending 3 days in Milos, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a tour and spend more time at the beach. And finally, if you’re spending 3 days in Milos, you’ll get to dive even deeper into this unique island.

Getting To & Around Milos

Getting to Milos

Chances are if you’re visiting the island of Milos, you’ll be arriving by ferry. There is an airport in Milos but it only services routes to and from Athens and flight costs are much higher than ferry tickets whether you’re coming from another island or Athens.

There are different ferry options depending on where you’re coming from, and costs can range from around €40-100 for a ferry ticket depending on the speed of the ferry. If you’re interested in flying from Athens, expect to pay at least double that round trip for your flight to Milos.

For those arriving by ferry, you’ll arrive at the port, in the town of Adamantas. Adamantas is a small town located in the northern part of the island and is conveniently located close to popular destinations for accommodation and sightseeing.

From here, there are plenty of bus options making it possible to easily continue onward to your destination. 

The Milos airport is located in the central part of the island and has bus transport connections with the rest of the island. 

Getting Around Milos

When planning your trip to Milos, you’ll likely wonder what the best way to get around the island is. My recommendation for the most flexibility during your trip is to either rent a car (you can browse Rentalcars.com for options) or another vehicle during your stay.

Driving on the Greek islands is quite laid back, the area is very open, and drivers tend to be more forgiving than in big cities.

You can either rent a car, motorcycle, or 4-wheel (ATV). ATVs tend to be the most popular on the islands as you don’t need a motorcycle license, they’re easy to drive and are the most cost-efficient option of the three.

With a motorcycle or ATV, you’ll also be able to go to more off-road destinations on the island which is ideal if you’re an adventure seeker.

Regardless of the vehicle, I highly recommend reserving in advance as prices go higher and higher leading up to the summer season, and are steep if you rent once arriving at the island. 

If, for whatever reason, renting a vehicle isn’t in the cards for your Milos itinerary, the island does have a great bus system. Buses are going throughout the island to the most popular destinations as well as less popular destinations, so you won’t be left behind if you need to take a bus.

Tickets range from €1.60 – €2.00 depending on the route you take and can be purchased on the bus. Bus schedules can be found here. 

2, 3 or 4 Days in Milos Itinerary

Whether you’re spending 2 days in Milos or 4 days in Milos, the island of Milos is a Greek island destination rich in breathtaking sunsets, crystalline water, friendly people, and rejuvenating air.

The good thing is that the island is quite small, so most things can easily be rearranged on this itinerary depending on the length of your stay and interests.

This Milos itinerary offers something for every kind of traveler, and afterwards, you’ll be waiting to return next summer. 

Day 1 –  Fyriplaka Beach & Plaka

Fyriplaka Beach

Upon arrival on the island of Milos, one of the first things you’ll likely be keen to do is to head to the beach. Like most of the beaches on this Milos itinerary, your first stop, Fyriplaka beach is located on the southern part of the island as this is where you’ll find the most idyllic beaches.

Fyriplaka beach is a key part of any Milos itinerary due to its wondrous views, water depths at different levels depending on your comfort level, and volcanic rock surrounding you.

This beach is great for families due to the shallow water areas and has a beach cafe by the water. Either bring your own chairs/towel/umbrella or rent from the beach cafe.

Keep in mind that renting chairs on the islands can be quite costly, especially at the popular beaches (expect to pay on average €30 for a pair of chairs and one umbrella on the island of Milos.)

Fyriplaka beach is located around 22 km. away from Adamantas (the port) and also has nearby bus connections. 

Plaka

Almost every Greek island has its main town, usually with winding steps up to a peak where you’ll find a church and breathtaking sunsets. Milos’ main town is Plaka, stunningly placed on top of a high hill on the island.

Here you’ll find lovely artisanal shops (clothing, jewelry, pottery, etc.), bars of all sorts, restaurants, and idyllic views from every corner. Keep in mind that cars cannot enter the village due to the narrow streets. But this only adds to the picturesque atmosphere, making Plaka a great destination in Milos to start your trip.

After spending the morning/afternoon at Fyriplaka beach, head to Plaka to wander the town, enjoy a local Milos dinner, and be taken to a dream world by witnessing a Cycladic sunset.

For dinner, I recommend heading to the restaurant Mavros Xoiros. Mavros Xoiros or black pigs is a wonderful restaurant in Plaka offering local dishes. The veggie dishes are fresh and vibrant, and the meat dishes are typical to the island with locally sourced meat. 

After dinner, make your way to the Church of Panagia Korfiatissa and maybe grab a takeaway cocktail from nearby to watch the sunset. The sunset from the church viewpoint perched above the cliff makes you feel like you’re in a painting, and quite simply, nothing beats it. Be sure to arrive early enough as it can become extremely busy!

Day 2 – Sarakiniko, Ancient Theater of Milos, Catacombs & Pollonia Fishing Village

Sarakiniko Beach

Easily one of the most identifiable and recognizable landmarks on Milos is Sarakiniko. 

Sarakiniko beach is located on the northeastern part of the island and looks like pieces of the moon have been picked up and placed on Earth, on Milos island. The island of Milos is one of the most volcanic islands in Greece, and this lunar landscape proudly represents this.

From its long, white, smooth rocks encapsulating the sea, to watching brave divers jump the cliffs, Sarakiniko is a must-see and visit for anyone planning a Milos itinerary.

I only recommend cliff jumping from the small cliffs (the higher ones are extremely high and dangerous), and swimming around the surrounding areas for a swim made of aquatic dreams.

For those with 2 days in Milos or more, your day will begin at Sarakiniko, as it’s easily one of the most popular spots to visit on the island. As the day goes on, it gets busier and busier, so the morning is the best time to visit. If you’re feeling awake and adventurous, try heading there for sunrise for a real treat. 

Ancient Theater of Milos & Catacombs

What’s a Greek Island itinerary, without ancient archaeological sightseeing? After spending the morning at Milos’ moon, Sarakiniko, you’ll make your way to the Ancient Theater of Milos. 

The Ancient Theater of Milos is quite literally its name, an ancient theater built-in the 5th century BCE during the Hellenistic period that once hosted festivals.

Located about 5 km away from the town of Adamantas and completely constructed in marble, the Ancient Theater is an ideal spot to learn more about the history of the island as well as the role Milos played in Ancient Greek history.

The theater is free to visit and wander and is usually quite quiet, making it a wonderful place to surround yourself with the history of Milos.

About 500 meters away from the theater you’ll find the Catacombs. The Catacombs of Milos date back to the 1st – 5th century and are easily some of the most important discovered worldwide.

If interested, the Catacombs are a great spot to head to after exploring the ancient theater to further explore Milos’ history. The Catacombs cost €4 for entry and are open Monday – Sunday, 9 AM – 6:45 PM, and are closed on Tuesdays.  

Pollonia Fishing Village

A great way to wind down after exploring ancient Milos is to head to the small fishing village of Pollonia, about 13 km away.

Pollonia is easily one of the prettiest fishing villages on the island, small enough to get around but also big enough to have a good amount of area to explore.

With colorful fishing boats by the sea, waterfront taverns, and classic white Cycladic architecture, Pollonia is a solid choice to have a wander and some dinner before heading back to your accommodation. 

Day 3 – Tour of Choice & Provotas Beach

Geological Tour or Kleftiko Boat Tour

With 3 days in Milos, you’ll have the ideal amount of time on your Milos Itinerary to explore the island further by doing a tour. My recommendation for tours on the island of Milos is a geological tour or tour of Kleftiko Cove. 

A geological tour such as this half-day tour is a great option for those wanting to learn more about the island’s rich geology, as it’s the most volcanic island of the Cyclades.

Milos has a very distinct type of geology due to the way it was formed and a geological tour is a really unique way to learn more about this as well as get more of a particular experience during your stay. Expect to spend around 2-4 hours on a geological tour. 

A tour of Kleftiko Cove such as on this half-day tour or this full-day cruise is a great option for those interested in the popular spot Kleftiko. Kleftiko is one of the most popular spots to visit on the island but unfortunately can only be visited by boat.

Herein lies the Kleftiko Cove tour, where you’ll be taken around the standing rock formations surrounded by turquoise Agean waters as well as given the opportunity to swim, and maybe snorkel. Tours usually leave around Adamantas, can last for half a day or a full day, and end with time to swim on a nearby beach.

Provatas Beach

If you took part in the geological tour and have a keen interest in spending time at a beach every day of your trip or would like to explore further after Kleftiko, head to Provotas beach.

Provotas Beach is located on the southwestern side of Milos and is an incredibly calm beach to wind down from the day and have a swim.

The sand is soft, the water is shallow and there are a few restaurants nearby, making it another great option for a beach if you’re visiting with children.

Day 4 – Greek Breakfast, Paleochori Beach & Sirocco Restaurant

Breakfast at Kivotos ton Gefseon

If you’re spending 4 days in Milos, this will be your final day on this peaceful Cycladic island and you’ll begin it by heading back to the village of Pollonia. Pollonia has Kivotos ton Gefseon, one of the best cafes and breakfast spots on the island and is a must-visit during your trip.

From savory and sweet pies to cooked breakfast and local groceries for purchase, the coffee and food are just as good as the surroundings to enjoy it. With a small garden area with plenty of room to sit, Kivotos ton Gefseon is an ideal spot to start your morning and plan the day.

Paleochori Beach

The 4th and final day of this Milos itinerary will be spent at the volcanic Paleochori beach. Easily the biggest and most colorful beach on the island, Paleochori is probably the best beach on Milos to head to if you’re looking to stay for the day. 

The main part of the beach is long and developed with multiple restaurant options (one of which you will head to for dinner on this itinerary), and is conveniently located to shelter from the northern winds that most of the island experiences. 

With red and yellow rocks surrounding the area, Paleochori beach is likely one you’ll be talking about for months to come (until you return!) If

you’re feeling adventurous during your visit, head past Sirroco restaurant, through the caves, and keep feeling around the depth of the sand by the shore. If you’re lucky, you’ll find natural hot springs, and you’re in for a treat.

Sirocco for Dinner

One of the things that Paleochori beach is most known for, is that it’s the home to the restaurant Sirroco.  Sirocco is located directly on the beach and offers unique local dishes, fresh seafood, and its name to fame, dishes cooked in a volcanic oven underneath the sand. 

Not too far below ground level, a large amount of the menu at Sirroco is cooked using geothermal energy from within the sandpit.

A lot of dishes on the menus throughout restaurants on the island of Milos are quite typical and easy to find throughout Greece, but it’s an easy guess that you haven’t had them cooked using geothermal energy! 

The atmosphere is also quite lovely and makes for the perfect place to spend your last evening in Milo watching the sunset, and reminiscing on memories that will likely last a lifetime.

I also recommend making a reservation for Sirroco in advance as it’s incredibly popular and books up very quickly during the summer months that it’s open.

Where to Stay on Milos

Kapetan Tasos Suites – This aparthotel on Milos is an excellent option for those who want their own space on the island while still having the amenities of a hotel. They have a number of apartments available (ranging from studios to multiple bedrooms) that can suit all kinds of group sizes. Click here to see their availability

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel in the town of Pollonia is a great option for those looking for a luxury escape on Milos. They have a number of beautiful rooms available, a wonderful swimming pool for guests to enjoy and some rooms even include a terrace with sea views. Click here to see their availability

Semiramis Guesthouse – This quaint guesthouse is an excellent choice for budget travellers looking for their own space on Milos. It’s well-located for exploring the island and all rooms have a private bathroom, air-conditioning and a mini fridge. Click here to see their availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Milos hotels!

If you’re searching for a unique Greek island experience and yearning to head to an island off the beaten path, Milos is without a doubt the island for you. Its healing sunsets and peaceful landscape are an ideal place to get away and rejuvenate, and its pristine beaches and exciting culture make it the perfect place to let go. 

Are you considering a visit to Milos? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

How many days should you spend in Milos?

Is Milos too touristy?

Is Sifnos or Milos better?

Is Milos Greece a party island?