Your Complete Milos, Greece Itinerary: Beaches, Boat Trips & Budget Stays

Dreaming of an island escape that’s equal parts breathtaking and chill? Welcome to Milos, Greece – a Cycladic gem that’s still flying slightly under the radar compared to its glitzier neighbours. I spent some incredible days exploring its lunar beaches, storybook villages, and impossibly clear waters, and I’m here to give you the full lowdown…from how to get to Milos, to the best things to do, plus budget-friendly accommodation you’ll actually want to stay in. Let’s dive into your ultimate Milos travel guide!

This post may contain affiliate links that help support my business in creating content like this. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.

Top left: bougainvillea and Greek villages. Top right: cycling along the waterfront. Bottom left: sunset view from Plaka Castle. Bottom right: Kleftiko Beach.

Getting to Milos

By ferry: Ferries from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Milos run frequently, especially during summer. It’s about a 3-4 hour journey depending on the type of ferry. Ferries can book out in advance so I recommend booking as early as possible! Book your ferry tickets in advance ➔

By plane: There’s also a tiny airport on Milos! Daily flights from Athens take just under 40 minutes. Search for flights ➔

👉 Tip: Ferries are super scenic, but flights can be faster if you’re short on time.

Cash or Card?

You’ll want both. Most places in Milos accept credit cards (especially restaurants and hotels), but cash is king for small purchases like beach loungers, snacks, and tiny tavernas tucked into hidden coves.
I recommend bringing a cute but reliable cross body bag to keep your essentials safe. You can check out my favorite cross body bag.

Getting Around

Rent a car or ATV — seriously. Milos is all about the beaches and secret spots that buses just don’t reach.
Driving is super chill (way easier than in Santorini, FYI), and parking is free pretty much everywhere. Find the best car rental deals ➔

No license? No problem — you can still hop on organized day trips around the island. Explore Milos tours ➔

A Few Handy Greek Phrases

Locals really appreciate even a few words of Greek. Here’s your mini cheat sheet:

Hello: Yassas (formal) / Yasou (informal)
Thank you: Efcharistó (pronounces ef-car-is-toe)
Please/You’re welcome: Parakaló
How much?: Poso kani?

🌟 Pro Tip: Get your hands on a basic Greek phrasebook or app before your trip!

Top left: Sarakiniko Beach. Top right: stunning views across the island. Bottom left: glimpses into Greek life. Bottom right: aesthetically appealing store shelves.

Where to Stay: Budget-Friendly but Comfortable Picks

Looking for a cozy, stylish place that won’t wreck your travel budget? Here are my top 5 spots to stay in Milos:

Hotel Eleni – Adamas – Family-run and 5 mins from the ferry port.
Giannis Hotel Apartments – Adamas – Cute self-catering studios perfect for a longer stay.
Villa Gallis – Pollonia – Boutique vibes without the boutique price.
Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel – Pollonia – Stretch your budget slightly for insane sea views.
Hotel Aeolis – Adamas – Super central with comfy rooms and amazing service.

Top left: Mandrakia Beach. Top right: sign at Firopotamos Beach. Bottom left: one of the many tiny Greek churches adorning the island. Bottom right: enjoying the sun at Firopotamos Beach.

Where to Wine & Dine

Apollonia Grill House – possibly the best gyros I’ve ever had
Medusa – an absolute must while visiting Milos, make sure you book a table in advance
Captain Zeppos – cute hotel with terrace restaurant
Barriello – most romantic dinner spot and amazing cocktails
Okto Milos – great spot to stop for a coffee
Cafe Palaios – and old school Greek cafe
Piazza Castello – amazing coffee and sweet treats with knockout sunset views
Kivotos ton Gefseon – famous for its decadent chocolate pie
O! Hamos! Tavern – a Milos institution with traditional family recipes
Gyros of Milos – cheap, cheerful, and absolutely delicious
Garden the Juice Bar – smoothies, acai bowls, and fresh-pressed juices
Mentor Coffee Guidance & More – amazing coffee
Ergina – home-style Greek cooking with gorgeous views over the island
Arethousa – a staple in the Greek culture – a good bakery!
Sirocco Volcanic Restaurant – they literally cook food in the sand using volcanic heat, just wow.

Top left: delicious bakery treats. Top right: Medusa restaurant. Bottom left: artwork at Barriello. Bottom right: gyros from Apollonia Grill House, yum!

Things To Do & Places to Explore

Adamantas – This bustling little port town is where your Milos adventure will likely start and the best place to base yourself in my opinion. It’s full of great restaurants, cafés, and easy ferry access if you’re planning on island-hopping. Definitely grab a freddo espresso and people-watch by the marina.
Sarakiniko Beach (aka. moon beach) – Iconic doesn’t even cut it. Sarakiniko’s white volcanic rock formations are literally out of this world. Go early to beat the crowds and wear sturdy shoes, it’s a bit rocky! If you’re up for an adventure, book onto a Half Day Electric Bike Tour to Sarakiniko Beach!
Pollonia Beach – A charming fishing village with a sandy beach, perfect for a chill afternoon. Grab lunch at one of the seaside tavernas…fresh seafood galore.
Firopotamos Beach – Tiny, stunning, and flanked by colorful boathouses. The water here is unreal. It’s also one of the best photo spots in Milos, so make sure you bring a waterproof phone pouch!
Klima Beach – Famous for its traditional syrmata (boat garages turned rainbow-colored houses). Visit at golden hour – the light is just pure magic.
Plaka – If you only chase one sunset in Milos, make it Plaka Castle. It’s a steep but short climb, and the panoramic view over the island is *chef’s kiss*. Bring comfy shoes, a bottle of water, and of course your camera.
Boat trip to Kleftiko Beach – Hands down, the highlight of Milos! Kleftiko is only accessible by boat, and it looks like a movie set with towering white cliffs and caves. You can snorkel, swim through caves, and feel like you’re starring in your own Greek odyssey. Check out the top-rated Kleftiko boat trips ➔

Top left: jumping off the rocks at Sarakiniko Beach. Top right: the cliffs at Kleftiko. Bottom left & right: colourful fishing huts at Klima.

Final Tips for Visiting Milos

Always pack reef-safe sunscreen that is at least SPF 50 (the beaches here are pristine and we want to keep them that way!).
Bring a dry bag if you’re doing a boat tour – you’ll thank me later!
Milos is super relaxed. No fancy clothes needed…think breezy dresses, comfy sandals, and a good sunhat.

Milos totally stole my heart, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be planning your return trip before you even leave. If you’re ready to soak up the Greek island magic minus the crazy crowds, Milos is 100% your spot. Happy travels!