One of the most beautiful islands in all of Greece, Milos is also one of its most historic, as it was here that the iconic statue "Venus of Milos" was found in 1820, now on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Today the island is still home to a remarkable Roman Theater, in the village of Tripiti, dating back to the 3rd century BC and still a stage for different performances in the present day. Down the road from Tripiti is the fishing village of Klima, a recommended destination in the afternoon, as it offers beautiful sunset views by its picturesque row of fishermen's houses (the "syrmata") on the seafront, looking very much like Little Venice in Mykonos.
Despite a recent growth in popularity, Milos remains less expensive than Mykonos, Paros, or other of the more famous islands. It was originally a volcano like Santorini, but there are beautiful golden sand beaches (and one of the most unusual beaches anywhere -- see Sarakiniko below).
It’s well connected to nearby islands like Folegandros and Santorini, with ferries arriving at the village of Adamas. That’s where you should look for accommodation, as it’s where you can hop on the buses to several of the beaches and it has a pleasant promenade with several restaurants. Just above Adamas is Plaka, the island’s capital, where you should head up to the hilltop Venetian castle (the Kastro) and its white church (the Church of the Virgin Mary) for a magnificent sunset view.
The Best Beaches in Milos
This small beach's shallow waters make it popular with families. It has sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and several tavernas where you can have meals of fresh local fish. It can be reached by bus from Adamas.
Located on the southern part of the island, this long, organized beach mixes sand and pebbles. It's considered Milos' best beach and one of the easiest to reach by bus from Adamas.
When you arrive at this iconic beach, you feel like you've reached the moon or are suddenly in another planet. Made up of smooth white rock formations sculpted by the wind and with nearly no sand, it's one of those landscapes you have to see to believe. The water that flows between the rocks makes it look like one big pool created by nature, and the rocks are natural sunbeds. It can be reached by bus from Adamas.
Recommended Hotels in Milos
Almyris Hotel
This family-run hotel is just down the street from the main square in Adamas where you catch the bus to the beaches. It’s also around the corner from several waterfront restaurants, and most rooms have either a balcony or terrace.
Golden Milos Hotel
If you want to stay right by the beach, consider this hotel in Provatas. It’s a top choice for couples, with a large pool and modern rooms with sea views.
Hotel Eleni
Located not far from the port in Adamas, this small hotel is within walking distance of the buses that take you to the most popular beaches. It's an excellent value, and the staff does everything to make your stay in Milos a pleasant one.
Hotel Rigas
A perfect choice for families, this hotel close to the restaurant-filled promenade in Adamas is also just a few feet from the tree-lined Papikinou Beach. It's made up of studios and apartments, and it can also arrange babysitting services.
Olea Bay Hotel
Featuring a modern mostly-white design, this hotel offers sea views and a large pool. Many of the rooms have a balcony or terrace, and is recommended for couples.
The White Suites
Just a short walk from the port and the bus terminal, this hotel has mostly-white rooms decorated in a romantic style. It offers sea views, and some of the rooms have a private terrace.
