Milos

Birthplace of the Venus de Milo, with Sarakiniko's moonlike white rocks, the sea caves of Kleftiko and colorful fishermen's houses — in recent years one of the most sought-after Greek islands among European and American travelers.

Milos lies in the southwest of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea. It is a horseshoe-shaped volcanic island wrapped around the Gulf of Milos, which cuts deep inland. The Venus de Milo was unearthed here in 1820, making the island's name famous worldwide. Volcanic activity left behind white pumice, red and yellow sulfur rock, basalt columns and multicolored coastlines, and the island has around 70 beaches. In recent years it has become a favorite "off-the-beaten-path" Greek island for European and American visitors.

Areas: the north coast (Sarakiniko, Mandrakia, Firopotamos, Papafragas) is known for its white rocks and fishing villages; the Plaka–Tripiti–Klima area is the capital and historic quarter, for sunsets, the ancient theater and the catacombs; the south coast (Firiplaka, Tsigrado, Paliochori) has big sandy beaches and colorful cliffs; the western half of the island is sparsely populated, and Kleftiko and the Sykia Cave are mainly visited by boat. From Pollonia in the northeast, small boats run to Kimolos.

Seasons: the tourist season runs May–Oct. July and August are the hottest and most expensive months for accommodation, while in June and September the sea is already warm and crowds are thinner. The strong north wind (meltemi) often blows in summer — when the north coast is rough, head to the southern beaches. Boat tours may also be canceled due to wind, so build a spare day into your itinerary. In winter most hotels and restaurants close.

Getting there: fast ferries from Athens' port of Piraeus take about 3–4 hours, conventional ferries about 7 hours; there are also short flights from Athens to Milos (about 45 minutes). Bus service on the island is limited, so renting a car or ATV is strongly recommended — many beaches are reached by dirt roads. Adamas is the most convenient base, while Plaka and Pollonia have more charm. Allow 3–5 days, including one day for a sailing trip around the island.

Good to know: most beaches have little shade, so bring a sun hat and plenty of water; cliff jumping and climbing down to beaches by rope should be done within your limits; in high season, book accommodation and car rentals several months ahead.

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Itineraries