The island of Milos has unique natural beauty and is recognized by the Greeks as the pearl of the Aegean Sea. Residents of the country and tourists talk about this resort with sincere enthusiasm. Many people know about this corner of Greece, because it is here that a unique statue of the goddess Venus of Milo was found, which is now displayed as an exhibit in the Louvre.
General information
Greek Milos is one of the more than 200 islands of the Cyclades archipelago, located in its southwestern part. It covers an area of 16.2 km. sq. m. There are slightly less than 5,000 permanent residents on the island.
Milos has a volcanic origin and today its characteristic geographical features are the bizarre shape of the rocks with colorful rocks. At the same time, the vegetation on the island is quite sparse, and the western part of the island is completely wild: there are no people living here, only a couple of unpaved roads.
Interesting to know! Milos is one of two active volcanoes in Greece.
Milos has charming sunsets, natural caves, picturesque cliffs, the purest sea with beautiful (though not always comfortable) beaches and, of course, a rich heritage of ancient Cycladic architecture. Despite these advantages, Milos is not very popular with tourists, which attracts independent travelers.
How to get there
The island of Milos in Greece is located at a distance of 160 km from the major port of Piraeus. Sea traffic does not stop even in winter.
From Athens, you can get to Milos by boat or ferry, services are provided by several companies at once. The journey takes about 3.5-6 hours, during which time the ferry makes several stops that allow you to admire the beauty of the Aegean Sea. During the summer season, the number of ferry flights increases, as the flow of tourists increases. Additionally, flights to the islands of the Cycladic archipelago are provided. You need to know the schedule in advance, and you can book tickets online on one of the carriers ‘ websites.:
- www.seajets.gr
- www.minoan.gr
- www.zanteferries.gr
- www.bluestarferries.com
- https://aegeanspeedlines.gr
- https://goldenstarferries.gr
Milos has an airport that accepts flights from Athens all year round, and charter flights arrive here during the warmer months.
Island attractions
There are many beaches on the island, but this is not the only reason to visit Milos in Greece.
All ferries from other parts of the country arrive at the port of Adamantas. In the city, tourists are offered sightseeing tours to different points of the island, as well as sea cruises around Milos.
Kleftiko Bay
Perhaps the most vivid impressions are caused by a yacht excursion to Kleftiko Bay, located in the south-west of the island. The bay is notable for its snow-white rocks and a cave that served as a refuge for pirates.
You can also get to the bay on your own by land, but to do this, you will have to complete a small quest – rent an SUV or ATV, drive part of the way off-road, and then walk for another 40-60 minutes. Learn more in the video at the bottom of the page.
Plaka City
The capital of the island – the city of Plaka-is located at an altitude of more than two hundred meters above sea level. From its height, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bay. The Crusader Castle, which is located near the Church of Our Lady of Thalassitra, is considered a bright attraction of the city.
The ruins of the ancient settlement of Melos are located south of Plaka. The remains of a Roman theater and temple are preserved here. In 1820, the same statue of Venus was found in the ruins of the city, which can now be seen in the Louvre in Paris.
Natural caves
The island’s caves deserve a separate narrative. Sykia is the most unusual cave located in the western part of Milos. Yachts and ships from Adamantas regularly come here, and there is also a road from St. John’s Church.
The most visited place is a cave formed by four rocks. Excursions are brought here from Adamantas.
In the south direction of Milos, the island of Antimilos is located, where rare donkeys are bred.
Churches of the Island of Milos
- Agios Nikolaos in Adamant – there is a museum attached to the church.
- St. Kharlampy in Adamant-the oldest icons of the Byzantine era are kept here.
- Panagia Corifiatissa in Plaka-built in 1810, it offers a magical view of the bay.
- Panagia ton Rodon or Rosary-the temple is decorated in the French style.
- The most picturesque temple on the island is Panagia Falassitra. Often in the photo of the island of Milos in Greece, you can often see this particular church.
- St. Harlampius in Plakesos is famous for its ancient, beautiful frescoes and murals.
- Agios Spyridonas in the village of Triovassalos-a theatrical performance is held here at Easter, during which a Judas doll is burned.
- Profiti Ilias (Prophet Elijah) in the village of Klima is notable for its marble foundation.
- Panagia Portiani in the village of Zephyria – in the past, the church was a metropolitan Cathedral, today it is under the protection of the Greek Ministry of Culture.
Milos Island Museums
- Archaeological Museum. It is located on the central square of the island’s capital. The exhibits include sculptures, ancient weapons, ceramics, and jewelry. Admission is 2 euros.
- Church museum. The collection of exhibits includes ancient Byzantine icons, rich church attire and unique relics. Admission is free.
- Folklore Museum. Located on the central square of the capital in a building of the XIX century. Exhibits – household items and folk art products that demonstrate the culture and customs of the Greek people. Admission is 4 euros.
- Museum of the Mining Industry. Here tourists are clearly shown how industry developed on the island, namely, the extraction of marble, ceramics,and ore. Admission is 4 euros.
- Maritime Museum. Here you can find a private collection of nautical instruments, books, maps, and gear. There are exhibits from the time of the ancient battle.
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Villages on the island
Firopotamos
A picturesque fishing village on Milos in Greece, located in a quiet bay protected by rocks. There are very few people here. And a few hotels look like real fishing lodges. Firopotamos beach is clean, without waves, and the color of the water is especially pleasing to the eye.
Klima
Klima is the largest fishing village. A colorful place where houses are built at the water’s edge, the first floors of buildings are used as garages for boats. The doors and balconies of the houses are painted in different colors, making the whole village look bright and attractive. You should come here to take colorful photos.
Plaka
The village of Plaka seems to be glued to the mountainside, its appearance is most reminiscent of traditional Greece – white houses with blue doors and shutters decorated with flowers. At the top of the village is a Venetian temple and offers a picturesque view of the Gulf of Milo. The island’s capital, Milos, is best explored by simply strolling through the narrow streets.
Tripiti
Previously, artisans lived here, today tourists visit the ancient Christian cemetery in the settlement – a maze of numerous passages in the cave.
The village has a convenient sandy beach, and a wide selection of restaurants, cafes and hotels. Tripiti also has a lot to see: the catacombs of Milo, the ruins of an ancient theater, the Church of St. Nicholas and the windmills on the outskirts. If desired, all the sights can be bypassed on foot.
Beaches
Milos is famous for its comfortable beaches, there are more than 70 of them throughout the island. Most of the beaches were created as a result of volcanic activity. If the wind blows from the north, the ideal beaches for recreation are Firiplaka, Tsigrado, Paleochori, Ayia Kyriaki. With a southerly wind, it is better to relax on the beaches of Sarakiniko, Mitakas and Firopotamos.
Firopotamos. It is located in the village of the same name, where yachtsmen and fishermen often gather. The beach is convenient for recreation, there is a developed infrastructure and there are trees that create shade.
Sarakino. One of the most beautiful beaches. It is located in a bay that was previously used by pirates. Snow-white rocks hang over the beach. It is almost impossible to hide in the shade here, this place is loved by romantic couples.
Paleochori. One of the most visited beaches. Soft, fine sand is surrounded by colorful rocks. Sun loungers and umbrellas are provided, and a windsurfing center is available.
Firiplaka. Families with children like to relax on this beach. Located in the southern part of the island, there are almost never waves and gusts of wind. The coast is formed by multi-colored rocks.
Aya Kiriyaki. A picturesque beach with a wide coastline and clear water, surrounded by rocks. There are many cafes and restaurants nearby. This beach gives the impression of a secluded place.
Papafragas. The beach is located in a tiny bay, the coastal strip is also small, cozy. Getting here is quite difficult, because the descent is steep and narrow. But, having come all this way, you will be rewarded with an amazing view.
Climate and weather
The island has a traditional Mediterranean climate. It is hot and dry in summer, and mild and rainy in winter.
In summer, the island is visited by the refreshing north wind Meltemi. This is a seasonal phenomenon that begins in the second half of July and lasts until the end of August. Thus, in the hottest season on Milos, there is no sweltering heat.
The best time to explore how to get to Milos in Greece is between Easter and early September. In May, the average temperature is +21 … +23 degrees, the water in the sea warms up to +18 … +19 degrees. In the hottest months – July-August – the air warms up to +30 degrees, and the water-up to +26 degrees.
If you ever watched the movie “Pelican”, you probably remember the fabulous Greek landscapes. It was the Island of Milos that became the place where the film was shot. Another reason to visit the resort is its shape. Milos is like a horseshoe, perhaps a trip here will bring you happiness and good luck.
