There is a little-known Greek Island with lunar landscapes, and beautiful boutique lodgings, famous for its seafood restaurants, quaint and uncrowded downtowns, interesting history, and the best waters in Greece….it is called Milos, and it belongs to the Cyclades islands.

If you want to see the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean gathered in one place, then you will have to visit Milos which has over 75 small and large beaches, each one different from the others.

Milos is the southwesternmost island in the Cyclades. Like its famous neighbor Santorini, Milos rose out of the Aegean Sea in the midst of earthquakes, tsunamis, and submarine volcanic eruptions and it is equivalent beautiful.

Let us inspire you with what you should do while you are in Milos:

Explore Plaka

Plaka, the capital of Milos island, is a charming and well-preserved small-town sprawled on the highest hill on the Greek island. No cars can enter the village because of the narrow spaces between walls and buildings. Motorbikes, Mopeds, and the like are the only usable vehicles but it is best to explore it on foot. For magical sunsets, pick a table at one of the many cafes with a view and enjoy your cocktail as you see the sun setting and the boats on the horizon. Alternatively, climb to the Castle. It is located in Plaka, and you may get tired of the several steps, but when you reach the top, the incredible view will compensate you. Before leaving Plaka, check out the museum that houses a copy of Aphrodite of Milos.

While you are here you may also want to…

  • Explore the Narrow Streets
    Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Plaka, lined with whitewashed houses and colorful bougainvillea. Each turn reveals quaint cafes, artisan shops, and picturesque corners perfect for photos.
  • Admire the Panagia Korfiatissa Church
    Visit this beautiful church located at one of the highest points in Plaka. Enjoy the stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the sunset.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine
    Savor traditional Greek dishes at one of the many local tavernas. Try local specialties like pitarakia (cheese pies) and koufeto (a dessert made with almonds and honey).
  • Shop for Souvenirs
    Browse through the unique shops in Plaka offering handmade jewelry, pottery, and other crafts. It’s a great place to find special gifts and mementos.
  • Enjoy the View from Plaka Castle
    Walk up to the remains of Plaka Castle for a breathtaking view of the island, especially beautiful during sunset.
  • Relax at Utopia Cafe
    End your day with a drink at Utopia Cafe, enjoying one of the best views of the sunset over the Aegean Sea.

 

Go underground-Visit The Catacombs Of Tripiti Village

The Catacombs of Milos, dating from the 1st – 5th century, are among the three most imperative of the 74 found around the world, along with the catacombs of Rome and the Holy Land. The Catacombs of Milos might even be older than the ones of Rome. The Catacombs of Milos are considered to be the most important early Christian monument of worship in all of Greece.

And since you are at Tripiti Village, you may tempt yourself to…

  • Discover the Ancient Theater of Milos
    Admire this well-preserved Roman theater with stunning views of the sea. It’s a short walk from the village and a perfect spot for history buffs and photographers.
  • Explore the Windmills
    Walk around the picturesque windmills that dot the landscape of Tripiti. Some have been converted into charming accommodations offering unique views of the island.
  • Walk to Klima
    Stroll down to the colorful fishing village of Klima, famous for its syrmata (boat houses) with vibrant doors. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and beautiful photos.
  • Explore the Ancient Settlement of Phylakopi
    Visit the archaeological site of Phylakopi to see remnants of one of the major cities of the prehistoric Aegean, offering insights into the ancient civilization of Milos.
  • Relax at the Beaches
    Head to nearby beaches like Plathiena and Firopotamos for a day of relaxation by the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and the natural beauty of the coastline.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine
    Dine at one of the traditional tavernas in Tripiti, sampling local dishes like fresh seafood, pitarakia, and skordalia. Enjoy the hospitality and delicious flavors of Milos.

Go West

Rent a car (4×4 even better) and drive to the western part of the island. The route is scenic and ends at the beaches of Ammoudaraki, Triades, and Ai Giannis. They are all with fine light sand and crystal clear waters. Along the way, you have to make a stop at the church of Agia Marina for great views and return for lunch or dinner at Empourio – this is the name of the area, but also of the tavern which has a pier on the sea. Here you will taste local goat meat (the island’s specialty) and steaks, among others. End the day at Triades for its famous sunset.

Visit The Venus Of Milos Site And The Ancient Theatre

In Trypiti there is an ancient Roman theater and several ruins. Nearby is the ancient city of Milos. One of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture, The Venus de Milo (Greek: Αφροδίτη της Μήλου), now thought to be the work of Alexandros of Antioch, and created sometime between 130 and 100 BC, was discovered on 8 April 1820 by a peasant named Yorgos Kentrotas, inside a buried niche within the ancient city ruins of Milos. Milos is the current village of Trypiti. The ancient Greek goddess associated with love, beauty, pleasure, and passion couldn’t have a more suitable background than stunning and mesmerizing Milos island.
In Klima, located just below, visit the famous colorful “Sirmata,” which are also found in Kimolos. These are caves dug in the rock where fishermen put their boats to protect them from the waves and the weather.

Beach hopping

If you just need one reason to visit Milos then it is for its beaches. There are beaches for all tastes and all weather. For example, when it blows north, one can move to the south, which will be calm. The beaches around Adamada’s Bay are relatively shallow and sandy. The western ones are approached only by boat. Don’t leave the island without visiting at least some of these postcard-perfect beaches:

  • In the Northeast part of the island, you will find the most photographed Aegean landscape: Sarakiniko beach. Waves driven by north winds shape the greyish-white volcanic rock into amazing shapes, and the area is often compared to a moonscape. Local tip: visit the beach under a full moon for Instagram perfect-out of this world photos!
  • Kleftiko beach or else “The Meteora Rocks of the Sea”, as it is usually called, consists of a group of grey-white rocks of strange shapes and formations, with caves and cavities created by the wind and the sea during the centuries. To enjoy its crystal blue-green waters and its unique formations you will have to approach by boat or by yacht. In old times Kleftiko was used as a refuge and a hide-out for pirates and thus it was named after them.
  • Pollonia Beach or Apollonia is a picturesque fish village of 300 inhabitants, built around a pretty beach on the northeast edge of the island and its sandy beach is ideal for small children. Pollonia is the island’s second port after the port of Adamantas. Possibly, it was named after the temple of Apollo that existed on the Lighthouse of Pelekouda (on the left side of the settlement).
  • For families, Provatas Beach is the ideal spot to spend your day, due to its swallow crystalline waters and its easy access. It is organized with deck chairs and parasols and there are restaurants and cafes nearby. Provatas lies on the south seaside of Milos, located between the beaches of Firiplaka and Kipos.
  • Tsigrado beach. Only 14km from Plaka, Tsigrado is not for the faint of heart unless you reach it by sea. Nestled between cliffs on the southern coast of the island, Tsigrado is best known for the difficulty it takes to get to it. The process of climbing down is a combination of rope and ladder components placed precariously inside a narrow crevasse of the cliff but that difficulty makes it even more secluded if you are searching for peace.
  • Papafragas beach is in fact a sea cave, which was used in the past as a pirate base. The beach got its name from the franc Priest who used the cave to moor his boat. When you arrive at Papafragas beach, you’ll find an allocated car parking area at the top of the cliffs.
    Parking is free and there is access to the beach via a set of stairs cut into the cliffside.

Food-Food-Food

Milos’s gastronomy is diverse and always fresh. The organic local ingredients, plentiful taverns, fresh fish, and variety of dishes will excite you and your senses. Because the island is volcanic and rocky, the local dairy products are of high quality. Try the traditional flavors of Milos, such as the “pita rakia” (dough that folds in 2 in a “D” shape) with a filling of local cheese, onion, mint, and sun-dried tomato.

And since we are talking about authentic local gastronomy, we are highly recommending the following restaurants/tavernas:

1. O Hamos!

  • Cuisine: Traditional Greek
  • What to Try: The Moussaka and Lamb with potatoes are favorites, but don’t miss their fresh seafood platters and local wine.

2. Alevromoutsos

  • Cuisine: Seafood and Mediterranean
  • What to Try: The grilled octopus and seafood risotto are exceptional. Pair it with a glass of local white wine.

3. Medusa

  • Cuisine: Traditional Greek
  • What to Try: The stuffed zucchini flowers and lamb in lemon sauce are must-tries. Enjoy it with a view of the sea.

4. Gialos

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean and Seafood
  • What to Try: Go for the fried calamari and their fresh catch of the day. The saganaki (fried cheese) is also a great appetizer.

5. To Kati Allo

  • Cuisine: Greek Tavern
  • What to Try: The vegetable pies and grilled meats are delicious. Try their traditional Greek salad for a fresh side.

6. Xo Cheese & Wine Bar

  • Cuisine: Cheese and Wine
  • What to Try: Sample their local cheeses with a wine flight. The cheese platter is a great way to taste various local varieties.

7. Sirocco

  • Cuisine: Greek and Mediterranean
  • What to Try: The seafood spaghetti and grilled fish are highly recommended. Don’t skip their homemade desserts!

8. Drougas

  • Cuisine: Traditional Greek
  • What to Try: The roasted goat and Milos-style dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) are local specialties.

9. Kri Kri

  • Cuisine: Greek Tavern
  • What to Try: The grilled meats and seafood dishes are fantastic. Make sure to try their fava (split pea puree).

10. Milos Breeze

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean with a twist
  • What to Try: Their Mediterranean salad and pasta with seafood are refreshing choices. Enjoy the sunset view!

Tips for Dining in Milos

  • Fresh Seafood: Always opt for the daily catch if you’re a seafood lover.
  • Local Specialties: Don’t miss trying local dishes like pitarakia (cheese pies) and kappari (caper).
  • Reservations: During peak season, it’s wise to make reservations, especially at popular spots.

Enjoy the culinary delights of Milos! Each restaurant offers a unique taste of the island’s rich flavors and hospitality.