Milos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands, gaining popularity among international travelers while still retaining its unspoiled charm.
With over 70 beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and the famous Kleftiko caves, there’s plenty to explore. The best places to stay are Pollonia, Plaka, or Adamas, each with its own appeal.
During my five-day stay in Milos, I visited all the major villages and chose to stay in Pollonia at Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel.
The hotel was fantastic—modern rooms, a stunning pool and lounge area, and exceptional food, especially the dinner. The outdoor dining space had a lovely ambiance with tasteful music, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, always ready with great restaurant recommendations. The location was perfect, just an 8-minute walk to Pollonia’s restaurants and shops, in a safe and walkable area where I felt comfortable even at night. Plus, the adorable hotel cat, Cinnamon, made the stay even more special!
Each village in Milos offers something different, and I’ll share my thoughts on the best areas depending on your travel style. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments!
1. Pollonia, best place to stay in Milos for first time
Pollonia is a picturesque fishing village on the northeast coast of Milos, offering the best combination of traditional charm, great restaurants, and easy beach access.
✅ The village has a relaxed, walkable layout centered around a scenic harbor with fishing boats and a sandy beach with calm, shallow water—perfect for families. There’s a fantastic selection of waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, and accommodations range from beachside hotels to newer, spacious villas on the Pelekouda Peninsula, which also has great swimming spots with rocky entrances. Pollonia is quieter than Plaka or Adamas but still has plenty of dining options. It’s also close to Kostantakis Winery, Papafragas Caves, Sarakiniko Beach, and the ferry to Kimolos Island.
❌ It’s farther from some of Milos’ main attractions, and nightlife is limited. While the beachfront hotels are convenient, the best and newest accommodations are slightly away from the main beach.
Best Hotels in Pollonia
- (€€€) Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel
- (€€) Glaronisia Hotel
- (€) Villa Maryelen
2. Adamas, where to stay in Milos for nightlife
Adamas (or Adamantas) is the main port of Milos and the island’s most convenient and lively village, offering great beaches, nightlife, and easy access to top attractions.
✅ Centrally located, Adamas is the best base for exploring Milos, especially for those without a car. It has two sandy, organized beaches—Papikinou and Lagkada—both with shallow, calm water ideal for families. The village is packed with restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the best spot for nightlife on the island. It’s also home to historic sites like the Milos Mining Museum and the 17th-century churches of Agia Triada and Agios Haralambos. Boat tours to Kleftiko and Sikia Cave depart daily from the port.
❌ As the busiest village, Adamas is less picturesque than smaller towns like Pollonia or Plaka. It can be noisier, especially near the waterfront, and while it has a range of accommodations, budget-friendly options book up fast in peak season.
Best Hotels in Adamas
- (€€€) Olea Bay Hotel
- (€€) Santa Maria Village Resort & Spa
- (€) Hotel Eleni
3. Plaka, best place to feel the local vibe
Plaka, the capital of Milos, sits at the island’s highest point, offering breathtaking sunsets, Cycladic charm, and a rich history.
✅ A car-free village with winding alleys, Plaka is perfect for strolling, shopping for local crafts, and dining at traditional tavernas. Must-see attractions include the Venetian Castle (Kastro), the Archaeological Museum, and the beautiful churches of Panagia Korfiatissa and Panagia Thalassitra, both offering stunning views. With a variety of accommodations, it’s a great place to stay for those seeking history, culture, and romantic scenery.
❌ The village’s steep, narrow paths mean lots of uphill walking, and parking can be tricky. Nightlife is laid-back, with sunset cocktails and quiet bars rather than clubs.
Best Hotels in Plaka
- (€€€) Plaka Suites
- (€€) Studios Betty
- (€) Georgia Rooms Milos
4. Klima, best place for your honeymoon
Klima is a postcard-perfect fishing village on the coast near Plaka, known for its colorful boat garages (syrmata) and peaceful, seaside charm.
✅ A top spot for a quiet, romantic getaway, Klima offers stunning sunset views and unique accommodations in converted fishermen’s cottages. The village has a small, sandy beach and one excellent seafood restaurant, Astakas, right on the water. Staying here provides an authentic, laid-back experience, far from the busier villages of Milos.
❌ Klima is very small, with limited dining and accommodation options. A car is highly recommended, as guests will need to drive to Plaka or Trypiti for more restaurants and activities. There’s no nightlife, just serene coastal beauty.
Best Hotels in Klima
- (€€€) Boucaporta Sirma Klima
- (€€) Blue Sea House
- (€€) Fisherman House
FAQ
Where to stay in Milos for first time? Adamas, Pollonia or Plaka?
First-time visitors to Milos should consider staying in one of the island’s three main settlements.
- Adamas, where the ferry port is located, serves as the primary arrival and departure point for most travelers.
- For a quieter atmosphere, especially at night, Pollonia is a great choice, offering a range of hotels, waterfront dining, access to the Kimolos ferry for day trips, and a sandy, organized beach.
- If you prefer a more traditional setting, the inland village of Plaka, perched on a hilltop, features a pedestrian-only core (with the exception of scooters and motorcycles) and is filled with lively tavernas, nightlife, boutique shops, galleries, museums, and castle ruins.
How to get to Milos
Setting sail for Milos from the port of Piraeus is a daily occurrence. This sea journey can take anywhere from 3.5 to 7 hours, often including stops at Serifos and Sifnos. For those in a bit of a rush, there are direct routes that reach Milos in just 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from €39 to €74.70, catering to various budgets.
Once a week, there’s also a ferry from Heraklion port to Milos, taking just under 5 hours, with tickets starting at €59.
Milos is well-connected by sea to other Cycladic islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, and Paros. You can easily find all available ferry schedules and book tickets through this website.
For those preferring to skip the sea voyage, Milos has its own airport. The Milos State Airport, located 9 kilometers from the town of Adamas, welcomes direct flights from Athens.
