Milos is a gorgeous island famed for its moonscape beaches, but it also has a charming hilltop town, pristine beaches, and a variety of unique landmarks. Figuring out where to stay in Milos is easy if you’re comfortable renting a car.
Located near Plaka and a few steps from some of the most popular attractions, Tripiti is one of the best places to stay in Milos. It’s also home to some historic attractions, like the Ancient Theater and Catacombs of Milos.
Plaka
Originally built to deter pirates, this village is an absolute must-see. With its narrow passageways and winding streets, it feels like an open-air museum and a great place to wander around. The architecture is pretty Cycladic and you’ll find lots of traditional taverns, cafes, and bars.
Another popular attraction is the ruins of the Venetian castle. The hike up to it is very rewarding and the views are incredible! Make sure to bring water and try to go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun’s full strength. Also, keep in mind that the trails are not marked and there’s little to no cell reception on this side of Milos!
The town of Plaka is also home to the Folklore Museum, located in a charming old house. This small museum offers an intriguing look into local life, with interesting collections of objects that have been used throughout the centuries. The collection is arranged by room in the house, so it gives visitors a feel for what life was like in Milos long ago.
On the outskirts of the village, you can also visit the Archaeological Museum, which is home to a beautiful copy of the Aphrodite of Milos statue. There’s also the Sand Museum, which compares sand samples from different beaches across the world.
While many people choose to stay in Adamas or Pollonia, you can easily get to Plaka by bus from either of these locations. The buses cost less than two euros and leave several times per day. Just be sure to check the latest timetables because they tend to change often.
Pollonia
Located on the northeast side of Milos, Pollonia is much quieter than Adamas and offers waterfront dining, a ferry to the smaller island of Kimolos for day trips, and a sandy beach. The town is also home to budget studios, family apartments and luxury suites that cater to every type of traveler.
The biggest attraction in this lovely village is its beautiful, organized beach. It is a great place for kids to run around, and the water is warm enough for all ages to swim safely. The large swath of sand also offers plenty of shade thanks to the tamarisk trees that line the shoreline.
Another top thing to do in Pollonia is visit the quaint Holy Naidrio of Agia Paraskevi. A short walk from the beach brings you to this stunning church, which features gorgeous white and blue details, and a courtyard that overlooks the sea. The interior is equally gorgeous, with a stunning crystal chandelier and historic murals.
For a luxury experience in Pollonia, consider staying at the upscale Melian Boutique Hotel and Spa. The hotel offers luxurious suites that feature a Jacuzzi hot tub and a private terrace with unobstructed views of the bay. The property is also well-equipped with a variety of facilities, including an onsite restaurant, spa and bar.
For a more affordable stay in Pollonia, book a room at Captain Stavros Studios. Each of these charming rooms comes with a kitchenette, comfy queen bed and cozy modern creamy beige decor. You can also enjoy beautiful waterfront views from your balcony or the rooftop terrace. The property is also a short walk to Pollonia’s inner harbour and ferries to the island of Kimolos.
Adamantas
The largest village in the western part of the island, Adamantas has all of the basics at your fingertips including a large grocery store, boutique hotels and hostels, and restaurants. This is a good option for people who value convenience and are on a budget. Guests also enjoy easy access to Pollonia and the beaches in the north.
Another great feature of the Adamantas area is its unique Airbnbs, many of which were once fishing huts on the island. These have been transformed into stunning holiday rentals that overlook the sea. They also offer an intimate feel and are some of the best places to stay in Milos.
The port town of Adamas is a lively and popular place to stay for its buzzing bars, tavernas, cafes, and restaurant. It is especially vibrant during the summer months when a lot of locals and visitors come to enjoy the atmosphere. There are plenty of places to go for drinks and dinner, like Utopia Cocktail Bar, Fiki Cocktail Bar, Akri Cocktail Bar, and Mavros Xoiros, and there are even a few tour shops that offer different boat trips around the island.
There are buses that run from Adamas to most beaches and other attractions on the island, but it is best if you rent a car to fully explore Milos. This way, you can visit remote beaches and villages without having to rely on buses, which are less frequent in the off season. Also, renting a car will allow you to explore the hidden gems that lie beyond the main towns and villages. If you’re interested in renting a car, check out our Milos car rental guide for more information.
Klima
A small seaside village, Klima is a peaceful destination for travelers looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist areas. It’s home to a lovely beach and great hotels with stunning views of the sea and coastline. There’s also a beautiful church, a museum and lots of restaurants and bars with great local seafood on the menu.
The secluded and calm vibe in this village makes it ideal for families with kids or couples who want to relax on the beach and take in the incredible views. There are also some wonderful cafes and tavernas in the center of the town where you can sit back with a drink and watch the sunset.
There are a few accommodation options in Klima, including the enchanting Windmill Karamitsos, which has been beautifully converted into apartments and is one of the most unique places to stay on Milos. Another is Vasealis & Seafis Sirma, which has been remastered with modern amenities and offers a choice of either ground floor or upper floor apartments that open straight onto the beach.
Other accommodation choices in Klima include the family-friendly Hotel Milo Milo Suites, which has beautiful suites that offer amazing sea views. The beachfront restaurant in this hotel is one of the best on the island and serves up fresh, delicious seafood dishes in a gorgeous setting.
If you’re planning to visit Milos, make sure that you book your flight and accommodations well in advance. The island is popular and the best accommodation options can fill up quickly during peak season. Luckily, there are plenty of other great places to stay on the island so you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
Firopotomas
For the discerning traveler, the enchanted island of Milos beckons with a collection of luxury suites and villas that exude elegance. These homes feature the finest in modern amenities and designer touches, a welcome retreat from the crowds of Milos’ more popular vacation spots. Some also offer incredible views, like the dreamboathouse rental that overlooks the sublime beach of Kleftiko and a kaleidoscope of beaches, including moonlike Sarakiniko, copper-colored Fyriplaka, the swim holes in the Papafragas Caves, and more.
Those on a budget will find plenty of affordable hotels and apartments to choose from in Adamantas, the capital of Milos. The spirited capital of Plaka offers a bit more charm and authenticity than Adamantas, with a slew of tavernas and lounge bars (some with live music) in its compact core. Enjoy the sunset from the hilltop vantage point of Plaka’s Utopia Caffe, dine on local dishes at Mavros Xoiros or Avli-Milos, and grab drinks or a nightcap in verdant surroundings at Utopia Bar.
Unique Airbnbs can be found throughout Milos, particularly in the quaint fishing villages of Klima and Mandrakia. These former syrma—fishing huts—now house stylish, stand-alone suites that are not attached to any hotel. Other options include the upscale, yet family-friendly Delmar Apartments & Suites in Adamantas, which features modern apartments with kitchenettes and the best panoramic sea views on the island. Those without a car should consider staying in Adamantas or Pollonia, as both have frequent bus routes connecting to the island’s top beaches and historic sites. The harbor town of Adamantas is the hub for retail and restaurants, as well as the majority of hotels that operate more like guesthouses. Ferries dock here, as do local boats and cruise ships.