Thursday, July 10, 2025
As Greece continues to attract global travelers seeking unforgettable island experiences, Milos is fast becoming the destination of choice for those in search of serenity, authenticity, and dramatic natural beauty. Unlike the bustling crowds and commercial energy of Mykonos, Milos offers a tranquil escape with its untouched volcanic landscapes, iconic white-rock beaches like Sarakiniko, and cultural richness highlighted by the discovery of the Venus de Milo. Its secluded fishing villages, crystal-clear bays, and lack of an airport preserve its peaceful charm, making it the ultimate retreat for those craving a deeper, more meaningful connection with Greece’s natural and historical splendor.
Set amidst the shimmering Aegean Sea, Milos, the Greek island, is slowly being uncovered as the serene yet beautiful alternative to the fabled party capital Mykonos. While Mykonos continues to appeal to millions of tourists each year with its booming club culture and postcard-perfect beaches, Milos offers the more earthy, organic experience increasingly capturing the hearts of discerning tourists—primarily those from the UK who take the road less traveled.
Mykonos: Cycladic favourite bursting at the seams
Part of the Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos has long reigned as one of the top Greek destinations. With its bustling beach clubs like Paradise and Super Paradise, historic windmills, luxury hotels, and cobbled streets, the island accommodates over 1.5 million visitors annually. A further 1.2 million arrive via cruise ships, overwhelming its small local population of just 11,000 residents. Direct flights from major UK cities such as London and Manchester have only made the island more accessible to international tourists.
While Mykonos is undeniably charming, the island’s surging popularity and busy environment have caused some tourists to seek more peaceful alternatives. That’s where Milos quietly steps to the forefront.
Milos: The Cycladic Island That’s Worth the Trip
Milos doesn’t have direct flights from the UK, but its charm is in the fact that getting to it involves some exertion. The trip usually entails flying in to Athens and then taking the ferry for 2.5 to 7.5 hours depending on the conditions. But for those willing to make the journey, Milos pays back with virgin beauty, peaceful beaches, and cultural heritage.
Demand for Milos has shot up over the last month, with bookings increasing by over 500% in just one month. That’s because more tourists, and in particular Brits, are seeking quieter locales with genuine Greek essence but without the sacrifice of natural beauty and quality hospitality.
Natural Wonders Shaped by Fire and Time
Milos is a volcanic island, and its dramatic geography is a major draw for visitors. The island’s coastline is a mosaic of sea caves, hidden coves, and beaches ranging from pristine white to deep red hues. Among the most iconic is Sarakiniko Beach, famed for its moon-like white rock formations and glistening turquoise waters. The smooth, sculpted landscape looks almost otherworldly, attracting photographers, hikers, and beach lovers alike.
Another must-see destination is Kleftiko, once a pirate’s retreat protected by high white cliffs and only being accessed by boat. The vicinity’s olive green waters, submarine caves, and coves suitable for snorkeling make it one of the more magical experiences found in the Aegean.
A Cultural Treasure Trove
Apart from its natural beauty, Milos has abundant history. It was in Milos in 1820 where a destitute peasant named Georgios Kentrotas found the one that would turn out to be one of the world’s most famous works of sculpture—at least, the Venus de Milo. The statue, now housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, was found to be a masterpiece by French naval officer Jules Dumont d’Urville during one relaxed visit to the island. The discovery to date brings Milos in touch with world art history.
The island also boasts ancient ruins, early Christian catacombs, and an archaeological museum, providing the visitor with insight into its many-layered history. Milos’s fishing communities, like Klima and Mandrakia, with brightly painted houses and quiet harbors, provide yet another aspect of the island’s allure.
Getting There: Time and Travel Advice
The peak season to tour Milos is from late May to early September, with the ferries being more frequent and the waters being smooth. Although the trip might appear intimidating in the beginning, tourists can simply reserve a connecting flight to Athens and high-speed ferry from the likes of SeaJets or Hellenic Seaways.
For a smoother experience, overnight stays in Athens before catching a morning ferry are recommended. This allows for some urban exploration and a relaxed pace before embarking on your island escape.
Milos is emerging as Greece’s ultimate hidden gem, offering untouched beauty, rich heritage, and peaceful seclusion—making it the perfect alternative to the overcrowded and commercialized Mykonos.
Final Thought: Worth the Effort
While Mykonos remains the magnet for those in search of high-octane glamour, Milos is slowly but surely gaining popularity as the ultimate retreat for those in search of tranquillity, authenticity, and raw natural beauty. That it has no airport and no frenetic party scene has put off some, but to others, these same factors make Milos the ultimate undiscovered paradise. In an increasingly over-toured world, Milos excels not necessarily for what it has, but by what it refrains from—mass commercialization. And that makes all the difference.
