Milos, one of the Cyclades islands, has become quite the destination in Greece. It was quite a shock for me coming from the tranquil islands of Sifnos and then Koufonisia to arrive at busy Milos with its many tourists. I still enjoyed it, but because of the crowds, not as much as the other two islands. There were beautiful beaches and beautiful rock formations, but I just didn’t find that the food measured up to the islands I had just come from. It felt like a place that catered to tourists more than it preserved the local culture, but there are some things like the cliffs of Kleftiko that made visiting this island worthwhile, so here are my suggestions for the best things to do in Milos.

The Best Things To Do In Milos, Greece

1. Visit The Plaka At Sunset

Roaming around the Plaka, the capital, on Milos is a fun activity no matter what time you go, but sunset adds that special magic to this spot. Let yourself get lost among the winding streets. Blue doors, whitewashed buildings, and golden light make for epic photo scenes. Watch the sunset from the Panagia Korphiatissa church or Plaka castle, then have a romantic dinner in one of the many restaurants, or have a casual meal at my favorite souvlaki spot in Milos, Vlahos Souvlaki.

2.  Visit The Sand Museum In The Plaka

The sand museum is a quirky stop where you can see sand from all over the world and even look at it under a microscope. Artemis, the owner, is an interesting geologist, and is a great man to talk to with many stories. He also makes souvenirs with the sand from Milos. It’s a fun experience and worth a stop when you’re in the Plaka.

3. Take A Boat To The Cliffs of Kleftiko

The towering white cliffs of Kleftiko are absolutely breathtaking and are the highlight of things to do in Milos. I was astounded by them, and pictures really don’t do them or the beautiful blue waters justice. The cliffs create beautiful caves which you will get the chance to snorkel in. These cliffs have been the hideout of many pirates, and they hold many stories. These kind of places are what Greece is all about.

4. Visit The Lunar Beach Paradise Of Sarakiniko Beach

The lunar beach paradise of Sarakiniko Beach, also known as Moon Beach, is one you won’t find anywhere else in the world other than on Milos. The setting is otherworldly with beautiful scenery everywhere you look. There are beautiful views of the coastline, and a cave that you can walk through. I didn’t find I wanted to be there as long as the bus takes to pick you up, so, I hailed a taxi that was dropping off others. You may want to rent a car for this or time taking a taxi there and the bus back. Make sure to go early to avoid the crowds. It’s a popular place.

5. Dine Along The Waterfront At Nostos Seafood Experience

Stunning views of the Aegan sea and incredible food make for a lovely meal at Nostos Seafood Experience. Local goat cheese with the pumpkin spoon sweet over a fennel salad and fennel pollen was a perfect way to start the evening. The milk pie dessert with rum raisin ice cream ending was just sinful. Make a reservation, as this is a popular place.

6. Visit Firiplaka Beach

Firiplaka Beach was my favorite beach of the trip!  Blue and green crystalline waters were surrounded by cliffs of so many different colors. I climbed over some big rocks in the water to get to the part of the beach that I had almost to myself. Where others had come and created sculptures from the many stones. I was surrounded by living art and the cliffs brought me a peace and calm that was just the thing I needed to relax. It’s definitely one of the things to do in Milos that you shouldn’t miss. You can reach this beach by bus which will drop you off at the top, and from there it’s just a 15 minute walk down the mountain. Also, if beaches are the highlight of Greece for you, make sure to visit Koufonisia Island for some of the most glorious beaches you will ever visit.

7. Stop For Ice Cream At Aggeliki Ice Cream Shop

Aggeliki Ice Cream had excellent gelato and desserts. They also had a great breakfast which I often ended with an affogato. I just might have eaten gelato here every day on my visit to Milos.

8. Go Cat Watching

Cat watching is a lot like bird watching, except you don’t need binoculars, since cats are EVERYWHERE in Milos. You can’t miss them. But, seriously, they are so adorable, and going on a “cat walk” makes for a perfect thing to add to your itinerary of things to do in Milos.