The outdoor courtyard and pool at one of my favorite stays in Milos.
Milos might be the most dramatic island in the Cyclades, and one of the most unique in terms of experience depending on where you choose to base yourself. Between the lunar-white cliffs of Sarakiniko, the red rocks of Firiplaka, the bustling center of Plaka, and the colorful fishing villages tucked into hidden coves, your visit can feel completely different based on the location and time of year.
Where Paros has variety in hotels and Naxos has plenty of villas and boutique gems, Milos shines in unique Airbnb stays and curated hotel experiences. Each stay I’ve had here has given me a different impression of the island; and I find myself truly spending time in the pocket that I’ve chosen for the trip.
The island also has notably fewer hotels and villa options than other Cycladic islands, so I recommend booking your stay in Milos as far in advance as possible (more than 6 months is ideal). Keeping that limitation in mind, these recommendations center around some of the most popular on the island as well as some lesser-known stays that tend to be available if you’re planning your trip more last minute.
Milos’ Best Stays
TOP PICK | Captain Zeppos
The boutique hotel in the heart of Pollonia town. Design-forward rooms and suites, easy beach access, and restaurants on your doorstep.
BEST LUXURY HOTEL | Eréma, a Member of Design Hotels
A brand-new 41-suite retreat on the southeastern coast near Provatas Beach, every suite with its own private pool and unobstructed Aegean views.
BEST SUITES | Phos Villas
Clean, modern suites with private pools a short walk into Pollonia town. Great for couples and families.
Take a dip right into the sea from the swim platform at Captain Zeppos.
Trendy design and cozy nooks at one of Pollonia’s top hotels, Captain Zeppos.
The beach in Pollonia, my favorite area to stay on Milos.
Where to Stay on Milos by Area
Based on the vibe you’re looking for, here’s my quick summary of how to choose where to stay on Milos: stay in Pollonia if you want a seaside town with the best restaurants and easy access to popular beaches like Sarakiniko, Plaka if you want to be based in the island’s charming capital with the most shops and dining variety, the South Coast if your priority is dramatic beaches like Paliochori and Firiplaka, and the Fishing Villages (Klima, Mandrakia, Firopotamos) if you want the most authentic, off-the-beaten-path stay on the island.
Pollonia – For a seaside town with the best restaurants and easy nearby beach access. (Stay: Captain Zeppos)
Plaka – For the island’s charming capital, with the widest variety of shops, cafes and dinner spots. (Stay: Plaka Suites)
South Coast – For dramatic beaches like Paliochori and Firiplaka that are easy to spend a day at. (Stay: Eréma, a Member of Design Hotels)
The Fishing Villages – For the most authentic, traditional stay on the island, in a converted boat house. (Stay: Anemosyrma or Thavma Milos)
Read Post: The Complete Milos, Greece Guide
A bedroom at Phos Villas, a great property pick just a short walk from Pollonia town.
Outdoor private plunge pools at Phos Villas are great for families.
My Top Choice For Where to Stay on Milos
I love staying in Pollonia. While there are pros to staying in many different parts of Milos, there’s something about this small seaside town that draws me back each time I visit. Between the restaurants with dining tables on the sand, the swimmable and calm beach, and the general vibe (busy but never too crowded; a mix of fine dining and casual restaurants), it’s my favorite part of the island to recommend.
That said, there is so much to discover on Milos, and having two points to explore from gives you a completely different perspective. Pairing a stay in Pollonia with a few nights in Plaka for restaurants and energy, the south side for dramatic beaches, or a fisherman’s house in a small village will give you a more well-rounded, varied island experience. I only recommend doing this if you’re staying for 4 nights or more, since I think there is so much to be gained by also not building in days that require additional logistics and planning.
Pollonia: Best Area to Stay in Milos for Restaurants and Easy Beach Access
Salt Suites in Pollonia has service as outstanding as its view.
Escape the sun in this beautiful shady haven at Melian Boutique Hotel.
I loved Melian Boutique Hotel‘s incredible sunset view from our private balcony.
Pollonia is a charming seaside town with great restaurants, a swimmable beach, and easy access to some of Milos’ most beautiful beaches like Sarakiniko. It’s consistently one of the top recommended bases on the island, and for good reason: you get a relaxed harbor setting with real restaurant variety at your doorstep, while still being close to the north side’s best beaches.
During my most recent trip to Milos, I stayed at the highly rated Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa. This property has been on my list to stay at for years; and while I enjoyed the property (especially the breakfast views and cozy rooms), it’s worth noting that it’s due for an update. Back when it first opened, it was one of the few boutique hotels on the island. Now, there are an abundance of options nearby and in other unique spots around the island that are noteworthy and design-forward; Phos Villas across the street in particular caught my eye for next time.
Hotel Tip: Milos doesn’t have many hotels overall so if you’re set on Pollonia, book months in advance; the best properties fill up quickly, especially in peak summer.
Best for: Couples, groups of friends, and travelers who want a lively-but-relaxed base with strong restaurant options and easy beach access.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Best concentration of restaurants on this side of the island, swimmable town beach, and close proximity to Sarakiniko and Papafragas beaches.
- Cons: Limited number of hotels overall on Milos means Pollonia properties book out fast, and it can get busy in peak summer.
Views from the restaurant at Melian Boutique Hotel, the perfect wake-up call for breakfast.
Where to Stay in Pollonia
Staying on the northwest side of Pollonia, on the Pelekouda headland is perfect for a quieter visit. This residential area is home to some of the best properties and Airbnbs, like this apartment with stunning sunset views and easy town access. The southeastern side of town is where the strip of lively tavernas and restaurants is situated, along with the town’s sandy beach. The only hotel in this main part of Pollonia is this luxury favorite of mine.
Hotels in Pollonia
Salt Suites – $$ – A modern but quintessentially Greek boutique hotel with sea views located steps from Pollonia Beach (and right next door to the popular Melian Boutique Hotel). The outstanding hospitality, stunning decor and walkable location make it a guest favorite.
Phos Villas – $$$ – Boutique luxury suites just a short walk from Pollonia Beach and town. The suites here are spacious, modern and feature private plunge pools and kitchens, making this a perfect pick for families and couples alike. Note breakfasts aren’t included here, but you have a kitchen and Pollonia town (a 3 minute walk) has a number of breakfast options.
Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel – $$$ – located just above Pollonia town, this dreamy hotel is just removed enough to give you some peace and quiet, but still close enough for a short walk into the center. Great for couples and for those who want the option of a pool on site. This property is high on my list for a future visit.
Captain Zeppos – $$$$ – If you like to be in the center of town, this is the hotel option. As it’s the only property within the main stretch of town, it books out early. Captain Zeppos is a favorite for its memorable decor, direct sea access and an oceanfront hot tub courtyard.
Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa – $$$$ – I enjoyed my recent stay at this boutique hotel. It is quiet, well-located and had the most beautiful, dramatic sunsets from our balcony. They are currently building a second structure next door which will include larger suites, a gym, and spa opening 2027 (and are then planning to undergo a major renovation at this property afterwards). I’d definitely consider staying here again after the update.
Airbnbs in Pollonia
Elyos Apartment – $$ – A comfortable 2 bedroom apartment steps from the sea. Newly built with all the modern comforts, this a home away from home
Kostantakis Pool House – $$$ – A spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath ground floor apartment with private pool a few minutes walk from the town center with restaurants and shops. (This is a great choice for a small group).
Green Suite – $$$ – A refined yet cozy private suite for up to 6 guests, owned by Captain Zeppos. Ideal for families and groups, this space is fully equipped and includes access to the pool and lounge at the waterfront Captain Zeppos complex.
White House – $$$$ – An exquisite 4 bedroom house part of the Captain Zeppos luxury complex. Groups can enjoy a private hot tub, spread out in the spacious living area or visit the complex pool bar for a refreshing drink.
Plaka: Best Area to Stay in Milos for Dining and Village Charm
Grab brunch at Kyra right on the main square of Plaka, a peaceful place to people watch.
This popular swimming spot in Firopotamos has charming traditional boathouses carved into the rock.
The beautiful whitewashed buildings and charming corners of Plaka.
Plaka is Milos’ capital and the island’s biggest town, with the most shops and restaurants for stocking up or settling in for a long dinner. Avli-Milos restaurant, right in the old center of Plaka, is a favorite with tables spilling out along the side streets. Cafe Palaios is an authentic Greek bakery nearby in the heart of town, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The hilltop town of Plaka is also home to the Venetian Castle, one of the best sunset spots on the entire island: arrive at least 20 minutes early to snag a good vantage point, then head down the hill for dinner. A great combo in the evenings.
Best for: Travelers who want to be based in the island’s capital, with the most dining and shopping variety, plus easy access to sunset views.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Biggest concentration of restaurants and shops on the island, home to the Venetian Castle sunset spot, and a beautiful, walkable Cycladic village center.
- Cons: Not within walking distance to a beach, so a car or ATV is essential.
Where to Stay in Plaka
Staying in the upper village of Plaka means old-town charm, incredible views and strolls to bakeries and restaurants like this beautiful hotel offers. Having a base like this peaceful guesthouse a little further down the hill makes for easier parking and convenient day tripping.
Hotels in Plaka
Odyssey Rock Milos – $$ – An elegant family-owned boutique complex located right inside the Venetian Castle offering stunning panoramic views. The rooms include fully equipped kitchens but they are also a short walk from town.
D3 Milos – $$$ – A stylish design driven boutique hotel with outstanding service ideally located close to town. Each suite has its own private pool with a view.
Echoes Milos – $$$ – an intimate 6-suite property overlooking the sea, just outside of Plaka but still worth considering for easy access. A romantic oasis, perfect for couples, that’s a short walk from Plathiena Beach.
Airbnbs in Plaka
Luxury Suite with Views Plaka – $$ – An upstairs suite with breathtaking unobstructed views over the sea.
Milos Bliss – $$ – A small whitewashed guesthouse overlooking the old castles and surrounding churches.
Plaka Suite – $$ – A walkable but quiet apartment close to restaurants with views to the inland villages.
Pelia – $$$ – A recently updated picturesque home with charming traditional decor and unique rooftop terrace.
South Coast: Best Area to Stay in Milos for Dramatic Beaches
Views of the south coast beaches like Firiplaka and Provatas from Eréma, a member of Design Hotels.
Cycladic rooms at the newly opened Eréma hotel.
Firiplaka, a sandy beach on the South Coast surrounded by volcanic cliffs.
The South Coast is home to some of Milos’ most dramatic beaches: Paliochori, known for red rock and sand so hot restaurants cook food directly on it, Firiplaka, a long stretch of sand with striking red rocks, and Tsigrado, only accessible via two ladders but opening out to turquoise water.
This area is also where Milos’ newest luxury opening, Eréma, just debuted. Each year this part of Milos gains more popularity as a choice for basing yourself, due to the open landscapes, fantastic beaches, and generally less crowded atmosphere then other parts of Milos.
Best for: Beach-focused travelers who want direct access to Milos’ most dramatic coastline, and don’t mind driving to reach restaurants and shops.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Access to some of the most dramatic beaches on the island and a quieter perspective on the island. Paliochori in particular is the best beach to visit on windy days.
- Cons: Fewer restaurants and shops than Plaka or Pollonia, and a car is essential.
Where to Stay on the South Coast
The South Coast is more rural than other areas on Milos, but that comes with stunning scenic drives. This pristine resort on the southwest tip epitomizes Greek luxury, while rentals like this updated guesthouse serve as a perfect base to explore the other-worldly landscapes of Paliochori and Tsigrado.
Hotels on the South Coast
Heavenly Milos Suites – $$ – These charming traditional suites are located right between two of the best beaches on Milos, making this the perfect place to explore by day and relax by the fire at night.
Artemis Seaside Resort – $$$ – A stunning beachfront resort with infinity pool and sunbathed terrace, a short distance from the volcanic sands of Paliochori Beach.
Volcano Luxury Suites Milos – $$$ – An intimate 6-suite adults-only boutique just steps from incredible dining and volcanic sands.
Eréma, a Member of Design Hotels – $$$$ – A newly opened luxury boutique hotel with private pools in each suite and exquisite on-site restaurants. This one’s a dream stay!
Views from the poolside bar at Eréma hotel.
Boats near Tsigrado Beach on Milos.
Airbnbs on the South Coast
Manis-Sirma – $$ – A fisherman’s house with whitewashed natural walls and sleek modern amenities located right on Provatas Beach.
Cave Beach House Milos – $$$ – A casual private beach house a short drive from restaurants and tavernas. This is the sort of place that feels like a true escape to while away the day.
Giourgas Apartment – $$$ – One of two serene apartments overlooking Agios Sostis Beach complete with private verandas and daily cleaning service.
Nino’s Country House – $$$$ – An expansive private home with plush king beds and warm yet elegant decor nestled in the natural landscape close to the port of Milos.
The Fishing Villages: Best Area to Stay in Milos for a Unique Vantage Point
Mandrakia, arguably Milos’ most beautiful and popular fishing village.
The decor at Anemosyrma is minimalist, clean and so Greek.
The views from Anemosyrma are so picturesque.
Milos’ fishing villages, including popular ones like Klima, Mandrakia, and Firopotamos, are some of the most photogenic corners of the island. Klima is a traditional fishing village with multicolored houses built right along the rocks, steps from the water; few inhabitants still live here, but if you catch it at sunset, you might see them going for an evening swim. Astakas Klima, a waterfront restaurant here, is one of the best spots to watch the sunset before dinner (make a reservation beforehand).
Firopotamos is a pristine stretch of beach protected by nearby cliffs, known for its white-washed houses and cliff jumping spots; it’s one of the top photo spots on the entire island. Nearby Mandrakia is a small fishing village that’s gained popularity over the years due to its aesthetic colorful fisherman’s houses. A stay here is unique, but crowded in summer months.
Beyond these three inlets, there are plenty of other lesser-known, quaint fishing villages where you’ll find small rentals and Airbnbs like Konstantinos and Mytakas. For instance, I stayed at Anemosyrma in Konstantinos during my most recent visit to Milos, a tiny but swimmable cove with local families and a picturesque church perched above the sea. This is the more authentic choice if you’re opting for a fishing village and don’t want the day tripping crowds that come with it.
Accommodation Tip: There are no hotels within the true fishing villages, just a handful of traditional “syrma” boat houses and fisherman’s cottages converted into some of the most unique stays on Milos.
Best for: Travelers looking for a unique stay on the island with easy access to swim and lounge.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Charming converted fisherman’s houses, incredible photo opportunities, and easy access to the sea.
- Cons: No hotels, limited nightlife and shopping, and a car is essential to get anywhere else on the island. Lack of privacy; the popular fishing villages get very crowded during the day.
Where to Stay in the Fishing Villages
The fishing villages offer a uniquely Greek experience and memorable accommodation. Accommodation is limited (no hotels!) and can be crowded during peak months but staying beyond the inlets is where the gems like like this breezy beach house.
If you opt to stay in one of the more popular towns, I can’t stress enough how much the actual property matters. Choosing the right one means a unique, tucked away experience with the sea steps from your door. Choosing the wrong one means no privacy: picture crowds standing feet from your front door all day to take photos. For that reason, I specifically recommend the boat houses on the water in Firopotamos over Mandrakia and Klima — a few of which offer that ‘tucked away’ experience but keep you right in the most picturesque part of the fishing village.
Stays in the Fishing Villages (Airbnbs)
Anemosyrma (Konstantinos) – $$ – This quaint beach house sits atop a traditional boathouse and offers an open plan layout with incredible scenic views.
Manolis and Filio Home By The Sea (Konstantinos) – $$ – A bright and beautiful top floor suite right on the beach, with sunset swimming in turquoise waters.
Endless Blue (Firopotamos) – $$ – a seaside house with a balcony overlooking the beautiful turqouise blue bay of Firopotamos. Due to it’s position on the second level, you won’t be contending with crowds in front of your door – but you still have access to some of the best swimming spots just a few steps away.
Thavma Milos (Firopotomos) – $$$ – a chic, airy fisherman’s house with a tucked in balcony and the sea at your doorstep. One of the most photographed parts of the island is right around the corner, but you’ll have uninterrupted views. Another similar option I recommend is Thavma Boathouse.
Terra Mare Milos (Mytakas) – $$$$ – A stunning ground floor suite that feels carved from stone with direct sea access and all the comforts of home.
Agios Konstantinos, the fishing village where Anemosyrma and Manolis and Filio Home By The Sea are based. Visiting the fishing villages on the island should be part of every Milos itinerary.
Other Hotels and Stays on Milos
Beyond these main areas for accommodation on the island, there are a few standout properties that don’t fall under the areas I recommend most — but are definitely worthy of considering as a base.
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- Asterias Boutique Hotel, a great family run budget friendly option close to Sarakiniko. We loved our stay here.
- Théa Sunset Suites, gorgeous hillside sea views and private jetted hot tub in Mytakas.
- Skinopi Lodge, often booked up; some people plan their entire trip around this romantic hotel retreat.
Final Thoughts
Whether you base yourself in lively Pollonia, dine your way through Plaka, post up near the red rocks of the South Coast, or tuck yourself into a traditional syrma in one of the fishing villages, Milos will be one of the most unique destinations you’ll ever visit. For an even more in-depth look at where to eat, the best beaches, and what to do on Milos, take a look at my complete Milos travel guide.
Want an expert’s help in planning your trip to Greece? My Greek Islands Digital Guide is your companion for every step, complete with daily itineraries, hand-picked recommendations, and ferry routes and tips for visiting other nearby islands. Take a peek.
