Getting from Athens to Milos

If you are heading to Milos from Athens you are going to one of the most visually extraordinary islands in Greece. Milos is volcanic, with a coastline of white and ochre rock formations, sea caves and beaches of coloured minerals that look like nowhere else in the Aegean. Sarakiniko, the white lunar landscape in the north of the island, is one of the most photographed places in Greece. Kleftiko, a sea cave complex accessible only by boat, is extraordinary. The Venus de Milo was found here in 1820 and is now in the Louvre. The old village of Plaka above the port is beautiful in the evening and the island rewards a longer stay than most visitors give it.

Take the ferry

The Piraeus to Milos ferry is one of the most popular western Cyclades routes. Ferries run year-round with up to 4 daily crossings in summer, taking around 3 hours 30 minutes on the fast boat and around 7 hours on a conventional vessel. Blue Star Ferries, Seajets and Fast Ferries all serve the route. The conventional overnight crossing from Piraeus is a good option if you want to maximise time on the island. Book ahead in July and August as this route fills up fast.

Getting there by air

Both Athens and Milos have airports. The flight from Athens to Milos takes around 45 minutes with Olympic Air and Sky Express operating the route daily. Flying is the fastest option but the ferry delivers you directly to the port of Adamas in the heart of the island without any onward transfer.

Your best option

Take the ferry if you have time. The fast catamaran at 3 hours 30 minutes is a reasonable crossing and arriving into Adamas by sea is a better introduction to the island than landing at the airport. Fly if time is short. Either way book ahead in summer as Milos has become one of the most sought-after islands in the Cyclades and both ferry and flight fill up quickly.