DAY ONE

MORNING

Make breakfast at your accommodation, or head for a cheap bite at the bakery, then catch the bus to Sarakiniko Beach. This famous moonscape beach has singlehandedly put Milos on the tourist radar. Sarakiniko is unorganised so be sure to pack all the snacks and water you will need to fuel your sunbathing and cliff jumping needs. You can board the bus from Adamas bus station, located in the centre of town, and pay 2.5 euros in cash upon disembarkation.

Afternoon

After the appropriate amount of tanning time has passed, board the bus toward Plaka for lunch. Plaka is the capital town of Milos and it sits atop a 220m hill, providing breathtaking views of the island. Everything you could want in a Greek town is located in Plaka – bright pink flowers, blue domed churches, and white washed buildings. If your budget permits then stop over at Archontoula for some delicious pizza (and cocktails).

EVENING

After exploring the boutique stores and stunning viewpoints in Plaka head back to Adamas for a chill evening. Either cook yourself a meal or stop over at “Gyros of Milos” for some tasty and filling souvlaki. Adamas itself is a beautiful town to wander around. So, on your way to Lagada Beach for another swim I suggest taking the scenic route through the narrow suburban streets. If the vibes are high (and why wouldn’t they be?) I recommend snagging a few supermarket beers before heading to Aragosta Bar for a sneaky drink to fuel some embarrassing dance moves.

DAY TWO

MORNING

Wake up early to rent your hire car or quad bike from one of the travel companies surrounding the port town of Adamas. Be sure to check out all of the travel companies as they provide varied prices. With the windows rolled all the way down, head south toward Tsigardo Beach. Squeeze your way through the fissure in the volcanic cliff face and climb down two pecurliously perched ladders to reach the hidden beach. Tsigardo Beach is worth your whole morning, not only for taking a dip in the turquoise water but also for exploring the numerous caves and snorkelling spots!

AFTERNOON

During the heat of the day head back to your accommodation to reapply some sunscreen and grab a gyros. One of my favourite spots on Milos Island to sit and watch the world go by was from the traditional fishing village of Mandrakia. This charming village is one of the most picturesque spots on the whole island. Here you will find a blue domed church, squid hanging to dry on clotheslines, and fishing boats moored next to colourful symrata.

After you are sufficiently sweaty again head to Papafragas Beach. The volcanic cliff faces have formed a channel of water that empities into the crystal clear sea under an impressive natural bridge. The beach is technically closed however this does not stop everyone from climbing their way down the path on their hands and knees to reach the tiny stretch of shaded sand.

EVENING

Pick up a few snacks from the supermarket, maybe a bottle or two of local wine, and make the most of your rental vehicle by heading to Klima for sunset. This is another incredibly beautiful fishing village on the northern side of the island. Klima is about three times as large as Mandrakia with a stunning array of coloured boat sheds along the sandy shore. There are plenty of benches to sit down, relax, and enjoy the view.

DAY THREE

MORNING/AFTERNOON

When you rent your car or quad bike it is also best to enquire about a day tour to Kleftiko and the western side of the island. These tours will range from 3-6 hours which is the perfect length to occupy the middle length of your day.

Kleftiko is located on the southwesternmost part of the island and is only accessible by boat. The impressive volcanic landscape has sculpted rock formations that provided caves for pirates to hide throughout history. The pristine waters of western Milos are untouched by development which is has preserved a magical habitat for marine life beneath the sea. If you are a solo traveller then these day tours can be a great way to connect with like-minded backpackers on the island.

EVENING

If you have the freedom of a car or ATV then I highly suggest heading to O! Hamos! Tavern (if you do not have a vehicle it is only a 20 minute walk from Adamas). This traditional Greek tavern serves the most delicious meals and is located right on the beach.

After an early dinner it is time to head to the best sunset spot on the entire island, Plaka Castle. It is not possible to feel as free as when you are swinging your legs over the edge of a Venetian castle watching the sky turn from orange to navy. You will need to catch the bus to Plaka if you do not have a rental vehicle, however all the trouble will be more than worth it!