The Best Areas to Stay in Milos (Best Hotels & Unique Airbnbs)

Published October 12, 2026

From staying in a traditional boathouse in the colorful fishing villages to the family-friendly beach town of Pollonia, or staying in Plaka, a foodie paradise, there is a wide choice of areas to stay in Milos. After my long week staying in the most iconic fishing village of Firopotamos and exploring Milos, I’m sharing just where you want to base yourself depending on your travel style.

Unlike the rest of the Cycladic islands, Milos sets itself apart in terms of style of accommodations and landscape. It’s bigger than expected, with corners of the island offering an entirely different experience, and that’s part of why I think it’s smart to choose based on your travel style. And while its hotel options are far fewer than the other islands, it makes up for it with some pretty spectacular Airbnbs. If you can plan ahead, you’ll be able to snag some of the best accommodations on the island, from traditional villas to boathouses right on the water’s edge.

I’m sharing the best places to stay in Milos, where to base yourself depending on your travel style, and just why you want to consider staying in a traditional boathouse on the island. Milos’ landscape, from Sarakiniko that feels like the moon to the volcanic beaches in the south, makes it one of the best places to visit during any Greek island-hopping trip.

The Best Places to Stay in Milos (Where to Base Yourself)

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The Best Towns to Stay in Milos

When you start planning your time in Milos, I believe the best towns and areas to stay in are either one of the unique fishing villages or a base with amenities like Plaka for great restaurants, Pollonia for families, or the wind-protected Southern Coast. The fishing villages give you the most unique stays, with traditional syrma (or boathouses) available for rent. The Southern Coast gives you beaches that are often the most protected from the unavoidable northern Meltemi Winds. And then Plaka, the epicenter of the best restaurants on the island, offers a village experience unlike the rest of the island, or Pollonia, which is calm and easygoing for families. I recommend renting a car if you want the freedom to explore Milos beyond the main bus routes.

Rental Car Tip: We used Avance Rent a Car for all our car rentals across 5 weeks and 4 islands on our Greece trip and had a great experience. Pick-ups and drop-offs were the fastest we’ve had anywhere, and the prices were quite reasonable. We ended up booking direct, as we found most of the main booking sites had very limited availability and much higher prices.

Where Exactly to Stay in Milos: Overview and Map

Area	Best For	Vibe	Where I’d Stay
Fishing Villages Firopotamos, Mandrakia, Klima, Agios Konstantinos	Beachfront boathouses and unique stays	Scenic coves, quiet mornings and evenings	Airbnb: Blue Mare (Where I Stayed)
Plaka	Traditional village charm and dining	Hilltop village, sunset views, lively evenings	Airbnb: Odyssey Rock Athena Suite Hotel: D3 Milos
Southern Coast	Luxury hotels and beaches with less wind	Scenic beaches, seaside taverns, fewer dining options	Airbnb: Cave Beach House Hotel: Artemis Seaside Resort
Pollonia	Families and quiet stays	Easygoing harbor town, swimmable beaches, walkable restaurants	Airbnb: Maison Esperia Hotel: Captain Zeppos
Adamas	Ferry convenience and short stays	Busy port, central transport hub, plenty of amenities	Airbnb: Esperos Seaside Suites Hotel: Portiani Suites

Where to Stay in Milos by Total Nights

• Under 4 Nights: Either a Fishing Village, Plaka, South Coast, or Pollonia
• 4+ Nights: Split Your Stay Between a Few Nights in a Syrma and then Plaka, South Coast, or Pollonia

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My Favorite Stay: Sleeping in a “Syrma” (Boathouse)

I planned my entire trip in Milos around being able to reserve a syrma, or traditional Greek boathouse, and I’m so glad I did. We stayed the entire week in this private 2-floor boathouse with a terrace in Firopotamos. It’s one of the most unique experiences on the island, and I feel any itinerary in Milos should include at least 2 nights in a syrma if you can. These self-catered boathouses, often two levels or split into two units, have so much charm. But more importantly, their locations directly at sea level are unparalleled. I’d go out of my way to get a reservation, or at least plan ahead, as these super popular accommodations book months in advance.

My Top 10 Picks for Boathouses in Milos

• Where I Stayed: Blue Mare | 1 Br | 2-Floor with Terrace | Firopotamos
• Aquamarine | 2 Br | On Beach | Firopotamos
• Endless Blue | 1 Br | Large Terrace | Firopotamos
• Sirma Maris | 1 Br | Cave House | Mandrakia
• Esperanza Fisherman’s House | 1 Br | Large Private Patio | Mandrakia
• Fisherman’s House | 2 Br | Balcony | Klima
• Mimallis Syrma | 2 Br | Great Design | Klima
• Aqua House 2 | 2 Br | Secluded Cove | Agios Konstantinos
• Cave Beach House | 1 Br | Boathouse on Provatas Beach
• Manis-Sirma | 1 Br | Boathouse on Provatas Beach

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The Fishing Villages (Firopotamos, Mandrakia, Klima, Agios Konstantinos): Best Location For Beachfront and Authentic Stays

I shared how I absolutely adored our fishing village stay in Firopotamos inside a traditional ‘syrma’ or boathouse. The fishing villages across Milos make for some of the most exceptionally-located destinations, as you stay quite literally in the coves themselves at sea level. Some of the boathouses have two levels (recommended if you want more privacy on a terrace), but nonetheless, these accommodations are unique to Milos (and neighboring Kimolos).

In Milos, you have a few different main fishing villages to choose from, with most being on the northern side of the island. You have the most famous one, Klima, which is a line of colorful boathouses facing the bay and home to a good tavern. Firopotamos (where I stayed and recommend for families) is a cove that has a swimmable beach and has quite a few syrmata to choose from but no restaurants. There is Mandrakia, which is the smallest of the bunch, home to Medusa restaurant and really picturesque. And finally, Agios Konstantinos, a tiny fishing village with about a dozen boathouses around a cove.

Where to Stay in The Fishing Villages

Firopotamos (The Most Picturesque and Swimmable Beach)

1. Where I Stayed: Blue Mare | 1 Br | 2-Floor with Terrace — We stayed the entire trip in this boathouse and loved it. Mornings were so quiet, come evening as well, and when we wanted privacy, we went up to our terrace. It’s set on a stunning stretch of sand just out the door. The same host also has this apartment available, and this one.
2. Aquamarine | 2 Br | On Beach — We toured this one while there as we met the people staying, and it was lovely. I’d gladly take this one as well!
3. Billy’s Boathouse | 1 Br | Two-Story — A cozy 1-bedroom that has the bedroom on the second floor and a private terrace to enjoy looking back to the cove.
4. Spilia Fyropotamos | 2 Br | Luxury Second Floor — I looked at this one, and it was booked out fully; I think because it sits on a second-floor patio in a section where no one can walk in front of you. Very upscale and modern!
5. Endless Blue | 1 Br | Large Terrace — This was my other favorite syrma for the cove, and I adore the minimal design with the view back towards the cove.
6. Thavma Milos | 1 Br | Private — One of the more private options on the cove, looking back directly to the beach.

Mandrakia (The Charming Cove)

1. Mimikos Fisherman House | 1 Br | Colorful — One of the main boathouses in Mandrakia, and best-rated for amenities and cleanliness.
2. Sirma Maris | 1 Br | Cave House — A few of the boathouses are actually built into the caves, and this is one of them. Very idyllic and set up well for a long stay.
3. Esperanza Fisherman’s House | 1 Br | Large Private Patio — One of the few that has a good private patio in addition to being a traditional boathouse.

Agios Konstantinos (The Quietest Fishing Village)

1. Aqua House 1 | 1 Br | Secluded Cove — Agios Konstantinos has a collection of small boathouses that have been beautifully renovated and given a bohemian design to them. This is one of them, with 1 bedroom and space for up to 5 guests. If you rent it with Aqua House 2 & 3, your group can stay together around the same cove!
2. Aqua House 2 | 2 Br | Secluded Cove — A 2-bedroom option on the cove, same hosts as the other Aqua House. This one has a really nice patio and a point of view to the sea.
3. Aqua House 3 | 1 Br | Veranda Only — Of the 3 houses here, this is the only one that does not have direct water access, but instead is on the second floor with a veranda. Great if you want a view, but still in the cove.

Klima (The Iconic Colorful Village)

1. Mimallis Syrma | 2 Br | Great Design — Of the choices in Klima, this is a personal favorite for the design and layout. Love a second-story terrace for privacy.
2. Fisherman’s House | 2 Br | Balcony — A cheerful two-bedroom with a wonderful balcony overlooking Klima. It’s one of the more modern options for this village.
3. Blue Syrma | 1 Br — Sweet little syrma with one bedroom right on the cove.
4. The Colourful Land Syrma | 1 Br | Modern — One of the more modern renovated ones set with outdoor furniture.
5. Aganta Klima Syrma | 1 Br | 2 Levels — Airy, bright syrma with a pale green door and minimal style.
6. Sirma Irene | 2 Br | 2 Levels — One of the highest-rated in Klima, this boathouse has two bedrooms and a bathroom and can sleep 2-4 people.

Pros and Cons of Staying in the Fishing Villages

• Pros — The opportunity to stay in the traditional boathouses or syrmata is very unique to Milos, and puts you within walking distance of the sea. It’s scenic, and you have the mornings and the evenings to yourself at these coves. You’ll find almost only Airbnbs for these properties, houses that are set up well for several-night stays with small kitchens. It’s one of the most unique experiences on the island.
• Cons — The downside can often be the size. They’re tight spaces and often involve 2 floors. The other downside is that the best ones are situated in the most popular coves, which means midday crowds are a real thing. Privacy can be a bit tricky if you’re envisioning a quiet cove all day — that will only be the mornings and evenings. Every one of these is self-catered and has limited dining, so be prepared to bring in your own food or venture out for restaurants.

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Plaka: Best Location For A Traditional Village and Dining 

Plaka was one of our favorite villages that we spent time in, so much so that we returned several times for meals in Milos’ capital. It’s the heart of traditional village charm, set high up on a hill and home to several great restaurants and bars. It’s the spot for sunset; everyone comes to the top of Plaka at the Venetian Kastro to watch the sun dip down over the Aegean. When it comes to finding a village that has a bit of everything, from quiet, more local village mornings to a bustling dining scene come evening, this is it. Locationally, you’re close enough to drive to a lot in under 20 minutes, from fishing villages to the southern beaches, but you are inland. It’s good to know you can’t fully drive your car into the village. The narrow central lanes are pedestrian-only, and access to the main square is often restricted around sunset in summer.

Where to Stay in Plaka

Best Airbnbs in Plaka

1. Odyssey Rock Athena Suite | 2 Br | Rooftop Terrace — Part of the Odyssey Rock complex, the Athena Suite is a beautifully done 2-bedroom maisonette. It’s well-designed and works great for families.
2. Villa Efrosini | 4 Br | Pool + Family-Friendly — For a large group, I’d look at Villa Efrosini, one of the only villas in Plaka with a pool. Set up well for families or groups of friends, the outdoor terraces are amazing for sunset.
3. Sunset Villa | Studio | Seaviews — A well-priced studio in Plaka that has the perfect view for sunset.

Best Hotels in Plaka

1. D3 Milos — For the most luxurious option in Plaka, I’d look at D3 Milos, which has taken a hillside as home to its stunning suites. It’s very design-forward and feels very elevated in amenities.
2. Niove Suites — Right in the heart of Plaka, Niove Suites is a contemporary and modern-designed hotel, with several suite options with terraces and balconies. You’re close to everything in Plaka, and yet have the amenities of a hotel, and I love that some of the top floors have sea views.
3. Odyssey Rock Milos — A family-run hotel that’s a longstanding favorite in Plaka, featuring suites and small maisonettes for rent in the village. It feels more like a residential house but yet has well-equipped amenities from kitchenettes to Nespresso machines.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Plaka

• Pros — Staying in Plaka means you’ll have one of the best traditional stays on the island. It’s a bustling village with lots to do in terms of restaurants, bars, and epic views. You get a real sense of Greek village life here.
• Cons — You’ll find mostly Airbnbs here, and because the center does not allow cars, it will often mean that if you’re staying in the heart of the village, you’ll have a considerable walk from the parking lot. And since you’re up the hill, it does mean a drive to get to the beaches.

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The Southern Coast: Best Location for Luxury Hotels and Shelter from the Meltemi Winds

The Southern Coast takes serious consideration, as its beaches are often more sheltered from the northerly Meltemi winds than the island’s exposed northern beaches. I think if you’re coming in peak windy season, there is something really nice about this stretch of coast in Milos that goes from Paleochori to Agia Kyriaki, to Provatas. It makes sense why some of the island’s top hotels have chosen to open here, as this stretch of coast has fewer windy days. And while it offers some of the most stunning natural beaches, it does have a series of beachfront taverns and restaurants (especially Paleochori) as options for dining. But it’s nothing like Plaka or even Pollonia in terms of choice.

Where to Stay on the Southern Coast

Best Airbnbs on the Southern Coast

1. Cave Beach House | 1 Br | Boathouse — While not technically in a fishing village, there are a handful of boathouse properties on the southern coast like this Cave Beach House that opens up directly to sandy shores. It’s very well-rated, set perfectly for those who want something traditional but sans the crowds.
2. Manis-Sirma | 1 Br | Boathouse — Beautiful modern take on the traditional ‘syrma’ of Milos; this is close to the one above.
3. Giourgas Apartment N.4 | 1 Br | Seaview — Part of a collection of apartments, this one is so beautiful, with a terrace with sea views and dining chairs. The design is beautiful and tasteful; you’re minutes from Agios Sostis Beach.
4. Ninos House Villa | 2 Br | Seaview — Built with traditional rock and set with expansive terraces with views over the sea, this is my choice for a two-bedroom. It’s close to Provatas, and well positioned just above the beach.

Best Hotels on the Southern Coast

1. Artemis Seaside Resort — Set in Paleochori, Artemis is one of the only beachfront hotels in Milos that is upscale. Its prized location makes it one of the top hotels on the island, and it’s home to a wonderful restaurant and pool that overlooks the sea. The rooms are more modern, with typical white walls for Cycladic design, and don’t overlook the rooms with private pools.
2. Eréma, a Member of Design Hotels — The most anticipated hotel opening on Milos went to Eréma, the new all-suite hotel that opened with incredible Aegean views. I had two friends stay here this last month, and they raved about the design with the infinity pool alongside on-site amenities like the Elios Spa.
3. Volcano Luxury Suites — Another great choice for Paleochori, more of a boutique hotel choice but still splendid for an ideal location.
4. Aigeis Milos | Nautical Suite | 1 Br | Ammos Suite | 1 Br | Vintage Suite | 1 Br — One of the more secluded luxury hotels on the island, set just above Agia Kyriaki, Aigeis Milos offers a very private stay.
5. Golden Milos Beach House — The other prime beachfront property is Golden Milos on Provatas Beach, which was recently renovated into a much more luxurious hotel. The suites and rooms are very spacious by design, and it’s home to the Salty Goat Beach Club, which is great for those who want to hang and eat by the beach.

Pros and Cons of Staying on the Southern Coast

• Pros — You have the most dramatic landscapes and beaches on Milos, and consequently the most choice for luxury to mid-tier hotels. If you’re envisioning a stay with the bells and whistles of a hotel, this is where to look. You’re close to a ton, and can easily traverse the island. You’re also on the southern side of the island, where the beaches are more sheltered from the northerly Meltemi winds.
• Cons — There is no defined village here outside of the restaurant area of Paleochori, so if you’re a big foodie, you will feel like you need to journey a bit to dine.

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Pollonia: Best Location For Quiet Stays and Families

Over the course of our trip in Milos, we spent several afternoons in Pollonia, the small harbor town on the north-eastern point of the island. It gets picked as a family favorite because of the flat village beaches that sit here, alongside about a dozen restaurants to pick from surrounding the harbor. After visiting with our 4-year-old daughter, I can see why a family would want to base here (there’s even a beachside park!). It’s quiet come evening, with really just those who have come to have dinner or are staying in the town. Across from Pollonia is Kimolos, a popular day trip that you can take from the town as well on the ferry Osia Methodia.

Where to Stay in Pollonia

Best Airbnbs in Pollonia

1. BlueNote Milos Boathouse | Studio | Waterfront Boathouse — If I had to pick one well-designed boathouse for Pollonia, this is it. It’s very chic with a single-floor boathouse opening up to the sea. I love the more minimal materials, and you have everything you need for a stay.
2. Koufiakas Boathouse | 1 Br | Waterfront Boathouse — One of the few traditional boathouses for rent in Pollonia, this recently renovated one is set with modern amenities from AC to an electric stove. Just outside your door is the main bay of Pollonia.
3. Maison Esperia | 2 Br | Sea Views — For a two-bedroom, Maison Esperia is my top pick for Pollonia, set with sea views that get the sunset every night. It’s very modern, spacious, and I love that there is a terrace.
4. Captain Zeppos | Green Suite | 2 Br | Blue Suite | 2 Br | Sunset Suite | 2 Br | White House | 4 Br — I think this one takes the top spot for me in Pollonia itself, as a boutique and family-run hotel with rooms bookable on Airbnb. It’s very small; it lends itself more to an upscale B&B. The design is chic, and each room has its own feel with sea-view verandas, kitchens, and complimentary kayaks and bikes.

Best Hotels in Pollonia

1. Salt Suites — One of the newer properties in this area, Salt Suites consistently takes the best in design for this corner of Milos. The rooms are sublime, several with patios that have jacuzzis and lounge spaces. Plus, the suites are seafront just over in Pelekouda, a short walk from Pollonia.
2. Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa — Set seaside, this 15-room boutique hotel is a good choice, as many of the suites have a private outdoor space with sea views. I also love that this property has a spa, so if you’re looking for any treatments, it’s right there.
3. Phos Suites — Minimal and contemporary design with Cycladic touches makes Phos Suites one of the top choices here in Pollonia. Several room categories have their own plunge pool and outdoor terraces. It’s super close to the beachfront, and one of the most walkable hotels to town.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Pollonia

• Pros — You have a very swimmable and accessible beach just in the town, making it easy to get into the water, especially with kids. The town has about a dozen or so restaurants, so if you’re one who loves walking from your accommodation to food, this is a perk. Because it’s at the furthest tip, you’ll have quieter evenings here too.
• Cons — The downside is you’re the furthest from the most popular beaches on the island, so prepare for having to do longer drives. I also found the Meltemi winds to be the most intense here because of how exposed it is; twice we visited, and the beach started to pick up some waves come mid-afternoon.

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Adamas: Best Location For Convenience

If you arrive in Milos by ferry, the main port is Adamas (or Adamantas). This long, stretched-out port sits around a curved bay. It’s the major hub for the island, feeling the most commercial. But with this, you do have wonderful access to the rest of the island because you’re at the midpoint — 20 minutes in either direction takes you somewhere new. And while it doesn’t have the charm that the smaller villages like Plaka and Pollonia do, it does make it up in practicality. You have everything you need in Adamas, from grocery markets to several restaurants, and even a small stretch of sand that seemed to be busy almost all hours of the day. You choose Adamas because of function and practicality; it works great for a short stay or for those who may want a quick accommodation on arrival.

Where to Stay in Adamas

Best Airbnbs in Adamas

1. Esperos Seaside Suites | 2 Br | Seaview | Free Parking — One of the top-rated 2-bedroom apartments in Adamas, the Esperos Seaside Suite puts you steps from everything. I love the second-floor terrace, which gives you wonderful views of the harbor, and the parking space is helpful for those who have a rental car.
2. The Windmill | 1 Br | Unique | Free Parking — The Windmill Airbnb takes the cake for the most unique property in Adamas. Set within a 19th-century windmill, the two-floor windmill has been transformed into a very tasteful suite with views of the Gulf of Adamas.
3. Sunshine Apartment | 2 Br | Large Terrace | Free Parking — One of my favorites for the port, the Sunshine Apartment has this wonderful large terrace with a dining table. This is one of those spaces that sets up well for a longer stay, as the kitchen is well-equipped.
4. Port House 1820 | 3 Br | Seaview and Family-Friendly | Nearby Free Parking — If you’re traveling with a large group, the Port House 1820 sets up very well with a large space. And if you have kids in tow, they even have amenities like high chairs and cribs available. Wonderful balcony view as well of the port!

Best Hotels in Adamas

1. Portiani Suites — Set right on the waterfront in Adamas, Portiani Suites is the most popular luxury choice for the port. It has had recent renovations, and the new interiors lean more contemporary with the classic white Cycladic look of Milos. Some of the rooms even have a veranda, and you’re steps from the harbor.
2. Arco Solium Suites — A second choice to Portiani Suites, for those looking for elevated accommodations, Arco Solium Suites has a similar upscale, yet more subdued feel to it. The design still leans more toward Cycladic whites and blues, but has more cozy accents. Their suites are very spacious by standard, with some even having outdoor jacuzzis or an indoor option.
3. Olea Bay Hotel — If you still want to be within walking distance of the harbour but just set far from it, Olea Bay is one of the few modern hotels that have seafront access. The hotel runs on a more affordable price point but delivers an elevated feel. It also has a pool, and every suite has a sea-facing balcony or veranda.
4. Scylla Concept Suites — One of the most exclusive properties near Adamas, Scylla Concept has only 7 rooms, with each room having a private pool. This is a very elevated property, intimate, and has a high-touch experience with the on-site concierge services and the ability to arrange excursions to meals.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Adamas

• Pros — The main upside to staying in Adamas is the convenience of staying with easy access to the ferries alongside the main bus routes passing through here. You’ll have ample restaurant choices and all amenities needed.
• Cons — It’s much more commercial here and can often be quite busy, as ferries pour into the town daily. Adamas does not have the same feeling or atmosphere as the other traditional villages, but it’s 10 out of 10 for practicality and function.

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Other Accommodations to Consider

There are a handful of standout properties that are not in the exact areas above, but are worth considering.

Skinopi Lodge

I tried several times to get one of the seven secluded retreats at Skinopi Lodge, as I originally wanted to split our stay between here and a boathouse. It’s arguably the toughest reservation to get, as it’s so in demand for its incredible remote setting and architecture. The style of the retreats is built into the hillside (they almost look like part of the landscape), each feeling very private and exclusive. You have outdoor showers and sea-facing terraces, and the perk of à la carte breakfast served on your patio. If you can snag one of these, it’s well worth booking in advance. The location is remote in itself; it’s still close to Adamas and Plaka. Book on Airbnb: Elies Room | Kapari Room | Levanda Room | Thymari Room | Almyra Room | Anemone Room | Skinos Room

Milos Cove

One of the outlier hotels on the island that sits far east above Agkali Beach is Milos Cove. I call it a destination hotel, the kind that has all of the amenities you need to stay on property. Think things like a spa, pools, two bars, and a restaurant, alongside its very own beach access. Milos Cove is worth considering if you’re looking for something that feels very polished with the amenities of a resort.

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What to Know About Visiting Milos

How far in advance should I book my stay in Milos?

Because Milos has considerably fewer hotels than the other islands like Naxos or Paros, the hotels and particularly the top Airbnbs book out really far in advance. It’s an island that draws a lot of visitors because of its airport and quick flight access from Athens, and ferries between other islands.

Airbnb or Hotel in Milos?

I’m keen to say that the Airbnbs in Milos often outshine the hotels in Milos simply due to location. When you look at some of the renovated boathouses at sea level, these are just so unique in experience. If you want the amenities and service, like an on-site restaurant or spa, then a hotel is the right choice for you.

How many days in Milos is enough?

I recommend at least 4 nights and five days in Milos. If you can stay longer, that will give you time to explore more of the remote beaches and have time for a day trip to Kimolos or do a boat trip.

What is the best part of Milos to stay?

Depending on your travel style, Pollonia is best for families, Adamas for convenience, Southern Coast for beaches and less wind, Plaka for dining and village charm, and then the fishing villages for unique accommodations.

What is the best way to get to Milos?

If you’re on a nearby island, consider taking a ferry straight into Milos. If coming from Athens, you can take a short direct flight to Milos with Olympic Air or SKY Express.

How do you get around Milos?

A rental car gives you the most flexibility for exploring Milos, especially the farther beaches and towns. For those wanting to access the more adventurous roads, a 4WD or ATV rental is recommended. Buses connect Adamas with Plaka, Pollonia, and several popular beaches, with schedules varying by season. Some coastal spots are best reached by boat.

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