How To Get Around Milos, Greece
If you’ve read our other guides and posts, you’ll know that we absolutely love exploring a place with total freedom, and Milos is all about freedom and flexibility. While the island does have public transport, the best way to discover its hidden beaches, rugged coastlines, and remote spots is by hiring your own wheels.
Our trusty ATV
Renting a Car or ATV (Quadbike)
Hiring a car or ATV is by far the most convenient way to get around the island. We suggest you go for an ATV option because it’s not possible to get to everywhere on the island in a car, and some of the approaches to the beaches are steep and slippery (we saw some cars struggle to get out of their parking spots).
ATVs (quadbikes) can access spots that cars can’t reach. Many of the island’s best beaches and viewpoints are down narrow, bumpy tracks, so an ATV gives you that extra freedom.
For two people, go for something powerful — at least 450cc. The cheaper 150cc models might seem appealing becuase they are cheaper, but will struggle on steeper roads.
Cars are great if you prefer more comfort or are travelling with kids, but you won’t be able to access the far eastern or western parts of the island due to rougher roads.
Petrol stations are mainly located around Adamas, so make sure to fill up before heading to more remote parts of the island. ATVs don’t use that much fuel, but it’s best to top up daily so you don’t get stuck somewhere scenic but stranded.
Most beaches and towns have free parking, though it’s not always organised; you’ll often be parking on dirt or sand.
For Sarakiniko and a few other spots, you may need to walk 5–10 minutes from the parking area to get to the beach.
Plaka can be a bit tricky for parking in peak season, so arrive early or late in the day.
Google Maps works well on the island, but don’t expect perfect signal in the remote west or when off-road. Download offline maps of Milos on Google Maps to make sure you always have a reference.
Taxis will be waiting at the ferry port when you arrive
Taking the Bus
Even though Milos is a small island, it has a bus network that connects most of the main towns and beaches.
Tickets cost €2 per trip and are cash only (you pay the driver directly)
The timetables can be a little confusing — they only show when the bus leaves its first stop, so you’ll need to estimate your stop time (Google Maps can help with this)
All the routes run through Adamas, so the buses are best used if you're staying in Adamas and only plan to visit the most popular spots like Sarakiniko, Pollonia, or Plaka
Signs will tell you when each bus departs for its route
Check current bus routes and timetables here
The main routes are below (each bus journey takes 15-20 minutes maximum), but check the website using the link above for all of the routes and updated timetables. It also has pictures of the bus stops which is prety helpful.
Getting Taxis
Taxis are available across the island, but they’re not the most budget-friendly option. We read that there are 15 taxis on the island, and most of them hang around the ferry port waiting for customers.
We got a taxi once, from the ferry to our Airbnb, and that was it during our stay. For dinners etc we just dressed up and stuck it out on our ATV and when we wanted to drink we used the bus.
Expect to pay around €17–25 for a 10-minute journey, it’s not cheap!
They’re useful if you don’t want to drive, or if you’re heading to dinner and don’t want to worry about parking
www.aegeantaxi.com/milos (can book online)
Taxi numbers (we havn’t used these, so please let us know if they don’t work when you try)
Bonus: Boat Trips and Rentals
One of the best ways to experience Milos is from the water. Many of the island’s most stunning spots — like Kleftiko can only be accessed by boat.
Your options include:
Group boat tours (catamaran or sailing boat, often with lunch included) -
Private boat charters if you want a more exclusive day out
Self-drive boats — You can hire a small boat without a skipper! No licence required for certain boats under a power limit.
We booked a catamaran trip around the island, and it was one of the best days of the trip. Crystal clear water, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of swim stops. Read about it here.
More From Milos
A guide on how to get around Milos. Car hire, ATV, buses and taxis.