We all know Santorini, Mykonos and Paros are beautiful, right? We agree that they are all top destinations for your summer vacation. But what about the real Greece, somewhere undiscovered and far from mass tourism.

Take Milos, for example, a relatively unknown island; it's secluded, authentic and breathtaking.

Also known as Milo, this rare Greek pearl in the heart of the Aegean is famous as the location where Venus, one of the most beautiful statues of antiquity and a symbol of classic feminine beauty, was found in the 19th century. However, today it is kept at the Louvre Museum in Paris - but that's another story.

But anyway, don't worry if you have chosen another Cycladic island for your holidays, such as Santorini - they're all beautiful and within easy reach of each other.

So our proposal is this: you get ready for your day trip, and we'll take care of your ferry!

What to see and do in one day on Milos:

1. The best beaches
2. The villages and fort of Kastro
3. The Mining Museum
4. Boat excursion

Before discovering Milos, the advice is to book the return ferry, allowing yourself as much time as possible on the island. So buy your tickets independently online using our ferry portal; it's quick and easy to explore different options.

However, when choosing your departure and return times, remember that the ferry from Santorini to Milos takes approximately two hours.

Buy your ticket now

1. The most beautiful beaches

Let's start with a fact: did you know that, of all the Cyclades islands, Milos has the most beaches? With around 75 beaches, you will undoubtedly find what you have always dreamed of on Milos - and who knows, the beaches may even exceed your expectations.

One day would not be enough to visit them all, so we wanted to tell you about some of the island's most popular and famous beaches. In any case, there are idyllic and unforgettable landscapes all over the island.

Let's start with Provatas, where you will find a long stretch of sand: the perfect place for those who like long walks by the sea and for families with children. Paliochori, on the other hand, is a sand and pebble beach in the shape of an amphitheater set against the backdrop of tall red cliffs. Located on the southern coast, Paliochori stands out as the largest, it features various restaurants where you can taste one of Milos's culinary specialities, slow-cooked lamb, that uses geothermal heat from the sand.

You've probably already seen the next beach in photos, as Tsigrado is the most photographed beach on the island. Unfortunately, it is pretty wild and tricky to reach. But once you get there, you will undoubtedly feel like you're in the Caribbean. But to avoid going down treacherously steep ladders, we recommend getting there by boat. Another excuse for a tour of the island from the sea!

Other beaches you shouldn't miss are Firiplaka, Papafragkas or Sarakiniko, where you'll feel like you've landed on the moon!

2. The villages and the fortress of Kastro

Picturesque villages, dream beaches and ancient ruins are the essential ingredients that make the Greek islands unique. We have already said so much about the beaches, and the Venus of Milos reigns supreme among the ancient ruins, but which are the prettiest villages on the island?

The seaside village of Adamas is located at the port you arrive at. Walking through the narrow streets of this small village, you will find many bars and shops, so you're in the right place if you're looking for souvenirs.

Then there is Klima, once a fishing village; it is a must-see for anyone visiting the island famous for its pastel shades! Then Mandrakia, with its characteristic church overlooking the sea. Trypiti has windmills, and finally, Plaka, a charming picture postcard village, is quintessentially Greek. Built on a high cliff, Plaka is undoubtedly one of the best places to watch the sunset. It is also a historically significant site on which the ancient city of Milo once stood - it was destroyed by the Athenians and rebuilt by the Romans.

Head for the Kastro Fortress to reach Plaka's highest point, where the ancient church of Messa Panagia stands.

3. The Mining Museum

You will notice that everything in Milos recalls its volcanic origins.

But for a bit of culture, we recommend visiting the Milos Mining Museum, which traces the island's history and mining wealth; you can learn about the geological past going back to the Neolithic period.

If, on the other hand, you want to dedicate your day in Milos to pure relaxation, then enjoy a hot thermal bath at Adamas or Paleochori Beach.

4. Boat excursion

When visiting a Greek island, there is nothing more perfect than a boat trip. And this is especially true on an island like Milos, which is famous for its beaches and the contrast between the beautiful blue sea and white rocks. From a boat, the views are all the more spectacular!

An excursion along the coast will also give you easy access to the otherwise inaccessible caves, deserted inlets, and paradise beaches.

Furthermore, all boat trips departing from the port of Adamas include visiting the stacks of Kleftiko and the cave of Sykia. A boat trip is a must and will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Just a day, perhaps even an hour, will be enough for you to fall in love with this island. And you will see that you will be dying to return and spend all your holidays there next year.

Santorini this summer, Milos next - easy, right?

So hurry up and book your ticket today for this yet-to-be-discovered earthly paradise. Yes, even just for one day!

Click here to depart from Santorini