One island to visit from Santorini is the exotic and otherworldly Milos. The two islands are only 52 nautical miles apart (about 96 km), and there is a good ferry connection.
Milos is a must-visit island, with wild rocky beaches resembling moonscapes and the most turquoise crystal waters. While in Santorini, don’t miss the opportunity to discover Milos. Some of its highlights include Sarakiniko and Kleftiko beaches with pristine waters and wild beauty, or the seaside village of Pollonia for the cosmopolitan, warm atmosphere.
Here’s all you need to know on how to get from Santorini to Milos:
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Getting from Santorini to Milos
Fly from Santorini to Milos indirectly
Although the distance between Santorini and Milos is approximately 95 kilometers, there are no direct flights from one island to another.
Usually, it will take you about 5 hours to get from Santorini’s airport (JTR) to Milos Airport (MLO). The quickest flight option might take up to 3 hours with one stop.
You can find about 30 weekly flights, although this varies according to seasonality, availability, and holiday periods. The prices usually range from 20 Euros to more than 200 Euros, depending on seat availability, ferry company, and how well in advance you book.
Generally, the route is serviced by Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Sky Express, and Ryanair.
Take the ferry from Santorini to Milos
The most common way to get to Milos from Santorini is by ferry. This is not only a cheap but also a convenient option, available throughout the year without fuss. You can find up to 7 weekly crossings from Santorini all year round, with schedules almost every day, especially during summertime.
The ferry companies operating this route are Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Sea Speed Ferries, Aegeon Pelagos, and Zante Ferries, with prices ranging from 16.50 to 73.8 Euros, depending on season, ferry type, availability, and seats.
The trip can last anywhere between 2 hours with the fast speed and 5 hours with the regular ferry.
Find further details on ferry schedules and book your tickets here.
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Charter a sailing boat
If you have the time and the budget, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the real island-hopping experience by sailing around the Cyclades. There are many sailing itineraries available for organized tours that usually depart from Athens and move around the islands, where you can catch the rest of the trip. Take the route from Santorini and explore the Cycladic beauty.
Sailing Greece Yachts offers such route options, with trips starting from Alimos marina, and stopping by Cape Sounion, Kea, Syros, Mykonos, Amorgos, Santorini, Ios, Folegandros, Milos, Sifnos, Serifos, and other islands.
Alternatively, you can try daily or multiple-day sailing trips around Milos to get to secluded spots and find unknown beaches.
How to get around Milos Island
Arrived in wonderful Milos and eager to explore more of it? Milos has a lot of places worth putting on your basket list, as well as remote gems for adventurers and nature lovers. Find out all you need to know on how to get around the island below:
Rent a car
A safe option would be renting a car and having the freedom of movement around the island. You can also rent a motorcycle if you have a license, for ease, economy, and flexibility.
You can rent your own private vehicle by renting from local contractors or travel agencies. Alternatively, there are several platforms that can help you compare prices, find offers, and find what’s best for you according to your needs.
I recommend booking a car through Discover Cars where you can compare all rental car agencies’ prices, and you can cancel or modify your booking for free. They also guarantee the best price. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.
Take the public bus
The cheapest way, per usual, to move around the island is to take the public bus, also known as KTEL. You can find frequent bus schedules, especially during summertime, and low bus fares for affordable transportation.
The central terminal is in Adamas, and stops include Triovasalos, Plaka, Trypiti, Pollonia, Paliochori, Achivadolimni, Sarakiniko, and Provatas, and other destinations.
You can find the detailed timetable for each month here.
Hop on a Taxi
You always have the alternative of a taxi service, if you want to go somewhere fast without waiting for the local bus.
You can find taxi hubs in various spots in the center, including taxi stations in central Chora or the port of Adamas.
Alternatively, you can call: +30 22870-22219, 697 4205 605 or visit Milos Taxis.
FAQ About Your Trip from Santorini to Milos
You can take the ferry from Milos to Santorini. The route is operated by Golden Star Ferries and Seajets, and the trip lasts about 2 hours. The prices start from 17 Euros for regular ferries and 50 Euros for fast-speed ferries.
You can find many weekly ferry crossings from Santorini to Mykonos. Sailing time varies on the ferry company and vessel type but it generally takes between 2 hours and 3 hours to arrive in Mykonos.
Although it is one of the best Greek island destinations, Milos can retain its character despite a recent spike in tourists. There are lots to see and the prices remain reasonable. If you want to avoid the crowds, avoid the high season, especially July and August.
Depending on your needs and interests, the best time to visit Milos varies. If you want peace and quiet away from the fuss, opt for May, early June, and late September. For partying and socializing, visit Milos in July and August.
Milos has lots to discover and visit, but generally, it is considered a small island. You can discover Milos in three days, but if you want to see more of its beauty, 5-7 days would be ideal.