What's the best time to visit Milos?
The best time to visit Milos is during the summer months of June to August when the island’s magnificent beaches are at their finest. It’s the perfect time for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
We love this time becasue you can immerse yourself in the island’s culture by attending traditional local feasts known as “panigiria,” where you can interact with locals and observe their customs and dances.
The best time to visit Milos largely depends on the type of holiday you’re after. Are you looking to explore the island’s beaches during Milos’ high season?
Maybe you don’t mind the chilly weather and would consider heading to the island in the off-season? How about going easy on your wallet and taking advantage of the island’s least expensive months?
In our guide below, we’ll suggestions for visiting Milos all year round to help you choose the most optimal time for you.
The Overall Best Time to Visit Milos
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The best time to visit Milos is during the island’s peak season, which is in summer (June–August), the majestic beaches being the main reason for it.
From basking in the sun and relaxing in the sea to more dynamic beach hopping, kayaking, or snorkeling, Milos’ summer seasons have you covered. At night, you can catch the sunsets at the church right above Plaka, Panagia Thalassitra, and take some Insta-worthy photos.
Milos, just like most islands in the country, has plenty of local feasts known as “panigiria.” Being traditional festivities, these gatherings usually include a myriad of food and wine.
As a visitor, you not only get the chance to interact with locals but also observe common customs and learn a few local dances. When done right, the panagiria may very well be the highlight of your island stay.
During summer, here are some panagiria to look out for: Agia Marina (16 July), Profitias Illias (19 July), Agios Panteleimonas (26/27 July), Dormition of the Mother of God and Feast of the Holy and Glorious Hieromartyr Haralambos (15 August), and three panigiria at Kipos, Komia, and Trypiti (22 August).
Those looking for more dynamic festivities should definitely come at the beginning of July and enjoy the well-known Milos Festival.
An established event, the Milos Festival allows visitors to engage in a plethora of events ranging from concerts and theatre performances to book and painting exhibitions. Milos’ summers welcome travelers with temperatures varying between 68°F and 80°F.
Last but not least, if summers on Milos seem to resonate with your holiday expectations, make sure to book your stay in advance, as there’s high demand at this time. Also, expect higher prices as opposed to low season rates.
That said, Milos isn’t as expensive as other Greek islands, so chances are that no matter when you arrive, your holiday isn’t going to cost a fortune, which brings us to the next point.
Cheapest Time to Visit Milos
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The cheapest time to visit Milos is during one of the island’s shoulder periods, in the fall (September–October).
Apart from the reduced accommodation rates, you can also swim, as the weather’s still pleasant, especially in September. September and October visitors should expect temperatures hovering around 79°F during the day and 61°F at night.
With school back in the game, crowds dwindle too, allowing island visitors to soak in everything Milos has to offer without fighting the busy crowds.
Also, hiking and sightseeing at this time are better, thanks to the pleasant climate. Local restaurants offer much more reasonable prices, so eating your way through the island can prove to be a truly special experience.
Popular hiking routes include Trypiti – Catacombs – Ancient Theatre – Profitis Ilias – Venus of Milos, Cape Vani – Agia Marina, Pollonia – Fylakopi and Trypiti – Catacombs – Milos Theatre – Klima.
Keep in mind that each of these routes comes with a different level of hiking difficulty, so make sure to pick the one which corresponds with your skills and current stamina the most.
Panigiria aren’t just a summer thing — you can enjoy them in other parts of the year too.
If you visit in the fall, here are the ones to be on the lookout for: Ayios Sostis (6 September), Panayia Eleoussa (7 September), Panayia Korfiatissa (8 September), Stavros (13 September), and Ayios Ionnis (16 September).
These are the perfect events to feel Greek’s warm hospitality while enjoying Cycladic music and trying local delicacies.
Least Busy Time to Visit Milos
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The least busy time to visit Milos is in the spring, from March to May. While Milos isn’t the greenest island possible, its majestic landscapes in spring will still mesmerize you.
The seawater temperature in spring is far from enjoyable, but if you’re brave enough, you may give swimming a try sometime in May. The relatively empty island allows you to not only explore the island and its villages at your own pace but also take postcard-worthy photos.
Hiking is also great at this time, just as during springtime. Those looking to have an authentic cultural stay on Milos should consider heading there during the Greek Easter celebrations.
Although Milos doesn’t have plenty of Easter traditions like other places in Greece, it still offers plenty of fireworks, special dishes, and other interesting customs. Spring temperatures on Milos vary between 50°F and 73°F.
Worst Time to Visit Milos
Milos, Greece, May 18, 2017: Young people driving quads on road. Quad is very popular means of transport on Milos island. Greece./vivooo/Shutterstock
The worst time to visit Milos is in the winter, from December to February. Not all businesses remain open, activities are limited, ferry/air services are drastically reduced, and many areas become all but deserted.
Ferries are frequently canceled thanks to the harsh winter winds, so flying may be a much better option if you’re on a tight schedule.
Rain isn’t very frequent, but in any case, it’s far more common than during summer. That said, visiting Milos in winter can be a true blessing if you wish to see the real island — without the peak season prices, tourist crowds, and large queues.
Plus, you can always escape the chilly weather by engaging in some fun indoor activities such as museum hopping, having a fun afternoon at the Konstantakis Cave Winery, and getting a massage. Winter temperatures on the island mean average lows of 48°F and highs of 59°F.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Milos?
| 👍 Best Time to Visit | June to August |
| 💲 Cheapest Time to Visit | September to October |
| 🗓️ Least Busy Time to Visit | March to May |
| 👎 Worst Time to Visit | December to February |
- The overall best time to visit Milos is in summer (June–August). The temperatures are hot, the island’s busy, and there are summer events at every corner. However, this is when the prices on the island are at their highest.
- Trying to save some money, yet you’re keen to make it to Milos? Consider heading in the fall (September–October). The least busy time to visit Milos is in spring (March–May). These months are ideal for travelers who wish to enjoy Milos without having to deal with the peak season crowds.
- We suggest avoiding winters on Milos (December–February). Winters on Milos can’t compete with summer’s glow, events, and overall island vibe. That said, opting for indoor activities and experiencing the island like a local might be just the stay you need.
All in all, irrespective of which season you pick, you’ll be welcomed by friendly locals, tasty food, amazing sites, stunning beach views, and more activities that can actually fit into a single trip.
So with so much to see and do on Milos, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Milos trip today!