Milos and Folegandros: Two Hidden Gems in the Greek Islands

While Mykonos and Santorini continue to top travelers’ lists for a Greek island getaway, the lesser-known isles of the Cyclades have quietly gained popularity in recent years — especially among those in search of a more laid-back, less touristed experience. If you’re craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Greece with plenty of sunshine, beach time and the crystal-blue waters for which this region is famous, be sure to add Milos and Folegandros to your bucket list.

Milos, a volcanic wonderland, is known for its dramatic topography and wide variety of outdoor activities. In contrast, Folegandros offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for an authentic and immersive escape. Just an hour apart by ferry, the two islands complement each other beautifully for a relaxed escape. Ciao Bambino’s preferred Greece travel partner, with whom we work to create custom itineraries throughout the country, shared insight into these two beautiful isles with us.

Why Milos and Folegandros Are Two of the Best Hidden Gems in the Greek Islands

Landscape and Natural Beauty

Milos offers a distinctive lunar-style landscape due to its volcanic origins, with picturesque chalk-white rock formations lining the coast. Iconic spots such as Sarakiniko Beach, famous for its smooth, chalk-white cliffs and vivid turquoise waters, and Kleftiko Beach, known for its sea caves and towering rock stacks, invite swimming, snorkeling and photography. As a rule, the beaches on Milos are great for families as they are sandy and easy to access.

Folegandros is sparsely populated with considerably more rugged terrain and a remote atmosphere. The beaches are quieter, but many require hiking or boat trips to reach; therefore, they’re better suited for solo travelers, couples and families with older children.

Activities and Attractions

As the more developed of the two islands, Milos is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy history, water sports and a sense of adventure — it offers a wide variety of active pursuits that will keep all age groups entertained. The most popular experience is a boat tour, which can take you to hidden caves, the striking Kleftiko area and beyond. Kayaking, Jeep safaris and hiking are also engaging ways to explore the island. For day tripping, Milos is just a 45-minute ferry ride from Kimolos, a much smaller isle with fantastic beaches.

Milos is dotted with charming villages and towns, each offering its own character and allure. Plaka, the island’s capital, boasts whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys and panoramic views of the Aegean. Nearby, Trypiti is known for its ancient catacombs (among the oldest in the world) and Roman theater. The tranquil fishing village of Pollonia invites visitors with seaside tavernas and peaceful beaches, while Adamas, the main port, blends modern conveniences with Cycladic charm. Visit Klima, with its colorful boat houses called syrmata, for a glimpse of the island’s maritime history.

Folegandros, while offering fewer organized excursions, invites visitors to immerse themselves in authentic local culture, making it ideal for those seeking a slower pace. Scenic hikes, boat rides to secluded beaches and cooking classes are among the highlights. The island’s main town, Chora, is perched on a cliff with stunning sea vistas and narrow, winding streets filled with whitewashed houses, cafes and boutiques. Karavostasi is the island’s port and a quieter area, with a few tavernas and lovely beaches nearby — it’s a great place for a seafood lunch. The inland village of Ano Meria is known for its stone houses and agricultural heritage as well as places to buy local products like honey, cheeses and olive oil.

Accommodations

As both Milos and Folegandros are newer to the tourism market, luxury accommodation options are limited at the moment. However, here are a few places to consider for your stay. Ciao Bambino’s Travel Advisor team can book these for you with perks such as complimentary upgrades, breakfast credits, early check-in/late check-out and others; reach out for more info.

Milos has two main luxury hotels: Domes White Coast Milos, a boutique property open to ages 16 and up; and Milos Cove. While the latter is beautiful and offers incredible views, it is difficult to access. It’s around a 40-minute drive on a very bumpy road, which could be a deal breaker for some travelers. The Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa is less luxurious but is great for families and sits right on the beach.

Folegrandos has an even more limited portfolio of luxury hotels. Families might enjoy Gundari Resort and can take advantage of its suites with private pools, but note that kids’ amenities are not available. The Anemi Hotel is another good possibility, but despite its 5-star status, it’s not as luxurious as you might find on some of the more popular Greek islands. Anemi is best suited for couples or honeymooners.

Food & Dining

Both Milos and Folegandros are known for their fresh seafood and local tavernas, and dining in either destination is as much about the laid-back ambiance and scenery as it is about the delicious homestyle dishes. Signature dishes on Milos include savoro, fried fish in a tangy vinegar-based sauce; roasted goat or lamb marinated in belte (a rich tomato paste); and gardolazana, a handmade pasta. The island is also known for its delightful sweets, such as koufeto, made with pumpkin, honey and almonds. Other local favorites include grilled cow’s cheese topped with honey, sun-dried and grilled octopus, and psari plaki, a hearty baked fish dish infused with herbs and vegetables.

On Folegandros, enjoy highlights like local cheeses and sweet pies — two favorites are kolokithenia, made with pumpkin, and karpouzenia, made with watermelon. The island’s signature dish is matsata, homemade pasta typically served with cockerel or rabbit, alongside other specialties like pastelli (sesame and honey bars) and chortenia (a pie with greens).

When to Go

In general, the tourism season on both islands begins in late May and runs through the end of September. June and September are perfect months to travel, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are more manageable. July and August are busiest, especially on Milos, and hottest; this is also when Greeks tend to travel to these islands for their vacations.

Accessibility

Milos has an airport for domestic flights and is easily accessible by ferry from other Cycladic islands, lending appeal for travelers who want to experience as many islands as possible during their time in Greece. Folegandros, on the other hand, requires more extensive preparation, as the island has no airport and is accessible only by ferry. It is best to combine Folegandros with Santorini or Milos for ease of getting to and from the mainland. While there’s a ferry from Athens, the ride can take a full 5 hours and eat up most of a vacation day.

The Bottom Line

If you are traveling as a family, love history, are looking for adventure and are interested in a mix of luxury and authentic experiences, we recommend Milos. If you’re a couple, solo traveler or adult group of travelers seeking hiking, seclusion and off-path experiences, Folegandros is the better bet.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and activities in Greece on Ciao Bambino

Top Greek islands for families: How to choose the best match

Slow travel and authentic charm on Naxos and Paros

A week in the realm of Greek gods: Visiting Crete with kids

72 hours in Athens, Greece with kids

Acropolis views at St. George Lycabettus Lifestyle Hotel

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.