The top island in Greece that’s considered even better than Corfu, Crete and Santorini

Crete, Santorini and Corfu are usually the first places people think of when planning a holiday to Greece, yet this quieter Cycladic island still manages to appear at the top of many travel lists.

Shaped by earthquakes, tsunamis and underwater volcanic blasts, it has a dramatic past, but today it feels calm and peaceful.

It’s the ideal place for anyone wanting to avoid the huge crowds found on the more famous Greek islands.

Milos was named the best island in Europe in 2019 and the best island in the world in 2021 by Travel & Leisure magazine.

The magazine said the island “attracts couples, people who love the sea, and food fans too”. In Greek mythology, Milos was linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love.

The famous statue Venus de Milo was discovered here, showing just how important the island once was.

Pirates were said to hide in its cliffs and sea caves. With a story like that, it’s no surprise the island is such a special place.

Once home to huge volcanic eruptions, the island is now a peaceful haven surrounded by impressive volcanic scenery, bright white cliffs and clear green waters.

Watching the sunrise at Sarakiniko beach will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Nicknamed the “Moon Beach”, its smooth white rocks sit right next to the deep blue Aegean Sea.

Picture-perfect views in the tiny villages of Klima and Mandrakia are ideal for photos. These traditional fishing spots have pretty seafronts, whitewashed homes with colourful shutters and a relaxed way of life.

In the past, fishermen would pull their boats into the village’s unique and colourful two-storey houses called “syrmata”. Today, many of these old buildings have been turned into small shops where you can pick up a souvenir or two.

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