From Crete: Milos Island Day Trip with High-Speed Ferry

Discover the stunning volcanic landscapes and charming villages of Milos Island on an exciting day trip from Crete. This tour offers a roundtrip journey that combines comfortable high-speed ferry travel, guided visits to iconic sites, and free time to explore picturesque villages. Starting from Rethymno, the tour includes stops at Sarakiniko beach, famous for its lunar-like rocks, and the Aggeria mines, one of the largest bentonite mines in the world. The tour also takes you to Pollonia, a lovely fishing village perfect for a swim and seafood lunch, and Plaka, the charming capital with narrow alleys and bright blue domes.

This 12 to 16-hour adventure is ideal for lovers of geology, scenic views, and Greek island charm. The tour features modern transport, air-conditioned buses, and expert guides. While the full-day schedule ensures a rich experience, it’s worth noting the duration and timing may be demanding for some travelers. This trip suits those eager to see Milos’ highlights in a single day, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and cultural insight.

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Crete to Milos, lasting 12 to 16 hours with ferry, transportation, and guided visits.
• Highlights include Sarakiniko beach, known for its lunar volcanic formations, and the Aggeria mines—a major bentonite mining site.
• Visit Pollonia village for a swim, seafood lunch, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
• Explore Plaka, the picturesque capital with narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and blue domes.
• Travel in comfort on a high-speed ferry and air-conditioned buses, with a live guide explaining Milos’ geology and history.
• Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The High-Speed Ferry from Rethymno to Milos

The tour begins at Rethymno port, where travelers board a modern high-speed vessel for a 2.5-hour cruise across the Aegean Sea. The onboard experience includes a refreshing drink or snack, with ample space to enjoy the views of the water and surrounding islands. The ferry provides a smooth, scenic ride that sets the tone for the day ahead.

This mode of transport is a real highlight, offering a quick and comfortable way to reach Milos while enjoying the sea breeze. It’s a firm favorite for those who appreciate a scenic start to their island adventure, though travelers should be prepared for the sea crossing if prone to seasickness.

Visiting Sarakiniko Beach’s Lunar Landscape

Sarakiniko is the first major stop upon arrival at Milos. This famous beach is renowned for its white volcanic rock formations that resemble a moon-like landscape. The one-hour stay allows plenty of time to take photos, walk among the rocks, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The setting feels surreal, with white cliffs contrasting the bright blue sea.

This site appeals to photographers and nature lovers alike, offering a unique visual experience. The area is easily accessible, but visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Sarakiniko’s striking scenery makes it one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

The Significance of the Aggeria Mines

Next, a 15-minute drive takes visitors to the Aggeria mines, one of the largest bentonite mines globally. This quick stop provides insight into Milos’ geological importance. The guided tour reveals how bentonite is mined and processed, showcasing Milos’ role in global mineral production.

While the stop is brief, it offers an educational glimpse into the island’s geological uniqueness. It’s perfect for those interested in geology or mining, and the scenic view on the way adds to the experience. Visitors should expect a short walk around the mining area and some photo opportunities.

Relaxing at Pollonia Fishing Village

The tour then moves to Pollonia, a charming fishing village centered around a calm bay. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore the narrow alleys, stroll along the seaside promenade, or enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the tavernas.

Pollonia’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic setting make it a favorite for a refreshing swim or simply soaking in the Greek island vibe. The village’s local character and seaside views are ideal for taking photos or sitting down for a leisurely meal. It’s a peaceful break during the busy day, with options to shop or relax by the water.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Plaka’s Traditional Charm

The last stop before heading back to Rethymno is Plaka, the main town of Milos. With a 1 hour and 45-minute stay, visitors can wander through whitewashed streets, admire the bright blue domes, and browse local shops. Built on slopes of volcanic rock, Plaka offers panoramic vistas of the island and sea.

This picturesque village embodies the classic Cycladic style, making it perfect for walking, shopping, or just soaking up the atmosphere. The narrow alleys and colorful bougainvilleas add to its charm. It’s a fitting finale for the day, offering plenty of photo opportunities and relaxed exploration.

Returning by Ferry and Bus

After visiting Plaka, the group boards the ferry back to Rethymno, enjoying another 2.5-hour cruise. This peaceful return offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the last views of the sea.

Back at Adamantas port, the tour concludes with a bus transfer to the original pickup point. The overall pacing balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule and long hours of travel.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (where available), all taxes, and travel insurance with Allianz. It does not cover meals and drinks, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase at stops.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, hat, swimwear, and a camera. The walking involved on uneven terrain at Sarakiniko and Plaka means suitable footwear is essential. Smoking is not permitted during the tour, and travelers should stay hydrated.

Who Will Enjoy This Milos Day Trip

This tour suits those interested in geology, scenic landscapes, and Greek village charm. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see multiple highlights in a single day. The long hours and multiple stops mean it’s best for those comfortable with a full schedule.

Since the tour involves seasickness-prone individuals and people with mobility issues, it may not be suitable for everyone. However, the well-paced itinerary and comfortable transport ensure a smooth experience for most.

Summary of the Milos Island Day Trip

This full-day tour from Crete offers an immersive introduction to Milos’ volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites. The high-speed ferry is a highlight, providing a quick and scenic crossing of the Aegean. The stops at Sarakiniko, Pollonia, and Plaka showcase the island’s diverse beauty, from lunar-like rocks to seaside tavernas to brightly painted streets.

While the schedule is packed, the combination of guided tours and free time makes it a rich, varied experience. For travelers eager to see Milos in a day, this tour balances scenery, culture, and relaxation, with expert guides helping make the most of every stop. It’s a great choice for geology fans, photographers, or those simply wanting to enjoy a taste of Milos’ charm without the need to stay overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry ride from Rethymno to Milos?
The ferry ride lasts 2.5 hours each way, offering a relaxing and scenic crossing across the Aegean Sea.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Sarakiniko beach, the Aggeria mines, Pollonia fishing village, and Plaka, the island’s main town.

Is this tour suitable for those prone to seasickness?
Since the journey involves sea crossings on a high-speed ferry, it may not be ideal for individuals prone to seasickness.

What should I bring on this trip?
Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, swimwear, and a camera. Don’t forget to stay hydrated.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to buy food during the stops or bring snacks.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included where specified, but only from designated meeting points, not directly from private accommodations.

This detailed overview highlights what makes the Crete to Milos day trip a compelling choice for those wanting a full, scenic, and culturally enriching day on one of Greece’s most distinctive islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby