Stay Connected in Milos
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Milos offers decent connectivity for a Greek island, though coverage can be patchy in remote areas and some of the more secluded beaches. The main towns of Adamas, Klima, and Plaka have reliable 4G coverage, but expect slower speeds or dropped connections when exploring the island's famous volcanic landscapes and hidden coves. Most accommodations in tourist areas provide WiFi, though quality varies significantly. The island's rugged terrain and scattered settlements mean mobile coverage isn't as complete as mainland Greece or larger islands like Santorini. Plan ahead for connectivity, especially if you're working remotely or need reliable internet access. During peak summer months, network congestion can slow speeds in popular areas as tourist numbers surge.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Milos.
Network Coverage & Speed
Greece's three main mobile networks - Cosmote, Vodafone Greece, and Wind Hellas - all provide coverage on Milos, with Cosmote generally offering the most extensive reach across the island. 4G coverage is solid in Adamas (the main port), Klima, Plaka, and along the main coastal road, but becomes spotty in the island's interior and more remote beaches like Tsigrado or Firopotamos. Expect download speeds of 10-30 Mbps in well-covered areas, dropping to 3G speeds (1-5 Mbps) in peripheral locations. The volcanic terrain can create dead zones, particularly around the sulfur mines area and some hiking trails. Wind Hellas tends to have the weakest coverage on smaller islands, while Vodafone performs reasonably well in tourist zones. Network congestion during July and August can significantly impact speeds, especially in the evening hours when tourists are uploading photos and videos from their day's adventures.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM is increasingly the smart choice for Milos, offering immediate connectivity without hunting for SIM card shops or dealing with language barriers. Services like Airalo provide Greece-specific or Europe-wide plans that activate instantly, perfect for an island where mobile shops are limited. The main advantage is convenience - you arrive connected, which is crucial when navigating to remote accommodations or coordinating ferry schedules. eSIM plans typically cost €15-25 for a week with 3-5GB, more expensive than local SIMs but reasonable considering the hassle saved. The downside is slightly higher costs and you're locked into your chosen plan. However, for most travelers spending a week or two on Milos, the peace of mind and instant connectivity outweigh the extra cost. It's particularly valuable since Milos' SIM card retail options are quite limited compared to major tourist destinations.
Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards on Milos can be purchased in Adamas at a few mobile phone shops, some convenience stores, or occasionally at the port kiosks, though availability isn't guaranteed. You'll need your passport for registration, and activation can take 30 minutes to several hours. Cosmote prepaid plans start around €10-15 for decent data allowances, significantly cheaper than eSIM options. The challenge is finding an open shop - many close for siesta hours and have limited weekend availability. Language barriers can complicate plan selection and troubleshooting. If you do go the local SIM route, buy it immediately upon arrival in Adamas before heading to your accommodation, as options become extremely limited once you leave the main town. Staff English proficiency varies, so having translation apps ready helps. The savings are real - you might pay half the cost of eSIM - but factor in the time and potential frustration.
Comparison
Local SIMs win on cost (roughly 50% cheaper) but lose significantly on convenience and reliability of purchase. eSIM offers instant activation and guaranteed availability but at a premium. Roaming is the most expensive option, potentially 5-10x more costly, though some carriers now offer reasonable daily rates. For most travelers, the €10-15 extra for eSIM is worthwhile insurance against connectivity headaches on an island with limited infrastructure and shop availability.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM through Airalo - you'll arrive connected and avoid the stress of finding SIM shops in an unfamiliar place where options are limited. The extra cost is worth the peace of mind and immediate Google Maps access. Budget travelers: If every euro counts, local SIM cards offer real savings, but buy immediately in Adamas and have a backup plan. For most budget travelers, eSIM's convenience justifies the modest premium. Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM makes financial sense for extended stays, and you'll have time to sort out any activation issues. The monthly savings add up significantly. Business travelers: eSIM is essential - you can't afford to spend your limited time hunting for SIM cards or dealing with activation delays. The immediate connectivity and reliable service justify any cost premium for professional needs.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Milos.
Exclusive discounts: 15% off for new customers • 10% off for return customers