Milos in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Milos

18°C (64°F) High Temp

13°C (55°F) Low Temp

61mm (2.4 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Ferry connections remain reliable with only 2-3 cancellation days per month due to meltemi winds being significantly reduced compared to summer months
Accommodation prices drop 40-60% from peak season rates, with luxury suites in Adamas available for €80-120 versus €300+ in July-August
Popular beaches like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko accessible without crowds - you'll often have iconic photo spots completely to yourself for 30+ minutes
Local tavernas offer winter menus with warming dishes like kokoras krasatos (wine-braised rooster) and fresh seafood at 25-30% lower prices than summer

Considerations

Swimming requires thermal protection - sea temperature drops to 17-19°C (63-66°F) making it uncomfortable for most visitors without wetsuits
Many beach bars, water sports operators, and seasonal restaurants close from November 1st through March, limiting dining and activity options significantly
Daylight hours reduce to just 10 hours daily, with sunset at 5:30pm limiting afternoon beach time and outdoor photography sessions

Best Activities in November

Geological Site Exploration Tours

November's cooler temperatures (18°C/64°F highs) make hiking to Milos' volcanic formations comfortable without summer's scorching heat. The lunar landscape of Sarakiniko is perfect for photography with softer lighting and no crowds blocking iconic white cliff shots. Guided geology walks reveal the island's mining history and volcanic origins - something impossible in 35°C+ summer heat.

Booking Tip: Book geological tours 7-10 days ahead through certified guides, typically costing €35-50 per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Look for guides with geological backgrounds and proper insurance. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Traditional Pottery Workshop Experiences

November marks the return of indoor cultural activities as locals resume traditional crafts after the summer tourism rush. Milos' clay-rich soil produces distinctive ceramics, and workshops run by local artisans offer real feels unavailable during peak season when they focus on tourist sales rather than teaching.

Booking Tip: Contact workshops directly or through cultural centers in Adamas and Plaka. Sessions typically cost €25-40 for 2-3 hours including materials. Book 5-7 days ahead as most operate limited November schedules.

Thermal Springs and Hot Bath Experiences

Cool November air (13-18°C/55-64°F) creates perfect conditions for soaking in natural thermal springs. Paleochori Beach's underwater hot springs feel incredible when air temperatures drop, creating a natural spa experience enhanced by the temperature contrast. Steam rising from hot springs is most visible in cooler months.

Booking Tip: No booking required for natural springs, but guided thermal tours cost €20-35 per person. Access is weather-dependent - strong winds can make coastal springs dangerous. Check conditions daily and avoid during storm warnings.

Wine Cave Tours and Tastings

November coincides with post-harvest celebrations and new wine releases from Milos' volcanic soil vineyards. Cave cellars maintain perfect temperatures year-round, making indoor tastings ideal during variable November weather. Local varieties like Assyrtiko thrive in volcanic ash, producing wines unavailable elsewhere.

Booking Tip: Book wine experiences 3-5 days ahead, costing €15-30 per person for tastings with local cheese pairings. Most wineries offer tours in English by appointment. Transportation often included for groups of 4+.

Photography Workshops and Sunset Sessions

November's lower sun angle creates dramatic golden hour lighting lasting 90+ minutes compared to summer's harsh, brief transitions. Cloudy skies add texture to seascape photography at Kleftiko and Tsigrado. Professional workshops take advantage of empty beaches and optimal lighting conditions impossible during crowded summer months.

Booking Tip: Photography tours cost €40-80 for 4-5 hours including transport to multiple locations. Book 7-10 days ahead through certified guides with local knowledge. Equipment rental often available for €10-15 daily.

Hiking Trail Networks and Coastal Walks

Cool November temperatures make multi-hour hikes comfortable along Milos' 23km (14.3 mile) trail network. The ancient mining trail from Adamas to Klima offers spectacular views without summer's dangerous heat exposure. Wildflowers begin emerging after autumn rains, creating photography opportunities unavailable in dormant summer landscape.

Booking Tip: Guided hiking tours cost €25-45 for half-day experiences covering 5-8km (3.1-5 miles). Self-guided options require proper footwear and weather monitoring. Download offline maps as mobile coverage is limited on remote trails.

November Events & Festivals

October 26

Agios Dimitrios Festival

Local celebration honoring the patron saint with traditional music, communal dining, and cultural performances in village squares. Features authentic local foods like marathopita (fennel pie) and live folk music performances by island musicians.

Mid to Late November

Olive Oil Pressing Season

Traditional olive harvest and pressing activities in local farms, offering authentic agricultural experiences. Visitors can participate in picking and learn traditional pressing methods while sampling new oil with local bread and cheese.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots for volcanic terrain - trails become slippery after rain and sharp pumice requires ankle support

Windproof jacket rated for 25+ mph gusts - November meltemi winds still occur 8-10 days monthly and coastal areas are especially exposed

Quick-dry clothing in layers - humidity reaches 70% and weather changes rapidly between sunny spells and rain showers

Waterproof camera protection - sea spray and sudden showers can damage electronics, especially at coastal viewpoints like Sarakiniko

Thermal underwear for early morning/evening - temperatures drop to 13°C (55°F) and stone buildings retain cold overnight

SPF 30+ sunscreen despite cooler weather - volcanic landscape reflects UV rays and November UV index still reaches 4

Portable phone charger/power bank - limited electrical outlets in remote areas and shorter daylight requires more navigation assistance

Warm sleepwear - traditional accommodations often lack central heating and rely on individual room units

Waterproof day pack for hiking - sudden weather changes require carrying extra layers and protection for belongings

Closed-toe shoes for exploring - volcanic rock is sharp and uneven terrain around geological sites requires proper foot protection

Insider Knowledge

Local buses reduce to winter schedules in November with only 3-4 daily connections between major villages - rent a car or arrange private transfers for maximum flexibility

Fish tavernas offer their best selection in November as commercial fishing increases with calmer seas, but call ahead as many operate limited hours or weekend-only service

Beach parking areas are free in November after summer paid systems close - popular spots like Firopotamos offer easy access without crowds or fees

Morning ferry departures (7-9am) have highest reliability in November weather - afternoon services face higher cancellation risk due to wind buildup

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming swimming will be comfortable - sea temperatures of 17-19°C (63-66°F) require wetsuits for most people and many underestimate how cold Greek seas become

Not checking restaurant opening hours - approximately 60% of seasonal establishments close November 1st and remaining venues often operate reduced schedules

Packing only summer clothes - many visitors underestimate how cool 13°C (55°F) evening temperatures feel, especially with wind and humidity