Milas Hotels

Most Milas hotels located by the sea or close to the sea have their own beach. With the deep blue sea in front of you and the lush pine forests behind you, you will find peace and relaxation. There are also many accommodation options in Milas. If you want to stay in a big hotel, you can stay in Muğla Milas hotels or pensions that serve in the style of boutique hotels and small hotels. Whichever hotel you stay in, you will be close to the sea and have a sea view. Many activities await you during your vacation in Muğla Milas. You can visit the city, take a boat tour and see the nearby bays, visit the Temple of Zeus, one of the oldest monuments of the city, and take lots of photos with your camera. You will also have the chance to taste the famous olive oil flavors of Aegean Cuisine in the kitchen of Muğla Milas hotels. Although there is a slight increase in prices during the summer season, Muğla Milas boutique hotels appeal to all budgets. You can see the most suitable Muğla Milas hotel for your taste and budget on our website. 

When to Visit Milas?

The best time to travel to Milas is usually during the spring and autumn months. These periods offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds at tourist sites. In spring, especially in March and April, nature awakens and flowers begin to bloom. In autumn, during September and October, the sea is still warm, but the air is cooler and places are less crowded, making it a perfect time to visit.

How to Get to Milas?

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can reach Milas via Muğla city center and then use local transport. Especially in summer, many bus companies run direct trips to Milas. If you choose to fly, the nearest airport is Bodrum-Milas Airport, located about 15 kilometers from Milas town center. If you're driving, you can use the İzmir-Aydın highway to reach Milas.

Some distance and time estimates:

• Muğla – Milas: ~65 km, about 1 hour
• Aydın – Milas: ~95 km, about 1.5 hours
• Istanbul – Milas: ~740 km, about 10 hours
• Bursa – Milas: ~510 km, about 6 hours 40 minutes
• İzmir – Milas: ~190 km, about 2.5 hours

Must-See Places in Milas

Milas offers many places to explore, rich in history and natural beauty. You can visit Iasos Village, also known as Kıyıkışlacık, home to the world-renowned Iasos Ruins, located directly across from Güllük Bay. Visit Ören-Keramos, about 45 km from the center, which is famous for paragliding and also offers hiking and mountaineering. You can also take short trips to nearby destinations like Güllük and Bodrum. Explore the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology and see the famous Bodrum houses. Visit the Labranda Ancient City, one of the oldest settlements of the ancient Carian civilization. Discover the traditional Milas houses scattered throughout the district. See the Uzunyuva Monumental Tomb and the Sarcophagus of Hecatomnus, dedicated to Menandros during the Roman period. Spend time at Lake Bafa, and enjoy a relaxing day in Milas town center and its market.

Shopping in Milas

Carpets and Kilims: Milas is renowned for its carpet weaving tradition. You’ll find a wide variety of handwoven Milas carpets and kilims in local shops.
Antiques and Handicrafts: Antique stores and artisan workshops offer antiques, handmade ceramics, jewelry, and various crafts—especially around the historical bazaars.
Olive Oil and Local Products: Milas is surrounded by olive groves. Locally made olive oil, cheeses, jams, dried fruits, and other regional specialties can be found in local markets and farmers’ bazaars.

Entertainment & Activities in Milas

Paragliding: For an aerial view of Milas’s stunning scenery, try paragliding on suitable days.
Diving and Snorkeling: There are opportunities to dive or snorkel in nearby coves. Certified divers can join guided tours from local diving centers.

History of Milas

The name “Milas” is said to originate from the ancient Carian city of Mylasa, which in turn was named after Mylasos, the son of Chrysaor, grandson of Sisyphus and Aeolus. According to the historian Strabo, Mylasa was one of the three major cities of inland Caria. The city was founded in the 5th century BCE, later came under Persian rule, and became the capital of the Menteşe Beylik in the 13th century. The Ottomans also held it in high regard. Today, Milas is Muğla’s second-largest district, known for its rich historical heritage found all across the region.

Milas has a typical Mediterranean climate, and its economy relies heavily on agriculture, livestock, carpet weaving, and tourism.

What Is Milas Famous For?

Milas is internationally known for its carpets. Even centuries ago, Milas carpets adorned the palaces of the Ottoman Empire. These carpets are characterized by unique Turkish motifs and beautiful natural dyes.

Another cultural feature is the old Milas houses, dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, with unique architecture. These homes typically have two floors and a courtyard. You can also find old houses with European architectural styles built by Hungarian and Italian immigrants during the early Republic period.

Milas is also famous for its crystal-clear sea and stunning beaches. Its streets are filled with colorful flowers and the scent of the sea. It attracts local and international tourists all year round.

Best Beaches to Swim in Milas

• Güllük Beach: Located in the coastal town of Güllük, great for swimming and sunbathing.
• Ören Beach: Famous for its turquoise waters and long sandy shores, perfect for enjoying water sports.
• Didim Beach: Close to Milas, Didim is known for its long, wide beaches.
• Kıyıkışlacık Beach: North of Milas, a calm and natural spot for a peaceful beach day.

Top Things to Do in Milas

Spend your day sunbathing on stunning beaches or join a daily boat tour to explore the coves and nearby towns. Hike in nature, go on a picnic, or try activities like paragliding, sailing, canoeing, trekking, or scuba diving. Wander around the town center and traditional markets. Photograph Milas houses, buy unique Milas carpets, and enjoy fresh fish and Aegean appetizers at seaside restaurants in the evening. Visit ancient cities and ruins around Milas, or take a trip to nearby resort towns like Bodrum and Güllük. Spend a relaxing day at Lake Bafa, go for a walk around the lake, and enjoy nature.

Eating and Drinking Suggestions in Milas

In Milas cuisine, which has the characteristics of Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil and vegetables are at the forefront. Various herbs grown in the region and herb dishes, salads, dishes with olive oil are the main foods of the regional cuisine. Some of the local dishes of Milas are roasted cıntar, stuffed squash blossom, göce tarhana, boiled radish, hibiscus dish, Milas meatballs, tray pastry, borani, flower frying, roasted quiche, roasted quiche, çökertme, which are interesting with their name and taste. Apart from these, in Milas, being a touristic region, you can find snacks such as toast and flatbread, fast food restaurants, grilled meat and chicken products, kebabs, pita bread and lahmacun in many places.