The emerald-green sparkle in the Sporades, a chic crowd, first-rate beaches and a rich history bring an irresistible glow to the lush green island of Skiathos, one of the sparkling gems of the Sporades islands.
From its deep green trees to its rockin’ bars and restaurants, the island of Skiathos invites you to share its distinctive and spirited vibe. Perfect for those who demand high standards, it has long been a premier destination for cosmopolitan travellers, particularly those on yachts and sailboats cruising the Mediterranean. At its lively marina, boats of all kinds – many available for private charter – are docked side by side. Meanwhile, the beach service of Skiathos is flawless. Nights in the main town, Hora, are lively and fun and Lalaria and Koukounaries rank among the most spectacular beaches in Greece. The 14th-century castle, the habitat of Strofilias, the caves… there’s beauty at every turn. Youthful and exuberant, Skiathos is an island on which you can be sure that the locals will go out of their way to make your stay unforgettable!
Famous for its green hillsides and iridescent blue swimming spots, Skiathos is an island that knows how to seduce visitors keen to fill up on sun-and-beach time. There’s another gem in its treasure chest that you’ll love discovering. And if you are traveling by ferry, it will be your first and last impression of this gorgeous island. Skiathos town is where you’ll find most of the island’s life. It’s filled with shops, bars and cafes, as well as restaurants and tavernas and all the other amenities you’ll need for your holidays in Skiathos. Just strolling along the waterfront (including the Old and New Port and the Bourtzi peninsula) is special, but you’ll also adore exploring the maze of alleyways of tightly packed whitewashed houses. It feels like every time you turn a corner, you’ll find another adorable little spot or a bougainvillea-filled courtyard. So join us as we explore the highlights of Skiathos town!
Discover the boundless beauty of Lalaria beach. The dazzlingly beautiful Lalaria beach is one of the landmarks that put Skiathos on the map. Prepare for crystal-clear waters, smooth white pebbles, steep cliffs that plunge into the sea. Little boats, yachts and day cruises bring visitors here to experience its splendour.
Be seduced by the charms of Koukounaries beach. The second-most talked about beach of Skiathos. Koukounaries is famous for its golden sand and is a seemingly endless beach, considered one of the most naturally beautiful in the Mediterranean. It is embraced by a dense pine forest, behind which is Lake Strofilias, a unique habitat that is home to a variety of rare birds.
Entering the port of Skiathos, you are welcomed by Bourtzi, a pine-wood islet that is home to the ruins of a 13th-century Venetian fortress. Across the way, Skiathos’ main town, Hora, rises up from the shore like an amphitheatre, with its cluster of homes with blossom-red rooftops.
Feel the pulse of Papadiamanti St, the island’s heartbeat. This is the main meeting point every night on Skiathos and where your holidays will take on the rhythm of the island. Cafes and bars throb with life, while restaurants, tavernas and stylish boutiques are sure to entice you in.
Known as the “patron saint of modern Greek literature”, Papadiamantis was an influential Greek writer. Here’s your chance to find out more about this towering figure. Born on Skiathos, his work frequently features his birthplace. You will discover in his stories another side to the island, as it was in the 19th century. The Papadiamantis house-museum is located right in the centre of Hora.
Sail away to Skiathos’ castle in the north. Although also accessible by land, a great way to arrive at beautiful, isolated Kastro (Castle) is by boat. (Tours leave from the town daily.) Located in the northern part of the island, it was built in the 14th century to protect the locals from pirates. Today, its mystical allure is captivating. Admire the art in two of the 22 surviving churches and marvel at the murals depicting the Nativity of Christ and the ceramics of St Nicholas.
The iconic watchtower. Pagan altar, Christian spire or Venetian castle? Find the circular building at Pyrgi, hidden among the oaks, and let your imagination run wild.
The monastery of Evangelistria. The stone walls make it look like a monastery on Mount Athos. Located on the northeastern tip of Skiathos island, it has been there since 1794.
The island of Skiathos has approximately 60 beaches along its coastline. You can find both large shorelines with beach bars and quieter secluded beaches and coves. It is also the birthplace of Alexandros Papadiamantis. It has a population of around 5,000.
Explore an infinite ring of beaches. There are so many terrific beaches around Skiathos that you’ll be scratching your head about where to go first. Here’s a sample of some of the names to pique your interest: Big Banana (that got your attention!), Troullos, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa, Xanemos and Megalos Aselinos. With beach bars, water-front tavernas, umbrellas, sunbeds and watersports, Skiathos’ beaches have your maximum comfort and enjoyment as their primary design feature!
The sea caves of Skiathos. Holidays mean adventure and exploration and, so, the sea caves of Skiathos await! As long as you have a boat (and it’s easy to hire one with a skipper) Pounta, Fonissa and Altanous are all waiting to be discovered.
How to Get There :
Skiathos has an airport with regular direct flights to Athens and international arrivals during the busier months. There are regular ferries from mainland Volos to Rhodes throughout the year, with daily routes from the port of Volos City or Agios Nikolaos and connections with the other Sporades Islands (Skopelos & Alonissos).
Famous For :
You could be forgiven for believing that all of the best things to do in Skiathos revolve around the fact that it has some of the most magnificent white-sand beaches in the Aegean (Koukounaries & Lalaria has both been voted best in Europe). However, the island also attracts foodies and history buffs with its fascinating museums and a plethora of welcoming tavernas.
