Skiathos is a small island in the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea. More lively than its neighbors Alonissos, Skyros and Skopelos, it has many natural and cultural assets to offer. With its heavenly beaches, numerous hiking trails, historic monuments and festive capital, it’sthe ideal destination for enjoying the charms of a Greek island. Get your sun cream and walking shoes ready: we’ll take you on a tour of 8 reasons to visit the island of Skiathos!
A word of warning: the island is a victim of its own success during the summer season, from July 15 to August 15.
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- 1. Stroll the lively streets of Skiathos’ capital city
- 2. Lounging on stunningly beautiful beaches
- 3. Take a cruise to discover coves and beaches
- 4. Enter spectacular sea caves
- 5. Hiking in splendid natural landscapes
- 6. Discover the Bourtzi peninsula and its Venetian fortress
- 7. Visit the home of the great Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis
- 8. Dive into history at the Evangelistria monastery
1. Stroll the lively streets of Skiathos’ capital city
Visiting the island of Skiathos often begins with a visit to its capital: the town of Skiathos, also known as Chora, as is often the case on Greek islands. Located in the south-east of the island, it is built in a staircase around a splendid bay. From the sea rises a delightful maze of narrow streets lined with superb white houses of traditional architecture.
Visit the island of Skiathos, things to do and see :
- The old port: one of the city’s most beautiful spots. It is the economic and cultural heart of Skiathos. Very lively in the evening, don’t hesitate to have a cocktail and enjoy the view of the boats! Strolling along the old port, you’ll also discover the remains of the ancient fortress of Bourtzi, which stands on a small island at the entrance to the port. This Venetian fortress offers breathtaking views of the port and surrounding Aegean Sea.
- Plakes : Located just behind the harbor, this is the ideal place to sample local dishes while enjoying the warm, friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood. Take a stroll through the old cobbled streets and traditional houses.
- The Belvedere of Agios Nikolaos overlooking the old town of Chora
- Rue Papadiamantis : the town’s main shopping street. In the evening, the street is pedestrianized. So this is the place for souvenir stores, cafés… But we always take the little side streets dotted with flowers, little courtyards…
But Skiathos is more than just the peaceful charm of a seaside village. Indeed, the town is dotted with numerous restaurants, bars and shops that are as lively as they are welcoming. The atmosphere is warm and lively. In summer, the atmosphere is festive and the nightlife attracts holidaymakers from all over Greece. There’s something for everyone to enjoy before heading off into the great outdoors!
2. Lounging on stunningly beautiful beaches
The island of Skiathos is famous for its many beaches, each more splendid than the last. And there’s something for everyone!
- Looking for stretches of fine sand and turquoise waters worthy of the Caribbean? The famous Koukounaries beach will meet all your expectations.
- Prefer a youthful, musical and unbridled atmosphere? Banana’s lively beach invites you to party.
- Prefer to get away from the crowds and enjoy a less accessible setting? The wild beaches of Lalaria and Mandraki (also known as Elia) will delight you.
- The large sandy beach of Agia Eleni is also very popular.
- As well as the magnificent Troulos beach
It’s impossible not to find the beach of your dreams on the island of Skiathos! Take the opportunity to try your hand at water sports, such as diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean or kitesurfing at Koukounaries! If you want to try scuba diving :
- For beginners: 👉 Discover scuba diving at Saint Antonios.
- For certified and experienced divers: 👉 Adventure dives at Saint Antonios
3. Take a cruise to discover coves and beaches
Here’s a precious testimonial from Jean-Marie, a friend of Vivre Athènes. Many thanks!
From the port of Skiathos, you can also embark on a tour of the island by boat or speedboat to discover its coves and beaches, or observe the many fish swimming peacefully in the blue waters of the Sporades, of which Skiathos is the most popular island.
You can also take the ferry to the other Sporades islands neighbouring Skiathos: Alonissos, Skiros and Skopelos, whose pine forests, lush green landscapes and hillside villages with tiled-roofed houses differ from the traditional architecture and environment typical of other regions of modern Greece. Skiathos’ warm summer atmosphere inspired several sequences in the film Mamma Mia! and a popular restaurant named after the film attracts tourists by playing musical extracts from the famous singing group on the street most frequented by holidaymakers.
Jean-Marie
We’ve also spotted these day trips on Get Your Guide but unfortunately have not yet tried them out:
And if you dream of taking the helm and sailing around Skiathos without a boat licence, we recommend Click&Boat for an unforgettable day!
4. Enter spectacular sea caves
To the north of the island of Skiathos, the superb beach of Lalaria is home to two sea caves that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
- The first impression of the Skopili cave is disturbing. Only one boat at a time can enter the narrow entrance. This dark, strange atmosphere is precisely what gives it its charm!
- The Galazia cave is much larger. It owes its name (“the blue grotto”) to the astonishing color of the water enclosed between its walls.
These two spectacular caves are accessible by boat. You can also swim to them from Lalaria beach. Goosebumps and wonder guaranteed!
5. Hiking in splendid natural landscapes
If you love walking in nature, whatever your level of endurance, the island of Skiathos will seem like a little paradise! The island’s magnificent landscapes are home to 25 well-developed hiking trails. Marked itineraries offer more or less strenuous walks lasting from 1 h to 7 h.
Here are some of Skiathos’ most popular hikes:
- Kastro trail: This hike takes you to the ruins of the Kastro fortress, offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. The trail winds through countryside, olive groves and rocky landscapes.
- South-West Coast Path: This path allows you to explore the south-west coast of the island. Discover hidden coves, spectacular cliffs and unspoilt nature.
- Troullos to Koukounaries trail: This hike links two of Skiathos’ most popular beaches. Along the way, you’ll pass through pine forests, sand dunes and magnificent coastal scenery. So take the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters!
- Moni Evangelistrias trail: This trail takes you to the Moni Evangelistrias monastery in the Skiathos mountains. The hike takes in lush greenery of pine and cypress trees, panoramic views and a glimpse of monastic life.
Numerous hiking trails wind through the forests that cover the island. As well as offering pleasant shade, they are home to exceptional flora and fauna in an idyllic setting. A real spectacle!
To organize our hikes, we like the site AllTrails which lists different itineraries, specifying distance and level of difficulty, with photos and comments from other hikers.
6. Discover the Bourtzi peninsula and its Venetian fortress
Bourtzi is a small, wooded peninsula that bisects the port of Skiathos. It’s our favorite!
In Venetian times, an impressive fortress was built here. Its well-preserved remains provide a fascinating insight into the former Byzantine citadel of Bourtzi.
The magnificent view over the bay and the blue expanse of the Aegean Sea is worth the detour alone!
In summer, the open-air theater on the Bourtzi peninsula hosts a fine program of cultural and artistic events. A chance to see a traditional Greek dance performance!
7. Visit the home of the great Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis
Do you know the writer Alexandros Papadiamantis? This outstanding author of 20th-century Greek literature hails from the town of Skiathos. Today, his house near the port has become a must-see museum on any visit to the island. It’s small, simple and of interest to fans of Greek literature.
The traditional architecture of the house opens onto an almost untouched interior. We discover the daily décor, furniture and personal effects of the famous novelist.
An astonishing experience that will make you want to discover or rediscover the work of the founder of modern literature in Greece!
Practical information:
The Alexandros Papadiamantis Museum is located in the port city of Skiatos at 12 Papadiamanti. Open daily from 8.30am to 2.30pm and from 5pm to 8pm.
8. Dive into history at the Evangelistria monastery
The Evangelistria monastery is undoubtedly one of the most precious treasures on the island of Skiathos. Set on a hill away from the town, it comprises a main church and a historical museum dedicated to ecclesiastical and folk heritage.
The murals in the church are of great beauty. The Evangelistria monastery dates back to the post-Byzantine era. It is still inhabited by monks. There’s also a small store where you can buy their handmade products: “Alypiak” wine, honey, olive oil and various souvenirs.
Practical information
The Evangelistria monastery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
You can reach the site by bus or on foot from Skiathos town center. The walk takes about 45 minutes.
And there you have it, 8 good reasons to come and visit the island of Skiathos! To help you plan your stay, we give you some tips in How do I get there? Getting around? Where to stay? Where to eat on Skiathos.
You can ideally combine your stay in Skiathos with a visit to the other islands of the Sporades. Discover all our articles on the Sporades here and create your ideal trip to the islands of this magnificent archipelago!
Sandra B. and the Vivre Athènes team
