Skiathos is a charming Greek island in the Sporades archipelago, along with neighboring Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros. Magnificent beaches, great hiking opportunities, beautiful monuments… Skiathos has something for everyone! Despite its proximity to the mainland, Skiathos is not always easy to reach from Athens. So we’re here to help by giving you all the practical information you need to visit Skiathos in the Sporades: How do I get there? Getting around? Where to stay? Where to eat? Here we go!
How to get to Skiathos
Have you read our article 8 reasons to visit the island of Skiathos and have we inspired you to visit the island? There are several ways to reach this little paradise.
By plane
Skiathos has its own national airport (JSI). Please note that you’ll need to make a stopover in Greece if you’re coming from elsewhere. From Athens, it’s a 40-minute flight to Skiathos airport. Don’t be afraid of the landing – the runway is short, but it’ll be fine!
To choose your flight, we recommend you use the flight comparator ClickandBoat.
By ferry
Unfortunately, there are no connections between the port of Piraeus in Athens and Skiathos. Access to the island is therefore all year round, from the mainland via the ports of Volos and Mantoudi on the island of Evia (Evia is linked to the mainland by a bridge), as well as from Agios Konstantinos or Thessaloniki during the tourist season. Several companies operate daily services: Anes, Seajets, Hellenic Seaways, Aegean Flying Dolphins (the fastest), Magic Sea Ferries… Also, allow around 1h30 to 2h30 by boat from Volos, 2 to 3 hours from Mantoudi, 2h20 from Agios Konstantinos and 3 hours from Thessalonica.
Skiathos is also linked by ferry to other Sporades islands such as Skopelos and Alonissos, depending on the season.
For timetables, fares and ticket reservations, we recommend that you go directly to Hopper Ferry . A French-language site that’s intuitive and easy to use, and competitively priced. We’ve been using it for many years and are very satisfied.
And to reach the various ports
Of course, it takes a little more organization to reach the various ports of Volos, Mantoudi, Agios Konstantinos or Thessaloniki.
By car – The easiest way is by car. We recommend that you rent a car in Athens, then take it on the ferry to your final destination on Skiathos. Don’t hesitate to inform the rental company beforehand, as some rental companies have requirements in this respect.
By bus – Another option is the Ktel Evias bus which provides a direct line from Athens to Mantoudi, KTEL Volou-Magnesia to Volos. Or else KTEL Fthiotidos to Agios Konstantinos.
By cab – The last option is to book a cab. Practical but expensive.
Getting around the island
By car
It’s definitely our preferred means of transport, especially when traveling with the family. Indeed, it offers a certain flexibility and freedom to explore the whole island. Personally, we always use Rental Cars to get a quick overview of the different rental companies on the island. You can rent a car on the island or on the mainland to reach the Skiathos port easily.
By bus
The island of Skiathos hasa public bus network linking the main villages on the island and even some of the beaches, with more frequent buses during the tourist season. More information about Skiathos Transports.
By cab
Cabs are also available on the island of Skiathos, especially for night-time travel. To book your trip, we recommend that you use WelcomePickups There are no nasty surprises when it comes to rates, and everything is very clear on this French-language site.
Where to stay?
There’s agreat selection of accommodation on Skiathos, including on the website Booking which features a wide range of offers, from hotels with breakfast to privately rented houses. In fact, we’ve selected a few properties that appeal to us:
- Manolis’ House in Skiathos Chora: beautifully decorated whitewashed studios with kitchenette, swimming pool and green garden. What’s more, the host speaks French.
- Vanessa House Luxury Apartments in Skiathos town, a small apartment ideally located, modern and well-equipped, it has a terrace and a pretty garden.
- Tramontana House 1 and Tramontana House 2: new homes less than 10 minutes from the city. A superb view of the sea, a large garden to relax in and a host who takes great care of you. A place we recommend!
- On the west side of the island in Platanias, Ostria offers tastefully furnished studios. A lush pool and garden with excellent value for money. What’s more, breakfast is included.
- Skiathos Avaton Hotel, Philian Hotels & Resorts: a beautiful hotel with superb facilities and breakfast included! An unforgettable stay in Skiathos.
Alternatively, you can also find properties for rent on Airbnb apartments, villas… There’s also something for every taste and budget.
Where to eat? Here are a few good addresses
Borzoi: Originally an oil mill. In the 80s and 90s, he became well known at home and abroad. Today, it’s one of the island’s strongest bar-restaurants. Mediterranean cuisine and wonderful cocktails are on offer (Skiathos – Polytechniou 27, 6944247349).
Porto Paradiso: Set on a beautifully landscaped beach, this restaurant offers a quality menu and service. (Vromolimnos beach, Skíathos)
Taverne Anatoli : A very good traditional family tavern. This tavern is frequented by Greeks, so that’s a good sign! Beautiful setting. (Καλύβια 370 02, Skiathos. Facebook page)
Sandra B. and the Live-Athens team
