Skiathos is a stunning island that has 60 beaches along its 44-kilometer-long coast. White golden sand and crystal clear waters make its beaches beautiful, while its rocky landscape – particularly on the north side – enhances the beauty of the island. It is the most popular and charming island of the Sporades group.
Skiathos has another name: “the island of Papadiamantis”, after the famous Greek writer who was born here in 1851. His books give a lovely impression of the island to those who have read them. His house, which is now a museum, is one of the main attractions in the island’s town.
The house of Alexandros Papadiamantis
The house of Papadiamantis, which is near the port, remains intact and now hosts a museum that honors his legacy. When you enter, you will find the furniture that belonged to the brilliant writer, including the desk where he penned many of his masterpieces and a vast array of manuscripts, some of which express his affection for Skiathos.
Skiathos - Bourtzi
Another enchanting place in Skiathos town is the green Bourtzi. It is a tiny peninsula covered with trees that divides the port area from the rest of the town. On Bourtzi, you can see the remains of the ancient fortress - castle that dates back to the 13th century.
According to tradition, the Gizi family built the castle on Bourtzi when they took over the island in 1207, during the First Venetian occupation. They became the rulers of Skiathos after Constantinople fell to the Crusaders. The castle on Bourtzi was their stronghold and symbol of their power.
Experience the beauty of Tsougrias island, a natural paradise in the Sporades group. This island is untouched by human habitation and offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters that surround it. Enjoy the white sand beaches, the dense greenery, and the peaceful atmosphere of this idyllic destination.
Walk to Lake Strofilia
Explore the natural beauty of Lake Strofilia, a lagoon located in the southwest of Skiathos island. The lagoon is separated from the sea by a pine forest and has a rich biodiversity. It is an important wetland that hosts many migratory birds that find shelter and rest there. You can enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake and admire the scenery and the wildlife.
Visit the Holy Church of Evangelistria
See the historic and majestic Holy Church of Evangelistria, also known as the Temple of Vangelistra by the locals of Skiathos. A group of monks from the Kollyvades movement founded this church in the late 18th century. They left Mount Athos due to religious conflicts and their adherence to the ancient tradition of the church. The Kollyvades influenced the famous Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis. This church is the most well-preserved religious attraction of Skiathos and it lies in Agalianou, surrounded by a forest of olive trees, oaks, and pines. It houses a large collection of relics, such as holy relics of Saints. Nayarch Lazaros Kountouriotis donated many of them in 1823 in gratitude for the church’s role in the national liberation of 1821.
Boat holidays in Skiathos have, as in these cases, some locations... Bonus
Dive and explore the Blue and Dark caves
Experience the thrill of diving and exploring the Blue and Dark caves, two of the most fascinating natural attractions of Skiathos. The Blue cave is named after the blue color of the water that reflects on the walls, while the Dark cave is darker and deeper. You can only access these caves by boat, which adds to the adventure and the mystery.
Hike on one of the routes of Skiathos
Enjoy the nature and the scenery of Skiathos by hiking on one of the many routes offered by the network of roads and trails that cover 243 km of the island. Skiathos is one of the most suitable Greek islands for hiking lovers, as it has about 25 marked trails of different lengths and degrees of difficulty. Most of them are easy to follow and suitable for beginners. You can also try the long route (about 2 hours of hiking) that connects the monasteries of Evangelistria and Kechria in the north of the island, where you can admire the architecture and the history of these religious sites.
Skiathos: The island with 60 beaches
Visit the most famous beach of Skiathos and one of the most famous in the Mediterranean, Koukounaries, which stretches for a kilometer. It is a fully organized beach with beach bars and taverns where you can have fun and enjoy the food.
Skiathos: Koukounaries beach
Next to it, you can find the equally famous Banana Beach, which is split into two sections. “Little Banana” is a nudist beach where you can feel free and relaxed.
Skiathos: The beaches of Banana and Little Banana
Explore the nearby beach of Megali Ammos, which is close to the town of Skiathos. It is a sandy beach with some pebbles and has taverns and ouzo bars where you can taste the local cuisine and drinks. If you prefer a more quiet and natural Beach, you can go to Mandraki Elias Beach, which has a wonderful natural landscape and offers tranquility for those who seek it. It does not have much infrastructure, but it has soft, golden sand and shallow turquoise waters. It also has a nice tavern, sunbeds, umbrellas, and plenty of free space.
Skiathos: Mandraki Elias Beach
Have fun at Vromolimno Beach, which is very popular with the younger crowd as it is very cosmopolitan. It is a great choice for swimming as it is sheltered from the north winds. You can enjoy the clear water, the soft sand, and the lively atmosphere of this beach.
Skiathos: Lalaria Beach
Visit the “trademark” beach of Skiathos, Lalaria, which is a world-famous beach for its beauty and uniqueness. It is only accessible by sea, so make sure you bring everything you need if you want to stay for hours. You can marvel at the white pebbles, the blue water, and the impressive rock formations that create natural arches and caves.
Skiathos: Lalaria Beach promises, at all times, beautiful moments to its visitors
The beach is famous for its smooth, white pebbles, the stunning views of the turquoise Aegean Sea and the wild hills that surround it. Lalaria often wins a place in the top ten of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Skiathos: Kanapitsa beach
Try windsurfing at Achladies, a beach that is ideal for this sport due to the sea currents. You can also visit Cape Kalamaki, where you can find Kanapitsa, a beach with a perfect view of the sea and the islands. There are also two other beaches nearby, Sklithri and Tzaneria, where you can enjoy the sun and the water.
The beaches in the Sporades are a guarantee. Skiathos promises a lot...
Relax and unwind at Agia Eleni and Aselinos, two beaches that are perfect for those who like calm and relaxing places. They are located in the northern part of the island and are surrounded by wild, beautiful scenery. You can appreciate the nature, the sand, and the clear water of these beaches.
Where to eat in Skiathos (we strongly recommend)
The Skiathos cuisine is rich and varied, and you have many options to choose from. Here are some of the exquisite options you can try. Amfilyki is a famous tavern on the island, located on the Acropolis of Skiathos, on the slope of Megali Ammos Beach overlooking the islet of Tsougrias. Here you can find fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Two of them are crayfish with zucchini and sea bream stew.
Marmita is a sophisticated restaurant in Skiathos town with creative gastronomic options. You can enjoy them in the lovely cool courtyard of the restaurant. Two of the crown dishes are squid with fresh vegetables, lemon, capers, and seaweed and shrimp with spicy tomato sauce, black garlic puree, and fried onions.
Holidays in Skiathos... They must be combined with tasty dishes
Akrogiali tavern on the seashore of Skiathos town is a great place to enjoy fresh fish and grilled meats. You can choose from a large display of fresh fish or order your favorite meat dish. The tavern is located on the sea, so you can admire the view and the breeze.
You should also visit the small tavern Anatoli in the area of Kalyvia, just outside the city. We recommend you try rooster, local goat, zucchini flowers, and “poetic” cheese pies in the pan.
The locals also love the ouzeri Kalo Pigadi in the narrow streets of Skiathos town, ouzeri with simple but tasty appetizers - octopus vinegar, skate salad, cuttlefish eggs, grilled tuna, shrimp balls, fava beans with anchovies and more. You will want to try one dish after another.
Skiathos is a classic, family, and safe choice that will make you happy and satisfied. It is a beautiful island that has many things to offer and to explore. You will need to spend many days to see and enjoy everything it has. It is a shame not to visit it at least once in your life.
