Surrounded by the sparkling Aegean Sea, Skiathos has everything you could want from a Greek island.
The smallest of the Sporades islands boasts over 50 beaches, a historic harbour town, fantastic seafood and breath-taking natural beauty.
Getting Around
Skiathos’ beachfront airport has a famously short runway – bag a window seat for the view if you can! Use bus, taxi or rental car to reach the capital Skiathos Town and travel round the island. For some of the best scenery, hop on to the water buses running between beaches.
Language
Greek
Time Difference
2 hrs ahead of GMT
Currency
Euro
Neighbourhoods To See
Skiathos Town: party in an idyllic setting
At the heart of the island, the quaint cobbled streets of this tiny harbour town are filled with restaurants, bars and shops. Wander up to the hillier areas around the churches of Tris Ierarhes and Agia Triada for a more authentic vibe. The great nightlife attracts party hungry tourists all summer.
Koukounaries: calm under the pine trees
This popular resort has hotels, tavernas and shops curving around a huge white sand beach. Find shade under the pines or head for the lovely freshwater lagoon just behind the forested peninsula.
Bourtzi Islet: for history
This tiny islet is covered in archaeological ruins, pine trees and a school, and connected to the mainland by a narrow strip that divides the Old Port from the New Port. A former fort, it dates back to 1207 when Venetian merchants ruled the island.
Essential Sights
Kastro
The 14th century Castle of Skiathos sits at the northern tip of the island, on the site of its old Byzantine capital. Access is via steep mountain routes, but worth it for the amazing views and black sandy beach below.
Cathedral of the Three Hierarchs
Wonderful architecture, Byzantine art and a taste of the Greek Orthodox Church, with a cool interior that offers a welcome escape during the scorching summer.
Panagia Kechria monastery
Climb up to the mountains and stroll through pine forest to admire this beautiful 16th-century monastery and the rich frescoes of its remaining church.
Papadiamantis House
This little museum marks the birthplace of the island’s biggest cultural export: writer and poet Alexandros Papadiamantis.
Agios Nikolaos church and clocktower
Take the winding walk up from the port at sunset to enjoy spectacular views over Skiathos Town and the Aegean from this modest, pretty church.
Food And Drink
Turkish and Italian influences live on in Skiathos tavernas, but traditional Greek fare leads. The Old Port seafront sells barbecued fish and seafood straight from the sea, with more excellent tavernas up around the churches of Tris Ierarhes and Agia Triada. Though it’s small and quaint, Skiathos’ party reputation is well earned with dancing into the early hours.
Events
APRIL | Agios Georgios
On 23rd April the island celebrates St George with horse races, feasting and traditional dancing.
SUMMER | Bourtzi Festival
Throughout the summer the old fortress hosts cultural events including theatre, exhibitions and concerts.
SEPT | Katsonia Festival
This annual event involves a public feast and religious mass to honour the crew of the Katsonis submarine which sunk off Skiathos during World War II.