Skiathos is nothing short of breathtaking. Known as one of the most popular of the Sporadic islands, it is filled with lush pine trees and over 60 stunning beaches; making it a hot destination during the warmer months. Here are the Top 10 things to do in Skiathos, including visiting modern museums, eating at quaint tavernas, and swimming at serene spots loved by locals.
Hike Around
Hike from town to the Evangelistria Monastery or the Kastro, the ancient fortified capital of the island. Skiathos is one of the best organised hiking destinations in Greece, offering 26 hiking routes with a total length of 200 km.
Enjoy Cultural Events
Skiathos is a great place for culture lovers. Here you can enjoy a film at the open-air cinema, visit the small Maritime and Cultural Museum, and an in-house museum, which is dedicated to celebrated author Alexandros Papadiamantis. For a more modern cultural experience head to the Kivo Art Gallery, The Blue House Art Gallery, and Skiathitiko Spiti.
Visit Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower
The church is dedicated to the Agios Nikolaos, Patron Saint of the sea. Located on a high hill at the beginning of the harbour, it’s totally worth getting up here to enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the Tsougria Islet on the opposite side.
Stroll Around Town
Keep walking around the town and you’ll eventually reach Plakes, and if you stroll through the streets of the old town, here you will find magical views and some lovely cafes and taverns run by locals. The backstreets of Plakes are filled with white washed homes that feature plenty of charm.
Explore Bourtzi
The stretch of harbour leading to the Bourtzi is where you will find the New Harbour and the town’s marina. It’s lined with an array of cafes and eateries which continue around the corner to the Old Port, whereas the far end near Bourtzi is pedestrianised. When the sun sets, this is where you will find local and international visitors enjoying their evening.
Shop Local Products
Papadiamantis is a wide pedestrianised street in the heart of the Old Town and the main shopping strip of Skiathos Town. Here you’ll find creperies, souvenir shops, boutiques local jewellers and other artisans. Also, make sure to stop off at Ergon deli, where you an grab some great local delicacies to take home.
Dine in Style
There are plenty of dining options in Skiathos and some of our picks include Under the Pine Tree behind Koukounaries, Marmita in Skiathos Town, or Agnadio, on the road towards the Evangelistria Monastery. For traditional taverna dishes head to Alexandros or Amfiliki. For a unique dining experience try the Windmill Restaurant and for modern cuisine head to Borzoi Club, Lo&La, Infinity Blue, or The Final Step.
Drink With the Locals
For a glass of wine or a cocktail, head to Rock n Roll, La Bussola, Gin Fish, or Tesla. For an all-day cafe and bar try Bourtzi, perched atop of the island. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna tables right on the beach, and have a light mezze with your drink of choice.
Swim at the best beaches
Some of the best beaches are only accessible by boat however they are easy to get there with boat trips that go around the island every day. We recommend Koukounaries Beach, backed by lush pine forest and Vromolimnos beach is another beautiful sandy beach with a lively beach bar and a water sports centre. Those in the north of the island head to Elia beach, with its crystal-clear sea and rustic-chic tavern. And don’t miss a swim at Lake Strofinias, Kechries, and Tsoungria (a small isle close by).
Lalaria Beach
Yes, this beach deserves a mention of its own. Lalaria Beach is famous for its cave and its impressive rock formations and is accessible only by boat from Skiathos town; if you can only get to one beach on the island, this is the one.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for some boutique hotels check out La Piscine Art Hotel or Elivi Skiathos. For a nice hotel that is reasonably priced look at Skiathos Avaton and for some villa-style accommodation head to Atrium Hotel.
Getting there
By Plane: Skiathos International Airport is to the east of the island, 30 minutes away by car. By Boat: There is no ferry to Skiathos from Athens. Ferry routes from port towns in mainland Greece such as Agios Konstantinos (two hours from Athens), Thessaloniki, and Volos connect with Skiathos and the neighbouring Northern Sporades islands.
