Ano Koufonissi is the smallest inhabited island in the Cyclades- but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty, authenticity, and genuine Greek island hospitality.
Part of Koufonissia, which comprises Ano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Koufonissi; is separated by a narrow strait and the island of Keros.
This stunning little isle is actually located between Naxos and Amorgos and boasts breathtaking sandy beaches, emerald green coves, and striking sea caves. Small enough to walk around in a day, this doesn’t mean you’ll be ready to leave after 24 hours- on the contrary- Ano Koufonissi allows visitors to relax, unwind and experience traditional Cycladic Island life without the crowds; leaving you wanting more.
Keep in mind, cars are not allowed on the island, but you can easily get around by walking, cycling, and small boats. So apart from treating yourself to lazy days on the beach, here’s our list of the best things to see and do when visiting Ano Koufonissi!
1. Stroll around the charming capital Chora and discover tiny treasures including small boutiques with folk art, handmade jewellery by local artisans and a range of traditional fisherman’s hats. Roam the cobblestone streets and wander through picturesque alleyways filled with colourful shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants. Make sure you take a seat at one of the seaside taverns and enjoy a long lunch or dinner while watching the sunset.
2. Discover several sea caves at Pano Koufonissis North Cape.
3. Dive straight into the turquoise waters for a memorable swim at any of the following beaches- Finikas, Fanos, Ammos, Italida, Pori, Charakopou, Parianos, and also add the tiny beach of Gala to your list – you won’t be disappointed!
4. Savour freshly caught fish, octopus and sea urchins at one of the local seafood taverns while also drinking a shot of “rakomelo,” as the locals do.
5. Also make sure to try the locally made Xynomyzithra (a goat’s cheese served with honey as a dessert, or added to salads). Other local dishes include Patatato (beef casserole in tomato sauce with potatoes), as are the traditional sweets Pasteli on lemon leaves and Xerotigana (sweet dumplings).
6. Visit Saint Nicholas’ small church, which offers beautiful views of nearby islands. Saint George’s and Panagia’s churches are also definitely worth a visit.
7. Don’t miss a dip in Piscina, a natural pool, surrounded by rocks- it features the most beautiful turquoise waters. Dive from the top straight into the pool for an unforgettable swim.
8. For a great cultural experience and to get to know the island’s history head over to Nikitas Simos Folklore & Archaeological Collection, exhibited in the garden of Villa Ostria in Agios Georgios, it is set in a well-preserved stone building that was built in 1852.
9. Also visit the Communal Folklore Collection with displays of household and kitchen utensils, farm equipment, traditional garments, furniture, embroidery and various ornaments that highlight the island’s history, customs and traditions.
10. Don’t leave before enjoying an Aperol Spritz at Mylos (a traditional windmill that has been turned into a cool concept store/ all-day bar), or Sorokos Bar, which is also set right by the water.
Getting there…
From Athens, Koufonissia is only reachable by ferry from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. The closest airport is located on Naxos island with daily domestic flights from Athens. From Naxos, you can take a ferry to Koufonissia, as well as some other islands in the Cyclades.
Milos, with its beautiful beaches, has now become one of Greece’s most sought-after summer spots.
This Cycladic island of volcanic origin features over 70 stunning beaches – from Sarakiniko, the most famous thanks to its unique lunar landscape, to Kleftiko, with its crystal clear waters- you really are spoilt for choice here!
What makes these beaches so unique is their interesting rock formations that create an impressive landscape, and although you can’t go wrong with any of them- when visiting Milos these are the spots I highly recommend for an unforgettable swim!
-Start off at the one-of-a-kind, lunar landscape of Sarakiniko which is featured on countless postcards (and for a good reason).
-Then make your way over to the beach of Firiplaka for crystal clear waters and breathtaking rock scenery as its background. A huge sea boulder divides the organised part with a beach bar and sun loungers (for rent) from the “untouched” side.
-Tsigrado is a magical beach that owes its existence to perlite (a type of obsidian from the volcano of Firiplaka) that can be reached by boat or by climbing a rope ladder.
-Add the caves of Papafragas to your wish list; a long-narrow fjord-like inlet featuring blue-green waters and grey-white rocks. Swim under the caves of Papafragas, alongside the ruins of the prehistoric town of Fylakopi, while listening to the hum of the Aegean Sea, and the turquoise waters rising beside you.
– If you prefer sandy beaches then make your way over to Agios Konstantinos. Also known as Alogomandra, it features soft, fine sand and is the perfect place for a quiet swim.
– Don’t leave Milos until you’ve been to Fyropotamos, a small settlement with a lovely beach and shady trees. On the right side of the beach, you will find the “Syrmata”, which are colourful and unique- highlighting the raw beauty of Milos.
Where the locals go:The residents of Plaka, the island’s capital, head to their secret sandy beach of Plathenia, which is perfect for sunset watching as well.
Tip: On the days when the meltemia (winds) blow on the northern shores, the beaches of the southern side are ideal. At the beach of Paliochori, hot springs well up so check it out. And look out for the Mediterranean monk seal, an endangered and protected species, that roams around the Milos western coast.
Extra tip: take a tour around Milos in order to discover the famous bay of Kleftiko with crystal clear waters and perfectly white rock formations in the background, the underwater sea caves of Sykia, -among others- and certainly the uninhabited island of Polyegos with exquisite waters. I would strongly recommend choosing Thalassitra, a replica of the dominant early 20th-century, traditional Milos craft. The captain cooks (onboard) ten authentic Milos recipes in Sifnos clay dishes- making it a really memorable experience for more reasons than one.
What better way to kick off the very first ‘This is Athens City Festival’ than with a huge picnic filled with an array of food, friends, sunshine, and music.
Celebrate Protomagia (May Day) today and the launch of this exciting new spring Festival at the blooming grounds of Plato Academy Park, located in the historic Kolonos neighbourhood of Athens.
Famous radio DJ hosts of Athens will soundtrack the day from the early morning to late evening, with dozens of free activities on offer; including movie screenings, kids’ activities, family games, and lots of food and drinks.
So if you find yourself in the Greek capital make sure to head over and take part in the great range of festivities on offer!
Full Details Below-
EVENT: Urban Picnic at Plato’s Academy Park (FREE ENTRANCE)
VENUE: Park of Plato’s Academy | Plato’s Academy Park, Monastiriou 138-140, Athens
DATE & TIME: 1st of May 2022 | 10:30 am till late
PROGRAM
10.30-12.00 Live DJ set from HiT 88.9
10.30-15.00 Archaeological excavation workshop by Archaeolab
12.00-13.00 “The Highway Singers’’ by Burger Project (Music play for traffic education, offered by Attiki Odos)
12.30-18.30 Spring Games for kids by Kid A
13.00-16.00 Live DJ set by En Lefko 87.7
16.00-20.00 Kite show by Kite Parade
16.00-18.30 Live DJ set by Red 96.3
18.30-19.30 Live concert by Soul Peanuts
20.15 “The Bucket List” movie projection (Comedy with Jack Nicholson & Morgan Freeman)
After 21 years, the first Cyprus-Greece passenger ferry link will set sail on June 19 from Limassol Port arriving at the Port of Piraeus in Athens, 30 hours later.
The announcement was made on Friday by Cyprus’ Deputy Shipping Minister Vassilios Dimitriades, along with Cyprus’ President Nicos Anastasiades stating, “Our citizens will once again be able to travel to Greece and Europe by sea, transporting their private vehicles as well.”
The service will last until September 16, with four trips scheduled for June, eight in July, seven in August, and three in September.
The Cypriot-flagged passenger ferry which carries up to 400 people, includes 38 first-class cabins, 68 second-class cabins, 110 seats, 100 vehicle spots, as well as a restaurant, café, and a clinic.
The cheapest return tickets for adults, with a simple seating arrangement, are set at 76 euros while a second-class cabin return ticket is 80 euros and one-way tickets cost 38 and 40 euros.
Children aged 4-12 will be charged 56 euros while those aged up to four will be charged 31 euros and cars up to 5-meters long will have a fee of 203 euros.
For more details on the new ferry link from Cyprus to Greece, head to Maritime Cyprus.
If there is one word to describe Komotini that would be multiculturalism. Here, west meets east, the past and the present coexist uniquely and there is always a legend to be told about its historic sites. Komotini, with its natural beauty and traditional elements, has something to accommodate everyone but did you know that it also has some of the finest Greek architecture?
Let’s go on a tour around the city looking at some of the city’s finest architectural pieces that can give us a glimpse into the socio-economical status of Komotini’s past, how people lived, what were their habits and financial situation, and even what jobs they held.
Entering the city from the west, visitors will come across Mansion Dermertzoglou, a one-storey building boasting a variety of Greek neoclassical features. The building’s aesthetic reflects the unique taste of its first residents; the main pillars featuring Doric capitals support the richly decorated pediment and the balconies are decorated with clam-shaped banisters making the most eye-catching facade.
Just a few meters away at Tsanakli street is the start of The old Greek historic district of Komotini that has three buildings with unique stories- The Old Library, Zoidis mansion and Eliades mansion. Those 19th-century mansions depicting a card postal, are declared protected monuments under the Greek state legislation making the street a blast from the past as they cannot be taken down or altered. Nowadays, the building of The Old Library houses K.Karatheodori S.A, Zoidis mansion is a famous cafe bar and Eliades mansion is an uninhabited building.
Museum of Komotini Mansion Dermetzoglou
On Dimokritou and Sofouli corner, visitors come eye-to-eye with the iconic Lesxi Komotinaion, a cafe with a rich history that has been open to the public since 1921. The high ceilings, crystal pendant lights and staircase are a testament to its neoclassical architecture, built during the Ottoman domination in Greece. The building is a declared monument of cultural heritage in Greece that testifies to the history of Komotini.
On the other side of Dimokritou street, visitors see a grandiose, peach coloured building with green sash windows, Tsanakleios School. Built in 1906 from funds provided by Nestoras Tsanakleios, a tobacco merchant from Komotini, this used to be an all-boys school that later turned into the Old University Rectorate and it currently hosts the public library. Even though the building has changed many uses since the day it was built, perhaps the saddest one is from when it used to be an orphanage.
Situated in the middle of the renewed area of Komotini on Sofouli street, where once the river run through, is a 150-years old church, the Metropolitan Church of the Assumption. Built during the Ottoman empire, the church lies almost half a meter under the current street level, as there was a building height regulation stating that anything Greek built during the days of the Ottoman empire should not be on a higher level than the Turkish buildings. Near the temple is a part of the Byzantine wall ruins, as it is also across the street.
Tsankleios SchoolMetropolitan Church
Komotini Fortress once used to be the centre of the Jewish community. The Byzantine walls had large wooden doors that closed every night for the safety of the residents. They protected the community but also separated the two different worlds living in Komotini. Nowadays, the remains of the 4th-century walls, scattered through the city centre are a reminder of a sad era filled with wars and plunders.
Dating back to the Ottoman era, The Old Market of Komotini is another must-see when in the city. Clusters of old, traditional shops, neatly lined in the cobbled streets make this area one of the most intriguing ones. Here, shops are filled with antique treasures waiting to be discovered, locals gather together to share their news and there is a distinct aroma of freshly grounded coffee in the air.
Located just off Ermou Street is the historic Clock Tower. Originally built in 1884, the Clock Tower was restored and went through an architectural intervention in 1950 resulting in its current form. It is a meeting point for locals and it marks the start of Ermou street.
Next to the Clock Tower lies Yeni Mosque (New Mosque) dating back to 1585. This is a place where the muezzin calls the Greek Muslims to pray five times per day and where the Muftiate of Rhodope Prefecture is housed. What is interesting about this building is that opposed to what its name suggests, it is in fact the oldest mosque in the city!
Varosi CafeHotel Astoria
On Kouloglou street there are two buildings of high importance and architectural uniqueness: at 6-8 Kouloglou street is the famous Skouteri mansion that nowadays hosts the museum of Komotini and at Kouloglou and Seferi corner is the Cultural Centre of Komotini. Both buildings are designated as historic monuments that require a special state of protection.
Agiou Georgiou street is another place of architectural interest. There lies the building of the Educational Society of Komotini (Ag. Georgiou 26) and The Folkore Museum divided between two identical buildings facing each other, the Peidou mansion on Agiou Georgiou 13 and the Psara mansion on Agiou Georgiou 22. The last two buildings display a typical example of local folk architecture and have been restored as exemplary. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, between 9.00 – 13.00. Visitors can contact 2531025931 for information and organized guided tours.
In Komotini’s central square, Plateia Eirinis, visitors come across a cultural heritage building designed by the architect Othonas at the beginning of the 20th century. The building features yellow walls with arched balcony doors, wooden shades and a mixture of Byzantium and neoclassical architectural elements. In 1933 it was bought by Nikolaos Papatheodorou and it was turned into a hotel, ‘Astoria‘, in 1934.
The Thracian Cultural Center and Thracian Conservatory are set in the renovated building of the Tobacco Warehouse. The building was renovated more than a decade ago and it has four floors with many large rooms that are used for multiple events and purposes either by the Municipality of Komotini or by cultural and social Associations.
Greece has officially announced that travelling throughout the country from May 1st will be a whole lot easier, as Covid 19 vaccination or recovery certificates will no longer be required, and mask rules relaxed in time for the peak summer holiday season.
Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris on Wednesday outlined the roadmap from May 1 through to August 31, confirming that domestic Covid passports will be scrapped with the rule applying to vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and to both indoor and outdoor areas, including museums, archaeological sites, restaurants, taverns, cafes, bars and other venues.
Plevris said that the requirement to show a Covid pass to enter bars, restaurants and other public venues would be withdrawn on May 1 and from June 1, mask rules will be relaxed in most venues, with a few exceptions – likely to include healthcare settings – this will be outlined in the coming days.
He added that the removal of international entry requirements, where visitors must show proof of either vaccination (including a booster if their second dose was administered more than 270 days before), recent recovery from Covid, or a negative test to visit Greece – are also under consideration.
For all the latest travel requirements to Greece head totravel.gov.gr
A stunning new hotel has opened its doors on the island of Sifnos. Featuring a rustic chic design, NOS Hotel & Villas is set amongst rugged natural beauty – making it the ideal intimate hideaway.
Located on Faros and within walking distance to some of Sifnos’ best beaches, NOS offers 18 suites, set across four stone buildings- all with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the 17th-century Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi; an emblematic landmark of the island. Featuring bright and airy spaces, the suites effortlessly flow onto private courtyards, terraces and balconies allowing for seamless indoor/outdoor living.
Designed by Athens-based K-Studio, the property is inspired by nearby authentic villages. This is mainly highlighted by the natural materials used throughout the space- including stone, marble, and lime mortar. With smooth finishes and earthy décor throughout- the suites feature ceramic basins and woven stools that have been made by local craftsmen, as well as original artwork created specifically for the hotel by local artists.
The property also offers an on-site restaurant with a delightful menu created by award-winning Executive Chef Athinagoras Kostakos. The eatery is set on a dreamy terrace, while dishes are made with ingredients sourced from local producers, offering guests Mediterranean flavours with a modern twist. There is also an impressive wine cellar filled with handpicked varieties from the hotel’s sommeliers, who have carefully chosen reds and whites from all over Greece and other parts of the world.
Only 200 m from Faros Beach, 300 m from Fassolou Beach, and less than 1 km from Chrysopigi beach – it’s the perfect spot for those who love the sun and sand. NOS Hotel & Suites also features free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, an open-air spa, as well as a bar, and a garden; plus a 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, a shuttle service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Many of my childhood and teenage years were spent living in the northern suburb of Kifissia, which has expanded and seen several changeovers in shops and restaurants throughout the decades yet still remains pretty much the same.
As it was popular among Athenian gentry during the 18th and 19th Centuries as a cool summer from the city heat, Kifissia was bequeathed with some beautiful – or at least interesting or unique – neoclassical architecture. Its Alsos park, which leads directly from the train station (green line) to the main square, where when I arrived in 1982 was where ‘the cop in the can’ stood directing traffic, is still great for a nice stroll, with its large round fishpond, a café and a scattering of park benches (but no playground).
Athens’ famous Northern neighbourhood
The temperature in Kifissia is thought to be around 4-5 degrees C lower than that of the city centre, largely owed to the greenery in the area, Syngrou park nearby and Mt Parnitha not far above. Although I moved to Athens in my early 20s and was happy to escape what I felt was a dull, sleepy suburb, today I relish the relaxed energy, fresh clean air, greenery and small(er)-town community vibes. As school kids, we went to the shopping centre for slush puppies and rollerskating (so 80s!) and walked freely and safely around at night after going to Chloe or Boboniera outdoor cinemas (both still there) in summer. Small yet pleasant Kefalari park (just a 15-minute uphill walk from Kifissia) was where the wild things went to skull down beers, kiss and throw each other into the pond.
Today, Kifissia still has low-profile energy when it comes to both day and night outings, but there are plenty more places to hang out for lunch, coffee, dinner and drinks, as well as more options for culture lovers and shopaholics. Like Kolonaki in central Athens, Kifissia’s shopping scene is generally for those willing to spend freely, but there are more reasonable and high-quality choices available too.
Culture /Art
Galerie Lefakis on Tatoiou
There aren’t many museums in Kifissia, but the one there is, the Goulandris Natural History Museum (Levidou 13 & Othonos) is special, as it presents a cornucopia of plant and animal species, fossils and the replica of a giant dinosaur skeleton. It also has a café and shop. Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Kouvoutsakis Art Institute next door (Levidou 11) where over 1,500 paintings and sculptures that date back to the 1800s are showcased. Culture vultures should also visit Mamush Gallery (Panagitsas 3), which hosts a private collection of 500 works including originals by Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Victor Vasarely, Keith Haring, and Pablo Picasso as well as internationally known Greek artists like Pavlos, Gaitis and Galerie Lefakis (Tatoiou 73) and Mihalarias Art.
Shopping
An endless range of boutiques and shoe stores
There is a multitude of high-end clothing and jewellery boutiques to walk or gaze into in Kifissia, lining its streets and clustered in its three main shopping centres. We cannot list them all here, but you’ll be able to find both famous international and local brands. For fashion head to Detroit, Regent, Soho Soho, American Vintage and for jewellery to Minas, Ilias Lalaounis, Pandora and Swarowski Boutique. If you like concept stores with clothing, accessories and décor items, visit Safe House, Mixi Concept Store and Onar Candles.
Kids
The Playmobil Fun Park (Amaliados 4 & Kalavryton) is a playground, where young children will enjoy playing with all sizes of PLAYMOBIL toys. For interesting gifts, visit the Pehnidospito specialty toy store (20 Kiriazi) where most toys are made of wood. Authentic toys from wood.
Pampering
Why not get a massage when you’re in Kifissia? Le Hammam (8 Agiou Trifonos) is a great place for that. With décor and a steam room reminiscent of the original hammams in Constantinople and signature therapies using spices and oils, you’re in for a treat. A little out of Kifissia (15/20 minutes drive) is the Orloff Spa at Life Gallery (103 Thisseos Leoforos, Ekali) where the therapies on offer are also highly reputed.
Nice N Easy for farm to table dishes
Dining
As with the shopping scene, there’s much to discover here in this area depending on your tastes and needs, but some of the most popular hangouts are Nice N Easy (Papadiamanti 7) for delicious farm-to-table food made with Greek ingredients but inspired by Hollywood stars, Artisanal for Mediterranean cuisine, Buba Bistro Exotique (Papadiamanti 4) for Thai/Asian/Mediterranean cuisine, Blue Pine (Panagi Tsaldari 37) for classic French dining, To Koutouki (Kifissias Ave 308), Vathis (Kirou 7) and Elaias Gi (Dexamenis 4) for classic Greek cooking (the latter more on the fine dining scale), Monzu (Leof. Kifisias 317b) an Italian restaurant and spritzeria, the Dalliance House (Kiriazi 19,) for brunch and mingling, and new luxury steakhouseDrakoulis Dry & Raw (Pentelis 1).
How to get there: Kifissia is reachable by bus (550 or A7 from central Athens bus stops), the HSAP green line and by taxi (around 25-50 minutes at a cost of 11-17 euros, depending on traffic).
Greece’s leading airline carrier Aegean has welcomed its first guests to the brand-new Business Lounge, located at the extra Schengen area of Athens International Airport.
The new 1250sqm lounge has been designed to enhance passengers’ travel experience with unique aesthetics, functionality, comfort, and hospitality through state-of-the-art technology and upgraded services.
The modern space, which marks the airline’s fresh start to the 2022 tourist season, has been inspired by traditional Greek architecture and was designed by leading Greek architecture firm K-Studio. Featuring marble, terrazzo, glass and wood, it offers a contemporary and comfortable environment for guests to make the most of the new media lounge, social lounge, and quiet lounge; as well as the meeting rooms, two cafeterias and a restaurant alongside a wine bar.
“As the new Aegean Business Lounge is aiming to serve as a platform to promote Greekness, all warm and cold dishes as well as wines offered, come mainly from fine Greek producers,” announced Aegean.
The new Business Lounge will be open to all Business Class and Miles+Bonus Gold passengers, as well as to members of the Star Alliance network, where they will have the opportunity to experience all of Aegean’s unique services.
Greece’s Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport has announced they expect the Corinth Canal to reopen for navigation from the 5th of July.
The 128-year-old canal has been closed to traffic since February 2021, after a series of landslides made it unnavigable. Following its closure, the Greek government commenced vital restoration works worth 30.6 million euros.
The famous canal that separates the mainland from the Peloponnese can accommodate small cruise ships and is crossed by several bridges, including a motorway and railway.
Also known as the Isthmus of Corinth, the canal connects the Ionian and the Aegean Seas, making the passage of cargo and passenger ships between the two much quicker and safer.
As Greece opened up to tourism and yachts last summer, visitors who passed through from the Ionian to the Aegean Seas on yachts and cruise ships had to take the long and costlier route around the Peloponnesian peninsula; however this year the Greek Development & Investments Ministry is hoping to see the Corinth Canal open in July through to the end of October.
A press release issued by the Corinth Canal SA states, “We would like to inform our customers and partners that the restoration works are in progress and that according to the official schedule of the Ministry of Infrastructure & Transport, the canal will be available for navigation from the 5th of July until the end of October 2022, where restoration work will continue.”
To see the Corinth Canal, visitors can drive to it, take a bus, or board a boat cruise that goes through it – boat trips run from Loutraki.
Sporades Islands became increasingly popular right after the release of ‘Mamma Mia!’. You see, the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi with the turquoise waters and the bleached-white beaches that viewers fall for is nothing else than a curated concoction of scenes from Skopelos island and from Damouchari beach in Pelion.
But while Skopelos is the centre of the action, the visitability of the neighbouring island of Skiathos increased as well, all the more so because it lies just half an hour away and tourists can kill two birds with one stone by visiting both of them even within the same day.
Skiathos is a romance-infused destination mirrored in the number of weddings and honeymoons that take place here culminating in August each year. The island combines everything newlyweds are looking for in a honeymoon: secluded beaches, luxury hotels, fine dining and lots of romantic spots to enjoy the sunset. It is quite possibly the ultimate couple’s destination without breaking the bank!
Here’s our guide for a romantic getaway to Skiathos!
Welcome drinks at Bourtzi
Start married life and set the tone of your visit to Skiathos with a few drinks at Bourtzi. Bourtzi is an old fortress set on a small peninsula that extends into the sea between the old and new port of Skiathos Town. It was built in the 13th century and has since saved the island many times against its enemies and pirates’ attacks. Nowadays, Bourtzi hosts one of the best bars in town. It has great cocktails and nibbles to eat and it also offers the best airplane spotting and sea views. Don’t forget to take a selfie in the toilet mirrors (hint: there are no mirrors just endless sea views, something visitors adore about this place!).
Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower
Getting to Agios Nikolaos Church just before sunset is one of the best things to do when in Skiathos. To get there you climb around 100 steps through century-old alleyways, past jasmine-filled gardens and the occasional stone-built bar that has bougainvillea-covered walls. It is all worth it though as once you are on top you have the best panoramic views of the town, new and old port.
Romantic dinner at Scuna restaurant
Scuna is the place to go for a romantic dinner by the seaside. We visited on our second night on the island, after a long tour around the beaches on the north side of Skiathos. We were ravenous and eager to find a quiet spot for dinner and this place did not disappoint! The food was exceptional, there was a chef’s touch in every dish and the whole restaurant vibe was full of Greek aromas with dried oregano bouquets hanging from the ceiling and Greek wine bottles on display.
Visit Skiathos Kastro
Not everyone wants to relax on a sun lounger for their honeymoon. Why not do something different and visit one of the oldest and most historical sites on the island, instead? The Kastro (castle) of Skiathos are the ruins of a medieval fortified site on a rocky setting lying on the northern side of the island. It was founded in the 14th century and its main purpose was to save the locals from pirate raids. From the day it was built, it was occupied by Venetian and Turkish rulers before it was given back to the Greek people in the 19th century.
Unfortunately, Kastro has been abandoned and left to its own fate for many centuries and as a result, nowadays only two churches have been saved (Gennisi tou Christou and Agios Nikolaos).
A visit is well worth it, any time of the day as you get the best views of the sea waves crashing on the rocks and the vastness of the Aegean Sea.
Walk around the port
Skiathos has a long port that is divided into three different areas: there is the old port, the Municipal Port and the Paraliakos port with the best views of Chora!
Explore the old port, which is located right next to Bourtzi, and have a few drinks at the local bars while watching the travellers chatting to the organisers of the island hopping day trips. Here, is also the place to book your tickets and take a boat to go to Lalaria beach is accessible only by sea.
The Municipal Port is basically the main port and the one you see when arriving on the island from the Greek mainland. This is the base for the lifeguard and also where the majority of the island’s restaurants are located. All ferries depart from here and this is where ferries to Skopelos depart from.
Last but not least, is the Paraliakos Port which is basically a stretch of the Municipal Port. As it is on a curve, it offers fantastic views of the main port and Chora.
Papadiamanti street
Papadiamantis Alexandros was an influential poet and Skiathos native. His work tells the story of people in 19th-century rural and urban Greece with adventures set around the Mediterranean and rich plots involving captivity, war, pirates and diseases.
His house (turned into a museum) is on the main cobbled street of the island, which locals in his honour have now named after him. Being the Highstreet of the island there is a good selection of clothing stores, bars and souvenir places to explore. On a night out, the street is so crowded, that you will potentially stumble upon people over and over again so it’s best to visit during daylight.
The island beaches
Just like any other Greek island, Skiathos has plentiful stunning beaches to visit but there’s no doubt that the most beautiful ones are on the northern side of the island. Somehow, these are the less-visited ones, too, making them ideal to visit if you prefer something quieter and less touristy.
Renting a motorbike is something that I highly recommend before you go on a beach exploration pilgrimage as some beaches are difficult to get to by public transportation or even a car.
Even though the most famous beach on the island is Koukounaries, closely followed by Lalaria beach, we opted for the less-visited ones like the magnificent Troulos, Kanapitsa and Krifi Ammos. Try having breakfast at Troulos beach with the pair of swans greeting tourists every morning as they swim in the sea, a truly unforgettable experience!
Iera Moni Evangelismou tis Theokotou
This monastery is a must-see when visiting Skiathos. The impeccable views of nature and tranquillity of the place will make you feel relaxed and content regardless of your religious beliefs. Try visiting in the afternoon when there are not so many visitors and enjoy the company of the monastery cats giving you a tour of the place!
Shopping in Skiathos
Skiathos has plenty of seasonal, summer stores that sell anything from hand-knitted scarves to white linen dresses and handmade olive soaps. Allow yourself to get lost in the cobbled streets and have a look around the shops. Don’t forget to say ‘hi’ to the locals, they are always up for a chat.
Skiathos nightlife
Any antonym of the word ‘boring’ would describe Skiathos nightlife! There are nightclubs, bars, beach bars and late-night tavernas scattered all over the place offering the best in music, entertainment and cocktails. If you are indecisive just go for a walk through the old port, pick up a place with the comfiest seats and order a drink! The views of the port, attentive staff and sea breeze will make you fall for it.
Some extra tips:
-Book your accommodation as early as possible. Unlike the other Sporades, Skiathos Island had only one town, Chora, with not so many places to stay on the rest of the island.
-Rent a motorbike, the best way to explore the island and get the best experience.
-If you are staying for more than a week, then consider a day trip to Skopelos with the ferry boat. It’s a short ride and totally worth it.
Assouline’s new hardcover book brings the Greek Islands to life using glorious colourful photography and text that gives a real sense of nostalgia.
Curated by Athens-based businessmen/ art collector/ restaurateur Chrysanthos Panas, and photographer/ travel writer Katerina Katopis-Lykiardopulo- the latest book in Assouline’s collectible travel series captures the unique spirit and mythology of the Greek islands.
From the Cyclades to the Dodecanese, the new hardback book celebrates the beauty, serenity and diversity of the Greek islands- showcasing a range of stunning beaches, natural landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals- making it a lovely gift for those who escape to the Aegean at every opportunity.
Beautifully presented, readers are invited to explore over 300 pages that are filled with authentic architecture, ancient ruins, cliffside monasteries, volcanic rims, striking azure waters, and a laid-back Greek island vibe- depicted in the striking images and carefully chosen words that will have you mesmerised for hours.
“Venturing on an Odyssey of their own, the author and the photographer boarded a traditional Greek sailboat and set out to capture the calming atmosphere, quintessential characters and breathtaking architecture of these gems of the Aegean. A spectacular journey re-created in the pages of Greek Islands,” says the publisher.
1. Stroll around the charming capital Chora and discover tiny treasures including small boutiques with folk art, handmade jewellery by local artisans and a range of traditional fisherman’s hats. Roam the cobblestone streets and wander through picturesque alleyways filled with colourful shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants. Make sure you take a seat at one of the seaside taverns and enjoy a long lunch or dinner while watching the sunset. 
