Skiathos

From its deep green trees to its rockin’ bars and restaurants, Skiathos invites you to take part in its distinctive and spirited vibe. Perfect for those who demand high standards, it has long been a premier destination for cosmopolitan travellers, particularly those on yachts and sailboats cruising the Mediterranean. At its lively marina, boats of all kinds – many available for private charter – are docked side by side. 

Meanwhile, the beach service is flawless. Nights in Hora are lively and fun and the spectacular beaches Lalaria and Koukounaria are among the best in Greece. The 14th-century castle, the habitat of Strofilias, the caves… there’s beauty on Skiathos at every turn. Youthful and exuberant, this is an island on which you can be sure that the locals will go out of their way to make your stay unforgettable!

What to do on Skiathos

Lalaria beach: Beauty that knows no bounds

This dazzlingly beautiful beach and surrounding landscape put Skiathos on the map. Prepare for crystal-clear waters, smooth white pebbles, steep cliffs that plunge into the sea. Little boats, yachts and day cruises bring visitors here to experience its splendour.

Natural wonders: Koukounaries and Lake Strofilias

Discover the second-most talked about beach on Skiathos, Koukounaries. Famous for its golden sand, this seemingly endless beach is considered one of the most naturally beautiful in the Mediterranean. It is embraced by a dense pine forest, behind which is Lake Strofilias, a unique habitat that is home to a variety of rare birds.

Hora and Bourtzi: A stately welcome

Entering the port, you are welcomed by Bourtzi: A pine-wood islet that is home to the ruins of a 13th-century Venetian fortress. Across the way, Skiathos’ main town (Hora) rises up from the shore like an amphitheatre, with its cluster of homes with blossom-red rooftops.

Meet you at Papadiamanti St

This is the main meeting point every night and where your holidays will take on the rhythm of the island. Cafes and bars throb with life, while restaurants, tavernas and stylish boutiques are sure to entice you in.

Local Legend: Alexandros Papadiamantis

Known as the “patron saint of modern Greek literature", Papadiamantis was an influential Greek writer. Here’s your chance to find out more about this towering figure. Born on Skiathos, his work frequently features his birthplace. You will discover in his stories another side to the island, as it was in the 19th century. The Papadiamantis house-museum is located right in the centre of Hora.

Sail away ... to the castle

Although also accessible by land, a great way to arrive at beautiful, isolated Kastro (Castle) is by boat. (If you don’t have your own, tours leave from Skiathos town daily.) Located in the northern part of the island, it was built in the 14th century to protect the Skiathians from pirates. Today, its mystical allure is captivating. Admire the art in two of the 22 surviving churches and marvel at the murals depicting the Nativity of Christ and the ceramics of St Nicholas.

An infinite ring of beaches

There are so many terrific beaches on Skiathos that you’ll be scratching your head about where to go first. Here’s a sample of some of the names to pique your interest: Big Banana (that got your attention!), Troullos, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa, Xanemos and Megalos Aselinos. With beach bars, water-front tavernas, umbrellas, sunbeds and watersports, Skiathos’ beaches have your maximum comfort and enjoyment as their primary design feature!

Hidden gems of Skiathos

The sea caves

Holidays mean adventure and exploration and, so, the sea caves of Skiathos await! As long as you have a boat (and it’s easy to hire one with a skipper) Pounta, Fonissa and Altanous are all waiting to be discovered.

The watchtower

Pagan altar, Christian spire or Venetian castle? Find the circular building at Pyrgi, hidden among the oaks, and let your imagination run wild.

The monastery of Evangelistria

The stone walls make it look like a monastery on Mount Athos. Located on the northeastern tip of Skiathos, it has been there since 1794.