The 11 things to do in Skiathos • Wanderlix

Visit Skiathos: what are the best things to do and to see on the most lively island of Sporades?

Located in the heart of the Aegean, the island of Skiathos is part of the Sporades Archipelago, with its neighbors Skopelos , Alonissos and Skyros . With an area of only 48 km2, Skiathos is the most touristic and vibrant island in the archipelago.

Touristic? You will understand directly why by seeing its sublime beaches, considered by some as the most beautiful of all the Greek islands! But the island is not limited to its extraordinary beaches and turquoise waters. Skiathos, offers many other natural and cultural treasures, to be discovered without moderation.

Animated? Take a tour at nightfall in the heart of Skiathos Chora, the capital of the island, and you will discover why the festive side of this island is so renowned. Are you wondering what to do in Skiathos? Follow us, you have drawn up a list of the 11 must-sees to do in Skiathos, not to lose a miette!

1. Skiathos, the capital

Located in the south-east of the island, the capital Skiathos is also known as Chora, a name given on each Greek island in the main city. Whether you arrive by the air or by the sea, this is where you will lay the first foot-to-ground!

Built in amphitheatre around its bay, the city of Skiathos is the true heart of the island, as muddy and ravishing. You will fall under the charm of its traditional architecture, with its beautiful white houses. Don’t hesitate to lose yourself in its narrow narrow streets. You will discover a warm atmosphere and many restaurants, bars and small shops.

2. The Bourtzi Peninsula

From the city of Skiathos, you cannot miss the visit of Bourtzi, a small peninsula that cuts the port of the city in half. It is a place with an incredible charm where, at the time of Venetian domination, an imposing fortress was built.

The remains of this ancient Byzantine citadel are extremely well preserved. The atmosphere is subtly peaceful and the view on the coasts of Skiathos and the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea, absolutely incredible!

Bourtzi also offers many cultural and artistic events in high season. A small outdoor theatre hosts many concerts and shows, including traditional Greek dance. An impossible to see if you're visiting Skiathos!

3. Hiking

Are you a hiking enthusiast and you are visiting Skiathos? So you won't be disappointed! Because the island is a true little paradise for walking enthusiasts. Indeed, it offers 25 hiking paths arranged and marked, including routes between 1h and 7h. What to delight all types of walkers, amateurs or arguing!

In addition, note that most trails are located in the forest and are shaded, even in the summer. During your walks, you will discover an absolutely exceptional fauna and flora, in the heart of a breathtaking landscape... That happiness!

4. The Alexandros Papadiamantis Museum

If there is a place to see in Skiathos, it is the old house of the famous novelist Alexandros Papadiamantis . Today transformed into a museum, this small two-storey building perfectly reflects the traditional Greek architecture.

The house has kept its original interior almost intact, in which is traced the life of its former owner, one of the most important Greek writers of the last century. You will discover a rich collection of antique furniture, books and personal items from the writer.

Located in the city of Skiathos, all near the port, it is certainly the most visited cultural center of the island! Doing compulsoryly if you are going to visit Skiathos.

5. The marine caves

The beach of Lalaria, all north of the island, in addition to being sublime, is renowned for its 2 marine caves: Skopili and Galazia. The first, Skopili is rather dark and disturbing, with its low and narrow entrance where only one boat at a time can slip.

And it is this lugubre atmosphere that paradoxically makes all its charm. Galazia is named "the blue cave." His nickname comes from the amazing color of the water, which blew into this cave, much larger than the previous one.

You can visit and discover these absolutely extraordinary and fascinating natural works, on a private boat, or on an organized tour. If you are a good swimmer, or a diver, you can also freely access the heart of these caves directly via crystal clear waters... Guaranteed chills!

6. The fortress of Kastro

You can’t visit Skiathos without a tour by the old capital! Located north of the island, the fortress of Kastro was built around the 14th century, at the top of a cliff. At the time, it was not less than 300 buildings and 30 churches that it protected by its walls!

Today, only two churches were saved from the ravages of time. But the many ruins that make up this place make it particularly impressive, as it is in charge of History. Know that the ride to get there is no rest, but the panorama that awaits you when you arrive is worth the candle.

7. The beaches

The island of Skiathos has some 60 beaches, all rivaling beauty! Among them, the best known is certainly Koukounaries with its endless fine sandbank and turquoise water.

Young people in search of debridled animation, will head to Banana Beach, known as a nudist. It has an absolutely amazing frame, sublimated by the olive trees and fig trees that compose it.

Much more wild, because hardly accessible, the beaches of Mandraki and Lalaria will charm you by their natural beauty and their calm. Wherever you go to the island, you will find a beach, offering decors worthy of the Caribbean!

8. The Evangelistria monastery

Fully erected on a hill, the Evangelistria monastery is one of the most beautiful treasures of the island, far from the beaches and bustling city centre. Dating from the post-Byzantine era, it is composed of a main church with sublime murals. One of the buildings of the monastery is occupied by a small historical museum, exhibiting a collection of books, documents and sacred objects.

9. Aquatic activities

What are you still looking for in Skiathos? Why not try at water sports, offered in many places on the island? Enjoy strong sensations at the wheel of a jet ski on the beach of Megali Amos. Or let yourself be tempted by a kite surf session on the beach of Koukounaries, or Paraskevi.

Are you rather a diving or snorkeling lover? Then go to discover the sumptuous coral of the island and the underwater people that animates it!

10. Nightlife

The island of Skiathos is recognized for its heavenly beaches, but also and especially for its incredible atmosphere in the summer. The vast majority of the island population is concentrated in the city of Skiathos.

The young Greeks like many Europeans looking for festivities, come to celebrate in this cosmopolitan city, which has many bars and clubs open all night! An experience not to miss if you come to visit Skiathos!

11. Tours from the island of Skiathos

A boat ride around the island

If there is a must-see in Skiathos, it is a boat ride around the island. Many companies offer this kind of trip, on board a sailboat, a catamaran or a yacht.

This experience will allow you to enjoy incredible views and access to hidden beaches, accessible only by boat! You can also decide rent a boat directly on site , to realize your exit independently.

The discovery of the Sporades islands

A day’s time, board a boat and explore the other Sporades islands. You can spend the day on board and tour the islands, between several moments of bathing.

You can also choose to discover one of the islands more precisely. Your boat will take you to the island of Skopelos, Alonissos, or Skyros, to discover the treasures they contain!

How to go to Skiathos?

You want to go to Skiathos and ask yourself how to get there? They tell you everything here!

By plane from France

Skiathos Island has an airport, 2 kilometres from Skiathos Chora city centre. And it could even be part of our list of the must-sees to do in Skiathos as it is impressive. Certainly one of the most impressive in the world, with that of Saint Martin! Depending on your departure city, you will certainly have a stopover at Athens .

To discover the most interesting flights, do not hesitate to use a flight comparison such as Ulysses . This one will help you to find the best offers for your trips!

The airport is less than 5 minutes’ drive from the centre of the city of Skiathos. You can rent a car directly at the airport for the duration of your trip. You can also opt for the taxi option. The journey will cost you about 6 € .

Finally, even more economical, you should know that there is a bus that travels between the airport and the city centre of Skiathos. The price varies depending on the stop and is between 1,20 € and 1,60 € .

Ferry from Greece

It is also possible to visit the island of Skiathos by ferry, from Volos, Athens, the other islands of Soprades, Skopelos and Alonissos, or from Mantoudi or Agios Konstantinos to mainland Greece.

Where to stay in Skiathos?

The island offers a wide choice of accommodation, for all tastes and budgets. It is in the capital, Skiathos Chora, that the offer is the most important and varied. If you are looking for lively evenings, you will not be disappointed. If, on the other hand, you prefer a quieter place to rest, we recommend you go to other small villages on the island, such as Koukounaries or Vromolimnos.

From luxury hotel rooms to small charming accommodations, you will necessarily find your happiness by taking a look at a Compare hotels , or by shitting an unusual foot-to-ground on Airbnb . A last tip if you choose to visit Skiathos: think to book in advance, especially during the summer period.

So, ready to visit Skiathos? One thing is certain, you will not be disappointed!