our 8 good reasons!

Eastern Skiathos a small island in the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea. Livelier than its neighbors Alonissos, Skyros and Skopelos, it has many natural and cultural assets to offer. With its heavenly beaches, its many hiking trails, its historical monuments and the festive life of its capital, it is thean ideal destination to enjoy the charms of a Greek island. Prepare your sunscreen and your walking shoes: we take you to discover 8 reasons to visit the island of Skiathos !

Small clarification: the island is a victim of its success in the summer period, approximately from July 15 to August 15…

1. Walk the lively streets of the capital of the island of Skiathos

Visiting the island of Skiathos often begins with the discovery of its capital: the town of Skiathos, also called Chora, as often in the Greek islands. Located in the southeast of the island, it is built in stairs around a splendid bay. Since the sea rises a delightful maze of narrow streets lined with superb white houses with traditional architecture.

To do, to visit:

• The old Port : it is one of the most beautiful places in the city. Indeed, it is the economic and cultural heart of Skiathos. Very lively in the evening, do not hesitate to have a cocktail and enjoy the view of the boats! As you walk along the old port, you will also discover the remains of the old fortress of Bourtzi, which stands on a small island at the entrance to the port. This Venetian fortress offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the surrounding Aegean Sea.
• Plakes : Located just behind the port, it is the ideal place to taste local dishes while enjoying the warm and friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood. Stroll through these old cobbled streets and traditional houses.
• THE Viewpoint of Agios Nikolaos overlooking the old town of Chora
• Papadiamantis Street : this is the main commercial street of the city. In the evening, the street is pedestrianized. So, it’s the place for souvenir shops, cafes… But we always take the small adjacent streets dotted with flowers, small courtyards…

But Skiathos is not only the peaceful charm of a seaside village. Indeed, the city is dotted with many restaurants, bars and shops as lively as they are welcoming. The atmosphere is warm and lively. In summer, the atmosphere turns to the party and the nightlife attracts many vacationers from all over Greece. Something to enjoy before heading out into nature!

2. Bask on stunningly beautiful beaches

The island of Skiathos is known for its many beaches, each one more splendid than the next. And there’s something for everyone !

• Are you looking for stretches of fine sand and turquoise waters worthy of the Caribbean? The famous beach of Koukounaries will meet all your expectations.
• Do you prefer a young, musical and unbridled atmosphere? The very lively beach of Banana will invite you to the party.
• Do you prefer to get away from the crowds to enjoy a less accessible setting? The wild beaches of Lalaria and Mandraki (also called Elia) will delight you.
• The large sandy beach Agia Eleni is also greatly appreciated
• As well as the magnificent beach of Troulos

Impossible not to find the beach of your dreams on the island of Skiathos! Take the opportunity to try your hand at water sports, such as diving in clear watersof the Aegean Sea or kitesurfing in Koukounaries! If you want to try scuba diving:

3. Try a cruise to discover coves and beaches

Here is the precious testimony of Jean-Marie, friend of Vivre Athènes. A big thank-you !

Jean Marie

Whether a beautiful cruise tempts youwe can only recommend VoiliVoilou a local agency run by a Franco-Greek who offers sailboats for hire with or without a skipper.

We also spotted these day trips on Get Your Guide but unfortunately not yet tested:

And if you dream of putting yourself at the helm and sailing around Skiathos without a boat license, we advise you Click&Boatto live an unforgettable day!

4. Sink into spectacular sea caves

In the north of the island of Skiathos, the superb beach of Lalaria has a big surprise in store: it is home to two sea caves whose visit will leave you with an unforgettable memory .

• Skopili Cave presents a disturbing first sight. Only one boat at a time can enter it as its entrance is narrow. This dark and strange atmosphere is precisely what gives it all its charm!
• The cave of Galaziais much larger. It owes its name (“the blue cave”) to the astonishing color of the water enclosed between its walls.

These two spectacular caves are accessible by boat. You can also reach them by swimming from Lalaria Beach. Goosebumps and wonder guaranteed!

5. Hike in the heart of splendid natural landscapes

If you like walking in nature, whatever your level of endurance, the island of Skiathos will appear to you as a small paradise! The beautiful landscapes of the island shelter 25 developed hiking trails . The marked routes offer more or less sporty walks lasting from 1 hour to 7 hours.

Here are some of the most popular hikes in Skiathos:

1. Kastro Trail : This hike takes you to the ruins of Kastro Fortress, offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. The trail winds through countryside, olive groves and rocky landscapes.
2. Southwest Coast Trail : It allows you to explore the southwest coast of the island. You can discover hidden coves, spectacular cliffs and unspoiled nature.
3. Trail from Troullos to Koukounaries : This hike connects two of the most popular beaches of Skiathos. Following this trail, you will pass through pine forests, sand dunes and beautiful coastal scenery. So take the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters!
4. Moni Evangelistrias Trail : This trail takes you to the monastery of Moni Evangelistrias, located in the mountains of Skiathos. The hike allows you to discover a verdant nature of pines and cypresses, panoramic views and a glimpse of monastic life.

Many hiking trails cross the forests that cover the island. In addition to providing you with pleasant shade, they shelter exceptional fauna and flora in an idyllic setting. A real spectacle!

To organize our hikes, we like the site AllTrails which lists different routes specifying the distance, the level of difficulty, with photos and comments from other hikers. The website Wikiloc will also give you some ideas for beautiful walks.

6. Discover the Bourtzi peninsula and its Venetian fortress

7. Visit the home of the great Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis

Do you know the writer Alexandros Papadiamantis? This outstanding author of 20th century Greek literature is from the city of Skiathos. Today, his house near the port has become a must-see museum when visiting the island . It is small, very simple and is of interest to fans of Greek literature.

The dwelling of traditional architecture opens onto an almost intact interior. We discover the daily decor, the furniture and the personal effects of the famous novelist.

An amazing experience that will make you want to discover or rediscover the work of the founder of modern literature in Greece!

Useful information:

The Alexandros Papadiamantis Museum is located in the port town of Skiatos at 12 Papadiamanti. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

8. Immerse yourself in history at the Evangelistria Monastery

There you have it, you have 8 good reasons to come and visit the island of Skiathos! You can ideally combine your stay in Skiathos with a visit to the other islands of the Sporades. Discover all our articles about the Sporades here and create your ideal trip to the islands of this magnificent archipelago!

Sandra B. and the Vivre Athènes team