Skiathos is the most visited of the Sporades, and it is easy to understand why. A small island of extraordinary natural beauty — pine forests running down to turquoise water, a lively harbour town, excellent beaches — it offers a combination of natural splendour and good facilities that is hard to match.

The Island

Skiathos is small — around 49 square kilometres — with a permanent population of around 6,000 people. The landscape is lush and green, dominated by pine forests that cover most of the island and run almost to the water's edge. The main settlement is Skiathos Town, a lively harbour town with a good waterfront, excellent restaurants and a nightlife scene that is among the liveliest in the Sporades.

Sights and Attractions

Skiathos Town is the island's hub — a beautiful, lively town with two harbours, a maze of lanes in the old town and a waterfront of cafes and restaurants. The Bourtzi — a small fortified islet in the harbour — is connected to the town by a causeway and offers good views.

The Monastery of Evangelistria in the hills above the town is one of the most important religious sites in the Sporades — it was here that the first Greek flag was raised in 1807. The monastery is still inhabited and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustle of the town.

The Kastro — the old fortified capital on the north coast — is a dramatic ruin of Byzantine and Venetian fortifications, accessible by boat or a long walk. The views from the walls are extraordinary.

Beaches

Skiathos has over 60 beaches — an extraordinary number for such a small island. Koukounaries is the most famous — a long, sweeping bay of golden sand backed by a pine forest, with clear water and good facilities. It is one of the finest beaches in Greece. Banana Beach (Krassa) is popular with a younger crowd. Lalaria on the north coast is accessible only by boat — a dramatic pebble beach below white limestone cliffs, with a natural arch.

Eating and Drinking

The food on Skiathos is good, with a wide range of options from traditional Greek tavernas to international restaurants. Windmill in Skiathos Town is the place for a romantic dinner with views; Carnayo on the waterfront is excellent for fish. The nightlife in the town is lively — the main street (known as the Papadiamantis Street) has bars and clubs that stay open until dawn.

How to Get There

Skiathos has an airport with direct flights from the UK and other European cities. By sea, it is served by ferry from Volos and Agios Konstantinos on the mainland (around 1.5–3 hours) and connects to Skopelos and Alonnisos.

Best For

Skiathos suits a wide range of travellers — those who want excellent beaches and a lively atmosphere, families who want good facilities and clear water, and those who want a beautiful Sporades island with easy access from the UK.

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Thinking about Skiathos? Talk to us — we can combine it with Skopelos and Alonnisos for a Sporades itinerary that takes in the best of the island group.