Compare Skiathos holidays

What to do in Skiathos

With a regular bus service that connects the coastal hotspots, as well as water taxis operating throughout the summer season, it’s easy to get out and about in Skiathos. And by doing so, you’ll discover a wonderful array of hidden beaches, hillside hikes and ancient churches to create the quintessential Skiathos holiday.

Koukounariés beach and beyond

Holidays in Skiathos are all about the beaches. There are around 60 to explore, often backed by fresh-scented pine forests and olive trees. In the south, they’re set up with sun loungers and watersports, while in the north you’ll find remote beaches that offer quieter sunbathing spots.

Koukounariés is one of the best-known spots in the south-west, set within a protected nature reserve and with stunning turquoise water. Bag yourself a sun-lounger early and spend the day enjoying extended happy hours at the beach bars. While you’re in the area, Vromólimnos, Maratha and Tsougrias beaches are equally worth a visit.

Skiathos old town

Wandering Skiathos Town’s warren of narrow backstreets and squares makes for a pleasant afternoon. Head away from the busy, tourist-centric harbour for a picturesque uphill walk to find excellent views of the ocean.

Along the way, Papadiamantis House Museum takes you inside the home of Skiathos-born Greek fiction writer, Alexandros Papadiamantis. Then, Skiathitiko Spiti gives a unique insight into island life.

Evangelistrías

This village is home to an elegant 18th-century monastery and is the start or ending point for a half-day hike around Skiathos’ northern hills. There’s a small museum with artefacts from the Balkan Wars, as well as a café and a gift shop selling local wine, marmalade and olive oil.

It’s a 4km walk (around three miles) to Evangelistrías from Skiathos Town, or buses run directly to the monastery. If you decide to take on a longer hike, follow the waymarked trail for route 18, which leads to Kastro and loops past several countryside churches.

Lalária beach

Lalária beach, with its dramatic clifftop background, smooth pebble shore and natural rock archway is a must-visit attraction in Skiathos. You may well recognise it as you sail up, as this iconic best beach contender proudly features on many a Greek postcard.

It’s tricky to reach by car, so the best way to get there is via one of the daily summer boat trips that leave from Skiathos Town.

Diving

By now, you’ll be keen to jump into the crystalline sea, and there’s no better way of getting close to the underwater wildlife than by going diving or snorkelling. Several reputable dive companies can be found along the south coast, with trips that include the pretty islets around Skiathos.

If you’re keen to make diving a focus of your holiday, look out for multi-dive deals, which can be good value.

Where to stay in Skiathos

For families

There are family-friendly hotels and apartments all along the southern coastline of Skiathos. If you’re travelling with younger kids in tow, head west from the airport to be near the best sandy beaches for convenient amenities and watersports.

Troulos is an attractive resort, with a golden beach and plenty of restaurants and cafes. It’s also within easy reach of Vromólimnos, a low-key beach that’s quieter than party beaches like Big Banana Beach, and has plenty of watersports.

For food and drink

Whether you want a simple café lunch, grilled octopus by the sea, or an authentic Greek salad, Skiathos has it all. The island caters to all sorts of tourists and there are a huge variety of restaurants to choose from.

Base yourself in Skiathos Town to experience the full culinary offering. Not only are there lots of restaurants and bars in town and along the harbour, you can also get away from the main tourist zone to find more traditional fare in the nearby hills.

For nightlife

The main nightclubs are in Skiathos Town, along the harbour and on the road leading back towards the airport. Here, you’ll find the island’s most lively all-night parties, as well as a good selection of restaurants and bars.

Slightly further out of town, Achladies Bay is a pretty spot that has a more relaxed nightlife scene and plenty of cocktail bars. From here, it’s a quick taxi ride back to Skiathos Town if you feel like having a more energetic night out.

For culture

While much of Skiathos is geared up for a fly-and-flop holiday, you can still find the island’s traditional culture in the north. It’s less built up, so you’ll likely need to book accommodation in the south, then visit for a day trip.

With a base in Skiathos Town, you can hike or take a bus to the Monastery of Evangelistria. From here, head further north to reach the restored ruins at Kastro. Among these hillside villages, there are many fresco-filled ancient churches to visit, as well as a handful of Greek tavernas.