Skiathos holidays

For families, Skiathos makes for a perfect escape – think snorkelling in clear waters, scenic boat trips and horseback rides through lush green landscapes (the dunes of Koukounariés are a popular pick).

Party animal? Skiathos pretty much waits until winter to sleep. The nightlife scene is focused predominantly around Skiathos Town and down along the southern coastline, which is dotted with beach resorts, cocktail bars and tavernas wafting the aroma of freshly cooked seafood. The sun sets this side in summer too, with golden skies that make a romantic start to any night out.

From November to March, the weather will be a lot cooler with a chance of rain, and many of the hotels, restaurants and bars close down for the winter.

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.

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 travellers on a budget

Having a reputation for some of the best sandy beaches in Greece means holidays to Skiathos don’t usually come cheap. However, it's possible to find deals when you travel outside of peak season.

Skiathos Town has several budget options within a short walk of the harbour. Prices rise as you head further out towards the beach resorts, but shop around and you'll still find a few bargains. If you’re willing to base yourself further inland, there are many more cheap Skiathos package deals to be found.

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.