Here’s a list of the 15 best things to do in Skiathos (Greece), along with famous landmarks, museums, and other points of interest.
Skiathos is a Greek island in the Northern Sporades group, located west of Skopelos in the northwest Aegean Sea. The island has been inhabited since Ancient times, and although it’s relatively small, there is a lot to discover and enjoy on the island of Skiathos.
In this article, I’m sharing some of the best places to visit in Skiathos as well as attractions and beaches that shouldn’t be missed while visiting.
Evangelistria Monastery
Around 5 km north of Skiathos Town you will find the interesting Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria which is built on the mountain slopes of northern Skiathos.
The monastery dates to the 18th century and is known for its thick walls that once served as a measure of protection for its inhabitants. On the inside, the monastery features many icons as well as artifacts like rare books and manuscripts from the 17th century.
Apart from the monastery, visitors will also find a folklore museum here as well as a shop selling local products including wine and olive oil.
Lalaria Beach
Lalaria Beach is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe. This natural marvel can only be reached on a boat as it is completely surrounded by impassable cliffs.
What makes the beach so beautiful is its secludedness and the often very dramatic rock formations reaching into the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
The white pebbles make the turquoise water look incredible. Words can not do it justice, you definitely can not miss coming here when you are on Skiathos.
Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower
One of the cultural and spiritual highlights of Skiathos is the Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower found in Skiathos Town. They are located right in the lovely harbor area and are considered some of the city’s most popular attractions.
Despite its lovely architecture, this Greek Orthodox church is mostly known for its fantastic view over the city and the sea which is why numerous photographers come here every day.
The views are also very impressive during the night so if you want to avoid the crowds come here after sunset.
Kastro
Kastro is a village located on Skiathos’ northern coast and offers defensive structures that are great examples of the measures undertaken centuries ago to protect islands against plundering pirates.
The elevated position on a cliff above the Aegean Sea allowed the residents to control a large area using a number of canons that were stationed here.
Some of the canons are still here today and are quite impressive due to their large size. Kastro also offers a beach and some lovely village roads and is definitely worth a visit when coming to the island.
Mandraki Beach
Mandraki Beach is located at the island’s western end and is a great place for relaxed hours in the sun. Apart from a tavern that serves good food and drinks the area is totally untouched and natural.
The beach features a nice stretch of sand that is great for kids as well as calm waters that are ideally suited for bathing. There are sunbeds and umbrellas here that can be rented but there is also plenty of unoccupied space that offers more serenity.
The pine-forest behind the beach is great for some hiking as well and adds to the pristine atmosphere at Mandraki beach.
Skiathitiko Spiti
One of the most atmospheric museums in all of Skiathos is the fascinating Skiathitiko Spiti. This house dates to the early 20th century and has since then been perfectly conserved in order to showcase visitors the traditional island way of life.
On the insides, a rich collection of historic artifacts await the visitor including original furniture, weaving machines, weapons and tools, and much more. Almost all the daily activities and special celebrations deeply rooted in the island’s culture are presented here.
Tsougria Beach
Tsougria Beach is located on a small islet across Skiathos Town and is connected to the mainland by a frequent boat service from the harbor. Coming here is very much worth it for the lovely sandy beaches and the relaxed atmosphere.
The Taverna located here is known for serving great comfort food and there are also beach chairs available that are very inviting if you are planning to relax for a while. Just south of the beach is a lovely church that is also worth exploring.
Papadiamantis House Museum
The Papadiamantis House museum is dedicated to the great namesake writer who lived on the island in the 19th century. The house is well conserved and generally very basic, reflecting the living conditions of its inhabitants.
Particularly interesting is the writer’s personal room that resembles a monastery cell more than regular living quarters.
Visitors get to experience a rich collection of personal artifacts depicting the life of Papadiamantis as well as many information boards that are great to educate yourself about the writer.
Photo: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock.com
Skiathos Old Town
Skiathos boasts a lovely old town that is inviting for visitors and belongs to the places that really shouldn’t be missed when coming to the island.
The old town stretches from the harbor to the city center and many of the streets here have been partially turned into pedestrian areas which makes exploring the area very easy.
Make sure to spend some time in the marina as there are many yachts here as well as great cafes and restaurants, serving Greek food.
Diving
Similar to many other Greek islands, Skiathos is a great place for diving. There are numerous excellent diving centers on the island offering diving courses but also guided dives catering to experienced divers.
Some reefs can be explored here as well as uninhabited islands that offer fantastic wildlife. Almost all of the villages popular amongst tourists offer at least one or two diving centers so wherever you might are diving is always an attractive opportunity.
Koukounaries Beach
Koukounaries Beach is one of the island’s most popular beaches. It is known for its large stretch of sand and is almost completely surrounded by a large lagoon.
Lush pine forests are reaching all the way to the beach and add a lot of scenic beauty. Watersports of all varieties are offered here. Keep in mind that the beach gets very busy during the summer months so you might not have too much space for yourself if you come here during the afternoon.
The Blue House Art Gallery
Skiathos Town offers a great attraction for art lovers visiting the island, the Blue House Art Gallery. This lovely place is located right at the seafront of the harbor area and offers fantastic local jewelry that can be a great souvenir for when you are returning home.
Of course, this is also a great place to go gift hunting. All the jewelry is hand-made and often inspired by the island and its culture. If you value individual art that stands out from the mass-produced products you normally encounter this is a great place for you.
Banana Beach
Banana Beach is often considered as the most beautiful beach reachable by car on all of Skiathos. You will find beautiful sand here as well as a beautiful backdrop of lush pine forests and dunes.
There is only one hotel situated here which gives the beach a somewhat untouched feel even though it does get relatively busy during the summer. The surrounding pine forests offer pleasant footpaths for when you get tired of sunbathing.
Skiathos Museum of Ancient Greek Technology by Kotsanas Museum
One of the most interesting museums on the island is without a doubt the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the proud technologies of ancient Greece.
It is situated in a Venetian building and consists of 460 square meters of exhibition space. The collection has been expanded over time and today features around 55 exhibits.
Amongst the most interesting exhibits are the Hydraulic Clock of Ktesibios and the cinema of Heron. All the exhibits are fully functional and are often a fascinating site for younger visitors too, making sure that everyone enjoys a visit to the Skiathos Museum of Ancient Greek Technology.
Sail around the island with Soulsail
Soulsail is one of the most prestigious sailing companies on Skiathos and offers fantastic sailing trips around the island and its surroundings.
Some of the trips lead to uninhabited islands full of beautiful untouched nature and wildlife and are very much recommended. One thing that makes Soulsail stand out from the rest is that the captain and his crew are absolutely fantastic hosts.
They make sure everyone feels comfortable and welcome on board. Needless to say, the sailing ships are top-notch and safety is always a priority. A sailing tour around the island is one of the best things to do in Skiathos.
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