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The complete guide to Skiathos

 

Silky sand beaches, teal-tinted oceans and traditional towns packed with charm… that’s the make-up of Skiathos. Get ready for a Greek getaway like no other.

Love holidaying in Greece but ready to try somewhere new? Give Skiathos a go! This dreamy island in the Sporades archipelago offers a taste of authentic Greece. That means you can expect whitewashed towns filled with old world wonders, picturesque natural beauty spots and some of the best sea views across the Aegean. And of course, not forgetting the crave-worthy cuisine on offer!

Ready to take a look around? Here’s just a snapshot of what you’ve got to look forward to on a Skiathos holiday…

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Brilliant beaches

Skiathos is a Shangri-la of satin sandy beaches flanked by emerald green pine trees. There’s everything from secluded spots that rarely get crowded to more popular stretches that are lined with tavernas and boast plenty of water sport opportunities.

If you don’t mind sharing the sand with the shelly and the feathered, head to Agia Paraskevi Beach in Platanias where swans and terrapins while away their days! Lay down your towel or hire loungers.

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Spectacular sights

Wander along the mosaic-paved alleyways of Skiathos Town and you’ll be delighted by the sights. The Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower is one of Skiathos’ most famous landmarks, it featured in Mamma Mia after all. The steps are steep but the views from the top are out of this world.

Step back in time at the Evangelistra Monastery which is built into the mountainside and dates to the 18th century. From its privileged position, you can also admire some sensational sea views.

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Activities for all ages

Fitness fans and avid adventurers, you’ve hit the jackpot here. Boat trips, hiking trails, cycling and horse riding… this is just a small selection of the activities available on Skiathos. Prefer to relax? You’ll be pleased to hear there are many ways to fill those lazy days too… phew!

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Eating and drinking

Seafoodies, rejoice – you’re in for a treat around these parts. Sit down to freshly-netted fish with views of the rippling blue water or hunt down a hidden gem on one of the town’s tucked away backstreets. Want to grab and go? A sizzling souvlaki (meat skewer) or a packed-to-the-brim gyros could well be the answer.

Locals in Skiathos don’t do desserts by halves either. If you’ve got any room to squeeze in something sweet after your meal, then you’re in for a treat. Favourites include sweet and syrupy baklava and loukoumades – deep-fried balls of yum!

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A spot of retail therapy

From driftwood art to pompom slippers, dainty ceramics to quirky antiques, Skiathos Town is the place for hunting down those take-home treasures! Many of the best shops are down on the Old Port, so you can bob from one boutique to the next with swoon-worthy sea views to boot.

Why not take a little piece of the island home with you too, in the form of locally-produced ouzo and olive oil? These are two of the island’s biggest exports and you can see them being made before your very eyes – you can’t get more authentic than that!

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Nightlife

Skiathos’ after dark scene has two sides. On one hand, there’s the traditional tavernas tucked down quaint cobbled alleyways where you can dine to your heart’s content on yummy Greek delights. On the other, there’s a handful of bustling bars where crowds spill onto the warm moonlit streets.

Staying up after the clock strikes midnight? Many of the family-run bars here go with the flow when it comes to their opening times. You could while away the nights chatting with locals and sampling the local tipples and before you know it, hours have passed by!

Tempted by this charming Greek island?

Please note that Mamma Mia is not responsible for any element of this blog and has in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered this blog.

Posted: 26th Oct 2019. Updated: 14th Sept 2023.

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