Skiathos is one of the most famous Greek islands and belongs to the prefecture of Magnesia, being a popular destination for summer holidays. It is known for its summer beaches with white sand and clear blue waters, dense vegetation and intense nightlife. It is a favorite destination for anyone looking for beautiful beaches, nightlife, and a traditional atmosphere.
You can reach the island of Skiathos either by air or by ferry from the port of Volos or from Mantoudi in Evia. We chose ferryscanner to search for ferry schedules and easily and quickly book our tickets.
The name of Skiathos
According to tradition, Skiathos means in the shadow of Athos, i.e. Mount Athos. An important element of the spiritual heritage of the island is the male monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, located near the port and built on the highest peak of Skiathos, 12 minutes by car from the port of Skiathos. It goes without saying that we dedicated an afternoon to visit it.
Holy Monastery of Evangelistria Skiathos
During our visit to the Monastery, we came into contact with a monk. Thus, we learned that the Monastery was a center of revolutionary movements during many important historical wars. It contributed both morally and materially to the pre-revolutionary efforts and the revolution of 1821. In 1807, at this location, the first Greek flag with a white cross and a blue background was designed and raised, making the Monastery important in Greek history and spiritual heritage. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Greece and the only one still operating today on the island.
Skiathos
The island of Skiathos, one of the most beloved Greek islands, is a true paradise for lovers of nature, crystal beaches, and authentic Greek hospitality. In this 6-day trip we experienced unforgettable moments, which we will share with you below.
4 special beaches we visited
Limani Xerxi
Limani Xerxi beach is located in the northern part of the island. It is said that Xerxes set off from this island to Artemisium. You reach this beach by crossing an easy path through the beautiful forest of Mandraki. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Skiathos
Limani Xerxi beach offers organized facilities, including sunbeds and umbrellas, while there are also canteens for food and drink. Ideal beach for anyone looking for a calm beach with clear waters, but also easy access to the facilities and services needed for an enjoyable day at the beach.
Mandraki Elias
Mandraki Elias beach is one of the beautiful beaches of Skiathos. It is located near the Port of Xerxes, on the north side of the island. The beach takes its name from the many olive trees found in the surrounding landscape, giving it a natural shade and beautiful atmosphere. To reach the beach you will cross an easy forest path.
Skiathos
Mandraki Elias is a quiet beach with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is ideal for relaxation. It does not have as many organized facilities as some other beaches, thus offering an authentic experience in nature. On the beach you will also find a wonderful canteen where you can enjoy tsipouraki and snacks.
Kastro Beach
Kastro beach is located very close to the beautiful, ancient settlement of Skiathos, which was built on a hill, offering an amazing view of the sea. It is the medieval capital of Skiathos and was founded when Skiathians were forced to abandon the ancient city of Skiathos due to constant pirate raids and move to the northern part of the island for protection. It’s about half an hour by car from the city, but the road stops just before the castle. Then you will need to walk on the beautiful cobblestones, which however requires a relatively good physical condition.
Kastro beach is a small sandy beach with clear waters and a view of Kastro bay. It is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet beach to relax and enjoy the sun and sea. There are no sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach, so it is good to have the necessary supplies with you. But there is a sweet little taverna at the edge of the beach, offering delicious snacks and an amazing view.
I dare to say that it is the beach that stands out in Skiathos for its natural beauty, location and historical importance.
Xanemos beach
Xanemos beach is one of the many beautiful beaches you can find on the island of Skiathos. This beach is located near the airport of Skiathos and is a great destination to enjoy peace, sea and planes literally taking off over your head. Due to its location, it can be a convenient destination for a quick dip in the sea before or after your flight.
2 more beaches within walking distance of Skiathos town
Plakes
Plakes Walking in Upper Skiathos, follow the signs for Plakes. It is an idyllic spot on the edge of the island, where you can leave your things on the slabs and dive straight in. Great, scenic spot to sit as the sun sets. You’ll find many locals sitting along the path to catch their afternoon breeze.
Bourtzi
Bourtzi is a small peninsula that essentially divides Skiathos into 2 parts. Once a fortress, today it is a popular place for relaxation and recreation. The area is full of tall pine trees that offer a stunning view of the surroundings. There are still many archaeological remains to explore throughout the region.
There you will also find the Bourtzi Skiathos cafe, where you can enjoy coffee, food and cocktails, enjoying an excellent view! What’s even more wonderful is that from the cafeteria you have access, via a staircase, to the rocks below, where you can take a dip in crystal clear waters.
Cruise to Skopelos and Alonissos
For a bit of a change of scenery, we decided to take a cruise to the nearby islands of Skopelos and Alonissos. This experience allowed us to discover the peaceful beaches and picturesque villages of the other 2 islands of the Sporades. We chose elisabetcruises elisabet and came back excited. The whole crew was so kind and fun, they were dancing themselves, getting us to dance too. On this excursion we passed by the location where Mamamia was filmed, we had 2 hours in Skopelos, which we will definitely return to visit, we took a dip and tried fresh tuna on the island of Alonissos, which we also want to explore in the future. On the way back we had 2 hours to enjoy the beautiful beach of Skopelos, Kastani beach.
Of course, from Skiathos you can choose between many daily cruises. A unique experience is visiting the well-known Lalaria beach, which you cannot get to otherwise, or the relaxed island of Tsougria with its sandy beaches and its tavern. Click here to choose your cruise.
Taverns to enjoy
The Anatoli tavern is a very good & quiet choice since it is mainly known to the locals of the island. Very good quality food, beautiful environment and great view. You will also enjoy tsipouraki at the Sklithri tavern, at the Sklithri beach which is outside the country of Skiathos. Be sure to reserve a table at the Amfilikis tavern, 8 minutes from the port of Skiathos. It has a perfect view from above and the freshest seafood you will taste on the island.
Sunset to be enchanted
Sunset to be enchanted You will see the most beautiful and peaceful sunset on the island at the small church of Agios Alexandros. It is a private chapel, which means you cannot go inside but offers an incredible view of the entire Aegean. From its courtyard you will notice that you can see Skiathos Castle and Pelion. Little known church that only a few will have the honor to visit and enjoy!
Nightlife in Skiathos
The most famous point of reference for your night walk on the island are the famous pillows of Skiathos. A beautiful place to enjoy your drink on cobbled steps. But ok, despite being touristy, our goal is for you to spend time in Skiathos discovering more local gems.
Thus, we will initially talk about the oldest bar on the island, the “Kentauros” bar. A bar that stands in the same space and has been exactly the same for over 40 years on the island. Be there after 11, cause it stays open until late in the morning. You’ll hear music from the DJ who still plays on CDs.
Another bar that won us over for its uniqueness is Tesla. Exactly on the same street as the “Kentauros” bar. At Tesla, every night you will have the opportunity to enjoy live music from a band and a perfect setting that will let you travel you to another era and, if nothing else, get you up to dance.
Goodbye, Skiathos!
Our last day in Skiathos was dedicated to Papadiamanti Street, where we walked and shopped, as well as visited the house where Alexandros Papadiamantis lived.
A few words about the most central street of the island
Papadiamanti Street in Skiathos is one of the most famous and important streets on the island. This street passes through the city center and is known for its beautiful traditional buildings, cafes, restaurants, shops with local products and small alleys that surround it. It was named after Alexandros Papadiamanti, one of the most important Greek writers of the 19th century. He was born in 1851 in Skiathos and lived on the island for the first years of his life, where it was a source of inspiration for many of his works. Papadiamantis’ house in Skiathos, which today functions as a museum, is a remarkable cultural destination for visitors to the island.
Skiathos is truly a destination that combines natural beauty, culture, and exceptional hospitality. This trip left us with unforgettable memories and the desire to return to this paradise again.
Every day in Skiathos is a new adventure worth living!
Read also: Syros: 4 days in the princess of Cyclades
