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Skiathos Travel Guide
History
Skiathos History
Skiathos was inhabited even from the prehistoric ages. The Pelasgians were the first inhabitants, followed by the Cretans. During the 7th century BC, the island was inhabited by the Chalkideis, who built their settlement on the southeastern part of the island, on a hill, so they could have two ports. This same town was still inhabited during the Classical, Byzantine and Hellenistic eras.
Skiathos gravely suffered from pirates’ attacks during the Byzantine era, but also during the Venetian and the Ottoman occupation, which started in 1538. Skiathos’ history is linked to the infamous pirate Barbarossa, who was the mastermind behind the Ottoman fleet. The pirate -after a siege that lasted for 6 days- took over and looted the island.
On September of 1807 the first Greek flag, with the blue background and the white cross in the middle, was weaved in the Monastery of Virgin Mary’s Annunciation. This monastery was also operating as a hospital during the Greek Revolution of 1821. Skiathos became free in 1830, with the rest of Greece.
Mythology
From a mythological point of view
The history of Skiathos travels back to the Golden Age, a period of the Greek mythology, according to which there are five or even more Ages of Man. During the Golden Age, the Titans were ruling the world. These were powerful deities who were always at war with the Olympian Gods. Otos and Ephialtes were the trouble-making sons of Iphimedia and Poseidon. They were very aggressive and audacious. At the age of nine they were 50 feet tall and could literally move mountains. During one of their infamous clashes, they got so angry that they started throwing rocks to each other. These rocks ended up in the sea and this is how the cluster of Sporades (Skiathos, Skyros, Alonissos and Skopelos) was created.
The story behind the name
There are two versions regarding how Skiathos got its name. According to the first, Skiathos was the name given to the island by the Pelasgians, who were its first inhabitants, because they were greatly impressed by the shadow (“skia” in Greek) created by the island’s lush vegetation and the name of the sacred Mount Athos, located about 140Km to the northeast of Skiathos. So we had Skia and Athos, which became Skiathos. According to the second version, the name Skiathos derived from Dionysus, the God of Wine, who was mostly worshiped on the island. His cult name was “Skianthios”, which is obviously very similar to Skiathos.
Hotels
Sightseeing
The House of Alexandros Papadiamantis
One of Greece’s most prominent writers and poets. His house was built by his father in 1860, it has two floors and it’s quite simple. Today it’s a museum, with the writer’s books, clothes and various artifacts. It’s located on the eastern part of the town, in a small dead-end street (tel. +30 24270 23843).
Kastro
Kastro was established around the 14th century by the residents of Old Skiathos Town, in order to hide from the pirates that looted the island –and the entire Aegean. This small northern peninsula was like a natural fort. The castle was communicating with the main city via a wooden draw bridge. It was ruled by the Byzantines, up until 1453, by the Venetians up until 1538 and then by the Ottomans up to 1821. Today, it’s an impressive attraction. The remnants of the old buildings, the four remaining churches, a small part of the walls, a mosque, two water tanks and a big canon are there to remind us of the castle’s glorious past.
Bourtzi
Bourtzi is a small peninsula in the middle of the capital’s main port, which hosts the remnants of an old castle built in 1204. In 1906 it was turned into an elementary school and today it’s a beautiful leisure landscape with lush vegetation, lovely Aegean views and a beautiful summer theater, mostly used for cultural events.
The Monastery of the Annunciation of Virgin Mary
It is located about 6 km north of Skiathos Town. Its construction started on 1794 and concluded on 1806. This is where the first flag of the Greek state was weaved and this is where prominent heroes of the Greek Revolution swore to liberate Greece from the Ottomans. This is a major attraction, especially during the Holy week of Easter and around the 15th of August. Access is easy via private cars, the local bus and taxis.
The Church of Virgin Mary Eikonistria
This is considered as the holiest location of the island, since this is where they found the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary -around 1650. There are spectacular frescoes, dated back to the 17th century, and there is also a small monastery, attached to the church.
Lake Strofilia wetland
Lake Strofilia is located on the southwestern part of the island, right behind the famous beach of Koukounaries. Many European environmental programs and official organizations protect this rare wetland as a place of grand ecological importance. The landscape is breathtaking and nature lovers will get the chance to see up close many weird species of flora and fauna.
Eat & Drink
TYPE: Restaurant, STYLE: Mediterranean & International Cuisine
Location: Kolios
Location: Kolios
TYPE: Restaurant, STYLE: Contemporary Mediterranean Cuisine
Location: Skiathos Town
Location: Skiathos Town
TYPE: Restaurant, STYLE: Contemporary Mediterranean Cuisine
Location: Skiathos Town
Location: Skiathos Town
Practical info
General Info
CLIMATE
The climate in Skiathos is typically Mediterranean, with long sunny summers and mild winters. During the summer months the weather is mostly bright, clear and dry, with temperatures that do not exceed 30 degrees Celsius. The cooling breezes can be quite strong, especially along the coastline. Autumn and spring are similar, with temperatures that vary between 18 and 24 degrees. The heavy winter rainfalls help to maintain the island’s lush vegetation throughout the year.
TELEPHONE
National prefix for Greece is +30 if you are calling from abroad. Area Code for Skiathos is 24270 and the local phone numbers have 5 digits. If you wish to call abroad, you have to start by dialing the other country’s national prefix (i.e. Germany is 0049, England is 0044 etc.) and then continue with the desired area code and number.
CURRENCY
Euro €
Euro Coins: 1 and 2 euro coins (golden and silver color) 10, 20 and 50 cents (golden color) 1, 2 and 5 cents (copper color) 1 euro = 100 cents
Euro Bank Notes: come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. It is not always easy to receive change from 200 and 500 euro notes.
Getting There
BY BOAT
By ferry boat
Skiathos is connected by ferry boat with Volos (321 km from Athens), Agios Konstantinos (165 km from Athens) and Thessaloniki. However, during the summer months it’s also interconnected with the islands of Alonnisos and Skopelos (Sporades), as well as with Syros, Santorini, Paros, Naxos and Tinos (Cyclades) and Heraklion (Crete).Β) By flying dolphins
Skiathos is connected by flying dolphins (passengers only) with Volos (in 1 hour and 45 minutes), Agios Konstantinos (in about an hour and a half), Thessaloniki, Trikeron Island, Alonissos, Skopelos and Pelion.
Hellenic Seaways: For accurate timetables and ticket costs, please visit Hellenic Seaways’ website: www.hellenicseaways.gr
BY PLANE
There are daily flights between Athens International Airport and the island of Skiathos (Olympic Airlines www.olympicairlines.com). During the summer months there are also numerous charter flights from many European cities, like Amsterdam, Vienna, Milan, Berlin, Zurich, Oslo, Munich, Stockholm, Frankfurt etc.
Olympic Air: For accurate timetables and ticket costs, please visit Olympic Airlines’ website: www.olympicair.com
Local Trasportation
By Bus
The local transportation is reliable and frequent. The buses have three routes. The basic route, which is also the most popular one, connects the town of Skiathos with the famous beach of Koukounaries, which is about 14 km away, with 24 stops in between. These stops also include other nice beaches, like Megali Ammos, Vromolimnos, Agia Paraskevi and Troulos, all in the same direction. The second route starts from Skiathos Town and ends up in the village Xamenos, on the northeast, and the third connects Skiathos Town with the Monastery of Virgin Mary, on the northern side of the island. The tickets costs less than 2 euro.
By Taxi
The main piazza is located 50 meters from the port and operates 24 hours a day. You can call for a cab or even hail for one when you find it on the road.
Indicatively, the route Skiathos-Monastery costs about 7€, Skiathos-Vromolimnos costs about €10 and Skiathos-Koukounaries costs about 16€.
Tel.: +30 24270 24461
By Caique
Caique is a small, passengers-only boat, which in the past was exclusively used for fishing and commercial transportation of goods. Today, the locals use their caiques to tour the island or access isolated beaches and uninhabited islands.
Take a caique from the main port and visit the famous beaches of Lalaria (accessible only by boat), Aselimnos, Kastro, Achladies and Vromolimnos, or even the nearby islands of Skopelos and Alonissos (leaving from Skiathos Town at 09:30am and coming back in the evening around 17:00). Check on the weather conditions before you do so.
By Car
The road network of the island is pretty descent. However, if you are planning on exploring its northern part, consider a 4x4. The terrain is rocky and there are many dirt roads. The landscape in the rest of the island is much flatter.
Local Services
BANKS & ATMs
There are 5 major bank branches in Skiathos: National Bank of Greece, Eurobank, Emporiki Bank, Piraeus Bank and Alpha Bank. You can exchange, deposit, collect or wire transfer money at any one of them. There are ATMs throughout the island, which operate 24/7. In order to get money from a debit card, you need to find out if this card is participating in the MAESTRO network.
Banks’ operating hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8.00 - 14.30 and Friday: 8.00 - 14.00
MONEY EXCHANGE
You can exchange money, travelers’ cheques or Eurocheques at any of the banks of the island. Avoid exchanging money at a hotel, because they usually charge a higher commission.
POST OFFICE
The Greek post is called ELTA. The main post office is located in Skiathos town, but there are post boxes all around the biggest villages of the island. Post Boxes in Greece are Yellow. If you wish to send registered mail, you need to visit the PO and don’t forget to collect your receipt.
Post office: +30 24270 22011
POLICE STATION
Do not hesitate to call the Police in case of an accident or a criminal act. If you have a problem with your hotel you can contact the Tourism Police. During the summer months, there are police patrols throughout the day.
Police: +30 24270 22240
Tourism police: +30 24270 23172
MUNICIPALITY OF SKIATHOS
Tel.: +30 24270 22240
Useful Numbers
- Skiathos port authority: 24270 22017
- Volos port authority: 24210 76710
- Agios Konstantinos port authority: 22350 31759
- Prefecture of Magnisia: 24210 75526
- Hoteliers Association: 24210 23375
- Town Hall: 24270 22022
- Olympic Airlines Skiathos: 24270 22200
INTERNATIONAL PRESS
You can find International Press –magazines and newspapers- in the main distribution center in Skiathos Town. However various kiosks, as well as big hotels, around the island and especially in popular seaside towns sell international press.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
- Police: 100
- Fire Department: 199 & 24270 21199
- Ambulance: 166
HEALTH
Skiathos Medical Centre
Acropolis Area, Skiathos Town
Tel: +30 24270 22222
PHARMACIES
You will definitely find quite a few pharmacies in Skiathos Town, but also in some of the islands biggest villages and settlements.
Find below an indicative list with pharmacists.
Panagiotopoulos Konstantinos
Glyfoneri, Skiathos
Tel: +30 24270 22242
Annis Nikolaos
19 Antipliarxou Laskou Str, Skiathos
Tel: +30 24270 24090.
Frangou Zoi & SIA OE
18 Papadiamanti Str., Skiathos
Tel: +30 24270 22021
Swim
One of the best beaches in the world!
Location:KoukounariesJustifiably among the 7 best beaches in the world! The famous pine forest (from where it got its name) reaches all the way to the water, giving the sea this extraordinary emerald color. It is very long, with extra fine golden sand and excellent infrastructure. The natural beauty is stunning. Right behind it, there is a lagoon, which is also a stunning wetland with rare fauna and flora.
Stunning exotic paradise
Location:Moni EvaggelistriasA beach famous for its round, white pebbles (where it got its name). It's accessible only by boat, weather permitted, and it doesn’t offer any shade or facilities. But the natural beauty is just stunning. On its right side, the cliffs are sculpted by the strong waves and the winds, creating a natural gate. It's definitely worth a visit.
One of the sexiest beaches of the world!
Location:KoukounariesBanana is among the most popular beaches on the island after Koukounaries and a favorite hotspot for young people. It is surrounded by a thick pine forest and an olive grove and enjoys the best sunset views on the island. It's fully organized, long, wide, with turquoise blue waters and fine golden sand. Right next to it, there is Mikri Banana, which is mostly a nudism beach.
A secluded exotic cove
Location:Mikros AsselinosNestled in the wild pristine environment this striking sandy cove is secluded by natural rock formations creating an exotic setting for serene moments of relaxation. It is a small sandy beach with few umbrellas and sun beds ideal for those seeking privacy and seclusion. Visitors can immerse in the crystalline waters and enjoy the peacefulness of nature far away from the crowded beach resorts. This beach is affected by the summer northern winds and it can become quite dangerous since it might get a little to wavy therefore it is not the perfect choice for families with children.
Popular seaside resort
Location:AchladiaThis is yet another long sandy beach and an increasingly popular resort. It has an excellent infrastructure -umbrellas, sun beds, showers-, many cozy little taverns and crystal clear waters.
A dream summer retreat for all
Location:XeniaCrowned by pine clad hills and verdurous greenery this gorgeous beach is ideal for families with young children due to its crystalline shallow waters and the long stretches of fine golden sand. Swimmers can enjoy a refreshing swim in the azure waters of the sea or unwind on the sun beds as they listen to the soothing sound of the whispering waves while children can safely run around the beach and enjoy the everlasting sun. The town of Koukounaries nearby offers many taverns and cafes serving delectable dishes and refreshments.
A beautiful pine-embraced beach!
Location:TroulosThis is a fine sandy beach, in the southern tip of the island, close to Koukounaries. It got its name from the nearby islet, which is shaped like a church's dome. The beach is well organized -umbrellas, sun beds, showers, water sports-, while there are also many fish taverns and beach bars.
A secluded hideaway
Location:Moni EvaggelistriasThis is an isolated sandy beach, surrounded by rocky cliffs. It's underneath the famous medieval castle (from where it got its name). It's usually windy and has no infrastructure, but the waters are awesome and the scenery is quite exotic.
For the lovers of seclusion and privacy
Location:StigeroSecluded by the rocks and the wild nature this remote sandy beach is ideal for those seeking privacy and peacefulness. Completely untouched by tourism it offers a serene hideaway for intimate moments of relaxation under the sun kissed sky. The thick sand and emerald waters create a feeling of serenity and calmness. It is not protected by the strong summer winds and at some points the water suddenly becomes deeper so it is not considered a family friendly beach by it’s a favorable spot for naturists.
A pristine summer retreat
Location:PlakesEncircled by the pristine nature with its large rocks and the fragrant pine trees offering adequate natural shade to swimmers this exquisite rocky beach is a beach haven of repose. The tranquil emerald waters and the gracious environment create an atmosphere of blissful harmony and peacefulness. There are many cafes and taverns nearby offering refreshments and mouthwatering delicacies as well as tourist facilities ensuring an enjoyable day in the sun.
A beach heaven of serenity
Location:AsselinosBrilliantly secluded by Kounistra mountain and the gracious natural scenery Asselinos beach is a beach haven of relaxation and peacefulness with golden thick sand and smooth pebbles. Enveloped by the lush greenery reaching all the way to the shore, visitors can dive into the emerald waters and embrace the everlasting sun as they lie on the loungers or enjoy moments of relaxation under the shade of the umbrellas. The exotic scenery and crystalline sapphire waters create a blissful environment for daily excursions.
A popular beach escapade
Location:MarathaSurrounded by tall pine trees and lush greenery offering abundant natural shade to swimmers Maratha beach is considered to be among the most popular beaches on the island offering plentiful facilities for swimming, sunbathing, beach and sea sports. A beautiful scenic tavern offering mouthwatering Greek specialties allows visitors to take a break from the sun. The crystalline waters and fine golden sand make it an ideal place for family excursions.
The elite beach destination
Location:KalamakiEnveloped by the imposing mountains and the verdant hilltops the beach of Kalamaki is one of the most popular beaches of the island due to its crystal clear sapphire waters and the peaceful environment. It is the perfect place to unwind under the sun kissed sky, succumb into the emerald waters or partake in water sports adventures. Even though the beach of Kalamaki is fully organized offering all kinds of facilities for visitors to enjoy, it retains its primitive beauty as it is the prime destination for villa and hotel residents in the area.
A tranquil beach resort
Location:FteliaEmbraced by the verdant greenery this stunningly beautiful sandy beach offers abundant facilities for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Still untouched by massive tourism it offers a haven of relaxation for fun filled moments of enjoyment as well as several seafront taverns and bars serving mouthwatering Greek delicacies and refreshments. Situated close to Ftelia village access is very easy to the beach making it ideal for families with young children.
The synonym to peacefulness
Location:GlyfoneriTowered by high hills and scarce vegetation the small cove of Glyfoneri is a remote beach that remains unfrequented even in the hot summer months. Accessible by road or boat it offers the perfect place for bathers to relax under the sizzling sun or dive into the crystalline azure waters in total peacefulness. The beach is completely unorganized therefore visitors should arrange to bring with them all necessities. The emerald waters and fine white sand create a magical setting for true moments of blissful relaxation
A popular beach retreat
Location:KoliosNuzzled in a gorgeous verdant landscape the stunningly beautiful sandy beach of Kolios is a popular beach destination for family excursions and fun filled moments of enjoyments. Abundant facilities give visitors the opportunity to swim in the crystalline emerald waters, lie on the beach under the everlasting sun or partake in water sports adventures and enjoy delicious meals and refreshments at one of the many scenic taverns and bars.
Weird name, divine beauty!
Location:KoliosThis is the second most popular beach of the island. It's long, sandy and well organized. There are many umbrellas, sun beds, beach bars, tavernas and a water sports school. Vromolimnos is known for its excellent water skiing conditions, especially in the evening.
Turquoise blue paradise…
Location:Agia ParaskeviAgia Paraskevi is a beautiful sandy beach, wind-protected with amazing turquoise blue waters and golden sand. It got its name from a picturesque and very old chapel, which is hiding underneath the shadows of perennial plane trees. It has excellent infrastructure and many accommodation options.
Picture perfect coast!
Location:KanapitsaThis is a very popular sandy beach on the peninsula of Kalamaki, in front of the homonymous village. Its emerald waters and fine sand attract many visitors. There are many accommodation options, a good infrastructure and many fish taverns, right by the water. It's idyllic, so don't forget your camera!
An exotic haven
Location:MandrakiThis is a secluded, long, sandy beach with no infrastructure. It's like an isolated haven, with white sand, shallow turquoise blue waters and amazing natural beauty. If you prefer to relax, away from the bustling crowds of the most popular beaches, visit Elia. You won't regret it!
A tranquil summer haven
Location:VasiliasThis stunningly beautiful beach, located among the perfumed pine trees, offers a tranquil environment for blissful moments of relaxation. The sapphire waters, the fine golden sun and the breathtaking views create an atmosphere of total peacefulness and calm. Visitors can unwind on the loungers, immerse in the crystalline waters or enjoy some water sports adventures. Several taverns and bars offer a refreshing break with fresh fish and delicious Greek dishes to the thirsty swimmers.
Paradise coast…
Location:Skiathos TownA beautiful long sandy beach and a well-developed seaside resort, with many taverns and rooms to let. Its proximity -access even by foot- to the island's capital makes it very popular and well organized.
The exotic beach haven
Location:MandrakiSet in a gorgeous exotic landscape with high hills and lush vegetation this strikingly beautiful beach is a paradisiacal haven of relaxation and peacefulness untouched by massive tourism. Completely unorganized it offers a blissful environment for relaxing escapes, swimming, sunbathing and fun filled moments under the sun. Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views to the endless horizon and the stunning natural landscape as they listen to the whispering sounds of nature.
Map
Local Specialties & Recipes
Amygdalota
A local pastry with almonds, eggs, sugar and rosewater.
Skiathian cheese pie
A local delicacy with thin dough forming sheets, feta cheese, yogurt, milk, eggs and olive oil.
Haimalia
This is a traditional pastry, especially made for weddings and it’s offered in large baskets, after the ceremony. They are made with nuts, cognac, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, juice from 3 oranges, honey and flour. The filling is usually prepared the night before the wedding and the actual sweet on the day of the wedding so it can be fresh and crunchy.
Kakavia
A delicious soup with potatoes, onions, olive oil, lemon juice and about 2 kilos of fresh fish of various types.
Crawfish with cabbage
This is a traditional dish, with crawfish (or cuttlefish), greens, spring onions, tomatoes and olive oil.
Monkfish stifado
This is yet another delicious recipe with monkfish, onions, tomato, garlic, vinegar, wine, rosemary, oregano and pimento grains.
Octopus with Fava mousse
We saved the best for last. This is a mouthwatering combination! Boiled octopus, fava, garlic, onions, mustard, honey, white vinegar, rosemary and olive oil. The fava is made into a puree, as a side dish that accompanies the octopus. A recipe made in heaven.
Local Products
Local Products
You should definitely check the main market of Skiathos Town for local products, mainly agricultural and pastries. You can buy olive oil and olives, aromatic honey, delicious amygdalota and the local tablespoon sweet, with almonds.
When you visit the Monastery of Virgin Mary do not forget to buy wine, which is made by the monks. You can also buy the local tsipouro, delicious flavored liqueurs and authentic handmade pasta.
Events
Easter
This is the most important religious time of the year. On Holy Friday there are 3 epitaph processions. The first two leave at 3am from the church of the Three Hierarchs and of Virgin Mary, which are located in the center of the island, and meet in the main square of Skiathos Town. The procession continues until the early morning hours and all the houses have lit candles which burn incense. The 3rd epitaph starts from the monastery of Virgin Mary at 9pm and it is paraded around the monastery, which is about 6 km from the capital town. Holy Saturday is dedicated to all the last preparations before the Resurrection (12am) and Easter Sunday.
Agios Georgios
He is the patron saint of the shepherds and he is depicted as a young man on a horse, fighting a dragon. Every year on Easter Monday, there is a horse race near the lake, to honor him.
Zoodochos Pigi (Source of Life)
This beautiful church is located 7 km northwest of Skiathos Town and it was built right after they discovered the holy icon near a spring. Every year, on the first Friday after Easter, the local residents celebrate the icon’s revelation with traditional singing and dancing.
Agia Paraskevi
The Saint is celebrated on July 26th, with local traditional dances in the homonymous church. The crews are wearing impressing costumes and the ambience is really festive.
Dormition of Virgin Mary
The Dormition of Virgin Mary –as everywhere else in Greece- is celebrated on August 15th. The Monastery of Virgin Mary is where the celebration takes place, with the participation of hundreds of locals and visitors.
September 7th – Katsonia
The famous submarine Lambros Katsonis was sunk somewhere off Kastro, on September of 1943. Ever since the locals remember this day by throwing flowers in the sea, re-enacting the battleship and chanting religious hymns.
November 21st – Kounistra
Each year on November 21st the monastery of Kounistra (10 km from Skiathos Town) celebrates the Revelation of Virgin Mary. On the day prior to the celebration, the icon is transferred from the church of the Three Hierarchs to the monastery. During the parade, the locals are firing gun salutes to honor the icon. The liturgy lasts all night and early in the morning the icon is returned to the church, where it’s kept.
Bourtzi
Every year, during the summer months, the Festival of the Aegean dominates in the cultural life of the island. The festivities include theatrical shows, reenactments of ancient tragedies, concerts, exhibitions, seminars, folklore dances etc. and they all take place in the summer theater located in Bourtzi.
Cycladia Tips
Tips for a pleasant stay in Skiathos
Skiathos is an idyllic island, located right across the majestic Mount Pelion. It combines cosmopolitan flair and a distinctive 19th century old charm. It’s filled with narrow little paved streets, houses with backyards, old mansions once owned by prominent ship captains, rocky steep cliffs, spectacular golden beaches, planes and pines, amazing sunsets and a rare wetland. All this create the image of a magical destination, only an hour and a half from Athens, by plane. Here are some tips about places you should check out, beyond the known attractions.
Sunset from Banana beach
Banana beach got its name from the shape of the coastline and it’s considered as one of the most beautiful in the island. It’s located about 1km from the famous Koukounaries beach, if you follow the dirty road, as instructed by the signs. Under the shadows of the tall trees there are numerous beach bars that have sun beds and hammocks in the golden sand. From there you can wait from the sun to set, behind Mount Pelion. You can also check out this breathtaking view from Mikri Banana, which is mostly a nudists’ beach.
The forest of Koukounaries (pine cones)
This is one of the two most important cones habitats in Greece. The other one is located in the national park of Schinias, in Marathon. In Skiathos, all trails magically lead towards the beaches or the salt-water Strofilia Lake, which hosts rare bird species. The ecosystem is protected by Greek legislation, as one of exceptional natural beauty and high biodiversity.
Escapes in the nearby islands
Alonissos is the base of the National Marine Park of Sporades and the least crowded of the cluster. It boasts some of the cleanest beaches in the Mediterranean and it is also home for the rare Monachus-Monachus monk seals. Hora has some lovely cafés and cozy little taverns, by the water. Don’t forget to visit Steni Vala for fresh fish. In the port of Skiathos you will find many travel agencies that can arrange for the trip.
Skiathos beach tour
Skiathos has more than 60 beaches. These can either be visited by car –most of them- or by boat. Megali Ammos, Vasilias, Achladies can be accessed by bus, car, scooter or boat. Tzaneria, Kanapitsa, Vromolimnos, Kolios, Agia Paraskevi and Troulos have amazing views to nearby uninhabited islands. Maratha, Koukounaries –famous hot spot-, Banana and Mikri Banana, as well as Agia Eleni are next in line with sparkling emerald waters and surprising happenings by night. Ask the locals about Kryfi Ammoudia (Hidden Sandy Beach). It’s located about 11 km from Skiathos Town and it’s accessed by a dangerous, steep trail. Hidden treasure, if you ask me!
Caiques – Island tour
Take the caiques –traditional boats- from the main port towards the northern part of the island, weather permitted. You will see many isolated beaches, coves, caves and steep cliffs. Some captains visit the Blue Cave and then the Dark Cave. Take advantage! It sounds scary, but once your eyes get used to the darkness, the view is just spectacular. Don’t forget to visit the beach of Lalaria. The landscape is wild, almost primitive and it will leave you speechless Ask to be shown the infamous Cave of Fonissa (murderess) from the homonymous book of the famous Greek writer, Alexandros Papadiamantis. They say that the heroine of the book was hiding there and, according to the legend, since then, when the sun goes down the “snakes” come out. The “snakes” are notoriously high waves. Remember that after sunset there are no itineraries between Lalaria and Skiathos Town.
Also by caique, you can visit all the nearby uninhabited islets. Megali Tsougkria is a picturesque, dreamy little islet with an unspoiled white sand beach, just across from Kanapitsa.
Food, drinks and entertainment
The majority of the stores, galleries, bars, restaurants and taverns are located on or near the main road of Skiathos Town, on Papadiamantis Street. For delicious meals try Asprolithos, Karnagio and Mesogeia. If you are up for tsipouro, try the famous Tsaprouni, by the beach.
Shops & Galleries
Skiathos Stores
There are many stores (souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, leather) and boutiques in Skiathos Town, but the Galleries in particular are really impressive. Most of the stores are located on Papadiamanti Street.
Find below a list of the most notable shops and galleries on Skiathos.
Varsakis Gallery
A gallery of handmade jewelries, embroideries, ceramics, wooden and bronze objects from all over Greece and various antique objects, such as carpets, relics, textiles and icons.
Skiathos Town, Tel: +30 24270 22255
Creations Art Gallery
Handmade paintings for the owner and artist Kostas Katzioannou representing everyday life on the island. Here are also hosted some beautiful sculptures and ceramics and objects of bronze, glass and wood by Skiathonians and other Greek artists.