Located in the northwest Aegean Sea, Skiathos is part of the Sporades archipelago just a forty minute flight from Athens. With quiet beaches, pine trees and romantic waterfront cafes, this island is an ideal getaway for both couples and solo travelers seeking peaceful destinations. Packed with charming boutiques, cobbled streets, limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, here is the best of Skiathos for your Greek Island itinerary.
Where to Eat/Drink:
1. Anatoli Skiathos
There is nothing like arriving on an island after a long flight and then sitting down for for a traditional meal made by a grandmothers hands. Drive just 15-minutes north from the airport for authentic Greek cuisine backed by breathtaking seascape views. Family owned and operated, each dish is handmade with recipes passed down generations. Come hungry and order a variety of dishes for a complete and genuine-culinary experience.
2. The Borzoi Club
After the sun sets, meander into town for an eclectic bar-lounge experience. Situated in a hidden location off Papadiamanti Street, find yourself at the most happening night spot in Skiathos. Keep an eye out for celebrity guests; this small island restaurant-bar has been seen to host Hollywood gold.
3. No-Name
For the best Gyro in town, No-Name is a no-frills-family-operated souvlaki and gyro joint nestled in the waterfront village.
Confidently serving French fries over shaved pork, this fast-food style restaurant is both tasty and affordable. Now established for twenty five years, the owner and his sons are confident that a true Greek Gyro must be pork!
4. Diamandis Beach
Accessible by land and sea, Diamandis Beach and Restaurant takes the lead on best meal on the island. And when it’s that good, you return the next day! Getting there on foot requires a good sense of direction and a short hike, but once you find your way down to this sea-side-gem you will remember that the path less traveled is always worth it in the end.
In case one afternoon spent here wasn’t enough, simply return by boat during your private island tour. From fresh green salads, grilled prawns, baked sea bream, fried calamari and ice-cold Rose; the perfect meal does exist. Amongst a relaxed and simple atmosphere, owners Katerina, Marcos and staff served up an unforgettable experience.
Top 3 Beaches:
1. Paralia Lalaria
Spectacular aquamarine waters and smooth white rock beaches will keep you dreaming of no other beach escape than Paralia Lalaria. Unique to the island for its limestone cliffside backdrop and carved-rock archway, this tranquil beach is amongst the most impressive shore-lines in Greece.
Accessible only by boat, hire a guide or skipper your own ship for a remarkable adventure around the shores of Skiathos.
2. Mystique Beach Club
Relax beachside at Mystique Beach Club with amazing cocktails, lounge chairs and buddha-bar inspired music. Managed by a fella named Coco, his presence will have you feeling like a VIP with his gracious hospitality.
3. Mandraki Beach
The road to Mandraki is nothing short of carefree! Passing several beach access points along the way, this winding dirt road with panoramic views will have you eager to see what’s around the next corner. Follow the wooden sign to Mandraki, passing through the cool reprieve of the Allepo pine forest. Rest at the beach-side chairs or bring your own beach umbrella for a more private experience on the north side of the sand bar.
Day Trips:
1. Moni Evangelistrias
For a devotional experience, motorbike up the hill from the airport to the island’s largest monastery, Moni Evaggelistrias.
Rich with 18th-century architecture, canons, cobblestone paths and cats, you will feel both charmed and serene as you stroll through the courtyard of the Orthodox chapel.
The gift shop contains sacred amulets, incense, local soaps, wines and olive oils for purchase. If you want a blessing from the priest, kindly just ask.
2. Byzantine Castle of Skiathos
Located on the northern most part of the island, this medieval fortress once protected the island from Ottoman and Turkish invaders. Built In 1453 this Castle was under Byzantine rule for nearly one hundred years until the occupation of outside invaders. After a difficult history, the Castle was abandoned in 1830 with the establishment of the independent Greek state. Tour the grounds on foot or gaze upward at the castle walls by boat for a quick peek into the islands history.
3. Agios Alexandros
Beautiful Orthodox Church with mountain and seaside views. Nestled into the landscape this traditional Cycladic style architecture is perfect for a peaceful afternoon sunset.
4. Sea Cave
The pristine waters of Skiathos are a swimmers paradise for an effortless float and crystal clear vision below. Just off the northern point of the island under the Byzantine Castle ruins, lies a sea cave only assessable by boat.
Below this rocky archway are neon blue waters that are both mysterious and eerie. Take a plunge from your motor boat and swim within the interior cavern that tunnels to the other side. Be aware, there are stinging jellyfish here.
Diving into the caves entrance I heard the echo’s of one of my favorite movie scenes,
“I’ve got to go and see.”
“See what? There’s nothing to see, its dark and cold down there”
“When you go down to the bottom of the sea, where the water isn’t even blue anymore, where the sky is only a memory, and you float there, in the silence, I have to go and see”
“Go and see my love”
Do you know this movie? Free divers in Greece…..
Le Grand Bleu. (The Big Blue)
5. Boat Tour
For an off-land adventure, (and the best way to see the island) head to the docks and hire a boat for a half-day or full-day at sea. There are a few smaller islands off the coast of Skiathos with private beach set-ups for tourists, but stick to the shores of Skiathos for the very best beach experience.
Embracing the whole island are gentle turquoise waters, rocky enclaves and dazzling white stone shorelines. Pack your sunscreen, goggles, cherries and beer for some afternoon fun on the water before docking at Diamandis Beach for a late-lunch.
With so much to do and see on Skiathos, sometimes the best way to soak up any of the Greek islands is éfkolos trópos, the easy way. Find your beach, de-compress, nap under an umbrella, float in the cool embrace of the sea and remember; simplicity is bliss.
Yamas!
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