Skiathos Holidays
Visit the Beautiful Island of Skiathos!
Skiathos is a small but beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea. It is surprisingly green—the heavily forested island is popular with tourists due to its many attractions, both natural and historical.
Due to its natural beauty and strategic location, Skiathos has changed hands several times, having been conquered by several nations. Most recently, it served as the location where the first ever Greek flag was flown, in 1807.
The main attractions on the island of Skiathos are the more than 60 beautiful beaches scattered along the coastline. Unlike the rocky coasts of most other Greek islands, almost all of the beaches on Skiathos are sandy—much easier on the feet!
Most beaches feature underwater rock features, though, which are popular with snorkelers. There are big, popular beaches such as Koukounaries Beach, Krassa Beach, and Troulos Beach, but small, secluded beaches such as Aghia Eleni and Kryfi Ammoudia are also popular.
Almost every beach on the island, even the most secluded, will have a taverna, or simple, rustic Greek restaurant, offering fresh fish, salads, and other quick and delicious meals. They’re the perfect place to rest and recharge after a long day in the sun.
The island of Skiathos is more than its beaches, though. There are several beautiful and historic monasteries scattered throughout the island that are popular tourist destinations. The most famous monastery is the Evangelistra Monastery, located at the base of Skiathos’ highest peak, Karaflizanaka.
The Kounistra monastery gets its name from a miraculous ikon that appeared in the forest nearby, and it serves as the patron church of the island and town of Skiathos. It has a beautiful view and has been recently restored. The Xaralambos and Kechria monasteries are also worth a visit.
The old town and beach of Kastro are worth visiting as well, although they require a walk through the woods in order to be reached. This ruined medieval town was the center of life on Skiathos from the 1100s until about 1830. Though most of the houses and churches were destroyed, some beautiful ruins still cling to the cliff above the sea.
If you’re exhausted by swimming, lying in the sun, and climbing up to ancient monasteries, the modern town of Skiathos, which is located around the main harbour, is also a great place to see. Skiathos Town is the main and only town on the island, and its narrow streets feature great shopping and nightlife.
The harbour in Skiathos Town is actually divided into two sections: the old and new harbour. There is a small strip of forested land between the two bodies of water called the Bourtzi, which serves as the centre of town life in the summer. A building that used to house the town school is there, as well as a coffee shop and an open-air theatre. Performances run all summer.
Visit the island of Skiathos for a beautiful and relaxing Greek vacation. It has all the amenities and attractions of more famous islands without the stressful tourist crowds!