Skiathos, located in the western part of the Sporades archipelago, provides a quiet and peaceful environment, as well as great hiking opportunities. If you have seen the 2008 movie Mamma Mia, you can recognize several scenes here.

This article gives you an overview of the following topics:

Things to do in Skiathos: Sandy and pebbly beaches

Tourists love Skiathos mainly because of the diverse beaches; the tidier ones are located in the southern part. The most popular beach is Koukounaries, which has been chosen the most beautiful one in Greece several times. It is a nice fine sandy beach with rapidly deepening waters; families might prefer Banana Beach nearby with its shallow waters. The sandy-pebbly shore segment Xanemos makes the island very special. It can be found next to the airport, so the landing planes fly only a few metres above the beach-goers.

If you would like to enjoy a beach in peace and quiet, you should go to the northern part of the island. The beaches here are mostly stranded. You have to bring your own equipment, but you can enjoy the beach in a completely calm environment in return.

What to do in Skiathos: Sights to see

Look around in the cities of the island!

The capital of the city lies on two hills, providing a great view of the bay. You will find most bars, taverns and restaurants around the marina. Explore the central parts as well! It is also worth visiting the peninsula of Bourtzi in the eastern part of the bay. You can explore the ruins of a fort from the 13th century here.

Visit the city of Kukunaries as well! This typical Greek holiday resort is located in the southwestern part of the island. The island’s most beautiful beach lies right next to the town, offering dozens of entertainment and watersports opportunities!

Visit the medieval ruins!

You will find the medieval town of Kastro in the southeastern mountainous region of the island. You can only reach the town on a boat or on a fairly challenging hiking route. The wonderful view is one of the many reasons that makes this a must-see spot.

Enjoy a hike in the nature!

Skiathos has beautiful pines and great routes – if you like long hikes, this is your opportunity! You can also rent a quad or a mountain bike if you like.

Things to do in Skiathos: Entertainment opportunities

Watersports and diving

There are several watersports opportunities offered on the southern beaches of Skiathos. The island is very popular among divers because of the large amount of spots to be explored. There are three important diving schools here for rookies as well as more advanced divers. If you have the experience, you can even dive during the night!

The southern beaches offer great opportunities on the waterfront as well. Should you prefer a more relaxed entertainment, you can also try kayaking or canoeing. If you are an adrenaline seeker, you must try jet skiing, wakeboarding or the SUP.

Outdoor cinema

If you are a movie fan and arrive in Skiathos in the summer, we recommend that you visit the outdoor cinema! They are usually open 3 days a week, and play 2-3 movies in rotation. There are lots of mosquitoes in the evening, so bring some insect repellent!

Nightlife

In the capital, there are some bars open during the night, sometimes with world-famous DJs on set. They also organise dance parties from time to time on the local beach.

Gastronomy of Skiathos

The island has a diverse gastronomy. There are dozens of restaurants that visitors can choose from, including cheap and simple ones as well as exquisite and luxurious places. Besides the traditional Greek cuisine, you can try many other local delicacies. The most famous specialty is the cookie amygdalota, typically made with almond, often called “Greek macaroon”. Another famous dish on the island is the herb pie. You can also find locally produced wines and liqueurs in the shops.

The quiet and peaceful island of Skiathos offers countless entartainment opportunities and amazing beaches. Thanks to its location, it is an ideal starting point when exploring the Sporades.