Skiathos is a special destination. It was the first among the islands of the Northern Sporades, discovered in the mid-1960s. It is easy to understand why - you will find more than 50 beaches, azure sea, lush greenery that grows all over the island thanks to the humid climate. According to one of the versions, the island got its name from Sophocles who mentioned that the island is located in the shadow of Mount Athos (skia and athos - “shadow of Mount Athos”).
In addition to beautiful beaches and a variety of water sports, you can find a lot of interesting attractions on the island.
Here you can find a variety of entertaining attractions - antique shops, folklore museum of textiles, many historic buildings. The main cathedral of Skiathos, the Three Hierarchs Church, is located in the heart of the city. In two and a half miles from the city you will find Evangelistrias -the first Monastery of Skiathos, built by monks in the XVIII century. Kounistra Monastery is the most famous temple on the island, built in honor of the patroness of the island.
Kastro - the fortified fortress-settlement of the island of the XVI century - is located on the northern tip of Skiathos. After 1830 this place has become a part of the city. Today it looks like eerie ruins with stone steps and four churches. One of them keeps well-preserved frescoes of the XVI century.
The main city fortress of Bourtzi is located in the central harbor - it is the former main residence of the Venetians, guarding the ancient city. Among the remains of the old fortress one can find a modern library and a theater. They hold here Aegean Arts Festival every summer.
In addition to Bourtzi, do not miss the opportunity to visit the museum of the famous Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis (they have special celebration on 3-4 January and 4 March every year in his honor), who was born and raised on Skiathos. After his death, the house was declared a cultural monument of the island. The small house of the writer is built in traditional style of the local architecture and is very popular among visitors.
The most famous beach of Skiathos is Koukounaries, which was announced the third in the list of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. This is a very popular beach with golden sand, surrounded by a lush pine forest. There is a campsite on the beach, popular among young people. There are also many taverns, lively cafes and bars.
On the west side of Skiathos there is a beach called Banana, divided into 2 parts. The main part is a beautiful and very popular beach. It was considered a nudist beach before, but most people eventually moved to Little Banana beach, also known as Spartacus. The area of the main beach is the best place for windsurfing. Both beaches offer beautiful sunsets.
Those who are looking for privacy may visit the western part of the island: the beaches of Mandraki, Aselinos. In the north-eastern part of Skiathos you will find Lalaria beach with impressive white cliffs, small round stones (Lalaria means “white pebbles”), remarkably clear waters and a beautiful natural background. This wild beach can be reached by boats departing from the city's harbor.
Amazing beaches, perfect weather and the warm and cozy atmosphere awaits you on the Greek island of Skiathos. Despite the fact that Skiathos is the smallest island of the Sporades group, it is filled with unique, rich and colorful history. This charming island has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors return here again and again.