Top 7 Things to Do in Skiathos, Greece: Beaches, Views, and Island Vibes
Tucked into the northwestern Aegean Sea, Skiathos is a small island with a lot of character. It’s part of the Sporades group, known for pine-covered hills, turquoise waters, and that classic Greek mix of easy living and understated charm. Despite being just 12 kilometers long, Skiathos packs in some of the best beaches in Greece, a lively main town, and enough history to balance out the beach bars.
This guide follows a trip through Skiathos based on a 5-hour island exploration—covering everything from the famous Lalaria Beach to the old town fortress of Kastro and the peaceful Evangelistria Monastery. Whether you’re coming for a weekend or staying a week, here’s how to make the most of it.
1. Koukounaries Beach
Start with the beach everyone talks about. Koukounaries, on the island’s southwestern coast, is often called one of the best beaches in Greece. Its name comes from the pine trees (koukounaries in Greek) that fringe the golden sand, giving it a natural shade and a fresh, resin-scented breeze. The water is shallow, clear, and calm—perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.
You’ll find plenty of sunbeds and beach bars, but it’s not overdeveloped. Prices for drinks and food are moderate—expect €7–14 for a main dish and around €4 for a glass of wine.
For a quieter experience, go early in the morning before the crowds and boats arrive.
2. Skiathos Town
Skiathos Town is the island’s hub—where cobbled alleys twist past whitewashed houses, and the harbor fills with yachts, fishing boats, and ferry connections to Skopelos, Alonnisos, and Volos. It’s also where you’ll find some of the island’s best restaurants, bars, and shopping.
A short 5-minute taxi ride (about €10) from the airport drops you right in the center. The town’s compact size makes it walkable, and the vibe changes throughout the day: lazy breakfasts by the harbor in the morning, boutique shopping in the afternoon, and cocktails after sunset.
3. Koziakas Grill House and Skiathos Dining
No visit is complete without a proper Greek meal. Koziakas Grill House, located in Skiathos Town, is a local favorite for grilled meats, fresh salads, and generous portions. Order souvlaki or lamb chops, pair them with a carafe of house wine, and linger over the meal like a local.
Dining out in Skiathos is affordable. A main dish usually costs between €7 and €14, and a glass of wine runs €3–6. Seafood lovers should also look for seaside tavernas around the old port or Achladies Beach.
4. Cocktails by the Sea
When the sun sets, Skiathos Town transforms into a lively evening scene. Bars line the waterfront, offering cocktails with a view of the marina and twinkling lights reflecting on the water. It’s relaxed, stylish, and unpretentious.
Popular choices include fresh fruit daiquiris, Greek wines, or a classic mojito. Most bars stay open until late, with music that never overpowers the sea breeze.
5. Boat Tour to Lalaria Beach and Kastro
One of the best ways to see Skiathos is by boat. Several companies run half-day or full-day cruises around the island. A recommended option is the Lalaria–Kastro Cruise by Skiathos Cruises, which departs around 10 a.m. and lasts about five hours.
Lalaria Beach, accessible only by sea, is the island’s showstopper. Steep white cliffs drop into piercing blue water, and smooth white pebbles cover the shore. There are no facilities here—bring water and sunscreen—but the natural beauty is unmatched.
After Lalaria, most cruises continue to Kastro, the island’s medieval fortress. Perched on a rocky cliff at the northern tip, it offers panoramic views and a look at Skiathos’ more rugged side. Exploring the ruins and small churches feels like stepping back in time.
6. Evangelistria Monastery
High in the hills above the town sits Evangelistria Monastery, a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine forests. Founded in the 18th century, it played a key role in Greece’s fight for independence, serving as a refuge and meeting point for revolutionaries.
Today, it’s known for its traditional architecture, tranquil courtyards, and views over the Aegean. The monks still produce local wine and tsipouro (a strong Greek spirit), which visitors can buy directly from the monastery’s small shop.
7. Plane Spotting
Skiathos International Airport (JSI) might be small, but it’s famous among aviation enthusiasts. The runway sits just meters from the main road, making it one of the best plane spotting locations in Europe. Visitors often gather near the perimeter fence to watch planes land and take off—just be ready for a blast of jet wash.
Airlines serving the island include EasyJet, Ryanair, TUI, Wizz Air, Aegean, and SAS, connecting Skiathos with cities across Europe.
Getting There and Around
The airport is only five minutes from Skiathos Town by taxi, costing around €10. Ferries from Volos, Skopelos, and Alonnisos arrive at the central port, so combining islands is easy. Local buses connect major beaches, and scooters or ATVs are popular for exploring off the main routes.
Skiathos might be small, but it offers a mix of everything Greece does best—crystal beaches, fresh food, history, and a laid-back pace. Whether you’re here for a few days or a week, the island delivers that balance of relaxation and adventure that keeps travelers coming back.
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