Green slopes, blue-green waters, golden sands, cosmopolitan air. Skiathos, the jewel of the Sporades attracts more and more visitors every summer.
Its beautiful landscape is highlighted in the best possible way through the history of the island and the hospitality of the people. It is also famous for its nightlife which ranks it among the top destinations for young people.
What to see in Skiathos
The Country of Skiathos
The country is known for its rich culture and cultural elements that dominate even a small island like Skiathos. The points worth your visit can be divided into cultural and natural attractions that express the unique character of the island, combining natural beauty with culture.
The most important attractions of the city are:
The castle
The place where the castle is built is literally breathtaking. It was built at the time when Skiathos was hit by pirates and the inhabitants tried in every way to save their property and themselves. Although life inside the castle was difficult, this in no way prevented the inhabitants from continuing their lives and traditions. They built churches, monasteries and even a mosque, the remains of which you will be able to spot when you first visit the island.
Burji
You will find it on a small peninsula that divides the island into its eastern and western parts while it was built by two Venetian brothers who were benefactors of the island and in the past it also functioned as a primary school. Nowadays it is an art space with an open theater nearby.
The house of Papadiamantis
This is the house of the Greek writer, where he grew up and died. Papadiamantis was a respected public figure of the island who contributed significantly to the local culture through his short stories, although he himself lived a humble life. The house nowadays functions as a museum and is worth visiting as the house is a monument in itself and a typical example of the island’s traditional architecture.
The old Medieval City
If you wish to spend an afternoon walking around the island, then it would be best to do so in the old town with its narrow stone streets. You will find yourself in front of the view of remaining traditional mansions, with their typical architecture that is a combination of island architecture with elements from the architecture of the villages of Pelion.
The experience of religious tourism
If you want to have a religious experience on your vacation, then don’t hesitate to visit the island’s monasteries. Closely connected with the history of Skiathos, the folk belief and the celebrations of the locals.
Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary – Evangelistria
It is located on the northernmost side of the island on the side of Agaliannos. It is an active monastery that includes a museum with musical instruments.
Panagia Kunistra
It is located on the west side of the island. The legend has it that a monk found the icon of the Virgin Mary hanging on a tree and from this position the name “Kunistra” was given to the monastery. Do not neglect your attire before entering the monasteries, as a discreet garment is essential. This translates into long skirts for women and long pants for men.
Lake Strofilia
It is a protected wetland with rich flora and fauna. It is quite rare to find wetlands on the Greek islands and for this very reason, this lake is a main feature of the special geography of the island of Skiathos.
Directly opposite Skiathos, there is a group of small islands with Tsougria being the one that gathers the most visitors. All these islets are uninhabited but in Tsougia there are a few snack bars on both sides of the island selling sandwiches and soft drinks. There are daily tours from Skiathos town and many visitors prefer these islets for a good swim in the turquoise waters and idyllic scenery. If you find yourself on the islet with your own boat, be especially careful of the rocks near the shore, as they are not visible when the sea is rough.
Megali Ammos beach
The nearest beach of Skiathos is that of Megali Ammos. Whether you’re traveling with your family or in a group with young people, you’ll love it as it’s within walking distance of the city and you won’t have to waste money or time commuting. At the same time, if you love water sports, here you will find the most organized marine schools that you will also find in other places such as Koukounaries, Banana, Troulos, Vromolimnos and Agia Paraskevi.
