Skiathos holidays

Deals from £470 per person

Holidays to Skiathos combine teal-tinted waters with a vibrant cosmopolitan nightlife. It's the greenest island in the Sporades archipelago, sporting over 60 stunning beaches along a sun-drenched coastline. Soft, golden sands stretch back from the shallow shores before lush-scented pine forests, and aromatic olive groves take over the landscape. Skiathos is also an ideal destination for families, with its laid-back atmosphere and calm shores.

Things to do

The island is ideal for couples, groups of friends, and fashion-conscious clubbers who want to be seen on the scene. However, there's plenty to do for those looking to experience the quieter side of Greece. You can spend a day sightseeing in the sleepy villages of Troulos, wander through the cobbled streets of Skiathos Town or hike the walking trails at Koukounaries forest. Wherever you go, Skiathos holidays offer picture-perfect views around every corner.

Mamma Mia!

Skiathos holidays are incomplete without a trip to the old town and port, the most popular attractions across the Sporades Islands. The town's authentic way of life inspired the movie, Mamma Mia. For a brilliant day out, hop aboard one of the themed Skiathos Sailing Trips from the Old Port to explore neighbouring Skopelos. You'll visit the film's most iconic locations where those classic anthems were filmed.

Shopping

Wander through the sugar-cube streets of Skiathos Town and discover a wealth of designer shops, restaurants, and bars. A hit with celebrities, the cosmopolitan centre is fronted with two yacht harbours, gourmet eateries and classy boutiques. For bargain-hunting, turn down the narrow roads off Papadiamantis Street. Order your travel money before you go, and you can treat yourself to some traditional pottery and embroidery from its small independent shops.

Nightlife

For a lively night, head to Skiathos Town and grab a drink along Bar Street, the best hangout for live music. Then make your way on the disco strip, running east along the coast. Here you'll find plenty of clubs open until the early hours. Stroll into the trendy cocktail lounges on the seafront for a more laid-back vibe. Another glorious spot for cocktails and music is La Bussola Bar in Koukounaries. You can watch the latest sporting events on the screens, too.

History & Culture

Skiathos has a fascinating medieval past, with impressive religious sites dotted throughout the island. Explore sacred Skiathos with a trip to the Church of Three Hierarchs, the Church of the Archangel and the Church of the Virgin Mary. The Skiathos Castle is also a must-see and home to the theatre, with cultural events held throughout the year.

Family Fun

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, you'll find a wealth of things to do on your family holiday to Skiathos. Pop on a water taxi from Koukounaries beach to Old Port and explore the pebbled streets of Skiathos Town together. Pavement cafes and boutiques line the narrow alleyways. You can also enjoy kid-friendly scuba diving, or watch a film at the open-air cinema, Akkiton.

Hiking

The island is just under 7 miles long, with many Walking Trails starting from the ring road around Skiathos Town. With 26 signposted routes, totalling 200 km, it’s a hiker's paradise. Trek through shady forests with medicinal herbs, babbling brooks and historical sites.

Places to stay

There is so much to love about this island wherever you choose to stay. With its laid-back lifestyle, unspoiled beaches and spectacular landscapes, you will find your own slice of Greek paradise here.

Achladies

A 10-minute drive outside the island capital Skiathos Town, the little resort of Achladies packs a real punch for its southern coast location. The resort is the perfect choice for families looking for a quiet spot outside the hustle and bustle of the capital while still being within easy reach of its attractions.

Troulos

To venture even further into Skiathos' lush countryside, choose Troulos. Located in the southwest, in rolling fruit groves and forest, it's the best place for couples and families seeking some peace. It's also only a 30-minute bus ride to the magnificent Monastery of Evangelistria, where the first Greek flag was raised in 1807. As well as scenic trails and cultural hotspots, you're only a 19-minute drive to Skiathos Town, with its swanky cocktails bars and quirky boutiques.

Koukounaries

Koukounaries is famous for its beach. The coast runs between fragrant pine trees and the Aegean Sea's shallow shore, a golden arc of spotless white sand. It's a popular spot with plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Book a tour bus or one of the boat trips to the Castle of Skiathos. The medieval fortification is perched on a rocky cliff, offering the most spectacular panoramic views.

Beaches to visit

The many beautiful beaches scattered across the island make holidays to Skiathos even more memorable. From stretches of soft, golden sand to pebble-strewn shallow bays, they are perfect for swimming. And while some famously deliver a lively atmosphere, you’ll find many spaces to relax and recharge in total tranquillity.

Koukounaries Beach

An excellent spot for nature lovers, Koukounaries Beach, backs onto the lush green Mandraki Pine Forest. This gently curving arc of powder-soft sand, lined with rows of cypress and eucalyptus trees swaying softly in the breeze. One of the most popular hotspots on the island, you can hop aboard water taxis or take a dip in the azure waters. You can also grab a bite at one of the wooden beach bars and tavernas.

Big Banana Beach

Sheltered by a mass of rocky hills, Big Banana Beach takes its name from its crescent shape. It's the most popular spot on the west coast and a favourite among sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. Away from the shore, you'll find pine forests and wildlife reserves. It also gets sun later in the day, so it's the ideal spot for sunsets.

Hidden Beach

Skiathos has some of the most impressive beaches across all the Greek islands. Hidden Beach, aka Krifi Ammos, is the most secluded. This wild bay has a 200m stretch of soft sand and luscious hills sheltering it from the world. Kick back, relax, and forget your troubles as you watch the waves lapping gently against the smooth ivory-white shoreline. There's also a tiny tavern in case you get a bit hungry.

Lalaria Beach

Lalaria Beach made Skiathos famous for its iconic arch and blue caves, only reachable by boat. Totally unspoilt, you won't find any shops, bars or cafes here, so bring a bottle of water with you! Cruise around the island before taking a dip amongst the string of secret sea grottos that line the cliff face. You can also dry off with a sunbathe on the unique white pebble beach.

Peaceful Achladies Bay

One of our favourite places to visit in Skiathos is sleepy Achladies Bay. Set along the east coast, it's surrounded by lush green countryside. The old fishing town has kept its natural charm, making it a peaceful escape.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Koukounaries | Troulos

Map of Skiathos

10-27 ℃

If you’re looking to make the most of the glorious Mediterranean sunshine, book your Skiathos holidays between June and August, when the temperatures are at their highest.

View live forecast

Approximately four hours.

Flights from the UK land at Skiathos International Airport.

Types of holidays in Skiathos

Skiathos is best for...

Beach lovers: When you just need a fly and flop - Skiathos is a dream! There are plenty of secluded bays off the beaten track, where you can while away the hours in total tranquillity. Turn up the tempo with a beach party on Big Banana Beach, where the tunes will be blasting ‘til dawn.

Nature lovers: From scuba dives to nature reserves and some of the most spectacular scenery in Greece, nature lovers will find plenty to see and do. Even Skiathos Town is set within uniquely wild surroundings.

Families: Kids will love the family-friendly beaches and jumping in a water taxi for an adventure at sea. You can easily spend a whole day wandering the pebbled streets of Skiathos Old Town.

Fast facts for Skiathos

Language: The language spoken is Greek. However, most of the locals have a good command of English, but will certainly appreciate your efforts, no matter how bad! So pack a phrase book or check out our handy app of simple phrases.

Currency: You’ll need to change-up your pounds and pence for Euros, before zipping off on your holidays to Skiathos.

Local time: Skiathos is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Skiathos Airport. Transfer time to Troulos is 35 minutes.

Flight time from UK: The flight time to Skiathos is 4 hours.

Tourist Information: Further tourist information can be found on the official website for tourism in Skiathos.

Visa / Health: Before you travel, check the latest advice from The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Getting around Skiathos

By water taxi: Water taxis are a great way of seeing the coastline and a fun way to get to the best beaches. You’ll find the majority of water taxis at the harbour in Skiathos town, running to beaches, such as Kuokounaries, Kanapitsa, Tzaneriá and Achladias.

By car: There are plenty of car-hire offices in the town, giving you the opportunity to see the destination at your own pace. There’s only one paved road travelling along the south coast; most of the others tend to be dirt tracks or gravel roads. Navigation is easy, but do remember that Greeks drive on the right and overtake on the left!

By taxi: For transport from the airport, or back to your hotel after a night out, the easiest way is by taxi. There are taxi ranks at the harbours on the waterfront, but it’s a good idea to check the price before you hop in. Taxis are easy to spot, as licensed cabs are silver in colour, with an on/off-duty light on the roof.

Events in Skiathos

Summer feast: In late July, the nearby town of Agia Paraskevi celebrates its patron saint of the same name. The town comes alive with live music, Greek dancing and different stands, and the locals light candles in their church in commemoration.

Carnival: If you’ve booked your holiday for February, you might be lucky enough to catch the Carnival. Carnival is big in Greece and, across the island, you can expect flamboyant floats, elaborate costumes, sizzling street food, live music, and fantastic fireworks! The carnival is the result of ten days’ worth of preparation and fasting, so don’t expect too much sleep on the night of the parade!

Skiathos safety and security

Do I need a passport?

British citizens must carry a full UK passport when travelling to Skiathos. Your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter and be valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. Before travelling, visit The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office for advice.

Should I get travel health insurance?

Wherever you travel, it’s best to take out comprehensive travel health insurance. If you were to become ill or have an accident on holiday, travel insurance will assist towards the cost of things like treatment or even returning to the UK. We recommend that you check your policy to see what’s included in your cover.

For up-to-date advice on travelling to Skiathos, please visit the FCDO website

Skiathos weather

Temperature: Mid to high 20s (°C) for most of summer, peaking in the 30s (°C) around July.

Best time to visit: Sun-worshippers should book their break between June and August, to make the most of the beaches and the nightlife scene.

The weather in Skiathos is gets hots in the Summer, with the mercury beginning to climb in May. The heat usually peaks in July and August, before cooling down in September. For cooler temperatures, but with plenty of sun, book your holidays to Skiathos in the spring.

Weather in Skiathos for