Skiathos: The Cosmopolitan Greenery of the Sporades
Skiathos is an island where the forest meets the sea in perfect harmony. Known for its 60 golden beaches and its vibrant nightlife, it is the most popular of the Sporades islands. In 2026, Skiathos continues to attract a diverse crowd—from luxury yacht owners to nature lovers. As the island of Alexandros Papadiamantis, one of Greece’s greatest writers, it offers a cultural depth that balances its high-energy beach scene. Whether you are planespotting at the world-famous runway or hiking through the Mandraki forest, Skiathos is an island of endless Aegean light.
Things to know about Skiathos
Geographically, Skiathos is a small, lush island in the Northwest Aegean. It is almost entirely covered in pine forests. Historically, it played a key role in the Greek Revolution, being the site where the first modern Greek flag was designed. An ideal trip length is 5-6 days. It is famous for Lalaria beach, the Koukounaries pine forest, and its lively Chora. It is the only Sporades island with an international airport, making it the primary gateway to the chain.
Top attractions in Skiathos
Koukounaries Beach
Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Koukounaries is a vast crescent of golden sand backed by a protected pine forest and a lagoon. The water is shallow and crystal clear, and the scent of the pine trees reaching the shoreline is unforgettable.
Lalaria Beach
Only accessible by boat, Lalaria is a natural masterpiece. It features massive, smooth white pebbles and a famous natural rock arch (Trypia Petra). The water here is a deep, glowing turquoise, and the white cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop.
Skiathos Chora and Bourtzi
The main town is built around a beautiful harbor. The Bourtzi is a small, pine-clad peninsula that divides the port; it houses a cultural center and offers a peaceful place for a walk with a view of the sailboats.
The Monastery of Evangelistria
Located on a high hill surrounded by forests, this monastery is where the first Greek flag was woven and blessed in 1807. It is a site of great national importance and features a beautiful museum of ecclesiastical art and local products.
Kastro (The Medieval Capital)
On the northern tip of the island lies the ruined medieval capital, built on a sheer rock to protect residents from pirates. You can explore the old churches and the remains of the gate, offering a wild view of the open Aegean.
The House of Papadiamantis
Located in the heart of Chora, this is the former home of the famous Greek novelist. It has been converted into a museum that preserves the simple, traditional lifestyle of the 19th-century islanders, offering a quiet contrast to the busy port.
Mandraki Beach and Forest
Located on the west coast, Mandraki is a series of three beautiful bays (Elias, Agistros, and Xerxes). To reach them, you must walk through a stunning forest of Aleppo pines growing in sandy soil, a unique ecosystem in the Aegean.
The Skiathos Plane Spotting Point
One of the most famous spots in the world for aviation enthusiasts. The runway starts right next to the public road, allowing people to stand just meters away from landing jets. It is a thrilling, high-adrenaline experience unique to the island.
Banana Beach
Divided into Big and Little Banana, these beaches are the hub of the island’s youth and party scene. With fine sand and famous beach bars, it is the place to be for music, cocktails, and water sports during the sunset.
Tsougria Islet (Day Trip)
A short boat ride from the harbor, Tsougria is an uninhabited paradise with emerald water and a small, picturesque church (Agios Floros). It offers some of the best swimming in the region away from the main island’s crowds.
Island-hopping from Skiathos
Skiathos is the main hub for the Sporades. Daily ferries and high-speeds connect Skiathos to Skopelos (30-60 mins) and Alonnisos (1.5 hours). It is also connected to the mainland ports of Volos and Agios Konstantinos. Skiathos International Airport (JSI) offers direct flights to Athens and many European cities, making it the perfect starting point for a Sporades adventure.
