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Island in the Northern Sporades, Greece
Photo: Harout Arabian from Bourj Hammoud, Lebanon, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Skiathos (Greek: Σκιάθος, Skiáthos) is the entry point and main island of the Sporades Islands. Although it is neither the biggest nor the most attractive of the Sporades islands, because it is the first port of call for most ferries and possesses the sole airport, most tourists don't venture beyond Skiathos. For most, why would they want to? There are great beaches, good accommodation on offer, and decent public transport. In season, the 6,000 or so natives are vastly outnumbered by tourists from around the world.
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Alexandros Papadiamantis (1851-1911) is one of the greatest ever Greek authors. He wrote over 100 novels mostly based on island life. His house has been turned into a museum.
Site of the medieval center of the island. Abandoned in the 19th century (1829). There are well maintained three churches and a house, the other buildings are dilapidated.
Ιερά Μονή Ευαγγελίστριας, also known as Monastery of the Annunciation, Ιερά Μονή Ευαγγελισμού της Θεοτόκου
A monastery dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary which sits on a hillside. Although some buildings are ruined, the church and accommodation buildings have been restored. The monastery has important historical significance relating to the Greek War of Independence. Visitors are welcome but should dress modestly and be respectful of any services in progress as the monastery remains a place of Greek Orthodox religious worship. August 15 is the major feast day of the monastery.
Covered with umbrella pines is the most famous beach on the island.
Beach only accessible by daily boats, crystal clear water and large stones on shore
Next to Koukounaries is the beach for young people .
Next to Big Banana
Large and quiet undeveloped beach.
Seafood.
Greek food (albeit not typical tourist fare) in a lovely courtyard setting. Off the beaten track, so fewer tourists and more Greeks.
Italian restaurant, with wood-fire oven.
Elaias gi
Traditional Greek food, lots of nice vines, friendly staff.
Good, cheap souvlaki (Greek kebabs) near the beach. Recommended.
Club.
Club.
Club.
Aphrodite Studios
A group of 20 spacious studios for 2, 3 or 4 people.
Four-star hotel in harmony with the landscape.
4 star modern boutique hotel in the heart of Skiathos town, in a very peaceful area.
Complex of furnished studios and apartments available for rent year around.
Two villas offering island views supplied by a warm & friendly family. Offers private swimming pools with sea view, a large patio with very pleasant gardens, bbq and a private parking lot.
Two villas.
Rustic holiday flats. Simple and cheap accommodation on top of a hill which means there's more of a breeze, and fewer mosquitoes - the downside is the steep walk required to get up there! 10 min from the beach, next to bus stop 19. Kostas, the owner, is helpful and friendly.
By taxi
Taxis are easy to get from the port to anywhere on the island.
By car or motorbike
It is not worth the hassle to bring your own car to the island, although it is in theory possible. You can rent a car or a motor scooter. Asphalt roads run across the south of the island.
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Skiathos · Regional · JSI
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