Guidebook for Skiathos
Food Scene
Excellent choice of local food
Great atmosphere
Reasonably priced
Sunday lunch time is family time
17 moradores locais recomendam
Bakaliko
3 PolytexniouExcellent choice of local food
Great atmosphere
Reasonably priced
Sunday lunch time is family time
Possibly the best coffee, cappuccino, frappe, pastries and muffins in Skiathos. They have just added Greek Handmade Organic Ice cream and Sorbet to their menu - delicious flavours (not your ordinary) from Mastica, Fig Sorbet, Pear Sorbet and many others. Friendly and attentive staff. Comfortable seating on the pebbled stone pathway ... watch the people as they pass by - free wifi. A definite coffee stop !
Foodie Cafe opens early in the morning and closes late at night ideal for any time of day or night
Foodie Café
31 PapadiamantiPossibly the best coffee, cappuccino, frappe, pastries and muffins in Skiathos. They have just added Greek Handmade Organic Ice cream and Sorbet to their menu - delicious flavours (not your ordinary) from Mastica, Fig Sorbet, Pear Sorbet and many others. Friendly and attentive staff. Comfortable seating on the pebbled stone pathway ... watch the people as they pass by - free wifi. A definite coffee stop !
Foodie Cafe opens early in the morning and closes late at night ideal for any time of day or night
This vibey, famous Taverna - a must visit one at best - is situated under the Mulberry Tree in the centre of Skiathos Town down a pebbled walkway. They offer live Greek music to keep the happy ambiance while guests tuck into their authentic cuisine.
Alexandros
This vibey, famous Taverna - a must visit one at best - is situated under the Mulberry Tree in the centre of Skiathos Town down a pebbled walkway. They offer live Greek music to keep the happy ambiance while guests tuck into their authentic cuisine.
Sightseeing
A little bit of history, stunning old ruins, beautiful scenery - high up above the Kastro beach !
In the 14th century Skiathos island was plagued by regular pirate attacks from the notorious Saracens and others. So the island folk uprooted their lives in their little harbour town, took what they could carry and sought refuge on a cliff-top. They fortified themselves in a part natural, part manmade fortress on the northernmost part of Skiathos Island. The fortress became known as Kastro.
Today, there’s something spectacularly remote and dramatic about the site. Of its four sides, three with their sheer drop overlook the sea. The only access to the fourth side, which had high battlements in its day, was by means of a wooden drawbridge, which has since been replaced by a stone stairway. An ideal lookout point, enemies could be spotted from a distance, the alarm would be sounded, and the drawbridge would be raised. Any pillagers who reached the steep climb to the iron entrance gate would have had hot oil poured over them. Kastro was virtually impenetrable.
With limited space, there were some 300 small, dark houses, built close together. The foundation remnants of some can still be seen today. There were 20 small churches, of which two survive along with parts of the fortress wall, an old cannon and the original iron-gate entrance. The cemetery was outside the fortress walls. Also inside, large water tanks were always well stocked. In the event of a siege the inhabitants could survive and even thrive inside the Kastro for extended periods of time.
Little pathways meander through what must have been a fairly insulated life. People lived here for hundreds of years. At one time occupied by the Venetians and then the Turks, Kastro was abandoned in 1830 after the War of Independence. Turkish occupation is a sore point for most Greeks and one cannot help but notice the Greek flag prominently and proudly displayed at Kastro’s highest lookout point.
The most commanding visual approach is by sea. Kastro looms over the cliff top, which rises from the ocean to meet it. Daily boat excursions stop at the beach below. Do take a hat and don’t attempt it if you’re expecting a short, leisurely stroll to the top. It’s a fairly steep walk up stairs. While largely overgrown, Kastro’s atmosphere is incredible, particularly if you have the space all to yourself. To avoid the crowds and the heat, you might prefer to take the inland approach by car, quad bike or scooter in the early morning or late afternoon. Regardless, Kastro is, undeniably, a must see experience for the whole family
13 moradores locais recomendam
Κάστρο
A little bit of history, stunning old ruins, beautiful scenery - high up above the Kastro beach !
In the 14th century Skiathos island was plagued by regular pirate attacks from the notorious Saracens and others. So the island folk uprooted their lives in their little harbour town, took what they could carry and sought refuge on a cliff-top. They fortified themselves in a part natural, part manmade fortress on the northernmost part of Skiathos Island. The fortress became known as Kastro.
Today, there’s something spectacularly remote and dramatic about the site. Of its four sides, three with their sheer drop overlook the sea. The only access to the fourth side, which had high battlements in its day, was by means of a wooden drawbridge, which has since been replaced by a stone stairway. An ideal lookout point, enemies could be spotted from a distance, the alarm would be sounded, and the drawbridge would be raised. Any pillagers who reached the steep climb to the iron entrance gate would have had hot oil poured over them. Kastro was virtually impenetrable.
With limited space, there were some 300 small, dark houses, built close together. The foundation remnants of some can still be seen today. There were 20 small churches, of which two survive along with parts of the fortress wall, an old cannon and the original iron-gate entrance. The cemetery was outside the fortress walls. Also inside, large water tanks were always well stocked. In the event of a siege the inhabitants could survive and even thrive inside the Kastro for extended periods of time.
Little pathways meander through what must have been a fairly insulated life. People lived here for hundreds of years. At one time occupied by the Venetians and then the Turks, Kastro was abandoned in 1830 after the War of Independence. Turkish occupation is a sore point for most Greeks and one cannot help but notice the Greek flag prominently and proudly displayed at Kastro’s highest lookout point.
The most commanding visual approach is by sea. Kastro looms over the cliff top, which rises from the ocean to meet it. Daily boat excursions stop at the beach below. Do take a hat and don’t attempt it if you’re expecting a short, leisurely stroll to the top. It’s a fairly steep walk up stairs. While largely overgrown, Kastro’s atmosphere is incredible, particularly if you have the space all to yourself. To avoid the crowds and the heat, you might prefer to take the inland approach by car, quad bike or scooter in the early morning or late afternoon. Regardless, Kastro is, undeniably, a must see experience for the whole family
Parks & Nature
Skiathos is a forested island with many marked hiking trails. One of my favourites - the Magic Forest Trail -
The most natural area on the island of Skiathos reveals itself along hike route no 11, close to the monastery of Kechria. Here time stands still. The ruins of four (4) old water mills which date back as far as 1000 A.D. can be seen as one walks through this indescribable beautiful area. A babbling brook with little waterfalls, horsetails and tall tree ferns, singing birds, a variety of spectacular dragonflies and butterflies make this ‘just paradise’… grasshoppers clicking in the air… frogs camouflaged against the cracked and lined bark of an old decayed log, long softened by rot and spotted with moss, lizards, vipers and ladybugs all make up the charm of this beautiful area.
As we walked through the forest and along the paths that lead to areas of intrigue, my mind returns to the stories of Enid Blyton “The Enchanted Wood and The Magic Faraway Tree” . It conjures up all kinds of ‘thoughts’ – this vegetation consists of trees that talk and plants that move, somewhere in the depths of the forest. We consider the lichen growth on low-lying boulders and the moss encircling the trunks of trees and elsewhere along the way. It is a cool restful shady world with light filtering lazily through the tree tops that meet high overhead and shut out the direct sunlight.
We (One) gets the feeling that you are being watched by elves and fairies as it seems too magical and surreal. It is the enchanted forest, a magical place, an idyllic space. As you wander along the footpaths your will be influenced by the enchanting scent of the various flowers and medicinal herbs to be found along the way. Nature teaches lessons as we find this out in this serene space where ‘Mother Nature’ has her store…. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) a natural anti inflammatory; Camomile (Marticaria chamomilla) is known as the ‘star’ herb as it aids gastric problems amongst many others; St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is used as a treatment for depression. There are many others, like Comfrey, Mullein, oregano, dandelion, fennel, whitethorn … these are just to name a few…. Nature is wonderful. And as the daylight began to drain away and the green meadow bathed in the humid light of a sinking sun, it was time to retrace our footsteps and depart from the mysterious pathways of the Magic Forest with one desire - to return soon.
Kechria
Skiathos is a forested island with many marked hiking trails. One of my favourites - the Magic Forest Trail -
The most natural area on the island of Skiathos reveals itself along hike route no 11, close to the monastery of Kechria. Here time stands still. The ruins of four (4) old water mills which date back as far as 1000 A.D. can be seen as one walks through this indescribable beautiful area. A babbling brook with little waterfalls, horsetails and tall tree ferns, singing birds, a variety of spectacular dragonflies and butterflies make this ‘just paradise’… grasshoppers clicking in the air… frogs camouflaged against the cracked and lined bark of an old decayed log, long softened by rot and spotted with moss, lizards, vipers and ladybugs all make up the charm of this beautiful area.
As we walked through the forest and along the paths that lead to areas of intrigue, my mind returns to the stories of Enid Blyton “The Enchanted Wood and The Magic Faraway Tree” . It conjures up all kinds of ‘thoughts’ – this vegetation consists of trees that talk and plants that move, somewhere in the depths of the forest. We consider the lichen growth on low-lying boulders and the moss encircling the trunks of trees and elsewhere along the way. It is a cool restful shady world with light filtering lazily through the tree tops that meet high overhead and shut out the direct sunlight.
We (One) gets the feeling that you are being watched by elves and fairies as it seems too magical and surreal. It is the enchanted forest, a magical place, an idyllic space. As you wander along the footpaths your will be influenced by the enchanting scent of the various flowers and medicinal herbs to be found along the way. Nature teaches lessons as we find this out in this serene space where ‘Mother Nature’ has her store…. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) a natural anti inflammatory; Camomile (Marticaria chamomilla) is known as the ‘star’ herb as it aids gastric problems amongst many others; St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is used as a treatment for depression. There are many others, like Comfrey, Mullein, oregano, dandelion, fennel, whitethorn … these are just to name a few…. Nature is wonderful. And as the daylight began to drain away and the green meadow bathed in the humid light of a sinking sun, it was time to retrace our footsteps and depart from the mysterious pathways of the Magic Forest with one desire - to return soon.
Getting Around
Euronet Car Rental situated in Skiathos Town across from the Ferry Port offers good rates to my guests for car rental, scooter rental, ATV rental - contact me to arrange your vehicle rental ahead of your arrival. They will deliver your car to the airport on arrival or if arriving by ferry - their office is a short walk away.
10 moradores locais recomendam
Skiathos
Euronet Car Rental situated in Skiathos Town across from the Ferry Port offers good rates to my guests for car rental, scooter rental, ATV rental - contact me to arrange your vehicle rental ahead of your arrival. They will deliver your car to the airport on arrival or if arriving by ferry - their office is a short walk away.
Skiathos island has a public bus service which runs along the length of the island from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries Beach. In season the bus runs every 20 minutes and stops at all the major beaches along the way. Each beach has a numbered bus stop so if you look at the map of Skiathos you will see which bus stop corresponds to the beach you want to go to.
Bus station
Skiathos island has a public bus service which runs along the length of the island from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries Beach. In season the bus runs every 20 minutes and stops at all the major beaches along the way. Each beach has a numbered bus stop so if you look at the map of Skiathos you will see which bus stop corresponds to the beach you want to go to.
An Easy Island Hop to Neighbouring islands like Skopelos and Alonissos shows how conveniently situated Skiathos is to be able to explore other islands.
Various methods of visiting neighbouring islands are by ferry, tourist boat, charter boat or yacht.
If you take the ferry you are practically on your own - I can assist you with maps and information; if you go by tourist boat the boat owner or assistant will assist you - I suggest that you take the Ag. Nikolas when Victoria Sandels is your guide as she makes the trip very interesting. She tells stories of Greek Mythology, things of interest etc. She speaks English, Swedish, French, Italian and other languages too. On Skopelos you can either wonder around n your own or join her on a tour of the town with some leisure time on your own to do some shopping or eating. If you would like to travel to the island with her, I can arrange for tickets ahead of your arrival too. Taking the Arco Yacht captained by George (and his lovely wife Dina) is another interesting and varied way to see the islands. He too has interesting tales and information to share with his "friends", you his guest. Booking with the Arco can also be arranged.
You can also hire your own boat, from a couple of the beach marinas. Boat size and where you’re able to go is dependent on the type of skipper’s license you have. If you don’t have a skipper’s license you can still hire a zesty little boat, scoot up and down the eastern side of the island, and do some small island hopping. These boats are for rent at Megali Ammos Watersport Centre. I can supply information for booking with them. I suggest you only consider this option when you are already on Skiathos and the weather has been confirmed
Cape Kanapitsa Hotel & Suites
An Easy Island Hop to Neighbouring islands like Skopelos and Alonissos shows how conveniently situated Skiathos is to be able to explore other islands.
Various methods of visiting neighbouring islands are by ferry, tourist boat, charter boat or yacht.
If you take the ferry you are practically on your own - I can assist you with maps and information; if you go by tourist boat the boat owner or assistant will assist you - I suggest that you take the Ag. Nikolas when Victoria Sandels is your guide as she makes the trip very interesting. She tells stories of Greek Mythology, things of interest etc. She speaks English, Swedish, French, Italian and other languages too. On Skopelos you can either wonder around n your own or join her on a tour of the town with some leisure time on your own to do some shopping or eating. If you would like to travel to the island with her, I can arrange for tickets ahead of your arrival too. Taking the Arco Yacht captained by George (and his lovely wife Dina) is another interesting and varied way to see the islands. He too has interesting tales and information to share with his "friends", you his guest. Booking with the Arco can also be arranged.
You can also hire your own boat, from a couple of the beach marinas. Boat size and where you’re able to go is dependent on the type of skipper’s license you have. If you don’t have a skipper’s license you can still hire a zesty little boat, scoot up and down the eastern side of the island, and do some small island hopping. These boats are for rent at Megali Ammos Watersport Centre. I can supply information for booking with them. I suggest you only consider this option when you are already on Skiathos and the weather has been confirmed
Mountain biking the length and breadth of Skiathos? Bad Boy Biking rentals hire not only bikes but all essentials like helmets and gloves
Bad Boy Bike
PapadiamantiMountain biking the length and breadth of Skiathos? Bad Boy Biking rentals hire not only bikes but all essentials like helmets and gloves
There’s no shortage of on road taxis. Most first time visitors arrange an airport transfer in advance but, in all likelihood, you’ll find a host of taxi drivers as you exit the airport terminus. Do agree on a fare before you set off and don’t be afraid to share cabs if you’re on a limited budget. Your taxi driver will ask your permission or if you’re joining another traveller/travel group, will ask theirs. Water taxis generally leave the harbour area (Skiathos Town) every half hour or so en route to various popular island beaches and hotels
26 moradores locais recomendam
Διεθνής Αερολιμένας Σκιάθου "Αλέξανδρος Παπαδιαμάντης"
There’s no shortage of on road taxis. Most first time visitors arrange an airport transfer in advance but, in all likelihood, you’ll find a host of taxi drivers as you exit the airport terminus. Do agree on a fare before you set off and don’t be afraid to share cabs if you’re on a limited budget. Your taxi driver will ask your permission or if you’re joining another traveller/travel group, will ask theirs. Water taxis generally leave the harbour area (Skiathos Town) every half hour or so en route to various popular island beaches and hotels
Shopping
Authentic, Modern Greek Designer clothing, ''out of the ordinary'' jewellery, scarves and swim wear.... Handbags, shoes and everything awesome - this is the store for you. The goods are pricey but you won't get this merchandise anywhere else
Arkos
Authentic, Modern Greek Designer clothing, ''out of the ordinary'' jewellery, scarves and swim wear.... Handbags, shoes and everything awesome - this is the store for you. The goods are pricey but you won't get this merchandise anywhere else