Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Skiathos, Greece

  • Published 2022/08/17

Do you want to go on a vacation someplace with lively nightlife?

Skiathos in Greece is the destination for you.

This island boasts some of the most amazing beaches, bars, and cafes serving delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

It is known for its incredible natural aura that invites you to take a break from your busy everyday life.

With its humid climate and abundance of natural attractions, you need to choose the best time to travel.

Summers are said to be the best time to visit, and during this time, the island is filled with travelers from all over the world.

If you’re planning to head to this beautiful island on your next vacation, check out this list of the best things to do in Skiathos, Greece:

Take a Boat Ride to Lalaria Beach

Scenic sunset over Lalaria Beach

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Lalaria Beach is what Skiathos is famous for.

The sea is filled with white cliffs that enhance the beach’s beauty.

It is only accessible from the port by boat and consists of many caves worth checking out.

You can visit this beach every day during your stay, as it is close to many of the island’s prominent hotels.

Aerial view of Lalaria Beach

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The amazing Camelia Studios, Villas Zoe, and Villa Georgia are two to three kilometers from this beach.

One thing to remember if you decide to visit: There are only two boat rides to the beach, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon.

Therefore, plan your time and travel accordingly.

Climb Your Way to the Church of Agios Nikolaos

Exterior of Agios Nikolaos Church

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The Church of Agios Nikolaos will set your mind at peace.

It is one of Skiathos’ most popular destinations for weddings.

The church’s architecture reflects the culture of the place it is situated in.

Clock tower of the Church of Agios Nikolaos

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According to history, it is dedicated to St. Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors.

It takes a bit of a climb to get to the church, but it will surely be worth it.

The Church of Agios Nikolaos is located in a vibrant area filled with boutiques that invite you to roam around and have a wonderful time.

Go Diving and Explore Skiathos’ Beautiful Underwater

View of the gorgeous waters of Skiathos

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As Skiathos is famous for its fresh waters, diving is one of the best things you can do or at least try (if you are a beginner) when visiting the island.

The reefs and caves will be a special delight to your eyes, and you can also opt to take courses for diving.

You cannot afford to miss out on this fun, as you will be able to get the deepest views of the sea and the peace that you may have been longing for.

A scuba diver near Skiathos' sunken ship

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Your safety is assured, as all the schools have highly qualified professionals with special degrees in Physical Education.

They also arrange boat tours, which are available around Skiathos Town.

Join a tour and get the best views of Skiathos’ breathtaking marine life.

Go Back in Time at the Evangelistria Monastery

Exterior of the Monastery of Evangelistria

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Surrounded by beautiful greenery and fir trees, the Evangelistria Monastery is an important religious place in Greece.

Its history dates back to the Greek revolution, during which refugees used the monastery.

It was here where the first Greek flag was waved for the first time.

A display in Evangelistria Monastery

Plucas58, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The monastery also houses a small museum showcasing priests’ artifacts, such as books and manuscripts.

You should visit the Evangelistria Monastery if you wish to dig deeper into Greece’s historical treasures.

View of Evangelistria Monastery's roof

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Wander around Old Town Skiathos’ Cobblestone Streets

An alley at Old Town Skiathos

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True to its name, the lovely Old Town brims with old-world charm.

Instead of high-rise buildings, the streets are lined with small, quaint houses.

You can walk around the town as there are not many vehicles, and this will also allow you to look out for the narrow alleys that can be traveled only on foot.

A restaurant along Old Town Skiathos

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Old Town Skiathos is filled with clubs and bars, so you know where to go to have fun and experience the town’s vibrant nightlife.

Some bars provide authentic Greek alcohol, and you cannot afford to miss out on that.

People touring around Old Town Skiathos

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Glimpse into the Home of a Famous Greek Writer at Papadiamantis House Museum

House of Papadiamantis

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The home of one of the most prolific Greek writers, Alexandros Papadiamantis, is known as Papadiamantis House Museum.

It now officially belongs to the Municipality of Skiathos and is filled with items that showcase the writer’s life and works.

You will get to view the most original manuscripts and see how they represent the best of Greek culture.

Exterior of Papadiamantis House Museum

Sergey Bostandzhyan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With this, the government has also preserved Papadiamantis’ furniture, and the house represents traditional Greek architecture.

If you wish to know about the religious way this writer lived and how religion influenced the life and history of Greece, this place should be one of your priorities when crafting your itinerary.

Facade of Papadiamantis House Museum

Sergey Bostandzhyan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Try Authentic Greek Cuisine at Meltemi Cafe Bistro Bar

No trip to Skiathos can be complete without getting to taste authentic Greek cuisine, and Meltemi Cafe Bistro Bar is one of the best places to do so.

Apart from Greek flavors, the restaurant also serves other Mediterranean dishes.

Offering everything from breakfast to post-dinner cocktails, they serve some fantastic pancakes here, too.

Beers, cappuccino, fresh juices, and espressos are some drinks you’ll find on the menu.

The club sandwich, pasta, spaghetti carbonara, and various flavored omelets are among their most popular dishes.

Meltemi Cafe Bistro Bar also has a special menu for vegan diners.

Admire the Ceramics and Vintage Pieces at The Blue House Art Gallery

Located in Skiathos Town, The Blue House Art Gallery deserves a place on your itinerary.

It is a perfect amalgamation of modern and traditional art.

You will get to see some unique pottery designs that are on display.

The gallery also showcases stunning pieces of handmade jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces studded with sapphires and diamonds.

They are too beautiful and attract a lot of attention.

One specific ring on display is designed with white gold, tanzanite, and diamond.

The Blue House Art Gallery’s lovely ceramics and vintage pieces will connect you to Greece’s traditional history.

If you love all things vintage, you have to visit this gallery.

Join a Skiathos Day Cruise with Traditional Yacht and Captain Cook

How about exploring Skiathos on a day cruise?

Local boat tour agency Traditional Yacht offers a fun and luxurious Skiathos Day Cruise, complete with fantastic cuisine by Captain Cook.

The yacht has wooden interiors and a lovely sundeck, perfect for kicking back and relaxing with an ice-cold beer.

Captain Cook prepares some of the most delectable dishes for lunch, and they all boast original Greek flavors.

The staff also offers the option of a photoshoot.

You can plan special occasions with Traditional Yacht, and your group will surely enjoy both the atmosphere and the cuisine.

Try the Unique and Flavorful Cocktails at Tesla

Tesla is the right place to go if you want to experience nightlife in Skiathos.

The bar is lively, boasts aesthetic interiors, and serves some of the most unique cocktails in town.

The Voyager, cannabis tequila, ginger beer, and mustard light foam are among Tesla’s most famous drinks.

Saketini is yet another of their excellent drinks and is a fantastic fusion of Japanese and Greek flavors.

It pairs perfectly with quail egg, onion, and kritamo or local rock samphire.

Tesla is also known to host live music performances that guests always enjoy.

Watch a Film under the Stars at Attikon

Attikon is Skiathos’ open-air cinema that dates back to 1962.

Mamma Mia enthusiasts will be pleased to find that the cinema screens this film every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.

An 0pen-air movie experience at Attikon is always fun, as you enjoy your favorite movies under the night sky.

Its romantic setting makes a movie date at Attikon a perfect idea for couples visiting the city.

You can watch English movies with Greek subtitles, with your favorite beer, popcorn, and other snacks.

Experience Skiathos’ Nightlife at Rock n Roll Bar

Street tables and chairs setting of Rock n Roll Bar

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Rock n Roll Bar is one of the best places to experience the nightlife in Skiathos.

The Cultural Organisation Pragmata awarded this bar with the title “Best Bar in Europe.”

Known for its lovely and lively atmosphere, it is also surrounded by some beautiful scenery, including the sea.

The music played here is a mix of modern, 1970s, and 1990s rock—so prepare to dance the night away!

On top of that, Rock n Roll bar serves fantastic cocktails like the Rock n Roll Passion Mojito, which is made with fresh fruits.

Book a Stay at the Luxurious Skiathos Palace Hotel

Want to stay near the heavenly Maratha Beach?

The Skiathos Palace Hotel is located closest to it, and its rooms, pools, and many prime areas offer the best view of the sea.

All the hotel’s rooms speak of luxury, and the staff promises you a very comfortable stay.

The rooms are equipped with minibars, and reception services are available 24 hours a day.

This hotel is found in one of Skiathos’ prime locations and is definitely worth a stay.

Most travelers are very comfortable staying at this hotel, mainly because many tourist places are located within proximity.

You can visit the famous Lalaria Beach, monasteries, and chapels.

If spirituality, comfort, and luxury are what you seek, don’t hesitate to book a stay at the Skiathos Palace Hotel.

Sample the Amazing Donuts at Melina’s Donuts Coffee and More

There are many fantastic things to do in Skiathos, and sampling the food at Melina’s Donuts Coffee and More is one of them.

As its name suggests, this cafe serves delicious donuts and coffee.

Their Oreo donut and lemon croissants are among their must-try offerings.

If you’re looking for something savory, the Melina’s Burger with Schnitzel Chicken Fillet is one of their most popular dishes.

Their other burgers and sandwiches are worth checking out, too.

The place also serves fruit juices and fruit salads prepared with honey, muesli, and nuts.

Have a Meal with a Spectacular View at Crazy Cow Restaurant

Crazy Cow Restaurant is distinguished by its exquisite cuisine and welcoming ambiance, which work perfectly together.

The restaurant’s most marvelous attribute is the contemporary, comfortable environment with stunning pool views.

This restaurant provides its patrons with a pleasant experience with its exceptional food, customer service, and ambiance.

Go and experience the magnificent cuisine at Crazy Cow Restaurant, one of the best places to eat in Skiathos!

Go Windsurfing, Waterskiing, or Banan Boating at Agia Eleni Beach

Aerial view of Agia Eleni Beach's water

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Agia Eleni Beach is the perfect place for individuals seeking unique experiences in serene natural settings because of its tranquil, crystal-clear seas and excellent sandy beach.

Go swimming at the beach and delight in cold beverages and delectable appetizers under the thick shade of pine trees.

People enjoying the sun at Agia Eleni Beach

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The beach is an excellent location for those who enjoy participating in water sports.

In the nearby water sports facility, you can try windsurfing, waterskiing, canoeing, and banana boating to blend the tranquility of the sea with the adrenaline of the activity.

Explore the Agia Eleni Beach and appreciate the ambiance around.

Colorful beach umbrellas and chairs at Agia Eleni Beach

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Get a Good Night’s Sleep at the Bourtzi Hotel

The Bourtzi Hotel is a contemporary design hotel with a prime location just a short walk from the port of Skiathos.

Due to its convenient position, the hotel serves as a great starting point for exploring Skiathos and its neighboring islands, as well as taking advantage of all the town of Skiathos has to offer.

The hotel offers 38 modern guest rooms with all the facilities, an outdoor pool with sun loungers, and a chic cocktail bar.

The Bourtzi Hotel has received recognition for the hospitality and services they offer.

You will enjoy a tranquil setting and individualized treatment at the Bourtzi Hotel Skiathos, which will make your trip to the lovely island of Skiathos unforgettable.

Enjoy the Clear Waters and Golden-White Sand at Troulos Beach

Aerial view of Troulos Beach

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Troulos Beach is located nine kilometers from Skiathos Town on the island’s southern shore.

The beach features some of the smoothest sand on the entire island and is known for its clean water and moderate slope.

View of Troulos Beach's white sand

Constantinos Iliopoulos / Shutterstock.com

It stands out for its clear waters, golden-white sand, and large pine trees that give guests shade.

Troulos Beach is well-maintained, with several amenities available, including sundecks and umbrellas.

There are several bars and canteens providing snacks and cool drinks in the vicinity, along with a variety of accommodation.

Have a Delectable Meal at Paraxenos Restaurant

Savor the finest Greek and Mediterranean dishes in a beautiful setting when you dine at Paraxenos Restaurant in Skiathos Town.

The family-run restaurant was founded in 2000 and is still being run by the same family members.

Paraxenos Restaurant strives to offer excellent service and hospitality via their committed personnel, as seen by the many loyal customers they get every year.

Through the use of locally sourced, delicious ingredients and time-tested but modernized techniques, their ongoing growth aims to promote Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take a Side Trip to the Beautiful Tsougria Island

Aerial view of Tsougria

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Although not a part of Skiathos, the wonderful Tsougrias Island is worth a day trip.

Just a quick boat ride away from Skiathos, this islet is the best place to visit if you are with your kids as it has the best atmosphere.

There are umbrellas and stalls selling food and drinks.

The waters are shallow, too.

Cruising the waters of Tsougria Island

RGallianos / Shutterstock.com

You can also opt to go on a few boat rides.

Since there are significantly fewer people who visit this beach, you’ll get to enjoy most of it to yourselves.

There is also a small church called Agios Floros Church, from where you can view the entire island, so do not forget to head towards it.

Agios floros church at Tsougria Island

Panos Karas / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

Skiathos is the ideal vacation spot because of its beaches and vibrant, youthful nightlife.

Take a swim at the beach, engage in various outdoor pursuits, and book lodging for your overnight stay.

You can spend quality time with friends and family while getting back in touch with nature.

Remember to order delicious meals at Skiathos’ many restaurants, where you can enjoy delectable Greek dishes, desserts, and refreshing drinks to refuel for a fun-filled day.

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