The Ultimate Beginner’s Travel Guide to Skiathos
We finally made it to visit the stunning island of Skiathos this summer, and let me tell you, it’s worth the hype! I have never met anyone who didn’t like this island, and now I get it. You need to add it to your list of Greek islands to visit, and put it at the top. Here’s my ultimate beginner’s guide to Skiathos – here’s everything you need to know.
Getting To Skiathos
The flight from the UK to Skiathos is around 3 to 3.5 hours. There aren’t as many flights to Skiathos as some of the bigger islands, but there are UK flights most days. Unlike the bigger islands, Skiathos doesn’t have its first UK arrival until the beginning of May or the last day or 2 of April. The tourist side starts to wind down at the end of September, so it’s quite a short season. You can also access Skiathos by ferry from lots of ports in Greece.
On Arrival in Skiathos
If you are travelling to Skiathos on a package holiday, you will no doubt have transfers included. The longest transfer is around 35 minutes, so not too bad at all. The island is only around 12km long, making every resort very easily accessible. Taxis are waiting outside the arrivals terminal, ready to take you to your destination too. The most cost-effective way to get from the airport to your resort is by bus. A public bus from the airport to Skiathos town is €3.
Skiathos Town
The island’s capital is full of Greek charm. Cobbled streets with a huge assortment of shops, bars and restaurants. Some of the scenes from Mamma Mia! were filmed in Skiathos town, around the streets and by the pretty old port. There’s accommodation, bars and restaurants for everyone in Skiathos town. You can have a traditional Greek meal and a chilled out drink, or a lively night on bar street. My favourite part of Skiathos town is where you can get right up to the end of the airport runway and watch the planes come in and take off. Bus stops 0-4 cover Skiathos town from the port to the top of the hill.
Megali Ammos
Right next to Skiathos town, at bus stop number 5, is Magali Ammos. Small but perfectly formed, this resort has a beautiful beach, a handful of bars and tavernas and some lovely upmarket hotels. If you’re looking for a beach and to be within walking distance of Skiathos town, Megali Ammos is the one for you.
Koukounaries
Right at the end of the bus route (stop 26) is the pretty Koukounaries. The beach is probably my favourite, it’s the once that we spent the most time at. There are plenty of sunbeds at various costs for the different suppliers, watersports, a beach bar and space to just lie out on a towel if you prefer. There is also a boat on the hour to Skiathos town at a cost of €5 each way.
Agia Paraskevi
Agia Paraskevi is where we stayed. A small but perfectly formed little resort at bus stop 16. Very chilled and peaceful with a beautiful sandy beach. There’s a great selection of restaurants, including the very popular Pork N Roll. Accommodation in Agia Paraskevi ranges from basic self-catering apartments to 4* beachfront hotels.
Troulos
If you’re looking for a laid-back base for your first trip to Skiathos, Troulos is a great choice. Located at bus stop 18 on the island’s handy coastal bus route, it’s easy to get around without needing a car. This peaceful resort is known for its Blue Flag beach, calm, clear waters, and traditional Greek tavernas lining the shore. It’s ideal for families or anyone after a slower pace. Surrounded by countryside and just a 15-minute drive from Skiathos Town, Troulos offers the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience.
Everywhere Else
If you’re looking beyond the main resorts, Kolios, Achladies, and Kanapitsa are all worth considering. Tucked along the southern coast between bus stops 11 and 13, these quieter spots offer a more low-key experience while still being close to Skiathos Town. Kolios is known for its peaceful setting and gentle hills, while Achladies has a relaxed beach vibe and even a handy water taxi into town. Kanapitsa feels more secluded, surrounded by pine trees and offering stunning sea views. Ideal for couples or families wanting a slower pace, these resorts are great for unwinding while still being within easy reach of the island’s main attractions.
Out and About in Skiathos
Getting around Skiathos couldn’t be easier, especially for first-time visitors. The island’s reliable and affordable bus service runs along the south coast from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries, stopping at all the main resorts – and as mentioned earlier, each stop is numbered, making it simple to navigate.
If you fancy seeing the island from the water, boat trips run daily from the old port in Skiathos Town, offering everything from beach-hopping tours to visits to the famous Lalaria Beach or even neighbouring islands. For those who prefer to explore on foot, Skiathos is criss-crossed with scenic walking trails that take you through pine forests, olive groves, and up into the hills for breathtaking views. One must-see inland is the peaceful Evangelistria Monastery – a beautiful and historic spot with a fascinating connection to Greek independence and a lovely break from the beach.
Skiathos Beginners Guide Basics
- Flight time: 3-3.5 hours
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Language: Greek
- Currency: Euro
- When to go: May – September
- How to get there: From the UK, there are flights daily
- Who should travel here? Everyone, singles, couples, families… There’s something to suit everyone.
I have never met anyone who hasn’t fallen in love with Skiathos from their first visit, and I can see why. I’d love to hear your thoughts, hopefully this will help your holiday planning too.
Becky x
