Pine forests tumbling down to golden sand, turquoise waters you'll want to dive straight into, and that unmistakable Greek island energy - Skiathos has got something for everyone.
✨ Destination Highlights
Stunning beaches perfect for all occasions.
An explorers dream with plenty of hiking trails to stroll down.
A gorge mix of affordable hotels across the island.
Delish dining spots that'll have the whole fam feeling content.
🎉 Good to Know
🤩 Fun fact: Calling all film buffs! Skiathos was one of the dreamy filming locations for Mamma Mia! – so if the scenery feels straight out of a movie, that’s because it literally is.
🏖️ Best beach: Koukounaries Beach takes the crown here – golden sands, lush pine trees, and the kind of clear waters that make you want to dive in pronto. Oh, and it's got a proper good beach bar scene too.
🍺 Price of a pint: Expect to part with around €4.50 for a cold one – though beachfront spots might bump it up a tad.
🏨 Where to Stay on your Skiathos holidays
Skiathos might be small, but it’s well and truly mighty. These Greece holidays have incredible places to stay, whether you're after something cheap, cheerful, and leaving soon, or you're getting ahead of yourself for holidays in 2027. No matter what you're after, beachfront bliss, lively nightlife, or a secluded escape, this island’s got the goods.
Agia Paraskevi – a boujee beachside stay, with lush resorts, golden sands, and a more upscale feel. If you’re here for a topper holiday with a touch of luxury, this is your place.
Kolios - a top shout for chilled family holidays, with calm, shallow waters, a sandy beach, and easy access to nearby restaurants and minimarkets. Ideal if you’re after peace without being too far from the fun.
Skiathos Town – the island’s buzzing hub, packed with swanky waterfront bars, tavernas serving up delish Greek eats, and charming cobbled streets. Perfect for nightlife lovers and those who like to be in the heart of the action.
Troulos - a small-but-mighty beach resort perfect for families and couples who love slow mornings, clear waters, and tavernas serving everything from Greek salads to seafood spaghetti. A quieter vibe, but still full of charm.
Other places to stay in Skiathos:
🏖️ What are the best beaches to try on your Skiathos holidays 2026?
Right, first things first. You can't mention Skiathos without waxing lyrical about the beaches – and boy, does it have some stunners! Stretching from secluded coves to bustling resorts, there are more than 60 to choose from, basically a guaranteed 10/10 beach holiday. There's something for everyone, whether you want to flop on a sunbed with a cocktail or try out water sports. A few not to miss include:
Vromolimnos Beach - A natural beauty with a calm bay and stun surrounding pine forests, this is deffo not a beach to miss while you're on your Skiathos holidays.
Koukounaries - In a list of 60 on the island, not the mention the hundreds more across the region, for this to be famed as one of Greece's best should be all the reason you need to zoom over here immediately.
Banana Beach - Surprising to absolutely no-one, this beach is the hotspot destination for getting your adrenaline fix with water sports galore.
Lalaria Beach - We loveee a bit of exclusivity, so when we say a beach that's only accessible by boat, you know we're giddy with excitement, this one's a real hidden treasure.
Agia Eleni - We're bringing the relaxed vacay vibes to your holiday to Skiathos with this one, think stunning sunsets and chilled-out beach bars.
Agia Paraskevi - We had to shout-out a classic, family-friendly spot with shallow waters and plenty of tavernas nearby so the little ones have got plenty of stimulation and you've got plenty of places to grab a pint.
🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Skiathos?
Skiathos might be small, but when it comes to places to stay, it punches well above its weight. From beachfront family resorts to boutique boltholes and budget-friendly studios, there's something for every type of holiday.
For Families
Beaches with calm, shallow waters and hotels with pools, kids' clubs and all the trimmings – these spots are brilliant for travelling with little ones.
Radisson Resort Plaza Skiathos – A proper family-friendly four-star in Kanapitsa with a kids' pool, playground and roof garden. The beach is just 400m away and Skiathos Town is a short bus ride.
Princess Resort – This five-star in Agia Paraskevi is right on the beach with 132 rooms, two restaurants and a spa. One of the island's top family picks.
Muses Hotel – A three-star gem in Koukounaries, just 350m from the famous beach and overlooking Strofilia Lake. Great for nature-loving families.
For Couples
Romance, views and a bit of peace and quiet – these are the spots for couples after quality time together.
Aegean Suites - Adult Only – A five-star stunner in Megali Ammos with just 20 suites, an open-air hot tub and a champagne lounge. Adults only means blissful quiet.
Skiathos Palace Hotel – Five-star luxury perched above Maratha Beach in Koukounaries with panoramic sea views, a rooftop grill and seriously swanky rooms.
Budget-Friendly Stays
All the Greek island magic without breaking the bank – these options keep costs down while still delivering the goods.
Alkyon Hotel - Skiathos – A brilliant four-star just 200m from Skiathos Town centre. Great reviews, stunning views and close to all the nightlife.
Skiathos Luxury Living – Don't let the name fool you – these stylish apartments in Skiathos Town are surprisingly affordable with a gorgeous pool and sea views.
Thymis Home Studios – Simple, cheerful studios that won't rinse the holiday fund. Perfect if you're planning to spend most of your time out exploring.
✈️ Your Skiathos Holidays 2026 travel guide
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Things to do in Skiathos for families
Skiathos makes travelling with the kids easy-breezy, with beaches, boat trips and animal cuddles all on the cards for your family jollies.
Head to Agia Paraskevi or Troulos beaches for calm waters and soft sand – perfect for paddling and playing.
Book a glass-bottom boat tour from Skiathos Town to keep little eyes glued to the sea floor.
Visit the Skiathos Dog Shelter for a wholesome walk with a four-legged friend – great fun and great karma.
Cool off at Sklithri Water Sports with kid-friendly pedalos or go-slow banana boat rides.
Refuel at a beachfront taverna where picky eaters can stick to chips while grown-ups dive into Greek classics.
❤️ Things to do in Skiathos for couples
Romantic walks, hidden beaches and candlelit dinners – Skiathos is a couple’s paradise with the perfect mix of chill and charm.
Take a boat to Lalaria Beach – only reachable by sea and totally swoon-worthy.
Hike up to Kastro, the island’s clifftop medieval town, for unbeatable sunset views and serene vibes.
Catch a flick under the stars at the open-air cinema in Skiathos Town – classics and cocktails included.
Share a seafood platter at a rooftop restaurant in the harbour, with views that’ll outshine your phone screen.
Get a couples’ massage or pamper session at one of the boutique hotel spas around Megali Ammos.
🍹 Things to do in Skiathos for groups
Whether you’re here for the laughs or the late nights, Skiathos has your group holiday sorted.
Koukounaries Beach is the day-one move – with loungers, bars, and water sports galore.
Hire a private boat and hop around hidden beaches with a picnic and playlist in hand.
Head into Skiathos Town for drinks, dancing, and maybe a cheeky karaoke moment after dark.
Try quads or scooters for a DIY island tour – perfect for snapping content as you go.
Book a vineyard tour or olive oil tasting for a more chilled group vibe (with snacks, obvs).
🇬🇷 Things to do in Skiathos for foodies
This tiny island is punching well above its weight when it comes to flavour – expect full plates and happy bellies.
Dive into local staples like keftedes, spetzofai, and fresh calamari, best served with a sea view.
Tuck into a rustic Greek breakfast at a village café in Kolios – think yoghurt, honey and strong coffee.
Try the almond-packed amygdalota – Skiathos’ answer to marzipan, but tastier and chewier.
Book a Greek cooking class and whip up your own tzatziki, moussaka or tomato fritters like a local.
Grab dinner at a traditional taverna in Kanapitsa, where the seafood is caught that morning and the wine flows freely.
🚕 Getting around on your Skiathos holidays
🚌 Local Bus - the island’s bus system is small but mighty, running from Skiathos Town all the way to Koukounaries Beach with loads of resort stops in between. It’s reliable, cheap, and ideal if you're planning classic beach-hop days.
⛴️ Water Taxis - fancy swapping traffic for turquoise views? Water taxis run regularly between major beaches like Achladies, Vasilias, and Koukounaries, and they’re a fun, scenic way to get around – especially when the sun’s out.
🚗 Car or Scooter Hire - want to explore Skiathos’ off-the-beaten-path gems? Hiring a car or scooter gives you full freedom to hit quiet coves, hilltop monasteries, and sunset spots. Just keep in mind – the roads can be narrow and twisty, so take it slow and enjoy the ride.
🎬 The Mamma Mia Connection
Right, let's address the elephant in the room – or should we say, the ABBA in the taverna. Skiathos was one of the filming locations for the original Mamma Mia movie, and you can still visit the spots where the magic happened.
Skiathos Old Port – This is where Sam, Bill and Harry (the three potential dads) meet for the first time and try to catch a ferry to the fictional island of Kalokairi. The picturesque harbour with its colourful boats and the Bourtzi peninsula in the background is instantly recognisable. Grab a freddo espresso and pretend you're waiting for your own Greek adventure to begin.
Agios Nikolaos Church – The opening scene where Sophie sings "I Have a Dream" while posting the wedding invitations was filmed with views over Skiathos Town's rooftops and this church's distinctive bell tower.
Papadiamanti Street – The charming cobbled main street of Skiathos Town appears in several walking scenes. It's still packed with shops, cafés and that unmistakable Greek island atmosphere.
Want to see more? Most of the Mamma Mia filming actually took place on neighbouring Skopelos – including the famous clifftop wedding chapel. But the good news is you can hop on a ferry from Skiathos and do a day trip to see all the key locations. Boat tours to Skopelos run regularly from Skiathos Town harbour, and some are specifically themed around the movie locations.
The Sporades islands – Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos – together formed the fictional island of Kalokairi in the film. And honestly? The real thing is even more beautiful than what made it onto screen.
💸 Cheap Skiathos Holidays: Boss the Island on a Budget
Good news: Skiathos is one of those Greek islands where you can have a brilliant time without spending a fortune. Here's how to stretch your euros further.
Time it right May, early June and September are your sweet spots – flights and hotels cost less than peak summer, the beaches are quieter, and the weather is still gorgeous (think 23-27°C). You'll dodge the school holiday crowds and actually be able to get a sunbed.
Eat where the locals eat Skip the harbourfront restaurants in Skiathos Town (pretty views, pricey menus) and head to the backstreet tavernas instead. Places like Taverna Dionyssos and the Ding Dong Man (yes, really) serve up massive portions of proper Greek food for a fraction of the price. Expect to pay around €30-40 for two including starters, mains and a carafe of house wine.
Ditch the sunbeds Sunbed hire adds up – around €8 a day at popular beaches. Bring your own towel and a cheap beach umbrella and you'll save a small fortune over a week. Plus, you can pick your own spot rather than being sardined in with everyone else.
Use the bus Skiathos has a cracking little bus service that runs from Skiathos Town all the way to Koukounaries, stopping at all the main beaches along the southern coast. Tickets are around €2-3 each way, so you can beach-hop without the expense of taxis or car hire.
Go self-catering Book an apartment or studio with a kitchen and you can save loads on breakfast and lunch. The local supermarkets are well-stocked with fresh bread, Greek yoghurt, honey, olives and all the good stuff. Save the taverna splurges for dinner.
Free activities that don't feel free
🏊 Swimming at any of the 60+ beaches (obviously)
🥾 Hiking the trails to Evangelistria Monastery or up to Kastro – stunning views, zero cost
🎬 Watching the sunset from Bourtzi with a cheap beer from a kiosk
🚶 Wandering the cobbled streets of Skiathos Town and people-watching
🏛️ Visiting the Papadiamantis House Museum (tiny entry fee)
Other Greece Holidays:
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Weather in Skiathos
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Skiathos is a Greek island - it loves to serve up summer sizzlers like they're going out of fashion, but don't get it twisted, this is a sunny spot for most of the year. Whether you're looking to chase the heat, or enjoy something a lil more lowkey, lazing on the beach or wandering the streets, we've got you covered.
Let's start with everyones fave time, during Summer you can expect toasty temps of around 25°C to 30°C - ice creams by the pool and bangin beach bods at the ready, it's a scorcher best enjoyed with a water source close by for a cheeky cooldown dip.
Autumn isn't letting Summer run away with the win though, you can still snag some hot days ranging from 25°C - 15°C, you'll be beating the Summer crowds and with the slight dip it means if you're partial to a wander, you won't be dripping after five mins.
When Winter blows into town, you're looking at a cooler - but no less iconic - 10°C - 15°C, a calm, relaxing atmosphere and still glimmers of sunshine... let it be known that Winter is Winter afterall, and these months see the most rainfall - that's what coats are for though!
Springtime is a time for rebirth, and that's what Skiathos is giving - a rebirth of toastier climes and sunny days with temps ranging between 15°C - 25°C - time to crack out the hiking boots and get exploring all this gorge island has to offer before the school holidays start.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Skiathos?
How long does it take to fly to Skiathos?
Direct flights from the UK & Ireland take around 3-3.5 hours. Most flights operate seasonally from May to October, with airlines like Jet2, TUI and British Airways running routes from various UK airports.
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Skiathos?
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Skiathos?
Skiathos is 2 hours ahead of the time in the UK/Ireland - so if you land at 7, that's actually 5 which means you're about 5 hours overdue a pint.
What currency do they use in Skiathos?
What currency do they use in Skiathos?
The official currency of Skiathos is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Skiathos?
What language do they speak in Skiathos?
The official language spoken in Skiathos is Greek.
How do I get from Skiathos Airport to my hotel?
How do I get from Skiathos Airport to my hotel?
Skiathos Airport is tiny and brilliantly located – most resorts are just 10-40 minutes away. Here are the transfer times to the main areas:
🏨 Skiathos Town / Megali Ammos – 5-10 minutes
🏨 Kanapitsa – 10-15 minutes
🏨 Troulos – 15-20 minutes
🏨 Agia Paraskevi – 20-25 minutes
🏨 Koukounaries – 30-40 minutes
The local bus runs from near the airport to Koukounaries for around €2-3, stopping at all the main resorts along the way. But if you'd rather not wrestle luggage onto a bus after a flight, book your transfers through us as part of your package and you can kick back from the moment you land.
Is Skiathos expensive?
Is Skiathos expensive?
Skiathos is mid-range for a Greek island – not as budget-friendly as some mainland destinations, but nowhere near as pricey as Mykonos or Santorini. A pint costs around €4-5, a taverna meal for two with wine is €30-40, and sunbed hire is typically €6-8 per day. Book in shoulder season (May/September) for the best value.
Is Skiathos good for families?
Is Skiathos good for families?
Absolutely. The southern beaches have calm, shallow waters that are perfect for paddling, and resorts like Troulos, Kolios and Agia Paraskevi are particularly family-friendly. There are boat trips, hiking trails, water sports and even a dog shelter that welcomes visitors for walks. Plus the bus service makes it easy to explore without needing a car.
Is Skiathos good for couples?
Is Skiathos good for couples?
It's gorgeous for a romantic getaway. Vasilias and Megali Ammos have that secluded hillside vibe, the sunsets from Kastro are proper swoon-worthy, and there are plenty of candlelit harbourside restaurants for evening meals. For the ultimate couples' escape, book an adults-only hotel like the Aegean Suites.
