Skiathos Island: Frequently Asked Traveller Questions (Part 1 of 2)

Even if you are the more spontaneous type, any good vacation requires some forethought and pre-planning. It’s also good to know what to expect when you get there. Unsurprisingly, practically everyone wants to do a Greek Island holiday at some point, and you’re certainly not starved for choice. In fact, there are 1000s of islands. Skiathos Island features on many must do island lists and for good reason. It has 64 beaches, history, nature, shopping, nightlife, and a good dose of Mama Mia movie fame to recommend it.

Getting there, around and away

While some European cities offer direct flights to Skiathos, as with all Greek islands Athens is the main point of entry. From Athens you can reach Skiathos by ferry or airplane. A reliable and frequent bus service runs the length of the popular side of the island. You can also hire a road taxi or water taxi. If you want to explore in depth then hiring a car, scooter or quad bike is the way to go.

How to play pick-a-beach

Taking in the sites and activities all depends on how much time you have. You’ll need at least a week (preferably more) just to play pick-a-beach. Most first-time visitors rue not staying longer than 10 days as everyone has a favourite beach to which they want to return more than once and still experience what the rest of the island has to offer.

Are the historical attractions really worthwhile?

You won’t want to miss The Kastro, a medieval fortress built centuries ago, to which the entire town evacuated to escape pirate attacks. Taking a trip to the Evangelistra Monastery is also a must. Many people don’t know that the first Greek flag (as we know it today) was flown at this ancient monastery in 1807. It was made by the heroes of the Greek revolution.

Who is Greece’s most celebrated writer?

Literary enthusiasts certainly won’t want to miss the characterful, ambient house in which, quite possibly Greece’s most famous novelist and poet, Papadiamantis lived and died. You’ll find the museum house in the popular Papadiamantis strip in Skiathos town. It’s a quaint and intimate look at the way people lived in the mid to late 1800s and early 20th century.

Read part 2 of 2