Skiathos Town

Brief History

The history of Skiathos begins in the pre-Hellenic period, with its first inhabitants being the Pelasgians. The idyllic location, spacious harbor, and beautiful environment made the island an attractive destination for many civilizations throughout the centuries. The Ionians took over the island around the 7th century BC and established a settlement on the site of the modern town of Skiathos. The settlement thrived until the Byzantine Era when it was overshadowed by the medieval town of Kastro on the northern side of the island.

Skiathos played an important role in the Greek War of Independence against the Turks, with many revolutionary heroes seeking refuge on the island. After the war, Kastro became less important and was mostly abandoned by 1830, when the capital was moved and the modern Skiathos Town is thought to have been established. The town was greatly damaged by German bombs during the Nazi occupation in the 1940s but was rebuilt shortly after. By the early 1960s, tourism started growing which was further boosted by the opening of the International Skiathos Airport in the 1970s.

Sights

Bourtzi

Bourtzi is a small peninsula that separates the commercial and old ports of Skiathos. It is covered with pine trees and offers gorgeous views of the sea and the rest of the island. On this peninsula lie the remains of the old castle built by the Gizi brothers during the Venetian period. Despite the high tourism, Bourtzi is still quite picturesque and is a pleasant place for a relaxing walk amidst a tranquil environment.

Churches

The Church of Three Bishops: This is a beautiful 19th-century cathedral, distinguished for its tall bell tower and fine, handmade icons.
The Church of Agios Nikolaos: Lying atop the eastern hill of the town, this church is famous for its clock tower that overlooks the scenic port and provides panoramic views of the island.
The Church of Panagia Limnia: A significant religious center, it was founded after the Greek revolution of 1821 by inhabitants that originated from the area of Limni in Evia.

Museums

Alexandros Papadiamantis Museum: It is located just a few hundred meters inland from the old port. Here you can see an exhibition dedicated to the life of the famous Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis inside the traditional home that he grew up in.
Skiathitiko Spiti: This is another interesting museum worthy of a visit, showcasing the day-to-day lives of the town’s inhabitants during the early 20th century. It features exhibits of vintage furnishings, household items, and old photographs among others.
Museum of Naval and Cultural Tradition: Established in 2015, this museum is housed inside the Municipal Cultural Center. It provides visitors with a thorough look at the shipbuilding and naval traditions that flourished on the island during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Beaches

The most renowned beaches are situated outside the town, but there are a few options in proximity to the island's capital.

Megali Ammos Beach: Translating to Big Sand in Greek, Megali Ammos is characterized by its long, sandy coast and crystalline waters. It is one of the most popular beaches on the island, offering plenty of amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports centers, and seaside restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Plakes Beach: This is a small pebbled beach located just a short walking distance from the city center. Lush pines and interesting rocks dominate this heavenly spot, which remains unorganized, offering a serene ambiance for moments of relaxation.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Skiathos Town features a vibrant nightlife that promises visitors endless hours of fun. Most of the entertainment is located on the main street known as Papadiamanti and the seafront. The famous Bar Street lies on the eastern side of the harbor and is dotted with a vast collection of nighttime venues as well. From seaside taverns and cafes to bustling bars and clubs hosting all-night-long parties, there is something here for everyone to enjoy, whether looking for some moments of relaxation or a lively night out.

Hotels

Those visiting Skiathos Town will be able to find plenty of accommodation options, from luxurious high-end hotels to small apartments and seaside villas. Many hotels have been constructed following the traditional local architecture, offering a uniquely authentic Skiathian experience. Some accommodations also allow for easy access to the beaches in the area.

Ways to Move Around

Skiathos Town is the center of most activities around the island. Visitors can move around the town by public bus, with frequent bus routes available daily. You can also opt to call a taxi or rent a private vehicle to explore the town at a more comfortable pace. Lastly, you can always rent a car to keep your schedule flexible and explore the island.