Best Time To Visit: Mild winters and long hot summers make Skiathos a great destination year-round.

Key Cruising Areas: With plenty of beaches only accessible by boat, sailing around the island can easily fill a week. Continue on to explore more of the Sporades islands, and further south the islands of Skopelos, Alonissos, and Kira Pangia have some beautiful bays and pretty anchorages.

Don’t Miss: Skiathos is full of activities for those who love exploring nature. A highlight of a visit to the island is the riding center in Koukounaries. With a modern setup, they offer memorable trips riding in high mountains and paths that aren’t accessible by hiking.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The best tavernas and more highly regarded restaurants can be found above the old port and around the marina. For a menu created with premium, organic ingredients and Greek flavour, head to Ergon Cuisine.

Best Local Dish: In downtown Skiathos, you can find a plethora of gyros stands and tavernas – true Grecian street food! For a more upmarket taste of local specialties try Bakaliko tis Paralias, where you will find dishes such as rock samphire and sheep cheese fritters on the menu.

Local Culture: The island is rich in culture and history. The Kehriysky Monastery is beautiful and secluded, while the Monastery of Kunistra now houses the Museum of Byzantine Culture. For a slightly quirky experience, visit the impressive Monastery of Evangelistria, now the location of the world’s largest and most eclectic collection of musical instruments.

Best Beach: The white pebble sand of Lalaria beach is flanked by an impressive sea arch and cliffs. Accessible only by boat, this hidden spot is ideal to escape to on your private yacht.

IYC recommends: For a unique view of Skiathos island, take a private helicopter sightseeing tour. The dark, pine wooded island, laced with winding roads and fringed with white beaches, is an incredible sight from the air. With views over the islands and mainland Greece, take home amazing memories of the sun glinting off the water from the sky.