Top things to do in Skiathos

It's well worth spending an afternoon strolling through the old town of Skiathos. One of the places not to be missed is the fortress of Bourtzi, on the eastern side of the harbour. Built by the Venetians to protect this once important port, the fortress offers a breathtaking view of the harbour from terraces shaded by mature pine trees. Once you've taken in the view, head down to the spot you've just seen to stroll along the pretty seafront lined with cafés and restaurants. The rest of your visit should include the maze of narrow, winding streets and staircases that form the heart of the old town. Here you'll find quaint boutiques, galleries and bars and, on Papadiamantis Street, the famous open-air cinema showing, of course, Mamma Mia.

Skiathos harbour is the perfect place to seek out a boat trip to discover this magnificent island. Set sail for the uninhabited beauty of Tsougria Island or explore the Skiathos coastline, discovering hidden beaches and coves along the way. Join a Mamma Mia-themed excursion to Skopelos, where you can visit iconic film locations such as the church of Agios Ioannis Kastri. For a more intimate encounter with marine life, join a snorkelling excursion to Kalamaki, Tsougriaki or Arco, guided by experts who will show you underwater wonders from starfish to octopus and much more.

Founded by monks from Mount Athos in 1794, the monastery of Evangelistria has played an important role in the development of Greek identity. Used as a refuge by insurgents during the final years of Ottoman rule, freedom fighters came to the monastery in 1807 to swear allegiance to a flag depicting a white cross on a blue background, the forerunner of today's Greek national emblem. Located 5km north of the town of Skiathos, the church of Evangelistria contains icons dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. The site also houses a museum displaying ancient manuscripts and silver and wooden crosses. The loom used to weave the first Greek flag has pride of place in the museum.

You can see the uninhabited island of Tsougria from the clock tower in Skiathos town. It's the perfect place to get away from it all and relax for the day. op on an early morning boat trip from the harbor to explore the island's four beaches.  Once there, take a hike up its rugged ridge for breathtaking views over Skiathos and nearby Skopelos. Although facilities are limited, you'll find a small bar on one of the beaches open in high season. So grab your beach bag and picnic and relax on the tranquil island of Tsougria.

The church and clock tower of Agios Nikolaos are located on a small hill above Skiathos. Particularly visible at night when illuminated, the church is reached by a steep staircase that is not for the faint-hearted. However, it's well worth the effort, as you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the harbour and the old town, as well as the mountains to the west. This is a popular spot for capturing the sunset over the island. It is also a firm favourite with fans of the film Mamma Mia, in which the Clock Tower features.

If you fancy a cultural experience, take a leisurely stroll from the port to visit the humble home of poet and novelist Alexandros Papadiamantis (1851 - 1911). Built in 1860 by his father, a priest, this picturesque two-storey house was Papadiamantis' birthplace and home until his death. Now transformed into a museum, it displays various mementos from the writer's life, including his bed, desk and ink bottles. Visitors are invited to explore the space where the author lived and worked.

The waters off Skiathos are perfect for trying your hand at scuba diving. With warm waters of around 26 degrees from July to September, visibility of 30 metres and an abundance of marine life to discover, the island is ideal for beginners or experienced underwater adventurers. There are two certified diving schools, Skiathos Diving Centre and Octopus Diving Centre, both located in Chora. Courses are available for beginners and it is possible to obtain a PADI certificate. For qualified divers, the centres organise trips to reefs, caves, wrecks and even night-time excursions.

Skiathos may be small, but it has an impressive number of beautiful beaches along its coastline. The west and south of the island seem to be a constant mix of perfect bays, golden sands and rocky outcrops, all set against a backdrop of lush green forests. Our favourites include the vibrant Big Banana beach, named for its shape and bright yellow sand, and Vromolimnos beach, where fun is guaranteed in the lively beach bars. For those looking for a secluded, unspoilt beach, choose Lalaria, which can only be reached by boat. Finally, choose one of the many beaches on the west coast to admire the magnificent sunsets over the Aegean Sea.