8-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Skiathos, Greece

  • Day 1: Koukounaries Beach
    10 minutes (6.7km) from Skiathos Town

    Koukounaries Beach is a stunning, crescent-shaped beach with crystal clear water and soft golden sand. The kids will love playing in the shallow water, building sandcastles, and exploring the nearby pine forest. Rent sunbeds and umbrellas or bring your own beach equipment.

  • Day 2: Bourtzi Beach and Castle
    20 minutes (11.9km) from Koukounaries Beach

    Bourtzi Beach is a small sandy beach with clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail or relax under the sun at one of the several beach bars. Visit the nearby 13th century Bourtzi Castle accessible only by boat, take a guided tour and admire the breathtaking views of the city and the sea.

  • Day 3: Skiathos Old Port
    15 minutes (7.9km) from Bourtzi Beach

    The Old Port of Skiathos is an excellent place to wander around, grab lunch or dinner and admire the splendid views of the harbor, including the Bourtzi fortress. Take a trip with the family in a small boat from the port and go around the island to see the hidden beaches, caves and viewpoints.

  • Day 4: Lalaria Beach and Kastro Fortress
    45 minutes (15.2km) from Skiathos Old Port

    Lalaria Beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches on the island. The beach features white round pebbles, turquoise waters and the iconic "Needle" rock. Take a boat trip to reach the beach and enjoy the view on the way. Once back at the port, climb to the Kastro Fortress to learn the history of the medieval town of Skiathos and marvel at the panoramic views.

  • Day 5: Evangelistria Monastery and Asselinos Beach
    30 minutes (13.2km) from Kastro Fortress

    Visit the picturesque Evangelistria Monastery, one of Skiathos' most important religious sites. The impressive church features beautiful frescoes, and the museum displays artifacts and manuscripts. Afterward, drive to Asselinos Beach, a remote beach offering a peaceful atmosphere and crystal clear waters. The beach has no facilities, so bring your supplies, comfortable chairs, and umbrellas or towels.

  • Day 6: Kanapitsa Bay and Kahlua Beach Bar
    20 minutes (7.9km) from Asselinos Beach

    Kanapitsa Bay is a picturesque bay ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Have a delicious lunch at one of the local tavernas before heading over to Kahlua Beach Bar, where you can enjoy drinks, snacks, swim and relax on the sunbeds.

  • Day 7: Banana Beach and Banana Beach Bar
    10 minutes (4.4km) from Kanapitsa Bay

    Experience the lively and fun atmosphere at Banana Beach, Skiathos' largest beach. Rent a sunbed and indulge in water sports or simply relax and watch the people go by. The beach's famous Banana Beach Bar is an excellent spot for an expertly made cocktail, great food, music, and dancing.

  • Day 8: Tasting Local Cuisine and Shopping in Skiathos Town
    15 minutes (6.1km) from Banana Beach

    Take a break from the beach and head down to Skiathos Town for some shopping and tasting of local cuisine. Wander around the narrow, picturesque streets, buy some souvenirs, and taste authentic Greek food at one of the numerous restaurants in the area. Do not miss the traditional Greek meze, gyros, and fresh seafood.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Koukounaries Beach (all day, free)
  • Bourtzi Beach and Castle (3 hours, €10-€15/person)
  • Skiathos Old Port (2-3 hours, €15/person for boat tour)
  • Lalaria Beach and Kastro Fortress (5 hours, €30/person for boat tour)
  • Evangelistria Monastery and Asselinos Beach (4 hours, €10/person for entrance fee)
  • Kanapitsa Bay and Kahlua Beach Bar (4 hours, €15/person for drinks and snacks)
  • Banana Beach and Banana Beach Bar (all day, free)
  • Tasting Local Cuisine and Shopping in Skiathos Town (3 hours, €20-€30/person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €100-€120/person

Transportation

Consider renting a car or scooter to explore the island quickly and comfortably. Public transportation is available but can be chaotic in high season. Taxis can be found in Skiathos Town, but it is recommended to negotiate the price before the journey. Buses and taxis are available, but check the schedules, as they can be unpredictable.

The estimated cost per day for a car rental is €30-€45, while a scooter rental costs €20-€30/day. A one-way taxi ride from the airport to Skiathos Town costs €15-€20, and the bus fare from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries Beach is €2.50/person.

Useful Tips

If you have additional days, visit the nearby islands of Skopelos and Alonissos by taking a comfortable day cruise from Skiathos Port. Alternatively, explore more beaches of Skiathos such as Mandraki, Aselinos, Agia Paraskevi, and Megali Ammos. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and water shoes to help protect your feet from rocky beaches, pebbles, and hot sand.

If you have less time, spend one or two full days on the most popular beaches such as Koukounaries, Banana, and Bourtzi Beach.

Airports

Skiathos International Airport (JSI) is located in the northwest of the island, approximately two kilometers from Skiathos Town. The airport offers domestic and international flights throughout the year.

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