SkyrosSporades Islands · Greece

All About Skyros

Skyros is an island that keeps on giving; a natural haven of traditional culture and beautiful seascapes. Lying in the center of the Aegean Sea, northeast of Athens, Skyros is the largest island of the Sporades group. With a small population of less than 3000, the island has a relaxing, laid-back, and quiet ambiance.

While other islands in the area have been subject to lots of attention from international tourism, Skyros remains a relatively untapped source of excitement. Consequently, it’s a perfect destination for experiencing Greece just like the locals do. Add this lovely island to your bucket list and discover its many pristine beaches, fascinating historical sites, and welcoming atmosphere.

Given its central location in the heart of the Greek islands, Skyros has a long and interesting history. Four thousand years ago, it was known as ‘the Island of Magnetes’, named after an ancient tribe mentioned in Homer’s Iliad. Mythology states that it was once home to Achilles who sought refuge in Skyros before heading to Troy. Since then, the island has been subject to many an invading empire, with Venetian and Byzantine influences still apparent in its lasting architecture. The island is lined with classic whitewashed houses that creep up verdant mountains, all looking out at the endless blue of the Aegean.
 
Nature blends seamlessly with the many villages in Skyros, the surrounding areas being home to various species of native wildlife. Discover your secret slice of the Greek islands on Skyros; a place of natural wonders and timeless charm.
 

Routes and Ferries to Skyros

When you book your ferry tickets to Skyros with Ferryscanner, you can explore the many wonders of this charming island that are just waiting to be discovered. When you arrange your ferry tickets to Skyros, you can depart from the nearby island of Alonissos and enjoy a 1.5 hr journey. Alternatively, secure your ferry tickets to Skyros from the island of Skopelos (5 hrs, depending on the season).

If you’re coming from Athens, you can book ferry tickets to depart from the port of Kymi in Evia for a 2.5-hour journey with the Skyros Shipping Company. Kymi itself can be reached by road after a 3.5-hour drive from Athens. Skyros also has a regional airport on the northside of the island that serves domestic flights from Athens International Airport and Thessaloniki Airport ‘Makedonia’.
 

Port of Skyros

The main port of Skyros can be found on the eastern side of the island, located in the popular fishing village of Linaria. The Linaria Port connects Skyros to mainland Greece and the surrounding Sporades islands. In the summer season, Linaria is a thriving seaside town with a wide range of dining and drinking options. Only a 12-minute drive away from Skyros Town, Linaria is an easily accessible first port of call for your adventures on the island.
 

Capital & Villages

With an intimate network of traditional towns and villages, Skyros has everything you’d want from a quintessential Greek island. Enjoy your time exploring these enchanting streets, taking in the vibes of a wonderfully untouched destination.

Skyros Town

Skyros Town, or Chora to the locals, is the crowning glory of the island. Whitewashed houses twist up a tall mountain coated with verdant green fields and topped by an imposing Byzantine castle. Here, you’ll find most of the key tourist attractions and facilities for your stay.

Fragrant lavender and aromatic herbs line the winding alleyways, all of which are dotted with authentic taverns, restaurants, and intriguing museums highlighting the island’s history. Don’t miss a visit to the Kastro, where the church of Agios Georgios lies guarded by a statue of a golden lion. At night, Chora comes alive with a solid array of bars and lounges where you can sip on a refreshing cocktail while gazing out at panoramic views of the island.

Magazia

While connected to Chora, Magazia is a distinct area with its own characteristics and energy. Walk down from the buzz of Chora and enter the village of Magazia, greeted by its long sandy bay with lots of tourist facilities. The waters can get somewhat choppy due to oncoming sea traffic, but that doesn’t stop Magazia from being a local favorite for an easy-going day trip to the beach. After an evening in Chora, head down to Magazia for starlit cocktails and the fresh sea breeze.

Linaria

While known as the main port town of Skyros, Linaria is worth more than just a brief stop-off in transit. A classic Greek fishing village, the intimate cove has gentle waters and a relaxing atmosphere. Plenty of restaurants line the port, while the nearby beach of Acherounes lies just around the bay. Enjoy seaside dining and a taste of some freshly caught seafood, all escorted by the sound of waves gently lapping on the small fishing boats.

Atsista

Sitting only 18 km away from Chora is Atsista, a bayside village known for its relaxing energy and secluded coves. Easily accessible along the island’s well-connected roads, Atsista is surrounded by waving hills of dense pine forest. The seafood here is much sought after, but Atsista is a particularly good venture for an activity-filled day. Local companies run scuba-diving, snorkeling, and yoga workshops, all within the village’s whitewashed houses and stunning surrounding area.

Nyfi

The path to Nyfi is a path less trodden, but it’s worth the 18 km drive from Chora for this truly authentic village. There are few accommodation options, so get in quick if you want to utilize this haven as a portal to the unexplored wonders of south Skyros. The beach there is pristine, but you can also make your way along the coast to the rough and rugged coves that remain unspoiled by any developments. Dine out in a local tavern, wander through the miniature streets, and get a feel of Skyros for the Skyriots.
 

Best Beaches

With long swathes of the Aegean coastline, Skyros is a haven for pristine unexplored beaches. The dramatic seascape creates lots of natural caves and coves, while the undeveloped character of the island means there’s plenty of options for those seeking wild nature. Alternatively, you’ll also find beaches with all the usual tourist facilities, a variety of dining options, and accommodation fit for the whole family.

Magazia

Magazia Beach is the first beach you’ll see from Chora. Located in its eponymous village, Magazia is well developed and filled with sunbeds, restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy being right in the heart of the action, sampling some fresh summer beverages, and swimming in the crystal clear waters that surround Skyros.

Molos Beach

Just 4km away from Chora is Molos Beach, one of the most popular destinations in Skyros. Organized, developed, and complete with a large range of dining and drinking options, Molos is loved for its golden sands and refreshing waters. It’s perfect for a family outing, and there’s an abundance of caves around the coastline worth exploring. Make sure to explore the chapel of Agios Nikolaos on the seaside.

Agios Fokas Beach

Agios Fokas beach is a long stretch of white sand and turquoise water 13 km away from Chora. While slightly difficult to get to, it’s well worth it for the long stretch of beach largely untouched by tourists. You’ll find a tavern selling traditional treats and refreshments, as well as a rustic chapel on the edge of the coastline looking out onto the Aegean.

Aspous Beach

Arguably one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Aspous Beach lies only 5km away from Chora on a long stretch of golden sands. The shallow waters are perfect for paddling, and large pine trees make for excellent shade from the beaming summer sun. Make sure to bring your own supplies as there’s little in the way for refreshments at this secluded cove.

Acherounes Beach

Close to the village of Linaria, and around 13km south of Chora, Acherounes is a perfect beach for a family-friendly day at the seaside. The golden sands and small pebbles are perfect for relaxing on, the water is crystal clear and unspoiled, and a host of tourist amenities ensure a comfortable and carefree visit. Make sure to sample some seafood from one of the restaurants, pairing it with a refreshing glass of local wine.
 

Transportation Around Skyros

Despite being the least developed of the Sporades island chain, Skyros is well-connected by a solid public transport network. A local KTEL bus line connects Chora to most of the island’s beaches and villages. Alternatively, you can hire cars, motorbikes, and quad bikes from rental outlets in the island’s capital. Bicycles are also a great idea, but make sure you’re prepared for some steep uphill rides across the island’s many mountains. Taxis run throughout the island and can easily be found at a taxi rank or booked in advance via phone.