Best Skyros Travel Guide for 2025 [What to See, Do & Know Before You Go]
The Beaches, Food, and Culture of Greece’s Best Kept Secret
Legend has it, Achilles hid on Skyros before the Trojan War. Walk through the same streets where history blends with myth.
Skyros
A few years ago, Maria and I decided we wanted to spend time on a Greek island largely untouched by mass tourism—a difficult feat given the growing popularity of Greek island holidays and “Instagram” holidays. We found flights on offer to Skyros and booked them immediately, without doing much research. To our pleasant surprise, once we began looking into it, Skyros turned out to be a true treasure for anyone lucky enough to be captured by its mystical allure, close proximity to Athens, and timeless feel.
An abundant number of Greek islands are quickly being discovered by visitors keen to enjoy an untouched corner of Greece’s idyllic atmosphere and rich culture, yet a few remain practically unscathed by international tourism. One of these is the unspoiled island of Skyros, a rather large island located in the southern Sporades. Skyros is suspended in time, offering sun-soaked isolation, rare Skyrian horses, a whitewashed Cycladic-style main town, and a landscape steeped in the fine line between myth and reality.
Skyrian horses at Mouries Farm, a tranquil, family-run farm dedicated to preserving the rare breed, offers visitors a chance to connect with these remarkable animals in the heart of Skyros' natural beauty.
An abundant number of Greek islands are quickly being discovered by visitors keen to enjoy an untouched corner of Greece’s idyllic atmosphere and rich culture, yet a few remain practically unscathed by international tourism. One of these is the unspoiled island of Skyros, a rather large island located in the southern Sporades. Skyros is suspended in time, offering sun-soaked isolation, rare Skyrian horses, a whitewashed Cycladic-style main town, and a landscape steeped in the fine line between myth and reality.
In ancient times, Skyros was renowned for its marble and gold, supplying Athens with its natural resources. Mythology tells us it’s where Odysseus and Achilles launched their journey to Troy, and where Theseus began his quest to face the Minotaur. Today, Skyros remains one of the most understated gems among the Greek islands—which may be a good thing.
While the Sporades draw fewer visitors than the Cyclades or Dodecanese, Skyros’ neighbours Skiathos and Skopelos have been swept up by the 'Mamma Mia' effect. Travellers flock to relive their own Donna Sheridan moments, basking on azure shores and enjoying dreamy nights at seaside taverns. Unlike many islands that have succumbed to mass tourism, Skyros has remained a nostalgic reminder of Maria’s childhood holidays—a rare, unspoiled paradise.
SKYROS MUSTS
UNWIND - at Kavos Lounge Bar with a drink in hand, impressive sunset views, and a surprise show from incoming ships.
DISCOVER - Diatripti Cave with a small group excursion, also taking in the wild beauty of Skyros’ azure blue Aegean shores.
SAVOUR - Astakomakaronada (Greek lobster spaghetti) at Stelios Fish Tavern.
WANDER - Skyros Castle dating back to the Byzantine era, taking in the sweeping, panoramic views surrounding the island.
TAKE HOME - Skyrian ceramics, renowned for their distinctive blue-and-white patterns and nature-inspired motifs, reflecting the island’s artistic heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
RECHARGE - Pefkos Beach, a quieter retreat with crystalline waters and lush pine tree surroundings. Hence, the name Pefko, the Greek word for pine.
The Best Things to Do in Skyros
Visit Skyros’ Best Beaches
For a convenient seaside day near Skyros' largest resort town, housing the majority of hotels and resorts, Molos, the island's longest sandy stretch, is ideal. With pristine emerald waters and postcard-worthy Byzantine Castle views, this mile-long paradise has it all. You'll also find laid-back beach bars and local taverns, many with comfortable lounge chairs lining the sand while serving exquisite dishes at a fraction of other islands' prices.
While difficult to access, Agalipa Beach, arguably Skyros' most scenic stretch, is a mesmerising combination of seclusion and striking contrasts. Here, jewel-toned blue waters set against multi-hued red stone formations create a stunning portrait of Skyros’ natural beauty. For those eager to reach this seaside marvel quickly, your best bet is to catch a local water taxi from the nearby Kyra Panagia beach. Alternatively, a lush, 30-minute hike through the forest, begins at Agios Petros Beach.
Get Lost in Skyros’ Chora and History
Balanced valiantly on a mountain above the sea, Skyros’ Chora, or main town, is a delight. During the day, Chora presents a classic Greek island scene, with independent shops and traditional homes dating back to the 1300s lining the town’s main street, Agora. Here, locals come and go, exchanging pleasantries and watching another day take its turn. As night falls, Chora transforms into a friendly gathering spot for locals and visitors, with taverns and cafés spilling into the streets.
Easily the island’s most recognisable feature, the imposing Castle of Skyros dramatically crowns the town of Chora. Originally built by the Venetians in the 13th century and later fortified by the Byzantines and Ottomans, the castle offers a glimpse into Skyros’ storied past. It can be reached by meandering through the town’s winding alleys, which become progressively narrower as you ascend, due to their strategic defense design. Midway to the castle, you’ll encounter one of the most breathtaking sunset views of the island at the unexpected Brooke Square, named after the late English poet, Rupert Brooke, whose final wish was to be buried on Skyros.
Brook's Statue, Skyros Island. Photo by WickedClick.
Indulge in Traditional Skyrian Foods
The gastronomy of Skyros reflects the island’s diverse soil from the contrasting landscape on both sides of Skyros, with dense forests and agriculture in the north and pastures in the south. Typical traditional foods in Skyros range from local lobster spaghetti to sweets dripping with Skyrian pine honey. A must-try is the oil pie, quite literally its namesake, with various fillings such as rice, local seasonal greens, and the crown jewel of the Skyros’ dairy: xinotyri, a soft sour cheese uniquely produced with sheep and goat milk.
Lobster spaghetti in Skyros is a deliciously simple dish, with tender lobster and perfectly cooked pasta, all brought together by the island's fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Where to Eat in Skyros
Ammos Veranda Restaurant
Magazia, Skyros 340 07
Enjoy the perfect balance of contemporary and traditional at Ammos Hotel’s in-house restaurant, Ammos Veranda. Head up to the rooftop terrace at night to savour local lobster spaghetti, farm-to-table ingredients, and local Skyrian wines while taking in the starlit, Skyros Castle.
O Pappous Ke Ego
Skyros 340 07
Pappous Kai Ego is a traditional Skyrian restaurant in the heart of Chora serving tapas-style dishes from friendly staff, while surrounded by the contagious energy of Skyros’ main town. Plan to arrive early or make a reservation, as the restaurant is small and can only accommodate a small capacity.
Plaza
Skyros 340 07
During our time in Skyros, we had the pleasure of meeting Anna, a warm-hearted local who runs Plaza, a cosy small plates restaurant in the heart of Skyros’ chora. Anna is the sole chef, and her passion for both the restaurant and her guests is undeniable. The meal was nothing short of exceptional, featuring local delights like meatballs, ladopita (Skyrian oil pie), and zucchini fritters. After indulging in these incredible dishes, we shared an unforgettable conversation with Anna. We can’t wait to return and enjoy her hospitality and amazing food again.
With lovely Anna from Plaza
Where to Stay in Skyros
ALERÓ
Vina 340 07, Greece
Wake up to seaside sounds and sights at ALERÓ, a boutique hotel along the shores of Vina Beach. The hotel features exhibits from local artists, offering guests a deeper glimpse into the heart of Skyros. ALERÓ is also host to Amerissa, a restaurant by Michelin-starred chef, Angelos Lantos featuring a menu that captures the soul and history of Skyros. For more information and bookings, visit here.
Tzanis Resort
Molos, 34007, Greece
Nestled in the family-friendly resort town of Molos, Tzanis Resort presents a straightforward, bright, and airy ambiance, coupled with possibly some of the best hospitality I’ve witnessed in Greece. With an upscale yet unpretentious atmosphere, it serves as the perfect retreat to rest your head and unwind after a day of exploration. For more information and bookings, visit here.
How to Get to Skyros
BY AIR
Skyros is accessible by air through the Skyros Island National Airport (SKU), which receives seasonal flights from Athens. The flight takes around 50 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travellers looking to reach the island directly.
BY FERRY/CAR
For those who prefer a scenic route, you can take a ferry from the port of Kymi on the mainland, which operates year-round. The ferry journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, and from the port in Skyros, it’s just a short drive to the island’s main attractions. Alternatively, you can combine a ferry trip with a drive for a more flexible travel experience.
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Skyros at your own pace, especially if you want to reach the island’s hidden beaches and charming villages. Book your car rental with Discover Cars for competitive rates and great service.
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