Why you should visit the Sporade Islands in Greece
When people think of Greek islands, they often picture Santorini’s sunsets or Mykonos’ wild nightlife, but the Sporades Islands—Skopelos and Skiathos—offer an entirely different kind of experience. Known for their lush greenery, white pebble beaches, and charming towns, these islands are perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. Whether you’re into relaxing by the sea, exploring quiet enclaves, or indulging in authentic Greek food, Skopelos and Skiathos strike a perfect balance between adventure and tranquility.
Skopelos: Your Very Own Mamma Mia! Adventure
Skopelos is the kind of island that feels like you are on a movie set- and in some spots you are! With its pine-covered hills rolling down to sparkling waters, it’s one of the greenest islands in Greece and a dream for nature lovers. Compared to Greece’s more rugged islands, Skopelos offers a refreshing change of scenery.
Explore the charming Skopelos Town, where cobblestone streets wind through red-roofed houses and blue-windowed courtyards. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and you’ll find plenty of family-owned tavernas serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
No visit to Skopelos is complete without hitting the beaches. Kastani Beach and Agios Ioannis (the Mamma Mia! wedding church) are must-visits for their natural beauty and cinematic fame. If you’re a fan of the movie, hop on a Mamma Mia! tour to see where the magic happened, from secluded beaches to the iconic church on a hill. Trust me, the turquoise waters and lush surroundings make these spots feel like they’re straight out of a dream.
Skiathos: Beaches, Boats, and Bites
Skiathos is the livelier cousin of Skopelos, offering a perfect mix of stunning beaches, boat adventures, and delicious food. While I didn’t dive into the island’s nightlife (I was in high school and traveling with my family), it’s clear that Skiathos has a bit more of a party scene than Skopelos, though still much more laid-back compared to places like Mykonos.
Skiathos is also known for its beautiful beaches. Lalaria Beach, with its unique white pebbles and dramatic cliffs, is a must-see. The beach is only accessible by boat, making the trip there all the more adventurous. For a more relaxed vibe, head to one of the quieter beaches on the island like Vromolimnos, where you can spend your day soaking up the sun in peace.
And don’t forget about the food! A trip to Skiathos wouldn’t be complete without trying a frappé coffee (the best-tasting coffee that will leave you buzzing), or enjoying fresh seafood with a view of the sea. Skiathos Town is full of charming cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in local flavors and people-watch.
Spend a Day in Athens
If you’re passing through Athens, I recommend spending 24 hours there to hit the major attractions like the Acropolis and Parthenon. Athens is incredible, but it’s also bustling and chaotic. After soaking in the highlights, you’ll be ready to escape to the slower-paced charm of the Sporades Islands.
Why Visit?
Skopelos and Skiathos are lush, vibrant, and brimming with character. They offer a unique escape from the rocky, arid landscapes typical of many Greek islands. Skopelos provides tranquility and natural beauty, while Skiathos balances liveliness with breathtaking beaches.
Getting Around the islands: Getting around Skopelos and Skiathos is a breeze. The islands have a reliable and inexpensive bus system that takes you from the main town on both islands to all the major beaches. No need for a rental car—just hop on the bus and enjoy the ride to your next destination. Literally a game changer!
Getting to the islands: There are 2 different routes that you can take to get to the Sporades, both with their perks. The cheaper way to get to the Sporades is to fly to Athens, then take a bus/ferry combo totaling about 7 hours in travel time. While this does take up a good portion of your day, is it significantly cheaper. The quicker option, is to fly from Athens to Skiathos on a puddle-jumper. If you have more money to spend and less time to waste, I would suggest the flight option, but the ferry allows you to admire the country from the water!
Whether you’re exploring iconic Mamma Mia! filming locations, lounging on secluded beaches, or indulging in local cuisine, these islands promise unforgettable memories. Skip the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini and head to the Sporades for an authentic Greek adventure.
