Skopelos (town) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Skopelos town. Read on for a week-long itinerary, hiking/biking routes, and local culture and customs.


Skopelos is a beautiful town located in the Sporades Islands in Greece. It is popular among tourists for its stunning natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant food scene. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all the popular landmarks, attractions, and activities you can enjoy during your visit to Skopelos town.

Introduction to Skopelos (town)

Skopelos town is the capital and largest town of the island of Skopelos. It is a picturesque town that attracts visitors with its traditional architecture, narrow winding streets, and attractive waterfront promenade. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and pristine beaches, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Skopelos (town)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Panagitsa of Pyrgos: This is an old chapel located on the outskirts of Skopelos town. It is famous for its beautiful wall paintings and frescoes that depict scenes from the New Testament.
  • Folklore Museum: This museum showcases the traditional lifestyles and culture of Skopelos. Visitors can see a wide range of exhibits, including traditional costumes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and more.
  • Agios Athanasios Church: This ancient church is located at the highest point in Skopelos town and offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of Skopelos (town): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kastani Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Skopelos town known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.
  • Stafilos Beach: This is another beautiful beach located just a few kilometers from Skopelos town. The beach is surrounded by green hills and pine trees, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Skopelos Trails: Skopelos is known for its numerous hiking and biking trails that pass through picturesque forests, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skopelos (town)

  • Mount Palouki: This is the highest mountain in Skopelos island, and visitors can take a hike to the summit for panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
  • Old Klima: This is an ancient trail that connects Skopelos town with the old village of Klima. The trail passes through some of the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes, including lush forests, olive groves, and gorges.

Best Things to Do in Skopelos (town): Activities and Tours

  • Island Tour: Visitors can take a guided island tour to explore the beauty and culture of Skopelos island. The tour will take you to the island’s most popular attractions, including the churches, beaches, and museums.
  • Watersports: Skopelos town is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can try various water activities here, including snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Skopelos (town)

Day 1: Explore Skopelos town and visit the Agios Athanasios Church.

Day 2: Take a hike to Mount Palouki and enjoy the panoramic views of the island.

Day 3: Spend the day at Kastani Beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.

Day 4: Take a guided island tour and visit the churches, beaches, and museums of Skopelos.

Day 5: Visit the Folklore Museum and learn about the traditional lifestyles and culture of Skopelos.

Day 6: Explore the Old Klima hiking trail and enjoy the natural beauty of Skopelos island.

Day 7: Spend the day at Stafilos Beach and enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Skopelos (town)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stuffed Tomatoes and Peppers: This is a local favorite dish made of fresh vegetables stuffed with rice and herbs.
  • Seafood Platter: Skopelos island is famous for its abundant seafood, and visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes here.

Local Beverages

  • Skitza: This is a traditional grape-based spirit that is popular among locals and visitors alike.
  • Sour Cherry Liqueur: This is a delicious liqueur made from locally grown sour cherries.

Where to Stay in Skopelos (town): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Adrina Beach Hotel: This is a popular beachfront hotel that offers luxurious accommodation for visitors.
  • Blue Green Bay: This is another popular hotel located just a few kilometers from Skopelos town. The hotel offers spacious rooms and stunning views of the sea.

What to Buy in Skopelos (town): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Skopelos island is famous for its high-quality olive oil, which is popular among locals and visitors alike.
  • Honey: Skopelos is home to a variety of wildflowers, and the honey produced here is famous for its unique taste and aroma.

Local Culture and Customs of Skopelos (town)

Skopelos island has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditional festivals and celebrations. Visitors can witness the locals celebrating various cultural events throughout the year, including the Panagitsa festival, the Skopelos carnival, and the Agios Riginos festival.

Best Time to Visit Skopelos (town)

The best time to visit Skopelos town is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm and ideal for swimming and water activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skopelos (town)

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in churches and other religious sites.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Skopelos (town)

Skopelos town is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, visitors should be cautious of pickpockets and keep their belongings safe at all times. It is also important to obey traffic rules and regulations when driving or biking on the island.

Health in Skopelos (town)

Skopelos has a well-established healthcare system that offers excellent medical services to visitors. There are also several pharmacies on the island that offer prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Getting to Skopelos (town): Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Flights: The nearest airport to Skopelos town is the Skiathos Island National Airport, which is located approximately 30 minutes away by boat.
  • Ferries: Skopelos town is well-connected to other islands and mainland Greece through regular ferry services.
  • Buses: There are regular bus services that connect Skopelos town to other parts of the island.

Airports Near Skopelos (town)

  • Skiathos Island National Airport

Bus Stations Near Skopelos (town)

  • Skopelos Town Bus Station

Other Options

  • Taxis and rental cars are also available on the island.

How to Get Around in Skopelos (town)

Visitors can explore Skopelos town and the surrounding areas by using the public transport system, which includes buses, taxis, and rental cars and bikes. Visitors can also explore the island by walking or hiking on its numerous trails and paths.

Where to Go Next from Skopelos (town): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alonissos Island: This beautiful island is just a short boat ride away from Skopelos and offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Skiathos Island: Skiathos is another popular island destination that is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exciting water sports.
  • Pelion Peninsula: Pelion is a charming Greek peninsula located on the mainland and is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.

Conclusion

Skopelos town is a destination that has something to offer for everyone. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s charm and serenity. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to Skopelos town and has inspired you to explore all the island has to offer.