Lykkers, have you ever longed to escape to an island where sapphire bays meet pine-covered hills, life slows down, and authenticity outweighs crowds?
That's Skopelos, the jewel of the Northern Sporades chain. Unlike Santorini or Mykonos, Skopelos has no airport, keeping it calm and relatively untouched.
Famous for serving as the stage for Mamma Mia, this island offers much more than film nostalgia: pristine beaches, scenic hikes, and hidden cultural gems. Here's your detailed guide with tips, prices, and practical info to plan a perfect visit.
Kastani Beach
Kastani Beach became world-famous when it appeared in Mamma Mia. Today, it's a mix of lively and scenic charm. Sun loungers and umbrellas cost around €12–15 for two for the day. Kayak or paddleboard rentals are also available from nearby huts, averaging €15–20 per hour.
Panagitsa of Pyrgos
Set dramatically on a cliff above Skopelos town, Panagitsa of Pyrgos is one of the island's most photographed chapels. Entry is free, but be ready for a short climb of steps. Afternoons are best for panoramic sea views, while evenings provide magical photos thanks to the chapel lights. Combine your visit with a waterfront meal nearby, with restaurant prices for a good dinner averaging €15–20 per person.
Panormos Beach
This beach is ideal for families — calm, pebbly waters without waves, plus easy parking and nearby cafés. Sunbeds cost €8–10 per pair, and iced coffees or snacks are readily available for €3–4. Water sports rentals (kayaks or pedal boats) are about €15–€25 per session.
Suggested Tour: A guided island hike from Skopelos town to Panormos costs around €35–45 per person, including local guide services.
Milia Beach
A quieter alternative to Kastani, Milia Beach is spacious and divided naturally into two bays. Umbrella rentals are approximately €10 for the day. Snorkel sets or fins can often be rented from stands for around €10 per set. With its clear view of Dasia islet, Milia is popular with couples or solo travelers looking to unwind without heavy crowds.
Agios Ioannis
This dramatic beach is located beneath the cliffside chapel of Agios Ioannis. The small beach means sunbeds are limited, so expect to pay €10–12 for a set or bring your own towel. The climb to the chapel involves about 100 steps; entry is free and the view is priceless. Remember, waves here are stronger, so stick to shallow waters if you're inexperienced.
Sendoukia Pirate Graves
Legends say pirates buried treasure here centuries ago. A hike to the Sendoukia Graves takes 2–3 hours round-trip, so wear sturdy footwear and carry water (bottled water costs €1–1.50 at shops before your climb). Guided hiking tours range from €40–50 and often include stories about the pirate myths, as well as transfers from Skopelos town.
Hovolo Beach
Remote and peaceful, Hovolo Beach requires a short rocky walk to access, meaning fewer crowds and a truly serene vibe. As there are no organized beach rentals, it's best to bring your own umbrella (available to buy in town for €15–20). A taxi ride from Skopelos town to Hovolo costs around €15–20 each way, although buses are also available in summer for under €3.
Glossa Port
Glossa, Skopelos's second port town, is atmospheric and quieter than the main town. Prices in the waterfront tavernas are slightly cheaper, with a filling seafood meal averaging around €12–18 per person. This is the place to enjoy sunset views over the bay with a calm local vibe.
Monastery of Evangelistria
Just 4 km from Skopelos town, the Evangelistria Monastery offers sweeping views and houses 18th-century icons. Entrance is free, though donations are appreciated. Walking or cycling tours that include the monastery cost around €30–40 and often pair the visit with scenic overlooks of the Aegean.
Vakratsa House Museum
For a cultural stop, visit the Vakratsa House Museum in Skopelos town. Tickets cost €3–4, and exhibits showcase 19th-century furnishings, costumes, embroidery, and tools of daily life. Allow 30–45 minutes for a visit to appreciate local aristocratic life from that era.
Where to Stay
Budget Stay: Smile Stella Studios – Self-catering rooms with Wi-Fi from €22–24 per night.
Mid-Range Pick: Aegean Wave Hotel in Loutraki – Rooms with a sea view and breakfast included, starting around €90–110 per night.
Luxury Option: Stafylos Suites & Boutique Hotel – Pool with Aegean views; suites from €1,680 per night, with breakfast €10 extra.
Food & Dining Costs
Meals in Skopelos are affordable compared to other islands.
Breakfast/coffee: €4–7
Casual Taverna meal: €12–18 per person
Seafood dish: €15–22
Three-course dinner at luxury restaurants: €30–40 per person
Traveling to Skopelos
Flights from London: EasyJet Gatwick–Thessaloniki from €53, Ryanair Stansted–Thessaloniki from €83.
Ferry Thessaloniki–Skopelos: Hellenic Seaways, €35–40 one way, duration about 3 hours 30 minutes.
Local transport: Buses between main beaches are inexpensive at €2–3, while taxis average €1 per km. For flexibility, renting a scooter (from €20–25 per day) or car (around €35–50 per day) is recommended.
Conclusion
Skopelos is a blend of cinematic fame and authentic island charm — with turquoise bays, timeless monasteries, scenic hikes, and warm villages. Now, with clear guidance on costs, tours, and transport, your escape there can be planned stress-free. Friends, if you were visiting Skopelos tomorrow, would you chase a legendary hike to pirate graves, or spend the day unwinding at turquoise Milia Beach?
