Skiathos Car Hire

Guide to Skiathos

Geography

Located in the northwest Aegean Sea, Skiathos is a tiny island in Greece. It is the most western island in the Northern Sporades group and lies east of the Pelion peninsula in Magnesia, and west of Skopelos. Skiathos is also the name of the island's largest city and it’s located on the eastern coast. Kalyvia, Troullos, Xanemos, Koukounaries, and Achladias are the other major villages.

Climate in Skiathos

As a Greek island in the Northern Sporades archipelago, Skiathos has an intermediate Mediterranean climate, with wet winters followed by bright and sunny summers. Throughout the year, the daily average temperature varies from 6℃ in January to 23.5℃ in July and August. The island's proximity to the mainland means that it is susceptible to cold air outbreaks in the winter, as well as rain and thunderstorms that originate on the mainland in the spring and summer.

Culture

The island had a small part in the Persian Wars. The Persian king Xerxes' navy was seriously wrecked by a storm in 480 BC off the Skiathos coast. That prevented the Persians from attacking the mainland and giving food to the 300 Spartans guarding the pass at Thermopylae. The Persian navy was beaten at Artemisium and then annihilated a year later at Salamis.

Things to do in Skiathos

Explore the Evangelistria monastery

Since its construction in 1794, the Evangelistria monastery has provided a refuge for Greek rebels throughout the last years of Ottoman rule. A group of Greek revolutionaries convened here in 1807 to swear an oath of independence using a predecessor to today's Greek national flag, which bears a white cross on sky blue. The Katholikon (main church) has icons from the 1600s and 1700s, as well as a museum with vestments, manuscripts, and wooden and silver crosses. In addition, for history aficionados, the loom that was used to weave the first Greek flag is a must-see.

Stroll through the charming old town

There's a lot to see in the old town of Chora, so allow at least an hour or two. To start, the Venetian-built Bourtzi Fortress on an islet on the harbour’s east shore gives lovely views of the historic port from its pine-shaded terraces. The quays, which are flanked by crystal-clear water, are lined with harbourfront restaurants and cafés. Then there's the historic town's maze of small alleyways and spiral stairs to contend with. They're surrounded by one-of-a-kind stores, galleries, and restaurants with tables set under bougainvillaea blooms, all on black marble.

Relax on a sublime beach

Lalaria Beach is a bit difficult to reach but absolutely worth it for its stunning blue waters. There is a natural arch and tunnels on the east side of the cliffs, giving the beach a perfect spot to unwind. Because there is no beach bar in sight, bring a pair of swim shoes, a hat, and a bottle of water. The waves churn up the white silt in the water, giving it a clear shine in the sun. Even if they come in great numbers during the summer months, Lalaria Beach can accommodate all of the sunbathers who arrive by boat.

Eating out in Skiathos

The island's eating choices are practically limitless, ranging from traditional family-run pubs to high-end restaurants with sun-drenched patios. If you're searching for a casual neighbourhood diner, Under the Pine Tree should be at the top of your list. This laid-back eatery is only a short walk from the popular Koukounaries Beach and their gyros and souvlaki are incredible.

The Windmill, built in 1880, is one of Skiathos' oldest buildings. It was a working mill until 1946, and then it became a restaurant in the 1990s. It has one of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands that you will ever see in a restaurant. As a result, The Windmill is the place to be if you want to celebrate a special occasion. Mesogia Taverna is approximately 100 years old, and the flavour reflects that. Try their baked feta, which is one of their most popular menu items.

Skiathos Transport

Airport

Skiathos' "Alexandros Papadiamantis" airport is roughly 2 kilometres from the city on the island's northeast coast. It takes roughly an hour and a half to get there from either Athens or Thessaloniki via plane.

Getting around Skiathos

During the peak season, a bus service operates every 20 minutes between Skiathos Town and Koukounaries along the main route. The buses are extremely busy towards the end of the day when visitors are returning from Koukounaries Beach. Skiathos also has a number of taxi providers. Many visitors also opt to hire a car to reach secluded beaches and enjoy the gorgeous scenery at their own pace.

Top Tips when hiring a car in Skiathos

● A big number of our users encountered rental cars in Skiathos for less than £34 per day.

● Booking your rental car in Skiathos in advance even if it's by at least 1 day before your trip ensures you'll get cheap car hire deals.

● Getting your hire car from a car rental company in Skiathos Airport is much cheaper than other car hire locations.

● Even the oldest car rental companies such as Autounion car rental and Alma Car can be found inside the Airport's terminal and their car hire prices are very competitive.

● Another popular car hire location is the city centre but the car hire companies there offer less options and are usually more expensive. Several car rentals can also be found at opposite central bus station.

● Economy class mini car vehicles in Skiathos are the most popular and cheapest vehicles to pick from.

● Once you have your Skiathos car hire you should begin exploring the beautiful island, beginning from Skiathos Port and along the east coast, until you reach the most gorgeous remote beaches.

● Before picking up your Skiathos car hire, make sure to check all the details of the agreement carefully such as unlimited mileage, pick up date, drop off date, car types and more.