In the 14th century, the inhabitants abandoned the coast and built a fortified town on a dramatic cliff. Kastro was home to 300 houses and 22 churches, serving as the island's capital for four centuries. Today only three churches survive, along with the stone gate and views across the northern Aegean. Access by dirt road from the north or by boat from the old port.
Set in a pine forest in the centre of the island, this monastery holds a special place in Greek history: in 1807, the first Greek flag was raised here before the War of Independence. The church interior is beautifully preserved, and the forest walk to reach it is one of the best short hikes on the island.
Alexandros Papadiamantis — the father of modern Greek literature — was born here. His two-room stone house is preserved with original furniture, his writing desk, and first editions. A 20-minute visit, almost free of charge, and deeply moving.
A 50-minute ferry ride takes you to Skopelos, where the 2008 film Mamma Mia! was shot. The Agios Ioannis chapel on the cliff (203 steps up) is genuinely spectacular. Skopelos Town is more architecturally interesting than Skiathos Town.
A small Venetian fortress on a wooded peninsula, 5 minutes' walk from the harbour. Almost no one visits it. Free, open, with pine trees inside the walls, a small open-air theatre, and one of the best views of the old town. Go at sunset.
Renting a scooter (€20–30/day) and spending half a day on the north coast is the most rewarding independent activity. The unpaved road passes through pine forest with views of the uninhabited northern Sporades. Beaches like Kehria and Eleni are quiet, raw, and genuinely remote-feeling.
