Much of Skiathos' beauty can't be fully appreciated on terra firma. Thankfully, round-the-island boat cruises offer sightseeing opportunities from a different perspective. See the picture-perfect Lalária Beach with its famous Trýpia Pétra rock-arch, and the island's original pirate-resistant settlement Kástro, which was fortified during the 16th century.

Strolling past the gardened houses, through the little plazas of Tris Ierárhes and Ágia Triáda, and into the churches of Skiathos Town will utterly charm you. Duck into the local shops and museums, like the Galerie Varsakis antique shop, which can be found on the Tris Ierárhes plaza, and discover this self-styled museum of textiles and Greek rural impedimenta.

The town of Skopelos has been honoured by the Greeks as a Traditional Settlement of outstanding Beauty. The residents here have maintained the same traditional style for generations, and this history can be felt as you walk down the cobbled streets.