The word Sporades means “scattered,” perfectly describing these islands’ layout off the mainland coast. Each island is ringed by emerald waters and cloaked in Aleppo pines, offering a more laid-back, green alternative to the crowded Cyclades. From the cosmopolitan beaches of Skiathos to Skopelos’s Mamma Mia! fame, Alonissos’s protected marine sanctuary, and Skyros’s old-world charm, the Sporades are full of surprises. In this guide you’ll find everything you need – from insider tips and local stories to practical travel advice and stunning visuals – to plan your perfect Sporades vacation.
The Sporades lie northeast of Athens and east of the Pelion peninsula, hugging the mainland of Thessaly. Geographically they belong to the Thessaly region of Greece. These four main islands – Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros – form a chain stretching northward from Skiathos. Skiathos is the westernmost and most developed, only about 4–12 km wide. Skopelos is next, larger and hillier (about 96.3 km²). Alonissos (64 km²) lies northeast of Skopelos, famous for its marine park. Skyros, farthest south, is the largest of all (~209 km²). In total, the Sporades form the Sporades Regional Unit of Thessaly (Magnesia Prefecture), with Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros as its four municipalities.
Each island has its own character (see island pages below), but all share turquoise waters and thick pine woods. The Sporades group is surprisingly close-knit: on clear days the mountains of one island are visible from another.
In ancient Greek, Σποράδες (Sporades) simply means “those that are sown” – i.e. scattered like seeds. The name dates back to Antiquity, referring to any islands east of the Peloponnese. Today it specifically denotes this northern Aegean cluster. The islands feel truly sprinkled across the sea, each distinct yet part of the same family. Early cartographers noted their dispersed layout, and indeed, you’ll get that sense whenever you island-hop here.
In ancient Greek, Σποράδες (Sporades) simply means “those that are sown” – i.e. scattered like seeds. The name dates back to Antiquity, referring to any islands east of the Peloponnese. Today it specifically denotes this northern Aegean cluster. The islands feel truly sprinkled across the sea, each distinct yet part of the same family. Early cartographers noted their dispersed layout, and indeed, you’ll get that sense whenever you island-hop here.
Island | Area (km²) / Pop (2021) | Known For | Character & Vibe | Airport? |
Skiathos | 49.9 km² / 5,802 | 60+ sandy beaches, nightlife, writers (Papadiamantis) | Cosmopolitan, lively, party-oriented | Yes (JSI), plus ferries |
Skopelos | 96.3 km² / 4,520 | “Green island”, Mamma Mia church, olive/oak forests | Tranquil, family-friendly, scenic | No (ferry-only) |
Alonissos | 64 km² / 3,138 | National Marine Park (monk seals), crystal waters | Quiet, nature-focused, unspoiled | No (ferry-only) |
Skyros | 209 km² / 3,052 | Largest island, ancient mythology (Achilles, Theseus), unique traditions | Rustic, off-the-beaten-path, cultural | Yes (SRY), plus ferries |
This table sums up key facts (area, population, highlights). The real “best island” depends on your interests: beaches and nightlife, or quiet nature, or authentic culture, etc.
If sand and sunbathing top your list, Skiathos is hard to beat. Skiathos boasts over 60 beaches, many of them long, golden-sand shores ideal for families and partying (think Koukounaries or Banana). Skiathos has more sandy coast than any other Sporades isle – a mix of organized beach bars and hidden coves. Lalaria Beach (reachable only by boat) is a must-see for its dramatic white cliffs.
Skopelos also has beautiful beaches, though most are pebbly. Its top spots (e.g. Kastani, Stafylos, Panormos) are incredibly scenic, surrounded by pines. Alonissos and Skyros have fewer sandy beaches – Alonissos’s shores are mostly pebbles (but clear and calm) and Skyros’s are quiet coves. In short: beach lovers start in Skiathos. (See the “Best Beaches” section below for more by island.)
For families with kids or those seeking a laid-back pace, Skopelos (and parts of Skiathos) shine. Stafylos and Panormos beaches on Skopelos have gentle slopes and clear shallow waters – perfect for little ones. The island’s villages are safe and walkable, and many beaches have tavernas and playgrounds. (Skopelos was even called a “retirement destination” for Northerners, underscoring its peaceful vibe.)
Skiathos also has family-friendly options: Megali Ammos near town or Achladies near Koukounaries are popular with parents because of their facilities. Alonissos is great for kids who love nature – you can keep track of dolphin sightings or seals from shore!
Skyros can be hit-or-miss for families: it’s very traditional and rustic. The main town (Chora) has quaint festivals (like the wild “Kalogeros” carnival) that kids might enjoy, but many beaches are rocky.
If you live for hiking, wildlife, and unspoiled scenery, head to Alonissos. The entire island (especially the northern tip) is a nature preserve, part of Europe’s largest marine park. Pine forests and olive groves cover much of Alonissos, and the surrounding islets (Piperi, Gioura, etc.) are strictly protected for the monk seal population. On land you’ll see eagles and tortoises; offshore, binoculars often catch seals sunning on rocks.
Skopelos also has lush forest trails, and Skyros has rugged hills and endemic wildlife (like the Skyros pony). Skiathos, while wooded, is more developed.
For a deep dive into “old Greece,” Skyros is your secret weapon. Skyros’s traditions are unique: the isle has its own ceramic style, the famous red-on-black “Skyros marble,” and some of Greece’s most colorful festivals (like Skyrian Easter and the February Kalogeros festivities). Its villages (Chora Skyros) feel untouched by tourism – elders wear traditional vraka trousers and folk music often drifts from a taverna.
Skopelos’s villages (Glossa, Chora) also have a friendly, authentic feel, and local pine honey and cheese pies are specialty treats. Skiathos, by contrast, is busier and more touristic, though a few tavernas (like the Papadiamantis Museum near Skiathos Town) preserve heritage. Alonissos feels very authentic as well – the old port of Patitiri and the restored old village are charming and historically rich.
Skiathos is the western gateway of the Sporades and easily the liveliest. The main town (Skiathos Town) wraps around a horseshoe bay and buzzes with cafés, shops, and a marina. Its narrow streets are lined with tavernas and bars that light up at night. Despite its small size, Skiathos feels cosmopolitan thanks to summer crowds of Greeks and Europeans.
The island’s backdrop is mostly pine-clad hills. In fact, a high ridge above town gives you postcard views of the harbor and the distant blue Aegean – a perfect spot for sunset. The land is fairly flat near town but becomes rolling elsewhere. Decades ago, author Alexandros Papadiamantis (a local) called it “Greece’s emerald” because of the pine forests. Today, those woods and beaches still define Skiathos’s character: a mix of lively beach-party culture and natural charm.
Skiathos has over 60 beaches, ranging from organized party scenes to serene coves. Here are ten you shouldn’t miss (use the map below to navigate – many have parking or bus stops):
Many more await exploration – Skiathos rewards lazy day trips by boat or quad scooter. The island’s sheer number of beaches means there’s a spot for every mood, from lively to completely secluded.
Skiathos offers beach life and culture. Here are top activities:
Accommodations run the gamut from upscale resorts to family-run pensions. Your top area choices:
No matter where you stay, book early in summer (July–Aug) as Skiathos fills up.
As night falls, Skiathos transforms. The waterfront promenade is packed with cocktail bars, fish tavernas, and tiny cafes playing Greek bouzouki music. Try Rakia or Spiridakos for grilled seafood and local raki shots. As midnight approaches, head to clubs like Papagayo or Banana Beach Club (at Koukounaries) for dancing till dawn.
For a split-schedule approach: enjoy a family-friendly sunset dinner (the views from Barbouni tavern on Megali Ammos are legendary) then catch a shuttle into town for late-night fun.
Lush, green Skopelos is famous both for its pinelands and for starring in Mamma Mia! (2008). The island’s two main towns – Skopelos Town (the port) and Glossa (north side) – look like postcard-perfect Greek villages with tile roofs and Greek-flag-flying balconies. Pine forests cover much of the mountainous interior, giving Skopelos a fertile, unspoiled feel (so much so it earned the nickname “The Green Island”).
Tourism is well-developed but mostly low-key. You’ll find charming pension hotels, family tavernas, and gelato shops, but no mega-resorts. In summer months, visitors double (est. 2011: 5k locals vs. up to 20k in summer), yet crowds are spread out over many beaches and hills. The vibe is relaxed – you’re as likely to see a shepherd crossing the road as a selfie-stick.
One of Skopelos’s claims to fame is the film Mamma Mia! – many scenes were shot here. The most famous is the white Agios Ioannis Chapel by Glossa (the clifftop church where the wedding scene was filmed). It’s now a must-visit (or even marriage spot) for fans. Nearby is the Archaeological Museum of Skopelos Town, which even features Mamma Mia! memorabilia along with ancient finds.
In Skopelos Town you can recognize Sofia’s family hotel from the movie and see where the cast partied on the harbour beach (Alonissos and Skiathos also appear in the film). Even if you’re not a movie buff, Mamma Mia perks are a bonus – the island is naturally beautiful enough on its own!
Almost all Skopelos beaches are pebbly or partly rocky. Some of the best:
Skopelos’s beaches are not about sandy-party scenes; they’re all about scenery and serenity. Many have only basic amenities, so bring water and snacks for the quieter ones.
Skopelos has fewer large hotels than Skiathos, so accommodations tend to be romantic inns or family-run pensions. Again, book early for summer, especially during August cultural festivals.
Alonissos is all about nature and tranquility. The island is mountainous and heavily forested – much of it included in a national park. Life here revolves around the sea. The main port, Patitiri, is a tiny fishing harbor ringed by cafes. The old mountain village (Chora) clings to a cliff above – its white-washed houses seem sculpted on stone.
Despite small size, Alonissos has retained much of its traditional character. There are no big resorts; instead you’ll find pension houses and villas. Roads are mostly tarmacked but some beaches require a bit of hiking. This is the place to unplug. Locals’ livelihoods still include almond- and grape-growing, plus fishing.
One of Alonissos’s biggest draws is its National Marine Park, established in 1992. It’s Europe’s largest marine protected area (~2,260 km² covering the sea and surrounding islets). The park was created to save the endangered Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus monachus, of which Greece today harbors about 500 individuals (half the global population).
Key points about the park:
Beaches on Alonissos are mostly pebbly but incredibly scenic – think turquoise, clear waters surrounded by pine slopes. Notable spots:
The interior of Alonissos also has excellent hiking – rustic trails connect ancient chapels and forgotten shepherds’ huts. Peak hiking season is spring or fall, when wildflowers bloom.
Room availability is generally better than on Skiathos or Skopelos, but summer weekends (July–Aug) can still sell out. Book early for any pet-friendly or sea-view rooms, as they are limited.
Skyros is the most “off-the-beaten-path” of the Sporades. It is technically part of the Sporades archipelago, even though it lies south of Skyros Shipping’s ferry port Kymi on the Greek mainland. The landscape is quite different – mountainous and rocky, with unique cultural traditions. The main town (also called Skyros) is perched on steep cliffs by the harbor of Linaria. It feels like stepping into an old Greek village frozen in time.
Skyros’s population is small (~3,052), and the island has few beaches on its southern side. Much of Skyros’s mystique comes from legend: it was the island where Achilles hid as a girl and where Theseus later met his end. Contemporary Skyrians take pride in their folklore (including an annual carnival and the famed “Vraka” male costume).
Despite its heritage, Skyros does have modern comforts: a small airport (one runway, SRY) links to Athens in summer, and ferries from Kymi arrive daily. However, it remains less touristed. Roads are narrow and winding, and many off-map stone paths exist between hamlets. Expect genuine hospitality – families might invite you to sample local rakomelo (spiced wine) or watch weaving demonstrations.
Skyros has some secret treasures – far fewer than the other Sporades, but no less beautiful:
Because Skyros is larger, you’ll need transport (car/scooter) to reach most beaches. The island’s winds can shift in summer, so check local advice – the east side (Agios Fokas Beach near Linaria) can be good on days Atsitsa is windy.
Skyros maintains many old-world customs. Men traditionally wear the vraka (baggy breeches) on festive days, and many women still spin wool or make carpets by hand. The local language has some archaic words not heard in mainland Greek. Skyrians are proud of artisan crafts: the vivid red Skyrian Marble (a kind of breccia stone) has been used since antiquity (even for Medici treasures).
Religiously, Skyros is intense. Almost every chapel on the island has its own fete day with music and dance. The largest festival is August 16th, celebrating Agios Panteleimon in Linaria, featuring free dinners (food for hundreds) along the waterfront. If you’re lucky enough to catch one, you’ll feel like part of the community.
Cuisine here also has local twists: try skyriano kopanisti (a peppery cheese spread) or fried sboureki (cheese fritters). Sea urchins in late winter are a prized meal.
Options are limited but charming:
Given Skyros’s limited infrastructure, book as early as possible. July and August see islanders return from Athens, so even locals fill up guesthouses then.
To sum up our beach tour, here’s a handy comparison of beach types across all four islands, followed by picks for family-friendly, secluded, and party beaches.
Beach Category | Skiathos | Skopelos | Alonissos | Skyros |
Sandy Beaches | Koukounaries (soft sand), Troulos (sand-pebble mix), Banana (shell sand) | Kastani (fine pebbles, only truly sandy one), Panormos has sandy patches | Votsi / Chrysopigi (reddish sand-pebbles), Leftos Gialos (fine pebbles) | Atsitsa (white sand), Achilli (sandy islet) |
Pebble Beaches | Achladies, Megali Ammos (small pebbles), Mandraki (pebbles) | Stafylos, Panormos (small pebbles), Glossa beaches | Leftos Gialos (pebbles), Mavili (pebbles) | Agalipas (rocky wreck), Molos (harbor pebbles) |
Secluded/Nature | Lalaria (boat-only access), Megalochori (north beach) | Agios Ioannis (Mamma Mia chapel), Klefos (hidden north) | Psathoura (boat-only islet), Piperi (research only) | Agalipas (sunken shipwreck), Palatia (lava rock coves) |
Party/Water Sports | Koukounaries (windsurfing, beach bars), Vromolimnos (jetskis) | Panormos (windsurfing, beach bar) | Patitiri beach bars (laid-back) | (none: very quiet) |
The gentle, shallow beaches are perfect if you have kids. In Skiathos, Achladies (near Koukounaries) and Megali Ammos are popular for this reason. On Skopelos, Stafylos (sandy entry) and Milia are top picks – both have calm waters and tavernas on site. Alonissos’s Leftos Gialos bay is like a warm bathtub, and the soft sand of Votsi (Chrysopigi) makes it easy for little feet. In Skyros, Linaria (the port beach) and Atsitsa are safe choices (warm, shallow water).
For privacy and natural beauty, try the less-accessible coves. Boat-only Lalaria Beach in Skiathos is stunningly quiet if you arrive early. On Skopelos, hike to Agios Ioannis Chapel Beach or Mikro Kampi (north shore) for solitude. Alonissos has many off-the-grid spots: hike to Maramara or Gianni’s Beach (northwest) or join a seal-spotting boat to swim at Psathoura. In Skyros, Agalipas (the wreck beach) and the Pebble Beach at Palatia are nearly empty – they reward the effort with surreal scenery.
Nightlife and watersports are concentrated on Skiathos. Koukounaries (with its beach bar district) and Vromolimnos (jetskis) are the main action hubs. Skopelos’s Panormos is the center for windsurfing and beach bar cocktails. In Alonissos and Skyros there really aren’t party beaches – evenings there are quiet and stars-filled. The most “energetic” spots in those islands are the main harbors (Patitiri in Alonissos has a few chill bars; Linaria in Skyros has local tavernas).
Getting to the Sporades is straightforward but requires a bit of planning because there’s no single “Sporades airport.” The gateways are mainly Skiathos (by air) and various Aegean ports (by sea).
Skiathos Island National Airport (JSI) is your fastest entry point. Skiathos is just one flight away from Athens and Thessaloniki most days in summer. Flights take ~50 minutes from Athens and under 1 hour from Thessaloniki. Low-cost carriers often have deals (search Athens→Skiathos), especially in shoulder seasons. The airport is tiny and charming – planes land with a view of the lagoon and pine forest.
Skyros also has a small airport (SRY) with seasonal flights, mostly from Athens. It’s primarily charter flights in summer, so check early if you want to fly there.
All four islands are very well connected by ferry (no need for your own boat). In summer, regular ferries and high-speed catamarans run routes linking Skiathos→Skopelos→Alonissos→Skyros (and back). For example, a daytime vessel from Volos (mainland) will typically call at Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, making the journey in about 3–5 hours. Another route is from Mantoudi (Evia) similarly through all islands.
From Thessaloniki north, Seajets and other companies operate seasonal fast ferries that hop the three northern Sporades, continuing to Skyros. These are faster (around 3–4 hours to Skiathos). Ferries sail daily or multiple times daily in summer; schedules thin out by late September.
Patitiri (Alonissos): The main port of Alonissos has catamarans (“Flying Cat”) to Skiathos, Skopelos, Volos, Ag. Konstantinos, and Thessaloniki. From Patitiri, you can island-hop directly to both Skiathos and Skopelos without returning to the mainland – very handy.
By Air: Fly to Skiathos (as above), then take a ferry or boat taxi to Skopelos/Alonissos (ferries take 20–40 mins between islands). This is fastest to Skiathos.
By Road/Sea: Take an overnight bus (KTEL) from Athens to Volos (3-4 hrs) or Agios Konstantinos (2.5 hrs). Both ports have frequent catamarans to Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. From Volos it’s ~2.5–3 hrs to Skiathos; from Ag. Konstantinos ~2 hrs. (You can also drive to Mantoudi on Evia for ferries.)
Alternatively, fly to Thessaloniki and ferry from there via Skiathos. This is less common but doable when flights are good.
Thessaloniki has its own international airport, but few direct flights to Sporades (seasonal charters to Skiathos/Skyros). More often, travelers either connect via Athens or do:
During summer weekends, there are usually early morning ferries from Thessaloniki to Sporades and return. Bus lines run to Ikonio (the old ferry port).
Once you’re here, it’s tempting to sample all four islands. Here are sample itineraries and tips:
Inter-island ferries are frequent in summer. Blue Star Ferries and smaller companies run these loops daily. Typical connections:
Because schedules can be complex, use online tools (Ferryhopper, FerryScanner) or ask your hotel. A useful rule: ferries usually depart Skiathos in the morning, Skopelos mid-day, and Alonissos later afternoon (on the routes Volos→Skiathos→Skopelos→Alonissos).
The Sporades enjoy a typical Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Here’s the month-by-month breakdown:
In summary, aim for May–June or September for ideal weather and accessibility. July–August delivers guaranteed sun and vibrancy, while the shoulder seasons give you solitude and comfort.
Q: What are the Sporades Islands and which ones are the main ones?
A: The Sporades are a cluster of Greek islands in the northern Aegean Sea. The four principal inhabited ones are Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros. (Sometimes the term “Northern Sporades” excludes Skyros, but for most travel guides – including this one – it’s included.) Each island has its own character, but together they form one of Greece’s lushest archipelagos.
Q: Which Sporades island has the best beaches?
A: For sandy, accessible beaches, Skiathos is usually best. It boasts over 60 beaches, many of them golden and family-friendly (Koukounaries, Banana, etc.). Skopelos has very scenic beaches (often pebbly) like Stafylos and Kastani, while Alonissos and Skyros have fewer sandy shores (their highlight beaches tend to be smaller coves). So if you’re dreaming of long sandy lounges and beach bars, start with Skiathos.
Q: Is there an airport on Skopelos or Alonissos?
A: No. The only Sporades islands with airports are Skiathos (JSI) and Skyros (SRY). Skopelos and Alonissos must be reached by ferry. Most travelers fly into Skiathos from Athens/Thessaloniki and then ferry-hop Skopelos and Alonissos from there. Skyros airport mainly serves the island and offers connections back to Athens.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Sporades?
A: The ideal time is late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September). During these months you get warm, sunny weather and see fewer crowds than July–August. Summer (July/Aug) is hottest (up to ~85°F/29°C) and busiest (peak ferries and packed beaches). Winters are mild but rainy, and many businesses close off-season. If you want beach weather and a relaxed vibe, May–June or September strikes the best balance.
Q: How do I get to the Sporades from Athens?
A: Most travelers fly from Athens to Skiathos (50 min flight) and then take a short ferry to the other islands. Alternatively, you can take a bus/car to the port of Volos or Agios Konstantinos and catch a catamaran that visits Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. From Volos it’s about 3 hours to Skiathos by ferry. If flying, book your return (or connecting) ferry ticket in advance during summer to save hassle.
Q: Which Sporades island is best for families?
A: Skopelos and parts of Skiathos top the list. Skopelos’s Stafylos and Panormos beaches have shallow, clear waters perfect for kids, plus local tavernas and easy parking. Skiathos’s beaches like Megali Ammos and Kanapitsa are also child-friendly. Alonissos’s calm bays (Leftos Gialos) are great for a family swim, too. Skyros is more rustic, so families might find it less convenient.
Q: Can you go island hopping within the Sporades?
A: Absolutely. Regular ferries and hydrofoils link all four main Sporades. In summer you can hop from Skiathos to Skopelos to Alonissos (often on the same ferry route). Even Skyros is reachable in one day from Skiathos (with stops) or via a direct summer ferry from Thessaloniki. If you’re staying a week or more, plan to hit at least Skiathos + Skopelos + Alonissos – each has its own appeal.
The Sporades islands offer an unbeatable mix: emerald-green woods meeting crystalline waters, plus good Greek hospitality all around. To make the most of it, plan ahead: book ferries and lodging early for summer, pack reef-safe sunscreen (the pine shade is lovely but you’ll still burn), and rent a vehicle or scooter to reach hidden spots on each island. Keep an eye on local ferry schedules (they can shift by season) and consider spending a night on each island rather than rushing through.
During your trip, immerse yourself: try the local tavernas (goat stew in Alonissos, skopelitiko cheese pie in Skopelos, lamb with thyme in Skyros), and learn a few Greek phrases. In the evening, take a coastal walk or sip ouzo under the stars – every island’s sunset is unforgettable.
Above all, embrace the slow island ethos here. The Sporades aren’t about rushing from landmark to landmark but about soaking in the scenery and serenity. We hope this guide helps you navigate these enchanting isles with confidence. Wherever you wander in the Sporades, you’ll find unspoiled nature, authentic culture, and warm Aegean breezes waiting. Enjoy your adventure – and “kali diaskedasi” (have fun)!
