Essential information for Skiathos

When to go

The weather in Skiathos is consistently good in the summer. Temperatures are typically around 30°C, with 12 hours of sunshine a day. It barely rains in July and August, and this is the hottest time of year. Temperatures hover around 20°C between May and September so, if you want to avoid the most extreme heat but still soak up the sun on your holidays to Skiathos, then either side of July and August is a good time to visit.

Health and safety

Just as you would with any holiday, taking out comprehensive medical and travel insurance before you leave home is a must. It also makes sense to get hold of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before setting off on your holiday. This is free, and entitles you to the same emergency medical treatment Greek nationals receive. It only applies to emergency treatment though, ongoing care and medical repatriation are not covered.

If you plan to get involved in any watersports or other adrenaline-fuelled pursuits on your Greece holidays, you should see to it that your insurance covers this. Check out these holiday extras page for more information – and for the latest health and safety information, visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/health.

Passports and Visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Greece but must have a valid passport. Carry your passport with you, as you may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/entry-requirements.

Getting around

There’s an excellent south-coast bus service that goes between Skiathos Town and the Koukounaries resort frequently until late, and calls at 26 numbered stops. Taxi-boats are less frequent than the buses, but can be just as good if the route is relevant to you. They shuttle between the old port and Tzaneria. To get somewhere specific, hire a car or scooter.

Most tour operators will include airport transfers as part of their package holidays to Skiathos, so double check before you travel to see which journeys are already taken care of.

Advice for travellers with children

The Greek islands are generally great for kids, with their lush green scenery and wonderful beaches. Skiathos is no different as a well- developed tourist destination, there are many hotels and restaurants around with child-focused activities and play areas. Many of the beaches are just right for a frolic in the shallow water – if these don’t appeal, take them to scenic Kastro or get into the more relaxed watersports available at Megali Ammos, five minutes’ drive away from Skiathos Town.

Electricity

Connector type: Generally round two-pin plugs

Voltage info: 220 volts AC, 50Hz

Emergency services

Call 112 for all emergencies and the operator will put you through to the police, fire brigade or ambulance service. The line is operated in five languages, including English.

British consulate

The nearest Consulate is in Athens. If you urgently need help – if you’ve been attacked, arrested or lost your passport – call +30 210 7272 600. If you’re in the UK and concerned about a British national in Greece, call 020 7008 1500.

Hospital

There’s a medical centre but no hospital, so you have to sail to Volos on the mainland for hospital treatment. In case of an emergency you’d have to be airlifted to Athens. Volos Hospital is at Polymeri 134, Volos 38222, telephone (24210) 94200.

Useful links

Which Greek Island – Informative guides to various Greek islands, including useful information about Skiathos.

Skopelosnews – A blog gathering the latest news from the beautiful island of Skopelos, located just an hours ferry ride from Skiathos.

Love Skiathos – Useful information and things to do during cheap holidays in Skiathos.

Skopelos Walks – The best place to find information on guided walking tours on the island of Skopelos, located close to Skiathos. Including area maps and visitor information.