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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Greece

Nearby Destinations

Accessible locations within day-trip distance include Skopelos, Skiathos, Peristera, and Kyra Panagia.

Skopelos, known for its green landscapes and Mamma Mia! film sites, and Skiathos, with its lively atmosphere and organized beaches, are easily reached by ferry. Peristera and Kyra Panagia, part of the National Marine Park, are best explored via organized boat tours.

Transportation & Travel Tips

  • Skopelos: Frequent ferry and high-speed catamaran from Patitiri. Journey 30-60 minutes.
  • Skiathos: Frequent ferry and high-speed catamaran from Patitiri. Journey 1.5-3 hours.
  • Peristera/Kyra Panagia: Organized boat tours from Patitiri or Steni Vala.
  • Consider booking day trips in advance: GetYourGuide.

Natural Escapes

The National Marine Park is the main natural escape from Alonnisos, with its pristine islands and waters.

National Marine Park

The National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades (NMPANS) safeguards endangered Mediterranean monk seals, bottlenose dolphins, and diverse marine life.

Access & Protection

  • Mainly via organized boat tours from Patitiri and Steni Vala.
  • Strict regulations apply, especially in Zone A around Piperi island.
  • Some tours view restricted islands from a distance.

Scenic Wonders

Gioura and Piperi Islands fall within strictly protected zones. The Blue Cave (Fokospilia) is a popular sea cave known for its luminous blue light.

Experiences

  • Views of unspoiled islands from a respectful distance.
  • Swim in the luminous waters of Blue Cave.
  • Pristine, deserted beaches for swimming and snorkeling.

Multi-Day Extensions

Island Hopping

  • Combine Alonnisos with 2-3 days on Skopelos.
  • Add 1-2 days on Skiathos for a diverse trip.
  • Ferry schedules reduce in off-season.
  • Many tourist businesses close in winter.

Mainland Connections

  • Connect to Volos for Meteora exploration.
  • Visit Athens for historical experiences.
  • Inter-island ferries connect the Sporades.
  • Flights from Skiathos connect to Athens and Europe.

Transportation & Logistics

  • Inter-island ferries:Frequent
  • Mainland connections:Buses/Ferries
  • Skiathos Airport:Flights
  • Sample 10-day itinerary:Varied trip
  • Skopelos journey:30-60 min
  • Skiathos journey:1.5-3 hrs
  • Peristera access:Boat tours
  • Kyra Panagia access:Boat tours

Travel Planning

Plan your departure and return ferry times carefully to maximize your time on destination islands.

Cultural Excursions

While Alonnisos itself has cultural depth, nearby sites broaden your understanding of the region's heritage.

Monastery Visit

The Monastery of Agia Kyra Panagia on the uninhabited island of Kyra Panagia gives a glimpse into the region's religious history.

Rural Life

Explore small inland hamlets on Alonnisos or Skopelos to see traditional island life, olive groves, and local agricultural practices.

Pilgrimage Sites

The Monastery of Agia Kyra Panagia is a historical religious site. Numerous small churches are found on Alonnisos and Skopelos.

Skopelos Experience

Skopelos, larger and greener, is famous for its churches, traditional architecture, and as a Mamma Mia! filming location. A mix of lively towns and secluded beaches.

Highlights

  • Explore Skopelos Town’s charming alleys.
  • Visit Panagitsa tou Pyrgou church above the harbor.
  • Take a taxi to Agios Ioannis Prodromos, the Mamma Mia! church.

Skiathos Contrast

Skiathos, with an airport, contrasts Alonnisos with its lively nightlife, organized beaches, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Experiences

  • Explore Skiathos Town (Chora).
  • Relax at famous beaches like Koukounaries.
  • Wander through the Bourtzi peninsula.

Getting There

Skopelos & Skiathos:Public Ferries/Catamarans
Peristera & Kyra Panagia:Organized Boat Tours
Independent Travel:Flexible, manage bookings
Organized Tours:Convenience, local guides
Day trip duration:Half to full day
Maximize time:Check ferry schedules

Travel Itinerary

  • Consider a 10-day itinerary: Fly into Athens, domestic flight or ferry to Skiathos.
  • Spend 1-2 days in Skiathos exploring beaches.
  • Take a ferry to Alonnisos, 3-4 days for the marine park and relaxation.
  • Ferry to Skopelos, 2-3 days for town and film sites.
  • Return to Skiathos for departure or ferry to mainland for Athens/other Greek parts.