Greece
Skopelos has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are very dry, with minimal rainfall. Prolonged periods of sunshine are the norm. Winters receive the most rainfall, notably from November to February. This rain helps maintain the island's lush vegetation. Spring and autumn have moderate rainfall, often in short bursts or occasional thunderstorms, rather than continuous downpours. Humidity levels are generally moderate across the island. Coastal areas may have slightly higher humidity during the summer months.
Skopelos is not prone to monsoons or hurricanes. However, strong northern winds, known as meltemi, can occasionally mean ferry schedule changes during the summer, specifically in August. These winds cause delays or cancellations. Meltemi winds can also make certain exposed beaches windy, impacting swimming conditions. For a relaxed beach vacation with warm swimming, choose late June or early September. The crowds are thinner than in August, and the weather is still perfect.
Beach & Swimming: June to September has the warmest sea and sun. Hiking & Cycling: April-May and September-October provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Sightseeing & Cultural Exploration: The shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures for exploring historical sites, monasteries, and towns without the intense heat or crowds of summer. This timing allows for more relaxed and enjoyable cultural immersion.
Warmest sea temperatures, all services operational.
Warmest sea temperatures. All tourist services (hotels, restaurants, shops, tour operators) fully operational.
Beaches and towns are crowded. Accommodation and flight prices reach their peak. The sun is strong. Finding parking can be difficult. Reservations for popular restaurants or boat trips are often required.
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, better value.
Temperatures are pleasant, ideal for swimming and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Fewer crowds. Prices for accommodation and ferries are lower. The landscape is lush and green in spring, with wildflowers. Early autumn still has warm sea temperatures.
Some services may operate with reduced hours, notably in late October. The sea might feel cooler for swimming in May. Certain very small businesses might not be open until mid-May.
Authentic local life, lowest prices.
Few tourists mean an authentic local way of life. Prices are at their lowest for accommodation and other services. The island keeps its lush green scenery, suitable for quiet exploration and hiking.
Many tourist-oriented businesses close for the winter. Ferry schedules become very limited. The weather is cooler, with a higher chance of rain. Some beaches might not have open facilities.
Greece is a member of the Schengen Area. Visa requirements are consistent across all 27 Schengen member states. Your first point of entry into the Schengen Area stamps your passport, but free movement between member countries is possible once inside. Citizens of many non-EU countries require a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa allows travel throughout the Schengen Area. Apply at the embassy or consulate of your main destination country. The application process includes forms and supporting documents. Plan to apply well in advance, as processing times vary. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many others do not need a Schengen visa for tourist stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This provides flexibility for short visits.
A change comes in mid-2025. Visa-exempt travelers, including US citizens, will apply for an ETIAS authorization online prior to their trip. This is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA. It seeks to enhance security and streamline border checks. The ETIAS authorization will cost €7 and will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Travelers will apply online and receive approval via email, which they then link to their passport. Complete this application before your departure. There are no general entry fees for tourists to Greece. Standard immigration procedures apply upon arrival at your first Schengen port of entry. This includes presenting your passport, identity verification, and potentially questions about your trip's purpose and duration. Customs declarations for goods are also part of this process.
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. It should also have at least two blank pages for stamps. Check your passport's expiration date well in advance of booking your trip.
Visa applicants need passport-sized photos conforming to Schengen requirements. Even if visa-exempt, have a digital copy of a recent passport-style photo available for various online forms or for identification purposes.
Visa applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Greece. Immigration officials may also request this from visa-exempt travelers upon arrival.
You must provide proof of onward or return travel out of the Schengen Area. This demonstrates your intent to leave before your authorized stay expires.
Mandatory for Schengen visa applicants, travel insurance is highly suitable for all travelers. It offers coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events.
The currency in Greece is the Euro (€, EUR). These estimates provide a general guide, with actual costs varying based on your choices and the season.
ATMs are widely available in Skopelos Town and Glossa. Withdraw cash from ATMs associated with major banks (e.g., National Bank of Greece, Piraeus Bank) to avoid higher fees often charged by independent, non-bank ATMs. Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before you travel.
Tipping is not strictly mandatory in Greece but is always appreciated for good service. It shows your satisfaction.
These are approximate costs. Prices generally decrease in the shoulder seasons (May, early June, September, October).
Accommodations (per night): Hostel/Budget Guesthouse: €25-€50; Mid-range Hotel/Apartment: €50-€120; Luxury Hotel/Villa: €120-€500+.
Meals: Coffee: €3-€5; Pastry/Snack: €2-€4; Souvlaki/Gyros: €3.50-€5; Casual Taverna Meal: €12-€25; Mid-range Restaurant Meal: €25-€40+; Soft Drink: €2.50-€4; Local Beer: €4-€6.
Greece is a safe destination. Preparation and awareness make a difference. Always carry a small first aid kit with basics like Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications. This helps with minor issues quickly.
No specific vaccinations are for entry to Greece from most countries. Consult a travel health professional before your trip. They often suggest routine vaccinations are current, including MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and an annual flu shot. Hepatitis A and B are commonly recommended for travelers to the Mediterranean region.
The Mediterranean sun can be intense. Use High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen generously and reapply often. Wear a Wide-brim hat and sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours (12 PM-4 PM). Stay hydrated by drinking water.
Mosquitoes can be present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk. Consider a plug-in repellent or Mosquito net.
Skopelos Health Center (Medical Center) is in Skopelos Town. Pharmacies (Farmakeia) operate in Skopelos Town and Glossa, identified by a green cross sign.
Emergency Number: Dial 112 for the European emergency number. This number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services. For serious medical conditions or complex emergencies, patients may transfer to larger hospitals on the mainland (e.g., in Volos) or on Skiathos. This transfer often occurs by ferry or by Hellenic Coast Guard vessel for urgent cases.
Tap water in Skopelos is potable. Many visitors prefer Bottled water due to taste differences. Food hygiene standards in established restaurants and eateries are generally good and adhere to European Union regulations.
Skopelos has very low crime rates. Petty crime like pickpocketing is rare but can occur in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. A Money belt can safeguard passports and larger sums of cash.
Greece is an active seismic zone. While major, damaging earthquakes are rare, minor tremors can occur. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures in your accommodation.
During hot, dry summers, especially from July to September, wildfires appear as a risk, notably in Skopelos's extensive wooded areas. Exercise extreme caution with fire. Follow all local warnings.
Strong northern winds during the summer disrupt ferry schedules and make swimming difficult on exposed beaches. Monitor weather forecasts and ferry company announcements.
Travel insurance is highly suitable for any international trip. It offers coverage for medical emergencies (including emergency evacuation), trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or delayed luggage, and other unforeseen events. Check your chosen policy covers any activities you plan to undertake, like water sports, hiking, or scooter rental. Read the policy details carefully to understand what is included.
