Skopelos Greece Travel Guide
Skiathos International Airport (JSI), also known as Alexandros Papadiamantis Airport, is on the neighboring island of Skiathos. All air travelers bound for Skopelos first fly to Skiathos and after that take a ferry or hydrofoil to Skopelos. During the summer season (roughly May to October), Skiathos Airport is mainly served by charter airlines and low-cost carriers from various European cities.
Flight frequency and availability to Skiathos are highest from June to September. During these peak months, specifically July and August, flight prices are significantly higher due to demand. Prices generally decrease in the shoulder seasons (May, early June, September, October). Skiathos Airport is a small regional airport, offering basic facilities. You find a few cafes for refreshments, a duty-free shop for last-minute purchases, car rental desks, and a taxi stand directly outside the terminal. Do not expect extensive services or prolonged waiting areas.
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Land transportation for the most part applies to reaching the mainland ferry ports from which you can travel to Skopelos. Skopelos is an island, so no direct land routes exist.
Skopelos has two main ferry ports: Skopelos Town Port (Chora), the main port, and Loutraki Port (Glossa) on the northwest side. Ferries going to Skopelos depart from mainland ports like Volos, Agios Konstantinos, Kymi, and Mantoudi. Skopelos is also linked by ferry to Skiathos and Alonissos.
High-speed catamarans/hydrofoils (e.g., Hellenic Seaways, SeaJets) are more rapid and usually carry only passengers or have limited car capacity. Conventional Ferries (e.g., ANES Ferries) are slower and more economical. They carry both automobiles and passengers.
Booking ferry tickets in advance is highly suitable, especially during high season and if you are traveling with a car. Use online platforms like Ferryhopper.com. Travel times vary: Skiathos to Skopelos is 30-60 mins (high-speed) or 1-1.5 hours (conventional); Volos to Skopelos is 2.5-4 hours (high-speed) or 3.5-5 hours (conventional).
No specific exit fees or taxes apply when you depart Greece as a traveler. Your flight and ferry tickets include any applicable taxes.
If flying out from Skiathos International Airport (JSI), arrive at least 2 hours before international flights and A single.5 hours for domestic flights. Skiathos Airport is small and becomes very congested during peak season, leading to longer queues for check-in and security.
Always check ferry schedules on the day of travel using a reliable source. Weather can cause delays or cancellations, and being informed helps you adjust plans.
Factor in the ferry journey time from Skopelos to Skiathos, and subsequently the short transfer from Skiathos port to the airport.
Skopelos has a practical public bus service that connects its main towns and popular beaches, providing an economical way to travel. This service, managed by KTEL Skopelou, is the main mode of public transport for visitors and locals, covering the island's main tourist route.
The main bus station, a central hub, is conveniently in Skopelos Town, close to the port. During high season (July-August), buses run frequently, typically every 30-60 minutes during the day. Services get an early start (around 7 AM) and continue until late evening (around midnight in peak season). In shoulder seasons, frequency decreases but coverage stays good. During low season, service is very limited, mainly for local residents.
Taxis offer a convenient and direct way to travel around Skopelos, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage. Licensed taxis are typically silver-colored vehicles with a specialive taxi sign on the roof. They display their license number. You can hail them on the street, especially in Skopelos Town or Glossa, or find them at designated taxi stands near the port. Calling a taxi over the phone is also an option. During peak season or late evenings, taxis can be in high demand.
Fares for taxis are generally regulated. Always check the price or ensure the meter is used before starting your journey, especially for longer trips. Short rides within Skopelos Town cost around €5-€8. Skopelos Town to popular nearby beaches (e.g., Stafylos) is about €10-€15. Skopelos Town to Glossa/Loutraki (length of the island) costs around €30-€40. Cash is the preferred payment technique for taxis. While some taxis may accept cards, it is not guaranteed, so carry cash for taxi fares. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are generally not available on Skopelos.
To rent a car, you typically need to be at least 21-23 years old. You need to possess a valid driving license. For non-EU driving licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed by Greek law. A credit card is for the security deposit. Local car rental agencies like Motoroute, AutoTour, and Skopelos Cars operate on the island. Booking a car in advance is highly suitable during high season. Daily rental costs for a small car range from €35 in shoulder season to €80+ in peak season.
Skopelos provides excellent opportunities for exploring on foot or by bicycle, providing a different perspective on the island's beauty.
Skopelos has few dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists share the road with vehicles. The island's terrain is steep and winding in several spots, making cycling a challenging but rewarding activity for those with good fitness levels.
Small boat taxis offer transfers to otherwise inaccessible beaches or coves. These are invaluable for reaching pristine spots not reachable by road. They operate from ports like Skopelos Town and Agnontas, connecting to beaches like Limnonari, Hovolo, and Kastani. Boat taxis often operate on a fixed schedule during peak season or can be chartered on-demand for chauffeured cars or excursions.
Cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local transport types are not available on Skopelos. The island relies on traditional road and sea transport.
Public transportation on Skopelos has limited accessibility for travelers with significant mobility challenges. Private transfers (taxis or pre-arranged private cars) offer more tailored solutions and flexibility. While reserving accommodation, inquire about accessibility features, as many traditional properties may have stairs or uneven surfaces.
