Skopelos: a guide to the green island of the Sporades
Skopelos is one of Greece's greenest islands: pine forests, clear bays and a white town tumbling down to the harbour. Plus the famous Mamma Mia church.
- Skopelos has no airport: arrive by ferry from Volos (about 2–4 hours) or via Skiathos airport next door.
- Top beaches: Stafylos, Panormos, Milia and Kastani.
- Agios Ioannis Kastri church near Glossa is known from the wedding scenes in Mamma Mia.
Skopelos suits anyone after a quiet, green and not-too-expensive island. Combine it with Skiathos or with Volos and Pelion, and hire a car to reach the beaches.
Skopelos, Greece: where is it?
Skopelos is one of the Northern Sporades in the Aegean, east of the Pelion peninsula, with Skiathos to the west and Alonissos to the east. It is mostly covered in pine forest, and is one of the greenest islands in Greece.
Skopelos Town and Glossa
Skopelos Town (Chora) is built like an amphitheatre on the hill above the harbour: white houses with tiled roofs, alleys and small churches. In the evening the waterfront fills with tavernas and cafés.
Glossa, in the north-west, is the second village, quieter and more traditional. The island has three ports, the town, Glossa and Agnontas, so check which one your ticket is for.
Skopelos beaches
According to Greeka, these stand out:
- Stafylos: close to town, with shady pines; good for a morning with kids.
- Panormos: a wide, sheltered bay on the west coast, with pebbles and clear water.
- Milia: a popular west-coast beach.
- Kastani: a small, pretty beach not far from Milia.
Mamma Mia, Skopelos: the church on the rock
Agios Ioannis Kastri church stands on a rock above the sea near Glossa, known from the wedding scenes in Mamma Mia. You reach it by climbing steps cut into the rock. The view is worth the effort, especially at sunset. Take water, as there is little shade.
How to get to Skopelos
Skopelos has no airport, so you arrive by sea:
- From Volos: according to Ferryhopper, the crossing takes about 2–4 hours depending on the vessel, with several sailings a day in season.
- From Skiathos: the nearest airport. The crossing is short, so many people fly to Skiathos and continue by boat.
- From Alonissos: routes link the two islands.
More on the departure city: Volos, and on the neighbour: Skiathos.
How many days on Skopelos?
Three or four days cover the town, Glossa, the church and a few beaches. With a week you can add a day on Alonissos.
Practical tips
- Car: recommended, as beaches are spread along the west and south coasts.
- When: June and September are quieter and more pleasant than August.
- Combining: Skopelos pairs well with Pelion; see the Pelion guide.
FAQ
Does Skopelos have an airport? No. You arrive by ferry, usually from Volos or from Skiathos, which has the nearest airport.
How long is the ferry from Volos to Skopelos? According to Ferryhopper, about 2–4 hours depending on the vessel.
Where was Mamma Mia filmed on Skopelos? The wedding scenes were filmed at Agios Ioannis Kastri church near Glossa.
What is the best beach on Skopelos? Milia and Panormos stand out, and Stafylos is especially handy because it is close to town.
