Skiathos Crowned Europe’s Second Most Beautiful Island by Lonely Planet
Skiathos Town. Credit: Greek Reporter
According to Lonely Planet, Skiathos is the quintessential destination for travelers dreaming of the perfect Greek beach. In its latest rankings of the “12 Best Islands in Europe,” the guide placed Skiathos at an impressive second place, second only to Korčula in Croatia.
Lonely Planet describes Skiathos as a “pine-scented” paradise in the glittering Sporades, famous for its lush, rolling hills carpeted in olive trees and over sixty exquisite beaches.
At a beach on Skiathos, a man in the water. Credit: Greek Reporter
The guide highlights the contrast between the island’s vibrant, cosmopolitan hubs and its tranquil, “soulful” corners. Skiathos Town, the easy-going capital, is praised for its traditional island architecture and maze of whitewashed streets. For those looking to “see and be seen,” the town offers a lively mix of galleries, tavernas, and boutiques along the waterfront.
However, the real star of the show is the coastline. Lonely Planet identifies Koukounaries Beach as a must-see, describing it as a “luscious stretch of powdery white sand” backed by a fragrant pine forest. For a more rugged experience, the guide recommends escaping to the north coast, where dramatic cliffs meet “silver-pebble coves.” Iconic spots like Lalaria Beach, famous for its natural rock arch and accessible only by boat, are highlighted as some of the most beautiful in the Aegean.
The Lalaria beach on Skiathos. Credit: Greek Reporter
Beyond the sun and sand, Lonely Planet doted on the island’s rich heritage. It is the birthplace of the renowned 19th-century writer Alexandros Papadiamantis and played a key role in the Greek War of Independence. Visitors are encouraged to seek out the island’s “soul” by visiting the medieval clifftop capital of Kastro or the serene Moni Evangelistrias monastery, tucked away in the hushed mountains. Whether you are there for the world-class nightlife or a quiet hike along pine-dusted paths, Lonely Planet concludes that Skiathos offers a perfect blend of Greek tradition and modern Mediterranean charm.
According to Lonely Planet, the top ten islands in Europe are:
Korčula, Croatia – Ranked #1 for its “serene beauty,” medieval architecture, and lush pine forests
Skiathos, Greece – Praised as the “best for beaches,” specifically for its powdery white sand and more than 60 different coves
Sardinia, Italy – Highlighted for its “wild nature,” rugged mountains, and deep-rooted Sardinian culture
Corsica, France – Recognized for its “geographical diversity,” blending high mountain peaks with gold-crescent coves
Menorca, Spain – Noted for being a quieter, more romantic alternative to its neighboring Balearic Islands
Saaremaa, Estonia – An unexpected gem famous for its windmills, traditional villages, and coastal meadows
Lofoten Islands, Norway – Famous for dramatic fjords, red fishing huts, and the chance to see the Northern Lights
Gotland, Sweden – A history-lover’s paradise centered around the UNESCO-listed medieval town of Visby
Texel, Netherlands – A unique North Sea destination known for its vast dunes, bird sanctuaries, and cycling paths
Isles of Scilly, England – An archipelago off the coast of Cornwall celebrated for its mild climate and crystal-clear turquoise waters
Related: Greece’s Skiathos Airport: The Ultimate Takeoff and Landing Thrill
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