Kastro: A Medieval Fortress Town on Skiathos

Explore the ruins of Skiathos's medieval capital, Kastro, a historic fortress village offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's past.

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Historical monument

Kastro, perched on a cliff on the northern tip of Skiathos, is a now-uninhabited village that was once the island's fortified capital. Dating back to the 14th century, it offers visitors a glimpse into the island's history with its Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish influences.

A brief summary to Historical monument

Kastro, Skiathos, 370 02, GR

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and involves walking on stone paths and potentially steep inclines.
Bring water and snacks, especially during hot days, as there are limited facilities available within the Kastro site.
Combine your visit with a swim at Kastro Beach, located below the village, for a refreshing experience.

Getting There

Driving

From Skiathos Town, drive north for approximately 9km. Follow the main road towards Agios Konstantinos, and then follow the signs to Kastro. The paved road turns into a dirt road for the final section. Park at the designated parking area near Panagia Kardasia church. From there, walk the remaining distance (around 30-35 minutes) along the stone-paved trail to Kastro.
Public Transport

Take the bus from Skiathos Town towards Evangelistria Monastery. Alight at a stop near the turn-off for Kastro. From there, it's a considerable walk (over 2 hours) along a dirt path to Kastro, suitable only for experienced hikers. Alternatively, take the bus to a stop along the southern coast and then take a boat from the Old Port of Skiathos to Kastro Beach. From the beach, there is a steep path to Kastro.
Boat

Several boat trips depart daily from Skiathos Town's Old Port, offering direct access to Kastro Beach. From the beach, a steep path leads up to the Kastro site. These boat trips often combine a visit to Kastro with other nearby attractions like Lalaria Beach.

Discover more about Historical monument

Kastro, meaning "castle" in Greek, is a historical monument located on the northernmost point of Skiathos island. This fortified settlement served as the island's capital from 1540 until 1829, offering refuge to the local population from pirate raids. The village is built on a rocky promontory, naturally defended by steep cliffs on three sides. Originally inhabited around 1360, Kastro was a bustling town with hundreds of houses and numerous churches. Over the centuries, it experienced Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule, each leaving their mark on the architecture and culture. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of houses, churches, a mosque, and remnants of the fortification walls. Among the notable sites are the churches of Christos and Agios Nikolaos, and the remains of a Turkish command center. After Greece gained independence in 1830, Kastro was abandoned as residents moved back to the original town site, now modern Skiathos Town, using materials from Kastro to rebuild. The site now stands as a protected historical landmark, offering stunning views and a tangible connection to Skiathos's past.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Historical monument

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Tsougrias

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Secret Sporades Panoramic Residence

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The Little Train of Pelion

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Tsagarada - Xourichti old bridge

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Unmissable attractions to see

Paralia Lalaria

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Πυργί

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Lalaria beach

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Mitikas Peak - Highest point

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Magic Forest

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Μουσείο

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Holy Monastery of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

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Paralia Lechouni

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Ligaries Beach

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Megas Gialos beach

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Σπήλαιο Ασέληνου

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Crazy Cow Restaurant

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Lyhnari

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Skiathos Achinos Beach Restaurant

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Polikratis

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Paraxenos Restaurant

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Basilikos

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Marianna Jewels & Art

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Boubouki

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Kastro: A Medieval Fortress Town on Skiathos

A brief summary to Historical monument

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Boat

Unlock the Best of Historical monument

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Historical monument

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Historical monument

Paralia Megalos Aselinos

Tsougrias

Secret Sporades Panoramic Residence

Chapel of St. John (Ioannis)

Argalasti

Skopelos

Carved Graves Sedoukia

Nisis Alatas

Monument to the Unknown Sailor

Asclepieion of Ancient Peparethos

Amarandos Cove

The Little Train of Pelion

Σιδηροδρομικός Σταθμός Μηλεών, Τρενάκι, Πήλιο

Tsagarada - Xourichti old bridge

Unmissable attractions to see

Paralia Lalaria

Πυργί

Lalaria beach

Mitikas Peak - Highest point

Magic Forest

Μουσείο

Holy Monastery of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Paralia Lechouni

Ligaries Beach

Paralia Megas Gialos

Skiathos Firewatch

Θέα Σκιάθου (χώρα) Α- Skiathos (hora) viewpoint A

Megas Gialos beach

Σπήλαιο Ασέληνου

Airport viewpoint

Essential places to dine

Kehria Tarsanas Taverna

Platanos Greek Restaurant

Anatoli Taverna

Agnadio

Crazy Cow Restaurant

Lyhnari

Skiathos Achinos Beach Restaurant

Polikratis

Marmita

Artesanal

The Windmill Restaurant Skiathos

The Borzoi

Paraxenos Restaurant

Basilikos

Dinos

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Marianna Jewels & Art

Boubouki

Agua Gift Shop

AYIOTIS S.A.

Margot

Department store

D.X&Y

Skiathos

Olive Tree Skiathos

Eϕhmepiε

Market Shopping Skiathos - Supermarket | Liquor Store | Boat supply

Acrolith Skiathos

θέρως - Theros

STONES SKIATHOS

Matohantro

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

lobby cafe bar

Phedrock Bar

Danny & Zoe's Blind Dog - Live Music Bar