Chora of Skyros

The capital of Skyros is built amphitheatrically at the side of a hill, under the shadow of a tall cliff on which the castle stands. The narrow stone-paved alleys and the bright-white houses give Chora a cycladic feel. Take a seat in one of the coffee shops at the main square and order loukoumades (donut-like dessert). For the best sunset on the island and a terrific view to the sea walk to the Brook square at the north edge of Chora, where the brass statue of the philhellene British poet stands. Finally do not pass up the opportunity to get some ice-cream at Faltaina, found on the main road, where you will find the most unusual flavors.

Skyros Castle

The byzantine castle was build on top of this stiff rock that makes for a perfect natural fortress. Here you can see house ruins, the church of Agios Athanasios at the entrance, the church of Agios Georgios of 960 A.C. and the ruins of the Kimisi Theotokou temple built in 895 A.C. and demolished during the 19th century by an earthquake.

Skyros Archaeological Museum

The Skyros Archaeological Museum was built in 1973 at the northeast side of Chora, and it consists two ground halls and a roofed gallery. Its collection includes precious findings from the Early Helladic period (2900-1900 B.C.) up to the roman times, which are mostly vessels, bronze items, jewelery, sculptures, tombstones, sarcophaguses and much more. Telephone 22220 91327.

Faltaits Historical and Folklore Museum

It was founded by Manos Faltaits in 1964 and it is one of the oldest of its kind in Greece. It is housed in an island mansion built on the ancient walls, at the northern edge of Skyros town. Inside you will see the representation of a fully furnished traditional house of Skyros with curved chects, textiles, ceramics, traditional costumes of Skyros, farmer tools and more. Website, telephone 22220 91232.

Agios Nikolaos Church

The most special attraction of Skyros that you must visit is the tiny church of Agios Nikolaos in Pouria which is built inside a limestone rock. There are two more rare sights nearby that you should photograph, the islet with the scenic church of Agios Ermolaos on top and a rare rocky formation called stone mushroom, with its narrow base right by the sea.

Horses of Skyros

This is a rare and ancient race of small horses, one meter high, that are not pony horses, as they are a smaller version of the regular horse. They go around free mainly at the north part of Skyros but you can see them in various private estates where children can get the chance to ride them.

Daily Cruise

There is a daily cruise starting from Linaria with a ticket of 25 euro. The cruise includes a stop at Sarakiniko island for a swim in the spectacular Glyfada beach, and a visit to the caves of south Skyros for a quick dive and some pictures.