Lonely Planet: Skiathos Among Best European Islands for Summer Getaways

Skiathos Island.

The Greek island of Skiathos is the second best European island to visit this summer, according to a new survey by renowned travel guide Lonely Planet.

The survey lists the 12 best islands in Europe for a summer break, as detailed in Lonely Planet’s latest publication, “The Islands Book”.

According to the list, Korčula Island in Croatia, with its tapestry of vineyards, long beaches, and historical architecture, is the top choice for summer holidays.

Greece’s Skiathos, known as the “Mamma Mia Island,” secured second place on the list due to its “lush stretch of powdery white sand” and rocky sea-hugging outcrops that glow at sunset.

“Whether you want to take in whitewashed buildings that cling to rocky cliffs or see the northern lights brighten the sky from a snowy isle, Europe has the perfect spot,” Lonely Planet says.

Aselinos beach on Skiathos. Photo source: My Thessaly.

The island of Skiathos features high among other European destinations due to its picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage.

“Birthplace of the great 19th-century Greek writer Alexandros Papadiamantis and a key location during the Greek War of Independence, this history-rich pine-scented island sits just off mainland Greece, halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki, in the glittering Sporades,” Lonely Planet’s experts say.

Praised for its small yet relaxed atmosphere, Skiathos Town is able to enchant visitors with its white-walled streets and traditional island architecture. A short distance from the town, ancient monasteries are hidden in lush mountains, while the blue coastline unfolds in beautiful beaches emerging from olive groves.

The survey also highlights the local gastronomy, which travelers can experience at family-owned tavernas situated in “secluded silver-pebble coves”. Visitors will savor “feta-loaded salads, crisp golden chips, and platters of super-fresh seafood”.

Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos. Photo source: Lonely Planet

The third scenic island destination on lonely Planet’s list is Sardinia, Italy, followed by Corsica, France and Menorca, Spain.

Lonely Planet’s list of Europe’s 12 best islands for a summer break includes Saaremaa, Estonia, in 6^th place; Lofoten Islands, Norway (7^th); Gotland, Sweden (8^th); Texel, the Netherlands (9th); Isles of Scilly, England (10^th); Isle of Skye, Scotland (11th); and Inis Mór, Ireland (12th).