Calling All Dancing Queens: Meet the Greek Island of Skopelos (the real-life Mamma Mia island!)
Mamma Mia launched the picture-perfect Greek island of Skopelos to fame, but there’s more than movie magic here. What to know before you go!
Cue the ABBA soundtrack.
If you’ve ever dreamed of dancing your way through a sun-soaked Greek island like Meryl Streep, welcome to Skopelos, Greece—the real-life star of “Mamma Mia.”
This lush, pine-covered island in the Aegean Sea shot to fame when it became the backdrop for the hit musical, and it’s been charming visitors ever since.
With its crystal-clear waters, cobbled streets, and whitewashed villages, a visit here will have you absentmindedly humming Dancing Queen before you know it.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
And yet, despite its movie fame, Skopelos somehow still feels refreshingly untouristy.
Unlike some of the better-known Cycladic islands, it has a laid-back vibe that’s more about sipping wine in a quiet harbor taverna than partying until sunrise.
But don’t worry—there’s no shortage of iconic filming locations to explore if you’re here for a little movie magic.
Whether you’re coming for the Mamma Mia day trips, the traditional architecture, or the simple pleasure of swimming off a nearly empty beach, Skopelos delivers.
And when my husband and I recently visited the Sporades Islands, we fell a little bit in love with the beauty and charm of Skopelos.
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So let’s talk about how to get there, where to stay, and all the best things to do when you visit Greece’s Mamma Mia megastar island.
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How to Get to Skopelos
By Plane ✈️
While Skopelos doesn’t have its own airport, nearby Skiathos does (JSI). And that’s your entry point by air. Skiathos has regular, convenient flights daily from Athens and the flight time is just 40 minutes.
The ferry from Skiathos to Skopelos is a short and scenic ride. Ferries from Skiathos go to both Skopelos Town and Glossa and the ride takes about 30–60 minutes depending on the route and ferry type.
Direct Flights from Europe
In the summer months, there are also direct flights to Skiathos from cities like London, Amsterdam, Munich, and Rome. We actually flew to Skiathos from Italy’s Pisa Airport on a seasonal nonstop flight with Ryan Air.
Tip: If you’re planning an island-hopping trip to the Sporades, staying on Skiathos is another great option. But even if you don’t stay on Skiathos, the island has one spectacular beach you don’t want to miss. 👇
Read More: This Stunning Greek Island With 60 Beaches (& an Airport!) Is The Perfect Summer Escape
Ferry Options from Mainland Greece
Unlike most of the Greek Islands, you can’t get to the Sporades by ferry from Athens. But ferries are available from Volos, Thessaloniki, Mantoudi (Evia), and Agios Konstantinos on mainland Greece.
The Volos to Skopelos route is one of the most popular, with several options daily during peak season.
Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.
Where to Stay on Skopelos Island
Skopelos is compact, but choosing the right base depends on your vibe. Here are the top areas to stay:
- Skopelos Town (Chora)
- Glossa
- Beachfront (Panormos, Agnontas, and Stafylos)
For convenience, most visitors choose to stay in Skopelos Town (as we did).
It’s a beautiful harbor town built on a hill, known for its traditional architecture, lively tavernas, quaint shops, and easy access to boat trips around the islands.
You won’t need a car if you’re based here.
Best Hotels in Skopelos Town
Thea Home Hotel – This is where we stayed. Friendly, family-run spot with incredible views over Skopelos Town, comfy rooms, and a great pool. Our one-bedroom suite was spacious and had an amazing view.
Just be warned that those fabulous views come with a steep walk up and down to town.
Tip: Do not try this with luggage (don’t ask me now I know that!).
Skopelos Village Hotel – For luxury, this is my top pick in Skopelos Town.
Hotel Dionyssos – Affordable with a great pool, close to the action.
Best Hotels in Glossa
Located in the northwest of the island, the village of Glossa is perched on a hillside with narrow streets and traditional homes. For a more local experience with quiet charm and scenic views, Glossa is a great choice.
And as I mentioned, it also has direct ferry access from Skiathos so it’s easy to reach. It’s also closer to the key Mamma Mia spots like Agios Ioannis Church. But you will need a car for exploring the beaches nearby.
Natura Luxury Boutique Hotel Skopelos – This is my luxury pick on the Glossa side of the island.
Pansion Platana – This traditional guesthouse is a terrific budget pick near Glossa.
Best Beachfront Hotels
The smaller coastal villages of Panormos, Agnontas, and Stafylos offer easy beach access and are a great pick for families. They have limited nightlife, but are perfect if you’re looking for a low-key spot to unwind by the sea.
Adrina Beach Hotel (Panormos) – 4-star resort right on the beach with gorgeous views and a private beach.
Mando Beachfront (Stafylos) – Located near two of the island’s best beaches, all rooms at this tranquil guesthouse have beautiful sea views. The grounds and gardens here are so beautiful they’re also a popular spot for weddings.
The Akri House (Agnontas) – This 3-bedroom, 3-bath beach house just steps from lovely Agnontas Beach is a great choice for families. Bonus, one of my favorite restaurants on the island – Korali Seafood Restaurant – is right here, too.
How to Get Around Skopelos
Skopelos is larger and more rugged than neighboring Skiathos, which means getting around takes a bit more planning. But the rewards are worth it.
The island’s mountainous terrain and scattered villages mean you may want to choose a variety of transport options so see it all.
Boat Trips 🚤
A boat trip is one of the most beautiful ways to see the coastline of Skopelos—and that’s what my husband and I did for our first day on the island.
You’ll find organized boat tours departing from Skopelos Town and Panormos, many of which include stops at beaches only accessible by sea.
Some tours focus on nature and hidden coves, while others are geared toward visiting Mamma Mia filming locations from the water.
Rent a Car 🚗
On our second day, we rented a car to strike out on our own around Skopelos and visit the famous Mamma Mia sites like Agios Ioannis Kastri (the wedding church).
Renting a car gave us the flexibility to reach more remote locations, including mountainous villages and less-visited beaches.
Roads are paved but often steep and narrow—just take it slow and be cautious on curves. Gas stations are limited, so it’s smart to fill up when you can.
Local Bus 🚌
Skopelos does have a seasonal public bus service that connects Skopelos Town, Glossa, and popular beaches like Stafilos and Panormos.
Buses are affordable and scenic, but run on limited schedules, especially outside high season. Timetables vary and aren’t always posted online, so check with your hotel for the latest info.
Now that you know how to get around, let’s talk about the best things to see and do on Skopelos.
Best Things to Do in Skopelos
1. Visit Mamma Mia Filming Locations 🎥
This is the big draw for most visitors—and it’s every bit as fun as it sounds.
Agios Ioannis Kastri – The cliffside chapel from the wedding scene. It’s a steep climb but the views are incredible.
Agios Ioannis Chapel is the charming clifftop wedding venue for Sophie and Sky, as well as where Donna and Sam say “I do.”
The interior scenes were filmed elsewhere, but if you loved the movie, you’ll definitely recognize the cliff and chapel exterior.
Kastani Beach – Filming location for several beach scenes. Tucked beneath a pine-covered hill, Kastani Beach shines with crystal-clear waters and fine pebbles.
In fact, I consider this cinematic beauty one of the top 15 beaches in Greece.
Read More: 15 Stunning Beaches in Greece Worth Planning an Entire Trip Around
It’s the spot where Mamma Mia filmed several musical numbers including “Does Your Mother Know” and “Lay All Your Love on Me.” There’s a large beach club here where you can lounge on sunbeds or snorkel off the shore to spot colorful fish.
To explore the Mamma Mia sites, you can rent a car and DIY it (like we did). Or hop on one of the day trips that cover all the highlights with some lively ABBA tunes on the side.
Few things beat cruising around Skopelos on a Mamma Mia boat tour. Local captains share film trivia as you swim in hidden coves that starred in your favorite scenes.
When it comes to land-based movie tours, these are the two most popular tours to book:
2. Wander Skopelos Town
Skopelos Town is one of the prettiest island ports in Greece. Stroll the maze of whitewashed lanes and visit local artisan shops or enjoy harborfront dining with views of the fishing boats.
Narrow alleys are lined with whitewashed houses and bougainvillea.
Pop into the Archaeological Museum to see artifacts that span millennia and remind you this island has stories beyond the movie. Then hike up to the Venetian Castle ruins for sweeping views over red-tiled roofs and the Aegean Sea.
3. Explore the Beaches
Skopelos is a beautiful island with some of the cleanest, most tranquil waters in the Aegean Sea. In addition to Kastani (a must-see!), here are a few more great beaches to visit:
Panormos Beach – Long, pebbly, and perfect for swimming. Panormos offers a gentle curve of golden sand framed by rocky cliffs and whispering pines. A handful of beach bars serve cold drinks and fresh seafood right on the sand.
Stafylos Beach – Stafilos greets you with shallow waters and soft sand that roll gently into the sea. Tucked behind it lies a shaded forest, ideal for midday breaks. Paddleboards and kayaks line the shore so you can explore the nearby coves.
Velanio Beach – Velanio’s clear shallows and small coves make it feel like a private slice of the Aegean. You’ll need a short hike down a rugged path, which keeps the crowds at bay. Once you arrive, you’ll have ample room to spread out and soak in the view.
Milia Beach – Milia spreads out under olive groves and offers sunbeds and umbrellas on a wide sandy shore. The water stays shallow for meters, making it a safe haven for kids. Beachside tavernas here grill fresh fish while you watch the horizon.
Skopelos isn’t a sandy beach paradise like Mykonos or Paros, but the crystal-clear waters and pine-shaded coves more than make up for it.
4. Visit Historical Sites
History lovers shouldn’t miss:
Monastery of Evangelistria – A peaceful mountaintop retreat with panoramic views
Folklore Museum of Skopelos – Small but insightful look at local traditions and crafts
Churches – The island has more than 360! Start with the photogenic ones near the harbor
5. Hike Through the Pine Forests
The interior of Skopelos is surprisingly green. In fact, it’s the greenest of the Sporades islands.
Well-marked trails lead through forested hills, olive groves, and mountain chapels. Bring good shoes and water—it can get hot in summer. Also keep an eye out for snakes (we saw two crossing the road on our drive!).
6. Try the Famous Skopelos Cheese Pie
Don’t leave Skopelos without trying the local delicacy: Skopelos pie (Strifti).
No visit to Skopelos is complete without tasting the famous Skopelos pie. This spiral shaped golden hand-rolled phyllo pastry is filled with a savory mix of local cheese, wild herbs and spinach picked from nearby groves.
You’ll find it at every bakery in Skopelos town and Glossa village but Mixalis Bakery in Skopelos Town is considered the best on the island. Best enjoyed warm with a cold frappé on the side.
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Tip: Ask a local where they get theirs—everyone has a favorite spot.
7. Take a Day Trip to Alonissos
If you’re spending a few days on Skopelos, carve out time for a day trip to Alonissos, the next island over. It’s easy to reach by ferry (just 30–45 minutes).
Alonissos is quieter and wilder, home to the National Marine Park of the Northern Sporades, a protected area for monk seals and dolphins.
Wander the hilltop Old Town, swim at Agios Dimitrios Beach, and grab lunch by the sea in Patitiri.
Tip: This Daily Sailing Tour from Skopelos to Alonissos is one of the most popular day trips on the island.
So live your Mamma Mia dream on Skopelos!
Skopelos isn’t the easiest island to reach, but that’s part of its charm. The island rewards your effort with uncrowded beaches, an authentic local vibe, and just the right dose of movie-star sparkle.
Whether you’re chasing down Mamma Mia filming spots, swimming in sapphire seas, or sipping ouzo in a harbor taverna, Skopelos has that “it” factor—without trying too hard.
Once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite island for so many who make the journey. Just don’t be surprised if you catch yourself humming ABBA for the rest of your trip.
Looking for more fabulous Greek Islands to visit? Start here:
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The 7 Best Greek Islands for Beaches (You’ve Never Heard of #4)
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7 Reasons Naxos is the Best Greek Island (for pretty much everything)
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