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After seeing beautiful azure seas and twinkling sands lighting up the silver screen this summer, cinema-goers everywhere will be wondering which Greek island provided the beautiful back-drop for the film version of Broadway smash-hit Mama Mia. Call off the search now, Skiathos is where the movie's most stunning scenes were set! Avoid the crowds of packed tourist buses this summer and hire a car. Renting a car makes perfect sense in Skiathos. Instead of following the obvious trail, you'll be free to explore your own favourite places, whether you're desperate to photograph the striking blue and white hilltop churches or bask on the sweeping sands of the picture-perfect beaches.

Skiathos Mini Guide:

The tiny Greek island of Skiathos is situated in the westernmost reaches of the Sporades island group. Despite its small scale, Skiathos manages to be one of the most popular Greek Islands and it's easy to see why.

Things To See/Do in Skiathos:

When you reach the island capital, it's worth hopping outside of your rental vehicle and taking a walk around Skiathos Town. The island capital is situated in the southeastern part of the island and boasts a picturesque port, complete with colourful fishing boats. Back behind the steering wheel though, you'll find a hire car is the best way to explore what the rest of the island has to offer in terms of exciting excursions. Most villages and beaches are within a short drive of Skiathos Town. Along the way you're guaranteed to discover hidden gems like secluded beaches, picturesque walks and secret, scenic valleys. Almost all of Skiathos's beaches offer butter soft sand and pleasant shallow waters, making them a sun-worshipper's paradise. Be sure to check out Koukounaries Beach, situated 10km from the island capital. The famous beach is renowned for its powdery white sands and highly fragrant pine forest.

Eating Out in Skiathos:

Being an island, fish and seafood are definitely on the menu in Skiathos. Local specialities worth a try include stuffed squid. Elsewhere, you'll find Greek staples such as Greek Salad, Moussaka and Kleftiko to be prevalent at traditional tavernas just about everywhere. Those with simpler tastes will be relieved to learn that there is also a good range of international eateries and fast food restaurants offering familiar favourites. Eating out can be as cheap or expensive as you want to make it. As a general rule, it's best to avoid the obvious tourist traps if you've got a budget to adhere to. Simple dishes favoured by the locals are always good options.

Day Trips/Events in Skiathos:

In Skiathos, a hire car opens up an otherwise unseen world of impressive monasteries, like the one at Moni Evangelistria and ornate frescoes at Kastro. Let your Skiathos car hire experience take you through lush pine forests, dappled olive groves and windswept unspoilt countryside.

Skiathos isn't short on festivals and events. A series of special events are held at the 'Bourtzi' district of the island capital throughout the summer including open-air theatre shows and music events.