Pick up souvenirs in Platanias
In Platanias, a 5-minute walk from Aghia Paraskevi, you’ll find a handful of shops and minimarkets selling souvenirs with an authentic slant, from glass eye beads to leather bracelets. If you’re really looking to splurge, a 10-minute taxi ride gets you to Skiathos Town. In the side streets between Papadiamanti Street and the old port you’ve got gift shops, where you’ll find cabinets heaving with jewellery, and model boats made from driftwood.The waters around Aghia Paraskevi are prime scuba diving territory – they’re so clear, you can spot the multi-coloured marine life up to 30 metres away. The dive centres in town offer everything from PADI courses for beginners to wreck dives, and even night dives, where you’ll come face-to-face with a nocturnal cast of sea creatures.
Read MoreIt’s a game of two halves at Platanias Taverna & Bar. On one side is a busy restaurant serving up authentic Greek eats. On the other is a laid-back bar with exposed brickwork and dark wood beams. It’s got local draught beers on tap, plus everything from Scottish whiskies to 7-star Metaxa brandy. And if it’s waking up you need, they do great cappuccinos, too.
Read MoreIf you can take time out from your tanning schedule, head to the watersports centre on Platanias Beach to pick from a selection of activities. You can skim the waves on a jet-ski, water-skis or a kayak. And if you fancy views of the coast from a height of 200 metres, give parasailing a whirl.
Read MoreWith just a handful of quiet tavernas and bars in Aghia Paraskevi, the clink of glasses and murmur of conversation is pretty much the sound of the nightlife here. At Dimitris’ Bar, there’s a weekly Greek night with a barbecue followed by bouzouki music and dancing. And for a change of scene, Platanias has a few bars where locals sip Metaxa and swap stories with holidaymakers.
Read MoreOrder a prawn saganaki, a lamb souvlaki, or fresh calamari from the terrace of this homely taverna and then watch the chef work his magic, as it’s got an open kitchen. Then, after your main course, you’ll be offered a complimentary dessert. You should be set for a few hours after a cinnamon-spiced baked apple, or mixed fruits with yoghurt and honey.
Read MoreThe whitewashed Aghia Paraskevi church, which gave this village its name, celebrates its saint’s day on 26th July. It kicks off with a ceremony inside the church where all the town folk light candles. Afterwards, in the shaded church grounds, you’ll find craft stalls, food stands, plus live bands which means only one thing – Greek dancing and endless rounds of ouzo.
Read MoreYou can’t beat Aghia Paraskevi’s tavernas for rustic appeal. Some have tantalising sea views, others are set back from the beach, and shaded by sycamore trees. On the menu you’ll find all the local staples like souvlaki kebabs, kleftiko lamb, and feta-flecked prawn saganaki. And if you’re looking for a refreshing wine, a chilled Boutari rosé should do the trick.
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