Skiathos in October

The island shuts through the month, week by week, rather than on one date.

3 October is the marker. The bus drops back to every 30 minutes, the same frequency it opened on in May. Most resort businesses close in the first half of the month, and the season proper ends in mid-October.

After that the island is effectively closed for tourism until April. Resort infrastructure shuts, international charter flights finish, and Skiathos goes to domestic flights and the year-round ferries only.

Early October is the part worth booking. The sea is still 21°C, warmer than May, because water lags air by about two months. Days reach about 21°C with six hours of sun. Enough tavernas and beach operations are running for a normal holiday, and prices have dropped.

Late October is not. Expect the shutters going up, beach bars dismantled and choice narrowing every week. October is also one of the four good walking months, alongside April, May and September.

Crowds: Quiet, closing down. Prices: Low — strong value.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Skiathos in October?

Typically 21°C by day and 12°C overnight, with 6 hours of sunshine a day and rain on about 7 days of the month, totalling 73mm. The sea sits at around 21°C.

How warm is the sea in Skiathos in October?

About 21°C. Swimmable, but you will notice going in. The shallow south-coast bays warm up fastest.

Is Skiathos open in October?

The island shuts through the month. Bus drops to every 30 minutes from 3 October; most resort businesses close in the first half.

Is October a good time to visit Skiathos?

A month of two halves. Early October is a bargain with a 21°C sea. Late October is a building site with the shutters going up.

How busy is Skiathos in October?

Quiet, closing down. Prices at this point in the year: low — strong value.