Sporades, Island group in Thessalia, Greece
The Sporades are an island group with eleven major islands scattered across the Aegean Sea, of which four are permanently inhabited: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros. Each inhabited island has its own character, with small coastal villages, olive groves, and rocky coves spread across the landscape.
The name comes from ancient Greek and means scattered islands, a distinction that reflects how these islands are spread out differently from the more clustered Cyclades to the south. This naming has remained constant since classical times.
Each island maintains its own maritime traditions, with local festivals celebrating fishing practices, grape harvesting, and traditional Greek dancing throughout the year. These events show how deeply the communities here are connected to the sea and the land around them.
You can reach the islands by flying into Skiathos Airport or by taking regular ferry services from mainland Greece, with daily connections running between the islands. Plan your trip around the season, as ferry frequency and availability change throughout the year.
The National Marine Park of Alonissos protects Mediterranean monk seals and offers designated viewing areas where you can watch these rare marine mammals in their natural environment. This is one of the few places in the region where you might encounter these endangered animals in the wild.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
