Greece Launches Groundbreaking Thirteen Point Nine Million Euros Investment To Transform Skiathos Into A Beautiful, Global Sustainable Tourism Powerhouse

Published on December 6, 2025

Greece has unveiled a bold €13.9 million investment plan aimed at transforming the idyllic island of Skiathos into a leading global destination for sustainable tourism. This strategic initiative seeks to enhance the island’s natural beauty, while implementing eco-friendly practices and preserving its rich cultural heritage. By focusing on sustainable infrastructure, green technologies, and responsible tourism, the project promises to significantly boost both the local economy and the environment, making Skiathos a model for sustainable development in the tourism sector.

A significant wave of transformation is set to hit the island with the launch of a comprehensive series of projects, backed by a total budget of €13,920,000. This ambitious plan was recently confirmed, marking the beginning of a new era for the island as it aims to evolve into a modern, smart, and sustainable tourism destination.

The projects are part of a broader strategy to position the island as a cutting-edge hub for tourism while focusing on sustainable growth, environmental protection, and enhanced infrastructure. The main objectives of the plan are to improve the quality of life for residents, make the island more resilient to environmental challenges, and lay the groundwork for a more competitive and sustainable tourism model.

The focus of the plan is clear: it is designed to upgrade the island’s infrastructure to cater to the needs of both residents and visitors. One of the most notable aspects of the plan is its alignment with sustainable practices, with a particular emphasis on environmental preservation. The projects also aim to create a more appealing and modern destination for tourists while ensuring that development is in harmony with the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The majority of the interventions are rooted in integrated spatial investment strategies, aimed at creating a cohesive and comprehensive tourism experience. These projects cover a wide range of areas, from infrastructure and water quality improvement to historical restoration and energy efficiency upgrades. Below are some of the key projects included in this transformative initiative.

Improvement of Water Quality:
Among the first set of projects is the installation of two reverse osmosis units designed to significantly improve the water quality on the island. Clean and safe water is essential for both the residents and the tourism industry, and this initiative will help ensure that the island can meet the demands of both while preserving its natural resources. This project is seen as a crucial step in ensuring the sustainability of the island’s tourism sector.

Repurposing of the Old Health Center:
In line with the aim of improving local infrastructure, the old health center will be repurposed to house educational facilities, specifically EPAL and EEEEK schools. This move will not only breathe new life into the building but will also support local education and community development. The conversion of the health center into a space for education is a positive move for both residents and visitors, reflecting the island’s commitment to providing a high standard of living for its residents.

Energy Upgrades of Buildings:
Energy efficiency is another central focus of the project. Various buildings across the island will undergo energy upgrades, ensuring they meet modern environmental standards. This initiative is part of the broader push to reduce the island’s carbon footprint while making its infrastructure more energy-efficient. Sustainable energy practices will help the island reduce its overall energy consumption and contribute to its long-term environmental sustainability.

Historical Restoration Projects:
The restoration of key historical sites is another integral part of the project. Notably, the Bourtsi building and Skiathos Castle will undergo restoration to preserve the island’s rich cultural heritage. These sites are significant attractions for tourists and restoring them will not only preserve their historical value but also attract more visitors. This step highlights the island’s commitment to blending modern development with the preservation of its cultural and historical identity.

Road Surfacing Projects:
Improving the road infrastructure is essential for enhancing the visitor experience. The provincial road network connecting Skiathos to Koukounaries will undergo resurfacing as part of the ongoing infrastructure upgrades. Well-maintained roads are key to providing smooth travel for both locals and tourists, particularly as the island sees an increase in visitors each year. This project will also help improve safety and accessibility for all.

Flood Protection Projects:
In addition to infrastructure and environmental upgrades, a €3,200,000 project for flood protection will soon begin. The project will focus on key areas, including Troulos, Achlades, Agia Paraskevi, and Koukounaries. These areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding, especially given the high volume of tourists the island attracts each year. This flood protection initiative will not only protect the local population but also ensure that the island remains a safe and resilient destination for tourists. It is a crucial step in preparing the island for the future, taking into account both the challenges posed by climate change and the island’s growing tourism sector.

Completion of Sewerage Systems:
A critical sewerage project in the areas of Troulos and Koukounaries is nearing completion. With a budget of €2 million, this project is vital for maintaining a clean and healthy environment. As the island attracts more visitors each year, maintaining proper sanitation is essential for preserving the island’s reputation as a top-tier tourist destination. This project is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for local residents while also ensuring that the environment remains pristine and attractive for tourists.

Digital Tourism and Smart Island Development:
Another exciting aspect of the transformation plan is the ongoing efforts to develop the island into a “Smart Island.” At a recent event titled “Life on a Smart Island,” the Municipality presented the digital tourism applications currently being implemented. These innovations are designed to enhance the visitor experience by providing information, services, and conveniences via digital platforms. The digital ecosystem being developed will streamline services for both tourists and residents, from real-time information on attractions to streamlined booking and transportation systems. Over the next two years, the island plans to introduce even more advanced digital tourism tools, cementing its status as a forward-thinking, smart destination.

Greece is investing €13.9 million to transform Skiathos into a global sustainable tourism hub, focusing on eco-friendly infrastructure and preserving the island’s natural beauty.

this comprehensive set of projects marks a transformative moment for the island. The €13,920,000 budget underscores the commitment to sustainable growth, improved infrastructure, and enhanced visitor experiences. As these initiatives unfold, the island is poised to solidify its reputation as a modern, smart, and environmentally-conscious destination, ready to meet the needs of both residents and the growing number of tourists it attracts.