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Volos is the capital of the prefecture and is the first place that we should discover. Volos is a Thessaly city, built in Pagasitiko's Bay, near ancient Iolkos site and the foothills of Pilio Mountain. Three of the most beautiful villages of Pilion are definitely Milies, Vizitsa and Pinakates. Volos is beautiful place with a remarkable cultural activity. In 2004, Volos became an "Olympic City" since it hosted some football matches in the frame of Olympic Games, Athens, 2004. The games took place at the new modern Volos Stadium, built for the needs of the Olympic Games. Some of the city’s most popular places to visit are the following; Agios Konstantinos church, Volos railway station, Birth of Mary church, St. Nicholas church, entomological museum, Volos Castle, Goritsa Hill, Museum of Industrial History, Printing Museum and the famous tsipouradika. There are almost 600 tsipouradika giving to the city a special status. It is the city’s attraction for travelers of all ages and genders. There you can try raki, tsipouro and ouzo drinks by trying local delicacies too. If you belong to the sea lovers then you should absolutely visit Alikes. This is a sandy beach with clear crystal waters that has been awarded repeatedly. It is close to the city of Volos (9 km southeast side) and is an organized heaven with sunbeds and various cafes and restaurants. Anavros beach is located in the extension of Saint Constantine park and has also been awarded by the blue flag. Plakes beach is located at the exit of the city and is popular for its cold and sharp waters. Gatzea Rivera is not a simple beach. It is a rock that has been converted to a multilevel beach bar. It is 16 km far from Volos and is a beautiful area with many restaurants. Koropis is an endless and lovely sandy beach 21 km far from Volos. Finally, Afissos is one of the most popular areas. It is a cosmopolitan destination with organized beaches such as  Ampovos and Kallifteri.

 Magnesia prefecture is known for its cultural history. It acquires several and very interesting options and attractions such as museums, archaeological sites and fantastic landscapes that you can visit. Most of them can be seen in Alonissos, Skiathos and Skopelos.  Alonissos is surrounded by the only national marine park in Greece. You can join one of the daily excursions by boat and if you're lucky enough, you'll admire dolphins, seals and turtles.  Most of Alonissos beaches are pebbly including Leptos Gialos (2 restaurants and sun beds), Steni Valla (the only beach that you can go by bus) and Agios Dimitrios. Try the local wine and Greek kitchen food such as Skopelos cheese pie, pasta with fresh lobster and sweet walnut pies. The nearest airport is located in Skiathos and from there you can take the ferry. You can also take a ferry from Volos and Agios Konstantinos.

Skiathos is another small island with various interesting sights. You can visit Bourtzi, a small peninsula with walls and cannons close to the port. It was used by Venetians as a citadel and still remains an unaffected place since the 13 century. The Church of the Annunciation Monastery is located 30 minutes away from Skiathos main town. The monastery houses many cats, dogs and birds that live here. Annunciation is also a small museum with various historical artifacts. Kounistra Monastery is far from the town, and you can only get there if you rent a car or make a daily a trip. Here, a monk found Virgin Mary’s icon hanging on a tree (17th century). After that, the monastery was built by taking the icon’s name. You can also visit the medieval Castle by boat or by car . Do not forget to visit the Church of Christ and the old houses. Skiathos offers a large number of beaches (about 60) but the suggested ones include Koukounaries (water sports, sun beds, restaurants, cafes), Mpanana (for nudists in one part), Agia Paraskevi (perfect choice for families and couples) and Lalaria (white pebbles, approached through a boat). You can arrive here by ferry boat from Volos and Agios Konstantinos. An airport is also available while you can also come by ship from Thessaloniki (twice a week). 

Skopelos is another picturesque island of Sporades with many small churches (approximately 360) and old houses. If you come here you should absolutely go to Glossa village. This place may remind you Santorini island since it is built on a steep hill facing the sea. From this point you can also have a romantic view towards Skiathos. Skopelos beaches are pebbly except from Limnonari. You can go to Glisteri by boat while nudists can go to Velanio beach. If you get hungry try the local cheese pie as well as walnut pie. The island has several great restaurants with local delicacies that you should absolutely taste.

You can arrive here from Skiathos by ferry boat (45 minutes). You can also approach the island by ferry boat from Agios Konstantinos and Volos. 

 

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