Watching Meryl Streep sing on a Greek island is one thing; standing on that same rock, looking out over the Aegean, is another experience entirely. If you are a fan of the world’s most famous musical, you know that “Kalokairi” is more than just a place—it’s a feeling.
However, after years of hosting travelers at Porto Planet, we’ve seen many visitors arrive overwhelmed by ferry schedules, heat, and crowds. To help you plan your dream trip, we’ve put together the most comprehensive 10-day guide to living the Mamma Mia lifestyle—the right way.
Where was Mamma Mia Filmed?
While the movie makes it look like one single island, the filming actually took place across several stunning locations:
Skopelos Island: Home to the famous “wedding church” (Agios Ioannis Kastri).
Skiathos Island: Where the iconic scenes at the Old Port were filmed.
The Pelion Peninsula (Damouchari): The backdrop for the famous “Dancing Queen” sequence.
5 Insider Tips for the Perfect 10-Day Mamma Mia Journey
1. The Secret to Beating the Crowds at the “Wedding Church.”
The chapel of Agios Ioannis Kastri in Skopelos is the crown jewel of the film. But here is what the travel brochures don’t tell you:
The Climb: There are 199 steps. In the Greek July heat at 2:00 PM, it is a massive challenge.
The Secret: The best time to visit is exactly at 8:30 AM. The air is cool, the light is perfect for photos, and you can hear the sound of the sea instead of tourist chatter.
Our Approach: On our 10-day tours, we arrange early-morning private transfers so our guests can experience the chapel in peace before the large tour boats arrive.
2. Beyond the Movie: The Hidden Flavors of Skopelos
Most tours take you to the beach and leave you there. But if you have 10 days, you must taste the island!
The Famous Cheese Pie: You must try the “Skopelitiki Tiropita”—a spiral-shaped pie fried in local olive oil.
The Honey: Skopelos has a centuries-old tradition of beekeeping.
Insider Tip: We visit a local family-run grove where you can taste honey directly from the source—a detail that individual travelers often miss.
3. Skiathos: More Than Just a Port
Skiathos is where the “three fathers” first met. While the Old Port is stunning, the island has 60 incredible beaches.
Lalaria Beach: Accessible only by boat, this beach features a massive natural stone arch. It’s a masterpiece of nature.
The Logistics: Many solo travelers struggle with boat rentals. We include a private sailing day in our itinerary to ensure you see these hidden spots without the stress of navigating a rental yourself.
4. The 10-Day Advantage: Why Rushing is a Mistake
We often see people trying to “do” these islands in 48 hours. They spend most of their time on ferries.
The Porto Planet Philosophy: A 10-day journey allows you to actually feel the island. It gives you time to sit at a seaside taverna for three hours, drinking local wine and talking to the locals—just like Donna would have done.
The Athens Connection: By finishing your tour in Athens, you have a “safety net.” You can enjoy the islands until the last minute, knowing your transfer back to the capital is pre-arranged for your international flight home.
5. Essential Logistics for International Travelers
If you are flying from New York, Sydney, or London, the “last mile” of your trip is the hardest.
Domestic Flights: Don’t waste a whole day on a ferry from Athens. Take the 45-minute flight to Skiathos. It’s worth every penny.
Philoxenia (Hospitality): If you are traveling alone, having a local contact means you are never truly alone if a ferry is delayed or you need a last-minute recommendation.
Why We Created the 10-Day Mamma Mia Experience
We didn’t want to create another “bus tour.” We wanted to create a memory. Our 10-day curated journey is designed for the traveler who wants the magic of the movie but the comfort of a boutique, well-planned vacation. From the moment you land in Skiathos to your final sunset in Athens, we handle the details, so you can just… dance.