The Kastro — Venetian-era fortifications built on the ancient acropolis — crowns the highest point of Skopelos Town. Only sections of the outer walls remain intact, but the climb to the top of the old town is worthwhile for the views: the harbor curves below, the pine-covered hills stretch in every direction, and on a clear day you can see Skiathos and the mainland mountains. From the kastro, 123 steps lead down through the old town — each one flanked by whitewashed houses with slate-grey roofs, a profusion of flowering pots, and the occasional church tucked into an alley.
The upper town around the kastro has a cluster of Byzantine-era churches that survived the Ottoman period in reasonable condition. Several are open to visitors, particularly around midday. The overall atmosphere in this part of town is quiet and genuinely lived-in — fewer tourists make it this far up.