Samos

Samos

  • About Samos

    Beautiful beaches combine with small pretty villages built on mountains slopes creating a near perfect holiday environment. The island of Samos, known as the Isle of the Blessed, is the eighth biggest Greek island and lies in the heart of the Aegean. Shaped like a peninsula, it has the highest mountain in the Aegean, Mount Kerkis, which offers superb opportunities for climbing. Elsewhere Samos is a perfect retreat for those who enjoy walking and nature, including a wonderful variety of flora scattered amidst pine forests, pleasant hills, valleys, olive groves and vineyards. For sun seekers and beach lovers there are sheltered coves and golden sandy beaches to explore.

  • Climate

    Samos has a classic Aegean temperate climate, mild in summer and cooler in winter. It's ideal for those seeking pleasant moderate conditions. North and North West winds blow all year long, ensuring temperature rarely exceed 30 degrees Celsius.

  • Did You Know?

    Samos is the birthplace of the great Greek philosophers Pythagoras and Epicurus. The fable writer Aesop is one of many other legendary Greek figures to have been born here.

  • Archaeological attractions

    Eupalinus Tunnel, Pythagorion

    Said to be the eighth wonder of the ancient world this 4,000 feet long tunnel was excavated by hand through a mountain of solid limestone in 550 BC.

    The Temple of Hera, the Heraion

    A major site featuring the original temple to Hera. It also includes the remains of a Roman temple and settlement and many other small temples.

    The Archeological Museum, Samos

    Important treasures here include a marble statue of Kouros (young man). The largest Kouros statue in Greece, it's three times life-size and weighs 4.5 tonnes.

  • Poseidon Adventure

    In Greek Mythology Samos is reputed to be the home of Poseidon, god of the sea, and also of Dionysus, god of wine and merriment.

  • Nature Attractions

    Potami Falls and Gorge

    Near Potami Beach is a wonderful gorge and waterfalls. A wooded walk and hillside tavern can also be enjoyed.

    Manolates and The Valley of the Nightingales

    In North of Samos, between Karlovassi and Kokkari, lies the beautiful Valley of the Nightingales where these beautiful birds sing their hearts out. One of the best walks on the island.

  • Wine

    The history of wine and especially muscat wine is synonymous with Samos. Vineyards are believed to have existed here for thousands of years. Consequently some of the local wine is highly regarded.

  • Places

    Kambos of Marathokampos

    Popular tourist area 55 km South West of Samos town with lively nightlife and splendid beaches to enjoy. Near to mount Kerkis for those who want to explore the mountain region.

    Samos Town

    The commercial centre of the island on the North East coast combines modern town life with quaint old town buildings. This cosmopolitan blend is very popular with discerning tourists.

    Kokkari

    Traditional Greek fishing village to the North. Includes some pleasant nightlife, with several good restaurants and bars, set around the picturesque village square. Several good beaches nearby include Tsamadu and Tsambu.

    Karlovasi

    Capital of the island and a major commercial port which connects Samos to Pereaus and other islands in the North Aegean. There are excellent beaches nearby.

    Pythagorio

    Popular resort in the South which includes a large pretty port, awash with sailing boats. From here boats go to nearby Ephesus in Turkey, as well as Aegean island destinations. There are lots of bars and commercial buildings and several decent archaeological attractions nearby.

  • Getting There

    Samos airport is just 3km from Pithagorio. Taxis are available to take you into town.

    The main port of Samos is at Vathi, also known as Samos. The other major ports are Karlovassi and Pithagorio. Regular ferries go from Vathi and Pithagorio with connections to all the North Aegean islands. Daily ferries also go to Kousadasi in Turkey in summer.