Samos Island: Our 10 highlights for your holiday

Lush green and scenically diverse is the Greek island in the East Aegean. Samos Island is considered the perfect destination for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts and epicureans. But beach lovers also get their money’s worth!

“Spring on Samos shows its most beautiful side. Yellow gorse and red poppies bloom along the roadsides, and Samos is green everywhere. Nature lovers will immediately feel at home on the island, which is rich in vegetation.”

Two high mountain ranges stretch across the eighth largest island in Greece. On its northern slopes lie fertile plains and dense forests. In between, quaint mountain villages with traditional taverns are hidden, which invite you to take a break after an extended Samos hike.

The fertile vineyards reveal one of the island’s most precious treasures. Even today we revel in the memory of the Wine from Samos, which was a real taste experience for us.

Lively coastal towns, such as Vathy, Kokkari and Pythagoreio, offer everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires. Beach vacationers cavort on the numerous beaches and bays, most of which are covered with gravel or stones.

If you want to explore the island on your own, take a look at our Samos Highlights. Let’s start our discovery tour across the island.

#1 The lively coastal town of Kokkari

The village of 1,000 souls on the north coast of Samos is firmly in the hands of tourism. Unfortunately, we looked in vain for authentic Greek flair here. Even though Kokkari’s alleys are quite photogenic, the townscape is mainly adorned with souvenir shops, beach bars and taverns, which cater for crowds of holidaymakers in the season.

On the pebble beach of Kokkari, no sun lounger is left unused at the end of May. A walk along the eastern waterfront promenade is worthwhile. Here you will find the upstream boulders “Cavos” the postcard motif of Samos.

On the other hand, you can save yourself a look in the other direction, because directly behind Kokkari is the combined heat and power plant of the island of Samos. With its sooty chimneys, it is a real eyesore on the otherwise beautiful coastal strip and, depending on the wind direction, the smell also moves directly into the village.

In the evening, the Platia of Kokkari is the “place to be” for a glass of wine or a cocktail, accompanied by live music. However, you shouldn’t be too late, because the coveted places are rare. By the way, the name “Kokkari” describes a small type of onion (shallot) in Greek and can be traced back to the earlier cultivation of the tuber in this area.

#2 Samos Idyllic Mountain Villages

If you are tired of the touristy coastal towns, then a detour to the mountains of Samos is worthwhile. Behind numerous serpentines in the middle of dense forests, two pretty villages are hidden, which not only guarantee fantastic views over the north coast.

Vourliotes Samos

On the northern slope of the Ambelos Mountains, the village of Vourliotes, with its 500 inhabitants, is a real feast for the eyes. Shutters, doors and facades shine in the various colors, cats doze in the midday heat and raffia chairs invite you to take a short rest.

In the village square, quaint taverns serve traditional Greek meze. During a walk through the narrow streets, time seems to stand still. From up here, the view extends over green vineyards down to the deep blue Aegean Sea.

In summer, Vourliotes is also crowded at lunchtime, when hikers, mountain bikers and tourist groups invade the small village. In the evening it gets a little quieter and you can end the day here in a relaxed way.

Manolates Samos

A few kilometers further west, you will reach the artists’ village of Manolates. All kinds of shops with pottery and handicrafts offer tasteful souvenirs of the island of Samos. In addition to handicrafts, the approximately 130 inhabitants of Manolates, similar to Vourliotes, live primarily from wine and fruit growing.

The photogenic alleys are a wonderful place to stroll, while your gaze wanders down to the sea again and again. The local taverns have adapted to tourists, offering Greek and international food.

Directly below Manolates lies the idyllic Nightingale Valley of Samos. The grove lined with plane trees is a popular hiking paradise on Samos and offers welcome cooling on hot summer days.

A beautiful hiking tour described in the Samos travel guide (View on Amazon*) leads from Vourliotes via Manolates, through the Nightingale Valley down to the coastal village of Platanakia/ Agios Konstantinos.

#3 Wine from Samos: A New Era

What a taste experience! Lovers of dry, fruity wine should not miss a visit to a Samos winery. We’re not talking about the classic Samos wine, a well-known sweet dessert wine made from the Muscat grape, but the fine wines that three independent wineries in Samos have recently been producing.

Viticulture in Samos has a very long tradition and probably dates back to ancient times. Especially on the fertile north coast, the vineyards stretch up into the mountains.

The dominant grape variety is the white nutmeg grape, from which, for example, the well-known fortified wine Samos Nectar is made. In the meantime, however, dry wines are also offered by the Samos winegrowers’ cooperative.

A visit to the Vakakis winery

After a years-long court case, the Vakakis winery on Samos finally managed to become independent of the winegrowers’ cooperative and market its own wines independently.

We were there for a spontaneous tasting and did not regret our visit! The winery of the Vakakis family is located north of Karlovasi in the mountain village Megali Lakka.

In an old stone house, the very informative and personal tasting instead of. From the two lovely ladies Sania and Aggeliki we received a lot of background information about viticulture on Samos and were allowed to taste several varieties. The wines were accompanied by delicious small cheese appetizers, tomatoes and olives.

The winery relies on organic farming and cultivates grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Fokiano, Augustiatis and Black Muscat in addition to the classic Muscat grape.

So far, it has been really rare that we really liked all the wines from a winery. Our favorite by far was the Rosé wine “Pyramid”, which had an unmistakable rose aroma. Well chilled as a light summer wine, it is simply delicious!

Since we stocked up on Vakaki’s wines, we didn’t have to pay anything for the tasting, otherwise 5 euros would be due. An advance notification for tasting is recommended, as the winery also welcomes bus tours and holiday groups in summer.

The Vakakis winery sells four dry wines, two semi-dry varieties and three dessert wines. The bottle prices for the dry wines start from about 8 € and go up to 14 € for a dessert wine.

#4 An afternoon in Karlovasi

The harbour town on the north coast with its almost 7,000 inhabitants is the second largest city on Samos. Due to its five different districts, Karlovasi (also Karlovassi) seems a bit absent-minded and may not necessarily inspire everyone right away.

Nevertheless, it is worth taking a detour for a coffee or an afternoon walk to immerse yourself in Greek everyday life. Leaving behind the disused tanneries and tobacco factories of the unadorned Ormos district, you will enter the district behind the magnificent church of Agios Nikolaos in Neo Karlovasi. Here in the city center beats the heart of the coastal town today.

On the beautiful Platia Valaskatzi one café bar follows the other, students use the break times for a cool Freddo Cappuccino. The town hall adjoins the square and behind it an old residential district with photogenic houses and alleys.

Even more original architecture awaits you further west in Paleo Karlovasi. The focal point of the oldest district, founded in the 16th century, is the pretty church of Agia Triada, which is enthroned on a rocky outcrop above the port city.

You should also plan a detour to the harbor district if you are a fan of street art. In the district Limenas Karlovasi creative graffiti and a cozy waterfront promenade where you can watch the ship traffic await you on many corners.

You can get delicious Italian ice cream in the most tempting varieties at the Luigi Gelateria Samos. In addition, the friendly staff offers other sweet pieces, pies, cakes and other treats. Here we were floating in seventh ice heaven!

Excursion to Potami Waterfalls

A good swimming opportunity near Karlovasi is offered by the Potami Beach with its striking chapel of Agios Nikolaos. On the pebble beach, you can relax with a cool drink at the Hippis Beach Bar.

If you walk from the beach into the shady river valley, you will reach a gorge via a footpath. Depending on the water level, we continue swimming through a water basin to the Potami Waterfalls.

Most visitors stop at the first waterfall, behind it there are two more to see, but their exploration requires appropriate climbing knowledge. Bathing shoes are a good choice for the hike!

#Schöne beaches in Samos

We didn’t really find Samos to be a classic beach paradise, but the island is more of a Eldorado for active tourism instead of beach holidays. Nevertheless, there are also numerous bays and operated beaches on Samos, most of which consist of coarser stones or gravel.

A few pieces of jewellery are also covered with fine sand. The water is usually very clear on the coast, only in the east is more garbage washed up by the ocean current. On which Samos beaches we particularly liked it, we tell you below:

Mikro Seitani and Megalo Seitani

Probably the two dream beaches of the island, which can only be reached by boat or on foot. The two natural Samos beaches are located in the far northwest and are made of fine sandy beach where the crystal clear water sparkles turquoise blue.

In front of the mountain village of Kosmadei, a concrete track branches off down to the coast. You can only drive on it with an off-road vehicle or quad. You park your vehicle at a stopping bay and walk the last few kilometers to the two “Devil’s Beaches” with sturdy shoes.

In summer, you will often meet at Megalo Seitani wild campers and nudists, who can drop their covers here completely undisturbed. With small children, the Mirko and Megalo Seitani are only recommended to a limited extent, as there can be very strong waves here, depending on the wind strength.

Psili Ammos

The name Psili Ammos (= fine sand) says it all. In the very southwest of Samos behind Marathokampos lies the beautiful sandy beach, which is also Golden Beach . The long stretch of beach was already well frequented at the end of May, parasols and sunbeds are provided by the beach bars on site. The Psili Ammos slopes pleasantly gently into the clear sea and is also suitable for families with children due to its wind-protected location.

Livadaki Beach

The hidden bay with its turquoise blue water is located in the very northeast of Samos. The hip Beach bar at Livadaki Beach offers a cozy lounge atmosphere and plenty of space to chill out.

The golden sandy beach slopes very gently into the sea and is therefore also suitable for little water rats. Unfortunately, garbage washes up in the bay from time to time, which is collected daily by the operators of the beach bar.

The approach to Livadaki Beach is via a somewhat bumpy gravel road, which branches off shortly before the village of Agia Paraskevi. With our small car, we made it safely there and back at walking speed.

Lemonakia Beach

In the north, not far from Kokkari, lies this beautiful beach with round-cut coarse stones and crystal clear water. In the height of summer, Lemonakia Beach is very busy. Parasols and sunbeds are available for an additional fee. Showers and toilets are also available. Beach taverns provide cool drinks and snacks.

At least as beautiful is the adjoining Tsamadou Beach. Here, too, there is a lot going on in the season and the pebble beach is eagerly cultivated. There is also a section where nudism is tolerated.

#6 Stopover in Mytilene

Inland, between Kokkari and Pythagorio, lies the village of Mytilene, which was once founded by inhabitants of the island of Lesbos. The third largest settlement of Samos has about 2,000 inhabitants and has so far been rather little developed for tourism.

A short stopover in the afternoon or evening is worthwhile. In the centre of Mytilene, the tranquil Platia culinary delights you. Under a huge plane tree there are colorful raffia chairs, locals enjoy their Greek coffee and watch the children play.

We stayed in the cozy Tavern To magazaki pou legame deliciously dined and enjoyed the authentic atmosphere of the Greek small town.

Curious animal encounters in the Natural History Museum

On the southern outskirts of Mytilene, embark on a journey into prehistoric times at the Paleontological Museum of Samos. History buffs will come across numerous fossil finds of mammal species from the island.

Among other things, bone finds of elephant species, giraffes, rhinoceroses and hyenas, which were native to the Asian-Indian continent millions of years ago, are impressive. Proof that the island of Samos was once connected to the mainland of Asia Minor.

The most famous exhibit is the Kaplani of Samos. The leopard-like feline predator probably swam through the strait to the island in the 19th century and was killed there by hunters. Today, the Kaplani stands stuffed in a glass case and is the reason why numerous Greek visitors in particular stop by the natural history museum.

#7 In the alleys of Pythagorio

We liked the pretty harbour town in the south of Samos right away. Even though everything in Pythagorio is now geared towards tourism, you can still feel the original charm of the small town, which was built on the ruins of the ancient city of Samos.

Along the bulbous harbor pier it is very busy. Dozens of taverns and cafés vie for the favor of holiday guests. Souvenir shops and handicrafts have settled in the back streets.

Before a long walk through the city, it is worth taking a coffee break away from the hustle and bustle in the cozy Efzin Beach Cafe (Ευ Ζην). With a cool Freddo Cappuccino including a sea view, you can relax here and watch the hustle and bustle on the shore.

Take your time to stroll a little through the picturesque alleys of Pythagorio. Many house entrances and streets have been lovingly painted and colorful bougainvillea shines everywhere. During our visit in spring, magnificent oleanders bloomed throughout the city.

Between history and modernity

Particularly photogenic is the blue lane of Pythagorio (also called The Blue Street) in the far south below the ruins of an old Byzantine church. The residents of the holiday resort have come up with a lot of ideas to attract visitors.

Directly behind it, the city tells its story. The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis including the watchtower was built during the Ottoman occupation around 1824. From the ruins of the freely accessible fortress you have a magnificent view of the bay of Tigani.

By the way, from up here you can also see the curious landing and take-off maneuvers of the planes that land just a few meters above the beach at Samos Airport.

If your stomach growls after exploring the city and you feel like creative Greek cuisine, then be sure to check out the Restaurant Pergamonto over. It serves delicious Mediterranean dishes and local craft beer in an idyllic setting.

#8 The Tunnel of Eupalinos

It is always unbelievable what mathematical and geometric knowledge people already had in pre-Christian times. The Eupalinos Tunnel was built around the 6th century BC and was used as a water tunnel probably in operation for over 1,000 years.

It was built by the Greek engineer Eupalinos Megara, after whom the building was named. The completion of the tunnel took about 8-15 years, with about 15 cm of digging per day.

The Eupalinos Tunnel was intended to water supply of the ancient city of Samos which was once home to tens of thousands of people and is now home to the popular resort of Pythagorio. In the 7th century AD, the aqueduct on the slope of Mount Kastri was probably abandoned.

A wonder of the ancient world

Due to its age, the 1,036 m long tunnel is a real wonder of the world and a Masterpiece of engineering. It bores through the massive rock of the Ampelos Mountains to a spring, which can be visited today on a tour (with advance reservation).

The Eupalinos Tunnel was open to visitors again when we visited at the end of May 2019. There will be three tours on which you can visit different sections of the tunnel. At that time, a complete inspection to the end was only possible by appointment.

We walked about 20 minutes to half of the tunnel and thus got a good insight into this ancient structure. You should get some basic information about the origin and former use of the Eupalinos Tunnel in advance, as the security staff only leads through the tunnel, but hardly gives any further information.

Who has Agoraphobia should only opt for the short inspection of 200 m or refrain from visiting. The height and width of the tunnel is only about 1.80 m and there is a cool temperature inside even in midsummer (take your jacket with you!).

Due to the uneven and slippery surface, sturdy shoes required. Construction helmets are provided as head protection.

• Opening hours: Wed.-Mon. 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Admission: 10 €, red. 5 €

Panoramic view from the monastery complex

You can breathe even more cool cave air in the Moni Spiliani Monastery. The well-kept complex is located just one kilometre east of the Eupalinos Tunnel and offers a fantastic view from the church square to the south coast of Samos and the neighboring island Fourni.

The highlight is the cave church of Panagia Spiliani, which lies in a cool grotto. On hot days, a short visit is a blessing. Light a candle and leave a small donation for the monks. Appropriate clothing is important in the monastery complex, so it is best to take a large cloth with you to cover your shoulders and bare legs.

Not far from the small complex is one of the most important ecclesiastical centres of Samos, the Timiou Stavrou Monastery. It is located in the mountains below the village of Mavratzei. The dome of the main church is striped blue and white – typical Samos. A real postcard motif!

#9 The Heraion of Samos

Where history grouches probably roll their eyes because of a few loose stones, there is something to do with the history on the largest archaeological excavation site of Samos.

The Heraion of Samos, together with the city of Pythagorio, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a significant attraction of the island of Samos.

In the famous sanctuary the Greek goddess Hera was worshipped. She is considered a symbol of fertility, is the patron goddess of the island of Samos and, according to tradition, was also born here.

On the site of the Heraion, about 7 km southwest of Pythagorio, you can see, among other things, the remains of a of the great Temple of Hera including a rebuilt column (colonna), which must once have been twice as high.

The entire excavation site seemed a bit left to nature during our visit and you need a lot of imagination to imagine the former extent.

During a walk through the complex, we discovered foundations of various temples, ruins of an early Christian basilica and an old Hera altar. Information boards in English and Greek provide further information about the individual components.

The paved one is well preserved Holy Road right at the entrance, which once connected the ancient city (Pythagorio) with the Heraion over a length of 6 km.

To escape the midday heat, a visit to the Heraion of Samos in the early morning hours is recommended. Further excavations on the site are still ongoing, although it comes to a standstill from time to time due to a lack of financial resources.

• Opening hours: Wed.-Mon. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Admission: 10 €, red. 5 €

#10 Hike to the cave church of Panagia Makrini

Far away from the tourist hustle and bustle, the locality of Kallithea in the far west of Samos an ideal starting point for hikes in the mystical Kerkis Mountains.

Even with children it won’t be boring, because in the middle of the mountains monks once built their hermitages in caves, which inevitably awaken the urge to explore.

A particularly fascinating little church is the Panagia Makrini, which was built in a huge cave. Equipped with a flashlight, you will discover ancient frescoes from the 14th century AD in the back of the church.

From the village of Kallithea, a farm road leads up to the white chapel of Agia Ekaterini. You can rest under a shady plane tree, a mountain spring provides hikers with fresh spring water.

With an all-terrain vehicle, you can also drive up to this point. But the last kilometer on foot is a tough one. The climb is steep, but the view from the forecourt of the cave church to the coast and the deep blue Aegean Sea compensates for the exertions.

If you’re working with a active tour group If you want to explore the island of Samos and its beautiful mountains on foot or by mountain bike, then you can find more information in our article: Active holidays in Samos

Beautiful souvenirs from the island of Samos

On the way back from Kallithea to Pythagorio, it is worth taking a break behind Marathokampos Detour over the mountains through the villages of Koumeika, Pyrgos and Koumaradei. In the latter, you can buy beautiful pottery and pretty souvenirs from the island.

In the shop “The Loom” in Koumaradei we were served particularly friendly by two ladies who offer, among other things, textiles, jam, olive wood and many other beautiful souvenirs.

More Samos tips for your holiday

Guided tours in Samos

If you don’t have your own vehicle on Samos and still want to get an overview of the island, then maybe this guided tour is the best option for you. You can book your day tour by bus from GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the organized island tour*

From the harbour in Pythagorio, traditional kaikis start in season on the small Samiopoula Island south of Samos. The uninhabited island offers fantastic beaches and a lot of Greek idyll. Here you can book the day tour directly via GetYourGuide* by boat including lunch:

➲ To the boat trip to Samiopoula*

Restaurant recommendations for Samos

San Antonakak, Kosmadei

Traditional tavern with local products in the remote mountain village of Kosmadei. Landlord Stelios offers hearty Greek home cooking on his cozy terrace with wine roof.

The atmosphere is authentic, the panoramic view of Karlovasi and the mainland of Asia Minor is magnificent! Park your vehicle at the entrance to the village and then follow the signs to the tavern on foot.

More recommendations for cafes and restaurants in Samos:

• Taverna Ydroussa, in Ydroussa
• Saloon, in Pyrgos
• Famprika Beach bar, in Ormos Marathokambou
• …

Want more restaurant tips for Samos?

→ In our Google map you will find all recommended cafés and taverns in Samos: To the Samos Map

Hotel tips for Samos

In addition to classic hotels for package vacationers, Samos also offers numerous accommodation for individualists. The larger towns of Karlovasi, Kokkari and Pythagorio are suitable locations for exploring the island. The bus connections are also reliable here.

If you are looking for some peace and quiet far away from the tourist hustle and bustle, the mountain villages also offer beautiful private accommodations, holiday homes and villas for you.

→ About Booking.com* you will find many accommodation in Samos and you can check prices here:

➲ To beautiful hotels on the island*

Our hotel tips for Samos

Enclosed we have put together a personal selection of beautiful accommodations in Samos for your dream vacation:

• Kalidon Panorama Hotel, Kokkari*
• Erato by Samian Mare, Karlovasi*
• Ino Village Hotel, Samos Town*
• Casa Cook (Adults only), Pythagorio*

Here we spent the night on Samos

Proteas Blu Resort, Pythagorio

The lovingly laid out 5-star hotel complex is located just outside Pythagorio and offers modern rooms as well as an in-house beach, including a great view of the sea and the Asia Minor coast. In addition to classic hotel rooms, bungalows and suites with pools are also offered. On Booking.com* you can find out more about the accommodation and book:

➲ To book at Proteas Blu Resort*

Getting around the island of Samos

The island of Samos measures about 44 km from west to east and about 19 km from north to south. Through the mountainous terrain a car or a quad from 150 cc is recommended. With a rental car you can explore the island on your own and visit so many beautiful places during your vacation. You can book your rental car with Discover Cars*:

➲ Book your rental car here*

Buses on Samos

The public bus network of Samos connects the larger towns and beaches in the north as well as the airport and Pythagorio in the south. You can find current timetables here: Bus Samos

Getting to the island of Samos

The international airport of Samos (SMI) is located in the south of the island near Pythagorio. At least once a week, there are direct flights from Munich, Düsseldorf and Hamburg to the island of Samos. The flight time is approx. 3 hours 15 minutes. Skyscanner* shows an overview of all direct flights to Samos:

➲ To cheap flights to the island*

Alternatively, you can also use the ferry from Piraeus arrive. The ferry time is about 8 hours. Samos has three ferry ports, from which Karlovasi and Vathy (Samos town) in the north are served by the ferry company Blue Star Ferries from Piraeus.

→ Current ferry routes to Samos as well as to the neighboring islands of the North Aegean and the Dodecanese can be found here:

➲ To the ferry search with Ferryhopper*

Pythagorio in the south is served by the catamarans of the Dodekanisos Seaways, which sail Samos with the Dodecanese Islands Connects. This makes Samos a great island hopping station to explore other islands such as Ikaria, Patmos and Leros. More information about island hopping can be found here: Island hopping Greece

Samos Youtube Video

Impressions of the island can be found in the video by Robert Polasek © :

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