If you’re looking for the best things to do in Samos, I’ve got you covered. As a Greek local, I have spent a week hiking across Samos, exploring everything from its rugged coastline to its quietest mountain villages.
Samos is a lush paradise that perfectly blends our ancient history with stunning nature. Whether I was exploring the birthplace of Pythagoras, standing at the UNESCO Heraion, or reaching the summit of Mount Kerkis—at 1,434 meters (~4,705 feet)—this island is truly impressive.
From the turquoise waters of Potami Beach to the taste of our famous Muscat wine, here is how to experience the very best of this emerald island.
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Top Resources for Your Samos Visit
Where to Stay:
For the best mix of charm and convenience, I highly recommend staying in Pythagoreion. If you want a more “local” and lush experience, look for a boutique stay in Kokkari, such as the Kalidon Beach Hotel.
It is about 10 km (~6.2 miles) from the main port and offers that iconic Greek fishing village atmosphere without the heavy crowds of the capital.
Getting Around: Samos is a big island—roughly 477 sq. km (~184 sq. miles). While buses connect the main towns, you absolutely need to rent a car in Samos to reach the “hidden” mountain villages like Manolates or the secluded Seitani beaches.
How to Get to Samos in 2026
Samos is located in the heart of the Eastern Aegean Sea, sitting just a stone’s throw from the coast of Asia Minor. It is a large, mountainous island covering approximately 477 sq. km (about 184 sq. miles).
Its unique position makes it one of the few Greek islands where you are only 1 km (about 0.6 miles) away from Turkey at the narrowest point of the Mycale Strait.
Getting to Samos in 2026 is straightforward, with well-established air and sea connections from the mainland and neighboring islands.
| Method | Route | Duration | Frequency & Tips |
| Flight | Athens (ATH) to Samos (SMI) | ~1 hour | 3–5 daily flights. The airport is 4 km (~2.5 miles) from Pythagoreion. Book early for July/August. |
| Ferry | Piraeus to Samos, Vathi/Karlovasi | 8–12 hours | Daily year-round. These are large “Blue Star” ferries. Tip: Book a cabin if you take the overnight route. |
| International Ferry | Kusadasi (Turkey) to Samos | 45–90 mins | Daily in summer (May–Oct). A short ~30 km (~18.6 mile) trip. Perfect for a dual-country vacation. |
| Island Hopping | Ikaria or Fourni to Samos | 1.5–3 hours | 3–4 times weekly. Ideal for exploring the smaller, rugged islands of the North Aegean. |
| Small Plane | Thessaloniki (SKG) to Samos | ~1 hour | Daily in summer (May–Oct). A short ~30 km (~18.6 miles) trip. Perfect for a dual-country vacation. |
Amazing Things to Do in Samos, Greece
Samos is a diverse, beautiful island with many activities, whatever your interests are!
If you love the great outdoors, you will be thrilled by the endless choices of hiking trails and 45 lovely beaches. If you prefer cultural attractions and museums, there is plenty to see and visit.
These top 18 things to do in Samos should all make your bucket list!
1. Vathy, Samos Main Town
Vathy is a beautiful town and one of Samos’ main three ports. It is built amphitheatrically around Vathy Bay with red-tiled roofs.
As you wander around the town, you will be charmed by the neoclassical and Venetian-era buildings.
Around the port, you will find plenty of cafes and taverns where you can enjoy the combination of fresh seafood and panoramic sea views.
If you love museums, then near the port you can visit the archaeological museum of Vathy with artifacts from prehistoric times to Hellenistic times (open daily except Tuesdays between 8.30-15.30, entrance fee €4).
Head up to the Ano Vathy neighborhood and see the charming church of Ai-Giannaki, a splendid architectural structure from the post-Byzantine period.
Looking for an incredible stay in Samos? Check out Ino Village Hotel!
2. Samos Pythagorion Village
11 km (~6.8 miles) south of Vathy, you will find Pythagorion village, where the ancient main city of Samos used to be.
This is the second port of Samos, a favorite for yachts and cosmopolitan vessels, and the most picturesque village on Samos.
It was named after the famous philosopher and scientist Pythagoras. Do not miss visiting his impressive statue on the east part of the pier.
Must-visit in Pythagorion:
- Blue Street, where everything is painted blue and white
- The magnificent archaeological museum of Pythagorion with thousands of exhibits from the excavations in the area (open daily except Tuesdays between 8.30-15.30, entrance fee €6)
- The gorgeous, organized beach of Pythagorion
- The archaeological site of Thermes or Roman baths
- The ice cream shop of Storia Dolce
If you would like to stay in Pythagorion, a great hotel with a swimming pool and near the beach is Nisea Hotel Samos.
3. Ancient Pythagorion and Heraion
Heraion, also known as the Temple of Hera, was built c. 570-560 BC on top of previous smaller temples also dedicated to Hera. It was a huge temple with dimensions of 52.5 x 105 meters and 155 pillars, 18 meters high.
Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, mentions that the Heraion of Samos was the largest temple in Greece. Today, only one pillar is still standing.
According to the myth, the location for Heraion was chosen as Hera was born in that spot (under a wicker tree, the sacred tree of Heraion) and it was there that she married Zeus.
The archaeological site is open daily except Tuesdays between 08:30 – 15:30 with €6 general entrance.
Besides that ancient site, the nearby coastal village is also called Heraion. It has 849 inhabitants and significant tourist development, with an organized beach, hotels, and several shops.
Other Heraion Sanctuaries in Greece can be found:
- Near Loutraki town in the Peloponnese, in an area called Perachora, you can find the Temple of Hera or Hera Akraia temple.
- In Argos town, Peloponnese, there is a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, the patroness of the city-state of Argos.
- The Temple of Hera inside the Ancient Olympia Archaeological site.
- The Temple of Hera on Corfu Island.
4. Must-Visit Spot in Samos: Tsamadou Beach
Tsamadou is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Samos. It is located 2 km west of Kokkari, in a protected bay with turquoise waters surrounded by vertical, green hills.
It is a pebbly beach with rather deep waters so if you have children, keep an eye on them.
A part of the beach is organized with umbrellas, sunbeds, showers, and a canteen, while the eastern part is an official nudist beach. If you are visiting between July and August, the beach is going to be very busy.
5. Village of Kokkari
Kokkari is a gorgeous fishing village with a lovely beach, 10 km away from Vathy. It has small white houses with tiled roofs spread amphitheatrically around the bay.
The beach has fine pebbles and crushed shells with mesmerizing turquoise waters.
Note that it can be windy here too, which makes Kokkari a very popular surfing destination.
Kokkari is a fantastic place to make a base for your Samos vacations. Deja Blue Maisonette ll is a beautifully decorated house in a fantastic location, highly recommended!
6. Explore the Traditional Villages
Samos Greece, has more than 30 traditional villages, a good number of them in the mountains, and the rest are spread along Samos’ beautiful coastline.
Ambelos is located among abundant vineyards and greenery and if you take the 1.5 km path that starts from here and crosses the chestnut forest, you will end up at a beautiful waterfall.
Manolates has a paved square surrounded by small taverns and houses with colorful windows. You will love the pottery workshops and jewelry shops whose products are proudly displayed by the locals.
You will find resting points, cafes, and taverns in all villages no matter how small they are. I prefer those villages for my meals as they are quieter and more traditional-looking than the coastal ones, which are more tourist-developed.
7. Psili Ammos Beach
This is an ideal beach for families with small children as it has calm, shallow waters. It offers nature lovers some of the best things to do in Samos Greece!
As it is surrounded by high pine trees that reach the edge of the coast, you get to have shade, which you will highly appreciate during summer. The beach is also easily accessible and has many amenities, such as tavernas, sunbeds, and umbrellas.
From Psili Ammos beach, you can see the opposite coast of Asia Minor, since it is the closest point of Samos to Turkey!
8. Tunnel of Eupalinos (A Top Samos Landmark)
The Tunnel of Eupalinos – with an opening of 1.80×1.80 meters and is 1,036 meters long- is very close to Pythagorion town. It is the middle section of the aqueduct built circa 550 BCE.
The great architect and engineer Eupalinus designed the stunning tunnel for the ancient city of Samos, commissioned by the tyrant Polycrates.
This was a two-way tunnel, dug for 10 years simultaneously from both sides of the mountain, with remarkable precision, which was a significant achievement by the technological standards of the time.
Tips for visiting the Tunnel of Eupalinos
- Children younger than 14 years old are not allowed inside the tunnel.
- There are 3 routes to choose and you need to book your visit in advance, call here at +30 22730 62 813 or email us at amp@culture.gr.
- In places, the rocky floor is slippery and there is water dripping from the ceiling. For that reason, you will be given a disposable head cover and a helmet for your protection.
- You must also wear closed anti-slippery shoes.
- The average temperature will be around 16 °C, so you’d better have a light jacket with you.
- The authorities of the tunnel strongly advise the following groups not to enter the tunnel: overweight, claustrophobic, with cardiac or respiratory issues, or any mobility issues even small ones. If you do wish to go in, you will do so with your responsibility.
- You are not allowed to carry big bags with you, and on route 3, you are not allowed to carry any bag at all.
- Entrance is €8 to €10, depending on the route you will follow.
9. Mikro and Megalo Seitani Beaches
The Natura 2000 protected area around the beaches of Mikro and Megalo Seitani, makes them two of the most picturesque beaches in Greece. Quite possibly Mikro Seitani is one of the prettiest beaches on Samos island.
It has high cliffs, crystal clear blue waters, and small caves where the water enters, giving you a sense of total isolation.
In Megalo Seitani – apart from the magical beach – you will be impressed by the view of the Kakoperato Gorge, a very exciting hiking trail.
Neither beach has organized facilities and you will have to follow a 3km picturesque, yet slightly challenging in parts, hiking trail.
You can start from Potami Beach to get there, so make sure you have good walking shoes, salty snacks, 2 liters of water, sunscreen, and a hat with you.
Alternatively, you can go there by renting a boat.
10. Monastery of Panagia Spiliani
The Holy Monastery of Panagia Spiliani is one of the most famous places to visit in Samos Greece. It is located on the hill above Pythagorio, near the exit of the Eupalinos tunnel and the ancient theatre.
The monastery is built inside a cave and is dedicated to the Holy Mother. The specific cave has been used as a place of worship since ancient times. Experts even claim that Pythagoras had a philosophical school at the place where the monastery is built today.
As it is built at 120 meters high, you will also enjoy a wonderful view of Pythagorion and the sea. Free entrance.
11. Hiking Samos
Hiking enthusiasts will find 32 marked hiking trails of about 240 km (~149 miles) for all levels of hiking. This is the longest trail in Greece, crisscrossing the island, connecting villages, leading to deserted beaches, high peaks, gorges, streams, dense forests, chapels, and ruins of antiquity.
The highest mountain is Mount Kerkis or Kerketeas with a peak at 1400 meters.
A detailed description of the Samos Trails can be found here.
12. Livadaki Beach
Livadaki Beach is one of the most picturesque and exotic beaches in Samos, resembling a fjord. It is fully organized in a small bay with shallow, turquoise, warm waters, ideal for children. Restrooms and showers are available for your convenience, and there is no pressure to purchase anything while using the complimentary sunbeds.
How to get there? Follow the north-coast road out of Vathy for 10km and you will see the road signs. There is free parking right at the beach.
13. Waterfalls of Potami
On your way to the waterfalls of Potami, you will find the oldest church of Samos. The church is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior and is the most important and best-preserved Byzantine monument of Samos, built in the 11th century CE.
The four marble columns supporting the dome and their Corinthian capitals must come from ancient/early Christian monuments of the region.
The hiking trail (around 800 meters long) to the Potami waterfalls is very picturesque, inside a forest with small wooden bridges and is quite easy to walk.
There are two ways to get to the waterfalls: you can go there by swimming or you can climb (carefully!) a wooden ladder with 170 steps.
If you climb the ladder to the top, you will get to the magnificent stone-built restaurant Archodissa, inside the forested area. From Archodissa, you will enjoy a lovely view of the gorge to Potami beach.
14. Pythagoras Cave
Pythagoras Cave is located at Mount Kerketeas. To reach the actual cave you need to climb quite a few steps (around 340) carved on the rock.
This might be tiring if you are walking on a hot day but you can take it slowly. The mountain views are also very rewarding.
According to some sources, this is where the philosopher Pythagoras fled to hide when he was being persecuted by the tyrant Polycrates.
The entrance is free and the main part of the cave is right behind the tiny white chapel.
15. Potami Beach
One of the most popular and beautiful pebbly beaches of Samos is Potami, surrounded by trees with crystal clear waters.
With the picturesque little church of Agios Nikolaos right above it, it is also one of the most photogenic beaches of Samos, with a magical view, especially at sunset.
It is partially organized with a beach bar and easy road access, 4.5 km from Karlovasi.
16. Karlovasi
Karlovasi is the third port of Samos, Greece. It is quite a picturesque village with colorful houses, cafes, and taverns along the seafront, great if you are waiting for your ship.
The village is quite lively, especially if you go in the evenings to the central square, where everyone is strolling or enjoying a drink.
In Karlovasi, you can visit the only tannery museum in Greece, housed in an old tannery stone building, with free entrance for visitors.
You will have the chance to see the tools, machinery, and methods of leather processing, as well as rich photographic historical material.
17. Wine Tasting
Samos has been making fine wine since ancient times. However, since the 16th century, when the grape variety Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains or “Moschato” was imported, Samos became world- famous for its wines.
A lovely winery that also serves as a cultural center is Vakakis Winery in Megali Lakka. You can contact them to book a visit and taste their wonderful aromatic wines.
You should also visit the Samos Wine Museum in Vathy, which features traditional wine production equipment, photos, and lots of information.
The entrance fee is 5€, including wine tasting.
Finally, for the best view while sipping fine wine, you should go to Meteoro Winebar Restaurant Samos in Koumaradei near Puthagorio.
18. Boat Trips from Samos
Kusadasi and Ephesus
Samos is only an hour or so away from the coast of Turkey, so it’s a prime opportunity to take a day trip to two of the most popular destinations there, Kusadasi and Ephesus!
Two of the most popular day trips that you can book are:
From Kusadasi: Round-trip Ferry to Samos with Hotel Transfer
Samiopoula island
Samiopoula is an uninhabited, isolated, beautiful island opposite the southern coastline of Samos.
Organized tours start from Pythagorio and take you to the lush, almost flat island with its turquoise waters and the central beach of Psalida with its white sand, perfect for sunbathing.
The boats depart from Pythagorio and Marathokampos Bay in the morning and return to Samos at about 16:00.
Is Samos expensive to visit?
No, Samos is generally considered one of the most affordable islands in the Aegean, especially compared to the Cyclades like Santorini or Mykonos. In 2026, you can expect to pay about 30–40% less for food and accommodation here.
Here is a quick breakdown of what to expect for your 2026 budget:
Samos Travel Budget (2026 Estimates)
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range |
| Accommodation | €35–€50 / night | €70–€130 / night |
| Meal (per person) | €10–€15 (Taverna) | €25–€40 (Fine Dining) |
| Local Beer/Wine | €3.50 (Beer) | €6.00 (Glass of Muscat) |
| Car Rental (Daily) | €25–€35 | €45–€60 (SUV/Jeep) |
FAQ for Samos Island
Where is the best place to stay in Anafi?
The most popular bases in Samos are Pythagorio, Kokkari, and Marathokampos. For a quieter escape, I recommend Kerveli, a peaceful coastal area known for its beautiful beaches.
Best Views: Nafsika Villas (Kerveli) – Hillside, self-catering villas with a private beach and balconies overlooking the Aegean.
Best Modern Stay: Studios Limnionas (Marathokampos) – Brand-new apartments with a private pool, located just steps from the beach.
Best Budget Option: Katerina Apartments (Kokkari) – Fantastic, affordable rooms set in a lovely garden.
Getting Around Samos
Samos is a large island—approximately 43 km (~27 miles) long—so I recommend staying for at least a full week to explore at a relaxed pace. Driving from one side to the other (Vathi to Marathokampos) takes about 1 hour (~45 km or 28 miles) and can be tiring in the summer heat.
Best Option: Renting a car is the most efficient way to see hidden beaches and mountain villages.
Public Transport: Reliable KTEL buses depart from the main ports (Vathi and Karlovasi) to major tourist spots.
Alternatives: Taxis and private transfers are available, though more expensive for long-distance island crossings.
Best Time to Visit Samos, Greece (2026)
The North Aegean islands have a slightly shorter peak season than the Cyclades. For the best experience, I recommend visiting Samos between June and September.
Peak Season (July – August): The island is at its liveliest but also its busiest. Expect temperatures to reach around 33°C to 35°C (91°F to 95°F).
Best for Swimming: August and September offer the warmest seawater, averaging 25°C to 26°C (77°F to 79°F). Note that Samos’ waters can feel cooler than Crete, especially on the north coast, where the Meltemi winds blow.
Best for Hiking: If you plan to trek Mount Kerkis—rising to 1,434 meters (about 4,705 feet)—the best windows are May/June or September/October. The air is a comfortable 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making long walks much more enjoyable.
What is the most visited place in Samos?
The most popular spot is Pythagoreion village. It is a beautiful seaside town that serves as a gateway to several UNESCO monuments, including the Heraion temple (located about 6 km or 3.7 miles away) and the ancient Tunnel of Eupalinos.
What is a must-see attraction in Samos?
The Tunnel of Eupalinos is an incredible engineering marvel. It is a 1,036-meter (about 3,400-foot) long aqueduct cut through solid rock in the 6th century BC. While the experience can feel a bit claustrophobic, it is truly unique.
How long should I stay in Samos?
Ideally, plan for 6 to 7 days. Samos is a large island, and a full week gives you enough time to explore the main towns and the diverse beaches without feeling rushed.
Why should you visit Samos?
Samos offers a side of Greece that is very different from the typical whitewashed Cyclades. It is stunningly green, historically rich, and very affordable. You will find incredible local cuisine, world-class Muscat wine, and some of the most hospitable locals in the Aegean.
Best Guided Tour in Samos (2026)
To truly experience the hidden gems of the island, I recommend booking at least one guided excursion. Here is my top pick for a memorable visit:
Full-Day East Coast Cruise with BBQ Lunch: This is the best way to see the rugged coastline of Samos from the water. You’ll visit secluded bays accessible only by boat and enjoy a traditional Greek barbecue on the beach. It’s a full day of sun and sea, covering roughly 25 km (~15.5 miles) of the stunning eastern shore.
Is Samos a good destination for families?
Gemini said
Yes, Samos is fantastic for families! It is a safe, lush, and educational destination that is much more relaxed than the busy “party” islands.
Why Families Love Samos (2026):
Safe Beaches: Psili Ammos has very shallow, sandy water for over 30 meters (~100 feet), making it perfect for toddlers.
Active Fun: The Potami Waterfalls offer a manageable hike through a forest that kids and teens love.
Living History: Exploring the Tunnel of Eupalinos (a 1,036-meter / ~3,400-foot underground aqueduct) feels like a real-life adventure for older children.
Pedestrian Zones: Villages like Pythagoreion and Kokkari have car-free areas where kids can walk safely while you enjoy a meal.
Local Tip: Since Samos is a large island—about 477 sq. km (~184 sq. miles)—I highly recommend renting a car so you don’t have to wait for buses with tired children in the summer heat.
Plan Your Island Hopping Adventure
Samos is the perfect hub for exploring the Eastern Aegean and even Turkey. Here are the three best ways to “hop” from Samos in 2026:
Top 3 Samos Island Hopping Routes
- The “Slow Life” Route (Fourni & Ikaria):
- Route: Samos – Fourni – Ikaria.
- Distance: Fourni is just 23 km (14 miles) from Samos.
- Why: Perfect for authentic food and the famous Ikarian “Blue Zone” lifestyle.
- The “Sacred” Route (Patmos & Leros):
- Route: Samos to Patmos to Leros.
- Distance: The 52 km (32-mile) trip to Patmos takes about 1 hour by catamaran.
- Why: Explore the UNESCO Monastery of St. John in Patmos and the unique Italian architecture of Leros.
Local Tip: Always check if your ferry leaves from Vathi or Karlovasi. They are 32 km (20 miles) apart, and a mistake can cost you your trip!
A Short History of Samos
Samos has been a crossroads of culture for over 5,000 years, with human traces dating back to the Neolithic era.
- Ancient Roots & Mythology: Legend says Samos is the birthplace of the goddess Hera. In the 2nd millennium BC, Ionians from Epidaurus arrived, establishing the island as a center for her worship and building the massive Heraion temple.
- The Golden Age: During the 6th century BC, under the tyrant Polycrates, Samos became a dominant maritime power. This era produced the first Greek bronze statues and engineering marvels like the Tunnel of Eupalinos. It was also the home of the legendary mathematician Pythagoras.
- A Strategic Prize: Due to its location just 1.2 km (~0.7 miles) from Asia Minor, Samos was a vital trade hub for wine and ceramics. It played a key role in the Persian Wars, fighting alongside other Greek city-states (Salamina) in famous battles like Mycale.
- Empire & Occupation: Samos flourished under the Romans and later became a stronghold of the Byzantine Empire, which left a legacy of beautiful Christian monasteries and churches you can still visit today.
- Independence: After centuries of Ottoman rule, Samos joined the Greek War of Independence in 1821. It spent nearly 80 years as a semi-autonomous principality before officially uniting with Greece in November 1912.
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