Holidays in Samos

Samos Holidays - Destination Profile

The scenic roads around the coast though leafy mountain villages make car hire an attractive option when visiting Samos. Visit the pretty fishing hamlet of Kokkari on the north coast, or the excellent sandy beaches in the southwest at Votsalakia and Limnionas. Kerveli offers a small, secluded natural beach surrounded by lush greenery making it ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation. Posidonio is situated near to the bay of Kerveli and once consisted merely of a few fisherman's houses. It now offers a mini market for the essentials and a wonderful taverna serving fresh fish dishes, yet still retaining its rural charms, almost untouched by tourism.

To the west, the barren, towering peak of Mount Kerkis provides a dramatic backdrop to the peaceful scene below. It is said Pythagoras took refuge from his enemies in a cave on the mountainside, where his pupils came to study with him. All around this area you will find fine walking territory with spectacular views.

If you ever feel the urge to venture further afield you can head off to explore the delights of Samos Town and Pythagorio, safe in the knowledge that your relaxing holiday hideaway is waiting to welcome you home at the end of another perfect day.

Holidays in Samos - Things to see

The Samos Museum: in Samos Town is probably one of the most interesting museums in Greece. A large number of pieces from Archaic, Hellenistic and Roman Periods are on display for you to see.

The Temple of Hera and the famous Pythagoras Cave: are about 7-8 kilometres south-east of Pythagorion - the place where the famous Pythagoras lived and studied. On the journey up towards the cave there is a restaurant where you can stop to enjoy a refreshing drink.

Catch the sunset at one of the small traditional taverns located by the yacht marina at Pythagorion, where you can also taste local cuisine.

Things to do on a Holiday in Samos

It is definitely recommended that you hire a car whilst visiting Samos if you want to take advantage of some truly beautiful beaches. Be sure to visit Potami, the virgin beach on the north west of the island. It is an 8-10 km drive from Samos town. The blue sea is crystal clear and makes you feel as though you are paddling in the waters of the Carribbean.

Stop and visit the town of Kokkari, one of the most beautiful places on the way back to Samos town with a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Manolates and Vourliotes are also superb little villages.

Sample a Metaxa (Greek brandy) and try the local Samos muscat wine.

Getting Around on Samos Holidays

Ferry: Samos has three major ferry ports: Pithagorion, Karlosvassi and Vathi. Samos is easily reached by ferry from Pireaus. The trip is about 8 to 14 hours (depending boat) and ferries usually stop at both Karlovassi and Vathi. There are less frequent connections to Chios, Lesvos, and the islands of the Dodecanesos which you can reach on frequent high-speed in the summer months. There are daily boats to Kusadasi, Turkey where you can visit the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, one of the world's most incredible archaeological sites. Tickets can be bought from various travel agencies.

Buses: The local KTEL busses carry out transportation within the island. They have a quite good schedule and they connect the many villages and cities of the island. Buses operate until 8pm. During summer, daily buses leave from the capital of Samos for the beaches of Tsamadou, Psili Ammos and Hereon.

Taxi-boat: During summer, daily fishing boats are linking the capital of Samos to Pythagorion. There are excursion boats that will take you to some of the beautiful remote beaches and there is a boat that sails around the whole island.

Although Samos has a very good bus system, it is definitely recommended that you hire a car and explore the beautiful villages and beaches at your own leisurely pace.

Weather and climate information