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Sightseeing in Samos

Spread out over the sides of a hill is Samos town (otherwise known as Kato Vathy), the capital and port of the island and its largest village. It is a traditional settlement, with a beautiful pier while its neoclassical buildings are testimony to the wealth and flourishing of previous eras. Samos town is not famed for its nightlife, but a late afternoon stroll with a stop for some great food is more than enough.

Ano Vathy is a traditional village of especial natural beauty, which you must visit to spend a couple of hours wandering through its narrow lanes. In Ano Vathy it is worth taking a stop at the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigis on Mt Rampaidoni, for its wonderful view over the straits of Mykali and the coasts of Turkey opposite. The Monastery also has a superb icon screen that you will wish to see.

At Vathy you will find one of Greece’s most important archaeological museums housing the second richest collection in the country. The finds come mainly from the Heraion temple on Samos, and in the museum’s collections you will find pottery, miniatures and coins. The highlight of the Museum’s Sculpture Gallery is the stunning Kouros statue of a young man (580 BC), with a height of 5.25 metres, one of the most important finds of archaic Greek sculpture.

Karlovasi in the northwest of the island is the second-largest village after Samos town. It is comprised of five villages, of which one, Palio Karlovasi (Old Karlovasi), with its cobbled lanes, is well worth taking a walk around. You can also visit the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, which is located 3 km from Samos town at an altitude of 200 metres.

The famous natural waterfalls of Samos are located just 3 km outside of Karlovasi, in the region of Potami, and they form two small lakes. Close by is Potami beach which is perfect for a swim. This little lake is unique in that it washes into the sea and so you can explore it by following the footpath that runs along its bed. You can also explore the ravine and see the other waterfalls, but you must stand in the water to do so. Enjoy!

Famed Pythagoreio, the coastal village with the cobbled lanes, traditional shipyard, picturesque neighbourhoods and oldest artificial harbour in the Mediterranean has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most popular areas in Samos, where you will encounter important archaeological monuments, such as the ruins of tyrant Polycrates’ palace, the Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis and the Roman baths. The emblem of Pythagoreio is the statue of the great mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, after which it is named, and which dominates the harbour.

Near Pythagoreio is the remarkable Tunnel of Eupalinos, the ancient aqueduct of Samos and a great technological and topographical achievement of the 6th century BC. Eupalinos, the engineer and designer of the work, built this tunnel with a length of 1,046 metres and a depth of 80 metres on both sides of the mountain so as to channel water from the north of the island to the waterless south. Most impressive is the fact that digging started at the same time on both sides and the two crews almost met in the centre with a difference of only 5 metres. Not to be missed!

You should also visit the famous Heraion of Samos, the huge temple dedicated to the goddess Hera, who had been worshipped on Samos since the Mycenaean era. The temple, built in the 6th century BC, is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are located in Greece. The temple was world famous in antiquity as the items that have been found dedicated in it came from all over the then known world. The buildings were comprised of 155 giant Ionic columns, although today only one survives. The Sacred Way inside the temple complex is paved with stone and led to the then capital of the island of Samos, today’s Pythagoreio.

The Natural History Museum of the Aegean is located in the village of Mytilinioi. Its exhibits include fossils aged between 3.5 million to 7 million years old, rare rocks and a large collection of samples of the flora of Samos and the Aegean. Among the exhibits of particular interest is the “Kaplani (Wildcat) Under Glass”, the feline that crossed the sea from the coast of Asia Minor to Samos 150 years ago and which inspired the novel by the Greek writer Alki Zei. Further information: https://www.nhma.gr

The beaches of Samos

Samos is one of the largest islands in Greece. As might be expected then, it has a huge range of choices to offer the visitor in terms of beaches, all of which are known for their crystal-clear waters and special natural beauty.

If you want a beach that offers organised amenities, with sunbeds, tavernas and beach bars, try Gango near Vathy, Lemonakia, Tsambou and the wonderful Tsamadou beach near Kokkari, Psili Ammos, the beach of Heraion and that of Pythagoreio.

Potokaki is considered the most beautiful beach on Samos and lies just 1km from Pythagoreio. This is a vast pebble beach with calm, clean waters. As it is near the island’s airport, you can watch the planes taking off and landing as you swim or sunbathe.

If you prefer a less crowded beach for a more relaxed time, try Kerveli with the shady tamarisks, Limnionas, Mourtia and Klima.

The most popular beach near Karlovasi is Potami, while just half an hour away on foot are the stunning and deserted sandy beaches of Mikro and Megalo Seitani, used as a refuge by the Mediterranean monk seal. The island is protected by the Natura 2000 programme.

Activities in Samos

Thanks to its lush vegetation and fertile landscape, Samos has some excellent walling routes through beautiful gorges, wooded areas and out-of-the-way beaches. One fantastic route for all those who enjoy hiking is to climb to the peak of Mt Kerki, from where you can enjoy the breath-taking, magical view!

The island also has 11 climbing slopes with 100 routes with different grades of difficulty, ideal for anyone who loves climbing.

Food in Samos

Samos is known to wine lovers for its “nectar”, the sweet Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains of Samos, a unique variety, and for its famous vineyards. The excellent wines of Samos are exported all over the world and have won important awards.

On the island you will find a variety of top quality traditional local products, such as thyme honey, great ouzo, exceptional olive oil and good local soap.

The local cuisine of Samos includes mainly traditional hortopites (pies with greens), meat and fish. Try some vetouli, meat from a young goat baked in the oven giouvetsi style (with orzo or short-cut pasta) or in a red sauce. In many dishes, especially at fairs, you will be able to sample meat cooked in a wheat porridge.

Travelling from Samos International Airport

You will touch down in Samos at Samos International Airport “Aristarchus”, which is located 15km from Samos town. From the airport you can travel to your destination in Samos with KTEL regional buses, which depart from the stop outside the airport. You can also go by car or taxi to the centre of Samos. Journey time is between 20 to 30 minutes. The journey to Pythagoreio takes 10 minutes and that to Heraion 15 minutes.

For further information, check the airport’s website: https://www.smi-airport.gr/el

Samos has stunning nature, crystal-clear beaches and important archaeological monuments. A large island that can offer the visitor rich experiences. Book cheap flights for Samos with Olympic Air and enjoy a comfortable journey!