Samos is the largest island on the north-east part of the Aegean very close with borders of Asia Minor. It is a very green island with two large mountains and was the legendary birthplace of great men in the Ancient Greek world. Some of them include mathematician Pythagoras, philosopher Epicurus and astronomer Aristarchus. Samos is also the mythological origin of goddess Hera.

In Samos you will find two of UNESCO’s archaeological monuments: the largest ancient Greek temple in Greece (Temple of Godess Hera) and the archeological area of Pythagorio. Samos is also well known for their local wine which they learned how to make since the ancient time. The legend says that Dionysus blessed the locals with the vine and recipe of this wine. If you visit Samos you will discover its journey from antiquity to modern age, the unique natural landscape that combined mountain and sea and the warm hearted hospitality of the locals.

Getting There

By Plane: Samos has an airport which welcomes international charter flights during the summer period and domestic flights all year long. Additionally you can reach Samos via a Connecting flight from Athens of Rhodes.

Ferry: From Athens you can get a ferry from Piraeus and Rafina which usually depart in the afternoon and reach Samos the following day. There also daily high-speed ferries from the other islands of the Dodecanese.

Where to stay in Samos There are many options for your accommodation on this island, whether you fancy a luxurious stay or to go camping on a budget. You can book a room in Samos or one of the other towns Kerveli, Pithagorio, Marathokipos, Kokkari and Karlovasi.

Beaches

Samos has a lot of beaches around the coastline to suit all tastes. Pithagorio sandy beach is right next to Pithagorio port and it is an attraction of the younger generations because of the beach bars and the all-day parties.

Gagos is an organized beach rewarded with a Blue Flag which is found 2 km outside the city of Samos. This shallow pebble beach is an attraction for tourists and locals. Here you will find hotels, restaurants, cafes and shops. Other organized beaches include Votsalakia, Psilli Ammos which is family friendly, Tsampou with coarse pebbles, Lemonakia, Potokaki and Ireo.

Highlights

Ireon Samou is found 3 km west of Pythagorio and it is dedicated to goddess Hera. On the brink of Ivrassos river, according to tradition, was the place where Godess Hera was born and at exactly the same spot was where her marriage with Zeus took place. The site is consisted of the Grand Temple of Hera whos vulgar foundation cause every visitor awe and other great buildings.

One of the most impressive sites in Samos is the Aqueduct of Pythagoreion. In the 6th century BC a tunnel was built through Mount Kastro in order to construct an aqueduct to supply the ancient capital with fresh water. The strategy behind this construction was to ensure citizen’s protection from potential enemies that would attempt to cut off the water supply. The construction of this tunnel was designed and lead by Eupalinos and it is particularly notable because it is the second earliest tunnel to be dug from both sides simultaneously.