Samos is one of the most beautiful islands in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea, just a hop away from Turkey.

About
Samos Island

The area of the island is 478 km2, and has a population of 33,814, making it the 9th most populous Greek island.

Climate/weather: Samos has a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and relatively short, mild winters. It is a perfect tourist destination due to the prolonged warm temperatures during most of the year.

The average annual maximum temperature in Samos is 21°C (rising to an average of 29°C in June and peaking at 31°C in July and August).

Natural endowments: Samos is characterized by a fabulous nature: steep mountain ranges, sandy beaches, azure sea water, olive groves and green pine forests, the scent of which permeates the entire island.

It is also the home of many herbs and spices, in addition to the fact that there are many vines on the island, from which excellent Greek wine is made.

Thanks to its mountainous regions (Ampelos and Kerkis), it is a gem for nature walkers and hikers.

Transport

Flights

Samos Island can be reached by air from Athens and several European cities. The island is served by Samos International Airport (SMI), also known as Aristarchos Airport.There are year-round flights from Athens, while during the summer season the airport also receives flights from Thessaloniki, other Greek cities, and international destinations due to increased tourism. Most international passengers arrive from European countries, particularly from the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Nordic countries.

Ferry

You can get to the island by plane, but as the island is very close to the Turkish coast, there are daily ferries between Turkey and Samos.

Furthermore, the island is connected to the port of Piraeus in Athens, but also to Fourni, Lesvos, Ikaria, Chios and many others.

The most popular ferry routes to Samos are from the ports of Piraeus (Athens), Patmos and Mykonos.

History

Ancient times

In antiquity, Samos was a particularly wealthy and powerful city-state , especially famous for its vineyards and wine production.

It is home to the Pythagoreion and the Heraion of Samos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the Eupalin Aqueduct, a marvel of ancient engineering.

Samos is the birthplace of the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, for whom the Pythagorean theorem is named.

Aristarchus of Samos , the first known individual to theorise that the Earth revolved around the Sun.
Samos wine was well known in ancient times and is still produced on the island today.

UNESCO

According to mythology, the goddess Hera, the wife of Zeus, was born on the island, in whose honor the sanctuary of the goddess Hera (Heraion) was built here, which can still be admired today. This island was a favorite place (of Romeo and Juliet of the ancient world), Antony and Cleopatra, and newlyweds often visit it to this day.

The Pythagoreion is the archaeological site of the ancient town of Samos in Samos, Greece. It is located in the area of the modern town of Pythagoreio, from which it has got its modern name. The archaeological site contains ancient Greek and Roman monuments and a famous ancient tunnel, the Tunnel of Eupalinos or Eupalinian aqueduct.

About the city

Ano Vathy & Samos

Samos Town (also known as Vathy) is the capital and main port of the island, located on the northeastern coast within a naturally sheltered bay. It has a population of around 9,000 residents, most of whom are involved in tourism. Ano Vathy is the historic upper part of the town, built amphitheatrically along the hillside above the harbor. It is one of the oldest settlements on the island, and its traditional houses create a particularly charming and picturesque landscape. The lower part of Samos Town, around the port area, is a lively and well-developed center with numerous hotels, restaurants, cafés, and bars. One of the town’s most important cultural events is the Samos Festival, held each summer in honor of the renowned Greek composer Manolis Kalomiris, who was born on the island. Another popular summer attraction is the Wine Festival, which draws many visitors every year.

Tourism:

Kedros is considered one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches on Samos. It is located about 5 km northwest of Vathy and can be reached via a road that includes an unpaved section. The beach is largely natural and unspoiled, known for its crystal-clear blue waters throughout the summer. The shoreline is mostly pebbled, with sandy seabed further out. Length: approx. 400 m Average width: approx. 12 m. Kedros is popular with sea lovers and you may often spot kitesurfers or windsurfers, especially on windy days. Staying until late afternoon is rewarded with a beautiful sunset. Activities: snorkeling, kitesurfing, windsurfing, fishing. Facilities are limited compared to organized beaches; in season, you may find a small beach bar and sunbeds/umbrellas, but availability can vary.

Beaches

Kedros Beach

One of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Samos is Kedros. Samos is generally gifted with a wonderful landscape of vast vegetation with tall pine trees and fresh air. It is located 5km north west of Vathi, the capital of Samos. The beach is mostly unorganized, thus quite isolate and calm.

However, the best feature of Kedros is the blue crystal waters that remain clean throughout the whole summer. The white pebbles are dragged through the depths of the sea, but there is sand after some meters.

Kedros is situated between Vathy and the village of Kokkari and it can be reached by a dirt road. There are some traditional taverns around the area and various types of accommodation due to the short distance from the capital. It is easily reachable by all means of transport.

You don’t need special shoes, but it is useful. The sharpness of entering the water is quite normal. This beach is suitable for different categories of people, lonely travellers, relaxation getaway lovers etc. Suitable especially for families with kids. It is partially crowded during the high season.

Kedros beach coast is free for all. It has no amenities, only nature.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also take part in other activities.
This beach is easily accessible, it is located very close to road.

Length of the beach 400 m.
Average width: 12 m.
Kedros beach is the alternative destination for those who love the sea. It is very likely to come across kite surfers or windsurfers to roam the sea. When you stay up late in the afternoon, enjoy the sunset.

Activities: snorkeling, kite surfing, windsurfing, fishing.
Facilities there: sun beds and umbrellas, showers, restaurants, restrooms, changing rooms, snack bars.

Kokkari, Lemonakia, Mykali Tsamadou

Samos beaches are famous for their green environment and crystal water. Kokkari, Lemonakia, Mykali, and Tsamadou are among the most beautiful beaches in Samos Greece.

Interesting informations

Since ancient times, Samos has been known for its natural wealth, including abundant fresh water, forests, fertile land, high-quality olive oil, and a wide variety of agricultural products.
The island’s landscape is dominated by two major mountain ranges — Mount Ampelos and Mount Kerkis — which shape its lush and diverse scenery.
Samos offers many peaceful, unspoiled areas, with small coves and rocky inlets where visitors can enjoy privacy and natural beauty away from crowded resorts.
The Greek islands are world-famous for their clear blue waters and beautiful beaches, ranging from sandy shores to pebbled coastlines.

Samos is the birthplace of the renowned philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. The island features numerous hiking trails winding through its green forests, leading to waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, and secluded coastal coves. Samos offers a diverse experience — from seaside resorts and traditional villages to forested landscapes and scenic mountain paths. As an island rich in history, it is also home to many important archaeological and historical sites. One notable place for explorers is the Panagia Spiliani Monastery above Pythagorion, where visitors can discover a unique cave church associated with the icon of the Virgin Mary.