
Greek island in the eastern Aegean Sea
Photo: Follower of Pietro da Cortona, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Samos is an island in the North Aegean Sea and one of the East Aegean Islands. Its capital is the town of Samos, formerly known as Vathi. The Samians still call their capital Vathi instead of Samos. If you need oral directions ask for Vathi, but if you look on the map or at the road signs, you should look for Samos. In this guide the name Vathi is used for the capital of the island.
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It was the first technical port built in the Mediterranean. The mole which protected the harbor was 360 meters long and based in 30 meters of sea depth. Today, the western end of Pythagorion quay conspicuously consists of this ancient project which constitutes also the root of the outer mole.
A tunnel of 1036 m was hewn through the hill and below the city’s defensive wall to serve as a safe aqueduct in case of siege while providing an escape route. What made it an extraordinary engineering feat and a project management paradigm is the fact that two different teams begun simultaneously from both sides of the hill and they succeeded, with a negligible deviation, to meet just under the top of the hill in 180 m of depth, despite they were obliged to deviate from straight line due to frailty rocks.
Heraion of Samos
The ancient city’s defensive wall of polygonal masonry was 6220 m long. The Samians were forced to demolish it following their defeat by the Athenians in 440-439 BC, but soon after they built it again. Today remains its northern part at the top of the hill above Pythagorion, so it can be visited.
The workmen of ancient Samos were extracting soft limestone with primitive tools which was used in the temple of Hera and for construction of city buildings. The mines have forty-five entrances and eight levels. As of today many old inhabited houses in Pythagorion conspicuously incorporate structural elements which were molded in ancient times.
It was used by Pythagoras as part of initiation of students at an early stage, where they were standing a test. According to local legend, he sought refuge there when he was chased by the tyrant Polycrates prior to his final departure for the Doric city of Croton, in Sicily.
Houses mainly findings from Pythagorion associated with the everyday life of the ancient inhabitants.
Houses mainly findings from Hereon, among them, the largest 5.5 m surviving Kouros in Greece.
It houses a priceless paleontological treasure consisting of the fossilized bones of megatheriums which lived 8-10 million years ago. Many of these are unique paleontological findings and witness the natural history of the European continent. Approximately 30,000 fossilized bones that found the previous century were taken away abroad and now adorn the most important natural history museums in the world. Find in the museum the fossils which remained in Samos.
Was founded in 1476 and rebuilt in 1566 on the ruins of an older monastery, dedicated to the natal of Virgin Mary. It is famous for its carved iconostasis, stunning frescoes and icons, many sacred vessels and books and codices dating from 1676.
The original building was built in the early 17th century, according to an inscription on the cross that was placed in the foundations of the temple. The global founded in great depth and mounted on wooden beams took its current form in 1838. Its rood screen is a work of outstanding quality, as is the pulpit and the bishop's throne. Has a close relationship with the Jerusalem Patriarchate because among the Sacred Relics of exists a piece of Holy wood, which is set for veneration.
Founded in 1586 on the South side of Samos and is dedicated to the Assumption. Suffered many invasions and plundered by pirates and barbarians. Inside the Catholic, it is rescued the old marble tiling with composite umbilical in the center. The bas-relief is framed by early Christian marble slabs. The whole church is painted by unknown painter, who must have known the art of Athos.
Founded on an existing temple that was donated in 1625 and later the monastery was built around. The Monastery has some beautiful wall paintings, many ecclesiastical utensils and a wooden carved icon-screen.
August 5th, 1824 was the last day of the naval battle of Mycale strait won by the Greeks who were fighting for their freedom. Especially that day saw the Samiots away of the danger of total destruction (like it happened earlier at Chios, Psara and Kassos) as they had repelled all invasion attempts. The next day, August 6 1824, coinciding with the feast of Saviour's Transfiguration, dawned with thanks giving, rejoicing and fest. In the naval battle decisive role played the Greek fireships. So, every August 5th, in Pythagorion takes place a re-enactment of naval battle with explosions and fireworks at sea and the next day a religious fair is held with folk dancing. It is worth noting that at the same strait, in August 479 BC there was the last naval battle with the Persians who, following the destruction of their fleet, abandoned forever their efforts to enslave the Greeks.
Organized by the Union of Vinicultural Cooperatives of Samos and the Municipality of Samos offering all varieties of the local wine - especially the famous sweet wine. Local musicians and dancing groups participate, where dances are danced usually by girls in a circle. Male dancers take up places at the beginning or the end of the chain.
Three-day artistic festivity which includes ancient musical, poetic and choreο-theatrical performances that frame the central event. The pinnacle of the celebration starts in the second evening with torch relay (women compete in running with torches), and continues with the arrival of the flame and the women procession with the woven veil of Hera by following the ritual from the 6th century BC.
Small pebbly beach, 200 m long, that is protected from the winds with relatively shallow waters. This is a pebble beach but there are areas of sand in the water. It is the nearest major beach to the town of Samos (Vathi), a 15-minute walk with the sea on your left from the ferry port. You can rent sun loungers and there are bars/cafes on the seafront although you may not be able to consume their food and drink on the beach itself.
Small exotic beach, about 100 m long, with light sand and shallow turquoise waters, located in a small and narrow bay between rocks. It is organized with umbrellas, sun beds and beach bar.
Galazio
Pebbly beach with clear deep water and small trees for shade. In the area there is a taverna offering fish and seafood.
Pebble beach about 200 m long having relatively shallow waters and sheltered from the winds. The beach is surrounded by a green scenery, it is not organized and ideal for relaxing. In the area there are restaurants, small hotels and lodgings.
Both beaches have deep water and are accessible by foot or by boat.
Small pebble beach, 200 m long, with relatively shallow and clear turquoise waters. The beach is organized with a few sun beds and umbrellas and is suitable for a family holiday. Close to the beach and in the wider area are small hotels, rooms to let, bars and seaside tavernas.
Small pebble beach with shallow, clear waters and well protected from the winds. At the beach and the surrounding area, there are lodgings and tavernas.
It is a white long beach approximately 3 km, with pebbles and crystal clear emerald waters with moderate depth. The beach is well organized with sun beds and umbrellas, but there are also trees along that offer shade. In the area there are tavernas and snack canteens located by the sea.
Small beach, about 200 m long, with very fine sand, very shallow, clear waters and well protected from the winds. It is organized and has umbrellas and sun loungers. In the area there are tavernas, big hotels and lodgings.
Small beach about 100 m with pebbles and sandy bottom having moderate water depth and protected in the bay of Pythagorion. The beach is well organized with sun beds, umbrellas and shower. In the area there are restaurants, big hotels and lodgings.
Long beach of 3 km approximately, with sand and pebbles having moderate water depth. Offers a variety of services such as umbrellas, sun beds, shower facilities, beach bars, beach volley and water sports equipment, while there are many places that offer tranquility and comfort. In the area there are restaurants, big hotels and lodgings.
Campos
Extended long beach 3 km of sand and pebbles. The water is moderately deep and crystal clear. Organized beach with umbrellas, sun beds and water sports. There are small hotels, many lodgings, bars and fish tavernas. During the summer months has a lively nightlife.
Psili Ammos
It is the most beautiful beach of the island, about 400 m long with shallow water and sand. It is organized with umbrellas, sun beds and a restaurant. In the region there are lodgings.
A pebble beach with deep clear waters. When northern winds blow high waves are created. It is well organized, with umbrellas and sun beds, beach volley, beach soccer, beach tennis, table tennis and equipment for water activities - water sports, such as windsurfing, canoeing, pedalo, scuba diving. There are many lodgings and small hotels as well as tavernas and bars by the sea.
The beach is about 400 m long with clear waters. When northern winds blow high waves are created. The beach is well organized with sun beds and umbrellas. There is a taverna next to the sea and rooms to let near the beach.
It is a pebble beach about 400 m long with turquoise and crystal clear water that deepens abruptly. When northern winds blow high waves are created. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, where few nudists gather mostly on the right side. It is organized with umbrellas and sun loungers. There are tavernas and beach bars along the beach.
It’s a small beach of 350 m with pebbles, deep and clear water where high waves are created when strong northerly winds blow. Right after there is a smaller secluded beach. The beach is well organized with sun beds and umbrellas and a taverna close to the coast.
An extensive beach of 800 m with fine pebbles and crystal clear waters, where high waves are created when northern winds blow. It is organized in some part with a few lounge chairs and umbrellas and a beach bar. In the beach area there is a cafeteria and a restaurant.
It is a small pebble beach of 150 m with deep and clear water in a wild and majestic scenery. The beach is completely isolated and unorganized. The only way to reach the beach is to walk two kilometers from the place Potami to Megalo Seitani.
It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, 350 meters long, with thick sand and deep clean waters. Approached from Mikro Seitani, as above, where the trail continues for another 2 km around a stunning route with great views. There is also a daily excursion to the beach by boat from the port of Karlovassi. The visitor should be equipped with the necessities as the beach is completely isolated. Megalo Seitani has been declared a Special Protection Zone for the seal Monachus monachus and it is a part of the network Natura 2000.
Samos’ capital
Walk the coastal path from Gagkou Beach (see above for directions) through beautiful flora and see the crystal clear coves. From Gagkou beach head over to the half-finished concrete building. Head up the steps of this, cross the first floor and you'll see a path off into the heather from here. You can follow this path for a couple of kilometres until it leads you back to the road. It's a great place to watch the sunset and you can get down to one or two deserted although very small beaches via this path.
Offers outdoor activities like adventure weeks, hiking tours, cycling tours, MTB, climbing, river trekking, and organized visiting to unique beauties of the island which have various degree of access difficulty.
A great adventure for anyone who is around the Karlovasi area. You can get easily to the first waterfall but getting to the big one it's a bit of a challenge. You can ask the locals for more info. It will take you approximatelly, 30-45 minutes.
It's the biggest mountain in the island and one of the highest in the Aegean sea, 1,444 m above the sea level. There's a path that you can take just outside of Marathokampos, it takes about 3-4 hours to reach the top.
Excellent watersports facilities to be found on the long pebble beach at Potokaki, which are open all season. Including windsurfing, waterskiing, inflatables and jetski hire.
Very popular windsurfing destination, where various facilities are offering such services.
Apart from its excellent facilities, “Samos Windsurfing” offers also windsurfing courses.
Offers yacht charters and sailing holidays to the nearby Greek islands on a bareboat or skippered boat charter.
A restaurant that serves good value Greek and Western food and is very close to the centre of Samos. The restaurant is outdoors under vine leaves with a fountain and some songbirds and traditional Greek music to add atmosphere. Children will enjoy being photographed on the concrete donkey in the corner too.
Propably the only alternative bar/club in Karlovasi. It's located in the square of Meseo Karlovasi and it's a great little place to drink a couple of beers and dance the night away. They host trap, techno, trance, hip hop and rock nights. Open only on Friday and Saturday until early morning.
Another small, great club. You can hear mainly deep house music, open Friday, Saturday. Along side with Jasmine and Gazi, it's one of the most popular clubs in Karlovasi.
Very nice atmosphere, in a Paris-like cafe, in Karlovasi. Great variety of food, different types of coffee, tea and wine. Every Tuesday they host "Tapas nights" where you can have five types of tapas with a glass of red wine with only €4.50!
Great club right in the heart of Karlovasi, just 2 minutes from the central square. Plays the mainstream international hits until about 3 and after that, Greek "turbofolk" music. The place is kinda small (can't handle more than 60-80 people) so it gets packed really fast and the party goes on until the first morning hours. Decent prices, a beer is about €3 and a drink is around €5. Free entrance.
In the square of Karlovasi. Small, relaxing place with good beer and nice deep house music. They host karaoke nights or small acoustic lives from time to time. Check their Facebook page for any upcoming events.
A bar in the port of Karlovasi which turns into a night club on the weekends. You can listen to all types of music - from Greek to Jazz or 1980s disco.
Another tavern in the square of Karlovasi. Every Tuesday and Thursday they have a "drink as much wine as you can" deal with €4 per person.
A cafe run by students, on the building next to the dorms. You name the price on whatever you take. Works around the university timeline so if you visit in the middle of summer, there's a high chance that it's going to be closed. The place is nicely decorated, with a view of the town of Karlovasi and with different events happening every week.
The hotel consists of 108 rooms, divided between the main building and a bungalow complex. Their large verandas overlook the Aegean Sea and the lush green surroundings.
A friendly family-run beachfront hotel.
On Mykali beach.
Opposite the hospital is a dated concrete slab, although this may be where you can get the cheapest room in high season. Be prepared for negligible service though and make a note that although they claim breakfast, lunch and dinner can be served "anytime," the Internet is unavailable between 22:15 and 23:00 while the owner has his evening meal. Rooms facing the hospital are cheapest at €22 per night in low season without breakfast. During high season, rooms with two single beds facing the harbor are €30.
A wonderful, small hotel with stunning views, infinity pool and lovely staff.
On Kokkari's main beach in a two-storey building, Twelve double rooms which all feature en-suite bathrooms, satellite TV and controllable air-conditioning, All the rooms have balconies offering an unobstructed view of the Aegean Sea. Cleaning and change of linen is daily.
Hotel with amazing view in Pythagorion.
Low cost hotel at Pythagorion.
On the southeastern side of Samos, 800 m from the cosmopolitan village of Pythagorion.
Ino Village hotel is in Kalami, 15 minutes by foot from the center of the island, and it has 65 rooms.
Information, facilities, rates for Nafsika Villas located in Kerveli Samos
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and natural beauty.
Seaside hotel.
A complex of 3 detached villas with private swimming pools in each one of them. Great views to the sea and to the mountain.
Sea-front hotel and cafeteria at Pythagorion Village.
dikaia koupa
The "cup of Pythagoras" has a line that determines the limit of fulfillment. The cup empties from its bottom when filled more than the limit. With this invention, called also "the fair cup", Pythagoras wanted to teach his students the necessity of applying measure and limits in their lives and why greed is vituperation which causes divine retribution. When the limit was outdone (hubris), lost was not only what was in excess of the limit but also what had been obtained up to then (retribution).
nero-sfyrihtra
When the pot is full of water and air is blown to the tube, air bubbles pass through the water emitting a gargling whistle. When air is blown to the tube and the pot is empty the pot emits continuous hiss.
mascara bardaki
The pleasantries that causes is that before the unwary drink from the spout, is getting wet all over from the holes. The challenge is to find the way to drink water without getting wet.
Mooring facilities
Every port is suitable for yacht berthing, however Vathi and Karlovassi are getting swell when north winds blow while Vathi is exposed to the strong southern winds.
By plane
Flights arrive near the old capital of Pythagorion.
The island has buses although these are infrequent and don’t run on Sundays or some public holidays.
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Samos Island · Regional · SMI
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