Samos

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Samos

The mythical birthplace of the goddess Hera, Samos is the greenest of the Aegean islands, and surely deserves its divine reputation. Nature-lovers and sun-seekers alike are attracted to its pebbled beaches, green expanses and impressive rocky cliffs. The island is also famous for its vineyards, as well as being home to the ruins of the magnificent Temple of Hera , and a true marvel of ancient engineering, the 1,000-metre Tunnel of Eupalinos, which once brought clean drinking water to the people of Pythagoreio.

The Island Samos Beaches

The Island

Separated from the Turkish mainland (visible form many parts of the island) by the narrow Strait of Mycale, Samos enjoys an ideal location in the Aegean on the route between Athens and Izmir, and is often used as a stopping off point for travelers between the two countries. It is also one of the greenest islands in the area and boasts a huge number of idyllic little beaches found all along the coast. Samos is rightfully thought of as a an ancient centre for scholarship and learning, as it was the home of philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras (the caves where he lived and taught can be visited on Mt. Kerkis), and it is also fabled to be the birthplace of the goddess Hera, and the remains of an ancient temple built in her honor can still be found near the city of Pythagoreio. Other main urban areas include Vathy (Samos Town) and Kokkari, both on the north coast, where much of the island's best dining and nightlife can be found lining the harbour areas of each city. Traditional dishes are complemented with local vintages and an unmistakable Greek hospitality.

Samos Beaches

Below is a brief selection of the best beaches on Samos Island.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Samos is home to a wealth of beautiful beaches, both secluded and lively, but always surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The island's other assets include interesting museums, temples and castles, as well as the Cave of Pythagoras, where the ancient philosopher once resided and taught, and the marvel of ancient engineering that is the Tunnel of Eupalinos.

Tunnel of Eupalinos

Perhaps the greatest testament to the scientific genius of Samos' golden-age is the 1,034-metre-long Tunnel of Eupalinos - an aqueduct and service tunnel built in 524 BC. This incredible feat of ancient engineering claimed the lives of many workers, but brought vital drinking water to the inhabitants of Pythagoreio, then a metropolis of 80,000.

The Heraion

Though today only some ruins remain, this 6th-century temple dedicated to the goddess Hera was once four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens. The road leading to the site from Pythagoreio was once lined with impressive statues that led the way to the temple.

Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis

The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis (named after a resistance leader from the War of Independece) dates back to 1824. Visitors are free to explore the remnants of the castle and take in the breathtaking views of Pythagorei Bay.

Archaeological Museum

This impressive museum showcases ancient archaeological artifacts dating back as far as the 6th century BC. The highlights include ceramics, bronze sculptures and statues, including an enormous 5 and a half metre statue taken from the Heraion near Pythagoreio (the largest of its kind).

Monastery of Panagia Spiliani

A short distance from the city of Pythagoreion, atop a hill with wonderful views of the surrounding area and coast, lies the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. As if the views and the quaint monastery weren't enough to lure you up, visitors can descend into a small cave, at the bottom of which there is a…

Potami Waterfalls

Venture through forest paths to northwest of the island, where you will discover the beautiful Potami Waterfalls, a popular and picturesque swimming hole hidden among large slick rocks. Nearby there are a few places where you can find refreshments, making the area a great place for a day-trip.

Cave of Pythagoras

Greek philosopher and thinker Pythagoras is perhaps the most famous son of Samos, and it is possible to visit his caves on Mount Kerkis. The larger of the two caves was used as a classroom for his students, while the nearby smaller cave was used as his living quarters.

Samos Wine Museum

This simple and rustic museum teaches visitors about the wine-production process and the interesting contraptions that have been used in the region's wine-making history.

Dining

Dining in Samos is akin to a lesson in Mediterranean specialties, fresh seafood and Greek hospitality. Fine restaurants can be found spread out all across the island, often boasting breezy locations and stunning sea views. Tavernas, trattorias, bistros and informal beach bars all pair your meal with some of the finest local vintages to round off a truly authentic Samos dining experience.

Stella

Up a narrow winding path from Balos Beach lies Stella, a restaurant that serves beautifully presented and expertly prepared specialties from Cyprus. The area is green and refreshing, and the traditional food is served with a contemporary twist in the beautiful garden.

Lakis Restaurant

Fabulous Greek cuisine is served at this no-frills restaurant in Pythagoreion. Prices are very reasonable, and the warm and welcoming staff is very generous with their free desserts and ouzo. Seafood is the specialty, and the Chicken Souvlaki comes highly recommended.

Casa di Roma

Casa di Roma, located in the picturesque Pythagoreion harbour, is a popular Italian restaurant that specialises in Mediterranean dishes, as well as pasta and pizza. Be sure to also try the wonderful desserts, which include cheesecake, tiramisu and apple pie with ice cream.

Elia Restaurant

With a prime location right by the beach in the Port of Pythagoreion, Elia Restaurant has a passion for creating unique flavours in all of their dishes, which range from Greek and Mediterranean and seafood to steak and vegetarian options. The outdoor seating is ideal for warm summer nights.

The Steps

The Steps boasts what is perhaps the best mealtime view in the Vathy area. Guests can gorge themselves on tasty mezes, refreshing salads and Mediterranean specialties from the restaurant's wonderful terrace overlooking the Vathy bay area. Favourite dishes include stuffed mushrooms and spicy kebab.

Taverna Garden

Taverna Garden in Vathy boasts atmosphere and personality. Seating is in a walled court yard with refreshing shade provided by greenery. There is often live traditional music and the staff has been known to join in the dancing on special nights.

Verghina Beach Bar and Restaurant

Just north of Vathy, perfectly situates on an idyllic beach, lies Verghina, a bar and restaurant where you can easily spend a whole day alternating back and forth between the waves, the sand, the sunbeds and the bar.

Nick the Greek

Claimed by some to be the best restaurant on the island, Nick the Greek has it all: perfect location, warm service, delicious food, and a heaps of personality. The titular Nick never fails to serve up something special, always using the very freshest seafood. There is also live traditional music every Saturday.

Chesters on the Beach

Chesters is the perfect chillout place to spend a lazy day eating and drinking at the beach in the southwest part of the island. The food is lovely, the drinks are cold, and the view on the sea is stunning. Come for the hearty breakfasts, or gorge yourself on one of Chester's huge burgers.

Aelio Bistro Cafe

Samos' north coast also boasts some extremely fine eateries, including Aelio Bistro Cafe. The breezy sea view is almost unreal, as are the fabulous desserts, rich fondue and colourful cocktails. It is a great place for any time of day, be it for your morning coffee or a nightcap.

Basilico

Basilico is an Italian restaurant and Pizzeria that has one of the dreamiest settings in Kokkari, overlooking the tranquil bay. Italian specialties are on offer, from pasta and pizza to fabulous gnocchi and tiramisu.

Restaurant Poseidon

Poseidon is an ideally located hotel and restaurant, just 2 minutes from the Kokkari bay and 15 minutes away from Vathy. Named after the mythical god of the sea, Poseidon offers, as one might expect, heavenly traditional Greek food and seafood, always served fresh.

Meltemi Restaurant

Another fabulous restaurant with a superb location right on the Kokkari beach. It is a traditional Greek family restaurant that offers some of the freshest seafood on the island, as well as other Greek specialties and a great selection of local wines.

To Kyma

This restaurant is a bit further afield than most, in the small town of Ireion, but the journey is worth it. The chefs at To Kyma always produce innovative dishes from their varied menu and have no trouble accommodating dietary restrictions or preferences.

Dionysos Restaurant

Located on the main road in the city of Pythagoreion, this restaurant is named after the mythical Greek god of wine and viniculture. It is a modern but cosy place that serves some fabulous Mediterranean delicacies, always accompanied by the finest local wines.

Cafes

Good coffee is not hard to find on Samos. Most restaurants, tavernas and bars offer strong and well-prepared coffee, as well as traditional and international dessert options. There is also a number of modern coffee houses spread throughout the island where capable baristas fix drinks to perfection.

Two Spoons

Two Spoons offers what is perhaps the best coffee on Samos, their staff serving expertly-prepared espressos, cappuccinos and lattes. But the star of the show at Two Spoons is without a doubt the enormous and decadent desserts, which include cheesecake, ice cream and muffins entirely submerged in molten chocolate.

Aelio Bistro Cafe

Koursaros Cafe

Koursaros Cafe, located on the southern coast of the island, defines itself as a sports cafe, cocktail bar and beer centre. Besides their premium coffee, be sure to cool off on a hot day with one of their frappes or slushies.

Corner Bar

Corner Bar is something of an institution in Samos. It was established all the way back in 1938 and remains a popular place among both locals and tourists. They keep customers coming back by serving fantastic coffee and a huge variety of delicious cocktails and freshly made juices.

Poquito Cafe-Bar

Enjoy your morning coffee with the sea breeze brushing your skin on the outdoor terrace of Poquito Cafe-Bar. This beach-side cafe serves fantastic lattes and cappuccinos in an idyllic setting on Samos' north coast, directly on Kokkari beach.

Kalimera Cafe

With a great location by Kokkari bay, Kalimera Cafe is a coffee house by day and a bar by night. The outdoor courtyard, with its cobblestone setting, is quaint and welcoming, inviting guests to linger and watch the world go by as they sip on their cappuccino or cocktail.

Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar

Iera Odos is one of the island's classiest establishments, attracting an erudite crowd with its sophisticated vibe, art events and live music. Guests can enjoy their drinks on the balcony or in the more private garden area. All manner of drinks are served, but an order of ouzo comes with a little meze.

Cafe Del Mar

Cafe del Mar is an elegant and cosy beach-side cafe where guests lay in comfortable lounge chairs as they sip their drinks and admire the sunset. You can complement your coffee, tea or cocktail with a variety of food and snacks, including sandwiches, fruit salad or even sushi.

Face Cafe-Bar

Another great cafe-bar located right on the Kokkari bay, Face Cafe-Bar has the view, the ambiance, the personality and the colourful drinks, everything one needs to enjoy an afternoon coffee or evening cocktail.

Perri Orekseos

A quaint cafe on the main street of Pythagoreion, Perri Orekseos is one of the best places to have breakfast on the whole island. Their homemade products stand out, like their pies and decadent desserts, as well as their milkshakes, fruit salads and sandwiches.

Line Creperie Beach Cafe

Line Creperie Beach Cafe is another beach-side establishment located at Kokkari beach. Sunbeds are free to use with the purchase of a meal, so many customers like to spend the whole afternoon lying in the sun after enjoying their meal, dessert, pastry of coffee.

Solid Espresso Bar

Solid Espresso Bar is a modern, sleek and hip coffee house that attracts young and fashionable crowds. It has been described a place for "real coffee lovers", taking pride in its expertly prepared coffee drinks, cocktails and desserts, as well as its burgers and similar comfort food.

Cavos Cafe Bar

Cavos Cafe Bar is as good for coffee as it is for late night drinks or an afternoon snack. Visitors find something to their liking at any time of day. Ideally located with a great view of the Kokkari bay, Cavos attracts locals and tourists alike.

Bars & Nightlife

Many of the island's best night spots can be found around the crescent-shaped Kokkari port and beach area. Quaint and breezy cafe-bars overlook the water and crowds of mingling locals and visitors sip on refreshing beers and colourful cocktails. Drinking and eating go hand in hand on Samos, and ordering ouzo will often earn you a free accompanying meze.

Verghina Beach Bar and Restaurant

Koursaros Cafe

Corner Bar

Poquito Cafe-Bar

Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar

Face Cafe-Bar

Another bar located right on the Kokkari bay, Face Cafe-Bar has the view, the ambiance, the personality and the colourful drinks, everything one needs to enjoy an afternoon coffee or evening cocktail.

Cavos Cafe Bar

Gregory's Bar

Gregory's is an all-day cafe and bar in the port of Pythagoreio. Visitors can have waffles in the morning, coffee after lunch, fresh fruit juices or ice cream in the afternoon, and end the night with colourful and delicious cocktails while enjoying the music as the night comes to life in the harbour.

Boa Vista

Boa is a Vista music cocktail bar that always keeps the crowd in the mood for a party with their frequent themed nights, such as Latin dance night or Greek night, sometimes including live music. You can sip a drink on the rooftop terrace or dance the night away on the dance floor.

Escape Music Club

Escape Music Club claims to have "the most beautiful balcony of the Aegean," and that may not be an exaggeration. The breezy terrace hangs directly over the water, allowing guests to enjoy both the sunset and the cool night air. Visitors also highlight the chilled vibe, good choice of music and tasty cocktails.

Wave Bar

Wave Bar is part of the Hotel Katerina, conveniently located right by the airport and just a stone's throw away from the beach. It is a simple and low-key establishment that serves refreshing drinks and some basic meals.

Summertime Bar

Bright, breezy Summertime Bar in Pythagoreion is great for an afternoon drink by the bay. Portraits of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe cover the walls, watching over visitors as they enjoy fruity drinks and snacks such as club sandwiches, burgers and salads.

En Plo Bar

En Plo makes the island's best cocktails, specialising in martinis and mojitos, combining high-quality ingredients with fine branded spirits. Guests are invited to create their own concoctions by combining elements and coming up with their own recipes for a unique nightlife experience.

Mezza Volta

Mezza Volta in Vathy is perhaps the best place on the island to dance. Their themed nights, which include 70s, 80s and 90s nights, as well as latin dancing nights, are particularly popular.

My House

My house is a modern and vibrant cafe-bar that boasts one of the best views of the Vathy bay area from its large rooftop terrace. The facilities are sleek and elegant, and young, hip crowds gather here at all times of the day for coffee, food and late-night drinking.

Shopping

The best shopping in Samos can be found concentrated in the main towns and cities, such as Vathy, Karlovassi and Pythagoreio, where visitors can find clothes, shoes books and accessories. Island specialties include home decor, glass-work, sculptures and Greek-themed knick-knacks, and some truly tasteful and masterfully crafted items can be found.