The islands capital, Samos Town, is beautifully situated on a deep inlet, ideal for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere.
Description
The islands capital, Samos Town, is beautifully situated on a deep inlet, the pastel facades of its old mansions ascending the hillside to the narrow alleys and timbered houses of the sleepy Old Town, known as Vathy. The horseshoe-shaped bay has delightful harbour side cafés and canopied tavernas, with a lively atmosphere after dark. A fine sandy beach at Psili Ammos is 7 kilometres to the south with tavernas, watersports and plenty of opportunities for safe swimming in the clear blue waters.
Who goes to Samos Town?
People seeking a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of tavernas and shops.
Destination Profile
The scenic roads around the coast though leafy mountain villages make car hire an attractive option when visiting Samos. Visit the pretty fishing hamlet of Kokari on the north coast, or the excellent sandy beaches in the southwest at Votsalakia and Limenas. Kerveli offers a small, secluded natural beach surrounded by lush greenery making it ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation. Posidonio is situated near to the bay of Kerveli and once consisted merely of a few fishermen's houses. It now offers a mini market for the essentials and a wonderful taverna serving fresh fish dishes, yet still retaining its rural charms, almost untouched by tourism.
To the west, the barren, towering peak of Mount Kerkis provides a dramatic backdrop to the peaceful scene below. It is said Pythagoras took refuge from his enemies in a cave on the mountainside, where his pupils came to study with him. All around this area you will find fine walking territory with spectacular views.
If you ever feel the urge to venture further afield you can head off to explore the delights of Pythagorion, safe in the knowledge that your relaxing holiday hideaway is waiting to welcome you home at the end of another perfect day.
Highlights
- Beutifully situated within a deep inlet
- Narrow, colurful streets
- Great cafes and tavernas - particularly around the harbour
- Friendly, bustling market
- Gently sloping, shingle beach
- Easy access to some of the island's other best beaches such as Psili Ammos
- Crystal clear waters
- Great base for exploring the rest of the island
Things To Do
It is definitely recommended that you hire a car whilst visiting Samos if you want to take advantage of some truly beautiful beaches. Be sure to visit Potami, the virgin beach on the north west of the island. It is an 8-10 km drive from Samos Town. The blue sea is crystal clear and makes you feel as though you are paddling in the waters of the Caribbean.
Stop and visit the town of Kokkari, one of the most beautiful places on the way back to Samos town with a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Manolates and Vourliotes are also superb little villages.
Sample a Metaxa (Greek brandy) and try the local Samos muscat wine.
Things To See
The Samos Museum: in Samos Town is probably one of the most interesting museums in Greece. A large number of pieces from Archaic, Hellenistic and Roman Periods are on display for you to see.
The Temple of Hera and the famous Pythagoras Cave: are about 7-8 kilometres south-east of Pythagorion - the place where the famous Pythagoras lived and studied. On the journey up towards the cave there is a restaurant where you can stop to enjoy a refreshing drink.
Catch the sunset at one of the small traditional taverns located by the yacht marina at Pythagorion, where you can also taste local cuisine.