Samos island is one of the most popular Greek islands, located on the East Aegean Sea, across the shores of Minor Asia. The island has a true natural beauty that features lush green mountainous landscapes, endless vineyards across the island, picturesque fishing villages and breathtaking sandy beaches. It also enjoys a very conducive temperate climate, which makes it an ideal holiday destination.
Below is a guide on how you can spend a perfect holiday on this beautiful Greek island.
Looking for accommodation in Samos Island? Check out Luxury Holiday Villas in Samos Island!Top Sightseeing Sights In Samos
Samos is a vast island with numerous sightseeing spots that range from exotic beaches to fishing villages, medieval buildings, museumS, churches and excursion sights.
1) The Heraion Sanctuary
The Heraion Sanctuary is An archaeological site that hosts the remains of the Hera Temple, which was a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess Hera during the ancient times. The temple was destroyed in the 6th century.
2) The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis
The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis is a historical structure in Samos island, which was built by Lykourgos Logothetis in the 19th century. The castle is located southwest to the port of Pythagorion, and it used to be the headquarters of the revolution against Turks.
3) The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani
The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani is located in the northwest region of Pythagorion, on top of a hill about 125 meters above sea level. The monastery operates as a church, and it is believed to have been a place of worship even during the ancient times. The location of the monastery offers an amazing view of the village as well as the port of Pythagorion.
4) The Cave of Pythagoras
The Cave of Pythagoras is an important cave in the Greek history and culture, which is located on a steep cliff, on the western region of the island, close to Marathokambos. It is believed to have been the hiding place of Pythagoras, the famous mathematician, while he was trying to avoid his political opponents.
5) The Archaeological Museum of Vathy
The Archaeological Museum of Vathy is located in the town of Vathy, the capital of Samos island. The museum is home to several artifacts that are found from excavations all over the island. Some of the objects exhibited in the museum include sculptures depicting scenes from the Greek mythology, weaponry and pottery pieces.
6) The Tunnel of Eupalinus
The Tunnel of Eupalinus is a symbol of the technological advancement that existed even during the ancient times in Greece. The tunnel was constructed in the 6th century BC, and it was used as a water system for the ancient city of Samos. The system was used to supply water to the city for a thousand years and was abandoned in 7th century AD.
7) Tsamadou Beach
Tsamadou beach is an exotic beach located on the northern side of the island, in Tsamadou, about 3 kilometers from Kokkari. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Samos Island, which is surrounded by lush green vegetation and features breathtaking crystal blue waters. The beach also has a section that is used by naturists, making it the only official nudist beach on the island.
8) Lemonakia Beach
Lemonakia beach is another beautiful sandy beach on Samos island. It is located on a sheltered bay on the northern side of the island, about 13 kilometers from the town of Vathy. The beach has very soft sand, crystal clear blue waters, and is surrounded by lush green vegetation, which creates a very scenic view.
Top Activities While Vacationing On Samos Island
In addition to sightseeing spots, Samos is also a place where you can enjoy various exciting activities during your holiday. Below are some of the top activities that you may engage in:
1) Windsurfing
In Samos you will experience some quite strong winds, especially during the summer, making it ideal for windsurfing. There is a number of windsurfing centers located in the island, which offer windsurfing courses, as well as rent equipment to tourists. Some of the best spots where you can enjoy windsurfing on the island include Kokkari, Agios Konstantinos beach, and Tsamadou Beach, which experiences quite strong winds.
2) Hiking
Hiking is another exciting activity that you can enjoy during your holidays in Samos island. The island’s countryside is especially great for hiking, where you can find footpaths and hiking trails that lead to top attraction sights such as vineyards, monasteries, waterfalls, and caves.
3) Scuba diving
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Samos island. The island has numerous scuba diving centers, which offer scuba diving courses as well as trips to diving sites around the island, including old shipwrecks. Scuba dividing centers can be found in Pythagorion, Karlovassi, Kokkari, and Kerveli.
Top Places To Eat In Samos
While vacationing in Samos Island, the following are some of the top spots where you can enjoy delicious dishes:
1) Poseidon
Poseidon is a traditional restaurant located in Kokkari, which is famous for serving a wide variety of seafood dishes. The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Greek dishes such as mousaka, cuttlefish, stuffed kalamari, and pastitsio.
2) Corner Café
Corner café is located in Pythagorion, and it is popular for serving various snacks alongside various refreshments, cocktails, fresh juices, and coffee. The café is located just next to the Pythagorion port, and it offers an amazing view of the overlooking Aegean Sea.
3) Gialos
Gialos is a seaside restaurant located in Marathokambos, which serves various Greek and local dishes that are prepared traditionally.
4) Chesters
Chesters is a popular beach bar – restaurant located in Marathokambos beach, which offers a variety of Greek cuisines. The island is also famous for serving various western dishes.
If you choose to spend your holidays in Greece this year, either with your family, your soulmate or your friends, Samos would be definitely one of the recommended destinations. Book your holiday accommodation in Samos now!