Samos

Samos, Greece

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.

Population:

33,000

Currency:

Euro, €1 = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

Fire: 119
First aid: 166
Fire department: +30 22730 22199
Forest rangers: +30 22730 27435

Opening Hours:

Shops generally open from about 9am to 9-10pm. Many establishments close for a few hours in the early afternoon for siesta, but most restaurants, bars and cafes stay open late, often past midnight.

Newspapers:

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

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.

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.