Birthplace to some of the world’s most impactful philosophers, a producer of some of the best Greek wines, and only a 1.5-hour ferry ride from the coast of Turkey – Samos Island is a beautiful slice of Greek heaven located in the eastern region of the Aegean Sea.
Revisit your 8th-grade math lesson on the Pythagorean Theorem while actually visiting the hometown of Pythagoras! Step inside the caves in which Pythagoras lived and taught math while learning about his religious teachings.
Jet off to the nearby smaller islands, from Patmos to Ephesus in Turkey, and witness historical ruins and sites, while peeking into daily island life.
Visit the local villages, from Marathokambos Village to Karlovassi Village, each offering hidden gems to see from museums to traditional artisan crafts and more!
Finally relax in one of the island’s many beach clubs offering the perfect mix of music, fresh Greek food, and outstanding drinks.
With these plans and more, let’s see what makes Samos one of the best Greek islands to visit, while uncovering more fun things to do in Samos, Greece!
1 – Jet off to the Archaeological Site at Heraion of Samos
Discover the archeological site at Heraion of Samos, known to be the place where Zeus and Hera possibly had their 300-year honeymoon!
Though today the only remnant on the site is a column called Kolona, the surroundings of the site are doused in natural beauty worth checking out as you hear the stories.
Hop on a Samos Island Tour from the West to see this site, with bonus stops at the Temple of Hera and the attractive villages of Kokkari and Pythagorion.
2 – Bring your beach towel to Livadaki Beach
Stretch under the Grecian sun at the hidden Livadaki Beach, located on the northeast corner of the island, whether you’re looking to work on your tan, or you’re looking to get out on the water.
The beach is in a sheltered bay, so the currents are soft and shallow, making it perfect for those with families. Kayak rentals are available as are sun lounging chairs, and don’t forget to grab lunch at one of the seaside restaurants offering unbeatable views of the beach!
3 – Get lost in the alleyways of Pythagorion Village
Brimming with visuals of red-tiled roofs, dozens of outdoor cafes, and calm yet exciting seaside vibes, Pythagorion Village has evolved from a sleepy village to a roaring resort town.
From fishing to boating, or viewing the marina-filled yachts, Pyrhagorion Village has more than one attractive point of view.
Take a walking tour of the village, walk down the magical Blue Street, soaking in the beautiful themed white and blue houses, while admiring the Statue of Pythagoras, a Greek philosopher behind the Pythagorean Theorem.
4 – Explore the Aegean snorkeling and scuba diving in Kasonisi lagoon
Discover bright marine life, fascinating landforms, and ruins in perfect clarity when you snorkel and scuba dive in Kasonisi Lagoon.
Set on the pristine east coast of Samos, Kasonisi Lagoon is one of the most prized locations for its secluded location, crystal blue waters, and naturally protected bay.
Check out Kerveli Dive Center, offering several snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in both Greek and English, with passionate and experienced professionals who take both your and the lagoon’s wellbeing in mind.
5 – Witness 6th-century artifacts at the Archaeological Museum of Vathy
Set in the quaint Venetian and neoclassical Vathy Village, Samos’ capital on the northeastern part of the island, is the magnificent Archaeological Museum of Vathy.
Housing numerous cultural artifacts from the island, you’ll find tons of examples of pottery, bronze pieces, ivory-made items, and wooden and clay figurines that will perfectly describe daily life on the island as early as 570 B.C.
A must-see piece to see includes the Colossal Kouros a staggering 5.50m statue from the early 6th century BC.
6 – Relax on a boat tour through the Aegean
Sit back and relax, as the crystal blue waters of the Aegean carry you through the sea on a scenic boat tour experience.
Learn about the fascinating maritime history and marine life throughout the iconic Aegean Sea, while making a few pit stops throughout a few of the quaint islands and even doing some snorkeling!
You’ll also get the chance to relax on the southern coast of Samos, swim, or work on your tan while the delicious lunch is being prepared!
7 – Set foot inside the Zoodohos Pigi Monastery
Founded in 1756 by the monk Dorotheaus when he was in search of a place of quiet and to be closer to God, the Zoodhoso Pigi Monastery is a historical site that emanates peace.
Surrounded by forests, and the remnants of the chapel dedicated to Zoodohos Pigi, the site today can be visited. Walk through the historic wood and iron doors, and admire the Byzantine church, with its stunning dome and four pillars.
Admire the courtyard garden and all the detailed inscriptions throughout.
8 – Feel the rich history of Karlovassi Village
Karlovassi Village is the second largest town in Samos, and it is located west of Vathy Village. Drenched in heritage homes with neoclassical architecture, and dozens of churches, the town is divided into three parts – Old Town, Middle Town, and New Town.
Explore Karlovassi, and discover the historic, rich fishing industry on the port, wander to the ruins of a Byzantine castle, or day trip to the incredible waterfalls.
Visit the church of Agia Triada set on the highest hill in the village!
9 – Island hop to Patmos on a day trip
Speaking of day trips, make sure to plan one to Patmos, a stunning island on the Aegean Sea, south of Samos Island.
Enjoy a day tour with a prepared itinerary with the must-see hot spots on the island from the beauty of the village of Chora, walking down the promenade at Skala, or peeking through the Cave of the Apocalypse while learning its Biblical significance.
The ferry ride is a 2.5-hour journey with unmatched views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands.
10 – Admire ancient pieces inside the Archaeological Museum of Pythagoreion
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Pythagroeion, which keeps items mostly found in the town of Pythagoreion and offers a rich look into the historical happenings in the town that influenced Samos, with real artifacts.
Designed in chronological order, the museum carefully takes you throughout time as early as the 4th millennium BC, with must-see items including a marble statue of seated Aiakes, which is an item that was created for Hera by Aiakes, and the 2.71-meter tall statue of the emperor Trajan.
11 – Buy olive oil soaps at Marathokambos Village
Plan to visit Marathokambos Village, located one hour from Vathy Village on the west coast. Marathokambos Village is a town located on the slant of Mount Kerkis, with tons of parks, beautiful white homes, charming alleyways, and tons of beauty to get lost in!
The village is renowned for its talent for crafting high-quality olive oil soaps, so make sure to pick some up! Afterward, hit up Ormos Marathokambou beach to relax as you dip your toes in the soft sand.
12 – Appreciate the ancient engineering at the Tunnel of Eupalinos
Walk through the historic Tunnel of Eupalinos (aqueduct), a 1,036-meter-long tunnel that ran through Mount Kastro, and dates back to the 6th century.
The tunnel was used for more than 1,100 years, with the intention of collecting water from the springs on the other end of Mount Kastro. The mastermind behind this invention was Herodotus.
When you visit the tunnel be sure to bring a poncho and some slip-resistant shoes because of its small spaces and wet floors!
13 – Move your body with some yoga
Breathe in deeply the sea air and atmosphere during a rejuvenating yoga session!
Sign up for a relaxing and challenging yoga class in a beautiful studio with views of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean with a professional yogi!
Don’t worry about packing your own yoga mat and towel, all sanitized items are offered to you with your booking, as well as a coffee or tea break. The yoga class is offered at 5 PM and is open to all levels.
14 – Fall in love with the charm of Manolates Village
Sitting on the northern side of Samos Island is the idyllic Manolates Village, a picture-perfect village with dozens of winding narrow streets, cute homes, colorful potted plants perched outside window sills, and tons of vegetation nearby.
Enjoy wandering the village as you breathe in the sea air, walking underneath the tall trees in the village, or taking it to the outskirts, and doing some hiking to get in touch with the local natural scenery. Afterward, visit Kokkari Beach for a refreshing dip!
15 – Visit Pythagoras’ home and classroom at the Pythagoras Cave
You may have learned about the Pythagorean theory in math class, but did you ever think of the person behind this mathematical theorem and know that they were someone who existed thousands of years before?
The Pythagoras Caves are the caves inside the tallest peak in Samos, Mount Kerkis, where Pythagoras lived and taught math, philosophy, and his religion Pythagoreanism.
You can visit the caves, stalactites, and chapels nearby, which overlook all the way to Turkey.
The caves are 30 minutes from Samos.
16 – Sleep to the sound of waves at Potami Beach
Dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and turquoise-colored seas are just a few of the sights that you’ll see when you first get to Potami Beach, only a 43-minute drive west of Vathy.
The pebble beach is the perfect afternoon plan to enjoy the sun under the shady umbrellas on a sun lounger with a drink in hand. If you plan to take a dip in the cool water, be aware that it’s a bit deep.
Afterward, stick around for a glorious sunset!
17 – Take the ferry to Ephesus on a day trip
Travel to Ephesus, Turkey, to take in the historical significance of this powerful city, with a stroll in between its ancient columns holding together temples, while admiring the preserved ruins.
Your experienced tour guide will share with you the interesting facts and stories of day-to-day life in Ephesus, and its place as a commercial hub in the Mediterranean. See remnants of Christianity, ancient baths, and beautiful squares!
Before heading back, you’ll also get free time to explore the Turkish resort town of Kusadasi.
18 – Have a glass of wine at Mytilini Village
Known for its high-quality production of wine and tobacco, Mytilini Village is a beautiful town that sits 10 kilometers south of Vathy, offering quality items to add to your list of things to do in Samos.
Step inside the picturesque churches like the Agii Apostoli dotting the village, and check out the findings inside the Natural History Museum of the Aegean!
Admire the beautiful homes, and charming squares where the locals get together for some coffee or a perfect glass of local wine.
19 – Catch glimpses of nearby islands from Mount Kerkis
Check out the highest peak in Samos, Mount Kerkis, a popular yet challenging place to hike, that you can get to via Kosmadei Village, or find the trail at Kampos Marathokampou.
It is recommended that if you want to hike the mountain, you can choose 1 of the 5 trails to reach the top (1,433 meters). The roundtrip is approximately 11 kilometers!
Locals recommend going with a tour group, as the hike is pretty challenging, and people have gotten lost before.
20 – Visit the miraculous Virgin Mary at the Panagia Spiliani Monastery
Also known as the Virgin of the Cave, the Panagia Spiliani Monastery is a sacred space that holds tradition, history, and faith worth learning about.
Learn about the miraculous Virgin Mary inside the church housed inside a big cave that was stolen and broken at sea, and what exactly makes the statue miraculous. Observe the spring with holy water, and see other ancient temples in the same space.
With its setting on a tall hill, you’ll be gifted with incredible views of Pythagorion.
21 – Take up some surf lessons at Messakti Beach
What better way to enjoy the Aegean seas than to play in it with an exciting surf lesson!
Whether you’ve never surfed before or you have, take on the guidance of experienced surf instructors taking you from beginner to comfortable on the board!
If you’re not quite ready for surfing, consider taking a Stand Up Paddleboarding lesson, where you’ll learn all the basics to get you up and going!
If you’re experienced with SUP, consider wave riding lessons on a SUP surf experience.
22 – Feel the mist of the Potami Waterfalls
During a hot day in Samos, the next best thing to refreshing yourself at the beach is refreshing yourself at a scenic waterfall! Potami Waterfalls are on the western coast of the island, 3 kilometers from the estuary of “the river of Kastania”.
Find the canyon by the river, surrounded by dense forest, and the sounds of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Take the easy Paleo Karlovasi forest trail, starting at Karlovasi port, and pass through various historical sites and natural beauty.
23 – Learn about local tanning work at the Museum of Tanning
We’re not talking about what you’ll be doing on the beach, but instead tanning as in leather craftsmanship! Check out the interesting history of tanning on the island, unique to any other part of Greece.
Learn about the prosperous production of treating animals skins to produce leather throughout the 19th century, while learning about the pros and cons of this industry, and how it impacted the island and its residents.
The museum is located inside the original tannery in Karlovasi. Admission is free.
24 – Plan a trip to Samiopoula’s beaches
Samiopoula is a beautiful islet located south of Samos, and its name “small Samos” isn’t only indicative of its small nature, but also its population with only 5 residents on the island!
Take a boat to the beautiful island from Samos, and enjoy lunch on Kakorema beach in between taking photos of the picture-perfect beaches.
After your delicious beachside lunch, check out the small churches like the Agia Pelagia, and take note of the beautiful cliffs, nature, and why not, a refreshing swim!
25 – Taste traditional wine at UWC Samos Winery
With a wine-making legacy of over 2,000 years, you can bet that you’ll have some incredibly decadent wine in Samos, and one of the best places to try it out is with UWC Samos Winery.
Try the White Muscat wine, also known as moschoudi, which due to the island’s fertile grounds and specific soil minerals, it’s especially luscious in Samos.
Enjoy a complete experience viewing the vineyards, learning about the wine-making process all the way to the enjoyment of it!
26 – Buy local pottery crafts at Mavratzei Village
Make your way to the attractive Mavratzei Village, located in the middle of Samos, only 30 minutes from Vathy Village.
Whether you take a pottery class or you buy a pottery object from local artisans, make sure to check out this specific craft that is specialized in the village.
Next, take a selfie with the large rock located northwest of the village, with many holes, drawing in crowds of people eager to take a look at this natural phenomenon!
27 – Get incredible views near the ruins of the Venetian Castle
Set only 40 minutes west of Vathy, near the Potami waterfalls, are the Ruins of the Venetian Castle, another historical stop on your Samos itinerary!
In the same space is a 10th-century church called the Metamorphosis Church, which you can also walk in and appreciate some of the religious relics and icons hung on the walls.
To get to the castle, walk up the hill behind the church to the top, where you’ll get excellent views of the church below.
28 – Analyze ancient fossils at the Museum der Naturgeschichte der Ägäis
Look at all the wonders inside the Museum der Naturgeschichte der Ägäise also known as the Natural History Museum of the Aegean.
Divided into 5 separate sections, you can wander all through paleontology, mineralogy, geology, botany, and zoology.
Learn more about Samos’ natural abundance from current and historic animals to different natural species from plants to animals that existed way back when. From fossils to exotic marine life skeletons, and unique flora specimens on the island.
29 – Bring hiking boots for a trek to Vourliotes and Platanakia
Cross vineyards, valleys, and forests with uninterrupted views of the sea when you book a hiking trip to Vourliotes and Platanakia, two popular hiking excursions located on the northern side of Samos.
On your guided group hike, you’ll safely traverse these beautiful trails, while learning about the local history of the island and the trails.
To prepare, make sure to bring your own hiking gear, water, snacks, and SPF. There may be a swimming break in between, so bring your swimsuit!
30 – Do a fun water sport at Kokkari Village
Kokkari Village is a destination in Samos, with tons to offer visitors to the island, from pristine beaches to exhilarating water sports activities, not to mention the beauty of the seaside village and fishing culture.
From the stunning architecture to the charming squares to the nature that surrounds the beautiful town, hit the pebble beaches like Tsambou, do some windsurfing, or trek to the top of the forested hills to appreciate the peninsula.
Kokkari village is only 15 minutes west of Samos.
31 – Get wine-making behind the scenes at Vakakis Winery
If you can’t get enough of local wine (we can’t blame you!) check out Vakakis Winery, a stunning winery proudly producing quality made wine with local ingredients, 43 minutes west of Vathy.
Take a tour of the grounds, learn about the grape harvesting process, all the way to see with your eyes how much love is poured into the actual wine-making process and the bottling and packaging of the wine.
Set in beautiful surroundings, sample the best wines while inside the stunning tasting room.
32 – See Greek antiques inside the Karlovasi Folklore Museum
The Karlovasi Folklore Museum is a true look into the cultural heritage and day-to-day life of the locals of Samos, with exhibits showcasing everything from local legends, to daily used items like sofras (a low table that families dined on).
Take a look at items that date between 1870-1955, where you can learn and appreciate a different way of life through the objects, many of which may still exist in local’s homes today!
Entry to the museum is free.
33 – Lather on the SPF and head to other amazing beaches
Near Pythagorion, check out Potokaki Beach, where you can rent and relax in a sun lounger under an umbrella.
Close to the coast of Turkey (you can even see it!) is Mykali Beach, a stunning pebble beach perfect for families and friends to gather for a picnic at the beach, or doing watersports.
Posidonio Beach is the perfect option for those looking for a secluded beach on the eastern coast. Bring a book, your towel, and your favorite drink and you’re set!
34 – Do some comfortable sightseeing on a bus tour
Give your feet a rest, and take an informative bus tour throughout Samos, where you’ll get an all-encompassing guided tour!
Explore the main sites throughout the island, from visiting the hometown of Pythagoras to tasting local wine at different village wineries, enjoying an exciting pottery workshop, and taking picture breaks in between.
This experience is great for those short on time who want to see the main spots of the island or those who want to explore numerous activities in one day.
35 – Glide through the water windsurfing in Kokkari
Samos is a windsurfing haven, so make sure to head to the beautiful town of Kokkari to do some windsurfing activities with Samos Windsurfing.
Whether you’re looking for an activity for yourself or even your children if you’re traveling with them, Windsurfing Samos offers guidance, and equipment for you! For children and those who want to start slow, make your appointment for the morning when the winds aren’t too strong.
For those who have experience, make your appointments in the afternoon and beyond.
36 – Experience Byzantine daily life at the Tower of Lykourgos Logothetis
Add visiting a Byzantine castle to your list of things to do in Samos when you visit the Tower of Lykourgos Logothetis, an impressive castle that has been turned into a museum.
The tower holds several exhibits that showcase life in the early Byzantine era, with the use of technology and artifacts like coins, pottery, maps, documents, and much more.
The artifacts are those found near the village of Pythagoreio, where the museum is currently. Admission is free.
37 – Learn the fascinating story behind the Samostan Megali Panagia
The Samostan Megali Panagia is a sacred monastery in the southern part of Samos, founded by two monks in 1586.
After moving consistently, they finally decided to settle in the spot where the monastery sits currently after finding a ceramic icon showcasing scenes from the Virgin Mary Elsodia.
Today, you can visit the sacred space and enjoy the peaceful courtyard, the impressive church of Megali Panagia, the unique marble, and wood details throughout, and the frescoes.
Pro tip: dress modestly during your visit.
38 – Attend an amazing show at the Ancient Theater of Samos
Visit the ruins of what was once a thriving place of entertainment at the 4th century BC Ancient Theatre of Samos, where actors and audiences danced, sang, and had some incredible times.
Take a look at the spaces where the actors would perform, the orchestra pit, the order in which the audience seating was determined, and many more curiosities of theatre life in Samos.
The theater has been renovated to accommodate performances today, so grab your tickets and enjoy a show there!
39 – Master some Greek dishes in a cooking class
Tap into your inner chef at a cooking class where you’ll not only learn the basics of Greek cuisine, but you’ll also get to try it too!
Step into a local’s kitchen to cook traditional Ikarian cuisine from the region made up of delicious ingredients like potatoes, fish, honey, and legumes.
Learn from the locals not only the healthy dishes typically enjoyed but also how their lifestyle impacts their long life expectancy. Good news for vegetarians, most dishes are vegetarian-friendly!
40 – Order a drink and lounge at the best beach bars
On the north coast of Samos, check out Calma Beach Bar where you can relax on the calm and clean beach, with nearby cafes and restaurants to munch on, or chill out with the DJ pumping tracks and with a signature cocktail at Navagos Beach Bar.
Want to head to the southern coast? Check out Tortuga Beach Bar to listen to live Greek music with traditional bites, or head to Asteria Beach Pythagoreio for chic seaside beach vibes with good music.
Want to play some volleyball on the beach? Head to Beach Volley Potokaki!
41 – Combat the heat by playing other water sports
Do some scenic and fun kayaking around the Aegean with Sea Kayak Samos! Explore other remote beaches and paddle near ancient caves and more.
Take it easy and hop on a boat or pedalboat and jet off onto the crystal blue waters for the day with Wind & Water. If that’s not enough adrenaline for you, check out waterskiing, wakeboarding, and wake surfing. They have it all!
Lastly, Samos Watersports has incredible opportunities to enjoy Samos’ best beaches, from jet skiing or boating around.
42 – Kick the fun into high gear at Samos Go Kart Center
Fill your need for speed go-karting at Samos Go Kart Center, where you can rent a 4-wheeled kart and race with your friends around the track. Offering easy-to-maneuver karts with comfort and cutting-edge technology, now’s your chance to destress!
Samos Go Kart is open daily from 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM from the first weekend of June to September 30th.
Pro tip: if your group of 4 or more is visiting in August, reserve your slot ahead of time to avoid waiting.
43 – Connect the clues inside an escape room
Figure out the murder mystery or who stole the highly prized art piece inside a world-famous museum when you check out the different fun rooms inside Samos Escape!
Whether it’s just you and one other person, or up to 6, put your heads together and select from a few different themed escape rooms, and exercise your brain to help you beat other record times!
To avoid waiting in lines, make sure to make your escape room reservation online.
44 – Tantalize your tastebuds at the best restaurants
Indulge in Greek food glory at Kalamies, offering exquisite homemade cuisine with a side of housemade wine and views of the Aegean sea right from your seat. This is what we call bliss!
Located in Pythagoreio is the fine dining Taverna Lakis, offering dishes made from locally produced vegetables and meats that have Greek roots with a modern twist.
Gialos is another splendid Greek restaurant offering unmatched views of the sea, featuring a great variety of fresh seafood, on the southern coast.
45 – Rock out at Ireon Music Festival
Are you a music festival lover? Visit Samos during the Ireon Music Festival, known as the Aegean’s largest summer music festival taking place August 7-9th!
Listen to several Greek acts, from indie, folk, rock, and more, delivering the ultimate music bash you cannot miss out on in Ireon Village.
Tickets will be going on sale soon, so make sure to head to their website to continue checking when they’re open for purchase! You can also opt to buy them at the door.
46 – Enjoy the Samos nightlife like a local
Party on the terrace of Escape Music Club in Vathy Village, with the breeze and views directly from the Aegean for the perfect night out!
Order the signature cocktail at Corner Bar, a local watering hole entertaining locals since 1938. Solid All Day Bar is the perfect place where you can go for breakfast, and then visit at night for beach-inspired cocktails! En Plo Bar is a great place for socializing, playing darts, and checking out the hookah bar.
Those looking for a fancy night out under the string lights, surrounded by art and music check out Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar.
Check out the themed nights and dressed to impress at Mezza Volta! Boa Vista is another hot dance club on the island, especially pumping out top Latin hits!
How to get to Samos?
There are a few ways to get to Samos, whether it’s arriving by plane at Samos Airport, or taking a ferry from a few cities in Greece, including Athens.
To get to your hotel in Samos, we recommend booking an airport transfer! Easily pre-book and have your airport transfer await you to take you to your hotel on the island.
Where to stay in Samos?
Relax under the umbrellas or a hammock on the beach with a good book at the Proteas Blu Resort in Pythagoreio. Relax in the comfortable rooms with views of the sea, but before bed, take in the sunset from the rooftop bar and garden.
Doryssa Seaside Resort oozes style, character, and pure peace with a high 5-star rating! Enjoy the friendly staff making your stay comfortable, and enjoy the special linen bedding for extra comfort in the summer.
Aeolis Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking to stay under budget, without sacrificing quality, and cleanliness. Enjoy air-conditioned, spacious rooms, and modern facilities, including a panoramic rooftop terrace!
Take a dip in the pool on a hot Samos day at Arion Hotel, or go to the nearby beach. Enjoy local Greek food at the restaurant in the hotel, which will quickly turn into a Greek party with live music!
Where to go next?
Enjoy the beauty of the Greek islands, especially in the North Aegean Sea, including Icaria, Chios, and Lesbos.
From sights like the Temple of Apollo to a hike through Cedar Forest and Alyko Beach, Naxos is a must-visit island on any Greece itinerary.
The white-washed houses of Santorini perched up on the caldera with impressive sunsets from above is an absolute must-experience!
Relax at the thermal springs in Kos after trekking the same paths that many gods did at Asklepieon.
They party hard in Mykonos, but don’t forget the other fun like getting lost in Old Mykonos and walking to the Mykonos windmills!
Enjoy a walk through the beautiful Lefkes Village in Paros, and have dinner with a view at the Old Port of Naoussa.
Listen to the incredible acoustics at the Rhodes Acropolis or take a refreshing walk through the Valley of the Butterflies in Rhodes.
Final thoughts
Ready for your trip to Samos? From stunning wineries dotting the island, to the archeological site at Heraion of Samos and the exquisite and healthy island cuisine, Samos is the epitome of living that beautiful island life.
We hope you enjoyed our list of the fun things to do in Samos – which one caught your eye the most?
Happy travels!