These are the most beautiful holiday resorts on Samos

Samos is located in the eastern Aegean Sea in Greece and, along with Ikaria and Fourni, belongs to the Southern Soprades archipelago. Although the island is relatively small, there are numerous resorts to choose from. From the island's capital, Samos Town, to small coastal villages: We'll show you the most beautiful resorts on Samos .

In the northeast of the island, the capital lies in a bay on a lush hill. Around 8,500 people live in Samos Town, the island's largest town. Many islanders refer to the island's capital by its ancient name, Vathy. Vathy was once one of the oldest villages on the island and today refers to the old town, which lies higher up on the slopes of the hill and is a listed building.

Traditional fishing boats in the harbor of the town of Samos on the island of the same name.

Source: imago images/NurPhoto

The city center of Samos Town stretches mainly along the harbor at Paralia. Wine and tobacco were once traded here. A handful of clubs and bars have settled above the harbor. Particularly worth seeing are the Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Wine Museum, the Church of Agios Spyridon, and the church dedicated to Saint Nicholas on Platia Nikolaou.

In the south of the island lies a town whose name is known worldwide: Pythagorio. In honor of the philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, who was a native of Samos, the town was renamed Pythagorio in 1955. Starting in the mid-19th century, the village, then called Tigani, developed on the ruins of the ancient city.

This lively harbor town is one of the most popular resorts on Samos. The bustling heart of Pythagorio lies along the harbor pier. Dozens of taverns and cafés are located here. Highlights include the castle complex of Lykourgos Logothetis, dating back to the Ottoman occupation, and the Blue Alley in the very south of town.

On the north coast of Samos lies Kokkari, one of the island's most important tourist resorts. Around 1,000 people live here, but the number is several more during peak season: then, numerous vacationers stroll through the photogenic alleys lined with souvenir shops, beach bars, and taverns. Kokkari's landmark is the offshore rock "Cavos" on the eastern waterfront promenade.

The holiday resort of Kokkari on the island of Samos is a postcard-perfect sight.

Source: IMAGO/Depositphotos

The harbor of Kokkari is a postcard-perfect scene: small fishing boats float in front of colorfully painted houses. Numerous bars, cafés, and souvenir shops line the waterfront promenade. The beach area of ​​the former fishing village consists of long pebble beaches and small coves.

The port town of Karlovasi on the north coast is the second-largest town on Samos. Nearly 7,000 people live here. The heart of the town center is Platia Valaskatzi. Here stands the town hall and several cafés and bars. Also worth seeing is the magnificent Church of Agios Nikolaos.

The Neo-Karlovasi district is home to most of the bars, restaurants, and shops. The Limani harbor district is home to the usual restaurants and hotels along the beach promenade. The most beautiful part of town is the Old Town, built on a hill south of the harbor. Here, the Agia Triada Church sits enthroned on a rocky outcrop above the harbor town.

Between Samos Town and Karlovasi, on the north coast, lies the small port town of Agios Konstantinos. This long, stretched-out resort is popular for its location: Agios Konstantinos is right next to the sea, but is also surrounded by magnificent scenery. From here, you can enjoy wonderful hikes, for example, into the Valley of the Nightingales.

The port town of Agios Konstantinos is located directly on the sea and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Source: IMAGO/Dreamstime

Agios Konstantinos consists of two parts. The old village, with the church of Agios Konstantinos, is located higher up, while the new section is built about 500 meters lower along the coast. This area is called "Gialos," meaning "beach," or "Kato Chorio," meaning "the lower village."

Mytilene lies inland between the towns of Kokkari and Pythagorio, west of the 1,153-meter-high Mount Karvounis, on the slopes of a hill. The town is the third-largest settlement on Samos and was once founded by residents of the island of Lesbos. Today, around 2,000 people live here.

A straight road runs through the village. The meeting point of Mytilene is the tranquil square, with several restaurants and cafés, where locals and holidaymakers gather under a large plane tree. The village has six churches and several chapels. The Natural History Museum is also worth a visit.

Those who want to experience the authentic side of Samos should also head to the island's mountain villages. These are the best places to experience everyday life in Samos. On the northern slopes of the Ambelos Mountains lies the picturesque village of Vourliotes, known for its narrow streets and colorful shutters, doors, and facades.

A great location on the island of Samos: the artists’ village of Manolates.

Source: imago images/imagebroker

From here, you have a magnificent view over vineyards all the way down to the sea. Just a few kilometers west lies the artists' village of Manolates. Here, you can stroll through photogenic alleys and visit numerous small shops selling pottery and handicrafts.

In the southwest of Samos, Marathokambos lies at an altitude of approximately 280 meters above sea level at the foothills of Mount Fterias. The village actually consists of three parts: the town, the harbor, called Ormos Marathokambos, and the small village of Kambos. The village is partially car-free.

Marathokambos enchants with narrow streets, closely built houses, stairways, archways, and small squares. The picturesque harbor beckons with a Greek flair thanks to several cafés and restaurants overlooking the colorful boats. Also worthwhile is a trip to the nearby Cave of Pythagoras, where, according to legend, the great mathematician once fled when he was persecuted by Polycrates.

Looking for more inspiration? You can find even more tips for Samos on our themed page . The best travel deals are available on our deals page .

travel reporter