Samos

The mythical birthplace of the goddess Hera is certainly worthy of its divine reputation. As one of the greenest of all Aegean islands. Nature-lovers and beach-bums alike are attracted to its pebbled beaches, green expanses and impressive rocky cliffs. The island is also famous for its vineyards and 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.

Samos

Data and facts

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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.
Population: 33,000
Tourist Information: Regional Unit of Samos, Department of Tourism
Dervenakion and Alexi Alexi str, Samos
+30 22733 50401
visit@samos.gr

- Do & See

Tunnel of Eupalinos

Perhaps the greatest testament to the scientific genius of Samos' golden-age citizens, the 1,034-metre-long Tunnel of Eupalinos was an aqueduct and service tunnel built beginning in 524 BC. This incredible feat of ancient engineering claimed the lives of many workers, but brought vital drinking water to the inhabitants of Pythagoreio, then a metropolis of 80,000.

Tunnel of Eupalinos

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Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 22730 61400
www.eupalinos-tunnel.gr
Tue-Sun 8am-3pm

The Heraion

Though today only some ruins remain, this temple dedicated to the goddess Hera (and built in the 6th century BC on the site where according to she was born) was once four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens. The road leading to the site from Pythagoreio was once lined with impressive statues that led the way to the temple.

The Heraion

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Ireon, Samos
+30 22730 95277
Tue-Sun 8am-3pm

Livadaki Beach

About 10 kilometres north of Vathy lies one of the islands most pristine beaches, Livadaki. The waters are crystalline, the sand is soft, and both are warm and welcoming. It is even possible to borrow free kayaks and umbrellas to find protection from the sun.

Livadaki Beach

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Livadaki Beach, Vathy

Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis

The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis (named after a resistance leader of the War of Independece), dating back to 1824, imposingly overlooks the bay at Pythagoreio. Visitors are free to explore the remnants of the castle and take in the breathtaking views from above.

Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis

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Pythagoreio, Samos
www.greeka.com/eastern_aegean/samos/samos-excursions/samos-logothetis-castle.htm
Tue-Sun 9am-dusk

Archaeological Museum

This impressive museum showcases ancient archaeological artifacts dating back as far as the 6th century BC. The highlights include ceramics, bronze sculptures and statues, including an enormous 5 and a half metre statue taken from the Heraion near Pythagoreio (the largest of its kind).

Archaeological Museum

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Vathy, Samos
+30 22730 27469
Tue-Sun 8am-3pm

Monastery of Panagia Spiliani

A short distance from the city of Pythagoreion, atop a hill with wonderful views of the surrounding area and coast, lies the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. As if the views and the quaint monastery weren't enough to lure you up, visitors can descend into a small cave, at the bottom of which there is a tiny underground chapel.

Monastery of Panagia Spiliani

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Pythagoreio, Samos

Potami Waterfalls

If one ventures to the northwest of the island, through forest paths of green and mud, it is possible to find the beautiful Potami Waterfalls, a popular and picturesque swimming hole hidden among large slick rocks. Nearby there are a few places where you can find refreshments, making the area a great place for a day-trip.

Potami Waterfalls

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Karlovasi, Samos

Lemonakia Beach

Lemonakia Beach is less windy and has calmer waters than other beaches in the area. There are several options for food and drinks (Andrea's Place is the most popular restaurant in the area), and there are also showers, toilets and playground areas.

Lemonakia Beach

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Kokkari, Samos

Mikro Seitani

If you can only visit one beach during your stay on Samos, be sure to make it Mikro Seitani. This small and secluded beach is reachable only on foot or by boat, and it is well worth the hike. Surrounded by large rock formations and lush vegetation, it is by far the most scenic beach on the island.

Mikro Seitani

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Karlovasi, Samos

Cave of Pythagoras

Greek philosopher and thinker Pythagoras is perhaps the most famous son of Samos, and it is possible to visit his caves on Mount Kerkis. The larger of the two caves was used as a classroom for his students, while the nearby smaller cave was used as his living quarters.

Cave of Pythagoras

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Mount Kerkis, Marathokampos, Votsalakia, Samos

Samos Wine Museum

This is a small and rather basic museum, but its exhibits are beautiful and the whole place has a pleasant rustic ambiance. Learn about the wine-production process and admire the interesting contraptions that have been used in the region's wine-making history.

Samos Wine Museum

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Malagari, Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 087511
www.samoswine.gr
Mon-Sat 10Aam-5:30pm

Tsamadou Beach

Tsamadou Beach is perhaps the most popular beach on the whole island of Samos, and it's not hard to see why. The water is at once crystal clear and a vibrant shade of blue-green that has to be seen to be believed. There is a restaurant nearby and plenty of sunbeds, but it tends to be quite busy.

Tsamadou Beach

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Tsamadou, Kokkari, Samos

Balos Beach

Balos Beach is a more relaxed and less frequented beach on the south side of the island of Samos, but it is by no means less picturesque than some of the more popular beaches.

Balos Beach

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Balos Beach is a more relaxed and less frequented beach on the south side of the island of Samos, but it is by no means less picturesque than some of the more popular beaches.

Koumeika, Samos

Megalo Seitani

An additional 30 minute walk beyond Mikro Seitani, the even more secluded and idyllic Megalo Seitani is maybe the most beautiful beach on Samos. The white pebbles and azure water are framed by lush green hills in every direction.

Megalo Seitani

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Karlovasi, Samos

Psili Ammos Beach

Another beautiful and relaxing beach, Psili Ammos, on the south side of the island of Samos, boasts calm, clear waters and a soft sandy beach.

Psili Ammos Beach

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Another beautiful and relaxing beach, Psili Ammos, on the south side of the island of Samos, boasts calm, clear waters and a soft sandy beach.

Marathokampos, Samos

- Dining

Stella

Down a narrow winding path from Balos Beach lies Stella, a restaurant that serves beautifully presented and expertly prepared specialties from Cyprus. The area is green and refreshing, and the traditional food is served with a contemporary twist in the beautiful garden.

Stella

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Balos Beach, Ormos Koumeikon, Samos
+30 694 753 5325

Lakis Restaurant

Fabulous Greek cuisine is served at this no-frills restaurant in Pythagoreion. Prices are very reasonable, and the warm and welcoming staff is very generous with their free desserts and ouzo. Seafood is the specialty, and the Chicken Souvlaki comes highly recommended.

Lakis Restaurant

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Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 061252

Casa di Roma

Casa di Roma, located in the picturesque Pythagoreion harbour, is a popular Italian restaurant that specialises in Mediterranean dishes, as well as pasta and pizza. Be sure to also try the wonderful desserts, which include cheesecake, tiramisu and apple pie with ice cream.

Casa di Roma

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Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 062962
casadiroma.manifo.com
Mon-Sat 9am-1am, Sun 9am-12am

Elia Restaurant

With a prime location right by the beach in the Port of Pythagoreion, Elia Restaurant has a passion for creating unique flavours in all of their dishes, which range from Greek and Mediterranean and seafood to steak and vegetarian options. The outdoor seating is ideal for warm summer nights.

Elia Restaurant

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Port of Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 061436
www.eliarestaurant-samos.gr
Daily 11am-12:30am

The Steps

The Steps boasts what is perhaps the best mealtime view in the Vathy area. Guests can gorge themselves on tasty mezes, refreshing salads and Mediterranean specialties from the restaurant's wonderful terrace overlooking the Vathy bay area. Favourite dishes include stuffed mushrooms and spicy kebab.

The Steps

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2 Pavlou Kountourioti, Vathy
+30 2273 028639
Daily 1pm-12am

Taverna Garden

Taverna Garden in Vathy boasts atmosphere and personality. Seating is in a walled court yard with refreshing shade provided by greenery. There is often live traditional music and the staff has been known to join in the dancing on special nights.

Taverna Garden

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Kalomiri, Samos
+30 2273 024033
Daily 10am-12am

Verghina Beach Bar and Restaurant

Just north of Vathy, perfectly situates on an idyllic beach, lies Verghina, a bar and restaurant where you can easily spend a whole day alternating back and forth between the waves, the sand, the sunbeds and the bar.

Verghina Beach Bar and Restaurant

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Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 080057
www.in-samos.com/el/company/estiatorio-verghina/
Daily 8am-12am

Nick the Greek

Claimed by some to be the best restaurant on the island, Nick the Greek has it all: perfect location, warm service, delicious food, and a heaps of personality. The titular Nick never fails to serve up something special, always using the very freshest seafood. There is also live traditional music every Saturday.

Nick the Greek

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Kampos Marathokampou, Samos
+30 2273 037261

Chesters on the Beach

Chesters is the perfect chillout place to spend a lazy day eating and drinking at the beach in the southwest part of the island. The food is lovely, the drinks are cold, and the view on the sea is stunning. Come for the hearty breakfasts, or gorge yourself on one of Chester's huge burgers.

Chesters on the Beach

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Kampos Marathokampou, Samos
+30 2273 037656
Daily 9am-11pm

Aelio Bistro Cafe

Samos' north coast also boasts some extremely fine eateries, including Aelio Bistro Cafe. The breezy sea view is almost unreal, as are the fabulous desserts, rich fondue and colourful cocktails. It is a great place for any time of day, be it for your morning coffee or a nightcap.

Aelio Bistro Cafe

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092898
Daily 8am-2am

Basilico

Basilico is an Italian restaurant and Pizzeria that has one of the dreamiest settings in Kokkari, overlooking the tranquil bay. Italian specialties are on offer, from pasta and pizza to fabulous gnocchi and tiramisu.

Basilico

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092625
Daily 5pm-12am

Restaurant Poseidon

Poseidon is an ideally located hotel and restaurant, just 2 minutes from the Kokkari bay and 15 minutes away from Vathy. Named after the mythical god of the sea, Poseidon offers, as one might expect, heavenly traditional Greek food and seafood, always served fresh.

Restaurant Poseidon

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 697 411 5176
www.poseidon-kokkari.gr
Daily 10am-12am

Meltemi Restaurant

Another fabulous restaurant with a superb location right on the Kokkari beach. It is a traditional Greek family restaurant that offers some of the freshest seafood on the island, as well as other Greek specialties and a great selection of local wines.

Meltemi Restaurant

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092586
www.restaurant-meltemi.gr

To Kyma

This restaurant is a bit further afield than most, in the small town of Ireion, but the journey is worth it. The chefs at To Kyma always produce innovative dishes from their varied menu and have no trouble accommodating dietary restrictions or preferences.

To Kyma

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Ireion, Samos
+30 2273 095319
Daily 12am-12pm

Dionysos Restaurant

Located on the main road in the city of Pythagoreion, this restaurant is named after the mythical Greek god of wine and viniculture. It is a modern but cosy place that serves some fabulous Mediterranean delicacies, always accompanied by the finest local wines.

Dionysos Restaurant

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Likourgou Logotheti, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 693 796 6412
www.dionysos-restaurant.gr
Daily 11am-3pm and 6pm-12am

- Cafes

Two Spoons

Two Spoons offers what is perhaps the best coffee on Samos, their staff serving expertly-prepared espressos, cappuccinos and lattes. But the star of the show at Two Spoons is without a doubt the enormous and decadent desserts, which include cheesecake, ice cream and muffins entirely submerged in molten chocolate.

Two Spoons

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Melissou, Remataki Beach, Pythagoreion
+30 227 306 2336

Aelio Bistro Cafe

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092898
Daily 8am-2am

Koursaros Cafe

Koursaros Cafe, located on the southern coast of the island, defines itself as a sports cafe, cocktail bar and beer centre. Besides their premium coffee, be sure to cool off on a hot day with one of their frappes or slushies.

Koursaros Cafe

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Ormos Marathokampou, Samos
+30 697 824 7095
Daily 10am-2:30am

Corner Bar

Corner Bar is something of an institution in Samos. It was established all the way back in 1938 and remains a popular place among both locals and tourists. They keep customers coming back by serving fantastic coffee and a huge variety of delicious cocktails and freshly made juices.

Corner Bar

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Lykourgou Logotheti, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 062153
Daily 8am-4am

Poquito Cafe-Bar

Enjoy your morning coffee with the sea breeze brushing your skin on the outdoor terrace of Poquito Cafe-Bar. This beach-side cafe serves fantastic lattes and cappuccinos in an idyllic setting on Samos' north coast, directly on Kokkari beach.

Poquito Cafe-Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092205
Daily 8am-12am

Kalimera Cafe

With a great location by Kokkari bay, Kalimera Cafe is a coffee house by day and a bar by night. The outdoor courtyard, with its cobblestone setting, is quaint and welcoming, inviting guests to linger and watch the world go by as they sip on their cappuccino or cocktail.

Kalimera Cafe

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092876

Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar

Iera Odos is one of the island's classiest establishments, attracting an erudite crowd with its sophisticated vibe, art events and live music. Guests can enjoy their drinks on the balcony or in the more private garden area. All manner of drinks are served, but an order of ouzo comes with a little meze.

Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar

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Lykourgos Logothetis (Bus Station), Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 061091
ieraodoscafebistro.blogspot.se

Cafe Del Mar

Cafe del Mar is an elegant and cosy beach-side cafe where guests lay in comfortable lounge chairs as they sip their drinks and admire the sunset. You can complement your coffee, tea or cocktail with a variety of food and snacks, including sandwiches, fruit salad or even sushi.

Cafe Del Mar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092779
Daily 9am-2:30am

Face Cafe-Bar

Another great cafe-bar located right on the Kokkari bay, Face Cafe-Bar has the view, the ambiance, the personality and the colourful drinks, eberything one needs to enjoy an afternoon coffee or evening cocktail.

Face Cafe-Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092575

Perri Orekseos

A quaint cafe on the main street of Pythagoreion, Perri Orekseos is one of the best places to have breakfast on the whole island. Their homemade products stand out, like their pies and decadent desserts, as well as their milkshakes, fruit salads and sandwiches.

Perri Orekseos

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Polykrati, Lykourgou Logotheti, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 062990
www.perriorekseos.com/index-filer/Page666.htm
Mon-Sat 6am-3pm and 5pm-2am, Sun 9am-2:30pm and 6pm-1am

Line Creperie Beach Cafe

Line Creperie Beach Cafe is another beach-side establishment located at Kokkari beach. Sunbeds are free to use with the purchase of a meal, so many customers like to spend the whole afternoon lying in the sun after enjoying their meal, dessert, pastry of coffee.

Line Creperie Beach Cafe

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Ammos Beach, Kokkári, Samos
+30 694 414 3985

Solid Espresso Bar

Solid Espresso Bar is a modern, sleek and hip coffee house that attracts young and fashionable crowds. It has been described a place for "real coffee lovers", taking pride in its expertly prepared coffee drinks, cocktails and desserts, as well as its burgers and similar comfort food.

Solid Espresso Bar

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43 Sofouli Themistokli, Vathy
+30 69728 05105
Daily 8am-2am

Cavos Cafe Bar

Cavos Cafe Bar is as good for coffee as it is for late night drinks or an afternoon snack. Visitors find something to their liking at any time of day. Ideally located with a great view of the Kokkari bay, Cavos attracts locals and tourists alike.

Cavos Cafe Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 22730 92426
cavos.kokkari.biz

- Bars & Nightlife

Verghina Beach Bar and Restaurant

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Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 080057
www.in-samos.com/el/company/estiatorio-verghina/
Daily 8am-12am

Koursaros Cafe

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Ormos Marathokampou, Samos
+30 697 824 7095
Daily 10am-2:30am

Corner Bar

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Lykourgou Logotheti, Pythagoreion, Samos
+30 2273 062153
Daily 8am-4am

Poquito Cafe-Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092205
Daily 8am-12am

Iera Odos Art Cafe-Bar

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Lykourgos Logothetis (Bus Station), Pythagoreion, Samos
+30 2273 061091
ieraodoscafebistro.blogspot.se

Face Cafe-Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 2273 092575

Cavos Cafe Bar

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 22730 92426
cavos.kokkari.biz

Gregory's Bar

Gregory's is an all-day cafe and bar in the port of Pythagoreio. Visitors can have waffles in the morning, coffee after lunch, fresh fruit juices or ice cream in the afternoon, and end the night with colourful and delicious cocktails while enjoying the music as the night comes to life in the harbour.

Gregory's Bar

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Logotheti Likourgou, Pythagoreio Port, Samos
+30 69 4417 0101
www.in-samos.com/company/gregorys-bar/
Daily 8am-3am

Boa Vista

Boa is a Vista music cocktail bar that always keeps the crowd in the mood for a party with their frequent themed nights, such as Latin dance night or Greek night, sometimes including live music. You can sip a drink on the rooftop terrace or dance the night away on the dance floor.

Boa Vista

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Kokkari, Samos
+30 697 689 6055

Escape Music Club

Escape Music Club claims to have "the most beautiful balcony of the Aegean," and that may not be an exaggeration. The breezy terrace hangs directly over the water, allowing guests to enjoy both the sunset and the cool night air. Visitors also highlight the chilled vibe, good choice of music and tasty cocktails.

Escape Music Club

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Kefalopoulou 9, Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 028345
Daily 9pm-6am

Wave Bar

Wave Bar is part of the Hotel Katerina, conveniently located right by the airport and just a stone's throw away from the beach. It is a simple and low-key establishment that serves refreshing drinks and some basic meals.

Wave Bar

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Potokaki, Samos
+30 2273 061963

Summertime Bar

Bright, breezy Summertime Bar in Pythagoreion is great for an afternoon drink by the bay. Portraits of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe cover the walls, watching over visitors as they enjoy fruity drinks and snacks such as club sandwiches, burgers and salads.

Summertime Bar

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Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 22730 62191
www.summertime.bar

En Plo Bar

En Plo makes the island's best cocktails, specialising in martinis and mojitos, combining high-quality ingredients with fine branded spirits. Guests are invited to create their own concoctions by combining elements and coming up with their own recipes for a unique nightlife experience.

En Plo Bar

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Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 061700
ww.tzortzisbar.wixsite.com/tzobar
Daily 11am-2pm and 5pm-1am

Mezza Volta

Mezza Volta in Vathy is perhaps the best place on the island to dance. Their themed nights, which include 70s, 80s and 90s nights, as well as latin dancing nights, are particularly popular.

Mezza Volta

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Mezza Volta in Vathy is perhaps the best place on the island to dance. Their themed nights, which include 70s, 80s and 90s nights, as well as latin dancing nights, are particularly popular.

Vathy, Samos
+30 698 577 1819
Fri-Sun 9pm-5am

My House

My house is a modern and vibrant cafe-bar that boasts one of the best views of the Vathy bay area from its large rooftop terrace. The facilities are sleek and elegant, and young, hip crowds gather here at all times of the day for coffee, food and late-night drinking.

My House

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Sofouli 63, Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 080150
www.myhouse.bar
Daily 8am-2am

- Shopping

Kallisti Gallery

Kallisti Gallery showcases the best of contemporary art and home decor from Greek designers and artists, including hand-made gold and silver jewels and art objects, intricate sculptures and glass-work, and very artful trinkets and knick-knacks to complement any room.

Kallisti Gallery

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Lykourgos Logothetis 55, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 22730 62155
www.kallisti-gallery.com

Join Greek Art

Join Greek Art could technically be called a souvenir shop, as it sells Greek-themed T-shirts and knick-knacks, as well as jewellery and other accessories, but far from being tacky, everything on offer is classy, elegant and stylish, offering truly Samian gifts.

Join Greek Art

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59 Logotheti Likourgou, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 22730 61313
www.joingreekart.com

Rumiana's Art

Rumiana's Art is another top art and craft shop in Vathy, specialising in handmade ceramics and jewellery. Other items include carpets, textiles and selected clothes and accessories.

Rumiana's Art

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Rumiana's Art is another top art and craft shop in Vathy, specialising in handmade ceramics and jewellery. Other items include carpets, textiles and selected clothes and accessories.

17 Kapetan Stamati, Vathy, Samos
+30 6907 300 037
Daily 9:30am-10pm

Chrysotheque Design Jewellery

The one-of-a-kind handmade jewellery found at Chrysotheque is simplistic in form, but extravagant in colour. The precious stones have been gathered over many years from all around the world, including diamonds, black diamonds, ruby, sapphires and emeralds.

Chrysotheque Design Jewellery

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L Logotheti and Paralia, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 062513
www.chrysotheque.com
Daily 9am-11pm

Pink Woman Samos

Pink Woman is a very popular clothing retail chain that can be found at numerous locations across the country. The items found here are youthful and modern, making it especially frequented by young women.

Pink Woman Samos

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Sofouli 106, Vathy, Samos
+30 2273 080151
www.pinkwoman-fashion.com/
Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-3pm

- Essential Information

Samos International Airport

Samos International Airport (SMI), also known as Aristarchos Airport, lies about 5 kilometres away from the city of Pythagoreion. KTEL buses serve the airport about 4 times daily, and taxis are available to get to the major destinations on the island, primarily Pythagoreion and Vathy.

Samos International Airport

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Samos International Airport, Pythagoreio, Samos
+30 2273 061 219

Public Transport

The cities of Samos themselves are easy to explore by foot. Transportation between the main urban areas (Vathy, Pythagoreion, Kokkari, Karlovasi, etc.) is best done by bus, as the island boasts a good and effective bus network. Most destinations can be reached very inexpensively within about an hour.

Ferries are also available to several hard-to-reach beaches, as well as to other Aegean islands and to Kusadasi, in Turkey.

Public Transport

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Taxi

Taxis in Samos can be caught at taxi ranks in Vathy (by the National Bank of Greece) and in Pythagoreion (on Lykourgou Logotheti, by the waterfront).

Taxi in Samos: +30 22730 28404
Taxi in Kokkari: +30 22730 92585
Taxi in Pythagorio: +30 22730 31000
Taxi in Mrathokambos: +30 22730 31000