Samos Island Places to Visit, Beaches and Food & Drink Guide

honestly didn’t understand why the Greek islands have become so popular recently—until we went to Samos Island. Among the Greek islands, Samos has become one of the most prominent in recent years. With its must-see spots, delicious food, and stunning beach options, it offers a truly unique experience. We haven’t visited other Greek islands yet, but thanks to Samos, we’ve already started planning new island trips.

A little tip from the start: make sure to book your hotel, rent a car, and arrange necessary reservations before going to Samos. Especially at Vathy Port, car rental companies can significantly increase prices. We had to take one of the last available cars, so being prepared is crucial. I can’t forget Kokari and Pythagorio, but it’s wise to plan transportation in advance.

So, get ready. In this guide, you’ll find details on how to visit the Greek islands with a visa on arrival, Samos ferry options, must-see places, hotels, car rentals, restaurant recommendations, and beaches. Let’s get started.

Samos Island Visa on Arrival 2025: Ferry, Documents, and Experiences

I obtained the visa on arrival through Tilos Travel. Here’s how the process works:

Ferry Fee: One-way round trip per person: 59 €

Important Notes:

• Your ferry ticket should be for the first departure for going and the last departure for returning.
• Since visa on arrival is limited daily, book your ticket at least 2–3 weeks in advance and confirm availability with the Kuşadası/Seferihisar branch.
• Submit your documents to Tilos Travel Kuşadası 7–10 days before your travel date.
• Visa fee: 80 € for adults, 20 € for ages 0–17.
• Visa is single-entry and valid for a maximum of 7 days.

Required Documents:

• Passport copy (valid for at least 3 months + 7 days)
• 2 biometric photos
• ID card copy (color)
• Round-trip ferry ticket (open dates not accepted)
• Paid hotel reservation (in English, with all names listed)
• Travel health insurance (in English)
• Last 3 months’ bank statements (with sufficient balance)
• Completed and signed application form
• 80 € cash in an envelope

Our Experience:
We bought our ferry tickets from Kuşadası. Leaving Turkey was quite easy; arriving at the port 1 hour before check-in was enough.

Once we reached Samos, customs checked our documents and took fingerprints. Since the Tilos ferry first docks at Vathy Port, we were lucky, but the system is slow, so visas didn’t come out immediately. We were four people; three of us got our visas in about 2 hours, while one took longer, making the total process about 4 hours.

So even if you take the morning ferry, you might not set foot on the island until around 12:00–13:00. The return works similarly; you check in 1 hour earlier and reach Kuşadası in about 45 minutes after passport control.

Tip: If you plan to go, choose the morning ferry to make the most of your day.

Before Visiting Samos, Keep These in Mind!

Be prepared to wait at least 4 hours for the visa on arrival and plan accordingly.

Turn off international roaming on your phone to avoid extra charges.

You can use an E-SIM with a suitable package for internet.

Rent a car in advance to move around the island comfortably.

If going with a visa on arrival, get your ferry ticket for early hours.

Ensure all visa documents are complete.

Where to Stay in Samos? Hotels and Accommodation Recommendations

Where to Stay in Samos?

There aren’t many large hotels to stay in on Samos, but there are plenty of houses and guesthouses on the island. I think this suits the island’s friendly and relaxed atmosphere very well.

You can see the places we stayed and a few of our favorites below. You can choose the one that suits your budget and taste.

Villa Feronia Samos: This is a place we stayed and were extremely pleased with. Be sure to save it, the owner was also very attentive.

CLICK

Mirini Hotel: We wanted to go here first, but since there were no seats available, we went to the one upstairs. It has a very nice view.

CLICK HERE

Newly Built Villa: If you like affordable, home-like places and a great view.

CLICK

Odysseas Apartments: If you’re one of those people who wants to pay less and still have a nice stay, like me.

CLICK

Getting Around Samos: Ferry, Car Rental, Airport and Public Transport

List of Places to Visit in Samos Island

• 1Pythagorean Cord
• 2Inside Pythagorion Bazaar
• 3Pythagoras Statue
• 4Pythagorean Archaeological Museum
• 5Blue Street
• 6Panagia Spiliani Monastery
• 7Eupalinos Tunnel
• 8Moni Megalis Panagias
• 9Psili Ammos
• 10Kokkari Cord
• 11Kokkari Beach
• 12Archaeological Museum
• 13Samos Library
• 14Old Karlovasi
• 15New Karlovasi
• 16Old Tannery
• 17Church of the Holy Trinity
• 18Cave of Pythagoras
• 19Manolates
• 20Ampelos
• 21Vourliotes
• 22Platanos

List of Beaches in Samos Island

• 1Tsamadou Beach
• 2Lemonakia Beach
• 3Kokkari Beach
• 4Psili Ammos
• 5Potokaki Beach
• 6Votsalakia Beach
• 7Remataki Beach
• 8Kaladakia Beach

List of Restaurants on Samos Island

• 1Robinson Gyros
• 2Pergamonto Restaurant
• 3Luigi
• 4Hygge
• 5Two Spoons
• 6ART of Coffee
• 7ΧΑΛΛΛΑΡΑ ΑΠ’ ΤΟ ΒΟΡΡΑ
• 883100 Mediterranean Cuisine
• 9Café Kalimera
• 10Meltemi Restaurant
• 11Wave Cafe Bar
• 12Aiolos
• 13Tarsanas Restaurant
• 14Luigi Gelateria Kokkari
• 15Psili Ammos Restaurant

Samos Island Map

Click to download the Samos Island map!

Pythagorean Cord

This is one of the busiest and liveliest spots on Samos Island. Exploring it is really enjoyable; from restaurants to beaches, accommodations to shopping, everything is within reach. I definitely recommend setting aside a day here. Start with breakfast in the morning, enjoy the sea at a nice beach, recharge with lunch, explore the streets in the late afternoon, and finish the day with a pleasant dinner to complete a full day on Samos.

Inside the Pythagorion Market

Here, you’ll find a charming market decorated with colorful houses where you can also do some shopping. Taking your time and strolling around calmly to explore the spots makes it much more enjoyable.

Pythagoras Statue

One of Samos’ iconic landmarks, this statue was built in honor of the famous mathematician Pythagoras. Located by the harbor, it’s a popular spot for photos.

Pythagoras Archaeological Museum

The museum reflects the island’s rich history, displaying statues, ceramics, and artifacts from ancient times. A must-visit for history enthusiasts. It’s closed on Tuesdays, so don’t leave it for the last day like I did.

Blue Street

One of Samos’ most iconic spots. After exploring the market and streets of Pythagorion, it appears right before you. It offers beautiful views both during the day and at sunset, making it very popular for photos. Next to the cape where the statue stands, there’s also a castle with an impressive view. If you don’t want to climb the castle, you can still see the same view from the end of Blue Street.

Panagia Spiliani Monastery

One of the island’s most special religious sites, this monastery is built inside a cave. The interior has a mystical and calming feel. It’s close to Pythagorion, making it easy to reach, and is a must-visit for those wanting to experience the island’s culture and history.

Eupalinos Tunnel

Considered one of the engineering marvels of the ancient world, the Eupalinos Tunnel is a water channel built about 2,500 years ago. Carved through the mountain with incredible techniques for its time, this tunnel is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is impressive both historically and architecturally. A must-see in Samos.

Moni Megalis Panagias

One of the oldest monasteries on Samos. With its stone structure and surrounding nature, it’s a peaceful place to explore quietly.

Kokkari

For me, Kokari is by far the most beautiful spot on Samos! We didn’t stay here, but it’s the kind of place you wish you could. Streets leading to the sea, the little cafes, and the sunset were simply amazing. Definitely worth spending more time in Kokari.

Archaeological Museum

An important stop to see the history of Samos. There are artifacts from different periods, but be careful—it’s closed on Tuesdays.

Samos Library

Located in the center of the island, the library is a nice stop for those interested in books and local culture.

Karlovasi

Located in the north of Samos, Karlovasi stands out with its old and new sections. The old part is charming with its historical buildings, while the new part is lively with cafes and the waterfront.

Old Tannery

In Karlovasi, the Old Tannery is a small stop reflecting the island’s past. Its historic buildings and quiet streets make it perfect for a short stroll.

Pythagoras Cave

A small but interesting stop on Samos. Legends say that Pythagoras spent time here as a child.

Manolates

One of the cutest villages on Samos. Narrow stone streets and traditional houses make it ideal for a short walk.

Ampelos

A charming village with quiet streets and typical island houses—great for a short exploration.

Vourliotes

One of Samos’ small and peaceful villages. With its stone houses and natural surroundings, it’s perfect for a brief tour.

Platanos

A tranquil village with narrow streets and green surroundings. Ideal for a relaxing walk.

Samos Island Beaches: The Most Popular and Quiet Bays

Tsamadou Beach

One of the most popular beaches on the island, with clear and clean water. Parking is free, the beach is free, but sunbeds and umbrellas cost 5 € per person. The right side of the beach is a nudist area, so plan accordingly. When we visited, the sea was a bit wavy, so check the wind conditions. Facilities are available.

Lemonakia Beach

A rocky beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Great for photography as well. Sunbeds and umbrellas cost 15 € for two people. The water is really beautiful. Parking is free.

Kokkari Beach

The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants. You can enjoy the sea and also take a walk along the shore.

Psili Ammos

One of Samos’ quietest beaches. With its sandy and wide shore, it’s ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Potokaki Beach

Located on the eastern side of the island, Potokaki Beach is easy to reach and family-friendly. Its calm atmosphere is perfect for relaxing.

Votsalakia Beach

A small pebble beach, perfect for sunset photography.

Remataki Beach

Located right in Pythagorion. The beach has pebbles, and sunbeds and umbrellas are not free. It’s usually crowded because hotel guests also come here, so it’s best to arrive early. You pay only for what you consume. Parking is free.

Kaladakia Beach

A beach with both paid and free areas. It also features a natural pool. The water is beautiful, and there are showers and a small facility. We added it to our plan on the last day, but it turned out to be a real highlight.

What to Eat in Samos? Best Restaurants

Robinson Gyros

One of the best places to try the famous Greek dish, Gyros. Similar to a döner but with a distinct flavor. Price: €4.5. Highly recommended. Located right in the Pythagorion market area.

Pergamonto Restaurant

We wanted to come in the evening, but they operate by reservation, so we couldn’t get a table. When we arrived for breakfast, the options were limited but everything was very tasty. A small, cozy place with attentive staff.

Luigi

The ice creams are delicious and generously sized, €3 per scoop. The staff are friendly and polite, and prices are reasonable.

Hygge

Has a few outdoor tables, not very comfortable; chairs are a bit stiff. Ideal for a quick coffee. Prices are slightly above the island average, but their frappés and espressos are good. Overall, a quality spot.

Two Spoons

The filter coffee is very tasty. The waiter is charming and speaks Turkish. A sweet spot under the trees, neither too expensive nor cheap. Perfect for enjoying desserts.

ART of Coffee

The coffee is excellent and the staff are very polite. Ideal for a nice coffee break. Located on the street, with limited seating, right across the Pythagorion market.

ΧΑΛΛΛΑΡΑ ΑΠ’ ΤΟ ΒΟΡΡΑ

Located in the market, you can copy and use the location directly. The pastries are delicious; we tried the cream and cheese ones, and they were really good. They sell out early, around 1 PM the last pastries are gone. No seating available, suitable to eat on the nearby beach.

83100 Mediterranean Cuisine

After exiting to Pythagorion beach, turn right and it’s at the far end. Friendly staff and delicious dishes make it a fantastic taverna. Calamari, octopus, tzatziki, sardines, mixed seafood platter, shrimp, fried zucchini, mussels… all fresh and very tasty.

Café Kalimera

Located in Kokari, the products are delicious and the staff very friendly. Ideal for breakfast with a view or an evening coffee. Only downside: service is very slow; even a sandwich can take up to an hour.

Meltemi Restaurant

By the sea in Kokari. Reservation required but not online; phone calls often unanswered. Reviews suggest the place is overrated; service is not particularly friendly. Dishes like grilled octopus, saganaki shrimp, sea bass, calamari, cola, and beer cost 90€ total. Portions are large but presentation is basic.

Wave Cafe Bar

Breakfast was excellent, the view stunning, and the place very pleasant. Freshly squeezed orange juice and coffee included for 13€. Evening at the bar section is also enjoyable; one waitress was very cheerful and positive.

Aiolos

Small seaside spot in Samos with great meals. Codfish, seafood pasta, and Aiolos salad were very tasty. Prices reasonable (2–16€). Waitstaff a bit grumpy and some issues with bees, but the chefs’ dishes make up for it.

Tarsanas Restaurant

Quiet and peaceful seaside location. Live music is great, food delicious, but make sure to order items in sequence as hot starters arrive after mains. Owners are very friendly.

Luigi Gelateria Kokkari

The shop is filled with sweets and ice cream, calling “eat me!”. Single scoop 3€, very tasty. Conveniently located in a street.

Psili Ammos Restaurant

Amazing cliffside location with stunning views. Spotlessly clean—kitchen, tables, and toilets. Owner and chef very skilled. Fresh seafood highly recommended; octopus and calamari especially stand out.

Samos Island Frequently Asked Questions

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For other guides in Ayvalık, click here for Places to Visit in Ayvalık and Places to Visit in Cunda Island!

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