Let’s skip Mykonos and Santorini. Let me tell you about an island that’s calmer, less crowded, and still feels authentic. Not many people know about it, not even me, until I got a job offer in the summer of 2023 from a travel agency.
If you’ve read my story about how I ended up in Abu Dhabi as a flight attendant, you’ll know that before that I was living and working in Italy. While I was “working on my CV” to increase my chances of getting my dream job in the skies, I realized I needed more customer service and sales experience. That’s how I applied for a job with a well-known travel agency as a travel guide.
A week later, I was on a plane to Samos. At first, I wasn’t impressed. I remember googling the island and thinking: where am I going? Greece sounded amazing, but Samos wasn’t a name I had ever heard before.
🍇 Fun Facts
The island is the birthplace of Pythagoras, the famous mathematician.
Samos is known for its sweet Muscat wine, one of Greece’s most celebrated exports.
It’s one of the greenest Greek islands, covered in olive groves and pine forests.
You can actually see Turkey from Samos — and even take a short ferry ride there!
Get Your Vocabulary Right
Good morning – Kaliméra (kah-lee-MEH-rah)
Good evening – Kalispéra (kah-lee-SPARE-ah)
Good night – Kaliníhta (kah-lee-NEE-hta)
Thank you – Efharistó (eff-hah-ree-STOH)
One coffee please – Énan kafé parakaló (EH-nan kah-FEH para-kah-LOH)
🏛️ Short History
Samos has always been a bit special. Thousands of years ago, it was a wealthy and powerful island-state thanks to trade and wine. It’s not only the birthplace of Pythagoras but also home to Hera’s sanctuary — she was the queen of the gods in Greek mythology. The ruins of the Heraion of Samos are still there and are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
🚗 Transportation Tips
My best advice: rent a car.
I used to host weekly welcome meetings for our guests and always told them the same thing, Samos is best discovered on four wheels. Scooters may look fun, but skip them. I sadly saw too many accidents with visitors who weren’t used to the local driving culture. Cars give you the freedom to explore safely.
Getting Around the Island
Samos isn’t huge, but it’s bigger than you might think at first glance. To drive around the whole island takes about 3–4 hours without stops. Of course, you’ll want to stop, because every corner has a beach, a little taverna, or a mountain view that’s worth pulling over for.
Some of the most famous villages and towns you shouldn’t miss:
- Pythagorio – named after Pythagoras, this harbor town is full of charm, history, and colorful boats.
- Kokkari – A postcard-perfect fishing village with a lively but still relaxed vibe.
- Karlovasi – bigger and less touristy, with beautiful old mansions and a more local feel.
- Vathy (Samos Town) – the capital, with shops, museums, and a mix of old and new Greece.
🌞 Best Time to Visit
The season runs from May to October, but if you want warm weather without the crowds, aim for June or September. July and August can get hot (and busier), but Samos still feels calmer compared to Mykonos or Santorini.
🧳 Island Hopping
If you’re planning a trip to Greece, consider island hopping. Samos has great ferry connections to Ikaria, Patmos, and even Kos. It’s the perfect way to blend popular spots with hidden gems.
Looking back, Samos was never part of my “dream destinations” list, but it became one of the most memorable summers of my life. It taught me that sometimes the places you know the least about end up surprising you the most.
So, if you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic Greek escape, Samos is definitely worth visiting!
Safe travels 💛
