Samos’ capital is built around a pretty horseshoe bay, divided into a new town by the harbour and an old town behind it on the hill. Samos Town is a heaven for culture vultures and history buffs; the town is bursting with ancient ruins and museums. However there’s also a great nightlife, busy restaurants, and beautiful surrounding countryside to explore, so there’s something for everyone on a Samos Town holiday!
Culture
Ano Vathi is Samos’ old town, built in the hills away from the shore to protect against pirate attacks. The new town has now filled the gap between Ano Vathi and the sea, and the old town is a lovely place to come for scenic views of the new town and harbour below. Ano Vathi is a window into bygone days, with Venetian-style houses, craft shops and winding streets too narrow for traffic.
Beaches
Samos Town’s one beach is in easy distance for people staying in the town, just a 5-minute walk from the harbour. However like many city beaches it’s fairly small and fills up quickly, so many visitors quickly discover sandy Psili Ammos on the south-east coast. The sand is soft and fine, and the shallow water makes it great for families. This beach is 25 minutes away, but there’s a bus service in summer.
Things to Do
Samos Town has plenty to keep shopaholics happy, with boutique shops and markets offering everything from fine jewellery to cheap and cheerful souvenirs! One of Samos’ most popular landmarks is the Heraion of Samos, a temple for the goddess Hera of which only a single stone column remains. Those wanting to venture further can take day trips to Turkey to visit Kusadasi or the ancient city of Ephesus.
