Samos Destination Guide

Overview of Samos Samos is the Aegean's easternmost island and is separated from the Turkish mainland by the narrow Strait of Mycale. The renowned ancient mathematician, Pythagoras, was born on the island in the 6th century BC. Samos also claims to be the birthplace of the goddess Hera, and the remains of a temple built in her honour can be found near the city of Pythagoreio. Since then, Samos has often passed between Greek and Turkish hands, before returning to Greece for good in 1913. Today, Visitors will find busy holiday resorts, beaches sprinkled with sunbeds and waterfronts lined with tavernas, bars and cafes. Samos town curls around a semi-circular bay, with pretty pastel-coloured buildings rising in tiers up a green hillside. Numerous other coastal towns and villages encircle the island. Further inland, travellers can visit delightful mountain villages, where friendly locals and picturesque alleyways offer an authentic taste of Greece. Samos is blessed with a dramatic, indented coastline, dotted with sand and shingle coves, while inland the slopes of the mountains and hills are covered in vines and verdant forests.

Key Facts

Language: Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken. Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of financial support to cover their stay in the country - entry may be refused if proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 50/day) cannot be shown. It is also recommended that non-EEA members hold return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for their return/onward journey. Visitors requiring a visa are also required to have medical insurance, covering them for their full period of stay in Greece. Note that the admission of visa-free nationals into Greece is considered upon their arrival in the country. Visitors wishing to extend their stay in the country must register at the Aliens Police Department or at the Security Police Department BEFORE (i) the expiry date of their visa, or (ii) the end of the period of visa-free stay. NOTE: It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are widespread. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts and 50Hz. A variety of plugs are in use, including the European-style two-pin and the round three-pin.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Samos Climate for Samos Though Samos receives plenty of sunshine during summer, temperatures remain comfortable with the help of cool northern winds called 'meltemia'. Rainfall is heavy, but most of it falls in winter. From mid-April until mid-October, the weather is almost completely dry. Summer is indisputably the peak tourist season, when beaches, restaurants and clubs are packed full. Late spring and early autumn are good times to visit for travellers who want to avoid crowds. The island is at its most lush in May, after the rainy season. Water temperatures are also warming up. September has many of summer's virtues, such as warm seas and balmy weather, though it's not as hot. Health Notes when travelling to Greece Travellers don't need to worry about specific health risks when visiting Greece. Most health problems come from too much sun and too much food or alcohol, though there's also the risk of encountering sea urchins, jellyfish and mosquitoes. Medical facilities in major cities are excellent but some of the smaller islands are a long way from a decent hospital. Larger towns and resorts have English-speaking private doctors and the highly professional local pharmacies can usually deal with any minor complaint. Travellers should take along any necessary prescription medication. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Safety Notes when travelling to Greece Though Greece is a safe destination, peak tourist season usually sees a spike in petty theft cases, especially in crowded areas. Visitors should conceal valuables or store them in hotel safes and watch out for pickpockets. Violent crime is rare but there have been incidents on some islands; visitors travelling alone should not accept lifts from strangers. Customs in Greece Though more traditional than the British in some ways, most Greeks are friendly and welcoming enough to seem intrusive to reserved British tourists. Greeks are also the heaviest smokers in Europe and will often ignore the smoking ban in public places. Swimwear is expected on the beach but tourists should dress properly in bars and restaurants. Duty Free in Greece Travellers visiting from inside the EU can bring in 800 cigarettes, or 200 cigars, or 400 cigarillos, or 1kg of tobacco, 10 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 20 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 90 litres of wine and 110 litres of beer - provided they are for personal consumption. Visitors arriving from outside the EU and are over the age of 17 will not pay duty for 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 100 cigarillos, or 250g of tobacco (if arriving by air), 1 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 2 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer. Doing Business in Greece Greeks prefer to dress formally in dark-coloured suits for men and stylish outfits for women. Punctuality is important to them though meetings may not start immediately. Visitors should offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting Greek men and women for the first time, and print business cards in both Greek and English. There is no ritual surrounding the exchange of business cards. As Greeks like getting to know their colleagues before conducting any serious business, it's unlikely a deal will take shape at the first meeting. The local culture follows a hierarchical structure and visitors should show respect in the same way. Gift giving is common in social settings but not necessarily in business. Communication in Greece The international access code for Greece is +30 and the outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The city code for Athens is 21; free wifi is available at cafes, hotels, restaurants and similar establishments throughout Greece. Purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option to paying high international roaming costs.

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Tipping in Greece A service charge is automatically added to most restaurant bills and an additional tip it not expected -- though always welcome. Rounding up the bill is sufficient for drinks at cafes; taxis, porters and cloakroom attendants will expect a tip. Passport/Visa Note The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of financial support to cover their stay in the country - entry may be refused if proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 50/day) cannot be shown. It is also recommended that non-EEA members hold return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for their return/onward journey. Visitors requiring a visa are also required to have medical insurance, covering them for their full period of stay in Greece. Note that the admission of visa-free nationals into Greece is considered upon their arrival in the country. Visitors wishing to extend their stay in the country must register at the Aliens Police Department or at the Security Police Department BEFORE (i) the expiry date of their visa, or (ii) the end of the period of visa-free stay. NOTE: It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Getting around in Samos Pythagorio, Karlosvassi and Vathy are the island's three major ferry ports. Most ferry connections to Samos are via Turkey. Local KTEL buses provide transport for visitors, stopping at most villages and cities on the island. Taxis are also available. Car and moped rental offices are in Samos town. Many of the large hotels also arrange motorcycle and car rentals for guests. On a cautionary note, Samos' steep, winding roads can be stressful and accident rates are quite high. The island is renowned for its natural beauty and there are many lovely walking trails to enjoy.

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Attractions in Samos Gorgeous coasts and sublime natural scenery define Samos Island. White-pebbled Mykali, secluded Megalo Seitani, and nudist Tsamadou are among its best beaches. Potami is another favourite location, where beach lovers can enjoy forests and waterfalls near the ocean. Kids usually enjoy Psili Ammos Beach's warm, shallow waters. Beyond its glorious beaches, Samos is home to the Temple of Hera, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's certainly a must-see. Visitors can also explore Pythagoras Cave for an historical and philosophical perspective on the island. The Ancient Theatre of Pythagorio offers cultural insights and perhaps a show, while the castle of Lykourgos Logothetis is a magnificent example of military architecture. Situated southwest of Pythagorio Port, it played a vital role in the Greek Revolution against Turkish rule.

Samos Beaches The coast of Samos has many beautiful beaches to enjoy as it is a large, lush island. There are at least 20 beaches which tourists and locals recommend. Mykali beach, south of Samos town, is covered in white pebbles and lapped by emerald waters and is one of the most popular beaches on the island. On the mountainous northwest coast of Samos, visitors will find the secluded Megalo Seitani beach which can only be reached on foot and richly rewards those who make the extra effort. There are a few other beaches on the island which are inaccessible to cars and these tend to be the most private and secluded. The Vlendza beach, just outside the town of Avlakia, has good amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as a small tavern. Tsamadou beach lies just outside of Kokkari Town and is the only official nudist beach on the island. The best beach on Samos for children is Psili Ammos beach as kids love to play in its warm, shallow waters and build sand castles on the shore. It is a very safe beach with calm waters. This long sandy strip also attracts migrant flamingos each year in December and the pink flocks are a delightful sight. There are also a couple of taverns nearby to enjoy. Psili Ammos beach is 35 miles (56km) southwest of Vathy.

Temple of Hera The largest Greek temple ever built, the Temple of Hera was one of the essential sanctuaries of ancient Greece, and is now a great sightseeing attraction. It was built near the mouth of the Imvrasos river for worship of the goddess who, according to myth, was born and lived there. Only half of one of its 115 columns stands today, but the bases of the columns and other temple foundations are still visible so it is possible to imagine what the giant temple looked like. The Temple of Hera was constructed over a long period of time - or rather, it was added to, renovated or completely rebuilt a number of times over the centuries when it was destroyed by earthquakes or other means. The oldest building phase identified by archaeologists is the 8th century BC. The very large temple, the ruins of which we can see today, was known as the 'Polycrates Temple'. One of the giant statues from this site can still be seen in the Samos Archaeological Museum, which is a good complement to a trip to the temple ruins as it provides context and information. Unlike many other archaeological sites in Greece, however, there is some information given at the temple and visitors receive a free guide leaflet upon entry. This temple is not to be confused with the Temple of Hera at Olympus where the Olympic Flame is lit for each Olympic Games. Address: Four miles (7km) southwest of Pythagorio Website: http://www.samosguide.com/listingview.php?listingID=30

Pythagoras Cave One of the great attractions on Samos is the cave where Pythagoras lived and worked as a philosopher, mathematician, astrologer, doctor and musician. Very little is actually known for sure about Pythagoras but legend has it that he used the caves as a refuge from the tyranny of Polycrates. We know his teachings were mystical as well as mathematical as he was the founder of an esoteric religious movement known as Pythagoreanism. Although some tenets of this religious and philosophical movement are known, for the most part it too is somewhat shrouded in secrecy. Most of the caves are now open to the public. The site is made up of two caves and two chapels, with 'holy water' dripping from their stalactites, and was used for prayer and teaching as well as shelter. The cave is located on Mount Kerkis, an extinct volcano that forms the second-highest peak in the East Aegean, and although it is located near the base the climb may still be a bit difficult for some. The views from the cave are beautiful and there are some great photo opportunities. It is advisable to bring a bottle of water and sensible shoes for the rather steep walk.

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Address: Mt Kerkes, two miles (3km) from Kambos Marathokambou Website: http://www.agreekadventure.com/pythagoras-caves-samos/

Ancient Theatre of Pythagorion The Ancient Theatre of Pythagorion sits just below Panagia Spiliani monastery's ruins. Its stage and some seats are all that remains. Still, these remnants hint at how grand the venue must have been in its time. Today, performers use the site for plays, as well as concerts and modern recitals. Historians and culture buffs should check the calendar for events. Otherwise, Pythagorion is the perfect Mediterranean escape. A pretty harbour, gorgeous beaches, and the Mediterranean's oldest manmade port are among the town's highlights. Attractions in and around the port include the statue of Pythagoras, the Castle of Lykourgos, the Church of Metamorphosis, the Ephpalinos Tunnel and Roman Baths. Visitors who wish to explore a bit further can enjoy sailing excursions to other cities, villages, beaches and ancient sites. The town also has a vibrant nightlife.

Address: Samos Website: http://www.samosguide.com/listingview.php?listingID=34

Potami Waterfalls Children love to visit these beautiful waterfalls on the northeast coast of Samos Island, although it is certainly not necessary to have children along to enjoy this scenic island attraction. Visitors should follow the road west from Karlovassi that leads towards the harbour, which will bring them to the pristine Potami Beach; just over a mile (2km) further visitors will reach a forest and lake, beyond which there is a series of waterfalls. The rambling walk along the river soon becomes an adventure through the forest leading to the waterfall. Swimming in the small lake is a great way for kids to cool off and there are lovely spots for the folks to sit and relax, or perhaps enjoy a picnic lunch. There are rock valleys and several lovely little pools and waterfalls to explore. There are some beautiful old trees, interesting rock formations and small bridges and visitors may even be lucky enough to spot some turtles or other animals. For the snap happy, this enchanting little forest provides many photo opportunities as well as fun for the whole family. There is no entry fee; visitors simply ramble into the forest from the beach and enjoy the waterfalls. Address: Two miles (3km) from Karlovassi Website: http://www.agreekadventure.com/samos-greece-trekking-potami-waterfalls/

Lykourgos Castle The castle of Lykourgos Logothetis is a magnificent example of defensive architecture. It is situated to the southwest of the port of Pythagorio, and was built at the beginning of the 19th century, playing a vital role in the Greek Revolution against Turkish rule. The castle was built, with the help of many locals, out of the remains of ancient buildings and monuments, to help repel the invaders and it became the headquarters of the revolutionary movement in Samos and the main asset in their defence against the Ottoman navy. It is named after the local leader of the revolution. There is a temple next door to the castle which commemorates the victory of 6 August 1824 when Samos successfully resisted an attack by the Turks - the anniversary is still celebrated at the church annually. Lykourgos has wonderful views and many interesting architectural features. The hill on which the castle is located may be the oldest acropolis in Samos as a number of prehistoric artefacts have been discovered there, making the whole area captivating and rather mysterious. Kids will probably enjoy exploring the castle as much as adults so it makes a good excursion for the whole family. Address: Southwest of Pythagorio Website: http://www.greeka.com/eastern_aegean/samos/samos-excursions/samos-logothetis-castle.htm

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Airports in Samos Samos Airport (SMI) Samos Aristarchos International Airport www.smi-airport.gr/en Location: Samos The airport is two miles (3km) west of Pythagorio. Time: GMT +2 Contacts: +30 22730 87800 Getting to the city: There is a public bus stop in front of the terminal building. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver. Car rental: Car hire companies at Samos Airport include Hertz, Europcar, Budget, Avis and Alamo. Airport Taxis: Radio Taxi Samos operates from the airport. The fare to Vathy is approximately €25. Facilities: The terminal contains two restaurants, duty-free shopping, baby-changing facilities, a Greek tourism office, and tourist information services. Parking: There are parking facilities adjacent to the terminal.

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Currency The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are widespread.

Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro 1.12 BMD 1.12 USD 0.77 GBP 121.65 JPY 1.46 CAD 1.10 CHF Bermudan Dollar U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc 1.54 AUD 28.05 UAH 377.26 KZT 1,682.21 LBP 0.80 LYD 7.66 BOB Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 120.52 NPR 0.43 OMR 4.07 QAR 1.54 SGD 9.26 SEK 7.41 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 11.15 VEF 51.20 DOP 7.51 HRK 20.82 MXN 654.97 XOF 3.54 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 1.12 BSD 2.36 FJD 25.29 HNL 123.47 DZD 1,330.84 MMK 12.50 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 3.76 PEN 774.75 CLP 534.10 AMD 27.00 CZK 22.32 MDL 138.84 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 3,282.94 UZS 4.31 ILS 0.79 JOD 0.34 KWD 35.02 UYU 39.68 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 31.85 NIO 9.32 NOK 4.38 PLN 4.19 SAR 163.12 LKR 39.79 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 4.10 AED 4.02 BRL 4.52 RON 8.68 HKD 656.46 XAF 25,106.99 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 15.58 ARS 3.01 XCD 8.75 GTQ 10.92 MAD 0.42 BHD 1.12 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 1.67 AZN 3,482.98 COP 76.30 KGS 312.53 HUF 8.79 TJS 15,285.70 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 9.92 EGP 1,330.60 KRW 6,333.44 PYG 4.65 MYR 601.85 CRC 1.64 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 117.01 PKR 74.62 RUB 17.43 ZAR 2.37 TND 2.23 BBD 1.96 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 3.30 TRY 52.08 PHP 36.44 TWD 219.51 NGN 119.70 XPF 4.37 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 139.55 JMD 2.01 ANG 1.54 BND 123.51 RSD 7.35 CNY 22,229.06 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 7.43 DKK 3.84 TMT 75.14 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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