MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Samos

Where to Stay in Samos

Samos Northeastern Aegean Islands, Greece Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Popular Choices

  • Hotels

    From family-run to larger complexes with extensive amenities.

  • Apartments/Studios

    Very popular, including kitchenettes for self-catering.

  • Guesthouses (Domatia)

    Family-run, a personal and authentic experience.

  • Villas

    Private rentals with pools, offering privacy and luxury.

Other Options

  • B&Bs

    Many guesthouses include breakfast with your stay.

  • Camping

    Limited official campsites. Free camping is illegal in Greece.

  • Variety

    Samos provides a wide spectrum of lodging choices.

  • Budget to Luxury

    From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

Neighborhood Guide

Samos features several distinct areas, each with its own character and advantages for visitors.

Samos Town Vathy

Highlights
  • Island's capital and main port.
  • Lively harbor and promenade.
  • Good base for exploration.
  • Excellent dining.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy near the port.
  • No major beach directly in town.
  • Archaeological sites are a short drive.
  • Urban precautions apply.

Pythagoreio

Highlights
  • Charming, historic harbor town.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Ancient ruins, beautiful waterfront.
  • Close to airport, Heraion, Tunnel of Eupalinos.
Considerations
  • Can be crowded during peak season.
  • Nearby beaches are smaller.
  • Very safe generally.
  • Good connections for day trips to Turkey.

Kokkari

Highlights
  • Picturesque fishing village.
  • Popular tourist resort.
  • Excellent for windsurfing.
  • Good access to beaches like Lemonakia.
Considerations
  • Can be crowded in peak season.
  • Pebble beaches might not suit all.
  • Very safe.
  • Good bus connections to Samos Town.

More Neighborhoods

Karlovasi

Second largest town, authentic feel, university, old tanneries. Less touristy, access to hiking.

Votsalakia (Ormos Marathokampos)

Long, relaxed coastal area. Appeals to families. Range of tavernas. Can feel spread out.

Booking Strategies

Timely booking secures your preferred accommodation and rates.

When to Book

  • High Season (July-August): Book 3 to 6 months ahead for popular areas.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Sep-Oct): Book 1 to 2 months ahead for selection.
  • Low Season (Nov-April): More flexibility, good last-minute deals possible.
  • Prices can double or triple from low to high season.

Booking Considerations

  • Use reputable platforms like Booking.com or Agoda.
  • Direct booking with local hotels may offer better rates.
  • Review deposit and cancellation policies carefully.
  • Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Additional Resources

More Booking Platforms
Flexibility
  • Many properties allow free cancellation up to a specific date.
  • This provides flexibility if travel plans change.
  • Always confirm terms before final booking.
  • Prices vary significantly by season.

Price Fluctuations

High Season Impact

Expect accommodation prices to peak during July and August.

Shoulder Season Value

May, June, September, and October often present a balance of good weather and moderate prices.

Low Season Deals

From November to April, you might discover competitive rates, though fewer tourist services operate.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for different budget levels and traveler types.

Budget & Mid-Range

Samos City Hotel Vathy

Central location in Samos Town. Clean, basic rooms.

  • Good value.
  • Easy access to capital's exploration.
  • Central hub for transport.
  • Urban setting.
Ino Village Hotel Kalami, near Vathy

Good value with a pleasant setting, often with a pool.

  • Quiet atmosphere, short distance from town.
  • Comfortable stay.
  • Popular choice.
  • Relaxed setting.

Mid-Range Continued

Aphrodite Garden Studios Kokkari

Well-maintained studios with good amenities near the beach.

  • Comfortable stay in a lively village.
  • Close to water sports.
  • Relaxed environment.
  • Popular for families.
Samos Amory Boutique Hotel Pythagoreio

Modern and stylish hotel in historic Pythagoreio.

  • Central base for town exploration.
  • Comfortable and elegant.
  • UNESCO World Heritage proximity.
  • Ideal for couples.

Luxury Options

  • Casa Cook Samos (Potokaki Beach)

    Adults-only resort with minimalist design, beachfront.

  • Proteas Blu Resort (Gagou Beach, near Vathy)

    Adults-friendly, luxurious, private beach access.

  • Doryssa Seaside Resort (Pythagoreio)

    Large resort with excellent facilities, direct beach access.

  • Samos Sun Hotel (Pythagoreio)

    Family-run, renowned service, often includes breakfast.

Traveler Specifics

  • Family-friendly options

    Doryssa Seaside Resort, Samos Sun Hotel, many apartment or villa rentals. Seek properties with pools, children’s activities, or kitchen facilities.

  • Solo traveler suggestions

    Samos City Hotel (Vathy) for central access. Guesthouse in Pythagoreio for charming, welcoming atmosphere.

  • Cultural/Historical significance

    Staying in Pythagoreio, an UNESCO site, surrounds you with history. Guesthouses in Manolates or Vourliotes offer authentic village life.

  • Traditional Stays

    Experience local architecture and village life in mountain retreats.

Explore Diverse Accommodations

Self-Catering Options

Apartments and villas are ideal for those desiring independence and kitchen facilities.

  • Greater space and privacy.
  • Good for families or groups.
  • Flexibility with meal times.
  • Opportunity to use local market produce.
Boutique and Charm

Samos offers boutique hotels with traditional charm and modern design.

  • Personalized service.
  • Unique aesthetic.
  • Often located in historic areas.
  • Distinct character.

Consider Your Travel Style

Nightlife

Samos Town or Pythagoreio provide the most active evening scenes.

Quiet Retreats

Mountain villages or quieter coastal areas offer tranquility.

Beach Access

Kokkari or Votsalakia are ideal for beach-focused holidays.