Samothrace Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and more in Samothrace. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary, learn about the local culture, customs, and transportation options to help you enjoy your stay.


Samothrace Island is a remote island in the North Aegean region of Greece, and is considered one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Samothrace offers breathtaking landscapes of mountains, waterfalls, ancient ruins, and beaches. The island’s natural beauty has been attracting visitors for centuries, and today it is known for its natural wonders, stunning views, and quaint villages, which offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Samothrace

Samothrace island, also known as Samothraki, is situated between the Peloponnese peninsula and the coast of Asia Minor. It is part of the North Aegean Islands and is a destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs. Samothrace is rich in history and culture, with excavated ancient sites and small museums throughout the island. Visitors to Samothrace can enjoy a slower pace of life while also indulging in the beauty of nature.

List of Places to Visit in Samothrace

There’s no shortage of things to do in Samothrace, Greece. Below are some of the top attractions for visitors to this beautiful island.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sanctuary of the Great Gods: The most significant ancient site on the island, this sanctuary was built around 500 BC and was a place of worship for the gods and goddesses of the underworld. It housed the famous Samothrace Victory Winged statue, displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.
  • Folklore Museum of Samothrace: The museum houses exhibits of traditional garments, agricultural tools, and furniture, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of Samothracians in the past.
  • Kastro: This Byzantine castle is situated high above Paleopolis and offers panoramic views of the island and the Aegean sea.

Natural Attractions of Samothrace: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fonias Waterfall: With its 35 meters height, Fonias is the largest waterfall in the Aegean Sea. It is located in the middle of lush vegetation, treasured for its beauty and considered one of the best waterfalls in Greece.
  • Mount Saos: This majestic mountain reaches an altitude of 1,611 meters. It is an ideal destination for those who love hiking trails and nature activities. Along the way, you can see various flora and fauna species, including the protected Sabine firs.
  • Therma Beach: A beautiful pebble beach located on the northern part of the island, known for its hot spring waters that offer natural therapy treatment to visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Samothrace

For many tourists, a hike or bike through the Samothrace mountains is a must-do attraction. The island offers visitors a variety of trails that will take you deep into the mountains or along the coastline. The trails offer spectacular views of the island’s natural beauty, making it one of the best ways to appreciate the island. Some of the best trails to hike or bike in Samothrace include:

  • Mount Saos Trail: This hiking trail follows the course of the river that runs down from Mount Saos, through the beautiful forest of Sabine firs, and ends in the village of Kamariotissa.
  • Fonias Gorge Trail: This trail is ideal for nature enthusiasts who enjoy a little thrill. It leads hikers through the scenic Fonias Gorge and ends at the beautiful Fonias Waterfall.
  • Vatos Trail: This circular trail leads hikers to the abandoned village of Vatos, which is located on the mountainside, offering spectacular views of both the coastline and the mainland.

Best Things to Do in Samothrace: Activities and Tours

  • Boat tour around the island: Take a boat tour of the island to explore secluded beaches, coves, and bays that are difficult to reach on foot. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters while soaking up the sun.
  • Samothrace Scuba Diving: Discover the underwater beauty of Samothrace’s rocky coast with the help of experienced PADI certified instructors.
  • Discover local crafts: Visit traditional workshops in Chora to see artisans practicing centuries-old crafts, including weaving, pottery, and woodworking. This is an opportunity to take home unique souvenirs made using traditional techniques.

Week-Long Itinerary for Samothrace

A week-long itinerary would allow you to explore the best of what Samothrace has to offer. This itinerary can be tailored to personal preferences based on how long each activity takes.

Day Activities
1 Arrive, settle in, and spend the day exploring the Chora town center and the Castle
2 Visit the Sanctuary of the Great Gods in the morning, and then head to Kipos Beach to relax in the sun
3 Hike on Mount Saos Trail, alone or with a guide, and visit Therma Beach in the evening for its famed hot springs
4 Explore the western coast’s hidden gems, including the beaches of Kipos, Pahia Ammos, and Valtos while relaxing in the sun
5 Discover the waterfalls of Samothrace, and hike the Fonias Gorge Trail, ending in the beautiful Fonias Waterfall
6 Visit the Folklore Museum and other island attractions in the morning, then take a boat tour to explore the island’s coastline in the afternoon
7 Spend the day relaxing at your preferred beach, end the day with a mouth-watering dinner of local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Samothrace

Must-Try Dishes

The Samothracian cuisine is a blend of Greek and Turkish flavors, with a focus on local and organic ingredients. Here are some of our top picks of must-try dishes:

  • Kontosouvli: This is a popular dish on the island, consisting of slow-roasted pork meat seasoned with salt and pepper.
  • Spetzofai: A traditional spicy Casserole that consists of sausages with peppers and potatoes.
  • Kopanisti: A traditional cheese spread that is served as a meze, made with hot peppers and feta cheese.

Local Beverages

Samothrace is home to aromatic wines, tasty liqueurs, and refreshing drinks that offer an excellent experience for foodies. Here are two beverages that are worth trying:

  • Toplou Organic Wines: This is wine made with grapes that are cultivated on the slopes of Mount Saos. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery.
  • Raki: This is a famous liqueur that is often consumed as an after-dinner drink. It is made from distilled grapes, and locals take pride in their perfect recipe.

Where to Stay in Samothrace: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Several types of accommodations options are available on Samothrace, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Chora, Paleopoli, and Therma are the most popular places to stay. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Archodissa Boutique Hotel: This hotel overlooks the sea and is located in a tranquil park-like setting in Kamariotissa. Guests can enjoy the beautiful mountain views from the pool.
  • The Lighthouse: This guesthouse is located in Paleopoli, offering visitors unobstructed views of the sea and hills. The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, and the staff is friendly.
  • Chora Pension: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of Chora is close to all major attractions, cafes, and taverns.

What to Buy in Samothrace: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

A trip to Samothrace is incomplete without taking home some souvenirs as memories of your trip. Here are some ideas:

  • Handmade jewelry: Choose from a variety of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, showcasing traditional techniques of Samothrace.
  • Wine: Toplou Winery produces high-quality wine, which you can take home for yourself or as a gift.
  • Herbs and spices: Samothrace is known for its abundant herbs and spices, including thyme, oregano, and sage, which you can purchase from local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Samothrace

Nostalgia is a significant part of Samothrace’s culture, with the locals taking pride in their traditions, customs, and history. Visitors to the island should respect local customs and follow essential cultural protocols. It is customary to greet locals with a simple “Yassou” followed by the person’s name. When indoors, it is customary to remove shoes before entering houses and places of worship. Visitors are also expected to dress modestly while visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Samothrace

The best season to visit Samothrace Island is from May to October when the temperatures are ideal, making it an excellent time for hiking and exploring. During the peak season in July and August, it can sometimes be overcrowded, so travelers who want to avoid crowds should visit during the shoulder seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Samothrace

Do:

  • Respect local customs, traditions, and properties.
  • Carry cash as many eateries and shops do not accept credit cards.
  • Come with an open mind and an eagerness to learn about and explore the island’s unique culture and scenery.

Don’t:

  • Wear immodest clothing while visiting religious sites or conservative areas.
  • Take pictures of locals without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Samothrace

Samothrace is a safe destination with low cases of crime. However, visitors should be cautious and aware of pickpockets and scams in tourist areas and beaches.

Health in Samothrace

While Samothrace has medical facilities, visitors are advised to carry travel insurance that includes medical coverage. In case of a health emergency, MedCareOne website provides information to access quality health care.

Getting to Samothrace: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Samothrace

The nearest airport to Samothrace is Kavala International Airport “Alexander the Great,” located on the mainland. From there, visitors have the option of taking a regional bus or taxi to the port of Keramoti, where they can take the ferry to Samothrace.

Bus Stations Near Samothrace

Regional buses connect several Greek cities to Alexandroupolis and Thessaloniki. From there, a regional bus or a taxi can be arranged to reach the port town of Keramoti, where you can take the ferry to Samothrace.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Samothrace is served by ferries departing from the mainland port of Alexandroupolis and the island of Lemnos.

How to Get Around in Samothrace

Rental cars and scooters are available, but the lack of driving infrastructure and the narrow roads make cycling a better option. Alternatively, bike rentals are available in the towns of Kamariotissa and Chora. It is also possible to use the island buses, which connect all of the major towns.

Where to Go Next from Samothrace: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alexandroupolis: This city is the largest on the Greek mainland closest to Samothrace. It’s an excellent destination for those who like to explore the urban environment.
  • Lemnos: Lemnos is the closest inhabited island to Samothrace and can be reached by ferry. It is famous for its sandy beaches, delicious seafood, and traditional festivals.

Conclusion

Samothrace is one of the most beautiful and remote islands in Greece, offering visitors a unique destination to explore. With natural wonders and culturally significant sites, Samothrace is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Greek culture and way of life while immersing themselves in nature. From its ancient history to its secluded beaches and adventurous hikes, Samothrace is a must-visit destination that promises to leave visitors spellbound.

Kamariotissa, the main port of Samothrace Kamariotissa, the main port of Samothrace Sailing boats in the harbour of Kamariotissa Sailing boats in the harbour of Kamariotissa Chora/Samothraki Chora/Samothraki Sanctury of the Great Gods Sanctury of the Great Gods Fonias River & tower Fonias River & tower Samothrace South Coast Samothrace South Coast