Municipality of East Samos

The administrative, cultural and transport hub of the island

📍 Geographical & Administrative Identity

The Municipality of East Samos is one of the two municipalities of the island, established in 2019 through the “Kleisthenis I” reform, by splitting the former unified Municipality of Samos.

📌 Region: North Aegean
📌 Regional Unit: Samos
📌 Capital: Samos Town (Vathy)
📌 Area: 292.85 km²
📌 Population: 16,437 (2021 census)

🏙️ Main Areas

The municipality includes significant settlements and communities such as:

Samos Town (Vathy) – Administrative and commercial capital
Pythagoreio – Archaeological treasure and tourist hotspot
Kokkari – Seaside resort
Chora, Mytilinioi, Vourliotes, Manolates, Pandrosos, Pagondas etc.

✈️ Transport & Infrastructure

📦 Port of Samos (Vathy)
Main commercial and passenger port of the island
Connected by ferry to Piraeus, Ikaria, Chios, Lesvos, and Turkey (Kuşadası)
Includes customs office, coast guard station and cruise ship area

🛬 Samos Airport “Aristarchos of Samos”
Located 4 km west of Pythagoreio
International airport with regular flights to Athens, Thessaloniki and seasonal flights to abroad (Germany, Netherlands, UK)
Includes control tower, café, car rental services

🚌 Local Transport
Municipal transport and intercity buses (KTEL) connecting Vathy with most villages
Private taxis, tourist coaches and mini buses
Many roads are mountainous and winding, especially towards Karvounis, Vourliotes, etc.

🚢 Marinas – Fishing shelters
Small marina in Pythagoreio for sailing boats
Fishing shelter in Samos Town
Anchorages in seaside villages

🏥 Services & Facilities
General Hospital of Samos (Vathy)
Regional administration building
Police, Fire Department, Public Power Corporation (DEI), OTE
Public services (Tax Office, Social Insurance, Citizens’ Service Centre, Courts)
Schools of all levels, music and technical high schools

🧭 Tourism & Culture
Archaeological sites: Heraion, Eupalinian aqueduct, Polycrates’ walls, ancient theatre of Pythagoreio
Cultural centers & museums: Archaeological Museum of Samos, Folklore Museum of Pythagoreio
Events: Pythagoreia, local festivals, cultural events

🌊 Natural Environment
Beaches: Glyko Nero, Livadaki, Kokkari, Potokaki, Psili Ammos
Karvounis mountain range: Forests, trails, springs
Traditional villages with panoramic views

In more detail

The Municipality of East Samos, established in 2019, covers the eastern part of the island of Samos and includes the capital, Vathy, as well as many picturesque villages and coastal settlements. This area combines rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, making it one of the most attractive destinations in the Aegean.

History:
Samos has a long and rich history dating back to antiquity. It was known for its wealth, strong naval power, and as the birthplace of notable figures such as the mathematician Pythagoras, the philosopher Epicurus, and the astronomer Aristarchus. In ancient times, Samos was one of the most important commercial and cultural centers in the Aegean.

Geography:
Eastern Samos is characterized by lush landscapes, mountainous terrain, and extensive coastlines with beautiful beaches. The region offers a variety of sceneries, from fertile plains to wooded areas and crystal-clear waters.

Attractions:

• Archaeological Museum of Vathy:
  Hosts artifacts from various periods of the island’s history, including the famous Kouros of Samos.

• Eupalinos Tunnel:
  An ancient aqueduct 1,036 meters long, considered a marvel of ancient engineering.

• Heraion:
  The archaeological site with the ruins of the Temple of Hera, one of the largest temples of antiquity.

Beaches:

• Kokkari:
  Known for its beautiful beaches and ideal windsurfing spots.

• Tsamadou:
  One of the most popular beaches, with clear waters and pebbles.

• Psili Ammos:
  Famous for its fine sand and shallow waters, ideal for families.

Settlements:

• Vathy:
  The island’s capital combines old and new, with neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and a lively port.

• Pythagoreio:
  A picturesque port with a rich history, built over the ruins of the ancient city of Samos.

• Manolates:
  A mountain village known for its traditional architecture and tavernas serving local cuisine.

Gastronomy:
Eastern Samos offers a rich gastronomic tradition. The island is famous for its sweet Muscat wine, which has received international awards. The local cuisine includes dishes like stuffed vine leaves, grilled octopus, Samian "boureki", and a variety of honey- and almond-based desserts.

Activities:

• Hiking:
  The region offers many trails through forests, gorges, and traditional villages, providing unique experiences for nature lovers.

• Water sports:
  The beaches of Kokkari and Pythagoreio are ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving.

• Cultural events:
  During the summer, festivals, concerts, and theatrical performances showcase the local culture.

Administration:
The Municipality of East Samos is based in Vathy and includes the municipal units of Vathy and Pythagoreio. The local administration works to develop the area, promote tourism, and preserve cultural heritage.

The Municipality of East Samos, with its historical wealth, unmatched natural beauty, and the warm hospitality of its people, is a destination that combines tradition with modern life, offering unique experiences to every visitor.