2026 Samos Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Crete is one of my favorite destinations. Balos Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Located near Chania town it is quite a road up there and quite some stairs. Bring water and food. You won t regret it. Be prepared to spend all day because you will not find a better sun spot and more perfect sand than here. Also the water was super warm. #Myperfectstaycation

#falladventures Church of the Holy Trinity – Karlovasi, Greece ⛪🇬🇷🌊 Perched above **Karlovasi harbor**, the **Church of the Holy Trinity (Ιερός Ναός Αγίας Τριάδας)** offers one of the most scenic viewpoints on the island. From here, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the harbor, the sparkling Aegean waters, and the surrounding hills — a perfect reward for the climb up the hillside 🌅✨. The path to the church is steep but manageable, even for less experienced hikers, making it a great short adventure for visitors who enjoy a mix of light trekking and sightseeing 🥾. The church itself is small but charming, reflecting the traditional Cycladic style with whitewashed walls, a simple bell tower, and an atmosphere of peaceful devotion. Tips 👣 • Go early in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer visitors 📸 • Wear comfortable shoes for the hillside path • Bring water and take your time on the walk — the views along the way are as rewarding as the destination 🌿 Perfect for 🤍 • Hikers and casual walkers • Photography lovers seeking scenic harbor views • Visitors looking to combine culture, history, and nature on Samos

#hellohalloween Vathi, Samos 🇬🇷🌊 Harbor Charm • Stroll along the picturesque harbor of Vathi, the capital of Samos, lined with pastel-colored houses, cafés, and fishing boats gently rocking in the water. 🚤 • Visit the central square for a relaxed coffee and watch local life unfold around you. ☕ Old Town Exploration • Wander through Ano Vathi, the old part of town built on the hillside. Narrow alleys, traditional homes, and scenic viewpoints give it a nostalgic, authentic Greek feel. 🏘️ • Stop by the Church of Agios Spyridon with its tall bell tower overlooking the sea. ⛪ Cultural Highlights • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Samos to see ancient artifacts, including the famous colossal Kouros statue. 🏺 • Discover local art and crafts in small galleries and shops tucked into the backstreets. 🎨 Beaches and Nature • Swim at Gagou Beach, just a short walk from the harbor — small but beautiful with calm, clear waters. 🏖️ • Take short trips to nearby beaches like Livadaki or Kerveli for peaceful swimming and coastal views. 🌿 Local Flavors • Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional meze at seaside tavernas — try grilled octopus, moussaka, and local Samos wine. 🍷🍴 • Visit a local winery to taste the island’s sweet Muscat wines, famous since ancient times. Evening Strolls • Walk the harbor promenade at sunset — lights reflecting on the water create a soft, romantic atmosphere. 🌅 • End the evening with a drink or dessert in one of the cozy waterfront bars or cafés. ✨ Vathi offers the perfect balance of culture, seaside relaxation, and traditional island life — a peaceful gateway to the beauty of Samos.

【Introduction】: Turkey's Aegean coast boasts azure waters, hidden coves, and ancient ruins, best explored by yacht for a luxurious and liberating experience. Why choose this? Escape crowded attractions, dock at exclusive uninhabited islands, and enjoy island-hopping swims, seafood BBQs, and sunset cruises—perfect for couples, families, or friend gatherings. ⛺【Must-Know Tips】: Essentials to pack: 1. Clothing: Swimwear, UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat 2. Sun protection: High-SPF waterproof sunscreen (SPF50+ recommended) 3. Documents: Passport copy (required for routes near Greek islands) 4. Extras: Motion sickness pills (optional), underwater camera, snorkel gear (some yachts provide) 5. Best season: May–October (July–August has warmest water but more tourists) 🛬【Itinerary Ideas】: Recommended routes & highlights 1. Bodrum Loop Highlights: • Soak in natural sulfur springs at Kara Ada (Black Island) • Snorkel around shipwrecks at Tavşan Adası (Rabbit Island) • Enjoy freshly caught seafood dinner on deck 2. Fethiye–Butterfly Valley Highlights: • Explore the boat-access-only Blue Cave • Combine paragliding + yachting at Ölüdeniz (Olive Beach) 3. Kuşadası–Near Samos Island (Greece) Highlights: • View ancient Ephesus ruins from the coastline • Feed seagulls at Güvercin Adası (Pigeon Island) 📅 Sample day-trip schedule: 09:00 Boarding & safety briefing 11:00 First swim/snorkel stop 13:00 Deck lunch (grilled fish + Turkish meze) 15:00 Discover second hidden beach 18:00 Sunset views while returning 🧡【Pro Tips】: Cost reference: • Private charter (8-10pax): ~€800-1500/day (includes captain + fuel) • Shared cruise: ~€50-100/person Language: Most captains speak basic English—confirm key details in writing Safety: • Verify life jackets and first-aid kits onboard • Avoid windy days (especially May & October) Cultural notes: • No drones in some coves (military zones) • Limit alcohol (strict penalties for boating under influence) (Note: Stops may adjust for weather—reconfirm before departure.)

#greece #samos

#summerdestinations

#beachaholic Balos Beach in Crete is a breathtaking paradise. With its stunning turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and dramatic cliffs, it's a nature lover's dream. The journey to reach this remote gem adds to the adventure, and the panoramic views are worth every step. A must-visit destination for its unparalleled beauty and serene atmosphere.

Beautiful Greek island Samos is one of the green Islands of Mediterranean sea with amazing nature, amazing beaches for a great summer and lots of hiking trails for winter.

Balos Bay with the sandy beach of the same name is located in the western part of the Greek island of Crete. The beach is located near the island of Imeri Gramvous. This is one of the most popular places in Crete, excursions are often carried here, and those tourists who have been here once want to come back here again. The fact is that Balos is the confluence of three seas. At this point, the waters of the Ionian, Aegean and Libyan seas meet, and the water in the bay changes color depending on the time of day. Tour guides talk about 20 different shades - from light turquoise to dark blue. Address: Balos Beach, Peninsula, Γραμβούσα 734 00, Greece. #bucketlistreboot #greece #summervacation