A deep natural harbour lined with neoclassical Samos architecture.
Vathy and Samos Town form the island's capital, with museums, waterfront squares and road access to northern villages and vineyards.
Vathy climbs around one of the Aegean's deepest natural bays, while the lower waterfront is often called Samos Town. Neoclassical houses recall nineteenth-century trade, and the Archaeological Museum holds the colossal kouros from the Heraion.
The capital provides year-round markets, restaurants and services rather than a resort atmosphere. Roads lead quickly to Vourliotes, Kokkari and the Muscat-growing slopes of Mount Karvounis.
Practical information
Some ferries use Vathy and others Karlovasi. The town is hilly and traffic-heavy near sailings; use buses for Kokkari and Pythagoreio when practical.
