Samos offers a wealth of tour options that showcase its stunning coastline, historic sites, and lively culture. Its compact size makes exploring by boat, bus, or even on foot both easy and rewarding. We particularly love the full-day boat cruises, which let you relax on crystal-clear waters and enjoy freshly prepared local lunches. The Samos: Full-Day Boat Cruise with Lunch stands out for its laid-back vibe and scenic stops. Whether it’s swimming in secluded bays or sunbathing on deck, this tour captures the essence of being at sea. For a taste of culture, the Day Trip to Patmos combines history with stunning island scenery, including the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John. With options for every interest—from beaches to Byzantine monasteries—Samos is full of memorable ways to explore.
Quick Overview
The list below includes boat trips, island bus tours, and cultural excursions. Highlights include relaxing full-day boat cruises that sail around Samiopoula and the southern coasts, as well as guided west coast boat cruises that explore deserted bays and caves. For those interested in history and archaeology, options like the Patmos day trip reveal Byzantine relics and the Cave of Revelation. Lastly, for a full immersion into local culture, the full-day island bus tours visit monasteries, wineries, and traditional villages. Now, let’s dive into each tour in detail.
1. Samos: Full-Day Boat Cruise with Lunch (and bus transfer)
Starting at number one, this full-day boat cruise offers an ideal mix of boating adventure and relaxation. From Pythagorion, you’ll cruise to Samiopoula, a small island with a quiet sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The boat’s crew prepares a barbequed fish or meat lunch on board, making the day hassle-free. With a 4.5-star rating from 159 reviews, travelers praise the friendly crew and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. The 8-hour trip is perfect for those who want a leisurely day at sea without the fuss, especially since it includes bus transfers from nearby hotels. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or anyone craving a relaxed day away from the crowds.
Bottom Line: A great value for the price ($55), this cruise delivers a classic Samos experience—sun, sea, and a tasty grilled lunch, all in a friendly atmosphere.
2. Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula
At number two, this boat tour with BBQ is a favorite for its personal touch and authentic island feel. On a traditional Kaiki boat, you sail along the Aegean, stopping at Samiopoula’s turquoise bay for swimming and snorkeling. The highlight is the BBQ lunch on Kakorema beach, where you can feast on fish or meat and enjoy the uninhabited island’s tranquility. With a 4.6-star rating from 69 reviews, travelers highlight the charismatic captain and crew’s hospitality. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it perfect for travelers who want a full day at sea with plenty of time to relax. Keep in mind, extra charges apply for sunbeds on the beach, but the overall experience is well worth it.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-reviewed trip that combines scenic sailing with excellent food and a chance to explore Samiopoula’s pristine waters.
3. Votsalakia Samos: West Coast Boat Cruise with Lunch
Next, the West Coast Boat Cruise offers a shorter, four-hour adventure focusing on the dramatic scenery of Mount Kerkis and the coastline. The tour includes swimming in Limnionas’ turquoise waters and exploring its famous sea cave. Travelers rave about the included sandwich lunch, which keeps energy levels high during the trip. With a 4.2-star rating from 57 reviews, this trip is best suited for those with limited time but still eager to see Samos’ rugged west coast and enjoy a scenic boat ride. Its shorter duration makes it accessible for families or travelers who prefer a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick escape, this cruise blends gorgeous landscapes with a satisfying lunch and opportunities to snorkel in clear waters.
4. From Samos: Day Trip to Patmos Island (and bus transfer)
Number four takes you to the historic island of Patmos. This full-day trip combines a scenic boat ride with visits to the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where the saint received his visions. The trip includes a bus transfer for a more comfortable experience. At 4.2 stars from 54 reviews, travelers appreciate the chance to explore Patmos’ religious sites and charming villages like Chora and Skala. It’s a long day—about 9 hours—but worth it for those interested in Byzantine history and spectacular island scenery. The boat ride offers excellent views, and the guided visits provide depth to the experience.
Bottom Line: A meaningful trip for history buffs and culture lovers, combining scenic sailing with visits to important religious sites.
5. Samos: Full-Day Island Bus Tour (starting from east Samos)
Position five is a comprehensive bus tour that covers the highlights of eastern Samos. You’ll visit the Megali Panagia Monastery and the ancient Temple of Hera, then stop at a pottery workshop, a winery for tasting, and the waterfalls of Samos. The tour lasts about 8 hours and is suitable for those who prefer a land-based exploration. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the mix of cultural and natural sights, including a family-owned oil factory. This tour balances history, local craftsmanship, and tasting opportunities, making it perfect for travelers eager to understand the island beyond its beaches.
Bottom Line: An excellent full-day option for culture, nature, and foodies who want a varied, guided experience.
6. Votsalakia Samos: Samiopoula Boat Cruise with Lunch
This Samiopoula boat cruise is a relaxed 8-hour trip departing from Votsalakia. It’s very similar to other Samiopoula trips but offers a more private feel with homemade lunch on board. You’ll sail to Samiopoula, swim in its clear waters, and spend time on Kakorema beach. Reviewers mention the friendly crew and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personal, less crowded experience while enjoying authentic homemade food. The trip’s 4.3-star rating indicates satisfied customers who loved the laid-back vibe.
Bottom Line: A cozy, intimate boat ride perfect for those seeking a peaceful day of swimming and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
7. Samos: Full-Day Island Bus Tour (Starting from West Samos)
Number seven is a full-day guided bus tour focusing on western Samos. It visits the Koumaradei pottery shop, waterfalls, and the Kondeika winery outside the town of Kokkari. The tour is highly rated (5/5 from 3 reviews) and emphasizes local craftsmanship and authentic tastes. Travelers love the chance to peek into traditional village life and sample regional wines. The itinerary, similar to the east side tour, offers a full, informative day exploring different parts of the island.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers staying on the west side who want a guided, cultural experience with a focus on local artisanry and food.
8. Samos East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ
Number eight combines scenic sailing with a delicious beachside barbecue. This east coast boat trip covers Posidonio, passes Kasonisi island, and features a relaxed BBQ at Megali Lakka beach. Reviewers mention the well-organized day, with drinks and fruit served on board. It’s ideal for those who want a laid-back day on the water with good food and swimming. The 4.5-star rating reflects overall satisfaction with the trip’s casual atmosphere and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: A balanced day of sailing, swimming, and eating, perfect for families and beach lovers.
9. Samos: Half-Day Kasonisi Boat Trip (and bus transfer)
This half-day trip to Kasonisi offers a quick escape to the unspoiled nature of Kasonisi island. The 5-hour tour includes a boat ride along the east coast, with time for swimming in the turquoise waters and exploring the island’s uninhabited beaches. Rated 4.2 stars from 22 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience untouched landscapes and water activities.
Bottom Line: An efficient, scenic trip for those who want a taste of unspoiled natural beauty without a full day commitment.
10. Samos: Full-Day Guided Island Bus Tour
This full-day guided tour highlights ancient sites, local wineries, and traditional villages. You’ll visit the Temple of Hera, sample regional wines, explore the Valley of Nightingales, and walk through charming fishing villages. The tour emphasizes archaeological and scenic sights, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. While it has only 4 reviews, the consistent ratings of 4.5/5 attest to its quality. It’s well-suited for travelers interested in history, food, and rural scenery, especially if you want a structured day with plenty of local flavor.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting to combine culture, nature, and gastronomy in a full-day guided experience.
11. Turkey – Ephesus from Samos
Number eleven offers a unique cross-border experience with a day trip to Kusadasi and Ephesus. The trip includes a boat ride to Turkey, visits to the ancient city of Ephesus, and the vibrant bazaar of Kusadasi. Rated 4.0/5 from 18 reviews, travelers appreciate the seamless logistics for a full-day adventure. It’s especially appealing for history and culture enthusiasts who want to see world-famous ruins and experience Turkish markets without the hassle of planning transportation.
Bottom Line: An enriching cultural experience that combines Greek island scenery with Turkish history and markets.
12. Samiopoula and Kakorema Full-Day Tour with Lunch
This full-day tour blends sailing, swimming, and a private beach visit. Departing from Pythagorio, you’ll sail to Samiopoula for an hour of beach time, then head to Kakorema’s private pebble beach for several hours. The captain personally prepares barbecue fish or meat for lunch. Reviewers note its friendly staff and the chance to enjoy peaceful swimming in scenic spots. It’s ideal for families or those who want a more intimate day with authentic local food and quiet beaches.
Bottom Line: A versatile, relaxing day on the water with personal touches and excellent swimming opportunities.
13. Day Cruise Patmos Monastery The Holy Island from Samos
This day cruise offers a comprehensive look at Patmos and its religious landmarks, including the Cave of Revelation and Saint John’s Monastery. It also explores the charming Chora village and Skala port. Rated 4.0/5 from 8 reviews, travelers find it a meaningful cultural trip, especially for those interested in Byzantine history. The 10-hour itinerary provides a full immersion in the island’s spiritual and scenic charm, with convenient round-trip transport.
Bottom Line: A thorough, enlightening day for history and religion enthusiasts wanting a mix of sightseeing and cultural insight.
14. Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos
This boat trip and BBQ combines a scenic cruise with a hearty barbecue. Departing from Samos, it hits Samiopoula and Kakorema beach, where you can swim and sunbathe while enjoying grilled fish or meat. Reviewers mention its relaxed atmosphere and tasty food. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a full day of water fun, good food, and scenic views, with the added bonus of avoiding crowded tourist spots.
Bottom Line: A fun, satisfying day for water lovers and food fans alike.
$81.03 per person
15. Ferry to Kusadasi from Samos
Finally, for travelers heading to Turkey, the ferry to Kusadasi offers a simple, affordable way to cross the water. With flexible tickets, including one-way and round-trip options, it’s perfect for planning a Turkish side trip. The roughly 1 hour 15-minute ride is straightforward, and you can explore Kusadasi’s lively bazaar and beaches at your leisure. Reviewers highlight the convenience of pre-booking and the smooth boarding process.
Bottom Line: An easy, reliable ferry service ideal for those planning to extend their trip into Turkey or simply enjoy a quick water crossing.
$81
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Picking the right tour in Samos depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If relaxing on the water tops your list, the full-day boat cruises or Samiopoula trips offer great value, especially if you love swimming and fresh seafood. For cultural enthusiasts, the full-day island bus tours or the Patmos day trip provide insight into local traditions and Byzantine relics. If your time is limited but you want a taste of Kasonisi’s wilderness, the half-day boat trip is a perfect pick.
When booking, consider the tour’s duration, whether you prefer land or sea, and how much you want to spend. For trips including cultural stops or wine tastings, the full-day guided island tour is hard to beat. Planning your excursions around the best weather months—spring or early fall—will enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts
Samos offers a variety of tours to match every taste and schedule. For a straightforward day at sea, the full-day boat cruises provide a classic experience, while the cultural guided tours reveal the island’s rich heritage. For those wanting a quick adventure, the Kasonisi boat trip hits all the right notes.
Booking early is wise—these tours fill quickly, especially in peak season. Whether you’re a sunseeker, history lover, or a foodie, Samos has something memorable waiting for you. Enjoy your trip and make sure to pick a tour that fits your style and interests for the best experience.