Access to Samothraki
Samothraki can be reached via a two-hour ferry trip from Alexandroupoli, the easternmost city on the Greek mainland. The ferry connects Samothraki with Alexandroupoli twice daily in the peak season months of July and August and less frequently at other times of the year. Tickets are sold at various travel agents close to the port at Alexandroupoli.
For information on ferry schedules and prices visit Zante Ferries
Mobility on the island
In terms of transportation, two companies rent cars and motorcycles in Kamariotissa. Bicycles are available for rent in Kamariotissa and Kato Kariotes. Public buses link the bigger settlements about four to seven times a day during the summer. In addition, there are three taxis available on the island.
For more details click here.
Attractions and activities
The temple complex of the Sanctuary of the Great Gods at Paleopoli, comparable to the ones of Crete, are reminiscent of the ancient cult of the Kabeirian mysteries. A newly renovated Archaeological Museum at the same site displays a number of excavated findings together with a cast of the famous marble statue of the winged goddess “Nike of Samothraki”. Other historical attractions involve a protective stonewall and three fortification towers in the Northern part of Samothraki, built during the island’s Venetian occupation in the 15th century. In Therma the Monastery of “Christos” dates back to the late Byzantine era and is regarded as Samothraki’s most important standing monument of that period. Another fortification tower, a folklore museum and a private museum are located in the traditional settlement of Chora.
More information on historical attractions can be found on Samothraki-Tourism and a beautiful 3D animation of the Sanctuary at the National Geographic Webpage.
Samothraki’s unique flora and fauna is protected under Natura 2000 directives. The island is known for its many waterfalls and rock pools, locally known as “vathres”, which are deep enough for swimming. Beaches are mostly pebbly, offering optimal conditions for snorkeling and diving. Two sandy beaches can be found in the South, of which one can only be accessed by hiking or boat. Several hiking paths lead to the top of the central mountain Fengari or other locations on the island.
For more details visit Samothraki-Tourism.
The island’s only tourist agency is offering guided activities, such as canyoning, hiking, diving, boat tours and nature walks. Read more (in Greek)
Therma bears its name to the occurrence of thermal springs, which are well known for their therapeutic properties. The spa building includes shared and individual pools. Several outdoor pools are situated close by and can be used free of charge.
Having been a popular pilgrimage destination in the past, Samothraki continues to attract religious visitors until today. Small chapels and churches can be found all over the island. The monument “Stasidi tou Apostolou Paulou” reminds of the arrival of the Apostle Paul on the island around 50 AD. In Alonia one monk is still holding services at the Monastery of “Agios Athanasios”.
For more information on historical, natural, religious and health attractions, visit
Accommodation
In terms of accommodation, Samothraki offers a range of small hotels, apartments and rooms for rent, most of them located in Kamariotissa, Paleopoli, Chora or Therma.
For accommodation choices visit
Two municipal camping grounds are located in Therma, in the Northern part of the island. More information can be found here (in Greek).