Waterfalls, wild beaches and ancient gods, on one quiet island

Samothraki has no airport: everyone arrives on the ferry from Alexandroupolis, about 1 hour 45 minutes to Kamariotissa. It sails most days of the year, with two sailings on some days in July and August. There is no ferry from Kavala. Reach Alexandroupolis by plane from Athens (about an hour), by car or bus from Thessaloniki, or by train, then take the ferry. It takes some planning, which is part of why the island stays quiet. In July and August book the ferry ahead, above all with a car. More in how to get to Samothraki.

For most visitors, yes. The island’s buses are run by the municipality and mostly in summer, taxis are few, and many beaches, waterfalls and villages are a drive apart. Car and scooter hire is in Kamariotissa, by the port; book ahead for July and August, or bring your car on the ferry. If you stay in Kamariotissa or Therma and mostly walk, you can manage a few days without one. More in getting around.

June and September, for most people: the sea is warm, everything is open and the island is calmer than in July and August, the hottest and busiest months, when you must book ahead. May and early October suit walkers, with green hills and full rivers in spring; the sea is still cool in May. From November to March the island is quiet, wet and mostly closed. More in when to go.

Your accommodation choice depends on your preferences. Kamariótissa (main port village) offers the widest selection of hotels, restaurants, and services—convenient for ferry arrivals and departures but busier than other areas. Chora (main town) feels more authentically Greek with local character, traditional architecture, and proximity to hiking routes—perfect for culture seekers. Hill villages such as Profitis Ilias and Alonia offer quieter, more immersive experiences with limited tourism infrastructure. Beach-near settlements like Lakoma are ideal if beach access is priority. For first-timers, Kamariótissa or Chora offer best balance of amenities and experience. Experienced travelers often venture to smaller villages for authenticity. Most visitors stay 5-10 days, which allows exploring different areas. Book accommodation in advance during July-August but shoulder seasons (May-June, September) offer excellent availability and better prices.

Less than on the busiest Greek islands, but it depends on the season. Your main costs are the room, car or scooter hire, the ferry and meals at the tavernas; walking, the beaches, the waterfalls and the open-air hot pools above Therma cost little or nothing. July and August are the dearest months; June and September give better value. Compare live room prices on the stays map in where to stay.

Yes, if you want the island to yourself. Winter is cool and wet, with snow on Mount Saos, and most hotels, tavernas and beach bars close; Kamariotissa and Chora stay lived in all year. The ferry still runs, but strong winds can cancel sailings, so leave a spare day. Walking is good on dry days, but the gorges are dangerous after rain. Spring and autumn give you the quiet with milder weather.