Getting around Samothraki
Yes, you’ll want a car or a scooter: buses are seasonal and only serve the main villages, and many beaches and trailheads need a drive. Rental cars are available at the port in Kamariotissa. Book ahead for July and August.
Compare car hire
Rent on the island, or pick up in Alexandroupolis and take the car on the ferry.
Car and bike rentals
Reserve cars, scooters and bikes before July and August, when they run out. Taking the car to Samothraki? Ask the rental company before you book whether it may go on the ferry.
Transfers
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On the island
Hire firms, ferry ticket offices and taxis, all in Kamariotissa by the port.
Car & scooter hire
Ferry tickets
Taxis
Buses
Three bus routes start from the stop by the port in Kamariotissa, next to the small lighthouse. You pay the driver on board.
- To Chora: about 10 minutes, several buses a day
- To Alonia, Lakoma and Profitis Ilias: about 20 minutes
- To Palaiopoli, Karyotes and Therma: about 30 minutes; some buses go on to Ano Meria
From October to April the buses run on weekdays only, a few times a day. In summer they run every day, and in July and August there is a weekend bus to Pachia Ammos beach. Times change twice a year: check the timetable posted at the stop when you arrive.
Without a car
Getting around Samothraki: buses, taxis, scooters and boats
Good to know
Do I need a car on Samothraki?
A car is highly recommended and essential for fully exploring Samothraki. Public transport is limited (seasonal buses serve main villages), and many attractions require driving to trailheads or beaches. Car rental is affordable (€25-50/day) and widely available at ferry ports. With a car, you gain independence to explore at your pace, discover hidden beaches, access challenging hiking trailheads, and visit remote mountain villages. That said, if you're staying in Kamariótissa (main port) or Chora (main village) for the entire trip and prefer guided tours or taxis, you could manage without one. However, you'd miss significant island experiences. For 90% of visitors, having a car transforms the trip from limited to extraordinary. Roads are well-maintained and driving is straightforward.
How do I get to Samothraki and is it easy?
Samothraki is accessible by ferry from mainland Greece's northern ports. From Alexandroupoli (2 hours by ferry), you'll find the most frequent connection—ferries operate 1-2 times daily in summer, 3-4 times weekly in winter. From Kavala (1.5-2 hours by ferry), fewer sailings are available but still reliable. Getting there is straightforward: fly into Athens or Thessaloniki, rent a car, drive north to Alexandroupoli or Kavala, then take the ferry. Alternatively, some travelers fly into Thessaloniki and take a longer drive. Yes, it takes effort, but that journey is precisely why Samothraki remains unspoiled—casual tourists don't make the trip. Ferry rides are scenic and worth the journey. Once you arrive, you'll understand the pilgrimage was worthwhile. Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season.
Is the ferry journey to Samothraki difficult or long?
The ferry journey is quite pleasant and part of the Samothraki experience. From Alexandroupoli (most common), it's a scenic 2-hour sailing—long enough to enjoy views and shift into island mode, but short enough to avoid seasickness concerns. The ferry has comfortable seating, a café with snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Kavala route takes 1.5-2 hours and is similarly pleasant. Ferry schedules are reliable year-round, though summer has more frequent sailings. Most travelers find the journey enjoyable rather than difficult. You'll see the island emerge from the sea—a magical moment as Mount Saos becomes visible on the horizon. Pro tip: Book tickets in advance during peak season (July-August), sit on deck for views, and enjoy coffee while contemplating your upcoming adventure.