Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Samos. Samos Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 70 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SMI:
- Can you legally enter Greece? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by KTEL Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Samos from the Airport
From SMI, the KTEL Bus gets you to Samos in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the KTEL Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Samos
Two recommendations for your time in Samos:
Start with Pythagorio Port and Archaeological Site. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Samos. Then, if time allows, make your way to Heraion of Samos. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SMI, check out Samos Airport Duty-Free Shop or Relax at Samos Airport Cafe & Bar to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near SMI
For food in Samos, local travelers recommend Psarades. If you have time for a second stop, Elia Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at SMI, Samos Airport Cafe & Bar is the go-to. Airport Departure Gate Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Samos, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at SMI
Specific locker facilities at SMI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Samos itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SMI for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Samos or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Need a Nap? Options at SMI
Long overnight layover? Your options at SMI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greece also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Samos with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Samos may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.