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Samos Towns

Vathy

Vathy (or Samos )is the island's capital is the largest and busiest habitation. The waterfront consists of a string of bars and tavernas, and although very pleasant, the nicest part of town is the upper town of Ano Vathy.

There you'll see red-tiled 19th Century houses on the hillside. At the northern end of town is a small string of beaches, the best of which is Gagou Beach, about a km from the town center.

An interesting archaeological museum is to be found in Vathy with the largest standing kouros (male statue of the Archaic period) anywhere. There are other fine sculptures and pieces worth seeing.

Pythagorio

Pythagorio, cobble-paved and on the southeast coast of the island is rather upscale. It's beautiful with red hibiscus and pink oleander lining the streets. Many of the ancient sites on Samos are accessible from Pythagorio. Boats from Patmos and other points south all dock here.

Pythagorio is a World Heritage listed city because of the ancient city dating from the Neolithic era. The best remains are from Polycrates time and can be seen just beyond the jetty.