Jet2 Airlines has recently initiated flights to a stunning Greek island characterized by rugged mountains, cobblestone streets, and pristine waterfalls.
In May 2026, the low-cost carrier introduced a new air route from the United Kingdom to Samos, marking only the second airline to provide direct flights to the island after TUI.
Throughout May until the end of October, Jet2 will operate flights twice a week from Manchester Airport, London Stansted, and Birmingham to Samos, offering fares starting at £48.
With a population of 32,000, Samos is not a typical destination for British tourists compared to popular spots like Crete, Cyprus, or Mykonos. Nevertheless, there are numerous compelling reasons to visit Samos.
The island boasts a rich historical heritage, housing two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Pythagoreion and Heraion, and is believed to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess Hera.
Samos has been the birthplace of notable figures such as the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, philosophers Melissus of Samos and Epicurus, and astronomer Aristarchus of Samos, who was the first to propose the Earth’s revolution around the Sun.
Known for its lush greenery, Samos stands out among the Greek islands with its diverse and impressive natural landscapes, featuring dense pine and cypress forests covering a significant portion of the island and Mount Kerkis towering at approximately 1,434 meters on the western end, a popular destination for avid hikers.
Despite being a Greek island, Samos surprises visitors with its rivers and waterfalls, including the renowned Potami waterfall near Karlovasi, where a river flows through a shaded gorge, forming cascading pools suitable for swimming, offering one of the island’s most picturesque settings.
From bustling sandy beaches to secluded pebbly shores flanked by cliffs, Samos offers a variety of beach experiences. Psili Ammos in the east boasts fine golden sands, while remote spots like Mikro Seitani and Megalo Seitani on the northwest coast are accessible only by foot or boat.
Antasia Nalmpanti, the general manager of Casa Cook Samos, a local hotel offering rooms starting at €243, emphasized the island’s authentic and unspoiled charm. Samos retains a sense of undiscovered allure, distinct from heavily touristic Mediterranean destinations, with a tranquil pace, untamed landscapes, and hospitable locals.
At Casa Cook Samos, guests can immerse themselves in the genuine spirit of the island, experiencing traditional architecture, private beach access, and local cuisine that epitomizes the essence of Samos. The hotel aims to foster a sense of community and camaraderie, reminiscent of the Greek tradition of “parea,” where guests can engage in natural conversations at the Parea Bar and savor local dishes prepared by a resident yiayia during the Samian Dinner, creating lasting memories of togetherness.
For an authentic and memorable stay on Samos, Casa Cook Samos provides a gateway to genuine experiences and connections with the island’s rich cultural heritage.
