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How to get from Chios to Samos
Direct ferries between Chios and Samos are few and mostly seasonal, taking roughly 3 to 4 h when they run. Otherwise you travel via Piraeus by ferry, or fly via Athens; check current timetables before planning.
Best option: Ferry. When a direct sailing runs it is far quicker and cheaper than going back through Athens or Piraeus.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Direct sailings between Chios town and Samos (Karlovasi or Vathy) on north–south Aegean island lines | about 3 to 4 h | a few a week at most, mainly in summer | about €20–35 | These routes change every season; check Greek ferry booking sites close to your date. |
| flight Flights from Chios to Athens and from Athens to Samos (Aegean/Olympic and Sky Express); occasional island-hopping regional flights may link the two islands | about 3 to 5 h with a connection | daily via Athens | about €80–200 in total | Check for any direct regional flight on your date before booking via Athens. |
| ferry Overnight or day ferries from Chios to Piraeus, then a ferry from Piraeus to Samos | a full day or more | daily on each leg | about €80–120 in total | A fallback only if no direct boat or flight suits. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Plan your island-hopping around the direct boat schedule, which is the limiting factor.
- Samos has two main ports, Vathy and Karlovasi, plus Pythagorio; check which one your boat uses.
- Book a car on Samos ahead in summer; both islands are large.
- Have a fallback via Athens in case of strong meltemi winds.
Common questions
Is there a direct ferry from Chios to Samos?
Sometimes. A few direct sailings a week run in summer on north–south Aegean island lines, taking roughly three to four hours, but they are not year-round and the timetables change each season. Check Greek ferry booking sites close to your travel date. Outside summer you may need to go via Piraeus or fly via Athens.
Can I fly from Chios to Samos?
Usually via Athens, with a change of plane. Both islands have frequent flights to Athens. Regional island-hopping flights linking the eastern Aegean islands have operated in some seasons, so check whether one runs on your date. Via Athens, allow three to five hours including the connection.
Which port on Samos will I arrive at?
Samos has three ports: Vathy (Samos town) on the north-east, Karlovasi on the north-west and Pythagorio in the south. Ferries from the north, including from Chios, often call at Karlovasi and Vathy. Check your ticket, as the ports are up to an hour apart by road.
Do I need to book the Chios–Samos ferry ahead?
In July and August it is wise, especially with a car, because direct sailings are few and can fill up. Outside high season you can usually buy a ticket a day or two before. Always check the schedule a few days ahead, since boats can be rescheduled or cancelled in strong winds.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.