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How to get from Lesbos to Samos
Lesbos and Samos are linked by ferries a few times a week, usually calling at Chios on the way, taking about 6–8 h. With a change in Chios, or by flying via Athens, the trip can also be done, but there is no daily direct service.
Best option: Ferry. A ferry via Chios is the most direct route between the two islands when you pick a sailing day.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Ferry from Mytilene (Lesbos) to Samos (Vathy or Karlovasi), usually calling at Chios, on North Aegean routes | about 6–8 h | a few sailings a week | about €30–50 | Several ferry companies serve the North Aegean; routes and days change by season. Check current timetables. |
| ferry Ferry Mytilene–Chios, an overnight stop or change in Chios, then Chios–Samos | about 3 h + about 3–4 h at sea, plus waiting | Lesbos–Chios more frequent; Chios–Samos a few times a week | about €40–60 for both legs | Useful when no through sailing fits your dates. |
| flight Fly Mytilene–Athens–Samos, or a small island-hopping flight where offered | about 4–6 h via Athens | daily via Athens | about €100–250 | Island-hopping flights linking North Aegean islands have run in some years; check whether one is operating. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Samos has two main ports, Vathy and Karlovasi; check which one your ferry uses.
- Chios is a pleasant one-night stop if timings do not line up.
- Book a cabin or reserved seat for longer daytime and night sailings.
- Strong winds in winter can delay or cancel sailings; keep a spare day.
Common questions
Is there a direct ferry from Lesbos to Samos?
There are through sailings a few times a week, usually stopping at Chios on the way, taking about 6–8 hours. There is no daily non-stop service. On days without a through ferry, go to Chios and change. Check current timetables, as North Aegean routes change by season.
Can I fly from Lesbos to Samos?
Usually via Athens, which takes 4–6 hours including the connection and costs more than the ferry. In some years small island-hopping flights have linked Lesbos, Chios and Samos, so check whether one is running. Both islands have regular flights to Athens.
What is the cheapest way from Lesbos to Samos?
The ferry, at roughly €30–50 for a deck ticket, is the cheapest option. Breaking the journey in Chios adds a second fare but lets you see another island. Flying via Athens is the most expensive and not much faster door to door.
Do I need to book ahead?
Yes in summer, especially for cabins and cars, since sailings are only a few times a week. Outside summer you can often buy at the port, but check the timetable well in advance and again a day before because schedules and weather can change.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.