Port of Sami

About Sami, Guide and Tourist Attractions
(Sami, Kefalonia, Greece)

Located on the east coast of Kefalonia, Sami is one of the island's busiest ports and has for many years been popular with visitors who come to enjoy the beautiful natural attractions of the surrounding area.

Although Sami is not strictly known as a resort town, it has several stunning beaches close by, while the choice of accommodation and restaurants makes it an ideal base for exploring the island.

What to do in Sami

Sami is still a working Greek town so the majority of visitors tend to use it as a quiet base for exploring Kefalonia's wider treasures rather than as the main focus of their visit. Although Sami itself only has a few tourist attractions, it is worth spending some time exploring the town, with the pleasant cafés and tavernas around the harbour providing a good place to soak up the traditional Greek atmosphere.

Situated on a hill to the south of town are the ruins of ancient Sami; here you will find a fascinating site consisting of artefacts spanning several different civilisations over thousands of years. Ancient Sami can be reached by car or public transport, while the more energetic will find the walk from modern Sami well worth the effort as the views along the route are spectacular.

Tourist Attractions

Sami is conveniently located close to two of Kefalonia's most popular natural attractions. The Drogarati cave system and Melissani Lake both attract large numbers of visitors every year.

The Drogarati caves were discovered 300 years ago when an earthquake revealed the cave entrance for the first time. It wasn't until 1963, however, that the general public was first allowed to witness the caves' stunning natural splendour. Visitors to the caves can take a walk through the winding corridors where stalactites and stalagmites continue to slowly form their unusual shapes. The highlight of the tour is the huge hall known as the 'Sala of Apotheosis', where the perfect acoustics often provide a venue for shows and concerts.

Melissani Lake and Cave is located just over 1.5 km / 1 mile from Sami. Melissani Cave consists of two water-filled chambers in the shape of a letter 'B', with one chamber still enclosed while the other has lost its roof, allowing the sunlight to illuminate the water. A tour of the cave and lake is conducted on small boats that take you through the two stunning and fascinating chambers.