Getting from Crete to Samothrace

If you are heading to Samothrace from Crete you are going to one of the most remote islands in Greece, rising dramatically from the northern Aegean with Mount Fengari at its centre, waterfalls, rock pools, ancient plane forests and the Sanctuary of the Great Gods where the Winged Victory of Samothrace was discovered in 1863.

Take the ferry

There is no direct ferry from Crete to Samothrace. The only ferry connection to Samothrace departs from Alexandroupoli on the northeastern mainland, with daily trips in summer taking around 1 hour 45 minutes. Getting to Alexandroupoli from Crete means flying via Athens first.

Getting there by air

Samothrace has no airport. The nearest airport is Alexandroupoli. Flying from Crete to Athens takes around 50 minutes and then Athens to Alexandroupoli takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, followed by the ferry to Samothrace taking around 1 hour 45 minutes. Total travel time is around 5 to 6 hours.

Your best option

Fly to Alexandroupoli via Athens and take the ferry across to Samothrace. Check the ferry schedule before booking your flights and build your Alexandroupoli arrival around the afternoon departure. Samothrace rewards at least three or four nights. Bring good walking shoes and come prepared as facilities on the island are limited.