Jet2 will offer new services for summer 2026 to a Greek island that’s quieter than many of its neighbours and famous for its wine production.

Holidaymakers will be able to fly to the island of Samos from Birmingham, London Stansted, and Manchester this summer. Until now, the only UK to Samos route has been operated by TUI, who offer a seasonal service from London Gatwick. 

In summer 2026, Jet2 will fly twice-weekly flights from London Stansted between May 7 and October 29, a Monday service from Birmingham between May 4 and October 26, and a twice-weekly service from Manchester between May 5 and October 30. Flights will take around four hours to reach the island.

Although it’s a Greek island, Samos is closer to Turkey and separated from the mainland by the Mycale Strait, which is just a mile wide. Surrounded by the sparkling Aegean Sea, Samos boasts a variety of beautiful beaches that tend to be quieter than those on nearby islands, such as Mykonos and Kos. 

Perhaps one of the reasons why Samos is less popular is that some of its most beautiful beaches are shingle rather than sand. Tsamadou Beach is considered one of the best on the island, with a bay of deep turquoise waters surrounded by lush green mountains covered in pine trees. While it has white pebbles on the shore, it’s just as beautiful as a sandy beach, and you can hire a sunbed if you don’t want to sit on the shingle. As long as you’re willing to pack some flip-flops, you can enjoy uncrowded, quiet beaches. 

Kokkari Beach is another popular choice, as it runs along the north of the island, close to a fishing village that has a traditional Greek feel. It has clear, bright blue waters that are perfect for swimming, and plenty of space to stretch out under an olive tree.

Visit the village of Kokkari and you’ll find pretty Greek houses set among winding streets, traditional tavernas, and restaurants overlooking the sea where you can watch the sun set at night. The town of Pythagoreio is another must-visit. Named after mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, who was born on Samos, it’s full of historic sites such as a 6th-century aqueduct and the clifftop Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, which gives incredible views across the town. 

The sun-drenched island is covered in vineyards, and one of its most famous products is sweet dessert wines made from local Muscat grapes. You can book a wine tour or visit wineries such as Vakakis in the north of the island. Wander around the lush green vineyards before taking a tour to see how the local wines are made. Visits to Vakakis also include a tasting in their rustic stone bar, accompanied by local olives and snacks. 

Speaking about the new routes in a statement, Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “After experiencing consistent demand from holidaymakers wanting to explore Greece, we are confident that these new flights and holidays will prove popular with customers looking for an off the beaten track style holiday. We look forward to taking customers to Samos on their well-deserved holidays and showcasing our VIP customer service.”

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