Lesvos at a glance

Lesvos is a jewel, often called the emerald isle because much of it is covered in lush forests and olive groves. It is one of the biggest and most beautiful islands in Greece, large enough to have an unbelievable wealth of attractions but traditional enough to overflow with charm and character.

So if you want an action-packed, fun-filled family holiday, or to relax under a sunshade on a secluded beach, delve into fascinating history, sip an ouzo in a tranquil village, climb a mountain or explore a petrified forest - then welcome to Lesvos.

There are long, lively sandy beaches such as those at Eressos, Kalloni, Molyvos and Anaxos; quieter beaches including Ermogenis, Kambos and Gavathas, plus windsurfing at Sigri.

Bustling Mytilene, the cosmopolitan artistic and commercial centre, is full of shops, bars and restaurants. It has lovely 18th century mansions and what is believed to be the largest castle in the Mediterranean.

The winding streets of magnificent Molyvos lead from the town and beach to a gloriously-preserved medieval castles. Molyvos is a busy, popular resort and a great place to enjoy the sunset.

There are many villages to visit, so make time to choose from delightful places like the traditional craft centre of Agiassos, in the mountains. Petra, with its church high on a rock, and Polichnitos, with its hot thermal springs is on the coast.

It’s difficult to go to Lesvos and avoid history that rewinds beyond the time, 2,600 years ago, when the woman poet Sappho was born there. At least eight ancient communities have been discovered and the remains of a towering stone aqueduct date to when the Romans needed to channel water from the mountains to the coast. 

It really is an island that offers something for everyone.

Where to stay in Lesvos

Lesvos, Greece

Anaxos

The pretty beach resort of Anaxos lies to the west of Petra in the next bay. This lovely resort is popular yet is still very small.

Molyvos Lesvos, Greece

Molyvos

Molyvos is one of the main holiday resorts on the island of Lesvos, which is a couple of hour's drive from the capital, Mytilene.

Petra Lesvos, Greece

Petra

The sleepy backstreet's are reminiscent of the more traditional villages on the island, making it ideal for those seeking a taste of real Greece.

Kalloni 772034920

Skala Kalloni

Skala Kalloni is a humble and quaint village with a lovely square at its centre consisting of bakeries, tavernas and shops.

Top Hotels in Lesvos

Best Time to Visit Lesvos

 Blessed with sunshine from April to October, foodies should consider an early July visit when the Lesbos Food Festival take place featuring demonstrations, workshops on everything from cheese to caramel, street food markets and plenty of ouzo.
Dance away the calories at the farewell beach party.

Lesvos Travel Advice

The roads on Lesvos can be mountainous and curvy, so if you don't hire a car, the best way to get around is by taxi or bus.

There are plenty of taxis at the airport, at Mytilene town centre near the country bus station. The taxis are usually silver or yellow and charge using a meter. There are taxis at all the main resorts such as PetraMolyvos and Kalloni. Most of the small villages will have at least one taxi driver available. Drivers prefer not to use meters outside the capital and charge around one euro per kilometre but prices can vary. Always feel comfortable agreeing a price before you begin your journey by taxi.

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