How to get Lesvos Island

If you wish to go to the north-east (NE) of Lesbos take the NE exit of the Mantamados to WN from the Epano Skala district. You’ll  arrive soon in Panagiouda (6 km), a nice village with a picturesque fishing port buzzing with life, especially during the warm summer nights. A paved Square, lined with traditional tavernas which serve mezes (appetizers) of the local cuisine: sun-dried octopus and fresh fish. The bars, operating throughout the year, attract young crowds who enjoy loud music and having fun until the early hours of morning.

Moria, a village 6,8 km from Mytilene is an interesting place to visit, offering a splendid view of its picturesque towers and old manor houses built amidst the olive groves and orchards. Don’t miss out on seeing the arches of the great aquaduct built in the Roman times which stand approximately 600 m west of the village. Also you can book ferry tickets through aktoploika.gr

The road continues through beautiful olive groves. Make a stop at Pamfila (7 km) to visit the church of Aghia (St) Barbara. A monumental church with an exquisite dome and icons; it is the pride of the local inhabitants. At a distance of 300 m from the village, you will come to “Hourmadies”, a beautiful holiday resort with a palm tree-lined coast which add a tropical note to the surroundings. Hourmadies has excellent beaches for swimming such as Vigla and Niselia.

Pyrgi Thermis lies 10 Km from the town of Mytilene. The main feature of the area is its tall, mainly 3-storey manor houses surrounded by lush vegetation a short distance from the sea. At the beginning of the century there were about 160 towers in the area, some of which still exist today. These towers are extremely impressive for their fine architecture and imposing style. The byzantine church of “Panaghia i Trouloti” is an exquisite monument of art, built in the 14th century. This church, built in a “crusiform” style church with a dome” style is one of the few intact byzantine monuments that still exist on our island. A lovely beach called “Kanoni”, which is ideal for bathing, lies a short distance from the public road.

The road continues to nearby Thermi (11 Km). This area is a suitable holiday resort with a relatively large availability of rooms to rent, beautiful beaches, restaurants offering a large variety of dishes and above all a relaxing, peaceful environment. Every day, particularly during the evening, fishing boats bring in their catch and locals flock to the port to buy fresh fish. The nearby ruins of an old watermill adds charm to the landscape. Here is where you’ll find the old “Sarlitza Palace” Hotel with its therapeutic mineral springs.

Situated at a higher altitude is the Nunery of Aghios Raphael. This is where the relics of the young Saint Raphael, Nicolaos and Irene are kept. These relics were found in a most extraordinary way, following a series of dreams which believers had, as some sort of sign, later came true in real-life when the pick-axes used to uncover the relics and confirmed by historical research. Thousands of pilgrims flock there every year to worship the Saints that perform miracles. The nunnery has a hostel which provides accommodation for its pilgrims.

North0west of Thermi, among olive groves and hillocks lies Pigi (29 Km). A lovely itinerary unfolds for those who love adventure and wish to find themselves in the heart of the nature of Lesbos, far from the crowds and traffic. The road goes through a beautiful forest leading to Aghia Paraskevi at the centre of the island. The coastal road from Thermi port leads to Mistegna (18,5 Km) - a village covered in olive trees - with Skala Mistegnon (1 km away), a graphic haven surrounded by rich vegetation, with its spotless beaches and fresh fish served daily. Just down the road (24 Km) you’ll reach Skala Neon Mistegnon (Baltzikiou). A lovely beach with crystal clear water and multi-coloured pebbles awaits you. The beach is surrounded by vegetable patches and gardens, while there are some restaurants just a breath away.

The next sight in this panorama of images is the beautiful sandy beach of “Xambelia”. The rooms to let and restaurants by the sea ensure a pleasant and comfortable stay. On your way to Madamados (37,4 Km) you’ll see some beautiful beaches such as Aspropotamos and Aghios Stephanos, with its few houses surrounded by olive and plane trees south of the settlement.

An idyllic bay with an exellent beach for bathing opens up. The church of Saint Stephanos, a remarkable byzantine monument built in red trachyte which is indeed a masterpiece, well worth visiting. The small islands opposite the coast are called the “Tokmakia”. One of them, “Aspronisi”, on the west side, has a beautiful beach with golden sand and blue waters. These features with the sound made by the cries of seagulls overhead, create a heavenly landscape. This is where the fullest and most delicious sea-urchins can be found, while the surrounding area is suitable for fishing. So, if you have a boat don’t miss this trip/promenade”.

Continuing along the main road artery, you eventually end up on the North side of the island. Go as far as Skamnia (Sikamnia) and from there take the road to Mythimna (Molyvos). You’ll enjoy the drive.

There are two to five flights daily flights from Athens to Lesvos and vice-versa. The frequency of the flights is subject to seasonality. Direct flights connect Lesvos to Chios and Lesvos to Thessaloniki . There are also direct charter flights from island to various airports in Europe. More...

Large Ferry Boats which are part of the Maritime Shipping Company of Lesvos (N.E.L. ) fleet, depart daily to Chios - Piraeus. Also there is ferry to Rafina, Thessaloniki and Kavala. More...

Accommodation

Lesvos Island is divided in a few areas: Mytilene area, NE Lesvos, Molyvos, Petra, Sigri - Eressos, Kalloni area, Gera - Agiasos - Plomari, Polihnitos - Vatera. Nice hotels and rooms are available in Lesvos for the best holidays in Greece. More...

Transport & map of Lesvos Island

There are buses connection between cities of Lesvos every day.  A lot of buses go from capital Mytilene to different cities of island. Usually last bus start 6-7 p.m.  Here you can learn bus schedule to plan your trip. More...

Different Taxi companies provide their services on island. Taxi operate all over the Lesvos, excursions, travel between cities are available. In our site you can learn prices to plan your travel. More…

Here you can find maps of Lesvos: road map, Mytilene town map, nautical charts of Lesvos. More…

Beaches & attraction of Lesvos Island

Lesvos beaches are very beautiful. Enjoy sunset on Lesvos Island. Here you can choose where you prefer to swim. More…

All Lesvos attractions on our site. Sights, interesting information about island, what to do and where to go, ideas for unforgettable holidays. More…

The North-east of Lesbos

The North of Lesvos

This side of the island has the greatest tourist development. The highway to Kalloni leads through a pine forest, “tsamliki”, as Mytilenians call it.

You’ll reach the crossroads at some point along the road. It’s worth taking the road that leads to Aghia Paraskevi. You’ll be impressed by the old manor houses of the town and especially the “Old Schoolhouse” of Aghia Paraskevi. (If you don’t particularly enjoy dirt roads, take the road to Firanes and at Pigi. Once again you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of the fauna and flora of Lesbos. Winter and Spring are the best seasons for going for a drive in this area.

Alternatively, you could get back on the highway and reach Kalloni, the island centre, and from there choose the part of the island you prefer seeing. Skala Kalloni is a must. Savour a breathtaking view of a Gulf of unique beauty. Try the famous “Anchovies” of Kalloni”, a speciality of the area; anchovies which have been salted on the same day are the best of all, so see if you can get a taste of those.

If you’d rather take the road leading to the West of Lesbos don’t forget to make a stop at the Monastery of Leimon (for monks) which was founded in 1523.

If, on the other hand, you prefer to drive on the northern road artery, then we recommend you visit the byzantine monastery of Myrsiniotissa and then make your way through pine forest and green olive groves leading to the charming town of Petra with its long, sandy beach and its imposing rock on which the chapel of “Panaghia i Glykofilousa” was built.

No matter where you are in these parts, sunset is breathtaking. Sunset is just the right time to visit Petri - a village built at the foot of the mountain (on your right, just before you reach Petra). The rapidly changing colours of the scenery and the panoramic view of Petra and the crimson sun as it dips into the Aegean sea, are images which will remain unforgettable.

If you decide to drive along the coastline of Petra you’ll reach Anaxos, a popular resort mainly owing to its beautiful beach. The village of Skoutaros is not far down the road, and if you feel like continuing (dirt road from this point on) the road leads to Eressos passing through the small settlements of Tsichranda, Kalo Limani and Ancient Antissa.

If you take the road North of Petra, you’re in for a unique surprise: a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque municipalities of Greece, Mythimna otherwise known as Molyvos. Here the style is entirely different. The impressive architecture of the town makes you want to get there as fast as you can, to lose yourself in the traditional town and feel its magic. The castle which crowns the town, dates from the byzantine era. It was remodelled in 1373 by Francesco Gattelusio. This castle is the second largest on Lesbos in terms of land area and grandeur. It is worthwhile visiting the picturesque village of Vafios, southeast of Molyvos, with its unique traditions and cuisine.

East of Molyvos, if you take the road to the charming location of Eftalou, the birthplace of Eftaliotis, with its crystal clear waters and modern hotel complexes. Climb up the slopes of Mount Lepetymnos, the highest mountain on the island and find yourself in Sikamnia with its quaint cafιs and supurb fishing spots. The chapel of “Panaghia tis gorgonas” will leave a lasting impression on you.

Continuing your journey you’ll reach the eastern side of the island. The road leads to Madamados, a town of rich cultural tradition and expertise in popular handicrafts and earthernware. Mandamados is reknown for its great pilgimage of Taxiarch. The church of Saint Taxiarch is located a short distance from the village on a large block of land bathed in light, olive and pine trees. The icon of the Saint is a relief relic made of an unknown material.

Beautiful beaches in the area are: “Tsonia”, “Aghios Stephanos”, and “Aspropotamos”.

This side of Lesbos island can be accessed by taking the Northern Exit of the town of Mytilene - from Epano Skala - and then travelling along the main artery of the East of Lesvos.

Southeast of Lesvos

This side of the island is where the capital Mytilene and the Gulf of Yera are located. Mytilene has 4 main exits.

The Northern Exit is from Epano Skala - leading to many seaside villages with seafood taverns and picturesque havens such as Panagiouda, Skala Pamfilon and the coast of Thermes. This is the route to take if you wish to visit the Nunery of Aghios Raphael or Mandamados.

If you chose the Southern Exit you’ll soon realise how prosperous this region was in the past, particularly during the last century. Unique manor houses, most of which are well-upkept, lend the town of Mytilene a note of elegance, which is not easily found elsewhere. The coastal zone leads south to the districts of Vareia, Taxiarches (Kayiani), Aghia Marina ; areas covered in olive trees, with many traditional taverns offering visitors pleasant evenings. Moving on down the coastline you’ll reach Vigla, Neapolis, the airport and then Kratigos. The road is lined with restaurants, hotels and havens frequented mainly by the local population who go there for a quick dip in the sea after a day’s work. This is where local surfers , depending on whether winds are prevailing as well as their direction, ride the waves, offering a spectacular show during both summer and winter.

The pine forest begins at Kratigos, where the main artery ends and a dirt road begins this point forward on. However the latter is under construction and so you can keep on going ahead for a bird’s eye view of the mouth of the Gulf of Yera. You can reach Haramida and the captivating cove of Aghios Ermogenis. The salt water virtually caresses the pine tree trunks in this area. If you continue along this road you’ll end up in Loutra and Kountouroudia which are areas that look on the Gulf of Yera. These areas can also be reached by the SW Exit (from the textile factory). In Skala Loutron and Kountouroudia there are a number of coffee shops which also serve fresh fish. You’ll also see a shipyard where small vessels are repaired. The last stop of the urban bus (Mytilene -Koudouria line) is Kountouroudia and from there there are large wooden boats which make the sea-crossing and take passengers to the other side of the Gulf.

If you have enough time try climbing Amali (the mountain rising above the the airport). You’ll get a magnificent bird’s eye view from the forest. We highly recommend this itinerary, particularly during winter if it’s a “good year” and you’re an expert in collecting edible mushrooms !

The NW Exit of Mytilene (from Alysida) is the most important exit since it brings travellers to “the heart” of the island. This is the exit to take if you’re headed in the direction of Yera, Plomari, Agiassos, Vatera, Kalloni, Molyvos or Eressos.

Along the road that leads to Yera, approx. 10 Km out of Mytilene, you’ll reach the Mineral springs of the Gulf of Yera. The Gulf of Yera has been classified amongt the most graphic in the world. It is 7,5 miles long and 2,5 miles wide. One of the most significant wetlands in Greece is found at the Dipi-Larsos site. By driving along a road that cuts through vast olive groves, you’ll reach the other side of the Gulf with its cluster of picturesque Yera villages : Palaiokypos, Papados, Plakados, Skopelos, Mesagros. Don’t forget to go through Evreiaki (with it’s significant tourist development and beautiful beach) and Perama, up to the Towers and even further towards the mouth of the Gulf. At sunset, nature in this area is exceptionally beautiful. Go boating in the calm gulf waters during the evening; the experience will fill you with pleasant memories.

Small quiet beaches outside the gulf are those of “Tarti” and “Aghia Barbara”.

On your way to Plomari you’ll find Aghios Isidoros, a beautiful, long sandy beach. As one would expect, there is great tourist development in this area.

Central and Southern Lesvos

A beautiful, very green side of the island. Olive groves and pines, chestnut, apple and nut trees alternate harmoniously, on the slopes, hillocks and shady valleys. The natural beauty of this port of the island is exceptional, especially during Spring where the trees and flowers are blossoming. With the NW exit as the starting point about 15 km before you reach the intersection which indicates to Yera and Plomari or straight ahead towards Agiassos and Kalloni. Take the road to Yera and enjoy the view of the Gulf as you drive on. You’ll reach the picturesque town of Plomari (40 km) and the charming beach of Aghios Isidoros just outside the town. This area has great tourist development. Modern hotels, quaint coffee shops and original bars along the seafront, create a pleasant environment. Plomari is reknown for its ouzo and this is why it should always accompany your appetizers (mezes).

To the west of Plomari lie “Ammoudeli” and “Melinda” beach, which are excellent for bathing and enjoying a good meal.A fantastic road (10 km) takes you from Plomari to Megalochori - a beautiful mountainous village, which is rightly named “Switzerland” of Lesbos. A further 14 Km of dirt road links Megalochori to Agiassos. It’s worth taking this road full of pines, chestnut, apple, cherry and sour cherry trees whether in Summer or Winter to experience the variety of nature on the island.

The most popular way to get to Agiassos is via the main road artery from Mytilene to the centre of the island, passing through Keramia.

Agiassos is one of the most beautiful, mountainous traditional towns on Lesbos, built on the NE foot of Olympus mountain amidst lush vegetation. Narrow roads, steep cobbled roads. Simple houses which remind you of the by-gone days, with their wooden balconies decorated with a multitude of potted flowers. The town is renown for its Festival of Panaghia (Virgin Mary) on August 15th. So, if fate should bring you to Mytilene on the eve of the festival, try participating in the local customs. Pilgrims arrive in Agiassos by all means of transport. Indeed many arrive from Mytilene or other villages on foot, enjoying the beautiful nights of August along the way.

A pleasant itinerary would be to set off from Mytilene via the Town’s NW exit. At the intersection take the road pointing to Agiassos. Make a stop at Karini, amidst lush vegetation. Enjoy your coffee under the century plane trees with their characteristic hollows. Refresh yourself with the icy cold waters of the area and continue on your way to worship to famous Panaghia of Agiassos.

After that, go back a few kilometres to the crossroads which leads to Polichnitos. Don’t forget to make a stop at the quaint coffee shop in the valley of Aghios (St) Dimitrios and ask for a taste of the traditional pumpkin “kolokithaki” or apple “milaraki” sweet. From this point onward the scenery changes. Pine trees replace olive trees. It’s a pleasant, refreshing trip, and once you cross Lake Minor and Lake Major (nowadays dry) and Vasilika, you’ll reach Polichnitos with its beautiful countryside and seaside looking on to the Gulf of Kalloni. The Gulf is approx. 4 miles and its length is 12 miles. Its anchovies are renown for their sweetness. The Gulf of Kalloni has fine quality shellfish such as “clams”, “cockles” “Noah’s Arcs”. However, the Gulf has been in follows, as a presentative measure taken to protect these species. Nifida and Skala Polichnitos are beautiful beaches which are suitable for swimming and an enjoyable meal. The beaches of Thermes, Piges Polichnitou and Pigi Lisvoriou are also lovely.

From Polichnitos continue on the road to Vrisa until you reach Vatera, with its spotlessly clean sand. Vatera has many summer homes, permanent residences, villas and hotels. Vegetable gardens, vineyards and fruit trees lend a heavenly look to the area. The chapel of Aghios (St) Fokas is located on the west side of the sandy beach. This is where the ancient port lies, the bottom of which is paved with slabs. The central aisle of a palaiochristian Basilica was discovered at the site where the chapel of Aghios Fokas stands today. Marble architectural fixtures of a temple dedicated to Dionysos were found in the walls of the Basilica. Today, there is a small fishing port and quaint coffee shops with fresh fish served daily at the Aghios Fokas location.

The coasts of this side of the island are beautiful, full of craggy rocks as well as spotless sandy beaches. If you have a boat, you’ll enjoy sailing through areas such as Drota - a fishing village with an excellent beach. Make sure you don’t pass by “Kryfi Panaghia” (i.e. Hidden Virgin Mary) without realising it, as it’s very well sheltered.

The West of Lesvos

This side of the island is characterised by its volcanic rocks and aridity in most of the area. There are many beaches, some of which are among the island’s most beautiful. A wonder of nature, the petrified forest of Sigri also lies in this area.

There are two ways to access the west of Lesbos, both of which are interesting. We recommend a combination of the two.

If you decide on Kalloni (40,3 km) as your starting point, once you get to the crossroads take the road to Skalochori, Antissa, Eressos and Sigri.

NW of Kalloni, approximately 5km down the road you’ll encounter Moni Leimonos (the Monastery of Leimon). It is a monastery of special interest for its rich cultural and historical legacy, which is unique on the island. However it should be noted that it is forbidden for women to enter the churches and monasteries in this area.

The road goes on through villages, each one with own special charm : Filia (51 km), Skalochori (58,3 km), Vatousa (66,8 km). When you get to Vatousa, don’t just drive through. Take a walk in the village. Visit its old churches, admire is well-preserved colour.

Then go down to Moni Perivolis, an old monastery (founded in 1600-1650) which lies between Vatousa and Antissa, near the cool waters of a ravine at the bed of Voulgari River. This area is renown for its larks and crystal clear waters. Moving ahead you’ll arrive in Antissa (76,5 km) - the centre of the area. Visit the Square and the graphic haven of Gavatha. The seaside is ideal for swimming or a good catch ; ideal for those who prefer simple, carefree holidays. Ancient Antissa, Kampos and Lapsarna are excellent locations for swimming and relaxation.

At a short distance from Antissa lies the crossroads, which leads to the splendid beach of Eressos and to picturesque Sigri.

Eressos (89,2 km) is the birthplace of the lyric poetess Sappho and the botanist philosopher Theophrastos. Eressos is one of the most remarkable resorts on the island, with its modern town planning, rows of trees and pleasant hot spots along the beach. The beach extends along a coastline of 2,5km, while the tide is nearly always calm because it is not exposed to the etesian winds. During the summer months, this lovely beach takes on a particular look, as holiday-makers from all around the world flock to enjoy their summer vacation.

If you turn back and arrive at the crossroads and take the road to Sigri, be sure to visit the Moni Ypsilou (Monastery of Ypsilos) which sits at the top of Mount Ordimnos, where there once was a dormant volcano during the quarternary period. From up there, if the weather is good, you can see the Sigri area and if there is good visibility even Limnos, Tenedos and Mount Athos can be sighted.

Continuing on the road to Sigri (94 km), you will surely sense that a change is coming. Its usually windy and combined with the bareness of the landscape, conjure up a mixture of feelings. To think that millions of years ago the whole area was covered in lush vegetation and huge centurion trees with a perimeter of 8,5 m. The intense volcanic activity of Mt. Ordimnos led to the creation of this dead city with its petrified plant citizens. You may thus feel the glory of nature even when bare and austere. Follow the sign which points towards the Petrified Forest, and area where many old tree trunks are gathered. They have not lost their magnificence despite the thousands of years that have passed. Try this itinerary early in the morning before the sun becomes extremely hot. It is as if it the sun were trying to transmit as much energy as possible in this area so as to preserve its unique natural beauty.

The moment you lay your eyes on Sigri, you will experience its refreshing beauty. Small, whitewashed houses which are dominant in the town, give you the impression you’re on an other island. It could be said that it resembles a typical Cycladian landscape. However you soon discover that this place is quite different. If you choose to stay in Sigri overnight, rise early in the morning when the locals do and experience the normally relaxed and calm pace of life of the fishing village.

You’ll soon realise that this area is ideal for all types of fishing. Surfers will be thrilled, by the prevailing winds which are particularly suitable for surfing and of a special quality. Be sure to visit the petrified forest on Megalonisi, the islet opposite Sigri. Don’t just settle for the village beach; Visit the beach “Panaghia i Faneromeni” (north) and the beach “ta Limena” (south) or even further. Follow the lower dirt road that leads to Eressos and then go down to the bank of “Tsichlionta” river. Experience the exquisite beauty of the secluded beach, even during August.

Alternatively, you could reach this area in the west of Lesbos is by taking the Kalloni - Agra road (70 km). The road was recently laid and most of it is paved. You can admire the view of the Gulf of Yera as you drive along. Decend to Apothika and stop in the old local coffee shop. Mesotopos (midway between Agra and Eressos) is the next village you’ll encounter. Approx. 4 km from the village lies Tavari, a beautiful seaside location with many houses, rooms to let and busy coffee shops lining the shore. Don’t miss “Podaras” beach which lies East of Tavari, with its fertile plain, while to the west “Chrouso” beach with its golden sand and small plain along the bank of Mallonta River.

If you follow the road from Mesotopos, you’ll soon arrive in Eressos and from there on you can see the rest of the west side of the island.

To learn more about Lesvos Island and to imagine how the life is there watch some of these videos below. After that you will not wait anymore to start plan your holidays in Lesvos Island. More…

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