During the summer (May-September), two weekly İzmir-Lesbos Ferry boats operate between İzmir-Alsancak (Tūrkiye) and Lesbos-Mytilene (Greece) ports, a distance of 64 nautical miles (120km). Tickets for the Lesbos ferry can be purchased online from the İzdeniz A.Ş. ticket office. In 2024, the first sailing was on 3 May, and the final sailing was on 27 September. In 2024, there were two sailings per week.
The schedule for 2025 has only one sailing per week from İzmir-Alsancak on Fridays, and return from Lesbos-Mytilene on Sundays. The final 2025 sailings are 26 September from İzmir-Alsancak and 28 September from Lesbos-Mytilene.
İzmir-Lesbos Ferry – Table of Contents
Getting to Lesbos
Reaching Lesbos from Türkiye is easiest via the ferry routes from Ayvalık and, seasonally, from İzmir. The most frequent connection is the Ayvalık–Mytilene route, which operates year-round, with additional sailings in the summer months. The crossing takes about 90 minutes on high-speed catamarans and just over two hours on conventional ferries, arriving at the port of Mytilene, the island’s capital. Turkish and Greek operators run this route, and ticket prices usually include both passenger and limited vehicle options. Ayvalık’s ferry terminal is in the town centre, a short walk from hotels, restaurants, and the old bazaar.
From İzmir, there is no direct year-round ferry to Lesbos, but in recent years, seasonal services have operated in summer, from İzmir’s Alsancak Port to Mytilene. These summer sailings are less frequent, currently only once a week, and take around 3 hours depending on the vessel and sea conditions. Both routes require a valid passport and adherence to Schengen entry requirements, as Lesbos is part of Greece. Whether departing from bustling İzmir or the smaller, scenic port of Ayvalık, the ferry journey offers a relaxed introduction to the island, with views of the Aegean coast and the mountainous silhouette of Lesbos appearing on the horizon.
İzmir-Lesbos Ferry Sailing Days & Times
The ferry to Lesbos is operated in Tūrkiye by Izdeniz A.Ş., which is affiliated with Izmir Metropolitan Municipality from the Alsancak Cruise Port at Umurbey, İzmir Limanı, 35230 Konak/İzmir.
| Route | Days | Departure | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| İzmir-Lesbos | Friday | 08:30 | 165 minutes |
| Lesbos-İzmir | Sunday | 17:00* | 165 minutes |
*Central European Time (in the Summer)
Approximate ticket prices are TL, equivalent to €60 one-way and €85 round trip, with a 50% discount for children.
İzmir-Lesbos Ferry Ship
The route uses the passenger ship Prof. Dr Aziz Sancar. The Prof. Dr Aziz Sancar’s overall length is 40 metres and width 12 metres, its International Maritime Organisation (IMO) code is 9799599. The ship is for passengers only and does not carry vehicles.
Lesbos Entry Requirements
Citizens of countries within the Schengen Area and certain other countries with visa-waiver agreements with the European Union can enter Greece for short stays without a visa. Otherwise, upon entry to Mytilene, a valid passport (not older than ten years and three months remaining) with a Schengen or gate visa validity must be available.
Under the new visa rules, Turkish citizens can now obtain a simplified, short-term visa specifically for visiting certain Greek islands, including Samos, Chios and Lesbos. This “visa express” program allows stays of up to 7 days, streamlining the process compared to a standard Schengen visa. Key requirements include advance submission of an application (often through authorised travel agencies or online platforms), providing necessary documents like a valid passport and proof of accommodation, and paying a visa fee. It’s important to note that this visa is valid only for the designated Greek islands and cannot be used for travel to other Schengen countries, and that having a TRNC entry stamp in a passport can cause denial of the visa.
About Lesbos
Lesbos Geography
Lesbos, also known as Lesvos, is the third-largest Greek island, covering an area of approximately 1,630 square kilometres. The island is characterised by a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, and fertile plains. The highest peak is Mount Lepetymnos, which rises to an elevation of about 968 meters. Lesbos is known for its extensive coastline, which features numerous bays, beaches, and natural harbours.
Lesbos History
Lesbos was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age. It became an important cultural and commercial centre in the Aegean in antiquity. The island was known for its poets, including Sappho and Alcaeus, and its intellectual contributions to Greek culture. During the classical period, Lesbos was a member of the Delian League, led by Athens, but later revolted against Athenian control. It came under the rule of various powers, including the Persian Empire and, later, the Macedonian Empire under Alexander the Great. Lesbos became part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. It experienced relative peace and prosperity during these periods, with Christianity becoming the dominant religion. In the 15th century, Lesbos was conquered by the Ottoman Turks and remained under Ottoman control until the early 20th century. Lesbos was incorporated into the modern Greek state in 1912 during the First Balkan War.
Top Places to Visit on Lesbos
The island is home to the Petrified Forest of Lesbos, a unique geological phenomenon where ancient trees have turned to stone. This forest is around 20 million years old and is protected as a natural monument. Lesbos is famous for its numerous thermal springs, which have been used for their therapeutic properties since ancient times. The most notable hot springs are located in the areas of Eftalou, Therma, and Polichnitos. The Island is renowned for producing some of Greece’s best ouzo, a traditional anise-flavored alcoholic beverage. The town of Plomari is particularly famous for its ouzo distilleries. Lesbos is a popular destination for birdwatchers due to its diverse bird population, especially during the migratory seasons. The wetlands of Kalloni are particularly noted for their avian biodiversity.
1 – Mytilene
The port of Mytilene is the lively maritime heart of Lesbos, curving around a sheltered bay in the island’s capital. Ferries from mainland Greece and Türkiye dock here alongside fishing boats and private yachts, creating a vibrant waterfront scene. Lined with neoclassical mansions, cafés, ouzo bars, and seafood restaurants, it’s a perfect place to watch harbour life unfold over a coffee or meze platter. The seafront promenade stretches towards the castle at one end and the marina at the other, with easy access to shops, banks, and car rentals.
1a – Castle of Mytilene
Location: Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-15:30 Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesday
Dominating the northern edge of the town, the Castle of Mytilene is one of the most extensive fortifications in the Mediterranean, with origins in Byzantine times and later expansions by the Genoese and Ottomans. Built on a strategic hilltop between two natural harbours, it offers panoramic views over the Aegean and the city below. Visitors can explore its massive stone walls, towers, and hidden passages, as well as remnants of ancient cisterns and Ottoman-era barracks. In summer, the castle becomes a venue for concerts and cultural events, adding life to its centuries-old stones.
1b – Ancient Theatre of Mytilene
Location: Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-15:30 Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesday
Located on the hill of Agia Kyriaki, the Ancient Theatre of Mytilene dates back to the 3rd century BC and was once among the largest theatres in the Greek world, said to have impressed even the Roman orator Cicero. Though partly in ruins, its semi-circular seating area and panoramic backdrop of the harbour remain striking. Restoration work is ongoing, but visitors can still appreciate the site’s scale, its clever use of the hillside for acoustics, and the sense of drama it would have offered ancient audiences.
1c – Archaeological Museum of Mytilene
Location: Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Μυτιλήνης, Skra 26, Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-15:30 Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesday
The Archaeological Museum of Mytilene is split between two buildings, one housing prehistoric and Archaic finds, the other dedicated to Hellenistic and Roman artefacts. Highlights include exquisite mosaics from lavish villas, marble statues, and pottery dating back to the island’s earliest settlements. The museum provides a straightforward narrative of Lesbos’ role as a cultural crossroads, from its Mycenaean connections to its flourishing during Roman rule.
1d – Byzantine Museum
Location: Arionos 1, Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: 09:00-13:00 Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday
Situated near the cathedral, the Byzantine Museum of Mytilene is housed in a neoclassical mansion and showcases religious art from the post-Byzantine period to the 19th century. Its collection includes intricately carved wooden iconostases, richly painted icons, ecclesiastical vestments, and manuscripts. The museum offers insight into the island’s spiritual life and artistic traditions under both Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
1e – Yeni Mosque in Mytilene
Location: Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: TBC.
The Yeni Mosque (“New Mosque”) is a striking Ottoman monument built in 1825 to serve the Muslim community of Mytilene. Located in the Epano Skala district, its design blends classical Ottoman features, such as a large central dome and elegant minaret, with local stonework. Though no longer used for worship, the mosque has been restored and occasionally hosts cultural exhibitions, offering visitors a glimpse into Lesbos’ multicultural past.
1f – Mansion Halim Bey – Municipal Gallery of Mytilini
Location: Agramitiou 46, Mitilini 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-14:30 Monday-Friday, closed Saturday & Sunday
The Halim Bey Mansion is one of Mytilene’s finest examples of late 19th-century neoclassical architecture, reflecting the prosperity of the city’s Ottoman-era merchants. Its grand façade, ornate balconies, and decorative interiors speak of a cosmopolitan elite that traded across the Aegean. Today, the restored mansion is open to visitors as part of the Lesvos National History Museum, allowing them to step into the refined domestic world of Mytilene’s past.
2 – Roman Aqueduct at Moria
Location: Lesvos 811 00, Greece. Opening hours: Always open.
Just outside Mytilene, the Roman Aqueduct at Moria is an impressive 3rd-century AD engineering marvel built to supply water to the ancient city from springs 26 km away. Constructed of massive stone arches and brick, its surviving 170-metre-long section rises over 25 metres high. Surrounded by olive groves, it’s a peaceful spot to appreciate both Roman ingenuity and the pastoral beauty of Lesbos.
3 – The Ouzo Museums at Plomari
Plomari has long been known as the homeland of ouzo, with the craft beginning in the 19th century, primarily driven by merchant families from Asia Minor, who applied their distilling know‑how to local ingredients and traditions. The region benefits from exceptional raw materials, notably the famed Lisvori anise (grown around the village of Lisvori, near the Gulf of Kalloni), considered among the finest in the world, fertile lands rich in aromatic botanicals, and pure water; essential ingredients for high‑quality distillation. Moreover, Plomari’s strategic coastal location and maritime heritage enabled early and robust trade, making it an ideal export hub for ouzo to markets like Istanbul and throughout Europe. The reputation grew to the point that “Plomari Ouzo” has attained Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in the EU, underscoring its unique identity and top-tier quality.
3a – Ouzo Museum: The World of Ouzo
Location: Θέση Κάμπος Πλαγιάς, 812 00, Greece. Opening hours: 10:00-14:00 Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sunday & Monday.
Located in a lush olive grove just outside Plomari, this immersive museum brings to life over 130 years of ouzo-making tradition. Set in the original site where Isidoros Arvanitis began distilling in 1894, visitors are guided through the historic and modern production process, including the renowned 18 handmade copper stills still in use today. You can touch and smell locally sourced herbs like Lisvori anise, view archival artefacts and tools, and enjoy tasting sessions that engage all the senses. The guided tours, complete with authentic stories and visual exhibits, create a memorable sensory journey into the craft and legacy of Plomari ouzo.
3b – Greek Ouzo “Varvayannis” Museum (Barbayanni Ouzo Museum)
Location: 5km Plomariou Mytilinis, Plomari, Lesvos Island 812 00, Greece Opening hours: 09:30-16:00 Monday-Friday, 10:00-14:00 Saturday, closed Sunday.
This museum, located just off the road from Plomari toward Agios Isidoros, celebrates the 164-year history of the Varvayannis family’s ouzo-making tradition. It houses original distillation and bottling equipment, most notably the first alembic from Constantinople circa 1858, alongside labelling machinery and historical implements that showcase the evolution of their craft. Visitors can enjoy audio-visual presentations in Greek and English, and experience ouzo tasting in a setting that blends tradition with modern visitor comforts. Admission is free, and tours run frequently during opening hours.
4 – Ancient Temple of Messon
Location: Lesvos, North Aegean, 81100, Greece, 811 02, Greece. Opening hours: 08:00-10:00 Monday-Friday, closed Saturday & Sunday
Located in the island’s centre near modern-day Agia Paraskevi, the Ancient Temple of Messon was once a major sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera and other deities. Dating back to the 3rd century B.C., it was an important religious and cultural gathering place for the people of Lesbos. Visitors can explore its large stone foundations and imagine the festivals and assemblies that once brought the island’s communities together.
5 – Birdwatching on the Kalloni Salt Pans
Location: Kalloni, Greece. Opening hours: Always open.
The Kalloni Gulf is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially in spring and autumn when thousands of migratory species pass through. The salt pans attract flamingos, herons, avocets, and rare species like the black stork, offering fantastic opportunities for photography. Several observation points and quiet lanes around the pans make it easy to spend a peaceful morning or afternoon immersed in nature.
6 – Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production in Greece
Location: Epar.Od.Arisvis-Mantamadou, Politechniou, Ag. Paraskevi 811 02, Greece. Opening hours: 10:00-18:00 Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesday
The Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production in Greece, located in the village of Agia Paraskevi on Lesbos, is housed in a beautifully restored early 20th-century steam-powered olive press. Operated by the Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation, the museum traces the transformation of olive oil production from traditional stone mills to mechanised industry, using original machinery, archival photographs, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can see massive pressing equipment in situ, learn about the agricultural and social history of olive cultivation in Lesbos, and explore how olive oil shaped the island’s economy and culture. The building itself, with its brick facades and tall chimney, is a fine example of industrial architecture, making the museum both a cultural and historical landmark.
7 – Monastery of Saint Ignatios (Limonos Monastery)
Location: Lera Moni Limonos 811 07, Greece. Opening hours: 08:00-20:00 daily.
Founded in 1526, the Monastery of Saint Ignatios is one of Lesbos’ most significant religious sites, nestled in the hills near Kalloni. Its sprawling complex includes courtyards, chapels, and a library with over 5,000 rare manuscripts and books. Visitors are welcomed into a serene atmosphere, where icons, frescoes, and the peaceful rural setting create a sense of timeless devotion.
8 – Village of Petra
Location: Petra, 811 09 Greece.
Petra is a postcard-perfect coastal village with stone houses, a golden sandy beach, and a relaxed yet lively charm. Narrow streets lead from the waterfront to craft shops, tavernas, and the iconic rocky outcrop topped by a church, all under the gaze of surrounding green hills. It’s a place that invites slow exploration and sunset strolls along the shore.
8a. Petra Church (Panagia Glykofilousa)
Location: Petra 811 09, Greece. Opening hours: 08:00-22:00 daily.
Perched atop a massive rock in the heart of Petra, the Church of Panagia Glykofilousa (“Our Lady of the Sweet Kiss”) is reached via 114 stone steps. The climb rewards visitors with panoramic views over the village and bay, as well as a tranquil 18th-century interior adorned with icons and candlelight. It’s both a spiritual site and a scenic highlight.
8b. Glass Bottom Boat in Petra
Location: Petra 811 09, Greece. Opening hours: TBC
Departing from Petra’s small harbour, glass bottom boat tours offer a leisurely way to discover Lesbos’ crystal-clear waters and marine life. Passengers can watch fish and underwater landscapes through large viewing panels, while also enjoying views of the rugged coastline. Some cruises include stops for swimming and snorkeling in hidden coves.
9 – Molyvos (Mithymna)
Location: Mithymna, Greece.
Molyvos (aka Mithymna) is one of Greece’s most beautiful towns, with a maze of cobbled streets winding up to a hilltop castle. Its stone houses, draped in bougainvillaea, overlook a picturesque harbour lined with seafood tavernas. The combination of medieval charm, vibrant cultural life, and easy access to the beach makes Molyvos a must-see.
9a. Byzantine Castle of Molyvos
Location: Mithymna 811 08, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-20:00 Wednesday-Monday, 08:30-19:30 Sunday, closed Tuesday.
The Castle of Molyvos crowns the town and offers commanding views of the Aegean and the Turkish coast. Built by the Byzantines and expanded by the Genoese and Ottomans, it features thick walls, towers, and arched gateways. In summer, it hosts concerts and theatre performances, adding to its appeal as both a historical and cultural landmark.
9b. Glass Bottom Boat in Molyvos
Location: Harbour of Molivos, Mithimna 811 08, Greece. Opening hours: TBC
Similar to Petra, Molyvos offers glass-bottom boat excursions, often combined with scenic cruises along the north coast. Guests can admire underwater life, rocky reefs, and sea caves while enjoying the changing views of the town’s terraced rooftops and castle. Some tours also include local snacks or drinks on board.
10 – Archaeological Collection of Eressos
Location: Skala Eresou 811 05, Greece. Opening hours: 08:30-15:30 Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesday
This small but fascinating museum in Eressos houses artifacts from the ancient city, including pottery, inscriptions, and everyday objects. Displays trace the area’s history from prehistoric times through the Classical and Roman eras, offering context for the ruins scattered across the surrounding countryside.
11 – Petrified Forest in Sigri
Location: Sigri, 811 03, Greece. Opening hours: 08:00-16:00 Daily.
The Petrified Forest of Lesbos is a UNESCO Global Geopark, preserving the fossilised remains of a subtropical forest that thrived 20 million years ago. Scattered across the landscape are massive tree trunks turned to stone, their growth rings still visible. Walking trails and open-air exhibits allow visitors to marvel at this rare geological wonder.
12 – Natural History Museum in Sigri
Location: Epar.Od. Antissa-Sigri 5, Antissa 811 05, Greece. Opening hours: 08:00-16:00 Daily.
Serving as the gateway to the Petrified Forest, the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest offers interactive exhibits on geology, palaeontology, and volcanic activity. Highlights include fossilised plant specimens, reconstructions of ancient ecosystems, and educational films. It’s an essential stop before or after exploring the outdoor fossil sites, giving more profound insight into how this prehistoric world was preserved.
The Top Beaches of Lesbos
Below is a description of a selection of the Top 10 Beaches in Lesbos with their map locations:
1. Agios Isidoros – Located near Plomari, Agios Isidoros is a long, Blue Flag pebble-and-sand beach with exceptionally clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Lined with cafés, tavernas, and sunbeds, it’s well-organised but not overcrowded. Its orientation shelters it from strong winds, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed swim with easy access to Plomari’s ouzo bars.
2. Skala Eressos – On the island’s southwest coast, Skala Eressos is famous for its 3 km stretch of soft sand, gentle shelving into turquoise water, and bohemian atmosphere. Wooden boardwalks connect beach cafés and bars, many with over-water decking. The area has long been a cultural hub, associated with the poet Sappho, and attracts both locals and international visitors for its sunsets and laid-back vibe.
3. Vatera – Stretching for an impressive 8 km, Vatera is one of Greece’s longest beaches, with fine golden sand and warm, shallow waters. Despite its size, it remains peaceful, with a scattering of traditional fish tavernas and small hotels. The surrounding countryside hides fossil-rich hills, while the sheer length of the beach ensures there’s always a quiet spot away from the summer crowds.
4. Molyvos Beach – Nestled beneath the stone-built village and medieval castle of Molyvos, this beach blends natural beauty with cultural charm. It has a mix of pebbles and coarse sand, with clear waters perfect for swimming. Several family-run tavernas and bars line the waterfront, and the gentle slope into the sea makes it a safe choice for families. The castle view adds a unique backdrop to a relaxing swim.
5. Anaxos – Just west of Petra, Anaxos Beach is a sheltered sandy bay with shallow, calm waters ideal for children and novice swimmers. A small cluster of beach bars, tavernas, and rental facilities for kayaks and pedal boats complements its relaxed atmosphere. The surrounding hills create a scenic frame, making it a favourite for sunset photography.
6. Petra Beach – Right at the edge of the charming town of Petra, this sandy stretch offers easy access to cafés, restaurants, and shops while retaining a laid-back feel. The beach is organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, and its shallow entry into the sea makes it ideal for long, leisurely swims. From the sand, visitors can spot the iconic church of Panagia Glykofilousa perched atop its rocky hill.
7. Agios Ermogenis – A hidden gem on the island’s south coast, Agios Ermogenis is a small, horseshoe-shaped cove with aquamarine waters and a backdrop of pine-covered hills. A tiny chapel sits at the water’s edge, adding to its postcard charm. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet escape, with one or two tavernas serving fresh seafood steps from the sea.
8. Charamida – A popular choice for both locals and tourists near Mytilene, Charamida offers a mix of sand and fine pebbles with crystal-clear waters. Fully organised with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports facilities, it’s a lively spot during summer weekends. Its sheltered bay makes for calm swimming, and its proximity to the capital means it’s easy to combine with a day of sightseeing.
9. Tsonia – Located on the island’s northeastern coast, Tsonia is prized for its reddish-gold sand and tranquil setting. It’s less developed than other top beaches, with only a couple of tavernas, giving it a peaceful, away-from-it-all feel. The waters are exceptionally clear, ideal for snorkelling, and the surrounding hillsides provide a scenic, unspoiled backdrop.
10. Tarti – On the southeastern coast, Tarti is a small, crescent-shaped bay with bright turquoise waters and soft sand. Fully serviced with sunbeds and a handful of tavernas, it has a relaxed atmosphere that makes it popular with families. The surrounding green hills and rocky outcrops add to its charm, and it’s also known for having some of the clearest swimming water on the island.
Organised Activities on Lesbos
Sea, Sun and Swimming Cruise from Mytilene
This day cruise departs from the main harbour in Mytilene at 10:00 and takes you along Lesbos’s scenic southeastern coastline. The route passes secluded coves, beaches, and rocky outcrops, with several stops for swimming and snorkelling in clear Aegean waters. The boat is equipped with shaded seating and an open deck for sunbathing, making it suitable for both those who want to relax and those looking for more active water time. All necessary swimming and snorkelling equipment is provided on board.
A freshly prepared lunch is served during the cruise, featuring Greek-style grilled dishes, salads, and refreshments such as wine or soft drinks. The relaxed schedule allows time to enjoy each stop before moving on, and the crew provides local information about the coastline and its history. The boat returns to Mytilene in the late afternoon, making this trip an easy option for anyone staying in or near the city who wants a full day at sea without additional travel to another port. The trip is priced (as of August 2025) at €47 per person and includes all necessary equipment. Bookings can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure without charge.
To check for availability and make reservations via GetYourGuide on the Sea, Sun and Swimming Cruise from Mytilene, scan the QR code or click here.
From Petra or Molyvos: Lesbos Cruise with BBQ
The “Lesbos Cruise with BBQ” is a full-day (approx. 7 hours) boat trip that departs from Petra port at about 09:30 or Molyvos port at about 10:00. The cruise follows the island’s northern coastline, passing cliffs, small coves, and clear blue waters. During the journey, there are planned swimming and snorkelling stops where you can enter the water directly from the boat. The trip is suitable for all ages, with life jackets and buoyancy aids provided.
A barbecue lunch is served on board and typically includes grilled souvlaki, potatoes, Greek salad with feta, tzatziki, and a drink such as wine or a soft drink. After lunch, the boat makes its way back along the same route, with time to relax on deck or enjoy another swim if conditions allow. The cruise returns to the starting port by around 16:30. The trip is priced (as of August 2025) at €78 per person and includes all necessary equipment, and bookings can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure without charge.
To check for availability and make reservations via GetYourGuide on the Lesbos Cruise with BBQ from Petra or Molyvos, scan the QR code or click here.
Getting Around Lesbos
Getting around Lesbos is relatively straightforward, with options ranging from budget-friendly public buses to convenient taxis and flexible car hire. Public transport connects most major towns and some villages, while taxis provide a quicker, door-to-door service, especially in more remote areas. For visitors wanting maximum independence to explore the island’s beaches, mountain villages, and archaeological sites, car hire is widely available with many car hire offices close to the Port at Mytilini.
Public Transportation in Lesbos
Lesbos has a network of KTEL intercity buses that link the capital Mytilene with major towns such as Molyvos (Mithymna), Petra, Plomari, Kalloni, and Eressos. Services are more frequent in summer but can be limited during the off-season, with many routes operating only a few times per day. Tickets are inexpensive, usually just a few euros for shorter routes and around €8–€12 for longer journeys. Schedules are generally reliable, but it’s advisable to check times in advance, as evening services are rare and some rural villages have limited or no bus connections.
Taxis in Lesbos
Taxis are available in all main towns, with ranks at Mytilene port, the airport, and central squares in larger settlements like Petra, Molyvos, and Plomari. They can also be booked by phone through local taxi companies. While more expensive than buses, they help reach out-of-the-way beaches or make early-morning/late-night connections. Fares start at around €4–€5 for short trips within towns and can range from €30–€50 for longer transfers (e.g., Mytilene Airport to Petra or Molyvos). Taxis generally operate with meters, but for long distances, it’s common to agree on a fixed price in advance.
Car Hire in Lesbos
Car rental is one of the most practical ways to explore Lesbos, especially if you want to visit multiple beaches, mountain villages, or archaeological sites in a single day. International and local car hire companies operate in Mytilene (including the airport) and in tourist towns like Petra, Molyvos, and Plomari. Prices vary by season and vehicle type. For a small car, you can expect to pay around €35–€50 per day, up to €100+ on weekends during high seasons and holidays. Driving on Lesbos is straightforward, with generally quiet roads outside of Mytilene, but some rural routes are narrow and winding. A valid EU or international driving licence is required, and booking in advance during peak season is highly recommended, as cars are often sold out.
The link below shows availability and prices for car rental on the island via the DiscoverCar comparison and reservation site. If arriving at the port, be sure to choose cars “Port of Mytilini” or “Mytilini Downtown” pick-up location:
Where to Stay in Lesbos
Lesbos offers a wide range of accommodation to suit different budgets and travel styles, from modern city hotels and boutique guesthouses to beachfront resorts, self-catering apartments, and traditional stone-built inns. In Mytilini, the island’s capital, visitors will find a concentration of business-style hotels, heritage properties in restored neoclassical buildings, and budget-friendly hostels, making it a practical base for those arriving by ferry or flight and wanting quick access to cultural sites, restaurants, and nightlife. Outside the capital, accommodation options become more varied and often more scenic, with small family-run hotels, seaside villas, and rural agritourism stays offering a more relaxed, immersive island experience.
The highest concentration of quality hotels outside Mytilini is in Molyvos (Mithymna), Petra, Plomari, and Skala Eressos. Molyvos combines traditional stone architecture with boutique accommodation, many with castle or sea views. Petra offers a long sandy beach lined with mid-range and upper-end hotels, plus holiday apartments ideal for families. Plomari, the ouzo capital, has upscale beachfront hotels and stylish guesthouses, especially around Agios Isidoros. Skala Eressos is known for its charming seafront lodgings, some with a bohemian, artsy atmosphere, appealing to a cosmopolitan crowd.
Below is a sample of the highest rated hotels in the destinations highlighted above:
Mytilene Town Centre – Theofilos Paradise Boutique Hotel
Location: Πάρκο Χατζηδήμου, Skra 7, Mitilini 811 31, Greece
The Theofilos Paradise Boutique Hotel is a charming 4-star property with 24 rooms and an outdoor swimming pool, set in a restored neoclassical mansion in the heart of Mytilene, just steps from the harbour, shops, and cafés. Blending traditional architecture with modern comforts, it offers elegant rooms and suites featuring wood floors, rich fabrics, and contemporary amenities. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool with panoramic views over the city and port, a cosy lounge, and a daily breakfast showcasing local products. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Mytilene’s historical sites, museums, and lively waterfront on foot, while its intimate atmosphere appeals to travellers seeking both comfort and character.
Rated on Booking at 9.1/10 “Superb” and on TripAdvisor at 4.6/5 “#1 Best Value of 68 places to stay in Mytilene” (as of August 2025). To check for availability and make reservations via Booking.com for the Theofilos Paradise Boutique Hotel, Mytilene, scan the QR code or click here.
Molyvos (Mithymna) – Olive Press Hotel & Apartments
Location: Molivos Beach, Mithimna 811 08, Greece
The Olive Press Hotel & Apartments is a well-regarded 3-star beachfront aparthotel in Molyvos, uniquely housed in a converted olive-press building steps from the sea and surrounded by gardens. Featuring 69 air‑conditioned rooms with sea, mountain, or garden views, the property includes a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, an on‑site restaurant (Elia Restaurant), a bar, free Wi‑Fi, and free parking. It also offers pet‑friendly accommodation, water sports and bike rentals, and a tranquil terrace for relaxation.
Rated on Booking at 8.0/10 “Very Good” and on TripAdvisor at 4.2/5 “#1 small hotel in Mithimna” (as of August 2025). To check for availability and make reservations via Booking.com for the Olive Press Hotel & Apartments, Mithimna, scan the QR code or click here.
Petra – Alma Luxury Resort Hotel
Location: Petra 811 00, Greece
Nestled on a gentle hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea and the charming village of Petra, the mid-sized Alma Luxury Resort Hotel is a 4-star property that blends comfort and scenic beauty. The hotel boasts a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a separate children’s pool, a pool bar, tennis court, playground, restaurant, café/bar, and free private parking, all set within lush garden surroundings offering expansive views.
On TripAdvisor, it ranks among the top-value hotels in Lesbos, with a rating of 4.4/5 from over a hundred reviews.
Rated on Booking at 9.0/10 “Superb” and on TripAdvisor at 4.4/5 “#1 Best Value of 73 places to stay in Petra” (as of August 2025). To check for availability and make reservations via Booking.com for the Alma Hotel, Petra, scan the QR code or click here.
Plomari – Porto Plomari
Location: 5o χλμ, Epar.Od. Mitilinis-Skopelou, Plomari 812 00, Greece
The Porto Plomari Hotel is a luxurious 5‑star retreat located on the beachfront of Plomari, offering 48 elegantly designed rooms with sea views and direct access, or within close walking distance to Agios Isidoros Beach. The hotel features a serene outdoor swimming pool, a private beach area, and upscale wellness amenities including a spa and fitness centre, all set within lush garden surroundings.
Rated on Booking at 9.4/10 “Superb” and on TripAdvisor at 4.5/5 ” (as of August 2025). To check for availability and make reservations via Booking.com for the Porto Plomari, Plomari, scan the QR code or click here.
Skala Eressos – Hotel Kyma
Location: Skala Eresou 811 05, Greece
The Hotel Kyma is a charming, family-run 2-star boutique hotel nestled directly on the seafront in Skala Eressos, steps from the beach and close to cafes, shops, and tavernas. The hotel consists of 10 rooms across two floors, with seven offering sea views and three overlooking the land. Each room is equipped with modern comforts, including air-conditioning, an en suite shower, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, Wi-Fi, and private balconies in selected rooms. Facilities include a shared lounge and terrace, an on-site restaurant with room service, bike rentals, and airport shuttle options.
Rated on Booking at 9.7/10 “Exceptional” and on TripAdvisor at 4.7/5 ” (as of August 2025). To check for availability and make reservations via Booking.com for the Hotel Kyma, Skala Eressos, scan the QR code or click here.
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Municipality of Western Lesvos – English Website
Greek National Tourism Organisation: Visit Greece – The Island of Lesvos – English Website
See also – LikeCesme.com – Çeşme-Chios Ferry