Lesbos Island: The Hidden Treasure of the Aegean

Lesbos (or Midilli in Turkish), Greece's third-largest island, is a true holiday paradise with its natural beauty, historical fabric, warm-hearted people, and of course, mouth-watering flavors.

How to Get to Lesbos?

Lesbos Island is so close to Turkey, it's practically at your doorstep! You can get to the island in about 1.5 hours by taking the ferries from Ayvalik, which can be booked through the website www.marmarisferry.com. During the summer months, ferry services become more frequent. Ticket prices are quite reasonable, ranging from 30 to 40 Euros, and there are usually round-trip deals available. You can set off early in the morning and find yourself at the port of Lesbos after breakfast.

First Discovery: Mytilene – The Vibrant Heart of the Island

As soon as the ferry docks, Mytilene welcomes you. This is the busiest part of the island; colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and the pleasant scent of the sea in the air… Don’t forget to stop by one of the cafes along the port for a Greek coffee or frappe. One of the city’s landmarks, the Agios Therapon Church, dazzles with its domed architecture. Right next to it is a statue of liberty and a charming market filled with shops. If you want to shop, local soaps, olive oil, and handmade ceramics make for great souvenirs.

For those who want a bit of history, I recommend Mytilene Castle. This magnificent castle holds traces from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. While watching the Aegean Sea from the castle walls, you’ll feel like a time traveler. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the concerts held here during the summer!

Meeting Nature: The Magic of Petra and Molivos

To understand that Lesbos is not limited to just the city, you need to head towards the north of the island. The first stop is Petra! This small village attracts visitors with its tranquility and nature. On the shores of the sea, there’s a huge rock formation (on top of which is the Panagia Glykofilousa Church). Yes, climbing 114 steps might be a bit tiring, but the view from the top is worth it. The sea, olive trees, and village houses… Keep your phones ready for pictures!

Five kilometers further from Petra is Molivos (also known as Mithymna). It’s like an open-air museum! Narrow streets, stone houses, cobbled paths, and blooming bougainvilleas at every corner… Molivos Castle greets the Aegean from the top of the village. Going up here at sunset and enjoying a glass of ouzo against the horizon will be one of the unforgettable moments of your Lesbos holiday. Also, the beaches in Molivos are pristine; with its shallow and clear waters, it’s perfect for both swimming and relaxing.

History and Nature Combined: Skala Kallonis and the Salt Lakes

Shall we head south of Lesbos? Skala Kallonis is one of the most peaceful corners of the island. This area is a paradise, especially for bird watchers. The salt lakes in Kalloni Bay are home to flamingos, pelicans, and hundreds of bird species. Spring and autumn are the best times to see migratory birds. Don’t forget to bring binoculars! In the small fishing taverns in the region, you can also try grilled sardines and octopus. Did you know that Lesbos is known as the “sardine capital”? The fish you eat here has a unique taste that can’t be found anywhere else.

A Feast of Flavors: Ouzo, Olive Oil, and More

You can’t visit Lesbos without talking about its food! The island is one of Greece’s leading areas in ouzo production. You can visit factories of brands like Barbayanni or Plomari to see how ouzo is made and even do a tasting. Along with it, enjoy fresh seafood: calamari, octopus, mussels… They’re so delicious that one plate is never enough. Olive oil here is practically an art; Lesbos’ olive groves are under UNESCO protection. A bottle of local olive oil from the markets will bring the spirit of the Aegean into your kitchen.

For sweet lovers, I recommend saganaki made with ladotyri cheese and honey almond desserts. You’ll feel the warmth of Lesbos in every bite.

Thermal Waters and Healing: Eftalou and Gera

Lesbos is also famous for its thermal waters. In Eftalou, there are natural hot springs right next to the sea. The water temperature ranges from 40 to 45 degrees Celsius, and it’s said to be good for many things, from rheumatism to skin diseases. On one side, you have thermal water, and on the other side, the cool Aegean Sea. In the Gera Bay, you can also find both thermal waters and a peaceful atmosphere. This is one of the island’s less discovered areas, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

What to Buy from Lesbos?

You wouldn’t want to return with an empty suitcase, so here’s what to add to your shopping list: ouzo, olive oil, and olive oil soaps. You can also find handmade ceramics, woven rugs, and herbs and teas made from island plants in local markets.

Lesbos Island is a true treasure for those seeking history, nature, and flavor. Its proximity to Turkey and its offering of an entirely different world make it its biggest advantage.