Holiday in Lesbos
Island in Greece — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇬🇷
Country
Greece
Type
Island
Best time to travel
May to October, birdwatching best in April/May, Ouzo Festival in July
Budget/day
80-130 € (good hotel, restaurants)
Getting there from Germany
Direct flight in summer about 3 hours, otherwise via Athens with connecting flight or ferry
Deals for Lesbos:
What makes Lesbos special as a destination?
Lesbos is the third largest island in Greece and a fascinating travel destination off the beaten tourist paths. The island in the northeastern Aegean surprises with a diversity of landscapes that is unmatched: from the petrified forests of Sigri, which are among the most significant geological monuments in Europe, to the hot springs of Polichnitos, and the endless olive groves that transform the hinterland into a silver-green sea. Over eleven million olive trees grow on Lesbos – the island is one of the most important olive oil producers in the Mediterranean region. The capital Mytilini welcomes visitors with a lively harbor promenade, neoclassical mansions, and a powerful Byzantine fortress. The picturesque fishing village of Molyvos in the north, dominated by a medieval castle, is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Greece. Skala Eressos on the west coast delights with a long sandy beach and an alternative atmosphere. Lesbos is also the home of Ouzo – the distilleries of Plomari produce the best aniseed spirit in Greece, and a tasting tour is a must-do. For birdwatchers, Lesbos is a paradise: the salt pans near Kalloni attract thousands of flamingos and rare migratory birds in spring. The island's thermal springs, including the hottest in Europe at Polichnitos at 87°C, offer natural wellness since ancient times. From Germany, Lesbos can be reached by direct flight in summer in about three hours or via Athens. A rental car is highly recommended as the island is extensive and the most beautiful spots are scattered.
What are the top highlights in Lesbos?
The top highlights in Lesbos include Petrified Forest of Sigri, Molyvos (Mithymna), Ouzo Distilleries Plomari, Hot Springs of Polichnitos, Kalloni Salt Pans.
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Petrified Forest of Sigri
UNESCO Geopark with 20 million-year-old petrified tree trunks – unique in Europe
Molyvos (Mithymna)
Picture-book village with cobblestone streets, medieval castle, and picturesque fishing harbor
Ouzo Distilleries Plomari
Home of the Greek national drink with tasting tours through traditional distilleries
Hot Springs of Polichnitos
The hottest thermal springs in Europe (87°C) with natural bathing pools and healing properties
Kalloni Salt Pans
Birdwatching hotspot with flamingos, herons, and over 300 bird species in spring
Skala Eressos
Long sandy beach on the west coast with a relaxed atmosphere and spectacular sunsets
Hotels in Lesbos
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Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
When is the best time to visit Lesbos?
The best time to visit Lesbos is May to October, birdwatching best in April/May, Ouzo Festival in July. Hot and dry, 28-35°C, Meltemi wind provides pleasant cooling In winter: Mild, 8-14°C, rainy, many accommodations closed
Recommended travel time
May to October, birdwatching best in April/May, Ouzo Festival in July
Summer
Hot and dry, 28-35°C, Meltemi wind provides pleasant cooling
Winter
Mild, 8-14°C, rainy, many accommodations closed
How much does a holiday in Lesbos cost?
Budget travellers: 45-70 € (guesthouse, tavern)/day, mid-range: 80-130 € (good hotel, restaurants)/day, luxury: 150-250 € (boutique hotel, gourmet experience)/day.
Average costs per person per day
Budget
45-70 € (guesthouse, tavern)
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
80-130 € (good hotel, restaurants)
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
150-250 € (boutique hotel, gourmet experience)
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
How do I get from Germany to Lesbos?
Direct flight in summer about 3 hours, otherwise via Athens with connecting flight or ferry
Book a package holiday to Lesbos
Compare thousands of package holidays to Lesbos and find the best deals with flight & hotel.
Compare package holidays nowWhat travel tips are there for Lesbos?
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
A rental car is essential – Lesbos is large and bus connections are rare
Don't miss the Ouzo tasting in Plomari – Barbayiannis and Ouzo Plomari are the most famous brands
Visit the petrified forest in Sigri early in the morning when the light is best
Bring cash – cards are rarely accepted in small villages and taverns
Pack binoculars in spring – birdwatching at Kalloni is world-class
What should you eat in Lesbos?
Typical specialities in Lesbos: Anchovies from Kalloni – famous throughout Greece, served freshly grilled or pickled, Ladotyri – spicy cheese preserved in olive oil, a local specialty of Lesbos, Ouzo Meze – small bites like octopus, fava, and dolmades enjoyed with Ouzo, Moussaka – the Greek classic with eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel, Loukoumades – fried honey balls with cinnamon, the perfect dessert in the tavern.
These specialties you must try!
