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Two people sitting on a bench on a cruise ship
white concrete building near sea during daytime
Flag of Greece waving at pole at Santorino, Greece
a blue and white flag flying in the wind

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

About Lesbos

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.

Safety
85
Nature
80
Relaxation
80
Food
75
Culture
70

Top 6 highlights in Lesbos

The places you absolutely must not miss.

1

Petrified Forest of Sigri

UNESCO Geopark with 20 million-year-old petrified tree trunks – unique in Europe

2

Molyvos (Mithymna)

Picture-book village with cobblestone streets, medieval castle, and picturesque fishing harbor

3

Ouzo Distilleries Plomari

Home of the Greek national drink with tasting tours through traditional distilleries

4

Hot Springs of Polichnitos

The hottest thermal springs in Europe (87°C) with natural bathing pools and healing properties

5

Kalloni Salt Pans

Birdwatching hotspot with flamingos, herons, and over 300 bird species in spring

6

Skala Eressos

Long sandy beach on the west coast with a relaxed atmosphere and spectacular sunsets

Hotels in Lesbos

Vergleiche tausende Hotels, Apartments und Resorts auf Expedia – mit Bestpreis-Garantie, kostenloser Stornierung und Bonuspunkten.

Über 700.000 Hotels
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Hotels in Lesbos vergleichen

* Weiterleitung zu Expedia.de. Es gelten die dortigen Nutzungsbedingungen.

Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen

Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie

Best time to travel for Lesbos

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?

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

Book a package holiday to Lesbos

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5 travel tips 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

Food & drink in Lesbos

These specialties you must try!

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
Suitable for:OuzoPetrified ForestThermal SpringsOlive OilBirdwatchingMolyvosNorthern AegeanIsland

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