Lesvos is a great place to sample the local cuisine. It’s famous for its specialty food products, including grilled sardines sprinkled with coarse sea salt, trahanas pasta, and stuffed zucchini flowers.
Lesvos also has amazing castles, such as those in Molyvos and Mitilini. The island’s museums are a must-see for history buffs.
1. Take a Boat Trip
A boat trip is an excellent way to discover the raw beauty of Lesvos’ coastline and see the islands surrounding it. A variety of different vessels are available from ports on the island including Port Sigri, Plomari, and Mytilene. Explore the authentic villages of Lesvos and its picturesque beaches. Rent a catamaran, sailboat, yacht or speed boat to get the most out of your time on the water.
Lesvos is a natural paradise with beautiful sandy beaches and the seabed rich in biodiversity. The main town of Molyvos is a postcard perfect town with narrow cobbled streets lined with little craft workshops, traditional local taverns and cozy cafes. The Molyvos castle is one of the highlights of this picturesque town with its amazing view across the harbor, town and countryside.
The island of Lesvos is also famous for its ouzo. If you are interested in tasting it or learning how it is made, a visit to the World of Ouzo Museum in Plomari or the Barbayiannis Ouzo Museum in Mytilene is highly recommended. Both of them are functional distilleries where you can taste the drink and learn about its history and culture.
Another highlight of Lesvos is the Petrified Forest. This is a unique experience where you can walk on the stone-paved paths that were built from ancient times at various mountain points of the island. You can also see some of the remains of beasts and ancient farming tools that were found there as well as beautiful petrified trees with their roots still attached. This is truly a must-see for nature lovers and a great place to take some photos.
2. Visit the Petrified Forest
The petrified forest is an incredible natural wonder that is a must-see when visiting Lesvos. This UNESCO Global Geopark is home to fossilised tree trunks, branches, leaves, seeds and even animals that were buried by volcanic ash during the eruptions of 17 and 20 million years ago.
When you visit this amazing natural phenomenon you can see what the landscape was like during those times and learn more about how it was formed. The best way to experience the petrified forest is by taking a guided tour. You’ll learn all about how the petrified forest was created and have a chance to see some of the most impressive trees up close.
You can also visit the natural history museum of the petrified forest in Sigri where there are permanent and temporary exhibitions. Research, educational and touristic projects are held there in order to promote this natural treasure and help people understand its importance.
There are many other things to do on Lesvos, and the best way to discover them is by renting a car and driving around the island. You’ll find countless picturesque fishing villages, beautiful beaches and lots of other sites.
Another thing that is a must-do when visiting Lesvos is trying the local cuisine. The fish is especially delicious and there are plenty of places to try it. Some of the most popular dishes include “pasto mackerel,” “pasto lakerda,” and “alipasto,” which is fish that has been baked in salt only.
Lastly, don’t leave without trying some ouzo. This alcoholic drink is made in Lesvos and is a staple of the island’s culture. You can find ouzo at the World of Ouzo museum in Plomari or at Barbayannis. Both of these museums will give you a taste of the drink and explain how it is made.
3. Go on a Hike
Lesvos is a beautiful island and one of the few places in Greece that has been spared from mass tourism. This means that you can find a quiet spot even during the height of summer. There are plenty of beaches and coastline to explore and there are also a few secluded coves that you can visit.
You can explore the whole island on foot by going on a hiking tour with a guide. They can show you all the best trails and highlight some of the most impressive sites that Lesvos has to offer. They can also create a custom-made trip that meets your needs perfectly.
There are many different hiking tours available in Lesvos, so you can choose the one that suits your fitness level and interests. For example, you can go on a nature tour that will take you through forests, valleys, and the coast. Or you can go on a historical tour that will introduce you to the history of the island.
Another great thing about hiking on Lesvos is that the scenery is stunning. The island has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Greece, including mountains, gorges, and forests. You can also see the unique geological formations that make up the Lesvos Geopark.
A hike in Lesvos can be a truly spiritual experience. The island has a very positive energy and it’s easy to feel connected to the natural world here. It’s no wonder that Lesvos has inspired countless writers and poets throughout the centuries, including Sappho, the first lyric poet.
4. Visit a Monastery
One of the best things to do in Lesvos is to visit one of its many old monasteries. These monasteries are full of spiritual history and are a must-see for any visitor to the island. Many of the monasteries have been turned into tourist attractions but some are still used as places for pilgrimages and continue to carry on the spiritual traditions of the island. Some of the most notable monasteries include Leimonos, Ypsilou, and Agia Paraskevi.
Ypsilou Monastery was built in 1101 and is located on the crater of a dormant volcano. This monastery is not open to the public but it is a must-see if you are visiting Lesvos. It houses some remarkable gold embroided stoles and bible covers from 1588. The view of the coast of Asia Minor from this monastery is stunning and it is well worth a visit.
The Limonas Monastery is another beautiful monastery that is located on the island of Lesvos. This monastery is a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of Orthodox Christians throughout the ages. It is also home to some amazing works of art including ecclesiastical utensils and various objects, fretwork objects, and holy icons.
There are a lot of things to do on Lesvos and it is definitely an island that should be visited by all. From taking a boat trip to seeing the petrified forest, there is something for everyone on this gorgeous island. The only downside to this island is that it is difficult to get around. This is because there are only a few buses that go to the island so you will need to rent a car if you plan on visiting it.
5. Visit a Waterfall
The natural beauty of Lesvos is one of its greatest assets, offering a spectacular landscape of mountains, twisting rivers, and daunting cliffs. It’s a wonderful setting for hiking, which you can do in a few places on the island. Our local guide will pick the most beautiful hikes according to your interests, whether you want to see a lot of Lesvos in a few days or enjoy the island at a more relaxed pace.
One of the most unique things to do in Lesvos is to visit a waterfall. It’s not just a pretty sight, but it also gives you the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. You can swim in the refreshing waters or simply soak up the sun and enjoy a day of peace.
Another of the best things to do in Lesvos is to explore the ancient town of Mytilene, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The special atmosphere in this second town is made up of stone and wood homes, little shops, cafes, and ouzeries. You can also admire the Byzantine castle that overlooks the city.
Lesvos is home to many other cultural sites and attractions, too. You can marvel at the UNESCO Petrified Forest in Sigri village or admire the church of Panagia Glikofilousa in Mandamados. You can also pay your respects at the monastery of Taxiarhes in Petra and taste ouzo in Plomari.
With its gorgeous scenery, rich history, and tasty products, Lesvos is an incredible place to visit. Whether you’re looking for a summer getaway or a peaceful autumn break, this Greek island has something for everyone. So, why not pack your bags and go? This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you don’t want to miss.