Hotels in Lesvos: which area to stay in and who each suits
The best areas to stay on this big island, and how to split your nights.
- Molyvos in the north is the popular choice; Mytilene suits the first night.
- On a 4 to 5-day trip, split nights between Mytilene and the north.
- No kosher restaurant on the island: an apartment with a kitchen is better.
On a first visit, spend a night or two in Mytilene and then stay in Molyvos or Petra. Rent a car, and book early in summer.
Where should you stay in Lesvos?
Lesvos is a big island and the drives between areas are long. So the important choice is not which hotel, but which area. According to Greeka, the convenient places to stay are Molyvos, Mytilene, Plomari and Skala Kallonis. On a 4 to 5-day trip, split your stay between two areas: two nights in Mytilene, then a few nights in the north.
The best areas to stay in Lesvos
| Area | Where | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Molyvos (Mithymna) | North | The most picturesque village, a castle, beaches, many hotels and relaxed nightlife |
| Petra | Near Molyvos | A beach village with a long beach, good for families |
| Mytilene | The capital, east | Close to the airport and port, nearby beaches such as Vagia, restaurants and the castle |
| Plomari | South | A seaside village with ouzo distilleries |
| Skala Kallonis | Kalloni Bay, centre | Close to the salt pans and birdwatching |
| Skala Eressou | South-west | A long beach and a quiet atmosphere, further from the rest of the island |
Which area to choose
- Short trip or first night: Mytilene, near the airport.
- Couples: Molyvos, for the village and the view.
- Families: Petra or Molyvos, for the beaches.
- Nature and birdwatching: Skala Kallonis.
- The Petrified Forest: it is near Sigri in the west. Plan a full day, or spend a night in the west.
Hotel, apartment or guesthouse?
Lesvos has few huge hotels. Most accommodation is small hotels, guesthouses and rooms to rent, mainly in Molyvos and Petra. In high season (July and August) book early. In winter most hotels in the beach villages close, and Mytilene is the practical option.
Tips before you book
- Car: almost essential, as the island is large.
- Kosher: there is no kosher restaurant on the island. Choose an apartment with a kitchen and order kosher food in advance. See Shabbat times & kosher.
- Flights: there is no direct flight from Israel; you fly via Athens. See flights to Lesvos.
- What to see: castles, the Petrified Forest and the ouzo museums. See the Lesvos guide.
FAQ
Where is the best place to stay in Lesvos? Molyvos in the north is the most popular choice. Mytilene is convenient for the first night and for flights.
How long should you stay in Lesvos? At least 4 to 5 days, with a car, splitting your nights between Mytilene and the north.
Does Lesvos have all-inclusive hotels? A few. Most accommodation on the island is small hotels, guesthouses and apartments.
Are Lesvos hotels open in winter? Most hotels in the beach villages close in winter. Mytilene has hotels open all year.
