OVERVIEW
A walking tour of Molyvos in Lesvos
There are so many reasons why Lesvos wins the hearts of its visitors. It’s the home of ouzo (especially in Plomari) and is a destination that has retained all its authenticity, perfect for anyone looking for relaxing holidays and for families with kids. Beyond the beaches, there’s a wealth of greenery and archaeological monuments and it boasts some of the most beautiful traditional settlements in Greece.
Molyvos (also known as Mithymna) is one of those landmark settlements, a medieval town built amphitheatrically on a slope and topped by a Venetian castle that’s lit up at night. By day, the stone houses and tiled roofs of Molyvos glisten in the sun, encouraging you to wander around the narrow cobblestone streets. As you do so, you can pop into cute little shops selling local products and traditional eateries – either by the waterfront or tucked away amongst the alleyways and bougainvillea of town.
From any angle, Molyvos is a must-see on your holidays in Lesvos. From the castle, the view is one of the best in the North Aegean and, at sea level, you can end your walk with a dip or an iced ouzo and meze at the beach.
DON'T MISS
Highlights of Molyvos town in Lesvos
Molyvos’ harbour and colourful houses
Your walking tour starts in Molyvos’ picturesque little harbour, on the edge town, where kaikia (traditional fishing boats) and other vessels bob before a handful of cafes and tavernas. You’ll be tempted to stop for coffee and soak up the atmosphere but we’re sending you along the narrow cobblestoned road that leaves the harbour and runs along the coast road at the foot of town. On your left, Molyvos’ colourful houses rise up the hillside and below you to the right is the Aegean Sea. Choose a road leading into town and explore the alleyways leading up towards the castle.
Molyvos Castle
Molyvos castle is the second biggest castle in size and significance in Lesvos. It is (for the most part) the work of the Venetians, with subsequent additions and restorations having been made during the Ottoman occupation. The castle is built on the site of the acropolis of the ancient city of Mithymna, dating to (at least) the 5th century BC, according to remains discovered under the two towers. From the top of the castle, the view of Molyvos and the Aegean is one of the best in Lesvos.
The Ottoman Baths
Descending from the castle, head to the Ottoman Baths on Kastrou (Castle) Street. Constructed around the 19th century as part of a wider complex of Ottoman-era buildings in the area, the baths have now been absorbed into the wider settlement. Architecturally, however, they are considered one of the most important surviving buildings from Ottoman times, comprising separate public baths for men and women and having been an important part of the religious rituals of the time.
The open-air cinema
The next stop on your walking tour is the open-air cinema, Cine Arion, by the olive groves on the way out of town. It’s a great location for catching a film under the summer stars and a highlight of any holidays in Lesvos, with the atmosphere changing as the sun sets and the illuminated castle visible in the background.
Molyvos beach
Dropping back to the coast road, you reach Molyvos beach and the perfect ending to your walking tour. With a mix of sand and fine pebbles, it is fully organised with umbrellas, sunbeds and other amenities. But it’s also big enough for you to find an isolated spot and completely unwind. If your walking tour of Molyvos is during the day, bring your swimwear and have a dip, followed by a meal with a sea view.
GET PLANNING
How do you get to Lesvos in Greece?
- By plane: The fastest way to get to Lesvos is to fly from Athens, as there are daily connections to the airport all year round.
- By boat: There are regular boat connections with Piraeus throughout the year (daily during the summer months), with journeys taking 11-17hrs depending on the number of stops. There are also regular ferry connections throughout the year with the ports of Kavala (6.5-10.5hrs) and Thessaloniki (7-10hrs).
- Lesvos is also connected with regular boat services from other North Aegean islands, such as Chios and Lemnos, as well as some Cycladic islands.
How do you get to Molyvos town from Lesvos airport and port?
- Molyvos is about 66km (1hr15mins by car) from Lesvos’ airport and 60km (1hr10mins) from Mytilene, the main town and port. There are taxis and rental car companies at both the airport and port.
- Alternatively, you can use public transport (schedules here) to get from the airport to Mytilene, from where you can catch the bus to Molyvos (schedule here).
When is the best time to visit Lesvos?
- Lesvos is lively all year round but the most enjoyable months are May to October when it is warm enough to swim.
Cultural sites:
- Molyvos Castle
Open all year round
More info for opening hours & tickets here - Ottoman Baths
More info for opening hours & tickets here - Cine Arion open-air cinema
More info here
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
- If you follow the suggested route, the total distance will be around 2.2km, so your walk will take 1-2hrs depending on the length and number of your stops.
- However, we recommend you dedicate at least half a day to Molyvos, so you can fully explore the alleyways and stop for coffee and food, as well as a swim at Molyvos beach.
