Mytilene Castle

Explore one of the largest castles in the Mediterranean with a visit to the ancient city of Mytilene. Dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries, Mytilene Castle is located high on a hill overlooking the North Aegean Sea; an impressive fortification and a great place to spend a couple of hours away from the beach.

To reach the castle, you'll need to take a short steep walk starting at the harbour and passing traditional houses and quaint village streets along the way. The hike takes around 30 minutes, but once you arrive you'll be rewarded with beautiful views as far as the Turkish coast.

After paying the small entrance fee, take your time to wander through the castle grounds and read the informative boards which tell the story of the ruins. Along the way, you'll discover underground crypts, churches and water fountains, so remember to take your camera. If you're feeling brave, climb the stairs up to the castle walls, where you'll get the very best views out to sea.

Before leaving, visit the small museum which has artefacts found at the castle including ancient coins and pottery.

After your visit, take a walk down the hill to visit the lower castle area, where you can see some impressive restored buildings. Lesbos' Mytilene is also home to an ancient theatre and a number of museums, so stay for an extra few hours and make the most of your cultural day out.

More Things To Do ideas

Find more Things To Do in Lesbos: Kalloni Salt Pans | Molyvos Castle | Ouzo Distillery | Our Lady Of The Sweet Kiss | Petra Beach | Petrified Forest | Vareltzidaina's House