Lesbos Greece

Lesbos: Our adventure began with a ferry ride to Lesbos, a picturesque island just off the Turkish coast. The ferry was bustling with Greek army boys en route to the island of Chia, which sits right on the Greek-Turkish border.

Much to the surprise of the young army crew, I slept on the floor of the ferry and woke up groggy as we docked at 7 a.m. the next day.

Initially, we planned to stay a night or two in Lesbos before moving on to Turkey. However, the island’s charm captivated us, and we ended up staying for over a week. We found a cozy self-contained apartment called Thalias Garden, which featured a balcony overlooking a beautiful garden. Most nights, we cooked dinner and enjoyed locally made ouzo—a drink we had grown quite fond of—on the balcony. Lesbos claims to be the home of ouzo, and while I’m not sure if that’s entirely accurate, they certainly produce an excellent version of it.

What drew us to Lesbos was its authenticity. The island wasn’t overrun with tourists, and the locals went about their daily lives, offering a glimpse into the island’s genuine character. We savored delicious local food in family-run restaurants and enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere. Lesbos left such a lasting impression that we decided it was definitely a place we wanted to revisit.

Lesbos Snapshot

Lesbos, a captivating island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. The island is famous for producing high-quality olive oil and the iconic Greek spirit, ouzo. Lesbos offers a diverse array of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and medieval castles to relaxing on beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. The town of Mytilene, the island’s capital, boasts impressive neoclassical architecture and lively markets, while picturesque villages like Molyvos and Agiasos charm visitors with their traditional stone houses and narrow streets. Known for its warm hospitality, Lesbos provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers.