Mytilene is the capital of Lesvos — the third-largest island in Greece, a place of olive groves, ouzo distilleries, and a cultural heritage that stretches back to antiquity. The town itself is a lively port with a fortress, a waterfront promenade, and a university that gives it a youthful energy. Unlike the Cyclades, Lesvos is green, fertile, and largely untouched by mass tourism — it is a working island that produces a third of Greece’s olive oil and most of its ouzo. Hiring a car here lets you explore the petrified forest, the thermal springs, the medieval villages, and the birdwatching wetlands that make Lesvos one of the most diverse islands in the Aegean.

We compare local operators in Mytilene and at the airport. Compact cars start around €18/day in low season and €30–€45/day in summer. The island has an airport with flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, and ferries from Piraeus (10 hours).

Why Hire a Car in Mytilene

• Mytilene Fortress: One of the largest castles in the Mediterranean, built on a promontory above the harbour. It has seven bastions, underground tunnels, and views of the town and the Turkish coast.
• Ouzo Distilleries: Lesvos is the ouzo capital of Greece. The distilleries of Plomari and Mytilene offer tastings and tours. Ouzo is an anise-flavoured spirit that is the national drink of Greece.
• Petrified Forest: 1.5 hours west. A UNESCO Global Geopark of fossilised trees from 20 million years ago, when volcanic activity buried a subtropical forest. The Sigri Museum has the largest collection of petrified tree trunks in the world.
• Molyvos: 1 hour north. The prettiest village on Lesvos, with a Genoese castle, cobbled alleys, and waterfront tavernas. It is a favourite with artists and writers.
• Thermal Springs: Lesvos has some of the best thermal springs in Greece. The springs at Eftalou, Thermi, and Polichnitos have been used since antiquity for their healing properties.
• Birdwatching: The wetlands of the Kalloni Gulf are a Ramsar site, with flamingos, pelicans, and hundreds of migratory species. April–May is the best time.
• Plomari: 1 hour south. The ouzo capital of Greece, with distilleries, a fishing harbour, and the Barbayannis Ouzo Museum.

Driving in Mytilene and Lesvos

Greece drives on the right. The roads on Lesvos are generally good — the main road runs around the coast. The interior roads are narrower but paved. The island is large — 90 kilometres from Mytilene to Sigri — so a car is essential.

Parking in Mytilene is in designated areas near the harbour. At the beaches and springs, parking is free.

Booking Tips for Mytilene

• Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer. Lesvos is popular with Greek families.
• If visiting the petrified forest, book the museum in advance.
• GPS is useful — the interior roads are poorly signposted.
• If combining with Athens, the flight is 45 minutes or the ferry is 10 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Mytilene

Is Lesvos worth visiting? Yes — it is one of the most diverse and authentic islands in Greece, with natural wonders, cultural heritage, and excellent food.

Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for all the main roads.

Is Lesvos safe? Yes — it is a safe and welcoming island. The refugee crisis affected the north but the rest of the island is unaffected.