Lesbos has long been overlooked by Greece’s tourist industry, yet this island offers something special for everyone. Its rugged mountains and unspoiled natural landscapes provide endless adventures to adventurers, cyclists and beachgoers alike.
Lesbos offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions to keep your kids occupied on holiday. To help you plan the perfect Greek getaway for you and yours, we’ve compiled our Top 5 attractions for families with children in Lesbos – so that you have all the information needed to plan an amazing break!
1. Agios Isidoros Beach
Agios Isidoros Beach is a popular summer tourist spot, boasting an array of facilities and stunning seaside scenery within easy reach of Plomari – the island’s second largest town.
The beach at Agios Isidoros is renowned for its cleanliness, safety and commitment to the environment – making it one of Lesvos’ best beaches. It’s ideal for swimming or practicing other water sports activities. Only a short drive away from the village centre with traditional cafes and restaurants, the beach can be found.
For those wanting to discover more of the island, a day trip to Mytilene – its capital – is highly recommended. This picturesque city was built like an amphitheater on seven hills and boasts numerous interesting museums, historical buildings and monuments.
Mytilene is an excellent destination to explore the island’s history. In addition to its castle, there are numerous impressive archaeological sites and ruins throughout the area.
Mytilene’s Kastelia Agios Dimitrios Park is another popular tourist destination on the edge of town. With its picturesque surroundings and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, it makes for a wonderful spot to stroll or have a picnic.
For an alternative option, why not take your kids on a horseback riding tour? Various companies provide this service on the island; you should have no trouble finding one suitable for your requirements.
If you’re traveling with young children, Pebble Beach Hotel might be the ideal hotel. Situated close to Plomari and known for its ouzo producers, this property features rooms and apartments with a furnished balcony, satellite TV, and private bathroom.
2. Mytilene Archaeological Museum
One of the best attractions for families with children in Lesbos is the Mytilene Archaeological Museum. Here, visitors can learn about the history of this small island as well as admire an extensive collection of archeological finds.
The museum is housed in a building constructed in 1964 in Varia, Mytilene. It was funded by Stratis Eleftheriades (Teriade), the renowned Mytilenian publisher of art books from Paris.
At this museum, you can admire an important collection of paintings and other artworks created by Mytilene’s most celebrated artist Theophilos Hatzimihail. Some of his pieces have even been displayed at the Louvre and are considered essential pieces in Greek culture.
This museum also has a section devoted to the traditional Lesbian house. Marika Vlachou-Molynou spearheaded its reconstruction, recreating an 1880-1900 traditional house that showcases folklore artistry and simplicity.
Another interesting place to visit in Mytilene is the Limonos Monastery. This 16th century monastery sits amidst stunning scenery and provides an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
Finally, Ouzo Plomari Isidoros Arvanitis Distillery is a sought-after tourist destination. Here they craft the traditional alcoholic drink known as ouzo and it’s widely considered one of the finest distilleries in Greece.
Mytilene is a city known for its stunning beaches. Tsamakia beach in particular, which boasts beautiful sandy areas ideal for swimming, sunbathing or simply taking in the view, is one of the most popular. Although it can get busy during peak summer months, it’s definitely worth visiting if you have the chance.
3. Olive Oil Museum
On the picture-perfect Greek island of Lesbos, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. Visit Agia Paraskevi olive oil museum, take a tour through Kalloni salt pans or relax in an organic hot spring with healing properties – there’s something for everyone on Lesbos!
The Olive Oil Museum, situated in Laconia – one of Greece’s major olive-producing regions – provides visitors with an insight into the history, culture and technology behind producing this beloved fruit. Here you’ll find displays spanning from prehistoric times up until the early 20th century while studying olive oil’s influence on Greek culture and economy.
By studying the olive, you can explore its economic, nutritional and body care properties as well as its symbolic meaning in religion, customs and art. Furthermore, examples of artwork from various periods demonstrate how the olive has captured the imaginations of Greek artists and craftsmen for millennia.
The museum is divided into several areas, each detailing a different period in Greece’s olive history. It illustrates how olives and olive oil have made an enormous impact on both Greek economy and wellbeing while simultaneously inspiring Greek mythology, art, religion and manners.
There are plenty of engaging displays, educational workshops and multi-media applications. Plus, you can even play with models representing engine-powered olive presses! If you want to take your kids on an educational journey through olive oil exploration, this is the ideal starting point. It will introduce them to this wonderful product and help them understand its importance in daily life.
4. Village Train
Lesbos is an idyllic island for families, offering plenty of activities and attractions such as beaches and bays, historical landmarks and religious sites. Whatever your style may be, Lesbos will surely please everyone on your trip!
One of the best activities to do on Lesbos is taking the Village Train around the island. It’s an excellent way to see some of Lesbos’ top sights, such as Church on the Rock in Petra and Molyvos Castle.
On the train, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the island and gain insight into its history and culture. Additionally, you’ll have a chance to visit some of its museums.
Visit the Petrified Forest, a natural monument composed of fossilised tree trunks from a forest 20 million years ago. This forest offers an unforgettable experience on the island and should definitely not be missed!
Families with children on the island should visit Skala Eressos Beach. Here, there are plenty of restaurants, tavernas and water sports for them to enjoy. Plus, the sea here is calm and warm so swimmers can swim safely.
In addition, there are plenty of other great places to discover on the island. Molyvos Castle, for instance, is stunning and allows visitors to get a glimpse into life centuries ago. The Church of Agios Isidoros makes for an enjoyable family destination as does Olive Oil Museum for history buffs.
5. Beaches
Beaches on Lesvos are a top draw for families with children. The island offers an impressive selection of beaches, from serene pebble coves to stunning sandy stretches dotted with bars and water sports facilities.
No matter if you’re searching for a beach to jet ski or windsurf or just relax and watch the sunset, this stunning Greek island has something special for everyone. The sand is always clean and well maintained, leaving plenty of room for kids to play.
The seawater here is an azure hue, making it a picture-perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. There are plenty of shady areas where you can escape the summer heat in comfort.
On Lesvos’ south-east shoreline, Agios Isidoros beach is an excellent option for families. Situated close to Plomari resort, its golden sand and turquoise waters make it a top pick for an enjoyable summer day out.
Families love this beach because it’s fully serviced and there are sun loungers and umbrellas at every metre. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to get away from everything, this beach offers plenty of bars nearby so that you can eat or drink whenever you feel like.
For those interested in the natural history of Lesvos, the Petrified Forest should not be missed. These fossils contain crucial information about Earth’s evolution and it makes for a captivating place to visit.
