The Majestic Castle of Mytilene: A Glimpse into History
Discover the Castle of Mytilene, a historic fortress offering stunning views and insights into Greece's rich heritage on the island of Lesbos.
The Castle of Mytilene, perched on a hill overlooking the city of Mytilene, is a magnificent historical site that offers tourists a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage of Lesbos. Built in the Byzantine era and later expanded by the Ottomans, this fortress showcases stunning architecture, impressive ramparts, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Visitors can explore its ancient walls, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens, and immerse themselves in the storied past of this beautiful region.
A brief summary to Castle of Mytilene
- Mitilini, 811 00, GR
- Monday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Bring comfortable shoes as exploring the castle involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to check out the small museum inside the castle for a deeper understanding of its history.
- Plan your visit around sunset for a breathtaking view over the Aegean Sea.
- Consider visiting during weekdays for a more tranquil experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the city center of Aeolis and head southeast on the main road towards the town of Mytilene. Follow signs for 'Mitilini' and continue driving until you reach the intersection at 'Kalloni Road' (D555). Turn left onto Kalloni Road, and then follow the road signs directing you to Mytilene. As you approach the city, keep an eye out for the castle on the hill. There is parking available near the entrance to the castle. Please note that the entrance fee to the Castle of Mytilene is 3 Euros.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Aeolis to Mytilene. Buses frequently depart from the main bus station in Aeolis. Ensure you check the schedule for the latest departure times. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes. Once you arrive at the Mytilene bus station, you can either walk or take a taxi to the Castle of Mytilene, which is approximately 1.5 kilometers away. Walking is straightforward and will take around 20 minutes; simply head north towards the castle hill, following local signage.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a taxi from any location in Aeolis directly to the Castle of Mytilene. The ride should take about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi fare usually ranges from 10 to 15 Euros. Once you arrive, expect to pay an entrance fee of 3 Euros to access the castle.
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