Location & Transportation
Mitilini is a charming harbor town where you’ll likely be tendered right into the heart of the action. The port area offers duty-free shopping and easy access to local transport. Here’s what you need to know:
- Local buses serve the main roads throughout town, connecting key spots from the port to central Mitilini.
- If you prefer a taxi, you can easily find them by the harbor. Taxis based in Mitilini are yellow and use the meter, while others may offer fixed fares (around 1 Euro per kilometer) if traveling outside the city.
- You can also purchase bus tickets at local coffee shops or small deli shops near major stops in town.
Sightseeing
The crown jewel of Mitilini is its ancient castle, perched on a steep hill north of the city. Walking up to the castle is a rewarding 15-minute stroll (uphill but manageable), where you can:
- Explore extensive ruins that date back to the 6th century A.D. when the structure was founded by Justinian.
- Admire restorations and enlargements made in 1737 by the Genoese, along with later Turkish renovations.
- Notice fragments of marble columns from a 7th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, thoughtfully embedded in the castle walls.
- Visit the underground cistern at the north end, a serene echoing chamber with domed vaults and a reflective pool that lends the space an almost magical quality.
- In summer, enjoy occasional performing-arts events held within the castle grounds.
Tours & Excursions
For a deeper dive into Mitilini’s rich history and local culture, consider these excursions:
- A guided tour of the castle offers detailed insights into its storied past. Informative signs throughout the site help explain its evolution from Byzantine fortification to Genoese enhancement and Turkish modifications.
- Hop on a local bus for a quick tour around town. Routes extend from the port area to major landmarks, and you can buy tickets over the counter at local cafés or delis.
- If you prefer more flexibility, a taxi ride provides an inexpensive way to explore nearby attractions—you might even uncover hidden local gems along the way.
Shopping
Take a stroll down Ermou, the main shopping street that stretches from the south port to the north port. Here you’ll find:
- A lively fish market at the southern end, offering fresh sardines, mullet, and octopus.
- Narrow side lanes lined with antique shops and glimpses of old mansions that speak to the island’s history.
- The Agora, Mitilini’s main market near the north harbor, where locals sell everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.
Dining
Mitilini offers a taste of authentic Greek cuisine that you shouldn’t miss. When you’re in town, be sure to:
- Savor fresh seafood dishes at local tavernas—think grilled octopus, fried fish, and a variety of mezes.
- Try traditional Greek flavors like locally produced olive oil, crisp salads, and homemade cheeses.
- Enjoy a glass of local wine or ouzo in one of the cozy seaside cafés where the relaxed pace and friendly service make dining a pleasure.
Culture & Local Events
Mitilini pulses with traditional Greek charm and offers insights into local life beyond the typical tourist stops:
- • Local Currency: The Euro is used throughout, and while credit cards are accepted in most places, carrying some cash can be handy for smaller shops and local eateries.
- • Business Hours:
- Public services typically run Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
- Retail stores and specialty shops are generally open Monday to Friday (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM and again from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) and Saturdays from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
- Supermarkets operate Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, with reduced hours on Saturdays until 6:00 PM.
- Many tourist shops stretch their hours in the summer, staying open from dawn until well after midnight.
- • Local Events: Mitilini occasionally hosts festivals and cultural events, especially during the summer months. These events celebrate traditional music, dance, and food—check with local tourist information for current happenings.
- • Communication: While Greek is the main language, many locals in the tourist areas speak English, making it easy to get around and ask for directions.
- • Safety & Awareness: As with any busy tourist spot, keep an eye on your belongings. Also, be mindful on the roads, especially if you’re using taxis, as local driving can be energetic.