Location & Transportation
The port is right in Myrina where a long main shopping street stretches from the harbor in the south of town. Most cruise ships anchor offshore and tender passengers to the port. From the port area near the chapel of St. Nikolaos (visible from the ferry on a hill overlooking the harbor), it’s about a twenty-minute walk to the town center. For convenience, a minibus service now runs between these areas, making it easy to explore on a tight schedule.
If you need a visual guide, check out this map to get a feel for the layout.
Sightseeing
Myrina is the heart of Limnos (or Lemnos), the eighth largest island in the Aegean Sea. The island’s volcanic origins have blessed it with a rugged, yet beautiful landscape. While exploring, you can:
- Learn about the island’s history, from ancient times to its medieval past.
- Visit the impressive medieval castle that offers breathtaking views over the harbor and the coastline. Entry is free, and if you climb up in the morning or late afternoon you’ll likely spot the fallow deer that roam the grounds.
- Enjoy panoramic sights where, on a clear day, you might even glimpse the Chalkidiki peninsula, Mount Athos, and nearby islands like Samothrace and Imvros.
- Wander along scenic coastal areas and discover charming villages beyond Myrina—Moudros, the second largest port, is worth noting too.
Tours & Excursions
Limnos is perfect for those who love a mix of natural beauty and history. Consider these options:
- Join a guided tour that includes a visit to the island’s archaeological sites and the medieval Castle of Myrina.
- Rent a taxi, car, or even take a boat tour to explore beautiful, sandy beaches such as Riha Nera, Platy, Thanos, and Evgatis on the west and south coasts—or venture north to Gomati and east to Keros.
- For trekking lovers, there are plenty of scenic hiking routes that showcase Limnos’s volcanic landscapes and coastal beauty.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
While strolling through Myrina, don’t miss the bustling Market Street. You’ll find a variety of shops offering local products, souvenirs, and traditional Greek handicrafts—a wonderful way to take home a memory of your visit.
Dining
Myrina offers a warm taste of Greek hospitality with its family-run tavernas and cafes. Enjoy delicious local specialties such as fresh seafood, Greek salad, and other traditional dishes. I love stopping by a seaside taverna for a relaxed meal while enjoying the view—feel free to ask locals for their favorite spots!
Culture & Local Events
Local Events
In the summertime, Myrina and the island of Limnos come alive with local festivals, music, and street celebrations that showcase Greek traditions. These events are a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and enjoy authentic food, dance, and cultural performances. Be sure to check with the local tourism office for the latest events during your visit.
Safety & Awareness
- Emergency Contacts:
- European Emergency Number: 112 (works from any phone, including foreign mobiles, and connects you to all services)
- Fire Brigade: 199
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 166
- Coast Guard: 108
- Most public services run on a set schedule. For example:
- Public offices: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 2:00pm
- Retail stores and specialty shops: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 1:30pm and again from 5:00pm – 9:00pm; Saturdays from 9:00am to 2:00pm
- Supermarkets: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 9:00pm; Saturdays, 9:00am – 6:00pm
- During the summer, many tourist shops extend their hours until well after midnight.
- The local currency is the Euro, and Greek is the main language. A little cash is handy in smaller shops, and it’s always good to stay aware of your belongings when exploring.