//
Greek island in the northern Aegean Sea
Photo: Σαλαμούρας Σπ /, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Lemnos (Greek: Λήμνος, Limnos) is an island in the Northern Aegean Islands of Greece.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
9 km east of Moudros near the village of Kaminia, this important archaeological site was the best-known city in the northern Aegean after Troy in the 3rd millennium BC. It started as a small Neolithic village and evolved into a thriving city that lived from copper. You can see ancient pottery, ruins of houses, barns, aqueduct, theatre and a parliament. The small museum explains in detail the history of the place and is worth a visit. The view from the archaeological site of the sea and the surrounding area round out a visit.
The ancient site of Ifestia, located near the village Kontopouli, was from the Neolithic to the early Christianity an important religious centre. The excavations show remains of a large settlement, with ruins of a castle, a cemetery, a baths, an Hellenistic theatre and a temples of the mysterious, once only on Lemnos and its neighbouring island of Samothrace manicured worship of Cabeiri, a “Sanctuary of the Great Gods”. The identity and nature of the deities venerated at the sanctuary remains largely enigmatic, in large part because it was taboo to pronounce their names. Literary sources from antiquity refer to them under the collective name of "Cabeiri", while they carry the simpler epithet of Great Gods, which was a title or state of being rather than the actual name. The cult of the Great Gods existed in ancient Greece as one of several mystery cults in addition to the worship of the Olympian deities. Mystery cults are cults or religion whose religious doctrines and rites are kept secret from outsiders. The inclusion in such a community of worship was usually carried out by special initiation rites. Because the mystery cults have broadly maintained their secrets, their myths and rites are hardly reconstructed and there are only a lot of conjectures based on ancient writings and archaeological finds. The sanctuary was destroyed by the Persians in 511 BC. The Athenians conquered Lemnos in the early 5th century and rebuilt Ifestia again, but introduced their politically democratic system. In the early Byzantine period Ifestia was abandoned because the natural harbour silted up due to continuous soil erosion and developing Christianity was averse to the old mystery cult.
The Temple of Kavirio is 3 km from the archaeological site of Ifestia. It is an old sanctuary also dedicated to the Great Gods (Caveiri). Its assumed that the sanctuary of Kavirio was founded around the 6th or 7th century BC and hence is older than the famous Sanctuary in Samothrace where these particular gods were also worshipped. After visiting the site you should definitely have a look at the “Cave of Philoktetis” which is directly below the excavation site. According to mythology, this is the place where the Homeric hero Odysseus, on the way to the Trojan War, had left behind his comrade Philoktetis who was bitten by a snake, in the hope of a cure. It is said that he owed his recovery due to the therapy with the famous “healing earth” of Lemnos. This earth was a major export of Lemnos especially in Roman times but was in use till the 19th century. It was mined near an extinct volcano. This mountain in the mythology was the workshop of the gods blacksmith Hephaestus.
A small island close to Moudros, which can be reached via a causeway. The island is an important archaeological site, with possible links to Troy. On display there is nothing spectacular, but the hike over the dam and the views of the Gulf of Moudros are worth the detour.
In summer Aliki is a big salt lake where you can walk on and a „must see“ destination in Lemnos. During rainy season it gets to a wetland. This wetland of Aliki- Chortarolimni (inbetween Kontopouli and Panagia) acts as a resting and wintering area for many species of migratory birds. The bird fauna of the region consists of more than 30 migratory and endemic species. With good luck you can see quite a number of flamingos.
These dunes are the largest sand dunes in Greece. Locals call them "the only desert in Europe". The dunes are accessible via a dirt road. The beach nearby is also worth a visit and has a beach bar.
From autumn to spring you can find many different bird species in this marsh area. The shallow lake dries out in summer.
The volcanic origin of the island can be seen particularly well in the very photogenic rock formations from cooled lava in several places on the north coast, e.g. near the village of Propouli on Cape Falakro. The approach is via a gravel track (closed to rental cars). The reddish volcanic rocks of Falakro are most photogenic in the warm light in the evening or in the morning. Another spot is on the headland at Ifestia.
As the island is relatively flat this sport gains more popularity every year. Rent a bike in Myrina (2 shops) or Kontopouli
Especially surfing and kite surfing. The wind conditions on the beach of Keros are best for these sports. Furthermore, the usual tourist water sports pleasures are offered at the beaches near Myrina.
Scuba diving is not allowed in some places for archaeological and military reasons. You have to inform yourself at a diving school in Myrina. There is a sunken city and other very worthwhile diving motives.
Visit the modest but neat spa area with hot mineral springs at Therma. It remains closed as of May 2022.
Lemnos is a stopover of bird migration. The salt lake Aliki and the marshland at Chortolimni are the best sites for observing.
An attraction for many visitors from the neighbouring islands and the mainland is the hunting season. The hunt for the wild rabbits is allowed all year as they have become rampant.
Another tourist attraction is a small ship touring the island, sometimes including a short time visit to the islet of Agios Efstratios.
The nearest beach to the main town is very clean, with soft sand and only a few steps away from the center. The beach is lined with poplar and plane trees giving good shadow around the bay. Hotels, Apartments are located in the immediate vicinity. There are also fish taverns serving tasty dishes
One of the main beaches, belongs to a suburb of Myrina with beautiful neoclassical houses and narrow streets. The beach is not very long, and part has umbrellas and sunbeds. The coast is sandy and the water shallow. At the beach different water sports are offered and other tourist facilities, such as fish taverns and hotels. Going to the nearby hill, one has a beautiful view of Myrina town and the castle.
The beach is well organized with beach bar and rentals of water sports equipment. Riha Nera is the most cosmopolitan beach on the island.
Avlonas is one of the closest beaches to Myrina and still reachable on foot. It is not crowded, has a couple of beach facilities and is known for its clear water. Also a space for beach volley exists. Opposite of the beach are some volcanic rocks what makes the beach attractive for snorkelling and fishing. Avlonas is quieter than the beaches in Myrina.
The long sandy beach of Agios Ioannis is surrounded by volcanic rocks, has fine sand and crystal clear water. A tavern is on the beach offers fresh fish and seafood.
The quiet beach of Prassa has crystal clear water and fine sand with pebbles reaching the shore. Prassa is not organized, completely calm, without sunbeds or parasols. The lonely landscape and green hills give a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is easily accessible by car or motorcycle.
Karvounolakas is a nice beach in a wonderful location, an isolated bay with soft sand. There are no tourist facilities, but the crystal clear waters and the charming background are quite rewarding. This is the ideal place for total privacy and relaxation in a unique natural beauty ( suitable as a nudist beach). The beach is easily accessible by car or motorcycle from the main road.
A beautiful bay in the north east of the island. Favoured by sailing boats to anchor
One of the most popular beaches in Lemnos, directly below the village Plati. This beautiful beach stretches for about 700 m and offers various tourist facilities, including sun loungers and parasols. There are cafes, bars and a water sports centre with training lessons and equipment for all age groups. The water is clean and flat, ideal for children. Some large trees provide good shade in hot summer days. Nearby there are taverns and accommodation for every budget.
Beautiful sandy beach, which is partly organized with umbrellas and sun loungers, but there are as well free areas, where visitors can enjoy absolute peace (nudist area). The area is surrounded by volcanic rocks and the coast has fine sand and azure waters. There are few accommodations and taverns that line the beach. This is a nice place to spend holidays, especially for families, because it is not too busy and not too loud.
6 km south of Myrina has a special charm with clean water, soft sand and gravel. The isolated location and the natural beauty of the landscape brings a peaceful atmosphere. The area is surrounded by tall trees giving shade during the hot days of summer. There are no beach facilities. Access to the beach is fairly simple, despite its remote location. There is a café nearby, where you can drink your Greek coffee and enjoy the view of the sea.
Cape Tigani is 8 km south of Myrina. The beautiful bay has a unique round shape and is surrounded by lush green hills. The calm clear waters and fine sand creating a nice holiday atmosphere.
A beautiful sandy beach in a bay on the south side of the island. It is an organized beach where umbrellas and chairs are available for rent. The beach is 6 km south from the capital and has a wide and 4 km long sandy beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. On the west side are volcanic rocks and a river separates the beach into two parts.
Kokkina is one of the most isolated beaches in Lemnos. It is 11 km south of Myrina near the Cape of Fakos in Kondias Bay, has barely any tourism, and is not easily accessible. Fakos is an ecological park. At the end of Kondias bay is the Beach of Diapori where dining options are available. From Diaporiyou have to take a 7-km-long gravel road to the beach of Kokkina. The location is ideal for long hours of peaceful sunbathing and especially favoured by nudist swimmers. Although the road to the beach is a bit of a difficult, it's worth a try for those who avoid crowds. The fine reddish sand and turquoise water in combination with the wild landscape is quite intriguing.
3 km south of Moudros Fanari (also called Fanaraki) is one of the most popular beaches in the region. The long sandy beach extends over several meters and is surrounded by green hills. The beach has some tourist facilities, such as umbrellas and sun beds. The beach is protected from the strong winds and has gentle waves. The way to the beaches is not paved. Fanaraki beach consists of Micro Fanaraki and Megalo Fanaraki. Micro Fanaraki is in a small bay 300 m south of Megalo Fanari. The rock caves and rock bridges on the edge of the beach are a very popular photo spot.
Makris Gialos is a particularly beautiful sandy beach and is 7 km away from Moudros. The beach has crystal clear water and stretches up to several kilometers. It's a good place for swimming and ideal for surfing because of the constant winds. Nearby is Poliochni, an important historical site where many facilities and hotels are located. In the area there are quite a number of other beaches as Skidi Beach or Parthenomytos Beach with its green water. They can be reached only on dirt roads. On this beach a number of trees were planted that are specially maintained for the visitors to provide some shade. On Parthenomytos beach is a small cafe where you can order drinks.
Louri is a quiet and unspoiled sandy beach with a rocky seabed not far from the village Skandali. The place is ideal for sunbathing and swimming without the bustle of the tourist crowds. There is no beach facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas and the area retains its pristine nature.
Keros is a long beach with white sand and is characterized by its natural beauty. It is 2 km from the village Kalliopi. Keros hasturquoise waters and fine sand, is one of the most beautiful beaches, and is the number one place for water sports such as windsurfing and kite surfing in Lemnos. The wind starts early at noon and calmed down in the late afternoon. Because of the wind and the long distance from the capital, Keros is not much frequented. There are very few accommodations because of the protected ecosystem of the region and only some beach taverns. Several other nice beaches (e.g. Ag. Joannis Beach, Aliki Beach, Sfounos Beach, Panagia Beach) line up the coast up to the village Plaka. All are little frequented because they are not easily accessible and also affected by the strong winds but popular as naturist beaches.
One beach is in a bay in the extreme north-east of the island, the other south of the village. The beaches are mainly used by the people of the village. From here you can see the Turkish neighbour island Imvros (Gokceada).
The beach is near the villages of Plaka and Panagia and is popular for locals but especially for wind surfers. It is the No.2 meeting place for the surfers after Keros Beach. It is a quiet sandy beach and partly organized with umbrellas, beach chairs and a beach bar.
Near the archaeological site of Kavirio close to the halfway abandoned village Agios Alexandros. The way to Neftina beach leads partly on gravel road that is in poor condition. Neftina is a long sandy beach with clear water. The beach is shallow and ideal for children. There are no taverns or beach chairs. A visit to the beach combines well with a tour to the nearby archaeological sites of Ifestia and the remarkable cave of Philoctetes at Kavirion. A visit there is highly recommended.
Near the ancient site of Ifestia there are several beaches some of them with touristic infrasctructure that are well managed and where you can find good cool off after a visit to the ruins. The best way to get there is through the village Kontopouli.
The beach is in the picturesque bay of Kotinas with its small fishing port and the very interesting Chapel on a small hill. Under the chapel you go down into a cave. In the bay there are good restaurants and the beach is equipped with beach chairs, umbrellas and beach bar. The bay is one of the "must see" places in Lemnos!
This quiet and partly rocky beach is known for its breathtaking barren landscape and is near the village Propouli. North of Propouli there are a whole series of bays surrounded by magnificent nature. Not all are easy reachable, but to going on a “discovery tour” you will enjoy unforgettable lonely bizarre landscapes. Because nothing is signposted and good maps hardly available (because of military reasons) it's advisable to check the landscape on Google Earth before going there. It is one of the "must see" locations of Lemnos.
Papias is a picturesque bay with a rather small sandy beach and crystal clear water. It is popular with anglers and fishermen and surrounded by barren landscape.
The beach of Gomati is a “must see” location and is nestled in a bay, a few kilometers from the village Katalakos. This fine sand beach has the largest dunes of the island (and actually the largest sand dunes in Greece and locals also called it "the only desert in Europe") and crystal clear water. The beach is accessible via a dirt road and is quite long and rarely crowded. There is a beach bar, parasols and sun loungers.
The good food is traditional and with many specialties from Limnos, the location with a fantastic view is also worth the bit far trip.
Recommended because of the special location in a cave by the sea, cafe and restaurant.
one of several taverns on the bay of Kotsinas, good food with wonderful views.
Cafe and restaurant right on the beach with beautiful views of the bay.
The food is average, but because of the special possibility to watch the sunset over the bay at dinner is recommended.
Best known restaurant on Lemnos, good food, can get quite busy.
Very well-known restaurant in the village square of Lychna.
On the beach of Platy.
At Varos in the middle of the island.
A few kilometers north of Mirina.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Çanakkale · Regional · CKZ
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Lemnos and Greece.
Travel tipsFind out how much does a trip to Greece cost in 2026. Compare daily budgets for island ferries, hotels, taverna dining, and ancient archaeological sites.
8 min read
ItinerariesPlan an ideal 10-day Greek island-hopping itinerary for 2026. Explore Athens, Naxos, and Santorini with ferry tips, timings, and realistic costs.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Greece in 2026. Compare island ferry seasons, sea temperatures, Meltemi winds, ancient ruins weather, and hotel costs.
8 min read
Travel tipsCompare taking a ferry versus flying from Athens to Santorini. Examine transit times, ticket costs, luggage rules, seasickness risks, and scenery tips.
6 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.