The Castle of Mytilene is one of the largest and best-preserved fortifications in the Mediterranean, located on a pine-covered peninsula in Mytilene on the island of Lesvos, Greece. This guide covers the essential information regarding opening hours, ticket prices, accessibility, and practical tips for planning a visit to this historic Byzantine and Ottoman stronghold.
Quick facts for planning your visit
| Category | Details |
| Opening hours | Wednesday to Monday: 08:30 – 15:30 (Closed Tuesdays) |
| Ticket prices | Full: €5.00; Reduced: €2.50 |
| Address | Kioski, Mytilene 811 00, Lesvos, Greece |
| Nearest transport | Mytilene Port (walkable) / Local bus station |
| Typical time needed | 1.5 to 2 hours |
Castle of Mytilene opening hours
The Castle of Mytilene opening hours are consistently 08:30 to 15:30 throughout the year. The site is closed to the public every Tuesday, following the standard schedule for state-run archaeological sites in Greece.
Visitors should note that the final admission typically occurs 20 minutes before closing time.
Castle of Mytilene ticket prices
The standard ticket price for the Castle of Mytilene is €5.00 for adults. A reduced fee of €2.50 is available for senior citizens (non-EU) and students from non-EU countries.
Entry is free for all visitors on specific dates, including 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend of September, and 28 October. Ticket prices were checked on the official website and last updated in February 2026.
How to get to the Castle of Mytilene
The Castle of Mytilene is within walking distance of Mytilene town centre and the main port. From the harbour, visitors can walk north along the coastal road or through the Kioski district for approximately 15 to 20 minutes to reach the main entrance.
For those staying outside the capital, KTEL buses run from various villages on Lesvos to the main bus station in Mytilene. From the station, a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk through the market area will lead to the castle gates.
Parking at the Castle of Mytilene
Limited street parking is available near the entrance of the castle in the Kioski area. While there is no dedicated private car park for the site, visitors can usually find spaces along the road leading to the pine forest surrounding the fortification.
During the peak summer months, the streets near the harbour and the castle can become congested. It is recommended to park in the large public parking area at the port and complete the journey on foot.
How long to spend at the Castle of Mytilene
A standard visit to explore the three main sections of the fortress takes 1.5 to 2 hours. This duration allows for a walk through the upper and middle castle, a visit to the underground crypts, and time to view the coastal ramparts.
Accessibility at the Castle of Mytilene
Accessibility at the Castle of Mytilene is restricted by the site’s historical nature and steep terrain. The paths are predominantly made of uneven stone, gravel, and grass, which can be difficult for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility issues.
The lower castle area is relatively level, but reaching the upper citadel requires climbing inclined paths. Accessible toilets are not available within the castle grounds; the nearest facilities are located in the nearby Archaeological Museum or town cafes.
Inside / what to see at Castle of Mytilene
This European castle is divided into three distinct sections: the Upper Castle, the Middle Castle, and the Lower Castle, each reflecting different historical eras from the Byzantine to the Ottoman periods.
One of the primary highlights is the Ottoman Powder Magazine, a well-preserved stone building used for ammunition storage. Nearby, visitors can see the ruins of the Madrassa (Islamic school) and several cisterns that provided water to the garrison during sieges.
The Byzantine Crypts and underground galleries are accessible to visitors and offer a view of the earliest layers of the fortification. These cool, subterranean spaces were used for storage and shelter during various periods of the castle’s history.
The Gattilusio Coats of Arms can still be seen carved into some of the stone walls and towers. These heraldic symbols date back to the 14th century when the Genoese Gattilusio family ruled the island and significantly expanded the fortress.
The fortress walls offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the Turkish coast in the distance. The walk along the ramparts provides a clear view of the city’s layout and the northern harbour of Mytilene.
Practical visitor tips
| Aspect | Tip |
| Timing | Arrive at 08:30 to avoid the midday heat, as most of the 60-acre site is unshaded. |
| Footwear | Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the loose gravel and uneven ancient steps. |
| Supplies | There are no cafes inside the walls; bring your own water as there are few functioning fountains. |
| Safety | Exercise caution when walking near the edges of the walls, as many sections lack modern railings. |
| Sun Protection | Wear a hat and sunscreen; the stone walls reflect significant heat during the summer months. |
Frequently asked questions about Castle of Mytilene
| Search Query | Answer |
| Is the Castle of Mytilene suitable for children? | Yes, the open spaces and towers are engaging for children, but close supervision is necessary on the walls. |
| Do you need to book tickets in advance for the Castle of Mytilene? | No, tickets are available at the entrance gate and advance booking is not currently required. |
| Is the Castle of Mytilene open on Sundays? | Yes, the castle is open on Sundays from 08:30 to 15:30. |
| Are dogs allowed at the Castle of Mytilene? | Leashed dogs are generally permitted in the outdoor areas, but check at the gate for specific daily restrictions. |
Things to do near the Castle of Mytilene
- New Archaeological Museum of Mytilene: A modern museum housing mosaics and Roman artefacts, located a 5-minute walk from the castle.
- Old Archaeological Museum: Housed in a neoclassical mansion nearby, featuring pre-Hellenistic finds.
- Statue of Liberty (Mytilene): A bronze landmark situated at the harbour entrance, within walking distance.
- Theophilos Museum: Dedicated to the famous Greek folk painter, located a short drive away in the suburb of Varia.
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