Best Time to Visit Lesbos

Greece Travel Secrets picks the best time to visit Lesbos, with a monthly summary of the weather, plus hotel prices and special events to help plan a visit.

Welcome to the island of Lesbos, a paradise valued by many for its culture-rich towns, picturesque landscapes, and beaches by the clear blue Aegean Sea. The climate of Lesbos is predominantly Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters.

If you're plotting your itinerary and wondering about the best time to visit Lesbos, consider factors such as weather comfort, hotel prices, crowd density, and special events. Let's dive into a month-to-month breakdown of these details.

Molyvos on Lesbos

Best Time to Visit Lesbos Month-by-Month

January is the coldest month in Lesbos, with average temperatures between 35°F - 54°F (1.6°C - 12°C). Rainfall averages around 3.8 inches (about 96.5 millimetres), and being a Mediterranean island, snowfall is rare. Festivities like the Epiphany on January 6th light up the region, which could enhance your visit. Hotel prices at this time are relatively low due to it being off-peak season.

February is a bit chilly, averaging between 37°F - 55°F (2.7°C - 12.7°C), with average rainfall at approximately 2.1 inches (53.5 millimetres). The month holds the carnival of Apokries, a colourful, loud celebration with events around the island. Accommodation prices are relatively low during this off-peak season.

In March, the weather starts to warm, with temperatures averaging between 41°F - 59°F (5°C - 15°C). Rainfall drops to about 2 inches (50.8 millimetres). Although there are no significant festivals during this month, the blooming landscapes are a sight to behold. Hotel prices begin to rise in anticipation of the tourist season.

April brings beautiful spring weather, with temperatures averaging between 47°F - 66°F (8.3°C - 18.8°C), and rainfall lowering to roughly 1.2 inches (30.5 millimetres). Easter celebrations, featuring church parades and local customs, make April an exciting time to visit. Accommodation costs start increasing as the tourist influx begins.

Our Pick of Greek Islands Guides

May sports comfortably warm days between 56°F - 75°F (13.3°C - 23.8°C), and average rainfall of only 0.6 inches (15.2 millimetres). The annual Bird Watching Festival will appeal to nature enthusiasts, with Lesbos being one of Europe's top bird-spotting regions. However, expect slightly higher hotel prices due to the peak tourist season approaching.

Visiting in June offers excellent beach weather, with average temperatures between 64°F - 84°F (17.7°C - 28.8°C). Rainfall is minimal at only 0.3 inches (7.6 millimetres). The Petrified Forest Festival near Sigri offers a cultural feast, but hotel prices during this peak time could be a bit high.

July is the hottest month, with temperatures between 70°F - 87°F (21.1°C - 30.5°C), and rainfall is almost non-existent at 0.1 inches (2.5 millimetres). Watch for the island-wide Lesbos Food Festival, and the ideal weather makes for great beach visits. Late June/early July also sees the Lesbos Ouzo Festival - the island is renowned as the home of ouzo in Greece. Bear in mind, hotel prices are at their highest this month.

August continues the summer trend with temperatures averaging between 69°F - 86°F (20.5°C - 30°C), with rainfall remaining minimal. The month is known for cultural and music festivals across the island, but do prepare for possibly the highest accommodation prices.

September heralds the start of cooling temperatures between 62°F - 79°F (16.6°C - 26.1°C) and rainfall increasing slightly to 0.5 inches (12.7 millimetres). The annual Wine Festival in Mytilene is a must-see for wine buffs! Hotel prices start to drop with the end of peak season.

October averages comfortable temperatures between 54°F - 71°F (12.2°C - 21.6°C), with rainfall increasing to 1.6 inches (40.6 millimetres). As it's the period of the olive harvest, you can witness traditional olive picking and oil production. Accommodation costs drop further, making it a cheaper time to visit.

November ushers in lower temperatures, ranging between 47°F - 63°F (8.3°C - 17.2°C), and rain increases to about 3 inches (76.2 millimetres). There aren't any significant festivals, but lower visitor numbers and even lower hotel prices make for a quieter, more relaxed visit.

December, like January, is cool, with temperatures ranging between 40°F - 57°F (4.4°C - 13.8°C). Average rainfall during this period is around 3.9 inches (99 millimetres). Christmas is celebrated with local traditions, making for an interesting cultural experience. Hotel prices are the lowest during this month.

Lesbos

Best Time to Visit Lesbos Summary

So, what's the definitive answer to the best time to visit Lesbos? Well, it depends on your individual preferences.

If you're a sun-seeker and beach lover, then June through August would be your ideal months. The temperatures are high, and the rainfall is minimal, perfect for lounging on Lesbos's beautiful beaches.

However, if you're looking to witness some of the island's vibrant festivities, consider visiting in January for the Epiphany, February for the Apokries Carnival, April for the Easter celebrations, or September for the Wine Festival.

If bird watching is your pastime, May's Bird Watching Festival is an event you shouldn't miss. Lesbos is a prime bird-spotting location, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide variety of species.

Budget travelers might prefer the off-peak period between November to March. Although the weather is colder with a higher chance of rain, the significantly lower hotel costs may offset this. Additionally, the reduced crowd numbers during these months provide a more serene and personal experience.

Nature lovers would find spring (March to May) appealing, as the landscape comes alive with greenery and blossoms, making for picturesque views and cooler temperatures for explorative walks.

For those seeking an authentic local experience, visiting in October allows you witness the traditional olive harvest, an integral part of Lesbos' lifestyle and economy.

In short, the best time to visit Lesbos is the time that’s best for you. There are reasons to go throughout the year.

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