Getting from Chios to Lesvos

If you are heading to Lesvos from Chios you are making your way from one of the most overlooked islands in the northeastern Aegean to the third largest island in Greece, just a short distance to the north in the same part of the sea. It is the birthplace of Sappho, an island of olive groves, ouzo distilleries and a capital at Mytilini with a Byzantine castle and one of the most enjoyable waterfronts in the northern Aegean.

Take the ferry

There is a direct ferry from Chios to Lesvos running several times a week, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on the vessel and route. It is the most natural sea connection between the two islands and keeps the journey within the northeastern Aegean without going through Athens or Piraeus. Check the schedule before traveling as the service runs a limited number of times per week.

Getting there by air

Lesvos has its own airport with daily connections from Athens. Chios has its own airport with daily connections from Athens. Flying from Chios to Athens and then Athens to Lesvos takes around 1 hour on the second leg. Total journey time is around 4 to 5 hours. In Greece, airlines do not operate direct inter island flights.

Your best option

Take the direct ferry from Chios to Lesvos. It is the most natural and enjoyable connection and keeps the journey entirely within the northeastern Aegean without going through Athens. If the ferry schedule does not work for your dates, fly from Chios to Athens and then fly to Lesvos. If you are traveling with a car, the direct ferry takes your vehicle directly to Lesvos port.