Getting from Mykonos to Lemnos

Lemnos sits alone in the northern Aegean, far enough from the main island hopping routes that most visitors to Greece never make it there, which is precisely what has kept it the way it is. It is a large flat island, unlike the mountainous terrain of most Aegean islands, with a landscape of rolling hills, wheat fields and volcanic rock that feels more like the Anatolian interior than a Greek island. The capital Myrina is one of the most underrated towns in the northern Aegean, a proper working harbour town with a Venetian castle on the headland, good seafood and a local life that carries on entirely on its own terms. The beaches on the eastern coast are long, sandy and largely empty even in the height of summer.

Take the ferry

There is no direct ferry between Mykonos and Lemnos. The connection goes via Piraeus and the total journey by sea is around 12 to 14 hours depending on the service. Lemnos is less frequently served than the more central Aegean islands so check the schedule carefully and book ahead once you find a sailing that works with your dates.

What about flying?

Both Mykonos and Lemnos have airports so flying is the practical choice on this route. The journey goes Mykonos to Athens and then Athens to Lemnos, with total travel time around 3 to 4 hours door to door depending on your connection. Lemnos Airport is a short distance from Myrina and well connected through the summer season. Book ahead as seats fill up in peak season.

Your best option

Fly. The distance makes the ferry a serious undertaking and the Athens connection gets you there in a fraction of the time. Hire a car when you arrive, the island is large enough to need one, and give yourself at least four or five days. Drive out to the eastern beaches, explore the ancient site of Hephaistia and eat at one of the fish tavernas in Myrina in the evening. Lemnos is one of those islands that rewards the people who make the effort to reach it.