Lesvos in Late August- Too Crowded?

All Greek islands are busier in August than September, but these two islands don't attract nearly the crowds of Rhodes or the Cyclades. So I can't imagine they would be horrible. One way you could test this is try to book a hotel & see if you have trouble finding a room.

I have not been to Chios but have visited Lesvos several times and highly, highly recommend it. If you have a week there, you might want to pick two locations on the island to stay. Depending on your interests, perhaps Vatera with its miles of sandy beach. Or scenic Skala Erresos. Or beautiful Molyvos with its castle and scenic market area. Or Plomari, with its famous ouzo factory.

I would strongly recommend Hotel Votsala (near Mytilene) for at least part of your stay. Here you will find amazing hospitality and wonderful breakfasts by the sea. They offer optional excursions for their guests or you can rent a car right at the hotel & explore the island.

Thanks, Charlene.

Gary

August 24 will still be "high season" for tourism anywhere in Greece but islands like Lesvos and Chios which are rather large can accommodate any kind of Greek Island Experience without the over-the-top tourism like Santorini or Mykonos.

I am scheduled for Chios in early October which is way out of tourist season. I've also done research on Lesvos and feel either island can offer you a more traditional and less-touristy holiday even for late August.

Since they are large islands and don't rely solely on tourism you'll find either island have lots of areas to base yourself without the crush of tourists. Do your research on both islands . . . you'll find areas off the tourist map and much more traditional depending on what you are looking for.

If you want tradition, history/archeology, a more local-flavor then islands like Lesvos/Chios are for you.

Check out Matt's Greek Island guide for more info on both islands.

http://www.greektravel.com/greekislands/