Jet2 Announces Exclusive London Gatwick Route to Lesbos, Europe's 'Most Underrated' Island
Jet2 has unveiled an exclusive new route from London Gatwick to the Greek island of Lesbos, which has been celebrated as one of Europe's most underrated holiday destinations. The airline confirmed today, Wednesday, February 18, that it will launch weekly flights to Lesbos starting in May 2027, as part of a significantly expanded summer programme.
Why Lesbos Stands Out as a Hidden Gem
Lesbos, situated near the western coast of Turkey, was highlighted by car rental company Avis in 2025 as Europe's most unheralded holiday spot. The Telegraph also praised it as a "surprising" island ideal for a late-season escape. While many southern European destinations boast warm weather, Lesbos offers a unique blend of climate, culture, and history that sets it apart.
Summer temperatures on the island typically range from 30C to 33C, providing ideal conditions for beachgoers and explorers alike. Its Mediterranean coastline is renowned for its beauty, but the island's true allure lies in its architectural and historical treasures.
Key Attractions and Cultural Highlights
The main city, Mytilene, is dominated by a historic castle that overlooks hundreds of terracotta-roofed homes, creating a picturesque scene. Another must-visit location is the village of Molyvos, known for its narrow pebble streets and charming fisherman's harbour. Additionally, The Petrified Forest on Lesbos is anticipated to become Greece's next UNESCO World Heritage site, adding to the island's cultural significance.
Flight Details and Expanded Programme
From May 2, 2027, Jet2 will operate weekly Sunday flights from London Gatwick to Mytilene, with return services continuing until October 10. This new route is part of a broader expansion, with Jet2 increasing its overall capacity by 27 percent. Other destinations, including Tenerife, Ibiza, and Crete, will also see more flights, offering holidaymakers greater choice and flexibility.
CEO Steve Heapy on the Expansion
Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy expressed enthusiasm for the new route, stating, "Since we announced the launch of flights and holidays from London Gatwick, the reaction from customers and independent travel agents has been incredible, demonstrating the high demand for our industry-leading product and service. This popularity has driven us to significantly expand our programme in just our second summer of operations from London Gatwick."
Heapy added, "We are providing customers with a fantastic selection of flights and holidays, along with the opportunity to book their Summer 2027 holidays well in advance. With the launch of flights from London Gatwick imminent and Summer 27 bookings now open, this is an incredibly exciting time for both our company and customers across the region."
The introduction of this exclusive route underscores Jet2's commitment to offering unique travel experiences while capitalising on the growing interest in lesser-known European destinations. Lesbos, with its warm climate, rich history, and stunning landscapes, is poised to become a favoured choice for travellers seeking an authentic Greek island escape.
