Enjoy the views from the Panagia Glykofilousa

You can’t miss the Panagia Glykofilousa (Church of Our Lady of the Sweet Kiss) as it’s Petra’s most visible attraction. It also tops TripAdvisor’s list of things to do in Petra, with reviewers describing the amazing views from the top. This traditional church sits on a big rock in the village, so you can look down on the cobbled streets and red rooftops or out over the sea to the horizon. You’ll have to climb 114 steps to get there, but it’s relatively easy and absolutely worth it. You might want to avoid it on a particularly hot day, though, or if you’re not feeling very lively.

Enjoy the Blue Flag beach

Petra beach is beautiful; people come here just to relax on the soft, golden sands and play in the clear, shallow water. The long sweep of sand boasts Blue Flag status and you’ll be surrounded by pretty scenery of hills and greenery, plus there’s the lively waterfront lined with tavernas, bars and cafés -the best place to spend the evening in Petra.

Like the rest of Lesbos, the sea life at Petra is so colourful that snorkelling and scuba diving are both popular. But if that doesn’t appeal, there are plenty of glass-bottomed boat trips so you can see the fish and reefs without even dipping a toe in the water. But if you are up for something more adventurous, Petra is a great place to learn how to sea kayak or windsurf as well.

Step back in time at Vareltzidaina’s House

If you like to find out about the history of the places you go to on holiday, you’ll want to visit Vareltzidaina’s House. This restored merchant’s house is not far from the main square in the heart of Petra, and its traditional furnishings and simple decor will give you an idea of what life was like here 200 years ago.

With wooden balconies hanging over the street and beautiful ceiling carvings and wall friezes inside. It isn’t very big, so won’t keep you away from the beach for long, making it a great place to stop off on a stroll through the village’s little cobbled streets making this hidden gem a great way to add a little culture to your holiday.

Visit the Ouzo distillery

You can buy their Ouzo in Petra’s supermarkets, but it somehow tastes better when you’ve seen where it’s made, so it’s worth finding out when they’re open. Some also say Ouzo tastes the best when you’re on holiday in the Grecian sunshine, so don’t feel you have to save it for a souvenir. And it’s best sipped alongside a plate of mezedes (nibbles), which tends to be included when you order Ouzo in the traditional cafés. There’s no better place for feeling at home in any Greek town or village, and it’s a great chance to try some of Lesbos’ other local produce.