Molyvos is built on a rock, and therefore the town's beach is covered in coarse grey pebbles. It is however Blue Flag certified, pristine and washed by crystal clear water, well supplied with sunbeds and seasonal watersports. Those who are more active can enjoy walking either up or down the coast to find their own secluded hide-away for bathing or snorkelling. Just a short distance to the south, at Petra, there is a broad sandy beach for those who dislike the pebbles. The town has a lot of photogenic traditional architecture, and is home to the scenic Gattilusi Castle.

Aside from exploring the village, visitors can take organised excursions or hire their own transport and set off to see the sights of the rest of the island, which are many and varied. A popular outing is to experience the natural thermal baths at Eftalou, to the east of Molyvos. There are also various boat trips on offer at the harbour, some to the Turkish mainland, or for a fun alternative try donkey trekking.

Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken.

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency, divided into 100 cents. Banks and bureaux de change are widely available and travellers cheques and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are widespread and are generally the cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining euros.

Some holidaymakers have been disappointed to find Molyvos' town beach to be pebbled. On weekends in the summer there is a high volume of motorbike traffic that can be unpleasantly noisy.

While it may not be crammed with rowdy young clubbers and pubbers, the holiday resort of Molyvos is not totally devoid of jolly after-dark activity with a variety of lively bars in town, and a few discos and clubs on the fringes, with enough energetic youngsters to fill them. Molly's Bar is popular with the British expat crowd. Others prefer sipping ouzo to the strains of a bazouki, or passing their evening wining and dining over stimulating conversation in a relaxed taverna. Most of the nighttime noise and bustle is set well away from the hotels, so those who enjoy early nights will not be disturbed. In high summer Molyvos has a popular arts festival with performances at the Castle, and there is also an open-air cinema showing English films.

For holidaymakers to really appreciate dining in Molyvos, visitors have to be prepared to 'go Greek' and sample the fare on offer at the many traditional tavernas, sited mainly around the harbour and the market area. This being a fishing village, seafood is obviously the pride of most local menus, particularly mackerel and sardines. Most popular with holidaymakers is The Captain's Table overlooking the harbour, which serves up great Greek fish dishes and other specialities as well as some Italian pasta. Also recommended is the unpretentious To Xani, Restaurant Tropicana for breakfast and lunch, and Italian restaurant Galliano.

Molyvos has an enjoyable market for holidaymakers to explore, set along cobble-stoned alleys radiating from the central square, and shaded by lush foliage. Among the many touristy souvenirs on offer there is also plenty of local produce and crafts, and several shops with a selection of local art. While not designed for serious shop-aholics, browsing here is a pleasant way to pass an hour or two. There is also a supermarket for self-caterers.