Lefkada

Lefkada, Greece—an Ionian gem famous for turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and authentic Greek charm.

📍 Overview

  • Location: Ionian Islands, western Greece
  • Access: Connected to the mainland via a causeway and floating bridge (no ferry needed!)
  • Best Time to Visit: Late May to early October (peak: July–August)

🏖️ Top Beaches

  1. Porto Katsiki
    • Iconic white cliffs and vibrant blue waters
    • Best accessed by car or boat
    • Arrive early to avoid crowds
  2. Egremni Beach
    • Remote and stunning
    • Requires descending a long staircase (over 300 steps)
    • Great for photography and swimming
  3. Kathisma Beach
    • More organized, with beach bars and umbrellas
    • Good for paragliding
    • Amazing sunsets
  4. Milos Beach (near Agios Nikitas)
    • Hidden gem, reachable via a short hike or taxi boat
    • Less crowded, naturist-friendly section

🏞️ Things to Do

  • Explore Lefkada Town
    Quaint alleys, Venetian architecture, marina, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Visit Nidri
    A lively tourist resort with boat rentals, tavernas, and access to nearby islets (like Skorpios, once owned by Onassis).
  • Boat Tours
    Daily trips to Meganisi, Kefalonia, and Ithaca.
    Private yachts or group cruises available from Nidri or Vasiliki.
  • Waterfalls of Dimosari (near Nidri)
    Short hike through lush greenery to a refreshing natural pool.
  • Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
    Particularly good in Vasiliki Bay and Milos Beach for consistent wind conditions.

⛪ Cultural & Historical Sights

  • Faneromeni Monastery (3 km from Lefkada Town)
    Located on a hill with views and a small zoo.
  • Archaeological Museum of Lefkada
    Exhibits from the Paleolithic era to Roman times.
  • Agia Mavra Castle
    A Venetian-era fortress at the island’s entrance.

🍽️ Food & Drink

Must-try local dishes:

  • Savoro fish – Fish marinated with rosemary, garlic, and vinegar
  • Lentils from Eglouvi – Famous mountain-grown lentils
  • Bakaliaros skordalia – Fried cod with garlic mash
  • Local wines (try the Vertzami red)

Top Tavernas:

  • Taverna Rachi (in Exanthia) – Cliffside dining with a view
  • Kolyvata Taverna – Authentic, hidden gem
  • Thymari (in Lefkada Town) – Modern Greek cuisine

🛍️ Shopping

  • Local products: Honey, handmade pasta, olive oil, lacework, Lefkadian wine
  • Boutiques in Lefkada Town and Nidri for souvenirs, jewelry, and artisan crafts

🚗 Getting Around

  • Car or scooter rental is recommended for full island exploration
  • Local buses run between major towns but are infrequent
  • Taxis and water taxis available in touristic areas

🛏️ Where to Stay

  • Lefkada Town: Best for nightlife and convenience
  • Nidri: Great for families and excursions
  • Vasiliki: Ideal for windsurfing and laid-back vibes
  • Agios Nikitas: Quaint, car-free village with easy beach access
  • Luxury stays: Villas in Sivota and Meganisi

🧳 Travel Tips

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Greek (English widely spoken)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated (5–10% in restaurants)
  • Tap water: Safe in most areas, bottled recommended in some villages