What to do & see in Lefkada

Lefkada’s natural beauty makes it ideal for outdoor activities, and just driving around the island is an experience in itself. The beaches are heavenly and are often ranked among the world’s best.

There are many excellent hiking paths – the trail that runs through the gorge of Melissas and the path that leads to the waterfalls of Dimosari are among the best of them. There are also many excellent diving sites, thanks to the crystal clear waters and its rich seabed.

Lovers of kitesurfing and windsurfing will find that the beach of Mili, with its warm, smooth winds and turquoise waters, is a hotspot for high-flyers. Lefkada has a long yachting tradition, so if you happen to be here in September, you can experience the annual Ionian Regatta, one of the biggest yachting events in the Mediterranean.

Lefkada also boasts several charming villages, each with its distinct character.  The seaside village of Nidri is the island’s most popular resort. Wander around the alleys of the Old Town, have a coffee at the picturesque port, visit the museum to see relics from the Neolithic period and the archaeological site with the Byzantine and Roman tombs, and mingle with the cheerful crowd of locals and tourists in one of the numerous bars and restaurants.  Lefkada town, the main town and capital of the island, buzzes with activity.

Visit the monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, explore the Archaeological museum and the museum of Gramophones, and pick one of the many restaurants to try the island’s exquisite cuisine. For a taste of true rural life, lose yourself at the beautiful inland villages of Exanthia, Karia and Eglouvi and try the local delicacies at the family-owned tavernas.

Best beaches in Lefkada

Agiofili Ranks among the island’s best, with fine sand and turquoise waters. You can walk there or take the small boat that leaves from Vasiliki.

Agios Nikitas The small sandy beach of Agios Nikitas village. Close to cafes and tavernas, it is ideal for families with children.

Athani Stunningly beautiful and rather secluded. Remains blissfully quiet as it is does not have organized facilities and is rather difficult to access.

Dessimi A small, pebbly bay with crystal clear waters and natural shade. Rent a canoe to explore the sandy coves and caves along the coast.

Egremni Don’t let the steep staircase that leads down to the beach put you off…this is one of the most beautiful beaches you will ever see!

Gialos A stunning sandy bay with bright turquoise waters, located north of Egremni. It is popular with campers and has a cafe.

Gyra Popular for its soft white sand and dazzling turquoise waters. The beach is served by two tavernas and is family-friendly.

Kastro A stunning bay with crystal clear water, popular with tourists and locals alike, as it is close to the town of Lefkada.
Kathisma As beautiful as it is popular. Fine white sand, dazzling turquoise waters, a beach bar, sunbeds and even a camp site. Nudist friendly.

Mikros Gialos A charming beach nestled into the verdant bay of Poros village. Flat white pebbles, azure waters and a couple of tavernas and cafes. Ideal for families.

Mili A kite surfer’s paradise, with fine white sand, shallow turquoise waters and smooth, warm winds that make for perfect kite conditions.

Mylos Fine white sand, bright blue waters and trees that roll down all the way to the beach. Accessible only on foot or by sea.

Pefkoulia A long sandy stretch with dazzling waters, backed by a pine forest. Part of it is organized, and the lesser organised part is nudist-friendly.

Porto Katsiki This is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Fine white sand and dazzling turquoise waters, although it does get rather hectic in the busier months.