Lefkada

Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
Stunning aerial view of the turquoise waters and sandy beach of Lefkada, Greece, with lush cliffs and a serene atmosphere.
Chris Vene, Pexels

Lefkada, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, offers breathtaking beaches with distinctive turquoise waters, white cliffs, and verdant landscapes. It is a destination perfect for beach enthusiasts and those seeking a blend of relaxation and active pursuits.

For social interactions, Lefkada Town, Nydri, and Vasiliki are the primary hubs. Lefkada Town provides numerous options for bar hopping with a mix of lounge bars and nightclubs. Nydri is recognized for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, featuring various bars and clubs along its main road, while Vasiliki also offers a selection of lounge bars. Additionally, beach bars along the coastline are popular for lively evening entertainment.

Top 7 Things to do in Lefkada

Lefkada offers a variety of experiences, from discovering pristine beaches with striking landscapes to engaging in thrilling water sports and exploring charming island towns.

1. Experience Porto Katsiki Beach

Porto Katsiki is a visually stunning beach renowned for its towering white cliffs, white pebble shoreline, and an intensely turquoise sea. Arriving early allows for a more serene experience before the crowds gather. The view from above the cliffs is breathtaking, and descending the approximately 100 steps to the beach is part of the adventure. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and capturing memorable photographs of its dramatic scenery.

Cost: Accessing the beach itself is free. Parking typically costs between €5 and €10 for the day. Return transfers from resorts can be booked for around $29.00 - $30.00 (approx. €27.00 - €28.00) per person. Water taxis are also available from Vasiliki for approximately €10.

Transport: Reaching Porto Katsiki generally requires a car or scooter due to its somewhat remote location on the west coast. From Lefkada Town, a taxi can cost between €120-€150 and takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, consider a boat trip or water taxi from Vasiliki or Nydri.

2. Visit Egremni Beach by Boat

Egremni Beach offers an unspoiled paradise with its long stretch of white sand and mesmerizing azure waters, set against dramatic cliffs. While a newly rebuilt staircase now allows access on foot, reaching it by boat provides a unique perspective of the coastline and is often the most convenient way to experience its isolated beauty. Spending a few hours here allows for ample time to swim, relax, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Cost: Boat trips specifically to Egremni from Vasiliki typically cost around €12. Full-day boat cruises from Nydri that include Egremni, Porto Katsiki, and other spots start from approximately €15 to €53 per person.

Transport: The most recommended way to reach Egremni Beach is by boat from ports like Vasiliki or Nydri. Water taxis from Vasiliki can reach Egremni in about 90 minutes.

3. Experience Windsurfing or Kitesurfing in Vasiliki

Vasiliki Bay is globally recognized for its excellent wind conditions, making it a premier destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts of all levels. The bay's unique thermal winds create ideal learning conditions in the morning, while stronger winds in the afternoon challenge more experienced riders. Engaging in these water sports offers an exhilarating way to interact with Lefkada's natural elements and is a highlight for active travelers.

Cost: Windsurfing equipment rental starts from €50 per day for beginners and €70 for intermediate/expert levels. Tuition for beginners ranges from €30-€160, and for intermediate/advanced from €40-€190, depending on the duration.

Transport: Vasiliki is located on the southern part of Lefkada. It is best reached by car or scooter. Public buses also run from Lefkada Town to Vasiliki, with tickets costing around €6-€8 for a one-hour journey.

4. Take a Boat Trip to nearby Islands and Caves

Embarking on a boat trip from Lefkada offers the opportunity to explore the smaller Ionian islands, hidden coves, and sea caves that are often inaccessible by land. Popular destinations include the island of Meganisi, the legendary private island of Scorpios (once owned by Aristotle Onassis), and various blue caves with their vibrant waters. These trips provide a chance for swimming in secluded bays, snorkeling, and enjoying the serene maritime environment, often including onboard lunch or snacks.

Cost: Prices for full-day boat tours vary; some cruises to beaches and islands start from €15. Other full-day cruises to Kefalonia and Ithaca from Nydri are available. Private boat charters can be arranged, starting around €100 per day for the boat (plus fuel), and often require an additional skipper fee (around €80).

Transport: Most boat trips depart from major ports like Nydri or Vasiliki, which are accessible by car, scooter, or local bus services. Some tours include pickup services.

5. Explore Lefkada Town

Lefkada Town, the island's capital, provides a charming blend of Venetian architecture, vibrant squares, and a scenic marina. Wandering through its narrow, colorful alleys reveals boutique shops, cozy tavernas, and lively bars. It is an excellent place to experience local culture, enjoy traditional Greek dishes, or simply take a leisurely sunset stroll along the waterfront. The town's historical sites and museums also offer insight into the island's past.

Cost: Exploring Lefkada Town is free, with costs primarily for food, drinks, and shopping. Museum entry fees may apply if visiting specific sites.

Transport: Lefkada Town is the main entry point to the island via the floating bridge from the mainland, making it easily accessible by car or bus. Once in town, the center is best explored on foot.

6. Hike to Dimosari Waterfalls (Nydri Waterfalls)

Tucked away near Nydri, the Dimosari Waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into lush greenery and a cool natural oasis. A relatively easy 15-minute walk from the parking area leads to the main waterfall, where a natural pool invites brave visitors for a dip in its cool waters, especially on a warm day. The scenic trail, with its impressive plane trees and serene atmosphere, makes it a pleasant alternative to the beach and a family-friendly adventure.

Cost: Access to Dimosari Waterfalls is free.

Transport: The waterfalls are located a short drive from Nydri. There is a parking lot available. From Nydri town, it is about a 50-minute flat walk to the entrance.

7. Experience Paragliding at Kathisma Beach

Soaring high above Kathisma Beach offers unparalleled aerial views of Lefkada's stunning coastline, where the Ionian Sea meets lush landscapes. Tandem paragliding flights, led by experienced and certified instructors, require no prior experience, providing a thrilling yet serene adventure. This activity allows participants to experience a profound sense of freedom and capture breathtaking perspectives of the picturesque scenery, often with complimentary video recording.

Cost: Paragliding tandem flights typically start from $141.99 per person (approx. €130.00) for a 15-minute flight or around €95 per person for an 8-12 minute flight with a total duration of 40 minutes.

Transport: Kathisma Beach is located on the west coast of Lefkada. While driving yourself is common, transport to the take-off area is usually provided by the paragliding companies.

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