Lefkas

Lefkas holidays

Think you know the Greek islands? Think again. This under-the-radar isle is ready to wow with its winning combo of postcard good looks and go-slow vibes. And dreamy doesn’t even begin to cover it. We’re talking barely-touched beaches, wild olive groves and sparkling blue-green waters as far as the eye can see. This is the real-deal Greece we all want to see.

Nidri

This tranquil village may seem small and understated, but it actually has a surprisingly varied array of things to do, see and enjoy. With just a short walk, you can marvel at the natural beauty of a canyon that leads to Nidri Waterfalls.

Nikiana

Nikiana is a peaceful village on the north-east coast of Lefkas. Holidays here are based around the quiet coastline, where you’ll find a small strip of sand at the resort’s nearest beach.

Agios Nikitas

Days in picturesque Agios Nikitas take a slower-paced approach. This fishing village’s natural beauty and charm still remains today, while beaches and towns nearby have become increasingly popular.

Agios Ioannis - Lefkas

Sleepy Agios Ioannis offers a true taste of Greece’s island life. Spend your days on the crescent-shaped bay lined with authentic tavernas and come night time, hit the laid-back beach bars and take in the sea views with a cocktail.

Katouna

Almost an extension of Lygia, Katouna is a small inland village that has gorgeous hillside views.

Lygia

This lovely village is all about the location. It’s perfectly placed for beach holidays as it’s close to some of the best shores in Lefkas.

Yiannis Hotel

Nidri, Lefkas

Our rating

Based on 442 reviews

Small, family-run property
Great value for money
Stunning views

Crystal Waters

Nikiana, Lefkas

Our rating

Based on 178 reviews

Perfect for couples
Close to the beach
Modern, bright rooms

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Language

Greek

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+2hrs

Cost of a beer

£2.90

3 course meal

£21.70

Flight times

3.5hrs

East or west?

The island’s east coast is home to countless sleepy bays. You may even find a spot all to yourself. When it comes to resorts, fun-ready Nidri delivers on the fish front thanks to bustling tavernas watching over the waterfront. Over to the west, the shoreline is cliffy and dramatic – don’t miss pin-up Porto Katsiki – and Agios Ioannis with its “life’s a beach” ways is as laid-back as you like.

More to explore

How do pine forests full of waterfalls and walking trails sound? Inland, you’ll enjoy all this alongside dinky villages where time stands still. Surfers should head south, as action-packed Vasiliki is known for its epic waves and photographers, colourful capital Lefkada Town’s calling for you. The island’s linked to the western Greek mainland too, so it’s easy to explore places such as Preveza if you’re up for it.

Wine tasting – why not?

Peel yourself away from the beach and a world of prize-winning wine awaits. Some say Lefkas wine is the best Greek vino you’ll get. Red-wise, there are full-bodied barzamino varieties to tantalise your taste buds. Quite the contrast are the crisp dry whites made from local grape vardea – the perfect partner for fishy dishes. Take a vineyard tour then fill your glass at Lefkas Earth Winery.

Beaches

One thing Lefkas has lots of is beaches. And white ones at that. Big, small, bustling, deserted – there are all sorts. But one thing they have in common is their unspoilt nature. Hit the east coast for forest-backed bays, bluer than blue horizons and tavernas on tap or go west for cliff-backed sands that look like something from Robinson Crusoe.

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Agiofilli Beach

Vasiliki, Lefkas

One of the most scenic coastlines on all of Lefkas, Agiofili Beach has a bright-white pebbly shore enclosed by dramatic, towering cliffs on all sides. Many people come here to relax and take in the stunning...

Agios Ioannis Beach

Agios Ioannis - Lefkas, Lefkas

Backed by exotic forest and dotted with charming windmills, this Blue Flag beach is the perfect place to chill out. You’re in a great location with lively Lefkas Town just a short drive away. It can sometimes...

Sights

What do you get when you cross waterfalls, woodland and sacred monasteries? Lovely Lefkas, that’s what. Although it can be argued that the biggest draw here is the roll call of knockout beaches – which are sights in themselves – the island has a fair few sights to seek out when you want to stretch your legs and take some snaps.

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Asprogerakata village

Spanochori, Lefkas

This inland village is the perfect place to stop if you’re exploring the northern part of the island. Experience the traditional Greek way of life among the friendly locals and check out the old houses, some...

Faneromeni Monastery

Agios Ioannis - Lefkas, Lefkas

Hear chiming bells and hushed chanting from daily services at the hillside Faneromeni Monastery. A winding path will take you there or if you’d prefer to drive, there’s a well-signposted road. However you...

Activities

There are many ways to make the most of the long, sunny days in Lefkas. Boat trips are popular, as there are a number of nautical sites and neighbouring islands to see. Sporty sorts have everything from surfing to hiking to get stuck into, while foodies can enjoy wine tasting tours and local produce markets. And quaint inland villages deliver on the authenticity front.

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Cliffside walkway

Agios Ioannis - Lefkas, Lefkas

Picturesque views aren’t in short supply in Agios Ioannis and if you’re a sucker for sea views, you’ll not want to miss this cliffside spot. The only route to the beach takes you past burnt-orange cliffs and...

Day trip to Lefkas Town

Neochori, Lefkas

The island’s capital sits on the north-east coast. This typically Greek town has a lively marina and a range of shops and restaurants. Capture those holiday memories at the 50m bridge to the mainland – it’s one...

Eating and drinking

Island life always means the freshest fish and Lefkas is no exception. Tuck into the island’s “sour” fish (that’s vinaigrette dressed red mullet to us) with salads and bread before your main is up. Locally-made lentil soup is another fave, alongside sofigado – a slow-cooked beef stew. Wash it all down with an earthy vertzami red and a slice of spiced ladopita cake.

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Dinner and drinks at Hotel Boschetto

Lefkas

Pitch up in the lavish restaurant area or outdoor seating section, and you’ll be greeted warmly at Hotel Boschetto. Wherever you choose to dine, you can enjoy an extensive menu of Greek, Italian and...

Keramidaki Restaurant

Perigali, Lefkas

If it’s fresh fish and seafood you’re after, Keramidaki is the perfect choice. Savour juicy calamari, freshly-grilled sardines and lemony sea bream, all washed down with an ice-cold pint of Mythos. If you dine...

Shopping

Unless you’re looking for souvenirs or simple essentials, you’ll have to hit Lefkada Town for proper shops. Lefkas has lots of locally-produced products to be proud of, ranging from sweet treats like thyme-infused honey and sticky nougat to olive oil, lentils and lace made in the mountains. But Delimari salami is the island’s pride and joy, so pick some up to take home.

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Nightlife

Nights out in Nidri are full of fun, so make your way along Main Street if you’re looking for a few sundowners. Or Lefkada Town for a few more cosmopolitan options. Everywhere else, the evening drinks scene is more low-key than on the tiles and mainly centres around the tavernas. After a long, lazy dinner, a glass of cinnamon liquor with the locals goes down well after dark.

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