Lefkada is best known for its spectacular beaches, but the island offers far more than turquoise waters. From mountain villages to sailing adventures, this is a place where every traveler can find memorable experiences. If you are planning your trip, here are the most rewarding things to do in Lefkada beyond the sand.
Sail Around the Ionian Islands
Sailing is woven into Lefkada’s culture, and the island is a perfect base for exploring the Ionian Sea. From Nidri or Sivota you can rent a yacht, join a day cruise, or arrange a private skipper. Popular routes include Meganisi, with its sea caves and quiet bays, and the smaller islands of Skorpios and Kalamos. Even a short trip reveals coves accessible only by boat, turning a day on the water into an unforgettable highlight.
Things to Do in Lefkada on the Water
Among the most memorable things to do in Lefkada is setting sail across its turquoise waters. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a first-time visitor, the calm Ionian Sea makes the perfect playground. Many visitors choose day trips that stop at hidden beaches and snorkeling spots, while others prefer sunset cruises that showcase the island’s coastline in golden light. Sailing gives you the freedom to discover Lefkada from a completely new perspective.
Sailing Routes for Every Traveler
From Nidri, you can easily reach the nearby islets of Madouri, Skorpidi, and the famous Skorpios, once owned by Aristotle Onassis. From Sivota, routes often include Kalamos and Kastos, two quiet islands where time seems to stand still. Longer itineraries can take you toward Kefalonia or Ithaca, turning Lefkada into the perfect starting point for a wider Ionian adventure. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a romantic journey, sailing offers a unique connection to the island’s maritime spirit.
Visit Nydri Waterfalls
Just a short drive inland from Nidri lies Dimossari, better known as Nydri Waterfalls. A gentle walk through shaded paths leads to natural pools surrounded by rock formations. The hike is suitable for families, and in spring or early summer the water flow is at its strongest. Many visitors enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters, a welcome contrast to the island’s warm beaches.
Things to do in Lefkada near Nydri
Visiting Nydri Waterfalls is one of the most popular things to do in Lefkada for travelers who want to mix nature and activity. The path is easy to follow and shaded by plane trees, making it enjoyable even on warmer days. Families often choose this excursion as it is safe for children while still rewarding for adults who want to experience the natural beauty of Lefkada beyond its beaches.
When to Visit Nydri Waterfalls
The waterfalls are at their most impressive during spring and early summer when the snow from the mountains melts and the water flow increases. By late summer, the streams become smaller but the pools remain an inviting spot for a cool dip. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended for avoiding crowds and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Combine your visit with a stop in Nidri for a local meal or a walk along the harbor.
Explore Mountain Villages
Away from the coast, Lefkada’s mountains hide traditional villages where time feels slower. Karya is the most famous, known for its embroidery tradition and lively square shaded by plane trees. Exanthia offers stunning sunset views and a few excellent tavernas perched high above the sea. Exploring these villages gives you a sense of authentic island life, far removed from the tourist beaches.
Things to do in Lefkada While Visiting the Mountain Villages
Visiting mountain villages is one of the best things to do in Lefkada if you want to experience the island beyond the sea. Karya is especially popular for its cultural heritage, as it has preserved the art of handmade embroidery for generations. Walking through the narrow streets, you will find traditional houses, small museums, and local shops where artisans proudly share their craft. The central square is a highlight, a meeting place for locals and visitors under the shade of old plane trees.
Sunset Views and Local Taverns in Exanthia
Exanthia is another village worth exploring, especially for its panoramic views. Perched high on the mountain slopes, it offers breathtaking sunsets that attract photographers and travelers alike. A few tavernas here serve authentic dishes made with local ingredients, combining traditional recipes with the most stunning backdrop of the Ionian Sea. Stopping for dinner in Exanthia is a memorable way to end a day exploring Lefkada’s mountains.
Taste the Flavors of Lefkada
Lefkada has a strong agricultural tradition, and tasting its products is one of the most rewarding things to do in Lefkada. Several family-run olive mills welcome visitors to learn about production and sample extra virgin oils. Local vineyards also offer tastings, where you can try varieties unique to the Ionian islands. Pair these with traditional cheeses and honey, and you have a delicious way to experience the island.
Olive Oil and Vineyard Experiences
Exploring the olive groves and vineyards of Lefkada connects you with the island’s history and traditions. Many small producers open their doors to visitors, offering guided tours, where you can see the process of harvesting, pressing, and bottling olive oil. Vineyards often combine tastings with stories of their family heritage, allowing you to enjoy wines that cannot be found anywhere else in Greece. These visits are more than tastings, they are an immersion into the island’s agricultural life.
Local Cheeses and Honey from the Villages
Beyond olive oil and wine, Lefkada is known for its rich cheeses and aromatic honey. Small farms in the villages produce feta, ladotyri, and other traditional cheeses using age-old methods. Local honey, often infused with thyme or wildflowers, offers another taste of the island’s natural landscape. Sampling these products at village markets or tavernas is a delicious reminder that Lefkada’s culture is deeply tied to its land.
Go Paragliding at Kathisma
While Kathisma Beach is already famous for swimming and sunbathing, it also offers one of the most unique island experiences: paragliding. Tandem flights with experienced pilots launch from the cliffs behind the beach, giving you a bird’s eye view of turquoise waters and golden sands. It is both safe and exhilarating, and one of the most unforgettable adventures on the island.
Things to Do in Lefkada for Adventure Seekers
For those who love adrenaline, paragliding ranks among the top things to do in Lefkada. Flying over Kathisma Beach allows you to see the dramatic coastline from a perspective that few travelers experience. The calm winds and open skies of the Ionian make it one of the most scenic paragliding spots in Greece. Whether you are a first timer or looking for a repeat thrill, this activity offers an unbeatable combination of excitement and natural beauty.
How to Try Paragliding at Kathisma
Paragliding in Kathisma is accessible to almost anyone thanks to tandem flights with professional instructors. You do not need prior experience, as the pilots handle the takeoff, flight, and landing. Sessions usually last 15 to 30 minutes depending on weather conditions, and safety equipment is always provided. Booking in advance is recommended during the high season, as Kathisma has become one of the most popular adventure hubs on Lefkada.
Discover Agia Mavra Castle
Located near the entrance to Lefkada, Agia Mavra Castle dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into the island’s history. Surrounded by a moat and with views across the lagoon, the fortress has played an important role in protecting Lefkada over centuries. Walking its walls is a quieter but fascinating way to connect with the island’s past.
Relax at the Beaches
Of course, no list of things to do in Lefkada would be complete without mentioning its beaches. Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma are world famous for their dramatic beauty and turquoise waters. Families may prefer Agios Nikitas or Vasiliki, where calm seas and nearby villages make access easier. For a full overview, see our Lefkada Island page where we cover every beach in detail.
Things to Do in Lefkada by the Sea
Spending time on the sand is more than just swimming. Many beaches in Lefkada are perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply watching the waves. Kathisma offers beach bars and sunbeds, Porto Katsiki impresses with its towering cliffs, and Egremni feels like an escape to another world with its long stretch of fine sand. Exploring these beaches is one of the highlights of any trip to the island.
Beaches for Families and Hidden Spots
Travelers with children often choose Agios Nikitas or Vasiliki, both of which provide safe swimming conditions and easy access to tavernas. For those who want more seclusion, smaller coves like Pefkoulia or Megali Petra deliver peaceful settings away from the crowds. No matter which you choose, relaxing at the beach is an essential part of discovering Lefkada’s charm.
Take a Sunset Drive to Cape Lefkatas
At the southern tip of the island, Cape Lefkatas offers dramatic cliffs dropping straight into the sea. Ancient legend says the poet Sappho leapt from here, and today it is one of the best places for sunsets in Lefkada. The drive takes about an hour from town, and while the road is winding, the reward is panoramic views over the Ionian Sea.
Why Lefkada Offers More Than Just Beaches
What makes Lefkada unique is the balance between world-class coastline and authentic inland experiences. Sailing, waterfalls, villages, gastronomy, and cultural landmarks give depth to any holiday here. By combining beach days with these activities, you will discover an island that is both adventurous and relaxing.