Lefkada

You’ve never seen the sea like this

Lefkada is a rare gem in the Ionian Islands, and you can drive there without ever stepping on a ferry. A slim causeway connects it to the mainland, but once you cross, the pace shifts.

Beneath the rugged cliffs and whitewashed villages lies a soul shaped by the sea and the mountains. Unlike the party islands, Lefkada is a place where days are measured by the sun’s path and the sound of the waves. It’s also home to some of the best beaches in the world, including the famous Porto Katsiki and Egremni, where turquoise bays meet sheer white cliffs.

Picture sleepy fishing villages where the scent of grilled fish drifts from taverna doors, and winding roads that lead to secret coves. It’s an island that rewards slow mornings, long swims, and evenings with salt still in your hair.

Whats happening in LEFKADA

Best Beaches in Lefkada

Lefkada’s coastline is a dreamscape of colours and textures. The water here shimmers in shades of blue you might think only exist in photographs, from deep sapphire to glowing turquoise. Rocky green headlands drop into pebbled shores, and white limestone cliffs frame long sweeps of sand. Every turn in the road seems to reveal another stretch of paradise waiting to be explored.

Porto Katsiki
The poster child of Lefkada beaches. Towering limestone cliffs plunge into electric-blue water, and every angle looks like it belongs on a postcard. Get there early to have a slice of paradise to yourself.

Egremni
Reaching Egremni is part of the adventure – a winding drive and a long set of steps – but once you step onto that endless stretch of sand, the world feels far away.

Kathisma
Perfect for those who like a bit of buzz. Sunbeds, beach bars, paragliding, and a sunset that turns the whole horizon gold.

Milos Beach
Tucked away between hills, Milos is reached by boat or a scenic hike from Agios Nikitas. Quieter and wilder, it feels untouched.

Top Things to Do in Athens (That Aren’t Just the Acropolis)

You’ll want to see the Acropolis, sure—but there’s so much more.

  • Visit the Acropolis Museum before climbing the hill

  • Catch a sunset from Lycabettus Hill

  • Sip cocktails on a rooftop in Psyrri

  • Watch a film under the stars at Cine Thisio

  • Explore street art in Exarchia

  • Wander the Central Market on Athinas Street

  • Stroll the gardens behind Zappeion

  • Take in the contemporary scene at EMST (National Museum of Contemporary Art)

Where to Eat in Athens

There’s no single way to eat your way through Athens. Start here:

  • Tavernas with paper tablecloths and grilled sardines

  • Street food like koulouri, souvlaki and bougatsa

  • Modern Greek cuisine at places like Nolan or Ergon

  • Vegan and vego spots like Avocado and Peas

  • Neighbourhood favourites in Pangrati, Koukaki and Gazi

Where to Stay in Athens

Match your base to your vibe:

  • First visit? Try Plaka or Monastiraki

  • Love design and coffee? Koukaki or Pangrati

  • Travelling solo or on a budget? Neos Kosmos or Exarchia

  • Nightlife your thing? Psyrri or Gazi

  • Need beach vibes? Glyfada or Vouglameni 

Wherever you stay, Athens is compact enough to explore on foot or by metro.

Getting Around

  • Metro: Fast, clean, reliable

  • Walking: Ideal for the centre

  • Taxis: Use the BEAT app or hail in the street

  • Trams: Great for reaching the coast

  • Tip: Avoid driving—Athens traffic is no joke

Best Time to Visit Athens

Spring (Mar–May): Green hills, blooming trees and café culture in full swing
Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, busy, buzzing with festivals and nightlife
Autumn (Sep–Oct): Still warm, fewer crowds, golden light
Winter (Nov–Feb): Cool and quiet, great for museums and moody walks

Tips For First-Timers

  • Carry cash—some places still don’t take cards

  • Tap water is safe to drink

  • Tipping is optional but appreciated

  • Most big museums are free on the first Sunday of the month (Nov–Mar)

  • Wear comfy shoes (seriously, marble is slippery!)

Athens Experiences to Live Like a Local

  • Morning freddo espresso in a tiny Kafeneio with a tiropita

  • Browse the laiki (weekly street markets) for fresh produce

  • Catch a live band at a basement bar

  • Explore Byzantine churches tucked into alleys

  • Grab a street souvlaki for lunch

  • Shop small with Greek designers in Kolonaki

  • Watch the sunset in Glyfada or Vougliameni