Here are some of the best excursion ideas for your stay on Lefkada. During your visit, you can explore many fascinating spots to make your vacation more exciting while discovering the hidden gems of the Ionian coast. See our advice and tips for the best experience.

Given the island’s specificity and a certain number of beaches inaccessible or less accessible by land, there are numerous one-day boat trips available.

Most popular departures from Nidri port

The majority of boat departures to other islands or beaches are from Nidri port.
The most popular boat trips are:

  • “Three Beaches” Excursion: visiting the most famous beaches of Lefkada - Egremni, Agiofili, and Porto Katsiki.
  • “Seven Islands” Excursion: an adventure that includes the islands of Skorpios, Maduri, Meganisi, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kalamos, and Kastos (sometimes also Paxi/Antipaxi).

More examples of routes and boats

There are several options depending on what you want to visit:

Nidri Star 1 and 2:

  • Route: Nidri → Porto Katsiki → Fiskardo (Kefalonia) → Ithaca → Papanikolis Cave (Meganisi) → Skorpios → Sparti → Scorpidi → Madouri.

Nidri Star 3 (Specific tours):

  • Paxos and Antipaxos: Operates twice a week.
  • Beaches (Agiofili, Porto Katsiki, Egremni): Operates three times a week.
  • Islands Kalamos and Kastos: A more peaceful option, three times a week.

IMPORTANT

Stops on the islands are relatively short, about 1.5 hours. This does not leave much time to wander and explore. We experienced the boat leaving without us when we visited Ithaca. We called and they returned (as you can see in the video) but it was not pleasant. Time flies quickly at these beautiful places and it is easy to be late.
Avoid stress and watch the time!

Tip for adventurers: in Nidri, you can rent a motorboat or sailboat and explore the coast on your own.

From Nidri and Vasiliki, there is also a ferry to Kefalonia and several nearby islands, so you can visit them on your own at affordable prices.

Local transfers to the most famous beaches on the west coast - water taxis

If you only want a quick transport to specific beaches, water taxis are the most economical option:
Agios Nikitas → Milos Beach
Vasiliki → Agiofili Beach

Unusual attraction: swimming with wild pigs

For nature lovers, one of the most interesting excursions leads to Atokos Island where wild pigs reside, accustomed to humans and often swim with tourists. The tour lasts from 9 am to 5 pm.
We recommend arriving about half an hour early to find a better seating spot :)
The first stop is at the Papanikolis Cave, where the boat enters.
After about 1.5 hours of sailing, you reach Atokos Island. Due to shallows, the boat anchors at a safe distance and small boats come to take you to the beach.
And on the beach, wild pigs await you! Tourists touch them, swim with them, and the feeling is truly unique and incredible.
The rule is not to bring food and feed the pigs. For their well-being. Chips and other processed foods are not good for the health of these wild animals and it is forbidden to give them.

Watch a short video from the excursion to the island where wild pigs freely roam and swim with tourists HERE.

Practical tips to enhance your excursions

  • Sit on the right side of the boat if you want to capture or photograph the approach to the most beautiful beaches.
  • Bring water shoes as the stairs for boarding and disembarking from the boat can be slippery.
  • Bring sun protection for your head and shoulders (lotions, hats, scarves, shirts) as you can get sunburned very quickly on the boat (even when the sky is cloudy).
  • Bring snorkeling masks (for both children and yourself) to enjoy the view both above and below the sea surface.

Tickets for excursions

During the season, secure excursion tickets in advance. Book online if you are based in another location on Lefkada.
Always arrive at least half an hour before boarding.

Parking

Nidri port can be a nightmare for parking in the morning when all the boats depart for excursions.
There are two free parking lots and numerous paid private ones. The private parking is near the port but be prepared for it to be often full.

Before arriving in Nidri, check the parking locations so you can react quickly if your chosen parking lot is full. (Parking locations on Google Maps).

Excursions usually start from mid-May and last until the end of September. In May and October, manage your expectations as departures depend on the boat’s occupancy and weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there food on the boat?

Most offer barbecue or sandwiches, but it’s worth confirming.

What if the weather is bad?

In case of wind, excursions are canceled, and money is refunded or the date is changed.

How much does the excursion cost?

It depends on the tour you choose. Prices range from 30 euros and up. In the port, there are banners with the route description and price (visually displayed for all tourists to understand). You can also see excursions and conditions online.

Is bringing your own food allowed?

Usually yes, but inquire before booking a ticket.

What are the prices of drinks on the boats?

They are usually a bit more expensive. Our advice is to bring enough water with you. If you buy refreshments on the boat, you won’t have to buy water.