Nydri holidays

How to reach Nydri

Flight time: Flights to Preveza from London and other major UK cities typically take between 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes.

Transfer time:

• From Preveza’s Aktion National Airport, it takes about 45 minutes to reach Nydri by car.

• Travelling by bus, changing for a service to Nydri in Lefkas Town, takes around 1 hour 10 minutes.

Price:

• An airport taxi to Nydri will cost around €65.

• Bus tickets are about €6 all in.

• Airport car rentals start from around €45 per day.

Best time to visit Nydri

Weather and crowds are likely to be the two biggest factors in pinpointing the best time for your Nydri holidays.

May to June is an ideal time for outdoor activities. There will be some showers, but generally, it will be warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 24°C. The sea around Nydri reaches a comfortable 19°C in May, perfect for swimming. Tourist numbers start to pick up towards the end of June.

July to August brings dry, sunny, 27°C weather. With sea temperatures around 26°C, you have the perfect ingredients for long beach days. Nightlife also kicks up a notch these months, with bars and clubs staying open until the small hours.

September to October sees a drop in temperatures, from 24 to 19°C, and more rainfall, but there are still 10 to 8 hours of sunshine daily. These are fantastic swimming months, with sea temperatures ranging from 26 to 23°C.

November to April are cooler, wetter months, temperatures falling from 15°C in November to 9°C by January before climbing to 16°C in April. Some tourist facilities will be closed for the season, but Nydri has a year-round population, so you’re not in tumbleweed-blowing territory either. You should be able to squeeze in swims until December; after that, sea temps fall below 17°C, and swimming will likely be off the agenda until April at the earliest.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Currency: Greece is in the eurozone.

• Getting around: KTEL Lefkadas buses link the main towns and villages and serve the major tourist attractions and beaches. Single bus tickets hover around €2–€4 and can be purchased on board. Taxi fares vary depending on the distance travelled; as a guide, a taxi from Nydri to Lefkas Town will cost around €25.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V 50 Hz. Plugs are two-pin Type C and F.

• Time zone: Greece operates on Eastern European Time, 2 hours ahead of GMT (3 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time).

Best things to do in Nydri

Located on Lefkas’ picturesque east coast, within easy striking distance of the capital, holidays to Nydri have something for all types of travellers: dense mountainous forest, stunning beaches, waterfalls and a lively waterfront.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• The Balcony Viewpoint: A 10-minute drive from town, this viewpoint offers panoramic views over Nydri and the Ionian Sea, especially beautiful at sunset.

• Pasa Beach: Located 1.5km from Nydri in Perigiali, this small sandy strip provides the perfect vantage point for viewing the lush green islets of Skorpios, Sparti and Madouri.

The best districts

• Nydri Waterfront: This area is the heart of the town, lined with restaurants, bars and shops. It’s a great place to stroll, enjoy a meal with a sea view or people-watch.

• Vlicho Bay: Just south of Nydri, this bay is quieter and has a beautiful marina. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a peaceful afternoon by the water.

Parks and gardens

• Nydri Waterfalls: A well-marked 3km scenic hike from town, the falls show to best advantage after rainfall.

Museums

• Lefkada Micro Farm: A 10-minute drive from town, this working-farm-cum-open-air-museum is the perfect spot to learn about the history, cultivation and benefits of Lefkas’ liquid gold.

Historical monuments

• Early Bronze Age Tumuli at Steno by Nydri: Featuring more than 30 prehistoric barrows, this ancient cemetery is worth a look-see.

• Ancient City of Nirikos: Wracked by earthquakes over the intervening centuries, little remains of the island’s ancient capital in Kalligoni, a 20-minute drive from Nydri, apart from portions of its outer walls, graves and some monuments.

Day trips in the area

• Meganisi Island: Four nautical miles from Nydri, this is the perfect place to experience the slower pace of island life. Fringed by pretty tree-lined beaches and with a dining scene that punches well above its weight, Meganisi is prime day-trip territory.

• Porto Katsiki Beach: On the southwestern coast, Porto Katsiki has the kind of looks you’d swear were photoshopped: dramatic pale cliffs juxtaposed with electric blue water.

Activities for families in Nydri

From a day at the beach to a day at sea, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do on your Nydri holidays.

• Family-friendly beaches: Sand-and-pebble Nydri Beach ticks all the boxes. It’s within easy reach of town, with clear shallow waters, trees for shade and plenty of facilities.

• Boat trips: If you’ve ever wanted to sail the seas on a painted replica Greek warship (and let’s face it, who hasn’t), you’re in luck. Departing daily from Nydri Harbour, Odysseia Boat Tours cruises offer a day steeped in myth and legend – a surefire hit with kids.

• Water parks: Whether it’s scaling an inflatable iceberg, see-sawing into the sea or tip-toeing across a floating balance beam, kids are guaranteed a fun day out at Panos Water Sports & Fun Park in Ligia, a 20-minute drive away.

Free things to do in Nydri

Holidays to Nydri are all about enjoying the great outdoors, whether swimming, sunbathing or simply watching a sunrise.

• Beaches: You can enjoy Nydri Beach for free if you forego creature comforts like a sunlounger and parasol. If that’s a step too far, if you eat or drink in one of the bars/restaurants that own sunbed concessions and spend X amount (anything from €20–€40), you can typically use their facilities for “free”.

• Watch the sunrise: Find a spot to watch the sun rise above the horizon, say Nydri Bay.

• Annual festivals: If you’re beginning to feel disgustingly healthy with all the outdoor goodness, the Festival of Agia Kiriaki (the patron saint of nearby Vlicho) offers a change of pace. It starts on 7th July and lasts three days. It’s the main celebration in this neck of the woods, with events taking place around the waterfront in Nydri and at the Church of Agia Kiriaki in Vlicho, a 10-minute drive away.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Nydri is a scenic spot for a ramble, whether it’s exploring the coast or Dimossari gorge, but if you are up for a challenge and want trails with a view, Mount Elati, about half an hour’s drive inland, is hard to beat.

• Kayaking: The coastline around Nydri is dotted with hidden beaches and sea caves, best explored by kayak. Rent a kayak from one of the local outfits and set off on your own adventure, or join a guided tour.

• Horse-riding: Discover the scenic countryside on horseback. Stables such as Eco Ranch Nydri in Rachi offer guided rides for all levels of riders.

• Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Lefkas’ beaches, particularly around Vassiliki, a half-hour drive away, are famous for their excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, the consistent winds and clear waters provide ideal conditions.

Explore the stunning beaches on your Nydri holidays

Nydri, located on the eastern coast of Lefkada, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian Sea. Whether you're seeking a lively beach with plenty of activities or a secluded spot to unwind, the beaches around Nydri offer something for every type of traveller. Here’s a guide to some of the top beaches to visit during your Nydri holidays:

• Nydri Beach: Right in the heart of the town, Nydri Beach is a convenient and popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach offers calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. With plenty of nearby tavernas and cafes, it's easy to spend the whole day here, enjoying the sun and sea.

• Perigiali Beach: Just a short walk from Nydri, Perigiali Beach is a quieter alternative with crystal-clear waters and a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds while still being close to the amenities of Nydri. The scenic views of the nearby islands from this beach make it a great spot for photography and peaceful contemplation.

• Desimi Beach: Located a short drive south of Nydri, Desimi Beach is a hidden gem nestled in a sheltered bay. This beach is known for its calm waters and natural beauty, making it ideal for snorkelling and swimming. The surrounding area is lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for a day of relaxation. There are also a few traditional tavernas nearby where you can enjoy fresh seafood by the water.

• Mikros Gialos: Also known as Rouda Bay, Mikros Gialos is a stunning pebble beach located further south of Nydri. The beach is surrounded by hills and olive groves, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting. The clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach is well-organised with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Mikros Gialos is a great spot for families and those looking for a more serene beach experience.

• Egremni Beach: One of the most famous beaches on Lefkada, Egremni is a must-visit during your stay in Nydri. Although it requires a bit of effort to reach, with a steep descent down a cliffside staircase, the reward is worth it. The long stretch of white sand and the vibrant blue waters create a breathtaking scene. Egremni is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the stunning natural beauty of Lefkada.

• Porto Katsiki: Another iconic beach on Lefkada, Porto Katsiki is often ranked among the best beaches in Greece. The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters make it a favourite for photographers and beach lovers alike. Although it’s a bit further from Nydri, Porto Katsiki is well worth the drive for its unique and awe-inspiring landscape. The beach can get busy during peak season, so it's best to visit early in the day.

Tips for enjoying Nydri’s beaches

• Boat trips: One of the best ways to explore the beaches around Nydri is by boat. Consider renting a boat or joining a guided tour to visit nearby islands and hidden coves that are only accessible by sea.

• Water sports: Many of Nydri’s beaches offer a range of water sports, including kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing. Take advantage of the calm waters and try something new during your holiday.

• Sun protection: The Greek sun can be intense, especially during the summer months. Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated while enjoying the beaches.

Nydri’s beaches are a highlight of any visit, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, exploring the underwater world, or sailing to nearby islands, the beaches around Nydri are sure to make your holiday unforgettable.

Local dishes in Nydri

Travelling foodies will find one of the best dining scenes in Lefkas on holidays to Nydri.

Some typical dishes

• Faki Eglouvis: Grown on the Eglouvi plateau, half an hour’s drive inland, these small, brown, aromatic lentils are a must-try. Look for rustic dishes like Fakorizo (lentil rice) or Fakes Soupa (lentil soup).

• Soupia Me Melani: Cuttlefish stewed in its ink. This rich Venetian-influenced dish will have you reaching for superlatives.

Meze dishes

• Riganada: These are similar to Cretan Dakos, toasted or dry, stale bread topped with seasoned tomatoes, oregano and extras like olives or feta.

• Loukaniko: Meat lovers won’t go far wrong with a charcuterie board featuring Lefkas’ famed spicy sausages.

Meat dishes

• Pastitsada: This pasta dish stars poultry or beef in a tomato-based sauce.

• Sofigado: Another Venetian-influenced dish, this sweet and sour stew features diced beef, sautéed onions, red wine vinegar, garlic, rosemary, Petimezi (grape molasses) and quinces.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Savaro: Fish cooked with vinegar, garlic, rosemary and raisins.

• Bakaliaros Skordalia: The classic combo, fried salt cod with garlicky mashed potatoes.

Street food

• Souvlaki: Bite-size skewered pork, chicken, lamb or beef served with pitta bread, tomatoes, onions and tzatziki.

• Spanakopita: Moreish, buttery, filo pastry pockets with a savoury cheese-and-spinach filling.

Sweets and desserts

• Ladopita: Made with an olive oil roux sweetened with syrup (sugar, honey, water, cinnamon and cloves), a base layer of sesame seeds and an almond topping, Lefkas’ traditional oil cake is a must-try.

• Mandolato: This nougat confection is made with honey, almonds and meringue.

Local drinks

• Vertzami: These red wines have a fruity, aromatic character and a pleasantly bitter finish.

• Rosoli: Lefkas' signature liqueur, flavoured with orange, lemon and cinnamon.