HOTELS IN MEGANISI, WHAT TO DO AND MORE

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Located right between the island of Lefkada and the Ionian Coastline is the idyllic island paradise called Meganisi. One of those islands that requires a bit of extra effort to get to it, but is totally worth it on every level. If you’re seeking a low-key Greek escape that still feels like a secret, yet offers everything you could conceivably need, Meganisi may be the one.

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Where is Meganisi?

Meganisi is located between Lefkada and the mainland of Greece in the Ionian Sea.

It’s just a short ferry ride from the eastern port town of Nidri on Lefkada, which takes around 20 minutes.

Although an island, Lefkada has a bridge to the mainland and a growing tourist profile, due to its stunning beaches and proximity to the international airport at Preveza. Yet few people get over to its gorgeous small neighbour.

Meganisi retains a more tranquil, village-like charm. Despite its name (meaning “big island” in Greek), it’s tiny – just 20 square kilometres in area – but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in soul.

How to Get There

Lefkada is located 45 minutes drive from Preveza Airport and is south of Corfu and North of Kefalonia, which are both connected to it by ferry. It is a 4 hour drive from Athens.

From Nidri in Lefkada, ferries to Meganisi run several times a day and dock at the ports of Vathy and Spartochori. During summer, some sea taxis also operate private transfers. If you’re arriving with a rental car, check which ferries allow vehicles onboard.

For island-hoppers, Meganisi is also accessible by boat from Kefalonia and Ithaca, especially in the high season, though these connections can be more limited and less reliable.

There are also daily cruises to Meganisi from Lefkada with several companies, both large groups, small and private. The Pirate Ship from Nidri is especially popular.

Odyssey daily cruise from Nidri

When to visit Meganisi

Late May to early October is prime time, with June and September striking the best balance between warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August can get busy in the ports due to yachting traffic, but even then, the beaches remain blissfully quiet. Spring is especially lovely for walking and wildflowers.

Avoid visiting in winter unless you’re seeking total solitude – many businesses shut down, and ferries are infrequent.

Vathy Harbourfront

Where to stay in Meganisi

Vathy

The island’s main port town and the heart of Meganisi’s yachtie scene, Vathy is still a humble fishing village at heart. Sailboats bob in the water alongside caiques, and the quay is lined with laid-back tavernas, boutique-style accommodations, and sleepy bars. It’s the perfect base for exploring, and in high summer, its lively but never overwhelming energy makes for ideal people-watching.

Spartochori

Draped over a hillside above the sea, Spartochori is postcard-pretty. Think whitewashed houses with turquoise shutters, narrow cobbled streets, and sweeping views down to the marina below. It’s a little more local than Vathy, with family-run kafeneia and chickens roaming the back alleys. Sunset from the top of the village is a must.

Katomeri

This is where most of the island’s permanent residents live, giving it a more grounded, authentic feel. You’ll find traditional butchers and bakeries here, a few small tavernas, and even a folklore museum. While it lacks a port or beach, its central location makes it a great place to experience the rhythms of daily life on Meganisi.

There’s no high-rise hotel here – think boutique villas, guesthouses, and family-run B&Bs. You’ll find more options in and around Vathy, but Spartochori also has some lovely hillside properties.

Affordable Options

Hotel Meganisi – Clean, comfortable, and perched on a hill above Katomeri. The pool has fabulous views.

The Teachers House – a charming, converted cottage in Spartochori with a pool

Lakis Apartments – A family-run set of apartments in Spartochori, within walking distance of Atherinos Bay.

Luxury Hotels Meganisi

There are only a couple of luxury hotels on Meganisi, all quite new. They are small and intimate but stunning in terms of design, and in great locations.

Ampitheatro Hotel – just 6 suites and a pool, with sweeping views on the hill above Vathy
Keromoussi Boutique Hotel – located on 5 acres on a peninsula east of Vathy the 280 degree views here are very special.
Azure Retreat – perched proudly on the hill west of Vathy harbour, this resort includes a spa, high-end restaurant and luxury boho accommodation.

Villas and Private Stays

Meganisi Blue Villas – Sleek, self-contained villas with pools and modern kitchens. Ideal for families or couples.

Villa Aphrodite – stunning views and a big pool that sleeps up to 8

Amphithetro Hotel

The Teachers House

@Keromoussi Boutique Hotel

Spatochori

Things to Do in Meganisi

Rent a Boat

The best way to see Meganisi’s stunning coastline is from the water. Hire a small boat (no licence needed) and set off to discover secret beaches, sea caves, and hidden swimming spots. Many rentals come with coolers and maps, and staff will give you a safety briefing. Popular stops include the caves near Papanikolis and the beaches on the uninhabited islets of Thilia and Kythros.

Visit the Papanikolis Cave

This sea cave on the southern coast was rumoured to have hidden a Greek submarine during WWII – hence the name. You can visit on a private boat or join a small group tour. It’s an impressive sight, with aquamarine light filtering through the cave mouth, making it feel otherworldly.

Explore on Foot or Scooter

There are some excellent walking trails around the island, linking villages to coves and chapels. The terrain is hilly but manageable, and the views are spectacular. For a bit more speed, rent a scooter or small car – the island is compact, so it’s hard to get lost.

Feast on Local Cuisine

The Ionian diet leans heavily on fresh seafood, garden produce, and hearty village recipes. Must-try dishes include:

Bourdetto – Spicy fish stew
Savoro – Fried fish marinated in vinegar and rosemary
Ladenia – Like a Greek pizza topped with tomatoes and olives
Amygdalota – Local almond sweets, perfect with coffee

Try the taverna “Errikos” in Vathy for a long lunch by the water and possible celebrity spotting, or “O Vezalis” in Spartochori for sunset views and meze.

Papanikolas Cave

Thilia Beach Bar Ammoglossa

Vathy Harbour

Errikos Fish Fricasse

Meganisi Beaches

You won’t find beach bars pumping dance music or international DJs here, but there are a couple of organised beaches where you can rent an umbrella and sunbeds cheaply.

Most beaches are small, pebbly coves with crystal clear water and not much else. Perfect for a picnic and incredible tranquillity.

Fanari Beach

Arguably the island’s best-known beach, Fanari is a wide arc of white pebbles with electric blue water and views across to Kalamos. There’s a small canteen during the summer months, but otherwise, it’s all about simplicity.

Agios Ioannis Beach

This beach feels remote and untouched. It’s best accessed by boat or 4WD. The shallow waters and sandy patches are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There’s a a charming small chapel here too as well as a large inland lake behind the beach.

Atherinos Bay

Just below Spartochori, Atherinos is a gorgeous, boat-accessible cove with a tiny jetty and water so clear it looks digitally enhanced. There are often a few yachts moored offshore, but it never feels crowded. The nearby tavernas serve some of the best grilled fish on the island.