Lefkada
Lefkada, an Ionian island, is located closest to the western side of mainland Greece. What sets it apart is the fact that it can be easily accessed by car through a bridge! Known as one of the most sought-after destinations in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, monasteries, museums, and charming villages nestled along the seafront or mountains.
Its exotic natural landscape and picturesque beaches have earned Lefkada the nickname “Caribbean of Greece”! Our comprehensive travel guide provides all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Lefkada. Discover the island’s top attractions, including breathtaking beaches, remarkable landmarks, top-notch hotels, and restaurants. And don’t miss our extensive collection of stunning photos!
If you’re planning to fly, Aktion National Airport is the nearest one to Lefkada. While there are no ferry connections to Lefkada from the mainland, you can explore nearby islands like Ithaki, Kefalonia, and Meganisi through ferry services. Take advantage of these opportunities for some unforgettable island hopping!
Lefkada is renowned for its extensive stretches of sandy shores, boasting vivid blue waters reminiscent of exotic locales. Uncover the island’s hidden gems by embarking on a beach-hopping adventure!
Among the most renowned is Porto Katsiki, an extraordinary Mediterranean gem nestled beneath towering cliffs, creating a truly unique landscape. The crystalline azure waters and lush surroundings make it a sight to behold.
Another splendid option is Egremni, a sprawling golden beach caressed by crystal-clear waters. Bask in the inviting embrace of the sea on warm summer days, while the infinite blue horizon evokes an indescribable sense of liberation. Although it can get crowded, finding a tranquil spot amidst the Caribbean-like scenery is still possible.
Furthermore, Kathisma offers a well-organized and stunning beach experience, catering to those seeking the comfort of sun loungers, umbrellas, and easy access to nearby amenities.
Indulge in the wonders of Lefkada’s coastal treasures and create unforgettable memories.
To ensure an unforgettable vacation, finding the ideal accommodation is paramount.
Lefkada boasts a wide array of hotels and villas. Here, we present the finest boutique hotels to help you select the option that best suits your needs, ensuring comfort and enjoyment throughout your stay.
The Castle of Agia Mavra stands proudly at the entrance of Lefkada, welcoming visitors to the island’s main town. With a rich history intertwined with the fortress, this site holds great significance. Within its walls, remnants of buildings and the beautiful Agia Mavra church, constructed in 1888, can be found. The Castle also serves as a captivating backdrop for various events on the island, including concerts and the annual meeting of Lefkada choirs, creating a unique and memorable experience for the audience.
When exploring Lefkada, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the island’s exquisite local products. From the renowned Eglouvi lentils, considered the finest legumes, to the flavorful Lefkadian salami and sausage, influenced by the Italians, the island offers an array of culinary delights. Treat yourself to the rich taste of local honey, the golden goodness of olive oil, and the delightful sweetness of mandolato, a local sweet treat.
Lefkada boasts numerous charming coastal settlements along its coastline, offering visitors the opportunity to wander, appreciate the sea and landscape, and indulge in regional cuisine at local restaurants.
One such gem is Agios Nikitas, a picturesque seaside village nestled amidst verdant mountains and forests. Traditional houses and fishing boats create a quaint atmosphere, while modern amenities like restaurants, taverns, and bars add a cosmopolitan touch. Explore the cobblestone alleys on foot, marvel at the picturesque houses, and take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of Agios Nikitas beach. Nearby, the secluded Mylos beach awaits, accessible by boat or hiking trail. Another alluring waterfront village is Nikiana.
Nikiana is a highly sought-after tourist resort, offering accommodations, dining establishments, and a small harbor. Despite its popularity, Nikiana exudes a tranquil ambiance uncommon in typical Greek tourist destinations. Its charming beaches with crystal-clear waters are not crowded with parasols and sunbeds. Encircled by lush vegetation, this idyllic retreat is beloved by families and travelers seeking a relaxing getaway.
When it comes to culinary delights, Lefkada offers a plethora of restaurants and taverns where you can savor traditional Greek recipes and Mediterranean delicacies. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of lovely gardens or the Ionian Sea. Many of these establishments are family-owned, ensuring that your lunch or dinner is prepared with love and top-quality ingredients.
Highly recommended dining options in Lefkada include Rachi in the mountain village of Exanthia, The Barrel in the waterfront town of Nidri, and Molos in the picturesque harbor of Mikros Gialos.
For a memorable experience, treat yourself to a coffee or cocktail with a view at one of Lefkada’s elevated spots. Fly Me Sun and Stars in Exanthia village offers breathtaking vistas of the sea and mountains, serving breakfast, desserts, brunch, and lunch throughout the day. However, the ideal time to visit is before sunset, when you can sip an evening cocktail while marveling at the golden landscape painted by the setting sun.
Alternatively, Amente in Drymonas village provides an excellent opportunity to witness the sunset while enjoying a refreshing cocktail or delectable meal. This establishment is renowned for its fusion-cuisine dishes of high quality, all at reasonable prices.
If you crave adventure and adrenaline, why not try paragliding over Lefkada’s stunning beaches? Experience the thrill of soaring above the island’s breathtaking landscape, feeling the rush of adrenaline and the sense of absolute freedom. Kathisma and Agios Nikitas are the prime locations for paragliding, offering panoramic views and favorable weather conditions. Rest assured, paragliding sessions adhere to the strictest safety standards, ensuring your carefree enjoyment of the magnificent scenery.
For adrenaline enthusiasts, it is recommended to book your paragliding session as soon as possible!
Read more at my article Best Things to Do in Lefkada.
Lefkada, the most popular tourist destination in Greece, offers convenient travel options for visitors. Although the island itself does not have an airport or main port, it is easily accessible through various means.
To reach Lefkada, travelers can choose to drive or take a bus across the bridge connecting the island to the mainland. The freedom of having a car or motorbike allows for flexible exploration without relying on bus schedules.
If flying is preferred, Aktion Airport in the nearby region of Preveza serves as the gateway. Flights from Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Crete connect to Aktion Airport, with additional summer flights from various European locations. From Preveza, buses or taxis can transport passengers to Lefkada via the bridge.
Ferry services are available from Ithaca, Kefalonia, and Meganisi, with arrivals at the ports of Nidri or Vassiliki. While public transportation is an option, the convenience and speed of reaching your destination are best achieved by having a car or taking a taxi from these ports.
It is essential to familiarize yourself with local transportation options to ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel and easy exploration of all the island’s attractions. We recommend affordable car rental services with excellent customer ratings at DiscoverCars.
Please note that there are no ferry connections between Lefkada and mainland locations, including Athens.
I recommend these travel resources for Greece that I personally use:
🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Greece. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Greece, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.
🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.
🚙 Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer from the airport and beetween destinations with Welcome Pickups. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.
🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Greece, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Greece. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.
📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.
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