Is Lefkada Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons to Go, and 5 to Make You Re-Consider

Planning a trip to the Mediterranean and wondering, is Lefkada worth visiting?

In our opinion, yes! Lefkada is one of the most naturally stunning, culturally authentic, and easily accessible of all the Greek islands and well worth a visit.

However, whether Lefkada is worth visiting for you is a separate question. We’ve broken down the pros and some of the cons to this popular Ionian island

Is Lefkada Worth Visiting for You?

We have rounded up the pros and cons of visiting this hidden gem in the central Mediterranean to help you decide once and for all, if Lefkada is worth visiting for you.

Often overshadowed by Cycladic darlings like Santorini, Mykonos, or Paros, the Ionian islands to the west of Mainland Greece offer a tranquil and authentic alternative to Greece’s brash and windy central archipelagos.

Lush vegetation, uncrowded beaches, Venetian architecture, and a more sedate way of life are just some of the reasons sunseekers make their way here each year.

Among the islands, each with its own distinct character and appeal, Lefkada offers its own special brand of island life and its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros and Cons of Lefkada

Deciding on whether visiting Lefkada is worth it is a personal choice, but we will help you by listing out what we think are the pros and cons of visiting Lefkada.

Pros of Visiting Lefkada

Breathtaking Beaches

Like so many of the Greek islands, Lefkada is blessed with an absolutely stunning coastline. Unbelievably clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and soaring white sea cliffs create spectacular scenes.

Although it is not as well known as some of Greece’s islands, Lefkada is home to more than its fair share of spellbinding beaches. Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma are some of the most famous, but there are endless coves, bays, and beaches to be discovered throughout Lefkada.

Natural Wonders

Apart from its beaches, Lefkada is blessed with many other impressive natural features. Sheer mountains rise vertically from the sea climbing to peaks more than 1,000 meters above the sea below.

Thanks to reliable rainfall in the Ionian, lush green hills, breathtaking waterfalls, and charming villages surrounded by olive groves dot the island’s interior. Winding up into the mountains of the interior, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Ionian before navigating back down along sheer cliffs high above the breathtaking beaches.

Sailing and Windsurfing

Lefkada is a haven for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.

The island’s strong and consistent wind, particularly in Vassiliki Bay, creates ideal conditions for all manner of personal sailcraft including windsurfing, kiteboarding, and small catamarans. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, Lefkada offers a wide range of windsurfing and sailing schools to cater to all skill levels.

For yacht sailors, it will come as no surprise that Lefkada has long been a popular cruising destination with a sailing pedigree stretching back to Greek mythology. Liveaboards and charter boats regularly set sail for Lefkada which has plenty of islands to explore, protected anchorages, and marine services. For many sailors (ourselves included) the calm conditions of the Ionian are a major drawcard over the windy Cyclades.

Greek Cuisine

Greece is renowned for its cuisine, and Lefkada is no exception. The island offers an array of traditional Greek delicacies. Lefkada, like the other islands of Ionian, has a distinct cuisine and typical dishes with an Italian influence, thanks to the Venetians. Many of the dishes focus on the abundant fresh seafood available around the island. Additionally, grilled meats and vibrant Mediterranean salads are featured on the authentic menus of the traditional local tavernas.

Our experience dining in Lefkada is that the restaurants are of higher quality and better value than some restaurants on more popular islands which can afford to trade on location and foot traffic alone.

Serene Atmosphere

Compared to some Greek islands, Lefkada retains a serene and unspoiled atmosphere. It is less crowded, less touristic, and has less of a focus on partying making it an excellent choice for families or for those seeking a peaceful and authentic Greek experience. The island’s laid-back vibe allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with friendly locals, and explore the natural wonders of the island.

Nearby Islands

Lefkada is perfectly positioned to explore many of the surrounding Ionian islands. Discover the mythology of Ithaca, the beauty of Paxos and Anti Paxos, and the impressive Venetian architecture of Corfu.

Accessibility

While Lefkada is an island, it is connected to the mainland by a bridge, which makes it easily accessible by car. Just 50 kilometers from the nearest airport in Preveza, the ease of access is one of the main drawcards to visitors coming from countries that offer direct flights to Preveza.

Cons of Visiting Lefkada

Limited International Flights

While it is easy to reach the island from Preveza airport, Preveza receives only limited international flights, with the majority of those arriving from the UK and the Netherlands, and a handful of flights arriving from other European cities. Given the limited number of direct flights, and without its own airport, the number of connections it can take to reach Lefkada can create an impediment for those travelers short on time or with inflexible dates.

Hilly Terrain

The island is known for its hilly terrain which, while spectacular, can make getting around difficult for some travelers. Lefkada’s unique geography can present a challenge for those with limited mobility or physical disabilities. Additionally, navigating the steep, winding, and narrow roads in a rental car or scooter can be daunting and visitors may find Lefkada’s public transportation lacking compared to some islands (such as Corfu).

Lack of Nightlife

If you are looking for all-night parties and heaving clubs, Lefkada may not be the ideal destination for you. While the island does offer a few bars and clubs, it lacks the high-energy nightlife found on some of the Greek islands better known for their hedonistic lifestyle. Lefkada’s focus is more on relaxation and natural beauty rather than late-night revelry.

Limited Cultural Attractions

Compared to some other Greek destinations, Lefkada has a relatively limited number of cultural attractions and historical sites. While there are a few noteworthy places to visit, such as the medieval Agia Mavra Castle and the Archaeological Museum in Lefkada Town, the island is more renowned for its natural wonders and outdoor activities. Travelers seeking a rich cultural or historical experience may need to look elsewhere.

Increasing Development

While for many years one of the major appeals of Lefkada has been the unspoiled beauty and lack of rampant tourism on the island, recent years have seen an increase in Lefkada’s popularity, and tourism has rapidly increased on the island. With the uptick in tourism, the speed of development has also increased. Those expecting to find the still sleepy villages of 20 and 30 years ago may be disappointed by the increased tourism and development.

Where is Lefkada?

Located in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada is situated just off the western coast of mainland Greece. It is 30 kilometers south of the coastal city of Preveza and 350 km northwest of Athens.

Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge, making it easily accessible by road.

How to Get to Lefkada?

How to Get to Lefkada by Air

The nearest airport to Lefkada is Aktion National Airport (PVK). From various international airports, you can book a flight to Aktion Airport, which is located in Preveza on the mainland, near the island.

After landing, you can take a taxi or rent a car to travel to Lefkada, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Most direct flights leave from the UK and the Netherlands, with a handful from other major European hubs, and a couple originating in the Middle East.

How to Get to Lefkada by Car

If you are traveling from mainland Greece or neighboring countries, you can reach Lefkada by car. The island is connected to the mainland by a floating bridge, making it accessible by road.

From Athens, you can drive westward towards the city of Patras, and then follow the signs to Lefkada. Lefkada is 4 hours from Athens, 4.5 hours from Thessaloniki, 2.5 hours from Igoumenitsa, and 2.5 hours from Patra.

How to Get to Lefkada by Bus

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus to Lefkada from various cities in Greece. Athens and Thessaloniki are two major hubs with direct bus routes to Lefkada. The bus journey duration depends on the distance and the specific route. As an example, Athens to Lefkada takes 4 – 5 hours.

How to Get to Lefkada by Ferry

Lefkada is also accessible by ferry, particularly if you are coming from other Ionian Islands. There are ferry services connecting Lefkada with nearby islands such as Corfu, Kefalonia, and Ithaca. The frequency of ferry services may vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check the schedules in advance.

How to Get to Lefkada by Private Boat

Lefkada is a popular sailing destination and many people opt to visit with their own boat, by chartering a bareboat or hiring a skipper and charter boat to take them around Lefkada.

You can rent a boat on Lefkada, or from nearby ports in Kefalonia or Preveza.

What to Do in Lefkada?

Enjoy the Beach

Lefkada is renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Some of the must-visit beaches include Porto Katsiki, Egremni, Kathisma, Agios Nikitas, and Mylos. You can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the refreshing waters, and soak up the sun.

Explore Lefkada Town

Take a stroll through the charming Lefkada Town, the capital of the island. Discover the narrow streets, traditional houses, and vibrant squares. Visit the Agia Mavra Fortress, built in the 14th century, and the Archaeological Museum to learn about the island’s history.

Adventure Sports

Lefkada is perhaps the adventure sports capital of the Ionian.

You can try activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and sailing in various locations around the island. Vassiliki, in the southern part of Lefkada, is especially famous for its windsurfing conditions.

High in the mountains of Lefkada’s interior, paragliding is another popular activity that sees participants taking in the best views the island has to offer.

Sail to Nearby Islands

Sailing and boating around Lefkada and the nearby islands are very popular and there are plenty of opportunities to rent a sailboat or motor boat to explore the region. You can visit Meganisi, a picturesque island with charming villages and secluded beaches, or Skorpios the famous private island that belonged to Aristotle Onassis. Further away, Ithaca, home of Odysseus the mythological Greek hero, Zakinthos, with one of Greece’s most recognizable landmarks, Shipwreck Beach, and Paxos one of the most beautiful Islands in Greece are all a short ferry ride away.

Explore the Island’s Interior

Rent a car, scooter, ATV, bicycle or just grab a sturdy pair of walking shoes and discover Lefkada’s diverse landscape. Visit the Nydri Waterfalls (Dimosari Waterfalls), trek through the Faneromeni Monastery trail, or hike to the summit of Mount Stavrota for panoramic views.

Enjoy Traditional Cuisine

Indulge in the local gastronomy of Lefkada. The dishes in the Ionian are known for their Italian influence thanks to the Venetians. Lefkada is particularly proud of its heritage and most tavernas advertise local specialties.

There are many local dishes to try during your time in Lefkada. Sofigado is a rich, sweet, and sour beef stew with quinces and petimezi. Savoro is fried fish with vinegar and garlic sauce. Bourdeto is another fish stew with tomatoes, potatoes, capers, and white wine. Pastitsada combines meat with pasta and rich tomato sauce. Finally, don’t forget to try the island’s famous produce as well including wines, cheeses, Egklouvi lentils, thyme honey, and of course olive oil.

Visit Monasteries and Churches

Explore the religious and cultural heritage of Lefkada by visiting its monasteries and churches. The Monastery of Faneromeni, perched on a hilltop overlooking the town, is a significant spiritual site. The Church of Agios Ioannis Antzoussis is another notable attraction, famous for its location on a cliff edge.

Where to Stay in Lefkada

As more and more tourists flock to Lefkada, the hotel and accommodation industry has exploded. The ongoing development of new private villas and holiday accommodations can be seen throughout the island.

As a result of the ongoing development, there is hot competition for tourist business and great deals on extremely comfortable and well-located accommodations throughout the island, no matter what you are looking for, these are some of the best spots to stay on the island.

Apartments Avra

Known for their helpful staff, comfort, and some of the island’s cheapest accommodation, Avra Apartments, just outside the main town of Lefka offers a wonderful, budget-minded option to visit the island. In high season studios start from as little as $50 a night.

Ponti Beach Hotel

300 meters from its namesake, Ponti Beach the hotel is perfectly located to take advantage of the exciting holiday town of Vasiliki and all it has to offer. With comfortable clean rooms, plenty of services and facilities, fantastic views over Ponti Beach, and attentive staff, Ponti Beach Hotel offers some of the best value for money accommodation on the Island with rooms starting at $80 per night in high season.

Georgia Villas

Those that prize views and privacy will be tempted by Georgia Villas in Drymon high above Agios Nikitas. Each of the traditionally built stone villas features a fireplace, air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace to take in the spectacular views of the sunset each evening. Although you will need a car to travel from this location to Lefkada’s towns and beaches the views are truly worth it. With one-bedroom villas starting from $90 per night, Georgia Villas also offer wonderful value.

Elianthi Luxury Apartments

With four-person apartments starting from less than $100, these extremely comfortable apartments near Limni Beach are newly built and feature modern furnishings.

Calm View

Located on the green hillside of Agios Petros in Lefkada’s interior, Calm View is perfectly located to explore the southern parts of Lefkada Island such as the picturesque beaches of Gremni and Porto Katsiki. A family-run business Calm View is particularly well regarded for its impeccable Greek hospitality. Rooms in Calm View start around $125 per night in high season.

Porto Galini Seaside Resort & Spa

Travelers looking for resort-style accommodation should check out Porto Galini which offers swimming pools, a spa, a gym, tennis and volleyball courts, a yoga pavilion, and more across 40,000m2 of landscaped grounds, situated on a secluded beach. Well-appointed rooms open to a balcony with sea views. Accommodation starts from $200 per night in high season.

Katouna Suites

If you’re looking for a little luxury on Lefkada, then this adults-only, boutique hotel is perfect. With suites starting from $300 per night in high season the rates are slightly above the island average but they offer large, beautifully appointed hotel rooms with magnificent views over Lygia.

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Hopefully, we have helped you decide the burning question…”Is Lefkada Worth Visiting?”

But…if you still have questions please let us know in the comments below!

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