This guide will help you understand the pros and cons of travelling to Lefkada. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from stunning beaches to transportation challenges.
Lefkada is a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and charming villages. The island offers a mix of natural beauty and authentic Greek culture.
Pros of Travelling to Lefkada
1. Easy Accessibility by Car
One major advantage of Lefkada is that you can reach it without a ferry. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easy to drive there. This is convenient for travelers who prefer not to rely on boat schedules. Driving to Lefkada is straightforward, and the road leading to the island offers scenic views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding landscapes.
2. Stunning Beaches
Lefkada is famous for its beaches.
- Porto Katsiki: Known for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue water. This beach is one of the most photographed in Greece. The name means “Goat Port,” possibly because only goats could reach it in the past. Today, visitors can access the beach via a steep staircase.
- Egremni: A long, sandy beach that feels secluded. It stretches for several kilometers and is surrounded by impressive cliffs. Accessing Egremni can be challenging due to the steps, but the effort is worth it for the pristine beauty.
- Kathisma: Popular for its accessibility and amenities. Kathisma is one of the most organized beaches on the island, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. It is easily accessible by car and provides facilities for water sports.
Check out our guide to Lefkada beaches – the top 10 beaches with detailed descriptions, tips, and more.
3. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
The island offers many outdoor activities.
- Hiking: There are many trails with beautiful views. The Lefkada trail network includes routes that pass through lush forests, mountainous terrains, and coastal paths. Popular hiking destinations include the waterfalls of Nidri and the mountain village of Karya.
- Sailing: The waters around Lefkada are perfect for sailing. The island is a hub for sailing enthusiasts, with numerous charter companies offering boats for hire. The nearby islands of Meganisi, Ithaca, and Kefalonia are popular sailing destinations.
- Windsurfing: Vassiliki Bay is a top spot for windsurfing. The bay’s wind conditions are ideal for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. The area has several windsurfing schools and rental shops.
4. Authentic Greek Experience
Lefkada offers an authentic Greek experience.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Lefkada’s cuisine includes specialties like “savoro” (fish in a vinegar-based sauce), “lentils from Englouvi,” and “bourdeto” (spicy fish stew). Local tavernas serve these dishes along with homemade wine and local cheese.
- Traditional Villages: Visit villages like Karya and Agios Nikitas for a glimpse of local life. Karya is known for its traditional architecture and handicrafts, especially embroidery. Agios Nikitas is a charming coastal village with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a small beach.
5. Connectivity to Nearby Islands
From Lefkada, you can easily visit nearby islands like Meganisi, Ithaca, and Kefalonia. This makes it a great base for island hopping. Regular ferry services and boat tours operate from Nidri, allowing you to explore these islands’ unique attractions and natural beauty.
These were the five pros of traveling to Lefkada; now let’s take a look at the cons of this trip.
Cons of Travelling to Lefkada
1. Limited International Flights
Lefkada does not have its own international airport. The nearest airport is Aktion National Airport, also known as Preveza Airport, located on the mainland in Preveza. This airport primarily serves domestic flights and a few international flights, mainly from European destinations during the summer months.
For travelers coming from outside Europe or from less-served European cities, reaching Lefkada might require multiple flight connections. This can increase travel time and complexity. After arriving at Aktion National Airport, you will need to take additional transportation to reach Lefkada, such as a rental car, taxi, or bus. This added leg of the journey can be inconvenient, especially for those with tight schedules or those traveling with young children.
2. Hilly Terrain and Transportation Challenges
The terrain in Lefkada is hilly. This can make getting around a bit challenging, especially if you are not used to driving on steep roads. Some of the island’s most beautiful spots, including certain beaches and mountain villages, are located on steep inclines. While this provides stunning views, it also means that driving can be more demanding, and parking may be limited in some areas.
3. Lack of High-Energy Nightlife
Lefkada is not known for its nightlife. If you are looking for lively clubs and bars, you might be disappointed. The nightlife here is more laid-back. There are a few bars and clubs in the town of Lefkada and in popular beach areas like Nidri and Vassiliki, but overall, the island is better suited for those seeking a relaxed evening with good food and conversation.
4. Limited Cultural and Historical Attractions
While Lefkada has some historical sites, it does not have as many as other Greek islands. If you are a history buff, you might find the options limited. Notable sites include the Castle of Agia Mavra and the Monastery of Faneromeni, but the island lacks extensive archaeological ruins or large museums compared to places like Crete or Rhodes.Nevertheless, we managed to compile a list of top things to do in Lefkada.
5. Increasing Development and Tourism
Lefkada is becoming more popular with tourists. This means that some areas are getting more developed. It might be harder to find secluded spots. Popular beaches and villages can become crowded during peak season, and ongoing construction projects aimed at improving tourist facilities might detract from the island’s natural beauty.
These are the 10 main pros and cons of traveling to Lefkada. We hope our guide helps you plan your perfect trip.