Lefkada Island Attractions, Travel & Hotel Guide

Known as the pearl of the Aegean, Lefkada Island is a paradise that enchants you with its clear turquoise waters, magnificent beaches and natural beauties. Located in the Ionian Sea in the west of Greece, this island offers visitors unforgettable moments with its elegant coastal towns, historical riches and unique landscapes. The beaches of Lefkada are like works of art, with the world-famous Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches stealing the hearts of nature lovers and sea lovers. You will feel like you have traveled back in time, especially when exploring the old harbor, castles and narrow streets of Lefkada City. Lefkada is also an indispensable address for water sports enthusiasts. Offering various water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and kayaking, the island is an ideal route for those who want to enjoy the sea. When you step here, you will find yourself in a world full of peace.

Unknown Things About Lefkada Island?

- The island has a land connection with a bridge. Lefkada Island is the only Ionian Island connected to mainland Greece by a bridge. This means that transportation is provided by road between the island and the mainland.

- Windsurfing Paradise. Lefkada is an ideal destination for windsurfing. Especially beaches like Vassiliki and Agios Ioannis bring together windsurfing enthusiasts from all over the world.

- Lefkada is where the famous Greek poet Sappho lived. It is said that Sappho jumped from this island for the sake of a lovesick lover and because of this event, Lefkada is also known as the “Island of Love”.

-Hosts Legends. Lefkada is also home to mythology and legends. For example, there is a legend that Odysseus' ship was sunk in Lefkada on his way back from Ithaca.

-Home to one of the most famous beaches in the world. Porto Katsiki Beach is considered one of the most famous beaches in the world. It has a spectacular view with clear turquoise waters and white sands.

-Museums and Cultural Heritage, Lefkada is also notable for its historical and cultural heritage. Such as the Archaeology Museum, Folklore Museum and many historical churches.

-Lentils produced in Egklouvi village of Lefkada have a very valuable place in the island's cuisine. Reflecting the traditional lifestyle of the island, this product is flavored with garlic, olive oil and oregano, which are frequently used in Greek cuisine, and turns into a perfect dish. Every year, locals organize the Lentil Festival to keep the spirituality of this product alive and promote it to the whole world.

Lefkada Island Events and Dates Lefkada Island Festivals

The International Folklore Festival, held every year in August, brings together dancers and musicians from all over the world. Full of colorful costumes and energetic performances, this event celebrates Lefkada's cultural diversity.

Lefkas International Short Film Festival, held in September, brings together short filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts. The festival showcases local and international short films and celebrates the art of cinema.

Sailing Races, Sailing races organized in the summer months provide exciting moments for sea enthusiasts. Especially in Vasiliki and Nidri regions, such events are frequently organized.

Lentil Festival, organized in Eglouvi village, celebrates the harvest of the island's famous lentils. You can taste local delicacies and enjoy traditional Greek music.

Wine Festival, organized to celebrate Lefkada's local wines, introduces visitors to the island's wine production culture. You can have the opportunity to taste local wines and participate in various fun activities.

Lefkada Island Public Holidays

Epiphany, Greek Independence Day, Easter, Christmas.

The Best Time to Enjoy Lefkada Island?

- The summer months are the most popular and lively time in Lefkada. During this period, you can enjoy warm weather and sunny days. It is an ideal time for swimming, sunbathing and water sports on the beaches. However, you should keep in mind that during the summer months the island can be more crowded and prices can be higher.

- The spring and fall months are ideal for those looking for a quieter and more peaceful vacation. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and the flow of crowded tourists is reduced. You can have a pleasant time on the beaches and nature walks. Prices are also more affordable than in the summer months.

- It is also a great opportunity to visit the island when there are various festivals and events organized in Lefkada. For example, the International Folklore Festival, Lefkada International Short Film Festival are suitable for participating in events such as, make sure to follow the dates before you go.

Don't Return Without Doing These On Lefkada Island!

-Visit Porto Katsiki Beach. Porto Katsiki is one of the most famous beaches in the world. You will have unforgettable moments with its white sands, turquoise sea and impressive rock formations.

-Watch the sunset at Egremni Beach. Egremni Beach is famous for its long sandy beach and spectacular sunset view. Watching the sunset here in the evening is an unforgettable experience.

-Don't Return Without Taking a Sea Tour from Nidri Village. Sea tours from Nidri village are a perfect opportunity to explore the other small islands around the island. You can visit islands such as Meganisi, Skorpios and Kefalonia.

-Windsurfing or Kitesurfing. Lefkada is the perfect place for windsurfing and kitesurfing on windy days. Vasiliki Beach is especially popular for windsurfers.

-Swimming at Dimosari Waterfall, Dimosari Waterfall is a natural beauty located in the interior of the island. You can spend a relaxing day swimming in its cool waters and enjoying nature.

-Dinner in Agios Nikitas Village. Agios Nikitas is one of the island's beautiful villages, famous for its colorful streets, traditional tavernas and seaside restaurants. Having dinner here is an essential part of the Lefkada experience.

-Night Stroll in Lefkada City. Lefkada City is a place to explore with its history, harbor and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll the streets at night and discover the local life and nightlife.

Places to visit in Lefkada Island

Nidri Village and Harbor, Nidri is one of the popular tourist areas of Lefkada. Its lively harbor, seaside restaurants and cafes attract visitors.

Lefkada City, Lefkada City, the capital of the island, is a place waiting to be discovered with its historical texture, harbor and shopping opportunities. The archaeological museum and castle ruins in the city are also worth seeing.

Agios Nikitas Village, Agios Nikitas is one of the most charming and traditional villages of the island. The colorful streets, traditional taverns and the beach on the coast fascinate visitors.

Karya Village, Karya Village, located in the interior of Lefkada, is remarkable with its traditional architecture and atmosphere. The Panagia Church and Folklore Museum in the village are worth a visit.

Dimosari Waterfall, Dimosari Waterfall, located in the interior of the island, relaxes its visitors with its natural beauty and cool water.

Lefkada Monasteries, There are several important monasteries on the island. You should especially see Panagia Faneromeni Monastery and Panagia Evangelistria Monastery.

Apolpaina Archaeological Site, The archaeological site in Apolpaina, located in the north of the island, is interesting for those who want to discover the remains of the ancient period.

The Most Beautiful Beaches on Lefkada Island

Porto Katsiki Beach is one of the most famous and stunning beaches on Lefkada Island. Located in the southwest of the island, in a bay surrounded by high cliffs, this beach is like a piece of paradise with its unique natural beauty and crystal clear sea. It mesmerizes its visitors with its unique natural beauty.

Egremni Beach, located in the southwest of the island, in a bay surrounded by steep cliffs, this beach captivates with its long and wide sandy beach, magnificent sea and dramatic natural beauty. The beach usually offers sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. However, other services such as food and drinks may be limited, so don't forget to bring your own essentials.

Lefkada Island Food and Drink Recommendations

Egklouvi Lentils, produced in the village of Egklouvi in Lefkada, have a very valuable place in the island's cuisine. This product, which reflects the traditional lifestyle of the island, is flavored with garlic, olive oil and oregano, which are frequently used in Greek cuisine, and turns into a perfect dish. We strongly recommend you to try this dish at Ta Lytrata.

- Ladopita is a must-try olive oil pie in Lefkada. Ladopita, which is very tasty and filling, can be found in bakeries around the island. The place where the most delicious ladopita is made is Syvota Bakery.

-Madolato is another one of the delicious desserts you can taste in Lefkada. This special flavor, which is a kind of nougat, was introduced to the island during the Venetian period as it was the dessert of aristocrats in the past. Honey, one of the main ingredients of Lefkada desserts, has a special place in every home and is also used in madolato. Made from honey, almonds and meringue, madolato can be found in almost every shop in Lefkada. It goes without saying that the most delicious madolato is made in To Loukoumadaki. 

- Taverna Akrogiali in the village of Agios Nikitas serves delicious seafood and olive oil appetizers. The fish and seafood dishes are especially delicious in this seafront restaurant.

- Rachi Restaurant, located in the village of Exanthia, this panoramic restaurant offers delicious food and a spectacular view. Rachi serves the most delicious traditional Greek cuisine and is ideal for a romantic meal, especially at sunset.

- Klimataria Taverna is located in the village of Caria and serves authentic Greek dishes made with local ingredients. The traditional village soup and homemade cakes are especially delicious.

- Patisseries and Café Corners, You can enjoy freshly baked sweets, pastries and traditional Greek coffee at the patisseries and café corners in Lefkada Town. There are many options around the main square and the harbor.

- Spicy Lefkada sausage and salami, Lefkada's spicy sausages and salami are quite famous. You can taste these local delicacies in fine restaurants and traditional taverns in different parts of the island.

Where are the entertainment venues on Lefkada Island, what are the recommendations?

Club Hollywood, this nightclub in Nidri is one of the most famous entertainment venues on the island. It is well known for its live music performances and DJ art performances.

Bacchus Cocktail Bar, located in Lefkada City, this popular bar is known for its delicious cocktails and lively atmosphere. Open until late at night.

Blu Cafe Bar, located in the village of Agios Nikitas, this beach bar is the ideal place to relax and watch the sunset after a fun day at the beach. Live music events and thematic parties are organized.

Tips for Shopping in Lefkada Island

Lefkada Island is rich in traditional handicrafts and art products. There are many shops and boutiques where you can find traditional handicrafts, especially hand-woven carpets, ceramics, lace work and wood carvings. Antique shops and antique stores are other places where you can find antique furniture, handmade vintage items, antique clocks and other interesting items. You can find rare items here.

Where is Lefkada Island and how to get there from Turkey?

It is an island in the geographical region of the Ionian Islands in Greece. There are several options to go to Lefkada Island from Turkey.

By plane, the first step is to fly to Athens or other major cities in Greece. There are direct or connecting flights from Turkey to Athens. Then, you can travel by road or bus from Athens to Lefkada Island.

Rent a Car, After flying to Athens or another Greek city, you can rent a car and drive directly to Lefkada. To reach Lefkada Island by land, you can go to the city of Preveza on the mainland and from there cross to Lefkada Island by bridge or ferry.

By ferry, In some periods, especially during the summer months, there are ferry services from some ports in Turkey directly to Lefkada Island. You can check the information of ferry companies and travel agencies to check these ferry schedules and choose a suitable route.

No matter which option you choose, it is important to plan ahead for transportation to Lefkada Island and research transportation options that suit your travel dates. 

 Visit the link for Lefkada Accommodation and Small and Boutique Hotels Recommendations!