Just off the west coast of Greece, the island of Lefkada takes its name from the Greek word lefko, meaning white, and the soaring white cliffs along its southern coast, which provide a dramatic backdrop for those wishing to relax on the beach and indulge in the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The green of the verdant pine forests and olive groves cascades down from the mountains and throughout the valleys. Winding roads lead to age-old villages with cobblestone streets and whitewashed churches. Fishing boats land their catch at the quaint harbours, while authentic waterfront tavernas serve fresh delicacies like the flavourful mpourdeto (fish in chili sauce), and white wine from local vineyards. Boat trips offer laid-back adventures to hidden beaches inaccessible by road, as well as to neighbouring islands like Kefalonia, Meganisi, and Skorpios.

Lefkada Town itself is to the north of the island. Its archaeological museum provides a glimpse into the island’s history, while its narrow streets interspersed with bustling local stores open onto the busy marina.

The closest airport to the island of Lefkada is Aktion National Airport (PVK) in Preveza. Buses, taxis, and rental cars are available for the 30-minute journey. Lefkada is accessible by road — a causeway connects the island to the mainland. An adventure in its own right, the drive takes you past the Venetian fortress of Agia Mavra and crosses the floating bridge into Lefkada Town. Travellers flying into Athens Airport (ATH) can take connecting flights to Aktion or choose a 6-hour bus ride to the island instead. Public transport on the island is scarce, so a rental car will allow you to explore both the fishing ports and mountain villages.

The summer months are perfect for enjoying the hot sunshine on long sandy beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni. Temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius, with up to 14 hours of sunlight. The weather is still warm in September, making it an ideal time for those wishing to avoid the crowds and hotter days. Winter months bring more rainfall and cooler temperatures, closer to 5 degrees Celsius. In the spring, this translates into lush green fields with fragrant aromas from the wildflowers and herbs. Spring is also the best time to see the Dimosari waterfalls, close to the village of Nydri, as this is when they are at their most powerful.

The busiest time of the year is at the beginning of August, when Lefkada Town plays host to the International Folklore Festival. The streets come alive with people from around the world dressed in their national costumes. Traditional music and dancing fill the streets to promote peace across the nations.

Monastery of Faneromeni

Perched on the hillside in Frini, not far from Lefkada town, is the Monastery of Faneromeni, built in the 17th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the patron saint of the island. This tranquil monastery is the most important religious site on the island and is home to an Ecclesiastical Museum and a Nautical Museum.

Eglouvi

High in the mountains of Lefkada is the plateau of Eglouvi, which boasts traditional Volti stone huts and lentil fields. Farmers have been growing these rare lentils here for many generations, and on 6 August villagers gather for a special festival. After a service at the Greek Orthodox church of Agio Donatos, locals prepare the lentils for visitors, accompanied by music and dancing.

Lefkadian Traditional Wedding Event

Every summer, love is celebrated in style in the mountain village of Karya. For three days, villagers recreate a traditional wedding, from the matchmaking and the engagement to the ceremony itself. Exquisite costumes, enchanting music, enticing food, and enthusiastic dancing bring the many local customs to life.