Getting Around Lefkada. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

The public bus service, operated by KTEL Lefkadas, serves as the main mode of public transport on the island. These buses connect Lefkada Town to major villages like Nidri, Vasiliki, Agios Nikitas, Karya, Sivota, and popular beaches like Kathisma. Services to more remote beaches may be less frequent. The buses are generally comfortable and air-conditioned.

Tickets are purchased either directly from the driver or from the bus station ticket office for longer routes. Fares are fixed and based on distance. There are no daily or multi-day passes. Operating hours vary significantly by season, with high season (July-August) seeing hourly services on popular routes from early morning until late evening. During the low season, services become very limited. Public buses generally have steps and may not be fully accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.

Bus System Highlights

Main form of public transport.
Connects Lefkada Town to major villages and beaches.
Tickets sold by driver or at station; no multi-day passes.
Schedules vary by season; check for current times.

Check Schedules

Always verify latest bus schedules online or at the station, as they change.

Arrive Early

Buses can be crowded in high season. Arrive a few minutes early at the stop.

Exact Change

Have exact change or small Euro notes if purchasing tickets from the driver.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are typically silver or dark blue vehicles with a "TAXI" sign.
Hail on the street, find at designated taxi stands, or call a local company.
Fares are regulated and metered. Agree on approximate price for longer trips.

Payment & Safety

Cash is the preferred payment method; card payments are not always accepted.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not operational in Lefkada.
Taxis are generally safe. Always use licensed taxis for fair pricing.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Offers flexibility, comfort, luggage carrying, and access to remote areas.

Scooter/Motorcycle

Easy parking, nimble on narrow roads, fuel efficient. Requires appropriate license.

Quad Bike/ATV

Good for off-road or rough terrain, can be fun to drive. Helmet use mandatory.

Bicycle

Eco-friendly, good exercise, useful for local exploration. Limited range on hills.

Driving & Road Conditions

Lefkada's connection to the mainland by a causeway and floating bridge makes it easily accessible by car, granting flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.

Requirements & Regulations

Valid driver's license from your home country.
Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with their national license.
Credit card for security deposit. Minimum driving age typically 21-25.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Helmets are mandatory for motorcyclists.

Road Quality & Parking

Main roads are generally well-maintained and simple to navigate.
Smaller roads to secluded beaches or mountain villages are narrow, winding, and steep.
Parking can challenge in popular towns (Lefkada Town, Nidri) and busy beaches.
Drivers should be cautious of local driving habits.

Walking & Cycling

Lefkada Town's pedestrianized main street and waterfront promenade.
Limited dedicated bicycle paths; cycling on main roads can challenge.
Quieter inland roads or coastal paths away from major traffic are preferred for cycling.

Always wear a helmet and use reflective gear when cycling.
Caution is advisable on busy main roads, or very steep, unlit roads at night.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Hubs

Vasiliki Port links to Kefalonia (Fiskardo) and Ithaca (Frikes).

Boat Excursions

Nidri Port is a main departure point for daily boat trips to Meganisi and Skorpios.

No Rivers

Lefkada does not feature navigable rivers for transportation.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Lefkada has unique ways to explore its coastal wonders.

Tour Buses & Services

No formal hop-on-hop-off bus service exists.
Local travel agencies offer organized day tours by bus to specific popular sites.
These tours offer a simple way to visit multiple attractions without self-driving.
Tours usually include pick-up and drop-off from major resorts.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Nidri and Vasiliki serve as main hubs for small boat taxis.
Offer transfers to nearby beaches accessible only by sea (Egremni, Porto Katsiki).
Numerous companies offer full-day boat trips from Nidri for island exploration and swimming.
A popular way to experience the Ionian Sea's beauty.

Accessibility & Unique Transport

Mobility Access

Overall infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited.

Contact providers directly.

Seatrac Systems

Available at certain beaches, allowing wheelchair users to enter the sea.

A welcome addition.

No Funiculars

Lefkada has no cable cars, funiculars, or other unique mechanical transport systems.

Focus on traditional transport.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are charged beyond ticket price.
For international flights, arrive 2 hours prior at Aktion Airport (PVK).
For ferries, arrive 30-60 minutes before departure, notably with a vehicle.

Airport/Station Facilities

Aktion Airport offers basic facilities: check-in, security, small lounge, cafe, duty-free.
Do not expect extensive amenities or shopping options.
Ferry ports have minimal facilities, usually just ticket offices and small waiting areas.

Safety Considerations

Taxi Safety

Taxis in Lefkada are generally safe.
Always use licensed taxis to make certain fair pricing and accountability.
Confirm your destination and approximate fare before beginning the journey.

Road Safety

Roads to secluded beaches can be steep, winding, and narrow; drive carefully.
Parking can challenge in popular towns and at busy beaches; avoid restricted areas.
Be aware of local driving habits, which can appear aggressive.

Getting Around Lefkada