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Getting Around Lefkada

Getting Around Lefkada

Lefkada Ionian Islands, Greece Travel Guide

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 secluded shores 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 more extended 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 paths from early morning until late evening. In the slower season, services become very limited. Public buses generally have steps and could not be completely 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 obtaining tickets from the driver.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Licensed taxis are typically silver or dark blue cars 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 extended journeys.
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, plus admission 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 checking out the surroundings. 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 latitude 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 avenues to secluded beaches or mountain villages are narrow, winding, and sharp.
  • Parking can challenge in popular towns (Lefkada Town, Nidri) and crowded beaches.
  • Drivers should be cautious of local driving practices.

Walking & Cycling

  • Lefkada Town's pedestrianized main street and waterfront promenade.
  • Limited dedicated bicycle paths; cycling on main roads can challenge.
  • Quieter inland paths or coastal paths away from major traffic are preferred for cycling.
  • Always wear a helmet and use reflective gear when cycling.
  • Wariness 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 hyperlinks to Kefalonia (Fiskardo) and Ithaca (Frikes).

Boat Excursions

Nidri Port is a major departure point for daily water tours to Meganisi and Skorpios.

No Rivers

Lefkada does not feature navigable rivers for transportation.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Lefkada has special methods to discover its coastal wonders.

Tour Buses & Services

  • No formal hop-on-hop-off bus service exists.
  • Local travel agencies offer structured day trips 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 major centers 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 exploring the island itself and swimming.
  • A popular method of undergoing the Ionian Sea's beauty.

Accessibility & Unique Transport

Mobility Access

Overall infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited.

Contact suppliers directly.

Seatrac Systems

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

A pleasant 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 particular exit fees or taxes are charged beyond ticket price.
  • For international flights, arrive 2 hours prior at Aktion Airport (PVK).
  • For ferries, get THERE 30-60 minutes before departure, especially 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 docks 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.