Getting around Lefkada

🚌 By Bus

Look at the >KTEL Lefkada website for current timetables (which change throughout the year). The routes are shown below (using the KTEL spellings for villages). All run from the bus station in Lefkada Town and first stop at the main bus stop near the marina entrance.

Bus and ferry destinations (topological not literal lines)

The red routes (1-3 times a day) are usually run just morning and lunchtime, so are not ideal for getting back after a one-way walk. If relying on bus best base yourself in Lefkada Town or possibly Nidri.

Bus and walking itinerary suggestions:

All these routes take advantage of the east coast bus to Nidri and Vlycho that has a frequent service right to the end of the day. Also tavernas to sit and wait after your walk.

Always check the official >KTEL Lefkada website as it changes often.

🚗 By Car

Exploring Lefkada by car is one of the best ways to see the whole island at your own pace.

The main circular route runs:
Lefkada Town → Nidri → Vasiliki → Chortata → back via Lazarata (high route) or Agios Nikitas (coastal route).

Other recommended roads include:

  • Lazarata → Karya → Eglouvi – scenic and relatively easy to drive.
  • Mt Elati crossing (east-west or north-south) – offers stunning views if you have the time for the narrow, twisting and steep mountain roads.

⚠️ Be aware:

  • Roads through Eglouvi and Agios Ilias are particularly narrow – drive with care.
  • Access roads to west coast beaches (especially between Kalamitsi and Egremni) are steep and extremely winding. In summer parking is a nightmare – please don’t block or use passing places – and be patient waiting for others.

Car Hire Tips:

  • Avoid wide vehicles – narrow roads and limited passing spots make small cars a better choice.
  • 4x4s are generally unnecessary (and big) but high ground clearance can be useful for bumpy tracks.
  • Hire from the airport, Lefkada Town, Nidri, or Vasiliki – many companies offer hotel delivery and pick-up.
  • Prices vary greatly, so it’s worth shopping around and check exactly what is included.

🛑 Please drive carefully – Lefkada is a small island with rural charm. Take it slow, especially around blind corners. Watch out for goats and sheep crossing the road!

🚕 By Taxi

Taxis are readily available across the island:

  • Taxi ranks in Lefkada Town (by the marina), Nidri, and Vasiliki (both near the ports).
  • Or just call one of several services to book a ride.

🔍 Tip: Some taxi services mainly cater to airport transfers and use large vehicles not ideal for mountain roads. Always ask before booking.

🛥️ By Boat

Ferries and boat trips are another great way to get around:

  • Ferries:
  • Day Trips (summer only):
    • Depart from Vasiliki, Nidri, and Agios Nikitas
    • Visit west coast beaches and nearby islands
    • Some let you hop off and hike back – e.g. Vasiliki to Porto Katsiki
    • Water taxis run from Nidri to Meganissi, although significantly more than ferry.

🗨️ Just head down to the local quayside and ask the boat operators about schedules and routes.

  • Boat hire:
  • Rent ribs or motor day boats from ports and beaches primarily on the sheltered east of the island: Nikiana, Nidri, Dessimi and others. You don’t need a license for 30 horsepower or less but best to have some experience with boats. Hire a skipper and you can then relax and go even faster. A trip over to the beach tavernas of nearby islands with a swim off the back makes a good day. Beware north-westerly winds often blow up in mid afternoons so plan your trip home.
  • Sailing. Many yacht hire companies, mostly renting for a week. Join a flotilla if less experienced, although you will need certificates unless part of a training package. Literally hundreds of boats in the Inland Sea.

🚲 By Bike

Hire a bicycle in either Lefkada Town, Nidri, Karya or Vasiliki. Chose an e-bike if heading into the island interior (best bit). Chose a mountain bike if going along the many unmade tracks (see our trails for suggestions).

You will see many other bikes as you pedal around. It is becoming more popular as a means of seeing the island. You can join paid tours for guided adventures.

You can also hire motor bikes or quad bikes. Wearing a helmet is compulsory and police will enforce. Take care as many a holiday has come to grief.

By Paraglider

Companies offer twin paraglide rides from the west coast hills down to the beaches. The Fly-Me bar is a hip place to watch the sunset and paragliders taking off directly from the bar.

Fly-Me bar


Guided Tours

If you want someone to take care of all this for you then join a guided group.