Serving as the capital of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada Town is perched on the north-east coast of the island. Its layout dates from the medieval period when the town was under Venetian rule and includes several historic stone churches that were built according to traditional architectural techniques.
Things to do in Lefkáda
Delve into the past at the Archaeological Museum of Lefkada, which houses artefacts dating from the Palaeolithic era to the late Roman period. Learn about the life of Lefkada’s islanders centuries ago while browsing the ancient coins, fishing equipment and agricultural tools on display. Ornate tomb monuments, stone urns and weaponry are also exhibited.
Stretching along a peninsula to the west of Lefkada Town is Spiaggia Agios Ioannis, a golden beach that’s popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers due to its windy conditions. For calmer waters, you can head to Ammoglossa, a small spit that lies directly north of Lefkada Town and whose name translates as “sand tongue”.
A short drive from Lefkada Town is the Faneromeni Monastery, a 17th-century religious centre that offers magnificent views across the northern side of the island. It was built on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Artemis and houses rare Byzantine icons, historic manuscripts and gospels in its on-site museum. In addition to its small zoo, the monastery complex also features a pilgrim’s tavern.
Getting around Lefkáda
Lefkada Town is around 30 minutes’ drive from Aktion International Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Daily buses make the five-hour journey from Athens to Lefkada Town and ferries connect from the island to Ithaca and Kefalonia. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around Lefkada, while Lefkada Town is compact enough to explore on foot.