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Self-Drive Tour: Lefkada – The Ionian Without a Ferry

Not Rated
Duration

4-day

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

Lefkada is the only Ionian island you reach without a ferry: a floating bridge connects it to the mainland. That makes it the ideal island destination by car — you get in at Athens or Thessaloniki and get out at beaches that rival the best in the Mediterranean.

The self-drive route

From the Ionia Odos you exit towards Aktio and cross the floating bridge onto Lefkada. The road to the west coast (Kalamitsi → Athani → Porto Katsiki) is mountainous with dramatic views and needs care. The east side (Nydri, Lygia) is smooth and quick. Daily small boats leave from Nydri and Vasiliki for Meganisi, Ithaca and Kefalonia.

History

One theory identifies Lefkada with Homer’s Ithaca — the debate remains open. At Cape Lefkatas stood the temple of Apollo Leukatas, from which, by tradition, Sappho is said to have leapt. The island passed through Venetian, French and British hands; the capital retains distinctive earthquake-resistant architecture in wood and corrugated iron.

Highlights

Porto Katsiki and Egremni, two of Greece’s most photographed beaches; Kathisma and Agios Nikitas; Nydri and its waterfalls; the mountain village of Karya with its embroidery tradition; Meganisi, reached by small boat; and Vasiliki, a world-renowned windsurfing destination.

Food

Lefkada’s cuisine combines island and mainland traditions: sofrito, bourdeto, fresh fish, ladotyri cheese, lentils from Eglouvi, and the island’s famous salami. Wines from the local Vardea grape variety are a regional specialty. In the mountain villages the food turns simpler and homelier.

Nightlife

Lefkada town has a lively pedestrian market with bars and taverns. Nydri is the most touristy and lively spot, Vasiliki has an international crowd thanks to windsurfing, and Agios Nikitas combines picturesque charm with an evening buzz. The atmosphere stays family-friendly compared to other islands.

Useful information

Currency: Euro· Time zone: Greek time· Access: by road only, via the floating bridge — no ferry needed. ~4 hours from Athens via the Ionia Odos, ~5 hours from Thessaloniki. Best time to visit: June and September; in August the west-coast beaches fill up early in the morning.

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Price and availability last updated: 20 September 2026

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  • Accommodation at selected properties with breakfast
  • Suggested route and sightseeing itinerary
  • Office support before and during your trip
  • Transport to/from the destination — you travel in your own car
  • Fuel, tolls and green card insurance
  • Taxes, surcharges and fees where not stated
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance fees to museums and sights
  • Meals and drinks (other than breakfast)
  • Optional excursions and guided tours
  • Personal expenses and anything not listed under "Included"

Levkada

All year round

Up to 4 days

Islands
Paralia & Chalarosi

Greece

Individual trips
Self-drive

Athens
Thessaloniki

Tour's Location

What is the best time of year for this trip?

This trip is tailored to you, so you choose the dates yourself. We're happy to advise you on the best season for this destination and how weather, prices and crowds change throughout the year — just let us know roughly when you're thinking of travelling.

What does the price include?

The essentials included are:

  • Accommodation with breakfast
  • Suggested route & sightseeing itinerary
  • Office support

Transport is not included — this is a trip in your own car. The full list of what is and isn't included is in the "Included / Not included" section of the page.

Is the "From €X" price what I'll actually pay?

Not necessarily. The "From €X" price is the lowest price currently available, based on flight and hotel availability for those specific dates. Since availability changes daily, the final price for your trip may differ. We'll send you a final, written quote before you're charged anything, once you tell us the dates you're interested in.

Why does the price change depending on the date?

Flight and hotel prices change daily depending on the season, demand, day of the week and how far in advance you book. That's why the price you see is indicative — the earlier you tell us your dates, the easier it is for us to secure the best possible price.

How much does a single room cost?

The single-room supplement varies by hotel and destination and is included in the price/quote you receive for your specific dates. If you're travelling alone, let us know from the start so the quote includes the correct single-room price right away.

When do I pay for my trip?

Payment is made immediately upon booking. For certain properties with their own payment policy (e.g. a deposit or a specific payment deadline), we will inform you explicitly before you proceed, so you know exactly the terms.

If I book now, is the price locked in?

Yes — once your booking is completed, the price is fixed and is not affected by later changes in flight or hotel prices. Availability and price can only change before your booking is finalised.

Is there a surcharge if I depart from a different city?

As this is a trip in your own car, there is no departure surcharge — you start from wherever suits you.

What travel documents do I need?

For your trip within Greece, a valid ID card or passport is enough. If you're travelling by air, you'll need an official photo ID for airport checks. For minors travelling, please check what documentation may be required.

Can I change dates or cancel?

Changes and cancellations follow the terms of the airlines, hotels and suppliers booked on your behalf, so the cost depends on how close to departure we are and each fare's rules. Let us know as early as possible and we'll look for the least costly solution. The general terms of participation apply to every booking.

Is travel insurance included?

Travel insurance is not included in the price unless explicitly stated in the page's inclusions. We strongly recommend it, especially for trips outside the European Union, so that medical care, cancellation and luggage loss are covered. We can arrange it for you — just ask when booking.

Can the trip be customised?

Yes — this is an individual trip, not a group departure. There's no fixed itinerary or coach schedule: you travel on your own, at your own pace. We can change the overnight stays, the hotel category, add or remove destinations, and arrange transfers, car hire or private guided tours.

How do I book?

Send us a request through the form on this page, call us, or visit our office. We'll get back to you with availability and a written quote before anything is charged.

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