How do you get to Meganissi?

This little island has no airport of its own, which is one of the features that keeps it so green and peaceful. Travel is pretty straightforward however: you fly into Preveza airport, which is on the Greek mainland just opposite Lefkada. On arrival you transfer to Perigali just beside Nidri on Lefkada, then take a ferry (or if you’re staying in one of our villas we’ll usually arrange a sea taxi for you) over to Spilia on Meganissi. The crossing takes around 30 minutes and you can then pick up your hire car on Meganissi – simple!

Should I hire a car on Meganissi?

Car hire will give you by far the greatest freedom to get around Meganissi, and our holidays on Meganissi all have a hire car included for convenience.

Can I rent a boat without a licence on Meganissi?

Yes! Regulations in Greece means that people over 18 can rent and drive a small boat up to 30 to 40 horsepower. You’ll get some instructions and safety guidelines from the rental company, which will include any off-limits areas for the boats, and you’ll need to have a passport or similar ID, plus sometimes a credit card deposit for any damages plus fuel, which is usually charged on top.

The calm waters around Meganissi are ideal for exploring by boat, letting you moor up in narrow inlets for a swim, access peaceful beaches like Atherinos or Korokofolia, or even head over to look at the private island of Skorpios. Small boats usually seat from 2 up to 7, and you can expect to pay 70 to 150 euros per day, depending on the type of boat.

What’s the best time of year to visit Meganissi?

Spring is lush, green and perfect for walking. The island also celebrates two saints day celebrations on May 21 – Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni. July and August are peak season month, so expect a livelier atmosphere everywhere, though it’s still a far cry from the mainstream resort destinations. September is prime time for sea swimming, and by October the days are shortening but the temperatures are once again pleasant for walking and exploring.

Is it easy to buy groceries on the island?

Yes. Despite its small size, Meganissi is well serviced for self catering, with small supermarkets in Vathy (which also does deliveries), Katomeri and Spartochori, plus a couple of bakeries and butcher shops.

Should I use cash or cards on Meganissi?

Like most Greek islands, cards are widely accepted in restaurants, supermarkets and for ferry tickets. Cash is often appreciated however, particularly if you wish to tip.

Can I combine Meganissi with another island?

Meganissi works very well as a twin-centre holiday with Lefkada, as the airport for both destinations is Preveza. You can also take a day trip by ferry if you just want a taste of a slightly bigger island.

What are the main villages on Meganissi?

For us, a holiday on Meganissi is more about being than doing; time with family, a chance to catch up with friends, books or just a much-needed rest. You might want to visit the three main villages however. The capital Katomeri counts just 500 permanent residents, but the narrow streets are enchanting, and the view from the old bell tower at sunset is one not to be missed. Vathy is the island’s admin centre and main fishing port where the daily catch goes from boat to plate in record quick time and the waterfront tables bustle with life in the main season. Spartochori village sits on the hillside above Spilia bay and port, which  feels a little more old-school Greece despite the sleek yachts that visit in summer. The traditional tavernas clustered around the harbour are popular with islanders as well as day visitors off the ferry from Lefkada. It’s a bit of a climb on a hot day, but the walk from Spilia up to Spartochori delivers fantastic views once you reach the top, where there are small shops, tavernas and cafés to enjoy.

How do I find the best beaches on Meganissi?

Meganissi’s beaches are either small stones or a mixture of pebbles and coarse sand. This makes for exceptionally clear water in shimmering shades of sapphire, turquoise and jade. From Spilia with its couple of beach bars to Stravnam for wonderful sunsets over Lefkada, there is a beach here you’ll love – see the full list as part of our detailed Guide to Meganissi.

Anything else I should know?

The island’s rocky coastline is deeply indented with narrow inlets and secret sea caves, including Papanikoli Cave; it seems utterly improbably now, but the cave was used as a hiding spot for submarines during World War II.