Things to do in Preveza: Nicopolis, beaches and day trips
The town by Lefkada's airport is worth more than a quick stop.
- Ancient Nicopolis is about 8 km north of town and closed on Tuesdays.
- Long Monolithi beach is about 22 km from town.
- From October to March you can see flamingos in the Lefkada lagoon.
If you fly to Preveza, give the town at least a day: Nicopolis in the morning, a beach in the afternoon and fish on the promenade.
Why stop in Preveza?
Most Israelis who land at Aktion airport near Preveza drive straight on to Lefkada. That is a pity: Preveza is a pleasant port town on the Ambracian Gulf, with a small old town, a seafront lined with fish restaurants, and some of the most impressive historic sites in northwest Greece. It is also a good base for long beaches on the Ionian coast. Lefkada is about 14 km away, a 15–30 minute drive. Flights to the area: flights from Israel to Preveza and Lefkada.
Things to do in Preveza: the main sights
Nicopolis. The ancient city founded by Octavian (later Emperor Augustus) to mark his victory at the Battle of Actium. It lies about 5 miles (about 8 km) north of Preveza, with walls, a theatre, basilicas with mosaics and an archaeological museum. According to Elxis, the site is closed on Tuesdays.
The Venetian clock tower. The town's symbol, built in 1752. Around it are the old town's lanes, with cafés and tavernas.
Pantokratoras castle. A seaside fortress at the mouth of the gulf, with a fine sunset view.
The Zalongo monument. A large monument on a mountain to the north, in memory of Souliote women who jumped from the cliff in 1803 rather than fall to Ali Pasha's troops. It has a wide view over the area.
The promenade. In the evening the whole town walks the gulf-side promenade. This is the place for a fish dinner.
Beaches near Preveza
- Monolithi. A very long sandy beach about 22 km from town. Wide, with room for everyone, good for families.
- Kanali. About 10 km from Preveza, a popular beach with clear water and facilities.
- Lefkada's beaches are very close and make an easy day trip. See Shabbat and kosher in Lefkada and the Lefkada destination page.
What to see in Preveza in winter
Preveza has residents all year, so it does not shut down in winter like resort towns. From October to March you can see flamingos in the Lefkada lagoon, near the entrance to the island. It is a good time for walks, historic sites and food, less so for the beach. Check the weather.
Do you need a car in Preveza?
Not for the town itself: the old town and promenade are small and walkable. But for Nicopolis, Zalongo and the beaches, a hire car is the easiest option. Aktion airport is close to town, so you can collect a car on landing.
Is Preveza good for families?
Yes. The town is quiet and relatively safe, the beaches are wide and distances are short. Parents can combine a history day, a beach day and a day in Lefkada. General safety: is Greece safe for Israelis.
FAQ
How far is Preveza from Lefkada? About 14 km, a 15–30 minute drive.
When is Nicopolis closed? According to Elxis, on Tuesdays. Check opening hours before you visit.
What is the best beach near Preveza? Monolithi, a long sandy beach about 22 km from town. Kanali is closer, about 10 km.
Is it worth staying in Preveza rather than Lefkada? If you want a real town, good food and historic sites, yes. For a classic beach holiday, Lefkada is very close.
