Looking for what to see in Aktion? This small corner in the west of Greece may not sound as familiar as other Mediterranean destinations, but it hides much more than you imagine.
Aktion, by the Ionian Sea, is the gateway to an uncrowded area, full of history, endless beaches and corners that you will love. Many travellers only know it for the airport or as an arrival point, but it is a very worthwhile destination in its own right.
This is especially true in summer, thanks to its location and good climate, and because it is also the perfect starting point to discover other parts of the country. If you're travelling this year and wondering what to see in Aktion, take note of these must-see stops.
The city of Preveza for a stroll along the seaside
Very close to Aktion airport is Prevenza, a coastal city with a whole host of surprises from the very first moment. It is a good starting point for a road trip, because you will be immersed in the tranquil atmosphere of Greece at its most authentic.
The old town of Preveza is full of cobblestone streets, neoclassical buildings and lots of terraces. One of the most pleasant places to stroll around is the marina, ideal for watching the sunset overlooking the sea or having a drink in a traditional bar. What will you find on the menu? Fresh fish, feta cheese, olives and lots of olive oil on each dish.
Tip: Visit the Fortress of Pantokrator, built in the 17th century, and the church of Agios Charalambos, an Orthodox jewel in the historic city centre. If you travel by car, you can park in the surroundings of the old town without any problems.
What to see in Aktion: Monolithi beach
Another must-see in Aktion, just a few miles away, is one of the longest beaches in Europe, Monolithi beach. It has more than 12 miles of fine sand, and is perfect for stress-free rest and relaxation.
The best thing about Monolithi (unlike other beaches) is that, despite its length, it is quite well serviced. You will find areas with umbrellas and beach bars, but also much quieter unspoiled areas. The waters are shallow, so it is an ideal destination to visit with children. In addition, access by car is easy and free parking is available right next door.
Nicopolis, Roman history in the heart of Greece
Just 4 miles from Aktion is one of the biggest archaeological sites in the country, Nicopolis. Here are some interesting facts:
- Founded by Emperor Augustus in 31 BC to commemorate his victory in the battle of Actium, which forever changed the history of the Roman Empire.
- You can walk among the ruins of the theatre, the stadium, the thermal baths and part of the ancient walls.
- It has an Archaeological Museum that will delight history buffs, because you will find mosaics, statues and all kinds of ancient objects here.
Some advice when visiting Nicopolis: Go early to avoid the heat, wear comfortable shoes and go steady.
Vonitsa, a castle and sea views
Vonitsa is another must-see in Aktion, just a 20-minute drive away. It is a lesser-known coastaltown, but with a great deal of charm. The first thing that will catch your eye is its beautiful Venetian castle on top of a hill, with incredible views of the Ambracian Gulf.
The castle is free to visit, and will surprise you both inside and out. After your visit, you can head down to the town centre and enjoy the promenade. There are bars with local products and a very local atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else, especially at night.
The nearby islands of Lefkada and Meganisi
Finally, another of this area's great draws is that it is very close to other islands in the Ionian Sea. The most accessible is Lefkada, which you can reach by car from Aktion by crossing a floating bridge. Once there, you will discover stunning beaches such as Porto Katsiki, Kathisma and Egremni, all with white cliffs and turquoise waters.
From Lefkada you can also take a ferry to Meganisi, a small, quiet and very authentic island, perfect to spend a day doing something a little different. The port of Nidri is the typical departure point, and is about a 45-minute drive from Aktion.
Now, are you ready for everything you can see in Aktion? Whether you already know the destination or are discovering it for the first time, it has many attractions. And the best option is to rent a car with OK Mobility at Aktion National Airport (PVK) to get around at your own pace, because driving is a simple experience there. What's more, some of the most beautiful places are not well connected by public transport, so a car offers you total freedom.
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