places to visit in kefalonia by car

The Wandering Whites

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5 Day Guide to Driving around Kefalonia

Kefalonia has a rugged, mountainous landscape surrounded by stunning beaches. The main roads are easy to navigate, you just need to be careful on the narrow, hilly roads leading down to the beaches. Drive slowly and the end result will make driving around Kefalonia worth it.

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands, bigger than Corfu and is on the west side of mainland Greece. It is around 780square km and you can drive from the furthest two points in around 2 hours which makes for a perfect place to hire a car and get out and explore the island by car.

Where to stay in Kefalonia

Here is a guide to some of the beaches and towns we visited over 5 days of driving around Kefalonia. We were staying in an Air Bnb in Spartia, a small town on the East Coast with a few restaurants, coffee shops and supermarket which was perfect for us.

Gardenia Villa is a 3-bedroom villa in Spartia which looks amazing and a perfect location. Trapezaki Garden Villas are also close by and look fabulous with great reviews.

Day 1 – Myrtos and Asos

Myrtos is the flagship beach of Kefalonia used in many guidebooks and adverts, understandably so. The view from the top is breathtaking; Myrtos is a powdery white sand cove and turquoise sea surrounded by cliffs, trees and mountains. There is ample parking along the road and then follow the steps down to the beach – you need to be mobile to access it. Like all the beaches in Kefalonia, expect pebbles and small stones not just sand.

Continue to drive North up the coast will take you to the pretty seaside village of Asos , looking like something straight out of the Amalfi coast. It has Venetian ruins, cobbled streets, colourful houses and cute restaurants on the sea. Stop here for lunch and a walk around. Asos is a small village , park where you can as parking in the car park is limited. Don’t miss this place when driving around Kefalonia .

Check out our post on why you need to visit Assos Kefalonia .

Day 2 – Petani

Petani beach has another picturesque view from above; bright blue sea and a pebbly beach. The sea can be rough and not ideal for young kids, wear beach shoes too as the stones can be sharp. A really beautiful beach with beds if you want to pay to hire them, a beach shack with drinks and stunning views. There is a car park with a 5EUR fee.

Day 3 – Lassi and St Thomas

Lassi is an area with a few beaches along the coast and has more sand than a lot of the other beaches in Kefalonia. We managed to find parking close to Makris Gialos which was ideal with nice soft sand to build sandcastles and the lovely Costa Costa beach bar close by.

St Thomas has a small strip of sand, a small cafe overlooking the bay and a nice little path to walk around and take in the view. Further along the coast is a little harbour with small boats which are worth admiring. A nice stop when driving around Kefalonia.

Day 4 – Skala

Skala is the tourist hotspot full of busy souvenir shops, noisy cafes and popular hotels. It is not an area we like to base ourselves in but one we always like to check out. Skala was as expected; a pleasant stretch of sand surrounded by hotels with some cute churches, watersports, beach bars with music and beach cafes. There is a lot going on here if that is what you are looking for. It’s worth a look when driving around Kefalonia.

Day 5 – Antisamos and Sami

Antisamos is where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed and it is easy to see why – a perfect banana cove with the bluest water we have ever seen. The views driving down to the beach are also spectacular, stop off and take some pictures on the way. The beach is approached from behind with a car park behind some beach bars. Get there early for some breakfast and claim a beach bed. Like most beaches in Kefalonia it has pebbles and stones so bring footwear.

Sami is a port, the second largest to the capital Argostoli with ferries over to Patra, Ithaca and Italy. There are wide streets, a promenade, bigger supermarkets and lots of restaurants. A perfect place to stock up on provisions, go for a walk and get a coffee when driving around Kefalonia.

Wine Tour (Ditch the car!)

Finally, book a private tour to visit some of the vineyards on the island. The Kefalonia Wine Tour company offer a private mini-van with car seats for kids and will drive you around to different vineyards and wine shops and let you taste the famous Robola wine amongst other local wines. Drive inland through the mountains, visit small houses and receive true Greek hospitality. A perfect way to end your time on the beautiful island of Kefalonia.

Hiring a Car to Drive around Kefalonia

Car hire in Kefalonia is affordable and plentiful, you can pick up and return from the airport. Alternatively just hire for a few days and ask for it to be brought to your hotel or accommodation. Remember to ask for car seats for the children to save you travelling with them.

We always check on Rental Cars for the cheapest options when looking for car rental.

We hope you enjoyed our 5 Day Guide for Driving around Kefalonia. There are lots of other beautiful beaches along the way, let us know if we missed anything special so we can make sure we visit them next time. We love hearing from you so drop us an email here and let us know what you thought.

If you enjoyed this article why not check out Which Greek Islands to Visit with Kids . Also check out the Best Family All Inclusive Hotel in Corfu and Is Corfu Old Town worth visiting? Also why you need to visit Assos Kefalonia .

Albania, just next door to Greece is a beautiful country that we enjoyed. Check out our Guide to Albania and 10-day itinerary to Albania .

If you are looking for another road trip check out our Dubai to Oman road trip . Or go back to our Destinations page and check out our other family travels.

Disclaimer:  This post  5 Day Guide to Driving Around Kefalonia,  has affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.* 

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1 Week on Kefalonia (How to See The Best Bits in 7 Days or Less)

The Ionian island of Kefalonia is known for being one of the most beautiful islands in Greece – it’s craggy and mountains, very green, and home to striking beaches such as the iconic Myrtos with its electric blue water. But Kefalonia is also a large island and an awkward shape, so what’s the best way to see everything?

Despite having an international airport, Kefalonia isn’t as developed as the more popular Ionian islands Corfu and Zakynthos. The beaches are mostly pebbly (although there are some great sandy beaches in the south and east), and the rugged terrain has kept building – and roads – to a minimum.

If you’ve seen Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (and I unashamedly love that film, Nicholas Cage isn’t as bad as everyone says…) then you’ll have an idea of just how picturesque Kefalonia can be.

Kefalonia is an island of incredible beauty spots that aren’t well connected by bus or road and don’t lend themselves to an obvious itinerary. For practical purposes, you can divide it into north and south.

It really makes life a lot easier to hire a car on Kefalonia. If you do, then it doesn’t matter where you stay and it’s possible to see the highlights in as little as 3 days. But there’s plenty to see if you longer – particularly as some of the best bits of Kefalonia can only be seen by boat. I recommend you spend at least a week there.

If you enjoy walking then I recommend picking up a copy of Walk & Eat Kefalonia .

WITH A RENTAL CAR

Here’s what 7 days in Kefalonia with a hire car might look like:

• Day 1 – North Kefalonia
• Day 2 – Antisamos and Melissani
• Day 3 – Argostoli and the south
• Day 4 –  Day trip to Ithaca
• Day 5 – Lixouri, Xi and the Paliki Peninsula
• Day 6 – Beach day at Skala
• Day 7 – Inland or boat trip

For car rental check out well-regarded local firms Pefanis and Greekstones .

WITHOUT A RENTAL CAR

If you don’t have a car but want to see as much of the island as possible then I recommend staying Argostoli or Lassi for at least 1 week. It’s very difficult to visit most of Kefalonia’s highlights by public transport (trust me, I tried and failed). Kefalonia’s tourist industry is geared towards the schedule of package holidays and most excursions run on a weekly rota so you’ll need some flexibility in your plans. 

To give you a starting point, 7 days in Kefalonia (based in Argostoli/Lassi) without a car might look like this:

• Day 1 – Highlights of Kefalonia excursion
• Day 2 – Beach day at Lassi
• Day 4 – Day trip to Ithaca
• Day 5 – Boat trip to Paliki Peninsula
• Day 7 – Boat trip

The main tour companies offering excursions are:

• From Argostoli/Lassi : see KCG Travel
• From Argostoli/Skala : see Kefalonia Excursions
• From Lassi/Skala/Katelios : see Panem Tours
• From Agia Efimia/Sami/Karavomilos : see Avgerinos Travel Experience

Check the KTEL website for bus timetables.

Some boat trips  are:

• Lady O  
• Fishing Tourism ‘Michalis’

If you’re a total beach hound and just want to fly and flop then stay on the south coast which has sandier beaches and just take one or two excursions. The most beautiful part of Kefalonia is the north but it’s difficult to see the rest of the island from here. For more information on towns and villages see Where to Stay on Kefalonia: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide .

NORTH KEFALONIA

The northern tip of Kefalonia is the most attractive part of the island, with pretty villages and jaw-dropping beaches.

• The beautiful village of Assos
• Myrtos beach
• The harbour village of Fiskardo

They are all relatively close together and easily combined into a day trip by car or on an excursion. However, they are not connected by public transport so it’s impossible to see all of them in one day by bus, although you can visit them individually for the day.

Don’t leave Kefalonia without seeing this part of the island. The villages are two remaining examples of Kefalonia’s original architecture with its Venetian influence. Assos is tiny and you probably couldn’t imagine a prettier place if you tried. I like it best at the end of the day when the tour groups have gone – swimming at Assos is a blissful treat, especially when followed by a late afternoon ‘strawbecco’ at Nefeli in the sun.

Fiskardo is handsome and cosmopolitan. It’s the buzziest part of the island, with posh bars and restaurants to match. If you’re driving, it’s worth aiming for Fiskardo before the lunchtime tour groups arrive at 1 pm.

Myrtos beach is just as stunning as all the photos – no wonder it’s generally considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece , with electric blue water and bright white pebbles. It’s busier from midday onwards when the beach is out of shadow and sunbathers decamp here for the day. Myrtos is also west-facing so has spectacular sunsets.

These are some of the main attractions on the island so expect crowds.

ANTISAMOS, MELISSANI AND DROGARATI

Antisamos is the famous ‘Captain Corelli’ beach and is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s a pebble beach though, not sand – and it’s also not quite the untouched paradise from the film though. Expect a beach bar, sunloungers, and watersports in the high summer. It’s still worth a visit if you’re a fan of the film, or of beaches, and you can also walk up to the Acropolis of Ancient Sami if you’re feeling active.

The beach is 10 minutes in the car from the town of Sami, and an hour on foot. There are two other attractions close by – the shimmering Melissani blue cave, and ancient Drogerati Caves, Unfortunately, buses to and from Sami are infrequent, even in high summer. You’re more likely to find a bus excursion or boat trip that includes Melissani as part of its itinerary.

If you’re determined to do this by public transport then it’s better to stay in Sami overnight and budget for a few taxis.

A rental car allows you to also take in the watermills at nearby Karavomilos and dinner at Aghia Efimia.

ARGOSTOLI AND THE SOUTH

The south of Kefalonia has a significantly different landscape and feel. Highlights include:

• Argostoli and its turtles
• Fanari Lighthouse
• Beaches at Lassi, Svoronata, and Pessada

If you can, get to Argostoli before 9 am to see the turtles follow fishermen into the harbour. There are usually conservation volunteers around, happy to chat with the general public and educate about these magnificent creatures. Just opposite the harbour are several great bakeries.

You can take a stroll around the Fanari Peninsula to the lighthouse – it takes around 1 hour and there are a few small pebble coves for a dip if it gets too hot. The end of the walk brings you to the Lassi area where there are plenty of tavernas. Do yourself a favour and have lunch at Kamaroules Stamatelatos near Gradakia beach, a taverna tucked away underneath pines by the shore. There is a lot of mediocre tourist fare in Lassi but this was some of the best food I ate on Kefalonia.

From here Lassi is nearby for a lazy afternoon on the beach – they get sandier the further along you go. If you have a car you can continue past Lassi to quieter beaches at Ammes or Pessada. Gentilini Winery is on the way and offers tasting flights of local Kefalonian varieties as well as bottles to buy for later (bagsy not the designated driver). 

Argostoli is not the most handsome town in Greece. Most of the buildings are modern, having been rebuilt after the devastation of the 1953 earthquake. It’s a town better seen at night than day. During the day it feels sleepy and dusty, but from 8 pm onwards it begins to come alive. There’s a long street of tourist shops and souvenirs, bars and restaurants, and the presence of a superyacht marina nearby ensures a decent calibre of cocktail bars near the waterfront.

DAY TRIP TO ITHACA

Ithaca is Kefalonia’s smaller sister island off its northern coast. As you drive along the coastal road opposite Ithaca it’s clear that they were once part of the same land-mass of green-tipped mountain tops.

It’s definitely worth making the journey over to Ithaca for the day if you have time. It has a similar feel to north Kefalonia with its picturesque villages and dramatic coastline, but minus most of the crowds. It’s not entirely untouristy though – the yachties love it.

For more information see How to Day Trip from Kefalonia to Ithaca .

BEACH HOPPING AROUND SKALA

No trip to a Greek island is complete without some dedicated beach time, so I’m sure you want to know where to find the best beaches. The most dramatic and beautiful are the steep cliff beaches like Myrtos on the north-west coast, however the sandiest beaches are on the east coast around Skala.

Skala is a popular (though laid-back) beach resort town and has a long stretch of rough sand beach. Behind the beach is the main road lined with hotels, beach bars, tavernas, and everything else you need, as well as many tall pines which provide some welcome shade and add a pleasant vibe. You can reach Skala by bus from Argostoli which also stops at some of the smaller resorts. 

There are a few scenic bays along the road to Poros. South of Skala is Kaminia Beach which is quieter, wilder, and less developed thanks to the presence of Caretta Caretta turtles who favour it as a nesting zone.

Back on the road west to Argostoli, you will pass the small beach villages of Katelios and Lourdata and the rocky beach at Pessada. Lourdata is especially worth a beach/swim/eat stop.

LIXOURI AND THE PALIKI PENINSULA

From Argostoli, you can hop on a very frequent ferry across the water to Lixouri, the main town of the Paliki Peninsula. It feels like a mirror image of Argostoli but smaller and less touristy. The crossing is just a couple of euros and the boats leave every 15 minutes or so from the main harbour in Argostoli.

Paliki feels geologically different to the rest of the island and it has some intriguing beaches, the most well-known of which is Xi (pictured below) with its orange clay sand.

Drivers can explore some of the wilder beaches such as Petani, which is similar to Myrtos but less busy, and Platia Ammos (the beach itself is currently closed so you’ll have to make do with the viewpoint).

In high season buses run from Argostoli to Xi. Sometimes you can also find bus tours around the Paliki Peninsula or boat trips from Argostoli which stop at some of the beaches and include a BBQ lunch.

10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Kefalonia

Where to Stay on Kefalonia: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Fiskardo, Kefalonia’s Venetian Harbour Village

How to Day Trip from Kefalonia to Ithaca

Kefalonia – 10 Tips from a Local

Where to Stay on Zakynthos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide 

Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Where to Stay on Lefkada: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Where to Stay on Skiathos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Where to Stay on Crete: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the Ionian Islands

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 Antisamos © miladavidovic / Adobe Stock

Xi © kwasny221 / Adobe Stock

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Kefalonia Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Last updated on May 13th, 2024 at 09:09 am

The allure of the Ionian Sea is indisputable and our comprehensive Kefalonia Travel Guide is all you need to plan the perfect vacation to the largest of the Ionian Islands, a treasure trove of stunning beaches, natural wonders, lush forests and picturesque towns and villages steeped in history.

Complete with all the practical information you need to plan your trip to Kefalonia, recommendations for the best places to stay in Kefalonia, historical facts about the island, and the best beaches and top things to do in Kefalonia, this guide has everything you need to know about Kefalonia in one place.

Not to mention that our knowledge of Kefalonia is an almost-local one. Blessed with dear friends and their open invitation to visit them in their summer home in Kefalonia, we know the island pretty well. Welcome to our ultimate Kefalonia travel guide!

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

The Ultimate Kefalonia Travel Guide: Travel Resources

• Book a direct flight to Kefalonia or book your flight to Athens .
• Planning a road trip to Kefalonia?  Rent a car here!
• Find the best deals on  Booking . com  for your  accommodation in Kefalonia .
• Book  the best tours  with   GetYourGuide  or  Viator  in Kefalonia.
• Travel without a worry in the world.  Click here  to buy your  travel insurance .
• Make your transactions in foreign currency  simple without visiting a bureau de change.  Order your Wise Card here!

Where Is Kefalonia Greece

Kefalonia or Cephalonia is one of the largest Greek islands and the biggest Ionian Island. It’s in the heart of the Ionian Sea, off the coast of the Peloponnese and Western Greece. Similar to the rest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is well-known for its gorgeous beaches with crystal clear water, lush vegetation and marvellous mountainous scenery.

Argostoli is Kefalonia’s capital and largest town. West of Argostoli, on the other side of the bay, is Lixouri, the main town on the Paliki Peninsula. Poros and Sami on the eastern side of the island are Kefalonia’s two main ports connecting Kefalonia to mainland Greece.

Best Time To Visit Kefalonia

Like most places in Greece , Kefalonia enjoys good weather with warm temperatures throughout the year. However, despite its mild temperatures, the island of Kefalonia sees a lot of rainfall for the better part of the year.

The best time to visit Kefalonia to enjoy more sunshine and avoid rain is during the summer months when the maximum temperature is around 30°C. Although June to September is the high season in Greece, Kefalonia doesn’t feel crowded, thanks to its big size.

How Many Days in Kefalonia

Unlike the Cyclades Islands , which are all compact and fairly easy to explore in a handful of days, there are also several big islands in Greece. One of them is Kefalonia. So, if you have experience with the smaller Greek Islands you visited before, expect the exact opposite in Kefalonia.

Long distances leave you less time relaxing on the beach as the main Kefalonia attractions are scattered all over the island. Therefore, we recommend staying at least one week in Kefalonia to check out some of the best things to do in Kefalonia and have some free time, too. If you plan to stay for fewer days, it’s better to focus on one part of this beautiful island instead of trying to see everything.

How To Get To Kefalonia

The best way to get to Kefalonia is by plane. There are plenty of direct flights from major European cities in the summer. Kefalonia’s airport is a 15-minute drive from Argostoli, the island’s capital.

If you can’t find a direct flight to Kefalonia International Airport, the next best option is to book a flight to Athens and then continue to Kefalonia either by car or bus.

By Car & Ferry From Athens

If you fly to Athens, rent a car at the airport and drive directly to Kyllini Port in the Peloponnese, where the ferries to Kefalonia depart from. The drive from Athens Airport to Kyllini Port takes about three and a half hours via the E94 and A8 Motorways, while the ferry ride from Kyllini to Poros Port on Kefalonia Island lasts about one hour and a half.

By Bus & Ferry From Athens

Alternatively, from Athens Airport, take Bus X93 to the Athens KTEL Bus Station , where the long-distance bus to Kefalonia departs. The KTEL bus ticket includes the Kyllini to Poros ferry ride. Check out the Kefalonia KTEL Bus schedule here .

Like all the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is no longer connected to Piraeus, the largest port in Greece. By ferry, you can reach Kefalonia from the Greek mainland ports of Kyllini and Patras in Western Peloponnese or other Ionian Islands, like Zante (or Zakynthos) .

Ferries from Kyllini Port go to Poros Port in Kefalonia all year round while ferries from Patras Port go to Sami Port in Kefalonia in the summer months. From Patras, you can continue your trip to Italy , with daily ferries to Bari or Ancona.

Sami Port in Kefalonia is well-connected to Ithaca Island in the summer, too. In the peak season, you can also reach Kefalonia from Lefkada Island after a short ferry ride to the village of Fiskardo in the northern part of Kefalonia.

PRO TIP: Ferry schedules are subject to change, so make sure you double-check before booking your ferry tickets to Kefalonia.

How To Get Around Kefalonia

Public transport.

Public transport in Kefalonia is run by the KTEL bus company. Buses are frequent and connect the island’s main towns and villages. During the peak season, expect to find more itineraries on the timetable. Although not the best way to get around the island, if renting a car is not an option for you, public buses will take you to most of the island’s highlights.

Check out the KTEL Bus timetable for local routes here .

Local Ferry

A local ferry connects Kefalonia’s two main towns, Argostoli and Lixouri, throughout the year. This is the best way to commute between the two towns, especially if you’re not driving. Check out the local ferry itineraries here .

From fantastic exotic beaches with crystal clear waters to hidden lakes in the forest and abandoned villages in the mountains, Kefalonia boasts unique scenery. The most hassle-free way to appreciate the island’s beauty is by car.

Kefalonia’s main road network is in very good condition. There aren’t any highways, only local roads that make distances look longer when driving from one side of the island to the other. Be careful of the steep narrow roads that lead to the beaches. Also, you may come across the occasional dirt road but nothing too strenuous.

If you don’t drive to Kefalonia in your car, make sure to book a rental car in advance as they quickly disappear in the high season.

Where To Stay in Kefalonia

Argostoli for first-timers.

With plenty of fantastic things to do in and around Argostoli, the island’s capital city is the best place to stay for your first time in Kefalonia.

Featuring an excellent location on Argostoli’s seafront, the 4-star Kefalonia Grand Hotel offers sparklingly clean modern rooms with sea views. Situated right on Argostoli’s central square, Aenos Hotel features gorgeous comfortable rooms in a prime location in the heart of Kefalonia’s capital.

Fiskardo For Couples

Located in the north of Kefalonia, this renowned quaint village is home to some of the best hotels for a romantic getaway. Nestled in the heart of Fiskardo, both Faros Suites and Balhambra Suites are ideal for a romantic laid-back stay in one of the most beautiful villages in Kefalonia.

Sami For Exploration

For those who want to explore Kefalonia by car, there is no better place to use as a base than Sami. Thanks to its central location, Sami is easily accessible from the rest of the island.

Some of the best places to visit in Kefalonia, such as the beaches of Myrtos and Antisamos, the villages of Assos and Fiskardo and Melissani Cave, are within easy driving distance from Sami, while Argostoli is a mere 35-minute drive from there. On top of that, ferries to Ithaca (or Ithaki) run daily from Sami Port in the summer, making it easy to plan a day trip to the neighbouring island.

Situated in a convenient location with easy parking, Mary’s Studios and Apartment offers fully equipped studios with spacious terraces, ideal for a perfect stay in Kefalonia.

Skala For Families

Away from the hustle and bustle of the island’s more popular locations, Skala remains a small touristic seaside town ideal for families and relaxing holidays. Skala is home to many hotels, restaurants, cafés and beach bars, usually frequented by a lot of people. However, you can always find a great spot on the beach to enjoy the sun and the sea away from the crowds, even in August.

Situated in the heart of the town, Skala Hotel is a family-run hotel with modern refurbished rooms with sea views. The comfortable suites are ideal for families while the sandy beach – a true paradise for the little ones – is only a few steps from the hotel.

5 Things To Know Before Visiting Kefalonia

1. the 1953 great kefalonia earthquake.

This Kefalonia travel guide wouldn’t be the same if we didn’t mention an event that marked the island’s rich history. On the 12th of August, 1953, Kefalonia was hit by one of the most devastating earthquakes in the history of modern Greece. It was the third big earthquake in four consecutive days that flattened Zakynthos, Ithaki and Kefalonia, claiming between 445 and 800 lives.

Fiskardo was the only village in Kefalonia that wasn’t razed to the ground. The catastrophic quake of 7.2 magnitude on the Richter scale resulted in a big migration flow to Athens and abroad. An inevitable economic decline ensued. It took a long time for Kefalonia to stand back on its feet. It wasn’t before the late 1980s that Kefalonia started emerging as one of the main touristic destinations in Greece.

Nowadays, Kefalonia is still hit by earthquakes. Yet, there is nothing to be afraid of anymore as structural engineering has evolved since and because of the 1953 earthquake. Most of the buildings are now protected according to modern anti-seismic regulations.

2. The Island’s Mysterious Underground Waters

A short drive from Argostoli, a 19th-century water mill rolls the waters that vanish in the depths of the earth through one of the island’s sinkholes.

In 1963, scientists managed to prove that underground waters traverse Kefalonia from west to east. They did so by pouring red paint into the Argostoli Sinkholes. After two weeks, the water in Melissani Cave and Sami turned red, explaining a unique geological phenomenon that used to be a mystery in the past.

3. The Magic of Ainos Mountain

Considering that Kefalonia is popular for its fantastic beaches, the island’s splendid mountainous landscape comes as a pleasant surprise. With its highest peak at 1628 metres, Mount Ainos is the tallest mountain in Kefalonia and the Ionian Islands. The most exciting part is that Ainos Mountain is home to a black-pine forest, the natural habitat of wild horses.

In the summer, Mount Ainos National Park is ideal for outdoor activities, especially hiking. You can drive through Mount Ainos and leave your car at the parking next to the Transmitter Station. From there, follow the trails to explore the island’s national park. If you are lucky, you might catch glimpses of the forest’s beautiful inhabitants.

4. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin Was Filmed in Kefalonia

Starring Nicholas Cage and Penelope Cruz, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is one of the most popular films set in Greece. The film, based on a novel by Louis de Bernières , is the love story of a music-lover Italian army captain and a local Greek woman who fell in love in Kefalonia when the island was under Italian and German occupation.

For more inspiration before visiting Greece, you can check out our list of 20 novels set in Greece.

5. Kefalonia Has Its Local Dialect

Similar to the other Ionian Islands, Kefalonia’s dialect is influenced by the Italian language. Occupied by the Venetians for several centuries, the locals use alternated Italian words until today. It’s hard to notice the difference if you don’t speak Greek. That said, you may pick up some words if you speak Italian.

3 Best Places To Visit in Kefalonia

Situated in the northern part of Kefalonia, about an hour’s drive from Argostoli, Assos (or Asos) is the indisputable gem of the island. This small seaside village is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Greece and for good reason

For a perfect day in Assos, leave your car at the small public parking space in the narrowest part of the peninsula. Spend a relaxing day by the turquoise waters of the village’s beach, have lunch at one of the seafront restaurants and take a stroll along the quaint harbour.

Before leaving Assos, walk along the scenic path that leads to the 16th-century Venetian Castle for incredible views of the picturesque village.

2. Fiskardo

A 35-minute drive north of Assos, Fiskardo (or Fiscardo) is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kefalonia. As Fiskardo was the only village that survived the 1953 Great Kefalonia earthquake, this is the perfect place to have a look at the island’s pre-earthquake traditional architecture, as most buildings in Fiskardo still retain original elements.

Start your walk marvelling at the ancient ruins of a Roman cemetery at the edge of the once sleepy fishing village.

Walk along the promenade that passes through the charming harbour and leads to the trail for the Old Venetian Lighthouse of Fiskardo and the enchanting ruins of an early Christian Basilica.

Although the village has kept its traditional features, Fiskardo is renowned for its fine dining and cosmopolitan vibes. The former hidden gem is now a top destination for the rich and famous. Therefore, don’t be surprised if there are more luxury yachts than fishing boats at the harbour. Also, taxi boats never stop bringing VIP guests to Fiskardo for a luxury dinner.

3. Argostoli

With its beautiful architecture, elegant air and authentic vibes, Argostoli is one of the best places to visit in Kefalonia. The vibrant capital of the island boasts several squares and pedestrianised streets, ideal for people-watching. A great way to be immersed in the unique atmosphere of Argostoli is to grab an ice cream and mingle with the locals as you walk along the lively main street.

The indisputable highlight of Argostoli is the seemingly endless De Bosset Bridge while a special mention should be made to the adorable loggerhead turtles that inhabit the port.

5 Best Beaches in Kefalonia

1. myrtos beach.

Kefalonia is mostly known for its beaches. This is why we’re starting this section of our Kefalonia travel guide with one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece and certainly the most famous beach in Kefalonia. Myrtos will dazzle you with its beauty. It’s one of those places that never fail to astonish, even if you’ve seen a zillion photos of the beach before you actually get there.

First, enjoy panoramic views of Myrtos from this viewpoint . Then drive the downhill road to the beach to swim in mind-blowingly turquoise waters and lie on otherworldily white pebbles.

Thanks to its western orientation, Myrtos is ideal for epic sunsets. Therefore, it’s worth sticking around until the golden hour. However, if you plan to spend the whole day there, bring a beach umbrella as those offered by beach bars are hard to come by.

Keep in mind that when the weather is windy, it’s best to refrain from getting into the water as the waves can get pretty high. Myrtos is also infamous for its strong currents. Therefore, it might be a good idea to check the weather forecast before going to Myrtos Beach to make sure you pick a windless day.

2. Petani Beach

Located on the other side of the island, on the Paliki Peninsula, the smaller Petani Beach has something of Myrtos’ splendour. The surrounding exotic landscape and the beach’s turquoise waters will take you aback before you even start descending the hill to the beach. Petani Beach is organised with beach bars and restaurants and it’s perfect for idyllic sunsets.

Like with Myrtos Beach, pick a windless day for your trip to Petani Beach for an unforgettable – and safe – experience.

3. Antisamos Beach

A 10-minute drive from Sami, Antisamos Beach is one of the best beaches in Kefalonia. Alongside Sami, Antisamos was one of Captain Corelli Mandolin’s filming locations that made the island known to the world. Antisamos stands out for its lush green scenery and somewhat eerily emerald waters.

The beach is fully organised with beach bars, restaurants, showers, sunbeds and umbrellas you can rent for the day. Parking is quite easy even in the peak season. For the more adventurous, there are also water sports to try. Antisamos isn’t the best for families as the beach has large pebbles and the waters are deep.

4. Xi Beach

Kefalonia has no shortage of unique landscapes and Xi Beach is one of them. With a red-sanded shoreline and crystal clear waters surrounded by clay rock formations, Xi Beach is out of this world.

A 13-minute drive from Lixouri, Xi Beach can be overly crowded, especially in the high season. The swallow waters and the amenities make Xi one of the most family-friendly beaches in Kefalonia.

5. Skala Beach

If there’s a happy place for us in Kefalonia, it’s the long sandy Skala Beach. Maybe it’s because we have so many fond memories of having a great time with our dear friends there, but Skala Beach has won a very special place in our hearts.

Situated in eastern Kefalonia, just a 20-minute drive from Poros Port, laid-back Skala is ideal for everyone. Families with small kids who can make the most of the facilities offered by beach bars and restaurants, groups of friends eager to do water sports and sip cocktails, couples in love and loners who want to enjoy reading a book at one of many quiet spots on the sand.

7 Best Things To Do in Kefalonia

No Kefalonia travel guide is complete without a mention of the top things to do in Kefalonia. However, in this article, we tried to keep this list short. For the full list of the best things to do in Kefalonia, watch our Kefalonia YouTube video:

1. Get Into The Depths of Melissani & Drogarati Caves

Situated near Sami and a 10-minute drive from Agia Efimia , Melissani Cave with its underground lake is the ultimate highlight of Kefalonia. The water of Melissani Lake comes from the Sinkholes in Argostoli as we mentioned above. As opposed to Diros Cave in Mani, the roof of Melissani Cave has collapsed, creating an impressive shaft over the lake.

The cave is accessible via an underground tunnel. At the end of the tunnel, you embark on small rowing boats to enjoy a memorable boat ride among stalagmites and stalactites. Try to visit the Cave of Melissani at noon on a bright sunny day when the sunlight hits the lake and the boats look as if they’re hovering over the deep blue waters.

Often overlooked, the nearby Drogarati Cave is another cave worth visiting in Kefalonia. The 95-metre-deep Drogarati Cave is famous for its excellent acoustics. In the past, it even hosted live performances. The over 100-million-year cave boasts numerous impressive formations of stalagmites and stalactites. If you plan to visit both caves, you can buy a combined ticket, available at either site.

2. Step Inside Agios Gerasimos Monastery

Canonised in 1622, Saint Gerasimos is Kefalonia’s patron saint. Saint Gerasimos was renowned for the miracles he performed for people with mental issues. Situated in a gorgeous landscape, a 20-minute drive from Argostoli, the sacred Monastery of Saint Gerasimos is home to his relics, which have remained intact throughout the centuries. You can check them out yourselves if you want.

If you happen to be in Kefalonia on the 16th of August, don’t miss the big feast of the Saint in the monastery. Saint Gerasimos is the locals’ beloved Saint. That explains why almost every male on the island is called Gerasimos or Makis (short for Gerasimos).

3. Visit a Scenic Winery

If you’re wondering what to buy from Greece , wine is always a great idea. Kefalonia boasts a favourable morphology that endorses the production of high-quality local wine. The island’s most famous grape variety is Robola, which produces exquisite dry white wine. Situated near Saint Gerasimos Monastery, the Robola Wine Cooperative is a great place to indulge in a wine tasting of local wines, paired with delicious food.

4. Wander Around a Ghost Village

In 1953, the Great Kefalonia Earthquake levelled a big part of the island. Most villages were rebuilt but others were abandoned forever. Old Vlachata Village near the south coast of Kefalonia is one of the latter. Nowadays, you can still wander among the ruins of this ghost village, step inside roofless homes and try to imagine how the devastating earthquake changed the locals’ lives forever.

Yet, Old Vlachata is brought back to life for three days every August, thanks to the Saristra Festival , a Music and Art Festival that contributes to the village’s reconnection with the past through live performances and installations.

5. Take The Trip To Lixouri

One of our favourite things to do in Kefalonia is to take the local ferry from Argostoli to Lixouri, the second-largest city in Kefalonia.

A popular tourist destination since the 19th century, Lixouri was one of the Greek Royal Family’s favourite summer resorts in the 1950s. However, the city decayed after the 1953 earthquake and never regained its former glory as a vacation spot. Nowadays, only a few original buildings are still standing. Yet, with its authentic vibes and laid-back ambience, the rebuilt Lixouri is worth a visit.

If you’re driving, instead of getting back to Argostoli by ferry, drive along the seaside road that leads from Lixouri to Argostoli for outstanding panoramic views along the way. This drive is one of the most memorable things to do in Kefalonia in its own right.

6. Walk Along The De Bosset Bridge in Argostoli

Constructed in 1813 by the Swiss engineer and Kefalonia’s Governor Charles de Bosset, the De Bosset Bridge is the world’s longest stone bridge built over the sea. The bridge was partially damaged after the 1953 earthquake and closed to vehicles in 2009.

Since 2013, the renovated De Bosset Bridge has been pedestrian-only. It’s ideal for a relaxing long walk with superb views over Koutavos Lagoon and Argostoli Town.

7. Head To an Iconic Lighthouse at Sunset

Built in 1828 on an artificial peninsula, the iconic Lighthouse of Agioi Theodoroi is one of the most famous landmarks in Kefalonia. The Doric-style lighthouse was completely destroyed after the 1953 earthquake and rebuilt according to its original plans. A short drive from Argostoli, it’s the ultimate romantic place in Kefalonia to enjoy a breathtaking sunset.

Now that you reached the end of our ultimate travel guide for Kefalonia, we do hope it helps you plan your holidays to one of the most remarkable islands in Greece. We know we’ll never stop going back to Kefalonia and we get the feeling that you’ll want to visit Kefalonia more than once, too. So, make sure you keep this thorough Kefalonia travel guide handy!

WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina EDITING: Maria

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Kefalonia Itinerary

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Planning a Kefalonia itinerary is one of the highlights when mapping out a Greek island escape. Holding the title of some of the best beaches in the world and with stunning scenery, the island of Kefalonia is still under the radar for most travelers, yet is a mesmerising gem in the Ionian Sea.

On this Kefalonia itinerary, immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating Greek island, prepare to be enchanted by its pristine beaches, picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and enjoy 3, 4, or 5 days in Kefalonia.

Explore the turquoise waters of Myrtos Beach, discover the hidden gems of the island’s villages, eat delectable food, and witness the natural wonders of Kefalonia.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Kefalonia?

As the largest island located in the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is one of the largest Greek islands known to visitors. Because of this, when it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Kefalonia, you’ll want to plan to spend at least 3 days in Kefalonia.

With 3 days, you’ll have enough time to visit at least a few of the island’s famed beaches, enjoy the island’s culture by visiting at least one of Kefalonia’s towns or villages and ultimately get a good taste of what life is like in Kefalonia.

Beyond 3 days, with 4 days in Kefalonia, you’ll have the opportunity to see the island more holistically, visiting different areas of the island with different things to offer.

5 days in Kefalonia will do the island justice, offering you the opportunity to discover the full depth of Kefalonia along with the chance to also visit the nearby islands of either Ithaca or Zakynthos.

Getting To & Around Kefalonia

Kefalonia is one of the most conveniently located Greek islands, with easy ferry transportation from the Greek mainland as well as an international airport serving both Greece and elsewhere in Europe.

If you plan to fly into Kefalonia, the Kefalonia airport is located just 8 km from the island’s capital city, Argostoli.

Due to the convenience of the island having its own airport, Kefalonia is an excellent Greek island destination for those searching for an island off the beaten path, yet still accessible by air. You can organise airport transfers here.

In the summer, you’ll find flights to Kefalonia from Athens, as well as various European countries such as the UK, France, Netherlands, Italy, and more.

For those already in Greece and who would like to visit Kefalonia by ferry, the island has two ports; Poros and Sami.

If you’re traveling to Kefalonia from the mainland, you have the option to travel from the southern Greek cities of either Patras or Kyllini, with the ferry route from Kyllini being the shortest travel time, taking around 1 ½ hours. You can view ferry schedules here.

While it isn’t possible to take a direct ferry from Athens to Kefalonia, if traveling by car is an option for you, enjoying a Peloponnese and Southern Greece road trip before heading to Kefalonia is worth the time.

There are also direct ferries to the island from other neighbouring islands like Corfu and Zakynthos along with direct routes from as far afield as Brindisi and Bari in Italy.

When it comes to getting around Kefalonia, traveling by car is undoubtedly the most convenient and enjoyable way to get around the island. With your own car, a Kefalonia road trip will give you the flexibility to move at your own place and discover offbeat parts of the island.

It’s important to also note that if you plan to rent a car for your time in Kefalonia and will be traveling from the mainland, make sure to rent a car from the mainland rather than the island as costs will be higher. You can browse car hire options here.

If you’re unable to rent a car to travel around Kefalonia, Kefalonia is a great island to travel to if you’ll be depending on public transportation.

The island has an extensive public transportation system, with bus routes through the entirety of the island, except for more mountainous and remote areas in the center of the island.

Alternatively, you will need to rely on organised tours to get around the island such as this half-day tour or this private tour.

As for walkability on the island, when spending time in various towns, it’s easy and enjoyable to walk around while taking in the stunning backdrops of this lush Ionian island.

3, 4 or 5 Days in Kefalonia Itinerary

While neighbors Corfu and Zakynthos are easily the most well-known Ionian islands, Kefalonia is surprisingly an unknown island to most international travelers, which makes it a bit less busy than hotspots like Mykonos or Santorini even if you’re traveling in high season.

Throughout this Kefalonia itinerary, you’ll enjoy some of the island’s best beaches, dig into the rich culture of the island, and even explore further into the Ionian if you’re spending 5 days in Kefalonia.

Day 1 – Petani Beach & Argostoli

Petani beach.

A pleasant start to a trip to this island begins at Petani Beach, a beautiful beach in Kefalonia nestled on the west coast between rugged green mountains and pristine aquamarine waters of the Ionian Sea.

Adored and known as one of the island’s most picturesque and enchanting destinations, Petani Beach is the perfect start to a relaxing and interesting stay in Kefalonia.

On Petani Beach you’ll find chairs and umbrellas available to rent for the day, along with a few taverns along the beach to keep you satisfied with local dishes and whatever you may need during your time at the beach.

An important and practical note regarding the beaches in Kefalonia: Make sure to have water shoes with you during most beach visits (except for Makris Gialos), as the majority of beaches on Kefalonia are made up of large rocks, making it quite difficult to get around as well as unpleasant without appropriate footwear.

After spending the morning and afternoon at alluring Petani Beach, move forward with your day by heading to the island’s capital city, Argostoli. While most time spent in Kefalonia is typically at its picturesque beaches, there are a handful of towns and villages worth wandering around, with Argostoli being one of them in this part of Kefalonia.

Known for its waterfront, atmosphere, and resilience after the island’s devastating earthquake in 1953, Argostoli captures the essence of Kefalonia and its people.

Spend your time in Argostoli by walking along the charming promenade along the water, dotted with cafes and local shops filled with Kefalonian specialties.

To delve into the island’s rich history while in Argostoli, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum as well as the iconic Drapano Bridge, the world’s longest stone bridge over a sea.

After spending time exploring the town itself, indulge in local cuisine at a traditional tavern such as Tzogias Taverna, to experience the delicious and culinary side of Kefalonia

Day 2 – Myrtos Beach & Asos Village

Myrtos beach.

There’s no place in Kefalonia like Myrtos Beach, the island’s famed jewel located on the northwestern side of the island.

For ten consecutive years, Myrtos Beach has earned its spot among the greatest beaches in the world. With its outstanding views, clear turquoise blue water, and serene ambience, it’s no surprise why.

To begin your day, spend at least a few hours basking in the Kefalonia sun, swimming in the fresh waters of Myrtos Beach, and taking in the unforgettable views of the beach, sea, and surrounding areas. There is no doubt that visiting this beautiful beach is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia.

Topping off the enjoyable experience at Myrtos Beach, is the affordable cost of sun chairs and umbrellas to rent for the day. While other beaches on other islands charge upwards of €40 for a set of chairs, you can expect to pay around €15 for a set of chairs at Myrtos Beach.

Lunch at Alexandros

After a blissful beach day, you’ll likely have built up an appetite and be ready for a hearty lunch.

As there aren’t many options for restaurants around Myrtos Beach or at the next and final stop of the day, I suggest heading to the restaurant, “Alexandros”, just a short 2 km away from Myrtos Beach. Here you’ll find savoury Greek tavern classics, with friendly service and local ingredients and flavours.

Assos Village

While already on the northwestern side of Kefalonia, you have the perfect opportunity at your hands to visit one of the most idyllic spots of Kefalonia, the fishing village of Assos.

Assos village is the perfect example of resilience, particularly in the face of the devastating Kefalonia earthquake. Despite being significantly affected by the earthquake, the village has risen from the rubble, showcasing the unwavering spirit of its people through the rebuilding of its buildings back to their original charm.

Perched upon the edge of the water, Assos truly feels like a village stopped in time, in a blissful and picturesque bubble. Walk around the village, admire the quaint fishing boats and shops, sip a coffee by the sea and enjoy the ambience of Assos.

While in Assos, it’s also worth making the trek to Assos Castle, typically taking around 30 minutes to an hour depending on the time of year and heat.

A Venetian fortification built in 1593, Assos Castle is now a collection of ruins, free for visitors to explore, with the most impeccable views of Assos and the surrounding areas during your ascent and descent.

If you’re interested in visiting another nearby village, consider heading a bit north to explore tranquil Fiskardo, as well, which is located only about 30 minutes from Assos.

Day 3 – Enjoy Kefalonia’s Stunning Landscape

Melissani cave.

Begin your 3rd day in Kefalonia at one of the island’s most remarkable natural wonders, the Melissani Cave. Located near the town of Sami, this natural wonder enchants all who visit with its stunning underground lake.

Upon arrival, you’ll board a small boat with a local guide and glide through the mesmerising cave, where sunlight filters through the collapsed ceiling, creating a spellbinding play of light and shadows on the turquoise waters below.

During the summer season, the cave is open to visit daily from 9:00 AM-7:00 PM, but to have the most enhanced experience during your time in the cave, it’s best to visit around 11:00 AM-2:00 PM, where the sun shines the strongest through the roof of the cave. You can also go on a guided tour here.

Antisamos Beach

After visiting the Melissani Cave, make your way about 7 km away to one of the most unique beaches on the island, Antisamos Beach.

Antisamos offers a picturesque setting framed by lush green hills and rugged cliffs, along with multiple beach bars to choose to spend your day at, all with affordable chairs/umbrellas and delicious food.

Surrounded by abundant greenery of pine trees and vegetation, Antisamos Beach feels like a pocket somewhere far off in a tropical or Amazonian land, along with a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters.

Antisamos Beach gained fame as a filming location for the movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin,” and once at the beach yourself, you’ll see why they drew inspiration for the film in this remarkable location.

After spending time at the nearby, loved beach of Antisamos, head just 4 km away to the town of Sami.

While Sami is a small town in comparison to the larger size of the capital city, Argostoli, it holds a captivating charm, making it worth the stop to have a wander and enjoy an ice cream while exploring the town’s harbour, with locals coming and going about in their daily lives.

If you have a keen interest in visiting monasteries, make sure to visit the Agrilion Monastery in Sami, an 18th-century monastery with gorgeous grounds as well as close-to-perfect views of the Kefalonian peninsula.

Day 4 – Gentilini Winery & Makris Gialos Beach

Gentilini winery.

Throughout Greece, you’ll find that most islands and regions of the country have unique wine varieties to the area. Kefalonia is no different, with an impressive wine production and a range of exceptional wines, capturing the heart and land of the island.

If you’re spending 4 days in Kefalonia, a great way to spend a large chunk of your 4th day on the island is by visiting a local winery or going on a wine tour to learn more about the wine production on the island, explore the vines and taste local varieties such as Robola and dry Mavrodaphne.

Gentilini Winery is a family-run boutique winery located on the southwest side of the island, producing top-quality wines from Kefalonia. The winery offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere reflected in its guided tours and wine tastings at the winery.

The winery is open from Orthodox Easter to late October every year, with affordable wine tastings and tours starting at €10, with prices increasing depending on the number of wines you wish to try during your visit.

Makris Gialos Beach

After a morning and early afternoon of wine tasting, continue a short journey of 2 km away to Makris Gialos Beach, a must for beach lovers in Kefalonia looking to enjoy a classic Greek beach experience.

Located near the town of Argostoli, this beach boasts golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters with a large stretch of sand available to just lay your towel if you’re not interested in paying for chairs/umbrellas.

Otherwise, Makris Gialos Beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside taverns, offering comfort and convenience. Whether you’re looking to relax under the Mediterranean sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, Makris Gialos Beach promises a delightful experience that will leave you rejuvenated and relaxed.

If you’re not keen to hang out on the beach, then consider heading further west from Argostoli to explore the charming little village of Lixouri instead.

Day 5 – Mount Ainos or Day Trip to Ithaca

For those lucky enough to spend 5 days in Kefalonia, I recommend one of two options for your 5th and final day; a day spent hiking on the island’s Mount Ainos National Park or venturing out on a day trip to the nearby island of Ithaca.

Mount Ainos National Park

Mount Ainos, the only national park located on a Greek island, is a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts visiting the island of Kefalonia. The national park offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, with the most popular trail being the marked circular path that leads to the summit.

Upon arrival at the national park, stop by the visitor center at the park entrance to get information, maps, and valuable insights into the flora and conservation efforts on the mountain.

A paradise for hikers, Mount Ainos National Park is not only full of invigorating trails but also abundant wildlife and outstanding views of Kefalonia and the surrounding Ionian islands of Zakynthos and Ithaca. Make sure to keep an eye out for the mystical wild horses of Mount Ainos, typically found free roaming as herds close to the summit of the mountain.

To visit, you can visit independently by car or take part in a guided group tour of the park, as it’s not possible to visit the national park by public transportation.

If you prefer to skip a day of hiking up Kefalonia’s Mount Ainos and would like to explore further, another option for day 5 is to take a day trip to the neighboring island of Ithaca, the home of Odysseus.

Ithaca is easily reached by ferry in just 30 minutes from the Port of Sami, making it the perfect addition to any Kefalonia itinerary for those hoping to visit this legendary island, known from Homer’s Odyssey in Greek mythology. Alternatively, you can go on a boat tour.

While Kefalonia has a hefty heart of tourism, Ithaca in comparison still feels quite wild, with a strong authenticity thanks to the lack of tourists visiting, which is why it’s included in this travel guide.

While in Ithaca, explore the picturesque port of Vathi, the Cave of Nymphs, the renowned archaeological site of Odysseus’ Palace, where history and myth intertwine, and enjoy the refreshing waters of one of the island’s tranquil beaches, such as Gidaki beach.

All in all, a day trip to Ithaca from Kefalonia is the ideal way to explore Greek mythology and experience another side of the Ionian islands.

Where to Stay on Kefalonia

Mouikis Hotel Kefalonia – Located in Argostoli, this 3-star hotel is a great base for mid-range visitors to Kefalonia. They have a number of great rooms to choose from, a perfect location for exploring the island and lots of amenities for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Thalassa Boutique Hotel – Those looking for a luxury escape while visiting Kefalonia will love this adults-only hotel. Boasting two beautiful swimming pools, plenty of gorgeous rooms and a great location in the town of Lassi, you’re sure to want for nothing during your stay. Click here to check availability

Staggia Studios – If you’re looking for a self-catering option on Kefalonia you’re sure to love these studios in the town of Sami. Fully equipped with everything you may need during your time on the island, there are a number of different flats to choose from. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Kefalonia hotels!

Kefalonia is an enchanting and vibrant island with much to offer visitors, whether you’re searching for a strict beach getaway, cultural exploration, or wholesome Greek tavern classics. After 3, 4, or 5 days in Kefalonia, you’ll undoubtedly be captured by its charm and be ready to visit next year.

Are you planning to visit Kefalonia Island? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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12 Best Things to do in Kefalonia, Greece

Nestled in the Ionian Sea, just off the coast of Greece, lies one of the best summertime treats – the island of Kefalonia. This small paradise offers many incredible things to do, from discovering breathtaking turquoise waters and serene beaches to exploring mysterious sea caves. Away from the coast, discover the isle’s tapestry of lush forests, rugged mountains, and crystalline springs. Combine all this with delicious cuisine and captivating historic villages, and you have an extraordinary destination to visit. Here are all the best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece .

Things to do in Kefalonia, Greece

Kefalonia is one of the hidden gems of Greece, with a diverse landscape, vibrant villages, and a tranquil atmosphere unlike any other in the country. In contrast to the iconic white houses you find in places like Santorini or Milos , Kefalonia is adorned with beautiful Mediterranean-style houses, adding to its distinct charm. 

From navigating the jaw-dropping cliff roads with panoramic views to lounging on one of the countless beaches (some of which can only be accessed by boat), there’s so much to discover. The locals are incredibly welcoming, and although it’s slowly growing in popularity, Kefalonia remains somewhat of a secret paradise still. 

1. Asos Village

Asos (or Assos) is a picturesque village that lies nestled in the lush, towering hills on the northern peninsula of Kefalonia, Greece. As you approach the village, colorful streets unfold before you, perched along the waters full of fishing boats and lush palms.

Explore the lively town and walk along the charming quay lined with cute tavernas and cafes, only pausing to indulge in a delicious frappe. Continue on, and you’ll eventually meet the village’s tranquil pebbled beach.

Hotels in Asos 😴

Above the bay across from town stands a Venetian castle (the town began under Venetian rule in 1593 when it was the administrative capital of northern Cephalonia). Because of this, you’ll find various ruins from this time perched between the town’s colorful houses. Though it’s a bit of a climb, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas over the beautiful village of Asos below.

Assos is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia, as it’s one of the most colorful villages in Greece. However, due to its size, parking is minimal. If you’re traveling by car, try to arrive as early as possible and park along the road (which is often shared with free-roaming goats!). Here’s the location .

We recommend to rent a car in Greece through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

2. Myrtos Beach – Top Thing to do in Kefalonia

About 15 minutes from Assos lies the most beautiful viewpoint of the island. Perched 320 meters high, it offers breathtaking views over the entire island of Kefalonia. It’s similar to the renowned Zakynthos shipwreck beach viewpoint on the neighboring island, where you’re treated to a great vantage point.

From here, explore the nearby sea cave, watch the azure blue waters and white pebbles of Myrtos Beach, or soak up the warm Mediterranean sun. Myrtos Beach is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece (You’ll also find our sticker here!).

Did you know? To get to the beach itself, you’ll have to drive down a winding asphalt road. During the high season, there’s also a beach club that offers daybeds, drinks, and snacks.

3. Melissani Cave  

Known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful scenery, the Melissani Lake Cave is one of the most popular things to do in Kefalonia. Embark on a boat trip with a knowledgeable guide to navigate through the cave’s waters, admiring the many stalactites.

A short walk through a tunnel leads you to the main highlight: a lake with an open ceiling, where natural light beams through onto the crystal-clear water. Here, hop on a boat for a 10-15 minute adventure and witness how the light rays shimmer onto the cave walls.

Entrance to the blue underground lake costs 10 EUR (10.70 USD) and includes the boat ride and admission to the captivating Drogarati Cave. If you’re just visiting the Melissani Cave, a single ticket costs 8 EUR (8.55 USD).

The best time to visit the cave is between 11 AM and 2 PM when the sunshine pierces the water from above. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time to visit, and you might have to wait in line. 

Book an organized tour of the Melissani and Drogarati Cave online

4. Ghost Town 

After an earthquake in 1953 shook the island, many people fled the beautiful towns of Kefalonia. Though some people did return, a few villages remain abandoned. These ghost towns now stand frozen in time as a testament to the island’s history and resilience. Perhaps one of the most interesting experiences is to roam through one of these villages and take in the quiet atmosphere.

Old Vlachata

Old Vlachata is one of the ghost towns in Kefalonia, previously inhabited by over 800 people. From the facades of buildings, streets, wells, old stone ovens, and many tools and objects left behind by settlers, there’s a lot to see on a quick visit. Witness the silent passage of time within the remains of the village as it’s slowly being reclaimed by nature, with trees and greenery interwoven amidst the crumbling structures.

How to get to Old Vlachata

To get to the town of Vlachata, you can hike, bike, or drive the 5-kilometer journey from Sami-Karavomylos. The village also lies close to other island highlights, like the Melissani Cave, making Vlachata an interesting thing to do in Kefalonia. 

Here are all your hotel options in Kefalonia.

5. Mt. Ainos National Park 

Mount Ainos reigns as the tallest mountain in Kefalonia, reaching an impressive height of 1.628 meters. This grand mountain is part of the National Park, with a picturesque landscape full of pines and fir trees. However, what really makes Mount Ainos unique is that it’s the only national park on the island — spanning over 3000 hectares.

Between the lusciousness, many hiking trails take you through the park and past breathtaking viewpoints where you can admire the landscape from above. If you have the time, hike the popular Megas Soros trail, which takes you all the way to the summit of Mt. Ainos (4.5 hours). Up here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the hills, limestone outcrops, and shimmering Ionian Sea.

Also read: The best things to do in Athens, Greece

6. Drogarati Cave

Drogarati Cave is an impressive natural wonder and one of the best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece. It’s often combined with the other cave on the island, Melissani Lake, known as one of the most captivating underground treasures. 

Rich in geological history, the Drogarati Cave has an interesting backstory. It was discovered in the 18th century after an earthquake opened up the entrance. These days, to enter the cave, you’ll descend a short flight of stairs, which will lead you to a beautiful chamber full of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is nicely illuminated, allowing you to fully take in the colorful sights.

Did you know? The cave’s largest room spans an extraordinary 900 square meters and has even housed concerts and other events because of its incredible acoustics.

Visiting the Drogarati Cave

A visit to the Drogarati cave typically takes no more than 10 minutes but is really worth a visit! It’s also a welcome escape from the hot summer sun with a cool temperature of 18 degrees. 

Entrance to the cave costs 5 EUR (5.35 USD) or 10 EUR (10.70 USD) for a combined ticket with Melissani Cave.

Tip: Keep in mind that the cave can be slippery due to water drops, so be careful as you walk. 

7. Argostoli City

Welcome to Argostoli, the bustling capital and largest town of Kefalonia. Located on one of the western peninsulas of the island and connected by a pedestrian bridge that spans the water, it offers a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly blends the charm of a town with the conveniences of a city. 

Hotels in Argostoli 😴

Stroll along the lovely boulevard and square, stop at the different restaurants, bars, and shops, and visit the Archeological Museum. The picturesque harbor makes a beautiful setting, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot turtles lazily swimming in the bay.

Argostoli serves as the island’s beating heart, making it a great base for day trips to nearby highlights and beaches. 

8. Go Beach-Hopping 

Stunning turquoise waters, soft yellow sand, and sky-high rocky cliffs are what you can expect from the beaches in Kefalonia, Greece. Nothing tops soaking up the warm summer sun while you laze on your beach towel and listen to the gentle waves of the Ionian Sea. Some of our favorites are:

• Kako Lagadi Beach (Asprogerakas) – a tiny bay with crystal clear waters and light pebbles, best visited early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
• Fteri Beach – turquoise waters, dramatic coastline, and unique scenery make Fteri Beach one of the best things to do in Kefalonia. To get there, you’ll either have to arrange a boat, join a cruise, or hike one of the two trails that start in Atheras village and Zola.

• Antisamos Beach – best for swimming and sunbathing. This east coast beach is famous as the location of the Hollywood movie ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’.
• Makris Gialos Beach – a beautiful golden bay surrounded by rock formations and pine trees, located close to the island’s capital city Argostoli. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar here.
• Emplisi Beach – partially covered by trees, Emplisi Beach lies in the north of Kefalonia. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling or SUP surfing.

• Pessada Beach – home to shallow and clear water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a wild and rugged area with no amenities, which adds to its private charm. There’s a tiny parking area (just for a few cars), so get here early. 
• Skala Beach – a long sandy beach situated in the small fishing village of Skala on the southern point of Kefalonia. Just above the beach, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and mini-markets.

Also read: The complete Greek island hopping guide

9. Fiskardo

Fiskardo is undoubtedly one of the most charming and picturesque villages in Kefalonia, Greece. Surrounded by beautiful bays of crystal-clear water on the island’s northern tip, this maritime town offers many things to do.

Soak up the quaint atmosphere as you wander through the town, admiring the vibrant colors of the flowers and shutters on the houses. Or, rent a bike and tour along the unpaved roads, watching as the locals tend to their boats in the port. 

Nearby you’ll find the Venetian Lighthouse and Emplisi and Foki Beach, where you get to bask in the beautiful waters. From here, embark on one of the many hiking trails, or head out onto the Ionian Sea with a SUP or boat to discover hidden gems in the area.

Alternatively, history lovers will enjoy the Roman Cemetery, revealing an interesting glimpse into the past with numerous sites dating back to the first Christian Era (2nd century A.D.!).

Hotels in Fiskardo 😴

The village is also home to many charming tavernas, cafes, bakeries, and boutiques, making it the perfect place to delve into delicious Greek cuisine (a must-try cafe for breakfast is Melina). A trip to Fiskardo is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia. 

10. Visit a Winery

Besides olive oil and honey, Greece is famously known for its delicious wine production. Kefalonia, in particular, boasts a unique grape variety called Robola, which is exclusively grown in this area, thriving on Kefalonia’s steep and rocky slopes.

Beautiful wineries across the island showcase the quality and character of this delicious product, like the renowned Orealios Gaea Winery and Haritatos Estate. The winemaking here is done with minimal interaction, letting nature run its course.

Explore the distinctive flavor of Kefalonia’s Robola wines by joining a tour – perfect for wine enthusiasts!

11. Monastery of Agios Gerasimos

Nestled next to the Orealios Gaea Winery, under the majestic Mount Ainos, lies the monastery of Agios Gerasimos in Kefalonia. This sacred pilgrimage site is dedicated to the island’s patron saint, St. Gerasimos, who lived during the 16th century. With its radiant frescoes, a courtyard full of plane trees, and gleaming silver reliquary, the pinkish building makes a must-visit on the island.  

Inside, you’ll find a trap door that leads to a cave. This is believed to be the hermitage where Gerasimos lived before the monastery’s construction. The saint’s body remains on the location, preserved inside the neighboring church. Both buildings are free to visit.  

12. Castle of Agios Georgios

Perched high atop a hill stands the Castle of Agios Georgios in all its grandeur and history. The impressive remains of this great fortress lie only 15 minutes outside the capital Argostoli, making it the perfect location to visit on a day trip out of town. As you explore the romantic Byzantine ruins surrounded by the beautiful Mount Ainos and the Ionian Sea, immerse yourself in the fascinating legacies of this ancient stronghold.

Nowadays, the captivating old walls lay intertwined with overgrown greenery, offering a little glimpse into the island’s rich history.

Tip: After your visit, we recommend heading to Il Borgo Restaurant for a delicious lunch. 

Entrance Fee & Opening Times: The entrance fee to the castle ruins of St. George is 3 EUR (3.20 USD) per person. The grounds are open daily from 8.30 AM – 3.30 PM except on Tuesdays.

The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Kefalonia

Kefalonia boasts a wide variety of traditional dishes that, just like the Robola wine, are unique to the Greek island. Whether it’s the famous appetizer Riganada, Strapatsada (scrambled eggs) for breakfast, or Ladokouloura cookies (made with olive oil) – there’s a lot to try. Some of our favorite food spots on the island are:

• Alexandros Restaurant Grill
• Il Borgo Restaurant
• 3 Wise Monkeys
• Makis Restaurant
• Kefall-oinia
• Melina (Breakfast & Lunch)
• Sea-Rock-ws

Tip: In Greece, you always get dessert, whether it’s a drink or a proper Greek yogurt treat! 

Where to Stay

With so many beautiful locations on the island, there’s no wrong area you can stay in. Especially if you’re traveling through Kefalonia by car, it’s easy to get to all the island’s highlights. However, we recommend basing yourself in Argostoli or North in Assos or Fiskardo. From here, you can make easy day trips, and you’re also close to the airport. We stayed a few days at this hotel in Argostoli .

If you’re traveling the island with multiple people, it’s a lot of fun to rent a villa together. We stayed with a friend in late April at this villa , and it was the best place ever! 

If a resort holiday is more your thing, then it’s best to stay in the south/southeast near Skala. Here you’ll find more beach clubs and restaurants, but you’re further away from all the things to do in Kefalonia.

How Many Days in Kefalonia?

To see most of the beautiful Kefalonia, Greece, we recommend staying at least 4 days on the island. Start in Argostoli and visit the surrounding sites like the wineries, monastery, and castle.

From there, make your way to the stunning Myrtos beach and the bustling town of Assos. After soaking up the tranquil atmosphere, head over to the quaint fisherman’s town of Fiskardo. Here, explore the caves, Antisamos Beach, and Old Vlachata (if you’ve got the time). 

Island hopping is very popular in Greece, as there are so many to visit. Read our complete Greece Island Hopping travel guide.

How to Visit Kefalonia, Greece

As the island is slowly becoming a more popular travel destination in Greece, there’s now an international airport with connections to other destinations in Europe and daily flights from Athens.

Getting Around

The best way to get around the stunning island is either by rental car or motorbike, as buses aren’t common. With your own transportation, it only takes 1.5 hours to get from one side of the island to the other. There are a few motorbike rentals on the island. 

Though far less crowded than the neighboring island Zakynthos, it can get very busy on the road during the peak months (July – August). You’ll find some narrow roads, especially around the mountains, but there are also some great highways. We highly recommend renting a car or driver to get around Kefalonia, Greece.

How Much Does Kefalonia Cost?

Compared to popular Greek destinations like Santorini or Mykonos, Kefalonia offers a much more affordable experience. While prices depend on the season, accommodation, food, and activities remain quite reasonable. 

Costs of Traveling in Kefalonia

Travel on a budget in Kefalonia, from $290 − $390 USD weekly per person, mid-range $710 − $1320 USD, and high-end from $1270 − $1810 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $3 − $30 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $5 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Travel

The best time to travel to Kefalonia, Greece, is outside the main travel season (July – August). During these summer months, there is a high volume of traffic. Because of this, visiting in May- June or September is much better. The weather is warm, the island is green, and there are fewer vehicles and people on the island.

Outside the peak months, the island gets really quiet as not many people live here (most only visit in the summer). If you’re visiting during the low season, April – May or October, it’s best to call a restaurant beforehand to see if it’s open. 

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9 Best Things to do in Paros, Greece 

Milos, greece: 12 best things to do, renting a car in greece in 2024: all you need to know.

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KEFALONIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Kefalonia (also spelt Cephalonia) is a greek island in the Ionian Sea with magnificent scenery, fantastic beaches, high mountains, lush vegetation, picturesque seaside villages and hospitable people.

Kefalonia is a popular summer tourist destination for greeks and foreign nationals, and one of the best greek islands to spend your summer holidays.

This travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Kefalonia by showing you the top attractions and things to do , best beaches & places to visit including maps , photos and itinerary .

INTRODUCTION TO KEFALONIA

Why visit Kefalonia

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands with stunning beaches and beautiful mountainous and coastal scenery.

An ideal destination for a relaxed holiday in the sun , but also for people looking for something more adventurous or cultural, as it combines beach activities with hiking opportunities, scenic drives, and visits to unique caves and picturesque seaside villages .

It has been made famous as the setting of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin film. It is very popular with Greeks, Italians, and the last few years with other foreign nationals as a package holiday destination with direct flights to the island.

Most of Kefalonia has been destroyed by the 1953 earthquake and most towns and villages were completely rebuilt.

Kefalonia has some famous sights and attractions worth visiting, like the famous Myrtos and Petani beaches, Mount Ainos (Enos), Melissani and Drogarati Caves, and the cosmopolitan Fiskardo and picturesque Asos seaside villages.

The main town and capital of the island is Argostoli, but the main ferry ports are Poros and Sami . Lixouri is the second largest town.

BEST TIME TO VISIT KEFALONIA

The best time for a beach holiday on the island of Kefalonia is from June to mid-September. The weather is dry, sunny and warm, although there is a possibility of rain in September. Also, most tourist facilities are only open during these months. However, due to the mountainous terrain, it can be cloudy at higher altitudes even in the summer months. The sea is warmer from mid-July to mid-September. I would probably avoid peak tourist season: mid-July to late August, especially the first 3 weeks of August, as the island tends to be crowded with mostly Greeks and Europeans on vacation, and prices are higher. The weather can also be very hot, with temperatures over 30°C.

For me, the best time to visit is the middle of June or the beginning of September when the temperatures are more favourable, there are fewer people and the prices are cheaper, but you can still swim in the sea and enjoy the buzz of the island.

In May, it can be a little cold to swim and sunbathe in the sea, but mostly the weather is dry and sunny. October is still warm, but there are significantly more clouds and the chance of rainy days is higher.

During the low season, there are fewer ferries and flights and some shops, hotels and restaurants, especially in tourist areas, close in October and don’t open until April-May, usually around Easter.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN KEFALONIA

Kefalonia is a big island (about 904sqkm), so I would recommend a minimum stay of 5 days , as exploring the island can be quite hectic with long drives. Travelling from one side to another can be tiring.

Ideally, you should stay on the island for a full week if you would like to explore it at a more relaxed pace and combine it with a day trip to neighbouring Ithaki (Ithaca) .

WHERE TO STAY IN KEFALONIA

The most popular places to stay in Kefalonia are Argostoli, Lassi (near Makris Gialos) & Skala , but you could also stay in Poros, Lixouri, Agia Efimia, Asos, Sami and Fiskardo , as they also provide hotels and tourist amenities.

There are also other less popular places to stay in various parts of the island like Kato Katelios , Lourdata as well as plenty of hotels around the airport .

For me, Argostoli, Lassi or Sami are the best places to stay with a lot of tourist amenities and also well located to explore the rest of the island.

Lixouri is a bit out of the way but provides more affordable options .

Asos and Fiskardo are the most picturesque seaside villages , but accommodation can be expensive .

Skala is a good place if you want to be close to a nice beach and is popular with package holidaymakers, but it is further away from the rest of the sights.

Lassi is a good option if you want to combine both, close to a big town (Argostoli), but also to the beach of Maktris Gialos .

Best hotels in Kefalonia

• Kefalonia Grand Hotel : Situated on Argostoli waterfront with most rooms with a balcony and sea views and great staff.
• Canale Hotel & Suites : Great hotel in Argostoli Harbour with superb breakfast and amazing staff.
• Mouikis Hotel Kefalonia : This hotel centrally located in Argostoli offers rooms with a balcony, a nice rooftop terrace, a good breakfast and private parking.
• White Rocks Hotel Kefalonia : Located by Platis Gialos Beach with panoramic views of the sea and its own outdoor pool.
• Regina Dell’ Acqua : Situated in Skala this is a 5-star luxury hotel close to the beach.
• Melidron Hotel : A small family-run hotel well situated in Skala close to the town and beach.
• Fiskardo Bay Hotel : Located a short walk from the scenic Fiscardo waterfront offers rooms with a balcony and great views and a swimming pool
• Emelisse : Peaceful location close to Emplisi Beach and 15min walk from Fiskardo with spacious rooms, great restaurant and staff.
• F Zeen Retreat : Situated close to Lourdata Beach this hotel offers spacious rooms and great facilities.
• Odyssey Boutique Hotel : Luxury 4-star hotel in Agia Efimia with views of the Ionian Sea
• Sami Beach Hotel : Decent hotel by the beach between Sami and Karavomilos.
• Assos View Villas : Beautiful villas with a pool and amazing views of Asos.
• Hotel Summery : This hotel is located next to the beach and very close to the central square of Lixouri. Good value for money.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole island. You can find the hotels on this map .

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

No visas are required for visits up to 90 days for most nationalities.

Kefalonia is a safe place and you shouldn’t come across any issues during your stay. However, it’s worth keeping an eye on your belongings and use common-sense precautions in crowded tourist areas.

Travel Insurance

It’s always advisable to get travel insurance . You never know what might happen; better to be fully covered in case of an accident, medical emergency or flight delays.

SafetyWing is an excellent choice for long-term travellers. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

Kefalonia has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers.

Summer (June to mid-September) : The weather is dry, sunny and hot. Average temperatures are between 21 to 30 degrees.

Autumn (mid-September to November) : The weather starts to get cloudier, colder and also rainier. Average temperatures are between 16 to 22 degrees. November and December are the rainiest months in Kefalonia.

Winter (December to mid-March) : It can get quite cold and windy and also rainy and sometimes it even snows on Mount Ainos. Average temperatures are between 9 to 15 degrees. The coldest month is  February .

Spring (mid-March to May) : The weather starts getting warmer and sunnier with average temperatures between 12 to 20 degrees.

You can check historical weather data here .

For greek weather websites, you can visit: Meteo or Freemeteo

Greek , but most people in tourist areas speak some english or italian.

The currency is the euro. It’s worth having some cash with you as some small shops, cafes or restaurants as well as boat tour operators might not accept cards. The best place to exchange some money is through an ATM that can be found in the main towns and resorts of the island.

Kefalonia isn’t a very expensive island, but prices are much higher (almost double) during July and August, especially for accommodation. Eating out is very affordable.

The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F (with two round pins). The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Packing List

If you visit in the summertime like most tourists, you will only need to pack summer clothes, walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, flip flops, sunscreen and swimwear. However, I will recommend having a light summer jacket , as it can get cooler up in the mountains and at night, especially in September and May.

For more information on travel gear and what to pack click below .

Internet/Mobile Phone

To avoid roaming charges, you can buy a local SIM card in one of the shops of either Wind , Vodafone or Cosmote (the main mobile providers) in Argostoli.

Airalo is also a good alternative as it provides access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards) for over 200 countries. Travellers can download and install a digital data pack and get free internet without roaming charges.

However, Airalo is compatible with only the latest mobile phones

HOW TO GET TO KEFALONIA

Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou is connected to Athens (2-3 daily, 1hr) all year round and also to some other domestic destinations, like Zakynthos, Preveza and Corfu during summer. During summer, the airport also receives low-cost flights from many European countries.

If you are travelling from Athens, taking a flight can be a bit more expensive than taking the ferry from Patra or Killini, especially in the high season. However, it is much more convenient and definitely recommended if you have limited time in Greece.

For the best website to book your flights, check the link below. Always check prices in advance for the best deals.

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 7km south of Argostoli. Upon your arrival, you can rent a car (highly recommended) in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive.

There is a taxi service outside the terminal building. The journey to Argostoli is about 15min and costs around €15 euros, while the trip to Lassi is only 10min and costs €10 . A taxi ride to Skala costs around €50 and takes about 45min, while a ride to Sami costs around €40 .

There is also a limited bus service between the airport and the capital Argostoli. The bus stop is located on the left side of the main entrance of the departures building.

It is also worth checking with your hotel as most of them offer airport transfers at an extra charge.

Kefalonia has two main ferry ports ( Sami & Poros ) that provide connections to the mainland. There are ferries from the port of Patra to Sami via Ithaki (1 daily, 3 hours, €15.5 ) and Killini to Poros (4 daily, 1.5h, €13.50 ) or Astakos to Sami (1 daily, 2.5h).

Kefalonia is also connected by ferry to other islands a few times per week: Zakynthos (Agios Nikolaos to Pesada, 1 hour or Zakynthos to Sami, 3 hours), Lefkada (Vassiliki to Fiskardo, 1 hour or Lefkada to Sami, 3.5h) and Ithaki (Pisaetos to Sami, 30 minutes).

If you don’t have your own vehicle, Kefalonia is connected to Athens by bus (KTEL) every day of the year. The buses depart from Athens and arrive in Patras and Killini to connect with the departure of the ferries for the island. The trip Athens-Kefalonia via Patras lasts 6 hours and arrives at Sami while via Killini lasts about 5 hours and arrives at Poros.

For the cheapest site to book your ferry ticket in Greece, check the link below.

HOW TO GET AROUND KEFALONIA

I would recommend hiring a car if you would like to explore the island , as it gives you the freedom to go to more remote areas and stop wherever you like to appreciate the views.

Car rental for a day is usually 50 euros in the peak summer season. Better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season (July/August), there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive.

Most of the car rental offices are located at the airport or around Argostoli and Lassi. There are some at the ferry ports of the island (Sami). Renting at the airport is usually the cheapest option.

Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

There are taxi stands in Argostoli but taxis can be a bit expensive if you plan to go further distances.

Indicative fares of taxi routes :

• Argostoli to Lassi €7 (5min)
• Argostoli to Sami: €40 (45min)
• Argostoli to Skala: €35 (50min)
• Argostoli to Poros: €60 (57min)
• Argostoli to Fiskardo: €75 (70min)
• Argostoli to Asos: €60 (55min)

There is a decent but limited bus service that connects Argostoli with the main villages and resorts of the island. Although public transport is cheap , bus services are not that frequent and you need to plan in advance if you are relying on public transport. For more information visit the KTEL Kefalonia site .

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

The best places to go for a meal are Argostoli, Fiskardo harbour, Lixouri and Sami for the best choices in a beautiful setting. For good restaurants by the sea, you can also visit Kato Katelios and Agia Efimia. There are also good restaurants in the resorts of Lassi and Skala. Below you can find a list of some of the best restaurants in Kefalonia.

Best restaurants in Kefalonia

• Tassia Restaurant : One of the most famous restaurants in Kefalonia to sample astakomakaronada overlooking the Fiskardo harbour.
• Melograno Restaurant
• Vasso’s Restaurant
• Spiros Restaurant
• Ampelaki Greek Restaurant
• Agrapidos Taverna
• Pomantza Traditional Fish Tavern
• Ta Pitharia Tavern
• Zefki Greek Traditional Tavern
• Blue Sea Restaurant
• Maria’s Restaurant

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map .

Local Cuisine

• Meat Pie (kreatopita) : Pastry with minced meat
• Bakaliaros with agliada : Salted cod with potatoes and garlic sauce
• Strapatsada : Scrambled eggs fried with tomatoes and feta cheese
• Tsigaridia : Greens cooked with tomato sauce
• Mandolato: Sweet made of almonds and sugar (soft nougat)
• Local Robola Wine is quite famous and worth trying
• More information about the best greek dishes you can find here .

THINGS TO DO IN KEFALONIA

Best sights and attractions

1. Enjoy one of the scenic drives

It is worth renting a car and exploring the island as it offers some stunning drives with great views of the mountains and coastline.

2. Swim at one of the amazing beaches – Myrtos, Petani, Antisamos & Xi

Myrtos is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches in Greece. The combination of white pebbles, turquoise waters, and steep cliffs creates a breathtaking scene.

Petani is also a beautiful beach in great surroundings as well as Antisamos with its lush greenery and Xi beach with its unique red sand and white cliffs.

3. Visit the seaside village of Fiskardo

Fiskardo is a picturesque village with preserved Venetian architecture. You can explore its narrow streets, enjoy the colorful buildings, and have a meal in one of the waterfront tavernas.

4. Visit Asos village and its fort

Assos is a charming village with colourful houses situated on a peninsula. You can explore the Venetian castle ruins and enjoy the views of the Ionian Sea.

5. Melissani Cave

You can take a boat tour of Melissani Cave, an underground lake with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The cave is surrounded by lush vegetation, and sunlight creates stunning reflections on the water.

6. Cave of Drogarati

You can explore Drogarati Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave’s acoustics are utilized for concerts and events.

7. Visit busy Argostoli and spot sea turtles

Argostoli is a great place to spot the Careta Careta sea turtles that come every morning to the harbour to eat any leftovers from the fishermen’s morning catch.

8. Hike Mount Ainos

Mount Ainos is the highest peak in Kefalonia, offering hiking trails with beautiful views. The national park is home to the rare Kefalonian fir tree.

9. Take a day trip to Ithaki

Kefalonia is close to the island of Ithaca, known for its connection to Homer’s Odyssey. You can take a boat trip to explore Ithaca’s charming villages and landscapes.

10. Agios Gerasimos Monastery and Robola winery

It is worth visiting the monastery of Agios Gerasimos, the e patron saint of Kefalonia. The monastery is a place of pilgrimage and houses the saint’s relics.

You can learn about the island’s winemaking tradition by visiting the Robola Wine Cooperative, where you can taste and purchase local wines

11. Agios Georgios Castle

You can visit the Agios Georgios Castle near Perata which provides great views of the southwest coast of Kefalonia

KEFALONIA BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. argostoli.

Argostol i is Kefalonia’s capital town , built amphitheatrically within a bay. The town was mostly destroyed in the 1953 earthquake and most houses were rebuilt. It is a great place for an evening stroll along the pedestrian street and Vallianou Square and also at the waterfront , which is full of yachts and boats .

It is the best place to stay on the island with lots of hotels , restaurants , bars and all the tourist amenities . However, there is no beach within walking distance, the closest beach is in the Lassi Area .

Argostoli is well connected with Lixouri with frequent ferries (every 30min, 20min).

Some of the best attractions and best things to do in Argostoli are summarised below:

• Watch the sea turtles : Caretta-caretta sea turtles can be spotted in the Argostoli harbour every morning. Turtles can be seen around the fishing boats, coming to eat the fish thrown from the fishermen’s morning catch.
• Walk along the Lithostroto: Stroll along Lithostroto, the main pedestrian street in Argostoli, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and some shopping.
• Observe the De Bosset Bridge: Check out the De Bosset Bridge, a historic stone bridge that connects Argostoli with the opposite side of the lagoon. It’s a picturesque spot for a walk and offers great views of the Argostoli and the bay.
• Try Local Cuisine at the Waterfront Tavernas: Argostoli’s waterfront is lined with tavernas offering delicious Greek cuisine. Try local specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and seafood dishes.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli: Explore the Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from different periods of Kefalonia’s history, including Mycenaean and Roman artifacts.
• Take a Boat Trip to Lixouri: Hop on a ferry or boat for a short trip across the bay to Lixouri, the second-largest town on the island. Explore Lixouri’s charming streets, squares, and beaches.
• Relax at Vallianos Square: Spend some time at Vallianos Square, a central square surrounded by cafes and shops. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.
• See the Katavothres Geological Phenomenon: Witness the Katavothres geological phenomenon, where seawater mysteriously disappears into sinkholes and re-emerges in the Melissani Cave, several kilometers away.
• Explore the St. Theodore Lighthouse: Drive or hike to the St. Theodore Lighthouse for nice views of the coastline. It’s a scenic spot to capture photos.
• Visit the Koutavos Lagoon: Explore the Koutavos Lagoon, located near Argostoli. You can walk or cycle along the lagoon, enjoying the natural beauty and observing the birdlife.
• Visit the Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum: Explore the Korgialenio Museum to learn about the history, culture, and folklore of Kefalonia. The museum displays artifacts and exhibits related to the island’s past.

2. Fiskardo

Fiskardo is a cosmopolitan seaside village with colourful traditional houses , chic restaurants , boutiques, bars and cafes. It is a lovely place for a stroll but it does get very crowded during the summer months. It is also a great place to taste seafood in one of the fish tavernas on the waterfront. Fiskardo is a mooring area for luxury yachts and it’s very popular with the international jet set .

It is worth visiting the Roman cemetery and the Venetian Lighthouse .

There are two good pebble beaches close to Fiskardo, Emplisi and Foki Beach .

3. Asos (Assos)

Asos is one of the most picturesque seaside villages in Kefalonia, built in a small isthmus between the mainland and the small Asos peninsula . The peninsula has a Venetian fort at the top of the hill, which is worth climbing, as it offers spectacular views of Asos village and the Kefalonia coastline. Its waterfront is popular with yachts and fishing boats and it has a small pebble beach and a few tavernas. There is a paved path from the village to the top of the hill and the 16th-century Venetian castle with marvellous views of the surrounding area along the way. The hike up takes about 30min . It’s free to enter the fort and the castle but there is not a lot to see apart from ruins but the views are worth the hike. All that is left is the remains of the castle walls with the arched gate, Agios Markos church and parts of the barracks.

Sami is the main ferry port of Kefalonia with ferry connections to Pisaetos in Ithaki, but also to Astakos and Patra. There is an ok white sand beach between Sami and Karavomilos. Karavomilos has a nice small lake.

Sami is a nice seaside town and a great base to explore the island. There is a choice of some decent accommodation options and nice restaurants and cafes by the seafront.

The best nearby beach is located further away from the town. Antisamos Beach , one of the best on the island, is located to the north of the town, a 10min scenic drive.

You can also visit the Akropolis of Ancient Sami up on the hill, easily accessible by car, which offers some great views towards the town and the greater area. There you can see the remains of the Cyclopean walls as well as remnants of an ancient theatre.

5. Agia Effimia

It is a nice seaside village with a small fishing harbour. It has become quite popular in the last few years with some good accommodation options and restaurants by the seafront.

Lixouri is the second biggest town of Kefalonia, located in Paliki peninsula on the other side of Argostoli. It is a nice and quiet seaside town with two-storey buildings and a decent seafront. Good for an evening stroll and dinner by the sea. It offers some affordable accommodation options and decent seafood tavernas.

It is well connected with Argostoli by frequent ferries (every 30min until midnight, 20min). it is worth taking the ferry even if you have a car as it saves about 1h travelling by road. Ferry prices are cheap.

There is a small beach at the south side of the harbour but the closest decent beach is Lepeda . Lepeda is a beautiful, red sandy beach, about 2.5km on foot to the south of Lixouri.

It is the island’s second main port with ferries to Killini on the mainland. It is a busy town with a decent white pebbly beach at the north side. It has some good accommodation options and a few restaurants.

Lassi is the most popular tourist resort in Kefalonia, close to Argostoli, with two cosmopolitan sandy beaches: Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos in the vicinity.

There are a lot of hotels scattered around Lassi Area. Restaurants and bars as well as shops and souvenir stores can be found along the village’s main street.

9. Kourkoumelata

This is a small village but has some very neoclassical buildings and a beautiful square and it’s worth having a stroll. It is worth also visiting for the sea views.

10. Peratata

It is a nice village close to the Castle of Agios Georgios.

11. Kato Katelios

This is a small resort on the south of the island with a nice little harbour, a decent beach and some good fish tavernas.

12. Old Vlachata

This is a village in ruins but it is an interesting place to visit to discover Kefalonia’s past. You can see the old stone houses as they used to be before the earthquake.

13. Valsamata

The village is located between hills on Omala plateau and is surrounded by vineyards

Skala is the biggest resort on the south coast with a nice sandy beach. It is popular with package holidaymakers. It offers some great hotel options by the sea and the town has some good restaurants, bars and most of the tourist amenities.

KEFALONIA BEST BEACHES

Kefalonia has some amazing beaches with crystal-clear water . On the north coast, most of them are with white pebbles and sand, while on the south coast are with golden sand. Some of the most popular beaches in Kefalonia are Myrtos Beach, Petani Beach, Skala, Antisamos Beach and Makris Gialos as well as Xi Beach with its red-coloured sand.

Below is a list of the 35 best beaches on the island.

• Myrtos Beach: Myrtos is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It features white pebbles, turquoise waters, and a backdrop of steep cliffs. The contrast between the sea and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking.
• Petani Beach: One of the most spectacular beaches in Kefalonia with white sand and pebbles. Nestled between cliffs, Petani Beach is known for its stunning sunset views. The beach has white pebbles and clear waters.
• Antisamos Beach: Antisamos gained fame as one of the filming locations for the movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.” It is a beautiful beach with turquoise waters and lush green surroundings.
• Xi Beach: Xi Beach is distinctive for its reddish-brown sand and clay cliffs. The beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, and the shallow waters make it suitable for families.
• Makris Gialos Beach: Located near the capital, Argostoli, Makris Gialos is a well-organized beach with golden sands and clear waters. It’s popular among both locals and tourists.
• Platys Gialos Beach: This beach offers soft golden sands and shallow waters, making it family-friendly. There are various water sports and facilities available, and it’s close to Lassi, a popular resort area.
• Platia Ammos Beach : One of the most stunning beaches on the island with white sand and clear waters. However the road getting there is not the best, and the steps down to the beach have been damaged. It is still possible to visit but needs caution. The viewpoint at the top is a must.
• Kaminia Beach: It is a long sandy and remote beach surrounded by nature. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty.
• Skala Beach: Skala is a popular resort area, and its beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles. The long shoreline provides plenty of space, and there are various amenities nearby.
• Fteri Beach : An amazing remote beach with white sand and surrounded by cliffs. It is only accessible by sea taxi (from Agia Kiriaki – 20€) or a hike of 1.5 hours.
• Agia Kiriaki Beach : A picturesque white pebble beach with clear blue waters.
• Foki Beach: Foki is a smaller, more secluded beach near Fiskardo. It has pebbles and crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Lourdata Beach: Lourdata is a long sandy beach with clear blue waters near Lourdata village.
• Atheras Beach : A fine strip of sand in Paliki Peninsula with shallow waters. The road getting there offers some great views of the bay.
• Kounopetra Beach : A reddish sandy beach surrounded by white cliffs, more peaceful than Xi with shallow waters.
• Megas Lakkos Beach: A quiet and unspoiled beach with golden sands and clear waters. It’s less crowded than some of the more popular beaches on the island.
• Lepeda Beach: Located near Lixouri, Lepeda has unique reddish-orange sands and is known for its stunning sunset views. The water is usually calm, making it suitable for swimming.
• Amidi Beach : Beautiful, but secluded beach. Accessible only by boat.
• Ammes Beach: Ammes is a sandy beach with shallow waters, making it suitable for families with children. It’s conveniently located near the airport.
• Paliostafida Beach : Nice and quiet beach with transparent and shallow sea, perfect for families.
• Megali Ammos Beach: Translating to “Big Sand,” Megali Ammos is a sandy beach located near Argostoli. It’s a family-friendly beach with shallow waters.
• Vatsa Beach: Vatsa is a less crowded beach with pebbles and crystal-clear waters. It’s a peaceful spot for those looking to escape the more touristy areas.
• Jerusalem Beach: A secluded beach with a combination of sand and pebbles. The waters are calm and inviting, making it a peaceful place to relax.
• Emplisi Beach: Near Fiskardo, Emplisi is a pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters. The surrounding cliffs and greenery add to the scenic beauty.
• Minies Beach
• Giagana Beach
• Gradakia Beach
• Eglina Beach
• Avithos Beach
• Ai Helis Beach
• Trapezaki Beach: Trapezaki is a sandy beach with clear waters, located on the southern part of the island. It’s organized with sunbeds and umbrellas and has nearby tavernas.
• Alaties Beach: Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, Alaties is a small beach surrounded by rocks. It’s a picturesque spot for swimming and snorkelling.
• Koroni Beach
• Poros Beach

KEFALONIA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best attractions, restaurants & hotels, as well as the best villages and beaches to visit in Kefalonia.

KEFALONIA ITINERARY

It is worth staying in Kefalonia for a week if you want to explore it. The following itinerary includes things to do for 7 days on the island. I have taken Argostoli as a base & overnight stay for the duration of the holiday; this itinerary might work slightly differently if you stay in other parts of the island.

• Visit Drogarati Cave
• Visit the Acropolis of Ancient Sami for a great view of Sami town & coast
• Quick photo stop of Monastery of Theotokou Agrilion for a view of Antisamos Beach.
• Swim at beautiful Antisamos Beach.
• A stop for a coffee or snack at Sami Harbour.
• Visit Melissani Cave.
• Optional visit to Old Vlachata
• Drive to Agia Effimia by the coastal road.
• Stroll at Agia Effimia harbour
• Optional Visit to Monastery Thetokou Thematon
• Photo stop at Panagia Lamia Church
• Back to Argostoli.
• Total drive time: 2.5h
• Enjoy the view of Myrtos Beach
• Swim at Myrtos Beach
• Visit Asos village and walk to the fort for amazing views
• Detour to a sightseeing point of Asos.
• Optional swim at Foki Beach
• Visit cosmopolitan Fiskardo for an evening stroll
• Take the route through Erisou villages and Neochori for great views towards Ithaki
• Back to Argostoli
• Total drive time: 3.15h (130km)
• Visit Mycenaean Tholos Tomb of Poros
• Optional visit to Moni Iperagias Theotokou Atrou (only by 4×4) for a great view of the coast and Poros.
• Visit Poros harbour.
• Swim at Skala Beach.
• Optional swim at Kaminia Beach.
• Visit Kato Katelios for a snack at the tavernas.
• Visit Castle of Agios Georgios
• Sacred Monastery of Agios Gerasimos
• Wine tasting at Robola Winery
• Drive to Ainos National Park for a hike or just to enjoy the views
• Take the alternative route through Agia Eirini
• Visit the Church of Our Lady Fidousa
• Swim at Lourdata Beach
• Total drive time: 3h (100km)
• Photo stop at Atheras Beach
• Swim at Petani Beach
• Photo stop of Platia Ammos Beach
• Take the route through Moni Kipoureon
• Photo stop at Kounopetra Harbour to enjoy the views of the coastline
• Swim at the magnificent red sand beach of Xi.
• Photo stop at Lepeda Beach
• Visit Lixouri town for a meal
• Take the ferry back to Argostoli
• Total drive time: 2.5h (95km)
• Turtle watching at Argostoli Harbour
• Stroll at De Bosset Bridge
• Photo stop at Agia Kyriaki Beach
• Water taxi to Fteri (20 euros)
• Stop at Sinkholes of Argostoli
• Photo stop at Saint Theodore Lighthouse
• Swim at Makris Gialos or Platis Gialos
• Photo stop at Avithos Beach
• Have a stroll at Kourkoumelata village
• Take the scenic route through Lakithra back to Argostoli
• Total drive time: 2h
• Take a day trip to Ithaki

You can find the routes for the above itinerary on the flowing clickable map.

KEFALONIA PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs from the island of Kefalonia here .

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations on the island where you enjoy great views .

• Viewpoint of Myrtos Beach
• Myrtos Beach Viewpoint
• Venetian Castle of Asos
• Asos Harbour Viewpoint
• Mount Ainos Viewpoint
• Petani Beach Viewpoint
• Akropolis of Ancient Sami
• Antisamos Beach Viewpoint
• Panoramic Point to Asos
• Platia Ammos Viewpoint
• Agia Efimia Viewpoint
• Atheras Beach Viewpoint
• Argostoli Viewpoint
• Asos Viewpoint
• De Bosset Bridge
• Castle of Agios Georgios
• Valsamata Viewpoint
• Argostoli Bay Viewpoint
• Filoscultura di Spiros Chourmouzis
• Panagia Lamia
• Moni Theotokou Agrilion
• Poros Coast Viewpoint
• Observation Deck Fiskardo
• Good View Park
• Poros Beach Viewpoint
• View of the south coast
• Road with views of Argostoli

You can check these viewpoints locations and the best photo spots on the island in the following map .

KEFALONIA ACTIVITIES

There are a few centres for watersports and other activities on the island of Kefalonia for the more adventurous.

There is a water sports centre at Makris Gialos beach where you can try jet-ski, water-ski or wake-board. You can also rent a boat, kayak or pedal boat.

There is another water sports centre at Antisamos Beach that offers various water sports activities.

There are 4 dive centres on the island that offer diving and snorkelling trips:

• Pirate Divers Club in Lassi
• Blue Manta Diving & Aquanautic Club in Skala
• Aquatic Dive Club in Agia Effimia
• Fiskardo Divers in Fiskardo

KEFALONIA EXCURSIONS & TOURS

Day trip to ithaki island.

Ithaki is a small island to the east of Kefalonia with stunning scenery, a picture-postcard town of Vathy and some great beaches. There are full-day daily excursions from Sami or Agia Effimia in high season.

Some of the available tours are summarised below:

• Discover Ithaka (Ithaca) Cruise & Tour : This tour starts from Sami with visits to Vathy, Gidaki Beach, Kioni, Frikes and Stavros. (10hr, €76)
• Ithaca Cruise to Gidaki Beach, Vathy & Kioni Village : Tour starts from Agia Efimia with visits to Gidaki, Vathy, Kioni and Ammoudi Beach (6h, €67)
• Day Trip to Ithaki Island with a Swim Stop: This tour starts from Poros with stops at Vathy, Gidaki and Kioni (€55)

You can also visit the island independently if you have a car. You can take the ferry from Sami and spend a whole day there or longer exploring this beautiful island. The ferry ride takes about 30min.

Kefalonia Sightseeing Tour

If you don’t have your own transport the following tours are a good option to see more of the island:

• Kefalonia Island Bus Tour : This tour starts from Argostoli and includes wine tasting at Robola winery, a visit to Drogorati and Melissani Caves, lunch at Fiscado Harbour and a photo stop at Myrtos Beach (7hr, €45 euros)
• Full-Day Private Tour in Kefalonia : This is a private tour and can be tailored to suit your needs starting in Argostoli and includes a visit to the Lighthouse and sinkholes, Drogorati and Melissani Caves, Antisamos, Myrtos beach, Asos, Agia Efimia & Fiscardo harbour (7,5h, €98 euros)
• Kefalonia North Road Trip : Be picked up in Argostoli, Agia Effimia, or Sami and drive along the scenic roads to go swimming at Myrtos Beach. Have traditional lunch in the village of Fiskardo by the sea and finish your trip in Asos (9h, €50)
• Highlights of Kefalonia : This tour starts from Argostoli and includes a photo stop at Myrtos beach, Agia Efimia, Melissani and Drogarati Caves, Robola Winery and Agios Gerasimos Monastery (5.5h, €60 euros)

Trip to Zakynthos or Lefkada

Difficult to do as a day trip, but it’s worth visiting the other two islands for a longer stay . This will need to be planned carefully according to the ferry connections as there are no daily ferries.

More information about excursions & tours in Kefalonia can be found here .

VIRTUAL TOUR

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Kefalonia 🙂

THINGS TO BUY IN KEFALONIA

The best destination for souvenir shopping is Argostoli with shops selling the usual greek souvenirs , as well as jewellery and typical local crafts and traditional products from the island. Most of the shops are located on the pedestrian street (Lithostroto) parallel to the promenade.

A unique souvenir to buy is the local Robola Wine .

FURTHER READING

You can check the following posts :

• Kefalonia Beaches
• Best things to do in Kefalonia

Other useful  websites  for more information about Kefalonia :

• visitkefaloniaisland.gr : A good website for Kefalonia with a lot of information about the island.
• Mysterious Greece : A good website with detailed information about Greece, including Kefalonia

Some good  travel guides  to buy before your visit to Kefalonia:

• Lonely Planet Greek Islands (Travel Guide) : This comprehensive guide also includes information about Kefalonia. Only worth it if you are planning to visit other islands in Greece.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Google Flights is another very good search engine.
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. Airbnb is a great alternative for homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners. HotelsCombined is one of the best search engines to check deals from different websites.
• Ferries : Ferryhopper is one of the best websites to check ferry schedules and buy the cheapest ferry tickets while in Greece.
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options. Discover Cars is also a good and easy-to-use website with great prices.
• Public Transport : You can use this website to check bus timetables on the island.
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. GetYourGuide is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.
• Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, and at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping this site running and ad-free.

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Best things to do in Kefalonia: from literary romance to wild scenery

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written by Mike MacEacheran

updated 13.03.2023

From sublime fishing villages to the epic romance of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin — set on the ravishing Ionian island and published 25 years ago this summer — Kefalonia is so perfect it almost feels imaginary. It’s the old-fashioned Greek island you’ve searched so long to find, with pinch-yourself beaches, mint-blue seas and pastel-painted villages. Here are just a few of the top things to do in Kefalonia.

1. Immerse in literary romance

• 2. Wind down on Kefalonia's beaches
• 3. Don't miss Assos Village

4. Admire the Venetian architecture of Fiscardo

5. discover the only national park of kefalonia, 6. get impressed by underground drogorati cave, 7. visit melissani cave & melissani lake, 8. watch sea turtles & other wildlife animals, 9. enjoy authentic greek cuisine, 10. explore the ancient town of sami, 11. book a boat tour around the island, 12. try sea kayaking or other water sports, 13. relaxing at fteri beach - one of the best things to do in kefalonia for tranquil holiday, 14. see de bosset bridge and obelisk, 15. taste robola wine.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Greece , your essential guide for visiting Greece .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Greece, created by local experts

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When Louis de Bernières released the bestselling historical war romance Captain Corelli’s Mandolin in 1994, it caused a minor sensation. Fast forward a quarter of a century and its blue-and-white tablecloth cover, a Hollywood adaptation with Nicholas Cage, Penélope Cruz and Christian Bale, and a new touring stage musical have made it almost ubiquitous.

Not that you’d know Hollywood was ever here. There are few, if any, mentions of the film or book’s legacy on the island and there’s a sense locals have forgotten about it, too. Arguably this is because most visitors cluster near the airport around the sandy beachfront of Lassi and Skala, some 40km further away to the south.

De Bernières is not the only author to have been inspired by the landscape here. Romantic poet and Grecophile Lord Byron wrote poetry in the town of Leivathos during a visit in 1823. Look out for the marble inscription at Byron’s Rock reading: “If I am a poet, I owe it to the air of Greece.”

Before you set off on your trip to Greece, take a look at our list of tips for travelling in Greece .

Relaxing on the gorgeous beaches - one of the best things to do in Kefalonia © Adisa/Shutterstock

2. Wind down on Kefalonia's beaches

If you prefer to fly-then-flop, marquee beaches like Myrtos and Agia Jerusalem still need to be reached by tackling Top Gear-style roads that twist down steep cliffs. Platia Ammos, northwest of the island capital Argostoli, requires a boat shuttle to reach it, as do Xilomata and Kutsupia. These beaches can push you out of your comfort zone, but the best way to get to know Kefalonia is to explore it properly.

The northern and western mountainous part of the Kefalonia is known as Anogí. Some 10km (6 miles) up the coast – longer by the winding roads – is undoubtedly the finest beach on the peninsula, Petaní, a beautiful stretch of pebbles backed by steep cliffs.

The road along the east coast plunges down a very steep (10 per cent) hill, passing by Xýngi and around a headland with numerous sea caves, to the beach at Makris Gialós. Here, there is a camping ground, several places to eat and sea caves you can swim into right by the beach.

Explore the beauty of Greek beaches with our guide to the best beaches in Greece .

Road to Myrtos Bay and Beach on Kefalonia Island, Greece © Igor Tichonow/Shutterstock

3. Don't miss Assos Village

Scenically varied, richly hospitable and without a chain restaurant or shop in sight, northern Kefalonia could easily exist in another century. Goat invaders block the single-track roads. Meanwhile, fishing boats pull up in front of restaurant kitchens in dazzling harbours, and it’s many stretches of golden sand have not a sun lounger in sight.

The Assos village retains much of its traditional architecture (reconstructed with the help of the City of Paris, commemorated by a plaque in Platía Parísion), and in spring and early summer is covered in flowers. The small Assos beach in the harbour is fairly clean but just around the coast are some beautiful coves, only accessible by boat.

Assos in Kefalonia, Greece © Shutterstock

Starting with strong Greek coffee in the company of cats overlooking Assos Beach is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia. After stopping off at Picnic Cafe and the delis in Magganos for a hamper lunch, continue to Foki Fiskardo for a dip and swim into its easy-to-reach electric blue sea cave. In peak summer, yachts on their way to and from neighbouring Ithaca anchor here, giving it a mini riviera vibe.

Fiscardo village itself survived the 1953 earthquake intact, and has cashed in on this with a vengeance. The admittedly very attractive harbourfront is backed by pastel-shaded housing, now largely expensive restaurants, cafés and boutiques. The harbour, for better or worse, is also greatly beloved by yachters.

Should it be too busy, consider Emplisi Beach to the north: with zero facilities, and stone slabs for lounging, it rises to the occasion and deserves some of your holiday time, too. For barefoot sunset drinks and meze afterwards, return south to delightfully hidden Acqua Alaties Beach, above the itsy-bitsy beach of the same name.

Fiscardo village on the Ionian island of Kefalonia, Greece © Yevhenii Chulovskyi/Shutterstock

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As tempting as it is to spend every day on one of Kefalonia’s 50-odd beaches, the Ionian island is also home to Mount Ainos National Park. It is the only protected reserve on a Greek Island, as well as Drogarati Cave, a Batman’s lair home to dragon’s teeth stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean creatures.

Begin with a day hike up Mount Ainos (1,628 metres) through black pine and fir forest on the lookout for semi-wild ponies. The route is officially signposted from a quarry on the east coast road from Sami to Poros and carries on up to pixel-perfect views of neighbouring Ithaca and the mainland’s Peloponnese peninsula.

Kefalonia island from the mountain top Mount Ainos © Shutterstock

Back on the road, go north to Drogarati Cave near Sámi to spelunk in a cavern that reaches 60m below sea level and swells with bats and bug-eyed insects. Historically, it’s the first place local families would go to cool down in the summer heat.

The cave was discovered about 300 years ago after an earthquake opened up the present entrance. A steep series of steps lead down into a cool fissure, at the bottom of which is a concrete viewing platform overlooking the huge chamber.

Occasionally used to hold concerts, it has an impressive array of stalactites. Some of these are damaged, broken off by unthinking souvenir hunters, but there is still a huge amount of flowstone left.

From the platform, you can make your way down onto the floor of the chamber, where you can explore the nooks and crannies.

Drogarati Cave in Kefalonia, Greece © Karel Sohaj/Shutterstock

Perhaps one of the best things to do in Kefalonia is to visit to the cave lake at Melissáni west of Sámi. A short artificial tunnel brings you to the edge of a large underground lake, partly open to the sky due to the collapse of the cavern’s roof. The sunlight on the deep, clear water turns it an iridescent blue. Visitors are rowed around the lake by boatmen.

The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

The cave was formed between 20,000 and 16,000 years ago, during the last ice age. The roof of the cavern collapsed some 5,000 years ago, the debris from which still lies in the centre of the lake. Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of its geology is that it is the point of resurgence for the water that sinks at the katavóthres near Argostóli, hence the water in the cave is brackish.

Melissani Cave, Kefalonia Island, Greece © Shutterstock

Giant loggerheads and green turtles. Monk seals. Basking sharks. Common dolphins. Ferrets, pine martins and some 10,000 goats. It’s hard not to pay attention to the fauna and marine life that live around Kefalonia. In particular, your eyes will grow wide around 11 am in Agrostoli harbour when the fishing boat captains return with their morning haul.

Over the years, freshly filleted scraps have been thrown overboard, resulting in scores of endangered loggerhead turtles arriving for a feast. It’s a unique phenomenon in the Mediterranean and has led to various research and conservation projects popping up to study and protect the species. If you want to help out, highly recommended volunteering opportunities are available with island-based charity Wildlife Sense .

A turtle swims in the ocean off Kefalonia © crazychris84/Shutterstock

Greek cuisine is nothing new. We’re sure you know tzatziki, taramasalata, gyros, souvlaki, saganaki, dolmades and moussaka. But spend time in a Kefalonian taverna (medium-sized, affordable) or estiatório (modest, crammed with character) from Agrostoli to Lixouri, the main town on the Paliki peninsula, and you’ll notice all sorts of differing statements.

Blame the geography, but this part of Greece has long been influenced by Italy, in particular during the Venetian occupation of the Ionian islands, from the mid-14th century until the late 18th century. That's 400 years of Italian cooking. And, of course, the Italians brought the kinds of dishes you’d more likely find in an enoteca with them.

Sofrito, slow-cooked veal drowned in wine, braised beef and earthy pastitsada, a thick, tomatoey meat stew, are stand-outs. A couple of places to try are family-run Tassia in Fiskardo and Palia Plaka in Agrostoli.

Don't leave without trying the Greek take on pasta — bucatini is a favourite — and a seafood platter toppling over with layers of grilled octopus, squid, swordfish and shellfish. Invest in a decent bottle of white wine, made with indigenous Robola grapes (and also introduced by the Venetians), for the perfect pairing. For a tour and tasting, drop in to Orealios Gaea , previously known as the Robola Cooperative of Kefalonia.

Pastitsada of beef with bucatini pasta © Shutterstock

Most boats to the island dock at the large and functional port town of Sami, near the south end of the Itháki straits, more or less on the site of ancient Sami. This was the capital of the island in Homeric times, when Kefaloniá was part of Ithaca’s maritime kingdom. Ironically, today the administrative hierarchy is reversed, with Itháki being considered the backwater.

In more recent times, Sámi was used as the set for much of the filming of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. The long sandy beach that stretches around the bay to the village of Karavómylos is perfectly adequate, but 2km further east, beyond ancient Sami, lies a more dramatic pebble beach, Andísamis, set in a stunning curved bay.

One of the main attractions in the Sami area is the Sami Acropolis. A number of scenic paths lead up to the Acropolis and tie in with the plethora of Roman ruins in the surrounding area.

Sami bay, Kefalonia, Greece © Shutterstock

Hiring a small motorboat is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia to explore secluded and otherwise inaccessible bays. They are available from travel agents in many places and cost €50–100 per day plus petrol. They are great for swimming from – simply anchor, then dive or jump off the side; all boats have a fold-down ladder to help you get back on board.

The relatively calm and safe waters around Kefaloniá, coupled with the wonderful marine environment, have made this area very popular with yacht owners and companies running bareboat charter and flotilla holidays. The most popular harbour is Fiskárdo on the north of the island. However, this can get very busy, especially with novice crews being instructed through loudhailers by their group leader on the quayside.

If you are after a little more peace and quiet then you would be better advised to head down the coast to Agía Efimía or along the spectacular west coast to the pretty horseshoe harbour of Ássos.

Exploring the coast by boat is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia © Shutterstock

Visiting the coasts around Zákynthos and Kefaloniá is among the best things to do in Kefalonia for divers – the rocky shoreline is home to a wide variety of creatures, and the calm, clear water gives visibility up to 50m (165ft). All scuba-diving schools have qualified instructors who will choose dive locations according to your experience.

Extended boat trips are available for advanced divers. For the more advanced trips, or to hire equipment and go by yourself, you will need to show a diving certificate. Boards and sails for windsurfing are available for hire at certain beaches and instruction is offered at many places. Parasailing, which is now very popular, is available at a number of beaches as is jet-skiing.

To discover even more places to visit and beauties to see in Greece - read our guide to the best things to do in Greece .

Antisamos bay, Kefalonia island, Greece © Shutterstock

The remote Fteri beach has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its unspoilt natural beauty and the tranquillity it offers. Vacationing on this beach is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia for those looking for a calm and serene environment to relax in.

There are no traditional beach facilities such as sun loungers, parasols or beach bars on Fteri beach. If you are going here, don't forget to take all the necessary supplies, including food, as there are no shops or restaurants in the area.

Spend this tailor-made trip to classical Greece exploring Athens and the ancient sites surrounding the capital on mainland Greece. Blessed with glorious weather, nature and beaches, see sites that rival anything which you may find on the Greek Islands.

Fteri beach in Kefalonia Island, Greece © Shutterstock

The island’s capital, and also its largest town, Argostóli was completely destroyed in the 1953 earthquake and has been rebuilt largely with modern concrete buildings. Although it is essentially a port and administrative centre, the town is not entirely devoid of charm. It has a great position surrounded by mountains, as well as a number of interesting museums, and it makes a good base for exploring the rest of the island.

The city is also home to two notable historical landmarks: De Bosset Bridge and Obelisk. The De Bosse Bridge was built in 1813 by the Swiss engineer Charles Philippe de Bosse, who served as governor of Kefalonia. It is a stone bridge that crosses the Koutavos lagoon and links the town of Argostoli to the opposite shore. It is one of the longest stone bridges in Europe. It offers spectacular views of the lagoon and the Argostoli.

The obelisk is a tall monument located at the De Bosse Bridge entrance. It was constructed in 1813 to honour the completion of the bridge and in honour of Sir Charles Napier, the British commissioner who was instrumental in the construction of the bridge.

Obelisk and the de Bosset bridge on lakeside in Argostoli, Kefalonia, Greece © Shutterstock

The turn-off towards Valsamáta will take you to the Cephalonian Robola Producers Cooperative. The Robola grape is cultivated on the high altitude limestone soils found in the region and is used to produce a fine white wine. The cooperative makes two Robola wines, both of which can be tasted in the visitors’ centre.

Close to the winery, just beyond Valsamáta, is Moní Agíou Gerasímou. Ágios Gerasímos is the patron saint of Kefaloniá, and the convent, founded in the 16th century, is the most important pilgrimage site on the island. The (male) saint founded a female order in 1554 and was beatified in 1622.

Grapes of Robola wine in a vineyard on the greek island of Kefalonia © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For Melissani and Drogarati caves location: Poseidon Apartments
• For families: Meliti Waterfront Suites
• For price and quality: Minas Apartments
• For stunning views: Faro Del Porto

Find more accommodation options to stay in Kefalonia

Ready for a trip to Kefalonia? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to the Greek Islands or The Rough Guide to Greece .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Kefalonia without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Assos village in island of Kefalonia, Greece © Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

Mike MacEacheran is a travel journalist & guidebook author based in Edinburgh, Scotland. He has reported from 108 countries for National Geographic, Conde Nast Traveller, The Times, The Telegraph, The Guardian, The Observer, The Sunday Times, The Wall Street Journal, Mail on Sunday, The Independent, Evening Standard, The Sun, The Globe and Mail, Scotland on Sunday, The National and South China Morning Post. Follow him on Twitter @MikeMacEacheran

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10 Best Things To Do In Kefalonia (Paradise In The Ionian Sea)

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Home » 10 Best Things To Do In Kefalonia (Paradise In The Ionian Sea)

Kefalonia is an island paradise with a rustic landscape and picturesque soft sand beaches that spread as far as the eye can see.

As the largest Greek island in the Ionian Sea, you can imagine there is plenty for you to see and do during your time on the marvelous island.

Although large, the island is relatively quiet, and you can enjoy your holiday without being bothered by hordes of tourists.

We found some must-see hidden gems throughout our time here, from the beautiful town of Assos to the magical Drogarati Caves.

These 10 things to do in Kefalonia are perfect if you want to spend a relaxing time on one of the best islands in Greece.

So keep reading to discover the best Kefalonia activities and why the island made it onto our list of the best places to visit on a charter yacht in Greece.

Fancy other destinations in Greece? Here is a list of the best destinations in Greece .

10 Best Things To Do: Kefalonia, Greece

Throughout our Europe travel blog , we couldn’t help but mention our amazing time in Greece. A significant reason for our love of Greece was thanks to the breathtaking island of Kefalonia.

While we share our favorite things to do here in this blog post, we also have a helpful video on YouTube for those looking for a 3-day Kefalonia itinerary – click here to watch the Kefalonia video here .

So here are the ten best Kefalonia things to do, with all the essential information, from where they are on the island to what you can expect at each place.

1. Petani Beach

Petani beach is one of the best places to visit for a relaxed day on the coast, and it’s only 21 miles from the island capital of Argostoli.

Rising hills of lush greenery perfectly frame the blue Ionian Sea, creating one of the best sunset spots on the whole island.

The white sand beach stretches for half a mile, and there are sun loungers and umbrellas you can rent to take a break from the Ionian sun.

Petani beach can get busy during the tourist season, so it’s best to start your day early (arrive before 10 am) if you want to grab some sun loungers.

The waves here get big, so be cautious of the tides, especially if the kids are in the water.

One of the best places to eat at Petani beach is Erasmias, the restaurant has fantastic meals at an affordable price and is right at the center of the beachfront.

2. Fiskardo

Fiskardo is a delightful little coastal village on the Greek island of Kefalonia. This northern harbor village has a very similar vibe to Assos, with Venetian-style architecture and breathtaking walking streets.

There is plenty to see and do in Fiskardo, from enjoying a stroll along the bay to exploring the many archeological sites along hikes like the Lighthouse Trail.

There are also a couple of excellent beaches you can relax at during the day. We think Foki beach’s the best of the bunch. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it great for families.

You can also ride on a traditional kaiki boat and get some unique views of this picturesque village from the ocean. There’s a lot to explore in Fiskardo, including trying all the fantastic food spots in the town.

Odysseas’ Taverna is the best place to eat, with great views, affordable meals, and wholesome Greek cuisine that has you coming back for more. Just make sure to arrive before 1 pm as that is when most of the tour groups will arrive (and they fill up the restaurants quickly).

For a peaceful day of wandering through small stone-paved streets and soft pastel-colored buildings, look no further than the coastal village of Assos, one of the best places in Kefalonia.

This quaint village is one of the most photogenic places in all of Greece, and with safe streets and friendly locals, you can imagine why it made it onto this list.

When we say it’s small, we mean it, with a population of around 100 people.

Assos isn’t just home to pretty buildings and friendly people. The stand-out landmark to explore is the ruins of the Castle of Assos. We recommend going to Nefeli-Anait for beautiful views of the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and some of the best Kefalonian seafood.

4. Melissani Lake

Melissani Lake is one of the many hidden gems in Greece that will leave you in awe of this spectacular country. From the surface, all you will see are thick bushes and trees, but as you get closer, the cave begins to reveal itself, and so too, do the crystal clear waters of the lake below.

The lake is easily accessible with a short 1.2-mile drive from Sami village, and you’ll join a unique boat ride in the cave. As the sunlight filters into the two halls of Melissani cave, the water and stalagmites light up to reveal the beauty of this otherworldly landmark.

Unfortunately, you cannot swim in the waters, but joining a boat ride and seeing the cave’s towering walls encircle you is an unforgettable experience. Boat tours last between 15 and 30 minutes and cost around $7.11 USD per person, but trust us; it’s well worth the experience.

• The best time to visit this lake is around 11 am – 12 pm, but be aware that everyone wants to visit during those hours to see the light come through the open roof, so it will be busy.
• Make sure to bring a hat while you wait in the queue and bring something warm as it can get a bit chilly in the cave.
• Pair the visit to the lake with a visit to the caves mentioned below, which is located close by. You can also save money by buying a combination ticket.

Top Tip: Click here to book your tour of Kefalonia where you can see Melissani lake and much more.

5. Drogarati Caves

Possibly one of the best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece, is to pay a visit to the mesmerizing Drogarati Caves. The caves are only 2 miles from Sami village, and fairly close to Melissani Lake, so you can go to both of these terrific sites in one day.

Drogarati Cave is a beautiful maze of hallways full of stalagmites and stalactites , creating a world of wonders. One of the unique phenomena of this cave is its constant temperature of 64,4°F, which you’ll feel during your time there.

Entrance to the caves costs $5 per adult and $3 per child, but we would suggest joining a Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake tour . You’ll have a fantastic time on the tour and learn some interesting facts about both places along the way.

6. Myrtos Beach

You are bound to have one of your best days on Kefalonia island, Greece, at Myrtos beach, with two mountains framing white sand to create a dramatic landscape.

Myrtos Beach is one of the best beaches in Kefalonia . At Myrtos, you will see some of the most brilliantly blue waters in the world.

During the summer months, you will find sun loungers with umbrellas available to rent – arrive before 10 am if you wish to secure a set of those. A little cafe on the beach also sells some snacks and drinks. The beach has white pebbles closer to the water, so you should bring some comfy water shoes for walking.

As the beach is on the west coast of Kefalonia, you can experience some of the best sunsets on the island. The waters are pretty calm, and the sea deepens gradually, so it’s great for families.

Top Tip: Although the waters are the main feature of this beach, you can also go to the Myrtos Cave at the south end of the beach for some fantastic photo opportunities.

7. Xi Beach

Step away from Greece’s classic white sand beaches and onto the terracotta-colored sand of Xi Beach. Unlike some of the hidden beaches on this list, Xi beach is trendy and built-up, with straw umbrellas and watersports available.

The sand is incredibly soft, and the water gradually deepens, so Avalee could have fun in the sea without us having to worry too much.

In the water, you will find some areas that feel a bit slimy under your feet; this is where the clay is located. You will see some people rubbing this clay on their bodies and faces. It is said that the clay has cleaning and detoxing properties. It was pretty fun to try out.

There are a couple of really nice restaurants close to the beach, but Antonello’s is the best of the bunch as they make fantastic Greek souvlaki.

8. Antisamos Beach

Antisamos is another lovely beach that is a short 12-minute drive from Sami village. The beach has the perfect combination of lush flowing hills and inviting turquoise waters that everyone can enjoy.

The beach has plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas that you can rent. If you want an exhilarating experience, then visit the extreme watersports facility that offers jet skiing and surfing.

Enjoy a fantastic walk along the Antisamos beach, which gives you unparalleled views of the Ionian Sea.

Make sure to bring your water shoes as the beach has large pebbles which is pretty uncomfortable to walk on.

9. Ithaca Day Trip

Of all the Greek islands, Kefalonia is probably the best place to set off on a wonderful day trip to Ithaca. This rustic island is full of historical wonder, with plenty of ruins for you to explore and an unlimited number of breathtaking beaches.

We suggest joining a day cruise to Ithaca island, as it’s a quick way to get to the island, and most cruises include a delicious lunch. You can enjoy a fun-filled day on Polis beach and explore the historical site of Kathara Monastery. Although there is not a huge amount to see on the island, it’s definitely a lovely day trip.

Top Tip: Click here to book your tour of Ithaca island on an all-inclusive day cruise.

10. Zakynthos Day Trip

Zakynthos is another stunning island in the Ionian Sea and is well known for its beautiful white beaches and is a haven for sea turtles. You can enjoy an unforgettable Zakynthos boat trip from Kefalonia, which includes stopping by the world-famous swim spot of Navagio shipwreck beach.

During your day trip, take a walk through the stunning Alykanas village, and admire the magnificent blue caves that make this island so popular. While on Zakynthos, take a short hike up to Top View for an unreal perspective of the island.

Top Tip: Click here to book your tour of Zakynthos on a memorable boat trip or check out our blog on the best boat tours in Zakynthos .

What To Do In Kefalonia FAQs

From how many days to spend in Kefalonia to if it’s worth visiting, here are all the facts about this glorious island.

1. Is Kefalonia Worth Visiting?

The short answer is yes, Kefalonia is hands down one of the best places to visit of the Greek islands in the Ionian Sea. It is one of the largest, so there is an abundance of beauty and activities to enjoy.

It is also quieter than islands such as Mykonos and Zakynthos, so it’s the perfect family getaway in Greece. We spent 5 weeks traveling around Greece; Kefalonia had the most stunning beaches.

2. How Many Days Are Enough In Kefalonia?

We had 3 days to explore Kefalonia, and in truth, it was too rushed. We would recommend spending at least 5 to 7 days exploring the island, as it is the largest of the Ionian islands, and it is better to have the time to enjoy each region.

3. Do I Need A Car In Kefalonia?

Most of the island is accessible via public transportation, but we would still recommend getting a rental car. With a car, you won’t waste as much time waiting for public transportation, and because Kefalonia is such a large island, you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible.

We had an unforgettable time in Kefalonia, and with such a wide variety of activities to enjoy, you will too. From the picturesque town of Fiskardo to the magical Melissani Lake, it’s safe to say Kefalonia is a must-visit when in Greece.

Several islands in the Ionian Sea are notorious for their lively nightlife and audacious parties, and this is why Kefalonia is such a nice change of pace. With calming beaches and a laid-back way of life, you can enjoy a relaxing family holiday on one of the best Mediterranean islands in the world.

Find more helpful blog posts about Greece on our Greece travel blog here.

Check out this list if you are looking for more on the best beach locations in Europe !

Additional Information for Greece Vacation

Check out what else we have about Greece here:

• Visiting Crete in Greece with Kids
• Find out all you need to know about Meteora Monasteries
• What to do in Mykonos in September
• What to do in Santorini in Mykonos
• Greece’s Hidden Gems
• 3 Days to do in Zakynthos Greece
• Need to know for vacation in Parga
• Best things to see in Corfu

Jolene Ejmont

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Kefalonia travel guide: the complete 2024 guide to kefalonia, greece.

April 7, 2023

Welcome to my Kefalonia travel guide – the ultimate travel guide to Kefalonia, and the only guide you’ll ever need to plan your dream vacation to this beautiful Greek island!

I stumbled across Kefalonia when looking for summer holidays in 2022. Since I had never heard of it, I didn’t have too many expectations, but boy, does this island have a lot to offer!

Kefalonia, also known as Cephalonia or Kefallinia, is the largest of the Ionian islands in western Greece . The island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages.

With so many attractions and activities to enjoy, suffice it to say that planning a trip to Kefalonia can be a little overwhelming.

But fear not – because in this comprehensive travel guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your time on this stunning island.

Read more: The ultimate Europe backpacking packing list for summer

Kefalonia travel guide: table of contents, where is kefalonia.

• Top 3 reasons to visit Kefalonia

Kefalonia climate

Best time to visit kefalonia, kefalonia out of season.

• Recommended timeframe
• Kefalonia tourist map
• Best Viator tour in Kefalonia
• The best beaches in Kefalonia
• Public transportation
• Where to eat and drink in Kefalonia
• Best hotels
• Best resorts
• Best hostels
• Top Kefalonia travel tips
• Planning your trip to Kefalonia
• Pinterest gallery

Kefalonia Travel Guide: About Kefalonia

If you’ve never heard of Kefalonia island before, you’re probably like I was and are wondering:

Where in the heck is this island, anyway?

Kefalonia is a beautiful island located in the Ionian Sea, just 30 miles west of mainland Greece.

The island is known for its rugged landscapes, stunning beaches, and brilliant, clear, turquoise water.

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands, with a total area of about 300 square miles (781 square kilometers) and a population of around 35,000 people.

The island is divided into four main regions: Argostoli, Paliki, Sami, and Erisos.

(More on that below on my Kefalonia tourist map .)

Did you know? Kefalonia is just 6 miles west of the tiny island of Ithaca. Kefalonia island has even been suggested to be the original Ithaca, the homeland of Odysseus!

Is Kefalonia nice?

I would be remiss if I didn’t make it clear in this Kefalonia guide just how nice this Greek island really is.

So yes, Kefalonia is nice – and likely exceptionally more than you would expect.

Why do I love Kefalonia so much? Here’s are my top three reasons:

• Stunning beaches: In my opinion, Kefalonia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. This includes the famous Myrtos Beach, Antisamos Beach and many more. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and a wide range of water activites such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving! I mean seriously , have you ever seen water so blue?!
• Unspoiled nature: Kefalonia is a nature lover’s paradise that hasn’t been fully discovered by the masses yet. It has a diverse landscape including mountains, forests, and lakes. You can explore the island’s natural wonders by hiking in Mount Ainos National Park, taking a boat through Melissani Cave, or visiting the picturesque village of Assos.
• Budget traveler friendly: While there are some luxury options, it’s otherwise pretty difficult to spend a lot on Kefalonia island. Perfect for travelers on a budget!

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate summer Europe vacation filled with sun and the sea at an affordable price, then a Kefalonia holiday is for you!

Kefalonia Travel Guide: When to Visit Kefalonia

When planning a trip to Kefalonia, there are a few key things to bear in mind about the climate first. That’s why I’ve included a little bit of information on this Kefalonia travel guide about the climate, the best time to visit, and what it’s like in the off-season, below.

Kefalonia is overall dry, sunny, and hot in the summer. Conversely, the winters are mild, but see a lot of rain.

Since Kefalonia is also home to the highest peak in the Ionian Sea, Mount Ainos, sometimes there’s even snow in the winter on the peak!

Daily average temperatures during peak summer in Kefalonia range from highs of 84°F (29°C) during the day to lows of 64°F (18°C) at night. If you’re visiting during shoulder season, lows are likely to reach closer to 54°F (12°C). So if you visit during shoulder season, be prepared with a light jacket and sweater!

For more detailed information during the particular month you’re visiting, I like this website.

Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!

thefearlesswanderess

🇺🇸 Neuro in Oxford 🇬🇧 for my PhD ✈️ Mindfulness | Solo female travel | Expat life 🌍 40+ countries traveled | 7 lived 👇 Germany eSIM guide

The best time to visit Kefalonia is from May to mid-September. This, unsurprisingly, is also peak season in Kefalonia.

So, to get the best balance between great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, I always recommend visiting during shoulder season during the European summer.

This means May and September will be the best months to visit Kefalonia overall!

However, I visited in July and while the beaches could get busy in the middle of the day, I was still able to enjoy the fact that Kefalonia is still a hidden gem.

So rest assured if you visit in peak season, you’ll probably still be able to avoid massive crowds. But maybe not for long – more people are bound to discover this magical Greek island every year! 😉

Outside of May-September (and maybe October), many hotels and restaurants on the island of Kefalonia will be shut down.

This is especially true of resort towns like Lassi, Skala, and Sami. Lixouri and Fiskardo are still open to some extent.

Remember, Kefalonia is still relatively undiscovered by foreigners, so outside of the high season, a lot of facilities that cater to tourists will be closed! 🙂

Be strategic and visit in May or September to experience the best of Kefalonia “off-season.” There will be lower prices and no crowds while still being relatively sunny and warm. However, you’ll also avoid everything being shut down.

Read more: How to visit Santorini on a budget

Kefalonia travel guide: how to get to kefalonia.

Flying to Kefalonia is by far the easiest way to get to Kefalonia. However, you can of course always take a ferry, too. It is Greece, after all!

The island of Kefalonia, Greece has its own airport, “Anna Pollatou” (abbreviated with IATA airport code EFL).

Many flights go in and out daily on large carriers and budget airlines alike. This is great news for budget travelers – you can probably get a flight out of your airport of choice with easyJet, Jet2, Vueling, or TUI!

If you’re flying from the United States, you’ll probably need to catch a connecting flight to Kefalonia. Luckily, there are direct flights to Kefalonia from most major airports around Europe, including London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, and Athens!

Kefalonia airport is modern and comfortable with air conditioning. I had to wait inside for a delayed flight back home and was generally comfortable. (Or, at least as comfortable as waiting for a delayed flight can really be. 🙂 )

Have I convinced you to book your flight to Kefalonia yet? 🙂 I’ve made it easy for you to start your search with Skyscanner below, my go-to flight search engine for the best deals!

Since Kefalonia is ideally located in the Ionian sea, you can also take a ferry to Kefalonia from either mainland Greece or other islands like Lefkada or Zakynthos.

From mainland Greece

You can take a ferry from Killini in mainland Peloponnese to Poros on Kefalonia island that operates 3-4 times daily. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

During high season, you can also take a daily ferry from Killini to Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry to the port town of Sami, Kefalonia from Patras in the northern Peloponnese. This ferry continues to the neighboring island of Ithaca.

Looking for an Athens to Kefalonia ferry? Unfortunately, there aren’t any currently. You’re better off flying if you’re looking to take this route!

From other islands

It’s also possible to get to Kefalonia by ferry from the neighboring islands of Ithaca, Zakynthos, and Lefkada.

If you’re wondering how to get from Corfu to Kefalonia, you’d have to take a ferry from Corfu to Lefkada first. Then, another ferry from Lefkada to Corfu.

PRO TIP: Book your ferry tickets ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about them selling out!

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Recommended Timeframe

How long do you need in Kefalonia?

Next up on this complete Kefalonia travel guide is a very important question: how long do you really need in Kefalonia?

The amount of time you need in Kefalonia largely depends on your travel style and interests.

If you want to explore the island thoroughly and take part in various activities, I recommend spending at least five to seven days on the island.

This will give you enough time to visit the top attractions, like Myrtos Beach, Melisanni Cave, and Mount Ainos National Park. It will also allow you to explore some of the lesser-known villages and beaches.

However, if you’re short on time, you can still get a taste of Kefalonia in as little as three to four days.

During this time, you can choose to visit some of the island’s highlights. This could include beautiful Antisamos Beach or the charming fishing village of Fiskardo.

But it’s worth noting that the amount of time you spend in Kefalonia also depends on your budget and schedule.

If you have a limited budget or a tight schedule, you may have to prioritize which places to visit and which activities to do. Luckily, my guide can help you with that! 🙂

But if you have more time and resources, you can take your time and fully experience all that Kefalonia has to offer at a more relaxed pace.

Personally, I spent five full days on Kefalonia and felt it was enough for a short little holiday – that is, if you arrive armed with the knowledge of the best things to do in Kefalonia!

Keep reading if you’re interested in that. 😉

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Kefalonia Tourist Map

Kefalonia Travel Guide: What to Do in Kefalonia

1. Myrtos Beach + viewpoinT

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Myrtos Beach is a stunning, crescent-shaped beach located on the northwest coast of Kefalonia.

It’s widely regarded not only as one of the best beaches in Greece, but also as one of the most picturesque beaches in the world – and for good reason.

Its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine white pebble beach make Myrtos a Kefalonia must-see on this Kefalonia travel guide.

In addition to its natural beauty, Myrtos Beach itself also offers a variety of activities that you can enjoy!

Sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling are popular activities here, and the surrounding cliffs provide an excellent backdrop for adventurous cliff jumping too!

Visitors can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas or grab a refreshing drink at the nearby beach bar.

While of course the beach is best enjoyed during the heat of the day, I recommend visiting the viewpoint just north of the beach in the hours leading to sunset for the best lighting.

You can find this viewpoint on Google maps by searching “Myrtos Beach Viewpoint.”

I promise you the view will not disappoint!

Read more: My top 10 tips for flying internationally after 8+ years of independent international travel

2. explore the melissani cave.

Melissani Cave is actually a partially-collapsed underground cave that’s also home to a beautiful underground lake.

Visitors can take a boat ride through this unique geological formation and marvel at the clear, bright blue water and the natural beauty of the surrounding rock formations.

The sun shines through the partially-collapsed roof and into the water, giving off an almost mystical feeling!

Your boat captain will even bring you a bit inside the cave for a look around at the stalactites and stalagmites. 

If you’re lucky, you’ll get a captain who sings for you too so that you can hear the amazing acoustics the rock formations offer! 🙂

How much does it cost to visit Melissani cave?

Entry to the cave is €7 (reduced for children), which you purchase at the entrance. This includes the boat ride. To get to the edge of the lake, you’ll go down a series of stairs and a walkway which descends about 20 meters into the cave. There, you’ll get in the next boat that’s available. And then away you go!

When is the best time to visit Melissani cave?

It’s best to visit Melissani cave between 11:30 am and 2 pm. This is when the sun shines through the cave opening and illuminates the water inside, giving it a magical, blue glow! To avoid the crowds at noon and 1 pm, arrive right at 11:30 am or closer to 2 pm.

Did you know? The water that feeds Melissani Lake comes from a freshwater stream that runs underground for approximately 12 ½ miles (20 kilometers)! It then mixes with seawater due to its proximity to the eastern coast of Kefalonia, creating a brackish mix that is unique only to Melissani Cave.

Short on time? I recommend booking a private tour with transportation that will bring you to Kefalonia’s highlights, including Melissani Cave! (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 18 reviews)

3. hike in mount ainos national park.

Mount Ainos is the highest peak not only on Kefalonia, but also of the Ionian islands. It offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea.

It’s located within Mount Ainos National Park, the only national park situated on a Greek island!

The hike to the top of Mount Ainos isn’t too challenging if you have the right shoes , and it’s worth it for the stunning views.

I recommend you drive as far as you can up to the parking lot with a big radio tower. This is labelled as “Ainos National Park Parking” on Google Maps.

From there, walk down the gravel road until you find a sign directing you up and to the right. That’s your summit hike to the peak of Mount Ainos!

You can also hike elsewhere around the national park to discover the wide variety of flora and fauna, like the iconic fir trees that cover the area.

Want to know more about hiking in Ainos National Park? Check out the trails guide on AllTrails.com.

4. Rent a boat for the day

One of the best things to do in Kefalonia is rent a boat.

Here’s why: since so many gorgeous beaches on Kefalonia aren’t accessible on land, a boat is the only way you’ll be able to see them and enjoy them!

(Plus, you’ll have these beaches almost completely to yourself!)

You might be wondering: do I need a boat license to drive a boat in Kefalonia?

In Kefalonia, you can get a boat rental of up to 30 horsepower without a boat license! This is plenty of power to explore the beaches around Argostoli bay, for example.

I rented a boat through Viator from Argostoli for the day and loved it. It was only $200 for the entire day, could hold up to 5 people, and was super easy to pick up and drop off the boat in the harbor.

I highly recommend it for anyone visiting Kefalonia, as it was a highlight of my trip and I think the best Viator tour in Kefalonia!

Just don’t forget to pack your own beach umbrella for the harsh midday sun if you plan to camp out at one of these wild beaches for the day!

5. Visit Assos Village

Assos (sometimes spelled ‘Asos’) is a picturesque village located on a narrow peninsula on the west coast of Kefalonia.

It’s home to a charming harbor, narrow streets, and traditional houses that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Assos is also another great place to rent a boat in Kefalonia so that you can access stunning, wild beaches between Assos and Myrtos Beach that aren’t accessible by land.

There are a few boat rental companies in the center of Assos on the harbor that you can go into and ask about these beaches. They’re well-kept secrets of the locals that I don’t want to give away here! 🙂

Read more: Check out more of the best things to do and where to eat and stay in Assos with my ultimate Asos, Kefalonia guide!

6. explore the venetian castle in assos.

Assos is also the starting point to explore Assos Castle, a well-preserved historic Venetian castle perched on a small peninsula connected to Assos village.

It was built under Venetian rule from 1593-1595 to protect against invading attacks from Turks or pirates, and is one of the largest castles in Greece!

You can take a tour, climb to the top, and have a panoramic view of the village and surrounding sea.

Read more: 7 safest places for women to travel alone in Europe

7. relax on antisamos beach.

Almost as famous as Myrtos Beach, Antisamos Beach is located on the eastern coast of Kefalonia and offers crystalline waters and stunning views.

It’s located just a short distance from the town of Sami and is easily accessible by car, bus, or on foot.

Antisamos Beach is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a variety of beach bars and restaurants so you have all you need for the day, right there.

There are also showers, changing rooms, and other amenities, making it a comfortable and convenient place to spend the day.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a short hike around the surrounding hilltops to enjoy stunning views of the area!

8. Visit Fiskardo Village

Fiskardo is a charming village with a lively atmosphere located on the northernmost tip of Kefalonia.

It’s known for its picturesque harbor, traditional houses, and stunning sea views.

If you want to enjoy some fine dining in Kefalonia, I recommend you visit Fiskardo. The scenic waterfront is lined with tavernas, cafes, and boutiques that are sure to satisfy your tastebuds with authentic Greek cuisine.

Fiskardo also serves as a jumping-off point for boat rentals in Kefalonia as well as sailing tours to explore the surrounding bays and coves.

Did you know? Fiskardo is one of the few places on Kefalonia that wasn’t destroyed by the 1953 earthquake. So, the town is filled with traditional Venetian architecture, stone-paved streets, and pastel-colored houses.

9. Take a Day Trip to Ithaca

If you’re looking for a day trip from Kefalonia, Ithaca is a great option.

This small island is located just off the northeast coast of Kefalonia and offers an unspoiled, laid-back atmosphere.

To get to Ithaca, you can take a ferry from the town of Sami, which is located on the east coast of Kefalonia. The ferry ride takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea along the way.

Once you arrive in Ithaca, you can explore the island’s charming villages, scenic beaches, and historic landmarks.

If you’d like to DIY your day trip, Steph from The Mediterranean Traveler has a great guide to taking a day trip from Kefalonia to Ithaca!

Alternatively, you can save time and headache by doing a guided tour to Ithaca so all of the logistics are taken care of for you.

One of the top things to do in Ithaca is to visit the village of Frikes, a quiet and peaceful village surrounded by hills topped with old windmills.

You can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca to learn more about the island’s rich history and culture, or soak up the sun and relax on some of the top beaches, like Gidaki Beach or Filiatro Beach.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect day trip on this Kefalonia travel guide, make sure to add Ithaca to your itinerary!

If you’d like the logistics taken care of for you, below are the top tours I recommend for a day trip to Ithaca from Kefalonia.

10. stroll around the koutavos lagoon in argostoli.

The Koutavos Lagoon is a beautiful natural lagoon located in the heart of Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the lagoon and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

It’s also a great jumping-off point for a day boat rental , topped off with some fine dining in the city for dinner!

While Kefalonia isn’t particularly known for its nightlife scene, you’ll also find a little bit of nightlife in Argostoli. Lithostroto, the town’s main square, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a variety of bars and cafes to choose from.

11. Enjoy a drink at a beach bar in Lassi

Lassi is a popular tourist resort town on the western coast of Kefalonia.

It’s known for its beautiful beaches and also its unique selection of beach bars.

These beach bars are scattered along the coastline and offer a great spot for you to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a refreshing drink.

One of the most popular beach bars in Lassi is the Gradakia Beach Bar, which is located on Gradakia Beach and offers amazing views of the coastline.

The bar serves a range of drinks, including local wines and cocktails, and has a selection of light bites and snacks on the menu, too.

If you’re looking for some nightlife in Kefalonia, Lassi will be a good bet too with its variety of bars as well as restaurants and nightclubs.

12. Go wine tasting at a local vineyard

Of course, this Kefalonia travel guide wouldn’t be complete without an opportunity to taste some of the delicious wines made right here on the island!

While Kefalonian wines aren’t as well-known as those from other Greek islands, they are definitely worth tasting.

One of the best wineries to visit in Kefalonia is Orealios Gaea , located in the village of Omala.

The winery is one of the most famous in Kefalonia and produces a unique wine called Robola. Robola is a white wine that is considered one of the best in Greece!

While there you can take a tour of the winery and learn about the production process of Robola.

After the tour, you can then taste other wines produced at the vineyard and purchase your favorite bottles to take home – a perfect gift for your friends or family!

(Or to keep for yourself. 😉 )

Alternatively, you could opt for a more intimate wine tour that includes hotel pickup and dropoff, tasting fees, and complimentary snacks! ( This one has 231 5-star reviews! )

If you want to experience wine tasting in a more relaxed and casual setting, there are also several wine bars and restaurants in Kefalonia that offer a great selection of Kefalonian wines.

One of the most popular places to visit for this is Oenops Wine Bar in Argostoli.

This cozy bar offers a wide range of local wines, as well as cheeses, cured meats, and other local delicacies that perfectly complement the wines.

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Kefalonia travel guide: the best beaches in kefalonia.

The first thing I will always say about Kefalonia is – OH MY GOD THE BEACHES.

As I’ve said already, if you’re looking for a beach paradise, then Kefalonia should definitely be on your list.

But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which beaches to visit!

That’s why I’ve put together this convenient list to help you plan your perfect Kefalonia holiday.

1. myrtos beach

As mentioned above, Myrtos Beach is arguably one of the most famous beaches on the island.

It’s truly a breathtaking sight with its translucent ocean water and white pebble beach.

You can easily spend an entire day at Myrtos sunbathing, snorkeling, and playing in the waves.

There are also a few basic facilities available like some snack bars and beachside tavernas along the shore. Some offer lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent.

There are some outdoor showers to rinse off sand, but no designated changing rooms at Myrtos Beach. You should plan to change in your car or behind a towel for privacy.

I personally loved that Myrtos Beach only has the basics to offer – I think it makes it a little less crowded and commercial!

I also found it a little less crowded than the other beaches because it’s pretty far north from where most people stay, and you need a car to access it.

2. antisamos beach

Also mentioned above, Antisamos beach is one of the best-known beaches in Kefalonia besides Myrtos. Antisamos beach is close to the town of Sami on the east coast of Kefalonia.

This long strip of fine pebbles and clear, calm waters is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a relaxing backdrop for a day of fun in the sun.

No car? Short on time? No problem! I recommend taking one of the tours below so that you can still experience the best of all the glorious beaches in Kefalonia.

3. petani beach.

Situated on the northwest coast of the island, Petani Beach is a secluded and picturesque spot with those fine turquoise waters and a stunning sunset view.

It’s located about 9 miles (14 km) from Lixouri, the second-largest town on the island, and is accessible by car or motorbike via a scenic road that winds through the hills.

The beach itself is a long, pebbly stretch of shoreline, with sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. The calm and shallow waters make it a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling, and the surrounding cliffs offer excellent opportunities for rock climbing and hiking, too!

If you’re looking for a beach with excellent tavernas serving traditional Greek food as well as a famous sunset view, then Petani Beach is your spot.

It was easily one of the top beaches in Kefalonia that I visited!

4. Lourdas Beach

Lourdas Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kefalonia, and it’s not hard to see why!

Located in the southern part of the island, Lourdas Beach changes it up from the typical pebble beaches with a stunning stretch of white sand! This is backed by a dramatic mountain range.

It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and the clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and other water activities.

Lourdas Beach has plenty of amenities, including sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as beachside cafes and tavernas serving traditional Greek cuisine.

There’s also a watersports center where you can rent equipment for activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

There’s a large parking lot nearby as well as regular buses running from the nearby town of Lourdata, so it’s easily accessible.

5. Xi Beach

Xi beach is another must-visit beach on the island of Kefalonia and on this Kefalonia Greece travel guide.

Located on the southern coast near Lixouri, Xi beach stands out from other Kefalonian beaches because of its striking red sand and clay cliffs, which provide an impressive backdrop for a day spent lounging on the beach.

Though Xi beach is accessible from land, I accessed it from the water when I rented a boat for the day from Argostoli.

If you don’t have time or the transportation to head all the way over and down the Paliki peninsula, then a boat rental is definitely the best way to access Xi beach.

It was nothing short of unforgettable approaching the red sand and cliffs from the sea – they are truly red; pictures you’ll find on the internet aren’t exaggerating about that!

Xi beach is a bit more commercial than some others, with some trendy beach bars looking out over the sea. Restaurants, bars, changing rooms, and showers are all available here, so you’ve got all of the amenities you could need for a day in the sun.

6. Makris Gialos Beach

Another sandy beach in this Kefalonia travel guide is Makris Gialos beach.

Makris Gialos beach is a long, wide stretch of golden sand located in Lassi, Kefalonia.

It’s a Blue Flag beach that’s one of the most popular in the area, offering crystalline waters and plenty of amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Families frequent Makris Gialos beach often, as the shallow and calm water is ideal for kids.

It’s also a great place to visit for water sports, with plenty of opportunities for jet skiing, paragliding, and windsurfing!

Makris Gialos beach is particularly notable for its accessibility – it’s conveniently located near many of the area’s other top spots, including Argostoli.

If you’re interested in seeing more of the best beaches in the area, these top-rated tours from GetYourGuide will allow you to see it all in the least amount of time!

7. skala beach.

Skala beach is one of the longest beaches on the island of Kefalonia, stretching for over 1.5 miles (3 km) along the southern coast.

It’s best known for its soft golden sand and for being one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

Delicious meals, beach bars, watersports, and sunbathing are all on offer at Skala beach too, making it a great all-rounder to visit for the day.

Read more: 13 travel essentials that will change your life

8. white rocks beach.

Last but not least of the best beaches in Kefalonia on this Kefalonia travel guide is White Rocks beach.

White Rocks beach is only accessible from the water. And it just might be your first stop in the morning if you depart from Argostoli with your boat rental .

I can only sum up this beach in one word:

Breathtaking.

In my opinion, it is one of the absolute best beaches in Kefalonia.

The sheer limestone cliffs are almost engulfed in water that’s too blue to believe, and you can even try landing on shore for a private beach with major Robinson Crusoe vibes!

Just to give you an idea of the beauty of this beach, some people were setting up for an intimate wedding ceremony on one part of it. Talk about a destination wedding to remember!

I do suggest arriving earlier in the day at White Rocks beach if you want some tranquility and super peaceful vibes. Within half an hour of arriving as one of the first boats in the morning, we were joined by some larger (and noisier) tour boats!

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Getting Around Kefalonia

To make the most of your visit to Kefalonia, it’s important to have a reliable and efficient mode of transportation. There are several options for getting around Kefalonia, including car rental, public transportation, and taxis.

Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to explore Kefalonia. It’s easy to arrange a car rental at Kefalonia airport or in one of the island’s main towns.

The important thing with a rental car is that you can explore the island at your own pace and access more remote areas that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.

Since Kefalonia is all about nature and remoteness, I feel this makes a rental car essential.

Driving in Kefalonia is generally easy and safe, with well-maintained roads and stunning views.

(Just don’t go trying to drive off-road on paths riddled with boulders – we tried this and had to use my drone to survey the area and get us unstuck! Peep the image above for what that looked like 🙂 )

I rented with JoyRide Kefalonia through Rentalcars.com and the experience was seamless, cheaper than larger providers, and they were super friendly! However, I do recommend searching Rentalcars.com first in case there’s a cheaper or better option more suitable for you. Because Rentalcars.com has a price match guarantee. 🙂

Pro tip: Especially when you book your car rental with a smaller local company like I did, use a travel rewards credit card with rental car insurance like the CapitalOne Venture Rewards card (one of my favorite travel rewards credit cards and biggest travel hacks for saving lots of money traveling!). This will give you ultimate rental car insurance coverage so you don’t have to add it on from the rental company!

public transportation

For those who prefer not to drive or are looking to save even more money, public transportation is available in Kefalonia.

Kefalonia has a public bus system that connects many of the island’s villages and towns, as well as the airport and the main port of Sami.

The buses are operated by KTEL Kefalonias and generally run regularly – theoretically. Do keep in mind it is the Mediterranean, so things might be a bit slower or behind schedule.

Especially in more remote areas, it is important to note that public transportation on Kefalonia can be limited. This is why I really suggest renting a car as the best way to explore Kefalonia.

If you do take public transportation, planning ahead is key to make the most of your time on the island.

As such, if you plan to rely on public transportation to get around, it’s a good idea to check the KTEL Kefalonias website for the latest schedules and routes. But tickets can be purchased on board or at ticket offices in larger towns.

Another option for getting around without a car in Kefalonia is to use taxis.

Taxis are widely available on the island and are a convenient way to get around, especially if money isn’t as much of a concern for you. They can be hailed on the street or called from your hotel or accommodation.

You should be aware that taxis in Kefalonia operate on a meter system with fares that are regulated by the government. As such, make sure your taxi driver is running his meter before he takes off!

The base fare for a taxi ride on Kefalonia is 3 euros, and there is an additional charge of 0.74 euros per kilometer. Overall, it’s best to stick to the metered fare to ensure a fair price.

Some taxis may also offer fixed prices for certain routes or destinations, but these are typically negotiated in advance. While this isn’t always possible or advisable, if you do want to do this, it’s always a good idea to make sure the fare is agreed upon before you start the journey.

Some examples of fixed prices include a trip from Kefalonia airport to Argostoli, which typically costs around 20-25 euros. A ride from Argostoli to Lassi, a popular resort area, costs about 10-15 euros.

If you don’t want to have to worry about arranging transportation to your hotel when you land, I suggest booking your transfer beforehand (like this one to Assos ).

Of course, prices may vary depending on the time of day, season, and distance of the ride.

Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands or can be called to pick up passengers. You can also ask your hotel or accommodation to arrange for a taxi for you.

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Where to Eat and Drink in Kefalonia

For most of the restaurants below, I recommend booking well in advance, especially in the summer. I kind of tried to wing it for dinner on a night-by-night basis in July, and it didn’t really turn out very well.

Not fun to try to find another restaurant when you’re starving after a day in the sun!

1. Votsalo ( Emelisse nature resort )

Votsalo was by far the best restaurant I dined at while in Kefalonia.

If you like open-air fine dining with attention to detail and a stunning sunset view overlooking the sea, I can’t recommend Votsalo enough.

It’s not standard for visitors who aren’t staying at the resort to dine at this restaurant, but you can call the hotel and they will most often arrange for you to be let in the main gate by staff.

This is what I did and it worked like a charm!

2. Alati all day bar & restaurant

This is the top-rated restaurant on Kefalonia on TripAdvisor and for good reason!

They offer an extensive menu of Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood and grilled meats. And all over a beautiful view of the ocean to boot!

3. kastro cafe

Kastro Café is another top restaurant in Kefalonia and one of the most highly rated!

They’re known for their local Greek cuisine with a healthy assortment of Mediterranean and general European options, too.

Kastro Café is also vegetarian friendly, in case you’re veggie!

Highlights of recent visitors to Kastro Café have included the homemade pita and dips, as well as their lime cheesecake and pecan ice cream cake.

Kastro Café is also situated right next to St. George’s Castle in Peratata, so it’s easy to pair with a historical/cultural visit, too!

4. milos taverna

You’re lucky if you stumble upon this little gem of a restaurant while you’re in Kefalonia, but now you already know with this Kefalonia travel guide!

Milos Taverna is a traditional taverna with the husband part of the team cooking and the wife part of the team waiting tables.

People rant and rave about how amazing the food is here, and you can even get an amazing sunset view from the outside seating, too!

Read more: The ultimate packing list for summer in Europe

5. captain nikolas family tavern.

Captain Nikolas Family Tavern is located in the Paliki peninsula of Kefalonia and is a must-visit for those seeking traditional Greek cuisine in Kefalonia.

The restaurant boasts a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a menu that features a variety of seafood and meat dishes, as well as delicious vegetarian options.

You can also enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages and traditional Greek desserts while taking in the beautiful views of the wild surrounding area from the hillside terrace.

6. Il Borgo Restaurant

I ate at Il Borgo on the day I left Kefalonia, and let me tell you – it has one of the most amazing views you can find from the lovely outdoor terrace on a cliffside.

Il Borgo is another restaurant besides Votsalo that ventures a little closer into fine dining, and away from a more rustic traditional taverna experience.

You’ll enjoy your food and wine on a stone terrace blanketed with grapevines and a sunset view over the sea.

Since it can get really busy in the evenings during the summer, I would recommend calling ahead and reserving a table here.

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7. Lorraine’s magic hill

Lorraine’s Magic Hill in Lourdas is owned by Lorraine and Peter, who have made their home in Kefalonia with this restaurant since 1999. It’s downright charming, to say the least!

Lorraine offers some mainstay traditional Greek favorites as well as some interesting combinations on the menu, like beetroot tzatziki. You can’t find her specials on her website, as they change daily and are sure to intrigue and delight!

Lorraine’s Magic Hill was picked for a Traveler’s Choice award in 2022 from TripAdvisor and we saw multiple diners who have clearly been coming back year after year, greeted by Lorraine with a warm smile and hug.

Make sure to call ahead for a reservation and enjoy a stunning sunset view over some local wine, cocktails, and Lorraine and Peter’s delicious bites for dinner.

8. Akri Seaside Bar

Akri Seaside Bar is the #1 bar on Kefalonia on TripAdvisor, with 328 5-star reviews. Take one look at the stunning atmosphere and outdoor deck, and you’ll quickly see why!

They arguably have the best cocktails in Skala and are also a great place to visit for some dinner.

It can get busy so make sure to get a table early!

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Kefalonia

Remember, hotels can jump up in price and sometimes sell out quickly during the high season! As such, make sure to book in advance to get the best hotels and the best deals possible.

best Kefalonia hotels

Suites minetos – 9.9/10.

I stayed at Suites Minetos while visiting Kefalonia and it was situated perfectly on the south coast to explore the rest of the island.

It’s a one-bedroom apartment with a fully-equipped kitchen, living room with TV, and maybe most importantly – a stunning outdoor deck looking out over the sea, with Zakynthos in the distance!

The design is clean and modern and had everything I needed (including air conditioning!).

They’re also building a restaurant downstairs that I’m sure will be a delicious and convenient place to grab drinks and dinner once it’s finished!

Check availability now on Booking.com and Agoda .

Canale Hotel & Suites – 9.9/10

Canale Hotel & Suites is a luxurious, adults-only 4-star hotel located in the heart of Argostoli, Kefalonia.

It features modern and stylish rooms with a private balcony, some with sea views. Provided amenities include an infinity pool, a bar, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

Canale Hotel & Suites is ideally located near popular attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, the Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum, and the Koutavos Lagoon. This makes it a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the area!

A few top beaches like Kalamia Beach and Limanaki Beach are also located nearby, overall making this one of the best places to stay in Kefalonia without a car.

Speaking from experience, prices can go up and rooms can sell out quickly in Kefalonia, especially during the summer months. Book now so that you don’t miss out!

Casa montzo boutique hotel – 9.7/10.

Casa Montzo Boutique Hotel is a charming, family-run hotel located in the peaceful village of Ketlios, Kefalonia. It’s also one of the highest rated hotels you can book on Kefalonia!

The hotel boasts a fantastic location, just a short walk from the beach, where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

There are eight spacious and comfortable rooms at Casa Montzo, all uniquely decorated with traditional Kefalonian elements and modern amenities and each with a private balcony or terrace.

Guests can relax in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, soak up the sun on the terrace, or indulge in a refreshing drink at the bar.

Besides its excellent location and comfortable rooms, Casa Montzo Boutique Hotel is known for its warm and welcoming hospitality. The owners, Montzo and Tony, will go out of their way to make sure you have a memorable stay, offering personalized service and insider tips on the best local restaurants, beaches, and activities.

Check availability on Booking.com or Agoda .

Minies Beach Villas – 9.7/10

Minies Beach Villas is a complex of modern villas located in the village of Minies in Kefalonia.

The villas are surrounded by a beautiful garden, and each one has a private pool and a fully equipped kitchen.

These villas are literally right on the beach and the capital city of Argostoli is only a 10-minute drive away.

Guests praise the friendly staff and the peaceful location, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a quiet retreat in Kefalonia.

It’s also surprisingly affordable!

best Kefalonia resorts

F zeen retreat – 9.3/10.

F Zeen Retreat is well-known on Kefalonia island for being one of the most luxurious resorts available.

The 5-star adults-only resort is located in Lourdata and features stylish rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces, infinity pools, a spa, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

Emelisse Nature Resort – 9/10

You could have this sunset view if you stay at Emelisse Nature Resort!

Already mentioned above for its restaurant, Emelisse is perfectly summed up in one word:

Emelisse Nature Resort is a 4-star boutique hotel and resort located in the north near Fiskardo and offers elegant accommodations with sea or garden views. It also had two outdoor pools (one is an i nfinity pool looking out over the sea with stunning sunset views), a spa, and two restaurants serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Ionian Emerald Resort – 8.6/10

This 5-star resort is located in Karavomylos and offers modern rooms and suites with sea or garden views and multiple pools with easy access to a private beach.

They also have a spa and a restaurant that serves both Mediterranean and international cuisine.

Not only does Ionian Emerald Resort offer beautiful sea views, but they also boast views of Mount Ainos. The extensive gardens are a highlight of the property, full of trees and colorful flowers that provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Apostolata Island Resort & Spa – 7.6/10

Apostolata Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious accommodation option on the beautiful island of Kefalonia.

With stunning views of the Ionian Sea, the resort offers an indulgent spa and wellness center.

You can enjoy a range of dining options as a guest, including a bar and a traditional Greek taverna.

Spacious rooms and suites feature modern amenities and private balconies with breathtaking sea views.

best Kefalonia Hostels

Unfortunately, Kefalonia isn’t the best place for hostels yet. They currently don’t have any!

(Sorry, my backpacker friends.)

If you’re on a budget and/or backpacking island hopping in Greece , I recommend checking out the vast array of budget accommodations instead.

Other Kefalonia Travel Tips

1. Plan out your days (roughly) beforehand

Maybe this is just travel 1-0-1, but I didn’t use to be much of a planner when it came to travel because I had more time and enjoyed just wandering about.

However, now that I’m not just an undergrad student anymore, my vacation time is precious and I’m sure yours is, too!

So based off of this Kefalonia travel guide, sketch out a rough itinerary for yourself that you might like to follow.

Of course, be flexible and open to changes if and when things come up on your vacation. But a rough plan will help you make sure you maximize your Kefalonia holiday and don’t miss any of its many gems!

Read more: The step-by-step guide to traveling alone for the first time

2. start your days early(ish).

Ok, confession – I am not naturally an early riser, and getting up early is pretty much the last thing I want to do when I’m on vacation.

However, the Greek summers are H-O-T. That midday sun will sizzle you if you’re not careful!

To make sure you start your days refreshed and not melting in the heat, I recommend you hit the road by 10 am each day for your sightseeing, hiking, swimming, and sunbathing.

This can be especially true for the best beaches in Kefalonia. I recommend getting there in the morning so you can have a bit more of a peaceful experience away from so many crowds!

3. Remember – you’re on island time

What does this mean? Everything’s a bit slower-paced in southern Europe on the Mediterranean.

This can be owed a lot to the fact that it’s just so hot!

So remember when waiting for food at a restaurant or a bus or taxi that things just run on “island time” in Greece, including Kefalonia.

I recommend you just lean into it and enjoy the slower pace – you’re on vacation, after all!

Kefalonia Travel Guide: Plan Your Kefalonia Trip

Now that you’ve read through this Kefalonia travel guide, it’s time for you to start planning your trip!

First, don’t forget to book your accommodation with enough time to spare before rooms sell out or prices go up. This is especially true in June through August, during peak season!

Also make sure you check out all the great activities and attractions the island has to offer that I’ve mentioned above! Then pick your favorites and book them in advance, also to secure the best price and ensure availability.

Ready to start packing? Check out my ultimate Europe backpacking packing list for summer to make sure you’ve got everything you need to make your trip to Kefalonia a great one!

No time pin it for later.

Enjoyed this post?

Share it with your friends, reader interactions.

February 26, 2023 at 2:32 am

Great recs – good to know there are still some not so touristy options!

October 2, 2023 at 8:52 am

The article is fantastic! Kefalonia looks like an amazing place. I’d love to visit this island, even just from the pictures. If your writing is encouraging me to learn more about this magnificent place, then it’s definitely a successful article. Thank you! 🌴🌞😊

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Kefalonia (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Kefalonia (Greece)

Most of the top attractions on the mountainous island of Kefalonia are natural, like the mythic Melissani Cave or the highest peak, Mount Aenos. Kefalonia’s coastline is as rugged as its hinterland and this contributes to the majestic beauty of beaches like Myrtos and Petani.

Both are coves at the bottom of mighty cliffs with deep greenery on top that descends in columns down the rock face. You may not find two better beaches in all of Greece than this pair.

But on Kefalonia they’re accompanied by a bounty of other choices, from sandy bays where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs, to the idyllic cove at Assos Village, where the sea is as tranquil as a swimming pool.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Kefalonia :

1. Assos Village

On a natural harbour and an isthmus that fixes the Assos Peninsula to the Errisos Peninsula, Assos is an achingly pretty village in a cauldron of towering hills.

As with much of Kefalonia there’s greenery all around, in the palms by the water or the pines, firs and cypress trees in the hills.

Assos has a short quay moored with fishing boats and lined with tavernas and cafes, and this gives way to a pebble beach where houses have steps leading right down to the calm, pool-like waters.

On a crag 170 metres over Assos Bay is a Venetian castle, raised in 1593. The journey up a stone path is by no means easy but at the entrance you’ll be greeted by the stone lion of St Mark.

Through the gate you can pick your way through the ruins of the house of the Venetian High Commissioner.

2. Petani Beach

To get down to this beach on the eastern Paliki Peninsula you have to brave a white-knuckle ride of eight hairpin turns.

But you’ll know you made the right choice as soon as you step onto the beach and witness the epic limestone cliffs encircling it.

These are coated with dark green garrigue, which descends to the beach in columns creating a spectacular stripe effect.

The surface of the beach is white sand and gravel, giving the sea a luminescent quality by the shore.

When the surf is choppy it’s better to avoid the water as the sea drops off a few metres from the shore.

But on calm days the sea is like a sparkling pool and you can go snorkelling around the rocks on the south end.

3. Myrtos Beach

Equally dramatic and also at the end of a winding road, Myrtos Beach is often rated as the best in Greece and is a sight you may already know from photos.

The beach lies between the vertiginous lower slopes of two mountains, the 900-metre Kalon Oros and Agia Dynati, in the north of the island.

With tufts of green vegetation the slopes plunge to this marble pebble beach, which is almost a kilometre long and with rows of sun loungers to rent.

The beach shelves quite steeply, and when the light catches the marble sediment churned up in the water it glows in a mesmerising shade of blue.

4. Mount Aenos

The tallest mountain on Kefalonia crests at 1,628 metres and is inside a National Park.

At an elevation of 700 to 1,200 metres the mountain has a mantle of black pine and Greek fir forest inhabited by semi-wild ponies.

There are five signposted A to B and circular hiking trails in this magical environment, two of which incorporate Megas Soros, the highest summit.

The road most travelled is the 6.5-kilometre Digaleto – Megas Soros trail, which begins a kilometre outside the village of Digaleto and requires around 4.5 hours to reach the summit.

At the peak you’ll come a long ridge of bare rock, where you can take a breather and pick out the Ionian Islands and the Peloponnese peninsula.

5. Agios Gerasimos Monastery

St Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia and lived during the 16th century.

His mummified body is kept in a gleaming silver reliquary in this pink-brick church, and is occasionally displayed at services.

On his feast days on 16 August and 20 October his sarcophagus is carried over ailing worshippers.

Gerasimos founded the monastery in the 16th century on the site of an older one dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

In the courtyard is a venerable plane tree and a well, claimed to have been planted and sunk by the saint himself.

The church’s walls have radiant frescoes depicting bible scenes, saints, prophets and the apostles.

To the rear of the church is a trap door leading down to a cave where Gerasimos is believed to have lived before the monastery was constructed.

6. Antisamos Beach

Ten minutes east of Sami, Antisamos is another in Kefalonia’s collection of scenic beaches.

Antisamos is in a cove with a backdrop of high hills densely covered in dark green pines and brush.

Awarded the Blue Flag every year, the beach has a satisfying horseshoe shape and white pebbles instead of sand.

Bring a snorkel because the water is perfectly clear and you’ll see plenty of colourful fish.

Antisamos shot to fame in 2001 when it appeared in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin with Nicolas Cage and Penelope Cruz.

Where it was deserted before there are now three bars and tavernas and sun loungers for added comfort on the pebbly shore.

Scramble up to the 18th-century Monastery of Argilion above the beach’s west flank for a marvellous perspective of Antisamos and its dark hills.

7. Melissani Cave

One of those natural marvels that no picture can do justice, Melissani Cave is a sparkling blue underground lake, lit from above by a cavity in the rock.

In Greek mythology Melissani was the Cave of the Nymphs, where the nymph Melissani drowned after being rejected by the god Pan.

During an archaeological survey in 1962 oil lamps and plates were found depicting Pan.

Your visit will be short but memorable as you row out onto the lake with a guide to see the stalactites and shafts of light streaking through the hole in the ceiling, illuminating the water.

Make sure you come at midday when the sun is directly above that opening.

8. Argostoli Harbour

If you’re a very early riser try to come to Argostoli’s harbour promenade first thing to watch the sun rise on the other side of the bay.

A few metres from the quayside is a continuous line of palm trees, while the promenade has been paved with monochrome wavelike patterns and is lit at night by old-fashioned gaslights.

You could visit for a restorative stroll after an evening meal.

The harbour bustles with maritime activity in summer, particularly in the mornings when the fishing boats come in.

This is prime time to see loggerhead sea turtles in the water.

If you don’t want your walk to end you can continue up past the marina to Katavothres at the end of the peninsula.

9. Makris Gialos Beach

The beaches we’ve covered so far have been wild and scenic, but sometimes luxury and comfort are a priority.

And there’s lots of both at Makris Gialos Beach, a ribbon of golden sand served by beach bars.

It’s the kind of place where you won’t have to lift a finger to get drinks and food at your sun lounger, but there’s also space to the west for people who prefer to lie on their towels.

And despite being a touristy beach, there are only a few isolated buildings on the shore between the rocks and pine trees.

Makris Gialos has a designated area for beach games, as well as a watersports centre to get the adrenaline pumping.

10. Fiscardo Harbour

Kefalonia’s northernmost port is a delight, with paved quaysides where you can amble and watch the fishermen and amateur sailors tending their vessels.

There are old-fashioned gaslights on the way, and fronting the water in summer are tavernas, cafes and bakeries, interspersed by the odd boutique and art shop.

The harbour is completely sheltered and has glassy water with hardly a ripple.

Just across the channel are the mighty northwestern hills of Ithaca, while behind Fiscardo you can go walking in the fir-decked hills for a better vantage point for Ithaca and the deep blue Ionian Sea.

11. Kaminia Beach

Kefalonia’s southernmost beach is a nesting site for the loggerhead turtle, and there are a few signs to heed and markers pointing out the nests.

Apart from that you’re free to find a space for yourself on one of the longest sandy beaches on the island.

Kaminia Beach is two kilometres long and has three tavernas so you don’t have to go far if you’re peckish.

There’s a long double row of sun loungers and sun shades, but they’re not a necessity on the comfortable sand.

Being open to the wind and sea currents the beach has low, rolling waves, but unlike the deep Myrtos and Petani it has a gentle gradient so smaller children and non-swimmers can still enjoy the water.

12. Agios Georgios Castle

Crowning a hill to the southeast of Argostoli are the romantic ruins of a Venetian stronghold.

At 300 metres above sea level, Agios Georgios was founded by the Byzantines in the 12th century, while nearly all the remaining architecture is from the start of the 16th century when the Ottoman Empire’s brief dominion was ended by the Venetians.

They built an outer wall 620 metres in length, a citadel (kastro) and a road leading from Argostoli that twisted around the hill out of sight of approaching pirate vessels.

On a few of the buildings you can decipher coats of arms for Venetian nobility, and you can explore the ruins of the citadel’s houses and seek out two Medieval churches in different states of repair.

In the east is the brooding Mount Aenos, while south and west is beyond vineyards and olive groves is the deep blue Ionian Sea.

13. Drogorati Cave

Not far from Sami, Drogorati Cave was discovered at the turn of the 18th century when an earthquake made this system visible to the surface for the first time.

In 1963 it opened as a show cave and there’s a lot to love once complete the long descent.

In July and August you might be relieved to be out of the heat because the temperature down here is a constant 18°C and there’s 90% humidity.

The bizarre stalagmites and stalactites have been formed over millions of years, but unfortunately a few were lost when they were used as target practice in the Second World War.

The largest chamber is the extraordinary Chamber of Exaltation at 900 square metres, and with acoustics so good that concerts have been held down here.

14. De Bosset (Drapano) Bridge

Just over 200 years ago the picturesque Koutavos Lagoon next to the capital Argostoli was a foetid swamp and a breeding ground for malaria.

In 1813 the Swiss engineer Charles de Bosset was commissioned by the British Army to build a bridge over the swamp to improve access to the villages around the bay.

The first version was a wooden construction, but by the middle of the 19th century the whole structure was made of stone.

The bridge has reopened over the last few years as a pedestrian-only crossing after falling into disrepair in 2005. As you cross, get a snap of the obelisk erected when the bridge was completed in 1839, while you may also spot loggerhead turtles in the water, which come to the lagoon to feed.

At Sami you there’s a car ferry making the short crossing to the island of Ithaca, home of the mythological hero, Odysseus.

Looking at Ithaca from Kefalonia the island seems impenetrable, with almost vertiginous slopes climbing from its shore on two peninsulas joined by a slender isthmus.

In the spirit of Odysseus, Ithaca is an island to discover from the water, and at the charming main port of Vathy you can hire a low-powered motorboat without needing a permit and can go on your own voyage in search of coves that can only be approached by water.

On land you set off on invigorating hikes up to the Pernarakia and Kathara Monasteries, both of which have epic panoramas of Ithaca and the Ionian Islands.

15 Best Things to Do in Kefalonia (Greece):

• Assos Village
• Petani Beach
• Myrtos Beach
• Mount Aenos
• Agios Gerasimos Monastery
• Antisamos Beach
• Melissani Cave
• Argostoli Harbour
• Makris Gialos Beach
• Fiscardo Harbour
• Kaminia Beach
• Agios Georgios Castle
• Drogorati Cave
• De Bosset (Drapano) Bridge

10 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit on Kefalonia

Written by Jane Foster and Carri Wilbanks Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With bewitching turquoise and cerulean blue waters lapping up against white pebble beaches, and pine-scented limestone mountains slashed by lush, green, fertile valleys, Kefalonia (Cephalonia) is the largest, and one of the most beautiful, of Greece's Ionian Islands. In the previous millennium, the island depended primarily on agriculture, but following the 2001 film Captain Corelli's Mandolin , based on the book by Louis de Bernieres and starring Penelope Cruz and Nicholas Cage, tourism has become increasingly important.

Almost all the island's towns and villages were devastated by a terrible earthquake in 1953, so there is little architecture of historical interest, with one notable exception: somehow the village of Fiskardo survived the large-scale destruction. However, there are still plenty of beautiful places to visit on Kefalonia. The airport lies nine kilometers south of Argostoli, which is the island's capital.

Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do on Kefalonia.

1. Fiskardo

3. myrtos beach, 4. argostoli, 6. antisamos beach, 7. boat excursions, 8. melissani cave & lake, 9. hiking, biking, & bird-watching in ainos national park, 10. drongarati cave, where to stay on kefalonia for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do on kefalonia.

Unquestionably Kefalonia's prettiest village , Fiskardo lies on the northeastern tip of the island and is the only settlement to have retained its 18th-century Venetian-style architecture from before the earthquake.

Backed by a dense cypress glade and built around a sheltered bay, it is popular with sailing crews who moor up their yachts here on summer nights. Most of the houses around the harbor now host upmarket seafood eateries, cafés, and holiday homes.

Ássos is a peaceful little village on the island's northwest coast, 10-kilometers from the popular village of Fiskardo . It is built on a causeway linking a hilly peninsula to the mainland. To reach it, you drive down a series of hairpin bends to where the village nestles in a quaint harbor, rimmed by seafood taverns.

The peninsula is capped by the ruins of a 16th-century Venetian castle , which you can walk up to for a closer look (allow about 40 minutes), and there are a couple of pebble beaches close to the village, where you can swim.

One of the most photographed beaches in all of Greece is on Kefalonia. On the island's northwest coast, near Assos , Myrtos is beautiful. The two-kilometer-long beach is backed by dramatic limestone cliffs and fringes an amazing turquoise-blue sea. It's made of smooth white pebbles that, from afar, resemble sand. The view from the road above is stunning.

The beach itself is a little wild — there's no natural shade from the afternoon sun, and the seabed shelves suddenly into deep water with strong currents, so you need to be a confident swimmer.

On a peninsula on Kefalonia's southwest coast is the capital city of Argostóli. Although its history predates the 1950s, the old town was almost completely obliterated in an earthquake in 1953 and was rebuilt in modern style, following the original town plan. As a result, today it is a picturesque place, with a palm-lined seafront promenade, where local fishing boats moor up.

While in town, check out the small archaeological museum, which displays finds from the Mycenaean, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.

Located on the east coast, some 24 kilometers east from Argostóli , Sámi is the island's main port , served by regular ferries to and from Patras on the Greek mainland. The ancient town of Sami lay to the south of the modern town, on the slopes of the double-topped hill — the remains of the acropolis can still be seen, and from here, you have fine views down onto the bay.

In a deep, curving bay on the east coast, three kilometers from the port town of Sámi , Antisamos is one of the most popular beaches on Kefalonia. Like Myrtos Beach , it is made up of white pebbles and backed by hills planted with pine woods.

It has limited facilities with just a taverna plus sun-loungers and umbrellas for hire. The sea is warm and clear and ideal for snorkeling, and the beach scenes in Captain Corelli's Mandolin were filmed here.

One of the favorite things to do in Kefalonia is to book a boat tour around the island for a half or full day. From deserted beaches to hidden coves, the island is filled with beautiful spots that will take your breath away.

There are numerous companies offering tour options, from glass-bottom boat excursions and full-day beach and village tours to snorkeling or scuba diving adventures. For diving, popular spots include Temple Cave; the Blue Lagoon; and the WWII shipwreck dive to see the Ardenia, which hailed from Italy.

Northwest of Sámi, Melissáni Cave is home to an underground lake. To visit it, you walk down a flight of steps to a landing stage, then climb aboard a small rowing boat with an oarsman for a 15-minute trip around the lake.

The roof of the cave fell in years ago, and sunlight enters through the hole in the roof, creating amazing shades of blue-colored light on the cave walls. The best visual effects occur around noon, when the sun is overhead. Archaeological finds suggest that the cave may once have been used as an ancient place of worship.

In the south of the island, the summit of Mount Ainos is the highest point in Kefalonia and rises 1,628 meters in elevation inside a national park.

The upper altitudes are covered in dense pine forests of the species Abies cephalonica (Kefallonian fir), which is endemic to Greece and has remained exceptionally pure here due to the isolation of the island.

The national park is ideal for hiking and mountain biking, and bird-watchers might spot woodpeckers, eagles, vultures, and hawks.

Southwest of Sámi , near the village of Khaliotata, the Drongaráti Cave is huge — 95 meters long and 45 meters broad at its widest point. To enter it, you walk down a long flight of steps to arrive in an eerily beautiful cavern, well lit and filled with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.

The second chamber has outstanding natural acoustics and occasionally hosts concerts — American-Greek soprano Maria Callas is said to have sung here.

Luxury Hotels :

• On Kefalonia's southeast coast, Regina Dell Acqua Resort is set on the beachfront just a five-minute drive from downtown Skala. The five-star resort has a stylish, grand ambience throughout. The large swimming pool facing the Ionian Sea is a favorite perk. The gourmet restaurant here is also quite good, cooking up tasty Greek and Mediterranean fare.
• The Apollonion Asterias Resort & Spa is another top luxe choice that is great for families. Located in Lixouri, it has stylish rooms and suites, many of which have ocean views. The resort is also known for its architecture and contemporary art. There is a gallery on-site that hosts exhibitions throughout the summer season.
• Set on a hillside that slopes down to the sea, Apostolata Island Resort & Spa boasts great views from its rooms and suites. There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a full-service spa on-site. All sorts of activities, including sailing lessons, can be arranged at this luxury property.

Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:

• The Odyssey Boutique Hotel is one of the best mid-range properties on the island. The 4-star hotel has a fabulous location, with stunning views of Aghia Effimia bay. It is a stylish property with a mix of rooms and suites. Book one of the sea-view executive suites for the most luxe experience. Each has different decor and comes with either a hydro massage shower or Jacuzzi tub. The hotel caters to couples and adults, with no children under 16 years allowed.
• For a boutique hotel sleep that is still affordable, check out the Kefalonia Grand Hotel . The vibe is all about historic elegance here, and many rooms have ocean views. If you are traveling with kids, babysitting can be arranged.
• In Peratata Village, the two-star Ionis Hotel is a top budget choice. It has clean and comfy rooms, some with kitchenettes. There is a swimming pool and snack bar on-site as well.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Greek Islands : Kefalonia is just one of 6,000 islands scattered off mainland Greece. Most visitors choose to explore more than one island on their holiday. Santorini is probably the most popular of all the Greek isles and lives up to its reputation as a heavenly vacation spot. For more on visiting, see our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini .

Athens: You can't visit Greece without exploring Athens, its capital city, and the heart of Ancient Greece. Filled with a millennia of history and culture, you should devote at least a few days to wandering this special city. For more, check out our article on Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens .

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10 Beautiful things to do in Kefalonia

Kefalonia is an incredible island off of mainland Greece. Part of the collection of Ionian islands in the Ionian Sea. Kefalonia is one of the most underrated islands in Greece, full of sandy dramatic coves and beaches and beautiful pine trees and hills! We visited this beautiful island for a week in October 2020, we were so surprised at how much we loved this island, it has so much to offer and we could of spent so much longer then a week here. This is our guide to the top 10 things to do in Kefalonia.

Our Top 10 Things to do in Kefalonia

Fiskardo bay.

In 1953 an earthquake ruined most of Kefalonia’s Venetian architecture was ruined. Fiskardo still has some of its Venetian architecture making it a special and unique part of the island.

The most beautiful bay with colourful perfect houses and boats swaying in the harbour. Surrounded with beautiful tall pine trees in a sloping valley this bay was our favourite place in Kefalonia.

Fiskardo Bay itself is one of the most popular ports across the Ionian islands for Yachts. The waterfront is full of mega yachts and upscale restaurants to match. This bay is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the whole of Greece. With its pastel-coloured houses and cosy streets, it’s clear why so many people flock to this bay. It has a glamorous and cosy feel to it.

Perhaps best of all, this town is home to lots of cats! The locals provide food for all of them, and they are friendly. We brought some cat biscuits to feed the local cats if you want to you can do the same.

Places to eat in Fiskardo Bay

We stayed near Fiskardo and ate dinner in the harbour most nights. With so many options and a beautiful setting it makes for the perfect date night.

Nicolas Taverna

This Taverna offers the best views over Fiskardo bay itself as is known for its impeccable service and great local food.

Check out there trip advisor.

Irida Café Bar restaurant

We loved this little restaurant. They have outdoor seating right by the water’s edge and it makes for a perfect romantic setting.

Milos/Windmill

One of the few places open for breakfast. There is nothing more perfect than a cup of coffee with the sound of boats in the harbour sitting right by the sea. Heading to the bay early for breakfast gives you a chance to enjoy Fiskardo before the rush of tourists later in the day.

Check out our complete guide to Fiskardo for more.

Mytros Beach

Mytros beach is the most beautiful beach on the whole island! Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and golden sand with bright blue crystal clear sea. This beach rests in between mount Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros. These two mountains hugging the beach is what creates such a dramatic coastline for this iconic beach. This is one of the very best things to do on the island of Kefalonia.

Waves pick up the finest bits of marble, making the sea a beautiful shade of turquoise. The colour is so brilliant this beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world! At the end of the beach there is an awesome save cave and loads of rocks to jump off. You could easily spend a whole day relaxing on this beach and swimming in the sea.

If you are planning to spend the day here, it is defiantly worthwhile bringing some food. You can always head up to Divarata the town just before Mytros, to eat in the cafés and tavernas.

Fooki Beach

Despite its a odd name, this beach is stunning! It’s very different from your typical Greek beach as it is surrounded by amid oak trees and cypresses. The beach is shaped in a beautiful bay sheltered from winds with crystal clear water to swim in.

Agia Efimia Town

We stumbled across this town accidentally. When we first arrived in Kefalonia we were starving! We drove through this town and decided to stop for lunch, we were so happy with what we discovered.

Incedible food at Paradise beach bar

This restaurant has amazing views of the beach. Out of our week long stay in Kefalonia this was the best place for incredible views and food!

The most secluded beach

To the left of the little restaurant, there are steps down the cliffside to a tiny beach. There is a slightly bigger beach next to this one. Between the two beaches, you should be able to find a good spot to relax!

Mount Ainos

Mount Ainos is situated on the only National Park situated on a Greek Island. The National park itself is 3,000 hectares and is covered with black pine and Greek fir. If you are lucky, you might be able to see the Semi wild ponies that call this forest home. On the clearest of days, you can see the Peloponnese and Aetolia along with the islands of Ithaca and Zakynthos.

The top of the mountain itself is 1,628 meters high. Park at the telecommunications tower and get ready to hike up. The hike provides amazing views and the incredible views at the top are worth the climb.

Melissani Cave

You cannot miss this awesome cave! We are apprehensive with caves, as they nearly always seem to disappoint… but this one is the exception! At certain times of the day, the sun is at the correct point it completely illuminates the water to brilliant bright blue! One thing to bear in mind is if you visit at peak time it will be incredibly busy.

You can jump in the 15-degree water as long as you don’t mind sharing with meter-long eels. We read online that you are not allowed to swim in the lake, however, once we got there we were told otherwise. We were lucky to experience this place completely empty. It is worthwhile taking your swim stuff in case you have the option to swim. Despite the fact this cave can be busy, it is still certainly one of the best things to do in Kefalonia.

Melissani cave opening times and prices

From May until October the caves are open from 9am until 7pm in the evening.

Argostoli Kefalonia’s Capital

Kefalonia’s capital and main port! It’s a busy town on the waters edge.

Famous for its turtles that frequently visit. When we visited here there was group of researches looking out for the turtles. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any turtles, but it was great to talk to the researches about protecting the turtles and local marine life.

Argostoli town is great if you are craving somewhere lively with many restaurants bars and cafés. There are some lovely cafés and restaurants that are right by the waterfront and make a great setting for lunch or a coffee. The town itself is busy and full of charming small streets, open squares and boutique shops.

Makrys Gialos Beach

We stumbled across this beach when our flight got delayed, and we wanted to soak up some extra sun.

The only thing we would say about this beach is that it was busy and it was not peak season. The sand was beautiful, after spending a week on pebbly beaches, it was a welcome change. The only downside to this beach is that it is surrounded by large hotels. Certainly worth a trip if you want to enjoy the beach and if you are staying in Argostoli.

Places to eat in Argostoli

• El Greco , locally recommended to us amazing for Greek food and really friendly staff.
• Ampelaki , great for more traditional Greek food and caters well for vegetarians.
• Libretto , this cosy café serves incredible Waffles with all the trimmings.

Looking for an incredible villa? Check out our guide to the best Villas and Airbnbs here.

Assos Town 

This beautiful town with perfect colourful houses makes this little Town look like a dolls house. It’s gorgeous and has its own beach. We spent some time walking around and taking in the stunning views! Unfortunately, at the time, we visited the island had been hit by a terrible storm. This meant Assos town was very quiet and the places were closed. Visiting this town is the most popular of all the things to do in Kefalonia.

What to see in Assos

The castle of assos.

A beautiful example of Venetian Architecture. A stunning castle that was built in the 16th Century by the Venetians to protect the village. Forts used to be so profound throughout the entire village but today not much of the castle remains. Fortunately the beautiful arched entrance gate remains well-preserved.

Assos beach

Assos has two pebble beaches. A small one, and a larger one that has loungers. We only visited the Large beach but heard the small one is just as lovely. The larger beach has taverns and shops running next to it. Because of Assos’ popularity for a day trip to the island, prices are more pricey than other places on the island. Assos is truly picturesque and although it’s popular, its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere more than make up for it.

Travelling to Kefalonia?  Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Kefalonia.

Drive the Coastal Road

The coastal road from Argostoli to Assos has some INCREDIBLE viewpoints! The road is never busy and there are many spots to pull over and admire the views. With beaches revealing themselves only from certain spots on the coastal road, there is so much beauty to take in from this road. There are plenty of goats that walk along the road so be careful! Chances are you will hear them before you see them. If you plan to explore the island of Kefalonia you will most likely be driving along this road at some point.

Here are a few spots to make sure you dont miss:

• Viewpoint over Myrtos Beach, find it here.
• Viewpoint to Assos with hidden cove.
• Awesome viewpoint over Assos.

Things to do in Kefalonia, try the local Cuisine

The food in Greece was just mouth wateringly good. We loved everything we tried and stuck to traditional Greek food the whole time we visited.

Here are our top recommendations for dishes to order:

• Kolokithokeftedes – Fried Zucchini/Courgette Balls.
• Skordalia – Calling all garlic lovers, this is for you! A  Greek garlic dip  or  spread  made by combining crushed  garlic  with a thick base such as day-old bread or pureed  potatoes . A tun of olive oil and citrus. We ate this every day, we loved it. We ordered it with bread and fried courgette and aubergine. Trust us, it’s amazing.
• Tomatokeftedes – Fried Tomato Balls.
• Fava – very similar to hummus but with fava instead of chickpeas.
• Gigantes – broad beans in the most beautiful tomato and herb sauce (you can find this in most shops in tins and it is incredible).

Tips for Visiting Kefalonia

Transfer from kefalonia airport.

One important thing to note is that there are no bus transfers from the airport. Make sure you have a plan of what you are going to do upon arrival.

Typically, we will hire a moped to travel around our destination of choice. However, whilst visiting Kefalonia you will need a car to get around. We hired one from the airport from Hertz. Before we left for Kefalonia we read online that outside the airport is cheaper for hiring a car. We found the differences in price to be small and wanted to go with a brand we knew. In the airport, there are many to choose from!

The best area to stay in Kefalonia

We decided to stay near Fiskardo bay. Mainly because it was the most beautiful part of the island, and we could visit for dinner each night. We knew we wanted good views and an incredible villa. Our Airbnb was in the town of Agrilias. It was only a 15-minute drive to Fiskardo and its beaches. We also experienced incredible sunsets and our own pool.

Waking up every day surrounded by Pines and the sea in front of us was truly memorable. Our personal recommendation would be to stay near Fiskardo town. Other areas further south like Sami we found to be very touristy.

It all depends on what you are looking to get from your stay. If you want to walk to the beach it would be worth looking near to Argosoli. If you have a fairly generous budget stay in Fiskardo itself! To see which town is right for you read our guide to the best towns and villages in Kefalonia.

Accomodation

There are many beautiful hotels in Kefalonia, we decided to go for a villa on Airbnb . This allowed us to have our own pool and amazing views all to ourselves.

Hotel Options in Kefalonia

Emelisse nature resort , fiskardo..

• This resort is so beautiful! Enclosed with cypress and cedar trees and panoramic views of the mountains and sea, this resort is simply stunning. Perfect for couples and only a 10-minute walk to  Fiskardo bay . An ideal location for those looking to have a peaceful getaway, only a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Fiskardo Bay.
• Nearby Beaches : Emblisi Beach, Fiskardo Beach and Zavalata Beach.
• Rooms : All rooms have a balcony and some rooms have a terrace.
• Kefalonia Airport:  24.2 miles.
• A beautiful hotel near the incredible  Loutro beach.  This is the perfect combination of luxury and nature and is ideal for couples. F Zeen has a large focus on wellbeing with an outdoor gym, yoga studio and spa. F Zeen also has various retreats throughout the year  check them out here.
• Nearby Beaches :  Lourda Beach, Kanali beach and Stella Beach.
• Rooms:  Options vary from classic garden retreats to 3 bedroom villas with a private pool. They are all stunning and crafted with earth tones and elegant design.
• Kefalonia Airport:  7.3 miles.

Tourist Boutique Hotel Argostoli

• if you are wishing to stay in the heart of  Argostoli  this is the perfect place. Right on the waters edge and modern rooms. This hotel is near to eh beach famous for nesting turtles and near to the famous Lithostroto. A historic pedestrian walkway lined with cafes and shops.
• Nearby Beaches : Kalamia Beach, Crocodile Beach and Galaxy Beach.
• Rooms : Bright rooms with a modern feel. Most rooms have a stunning sea view.
• Kefalonia Airport : 4.1 miles.

Villas in Kefalonia

Aelia villa.

Check out the Airbnb we stayed in here. This Airbnb was incredible for sunset, and we loved sitting outside for dinner each night. Double doors open up from the master bedroom right onto the beautiful terrace. It was truly romantic. It is where we got engaged in 2020, so we can guarantee this place is special.

For more information on where to stay in Kefalonia, check out our guide to the best Kefalonia towns and villages.

The Best Time to go to Kefalonia

We visited in October, right at the end of the season, and it was perfect. With no crowds, we felt like we had the whole island to ourselves. If you’re looking to spend your time sunbathing you would have to go a little earlier in the year.

We hope you enjoyed our list of the top 10 things to do in Kefalonia. With its beautiful beaches, glamorous bays, bright blue sea, and dense forests. Kefalonia is so versatile. Greece has so many beautiful islands and we feel Kefalonia is one of them that should be on your bucket list. This island is incredible and is a lot less busy than other islands in Greece, we know you will love it.

Whats Next?

• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kefalonia, a stunning Greek Island
• Stunning Kefalonia Towns and Villages to Discover
• Fiskardo: Discover the most beautiful place in Kefalonia
• Assos Kefalonia A Guide to this Charming Village
• 12 of the Best Kefalonia Beaches
• Where to stay in Kefalonia, The Best Towns, Hotels & Villa s
• Beautiful Hotels in Kefalonia
• A Complete Guide to Discover Sami Kefalonia

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

February 20, 2021 at 7:31 pm

Looks absolutely gorgeous. I would love to visit Greece one day.

February 20, 2021 at 7:46 pm

I absolutely love Greece! This is definitely the next pla e for me to visit!!

February 20, 2021 at 11:54 pm

Kefalonia looks absolutely beautiful! I really want to go there on my next trip to Greece. All of your photos are stunning and I love the colorful houses. 🙂

February 21, 2021 at 10:11 am

Thank you so much. It is such a colourful island, it is simply stunning.

February 21, 2021 at 2:15 am

I haven’t heard of Kefalonia before, but it sounds absolutely stunning! I love that the coastal road has plenty of places to pull over, because I’m sure I would have my camera ready to go all the time!

February 21, 2021 at 10:10 am

Yes there are so many stunning spots on the coastal road, all camera-worthy! Especially with all the goats!

February 21, 2021 at 5:12 am

I love Greece! I’ve travelled quite a bit through the country but never got to Kefalonia. Looking forward to visit soon. Thanks for the great guide!

February 21, 2021 at 6:37 am

This is incredible – getting me to venture beyond Mykonos and Santorini next time I’m there!

February 21, 2021 at 10:09 am

Oh yes, there are definitely so many more islands worth exploring!

February 21, 2021 at 12:44 pm

I haven’t heard of this part of Greece before but the buildings look so pretty and colourful! Going to look into this when I plan my trip to Greece – hopefully this summer.

February 21, 2021 at 11:04 pm

We visit Greece frequently and particularly love the Ionian Sea. Been to Corfu and Lefkada but never to Kefalonia, although it is on our radar screen. The color and clarity of the Ionian is truly unreal. So many beautiful coves and beaches. Hopefully we can visit soon.

February 21, 2021 at 11:24 pm

Those colors on the buildings next to the water are absolutely beautiful!! What an amazing location! Thank you so much for sharing! We are trying to get to Greece soon and this is definitely going to be one of our stops!

February 22, 2021 at 12:28 am

Kefalonia looks incredible! We would love one day to explore the Greek islands!

February 22, 2021 at 6:54 pm

I had never heard of Kefalonia but your photos make it look so beautiful especially Mytros Beach

Beautiful Things to do in Castle Combe: A Guide to this fairy tale village

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Where to Stay in Kefalonia: 12 Best Areas

Are you thinking of visiting the Greek Isles? Wondering where to stay in Kefalonia ? In this blog we’ve put together a list of 12 of the best places to stay in Kefalonia, and why the different areas might meet your holiday requirements.

Lying in the Ionian Sea , Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands. It is also arguably the least touched by the increasing amount of tourism that is slowly taking over many of the smaller islands. 

A holiday destination for everyone, its crystal clear waters are home to myriad colourful fish that twist and dart around the cliffs and coves , entertaining the many scuba divers.

For the beach lovers the coastline is an endless stretch of rugged cliffs, picturesque coves, pretty working harbours, and pristine sand and pebble beaches lined with palm trees. For a backdrop, pine forests and cypress trees hug the mountainous hillsides.

Although hard hit by the 1953 earthquake that devastated much of its historic architecture, the island still has plenty to keep the history buffs happy. 

For the nature and countryside lovers looking to stay in Kefalonia, the interior is full of lush local vegetation, vineyards, and olive groves, while the mountainous terrain is dotted with forests of pine and oak. You might even find groups of long-horned sheep or goats wandering around the hillsides.

With beguiling traditional villages, and modern busy towns , you can split your stay in Kefalonia between quiet, laid-back beach days, and more active days spent hiking, exploring, and souvenir hunting, before enjoying a relaxing meal in one of the many local or international restaurants you’ll find in the resorts, towns, and villages around the island.

Table of Contents

1. Argostoli, capital town of Kefalonia

Argostoli lost most of its ancient Venetian architecture when it was badly hit by the earthquake. Nonetheless, in a short space of time the area rose from the ashes, to become a busy, attractive, modern Greek town , while managing to retain much of its traditional Greek charm.

You can stroll the wide, palm tree lined waterfront promenade, to its busy fishing port. If you’re a morning person, and enjoy an early morning constitutional, you can watch the boats off-loading the previous night’s catch, and admire the cruise ships anchored in the bay. 

The harbour and bay area is also home to a large number of loggerhead turtles , who have made a habit of waiting for fish scraps as the boats unload their catch. 

The two nearest beaches are Kalamia Beach, and Gradakia Beach , both just a couple of minutes walk. Or you can explore further afield on one of the many organised coach or boat trips.

At the rear of the seafront you’ll find the local pedestrianised ‘Plateia Valianou’ retail precinct, with many traditional shops intermingled with upmarket stores . This area is more than just a modern shopping centre. 

With its large square it is a main social hub, where many of the locals and visitors stop for brunch, or to enjoy an evening dining and socialising.

During the summer months you will be able to enjoy traditional Greek music , with local musicians singing and playing guitars and mandolins as they stroll through the square, and narrow streets. 

The town itself has everything you might need during your stay in Kefalonia including ATMs, supermarkets, pharmacies, clothes shops, and car-hire offices. You will also find bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a light brunch or full evening meal, dining al-fresco in the warm twilight air.

In the evenings, as well as the usual bars and restaurants, you can enjoy lively trendy cocktail bars, and find live music bars open till the early hours. 

Attractions around town include the De Bosset Bridge, the Saint Theodoroi Lighthouse, and Katavothres – for great views when you want to stop for some refreshment.

If beautiful Argostoli sounds like the place you want to stay in Kefalonia, there is a good selection of all levels of accommodation available , from both private lets and tour operators.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ARGOSTOLI

• ($$) Aenos Hotel
• ($$) Kefalonia Grand
• ($) Mouikis Hotel

2. Lassi, a tourist hotspot where to stay in Kefalonia for all ages

Just 3km from Argostoli , and 6km from the airport, Lassi is one of the oldest, and most popular resorts where to stay in Kefalonia. For over 20 years it has been a favourite place to stay in Kefalonia for singles, couples, and families of all ages. 

Centrally positioned on the west coast, it is also ideally situated for those who enjoy time away from the beach, and want to explore the surrounding areas.

Although long standing and very popular, Lassi, (and most of Kefalonia), hasn’t given in to mass tourism like many resorts in the Mediterranean. 

With no main village area to speak of, some say a lot of the Greek atmosphere is lost in Lassi, but in reality a glance around the resort, the sunshine, and the rugged, mountainous backdrop , tells a different story.

Most of the low rise hotels and apartment blocks fill the area amongst the cypress trees to the rear of the beaches, and there are shops, mini-markets, ATMs and vehicle hire offices for your everyday needs. 

More bars and eateries stretch the one kilometre length of beach alongside the quiet coast road. Whatever your culinary preferences, you will find something to suit, including fast food and traditional Greek street food. 

The beach front itself has plenty of sunbeds and parasols, bars, restaurants , and beach shacks that stretch along its length, and a good selection of water-sports are available.

If you fancy those quieter beach days during your holiday in Kefalonia, then t he beaches of Kalamia, Gradakia and Tourkopodaro are all just a short walk around the coast. 

If you enjoy hiking , Argostoli can be walked in around 30 minutes, or you can use public transport, taxis, or hire a vehicle. Quad bikes are very popular. 

Lassi’s nightlife caters for most tastes, including fun cocktail bars and light entertainment bars open till late. For those looking for live music, dancing, and late-late bars in Kefalonia, the short trip into Argostoli is probably the better option.

If Lassi sounds like your place to stay in Kefalonia for your break, it has an excellent variety of accommodation, from self-catering studios to mid and high range hotels, and villas.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LASSI

• ($$) White Rocks Hotel Kefalonia
• ($$) Avra Private Suites
• ($) Constantinos Apartments

3. Lixouri, a popular resort where to stay in Kefalonia

Located 35 kilometres across the bay from Argostoli, Lixouri is the second largest town on the island. 

Devastated by the earthquake, to a point where just two villas remained standing after the last tremors had subsided, it was totally rebuilt in typically modern Greek style, with colourful facades and red pantile roofs.

The town lays back from a busy, bustling harbour, where you can catch a ferry from Lixouri to Argostoli, or enjoy boat trips to the other islands. 

If you fancy a change from Lixouri beach, a pleasant few minutes stroll along the wide promenade will get you to the beaches of Lepeda, Xi-beach, and Mega Lakos. While a little farther out, you will find the beaches of Petani, Platia Ammos, and Atheras . 

Along the walkway you will find plenty of taverns, bars and eateries , where you can stop for lunch or some light refreshment.

In the town you can get everything you’ll need for your self-catering holiday in Kefalonia. Its large square, ‘Plateia Petritsi’ , is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops; and is the social hub both day and night for locals and visitors. 

Much of the centre of town has been pedestrianised, making it a great place for strolling arm-in-arm while exploring the shops and businesses for those quirky mementos of a holiday enjoyed.

Lixouri is a very busy, popular resort in the summer with visitors who want just a week or two in the sun. For those who like to get out and about, because it sits around the Paliki peninsular you have a 45 minute drive before you reach the main part of the island. 

A better option would be to enjoy a relaxing 25 minute ferry crossing from Lixouri to Argostoli, and pick up a hire car from there.

As you would expect from a large holiday resort, Lixouri has an excellent range of all accommodations from budget to 5-star hotels and villas for your stay in Kefalonia.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LIXOURI

• ($$$) Apollonion Asterias Resort and Spa
• ($$) Kymata Bohemian Beach Resort
• ($) Terra Mare Hotel

4. Assos, a great romantic break for couples of all ages

Not a destination for the late night party people, Assos is a small, quiet, picturesque coastal village , popular with those who enjoy relaxing, away-from-it-all holidays in Kefalonia to recharge the batteries. 

Its appealing character also makes it a popular choice for couples seeking that special-occasion stay in Kefalonia summer or winter. It’s the most beautiful and romantic village on the island

Situated on the north-west coast, around 35 kilometres from the island’s capital, Assos is another village that lost much of its Venetian architecture during the earthquake, although you would find it hard to believe. 

With the help of the French relief services, the village was returned to its former glory. Situated near the sea front, the village square is named ‘Paris Square’, and has a plaque dedicated to the French workforce alongside its war memorial.

Curving around the small bay with its pebble beach , the village is built terrace style, with properties stepped back, away from the beach. 

One of its main attractions is the large 15th century Venetian castle , which is open to the public. Although the walk to the castle is steep, rising around 150 metres, it is well worth the effort for the magnificent views across the village and bay, as well as the impressive castle.

The beach has sunbeds and parasols, with a couple of taverns and a beach shop available for all your beach day needs. A little south of Assos is Kefalonia’s most photographed beach, Myrtos , which can be reached from the road out of Assos. 

The views from the top of the road are breath-taking, so be sure to take a couple of shots before driving down the narrow lane to the beach.

With a good selection of eateries and bars, evenings are quiet affairs spent on terraces chatting with the local staff and new made friends. 

If Assos sounds like your best place to stay in Kefalonia, accommodation is varied but limited , so early booking is advised.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KEFALONIA IN ASSOS

• ($$) Roi Apartments
• ($) Romanza Studios

5. Fiskardo, Kefalonia’s very own French Riviera – sort of

Nestling on the northern tip of Kefalonia, Fiskardo (often spelt Fiscardo) is one of the very few villages unaffected by the earthquake, and most of its Venetian buildings still stand today. 

As one of the island’s prettiest fishing villages , with its natural harbour it has become the must visit destination for all the private and charter boats and yachts in the Ionian Sea – or at least – for many visitors it seems that way.

Along its pretty waterfront, working fishing boats at one end bob gently on the calm waters, while at the other end, luxury motorboats and private and chartered sailboats are moored close together, their owners, skippers, and crews partying in the bars and eateries along the front.

Scenic Fiskardo has undoubtedly moved up the social ladder, and is expensive compared to many holiday resorts in Kefalonia. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for that perfect relaxing holiday, and don’t mind pushing the boat out, it is a fabulous place where to stay in Kefalonia.

For the beach lovers, Zavalata beach is just at the end of the harbour. No sunbeds or parasols, but the cypress trees give some respite from the sun. Pretty Emblisi beach is a kilometre along the coast, shade care of olive trees, and it has a small beach bar. 

Foki beach is around 1.5 km away, and easily walkable. It has a small tavern, but no beds or sun shades. Again, plenty of cypress trees on the edge of the beach for shade.

If you like to do your own thing, you can hire boats and kayaks, book organised boat trips, and try your hand at scuba diving.

If you prefer to explore the interior, there is a good selection of walking and hiking trails and e-bike tours. You can also hire a car and explore further afield.

In the evenings, if you’re on a romantic break in Kefalonia, grab a table early along the harbour to watch the sun go down. With the light from the bars, restaurants, and yachts reflecting off the water’s surface, it provides an ambiance of total tranquillity.

If Fiskardo sounds like your place to stay in Kefalonia, there is a good selection of apartments, villas, and hotels available , but be prepared to pay a premium.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN FISKARDO

• ($$$) Emelisse Nature Resort
• ($$) Melmar View
• ($) Stella Hotel Apartments

See also: Where to stay in Zakynthos , where to stay in Corfu , where to stay in Crete , where to stay in Lefkada , where to stay in Kos

6. Agia Efimia, a holiday destination for all

Two-thirds up the north-eastern coast of Kefalonia, Agia Efimia is another coastal village totally decimated by the ’53 earthquake, and rebuilt with French assistance. 

The result is an attractive, typically Ionian fishing village, complete with a harbour that has made it popular for cruising motor boats and large yachts to stop over for some shore time.

Although tourism has become a big part of the village’s income, its 450 residents still rely heavily on agriculture and fishing. Small Greek farms can be found around the countryside, and the fishing fleet is watched as they land the night’s catch in the early mornings.

On the surface, the village feels refreshingly un-commercialised , yet visitors and the boating fraternity are well served by village facilities which include tavernas, restaurants, a post office, ATMs, hair stylist, pharmacy, cafes, mini-markets and bakeries offering all the provisions needed for your self-catering week in Kefalonia, or for numerous days at sea. 

Along the village coastline are four pretty little pebble beaches along with numerous small coves to be explored if you hire a boat. A dive school is located on the quayside, and organised cruises are available to the islands of Ithaca, Meganissi, and Skopios.

Going inland, various organised tours or safaris are available including to the ruins of an old Venetian fortress, the National Park, Mount Ainos, the Monastery of Themata, and Myrtos beach.

Evenings are quiet relaxing affairs spent in the friendly bars and restaurants dotted around the village and along the quayside. 

Choose from an array of local and international dishes , then settle with a pint of local beer or glass of local wine, and learn a little of the history of Agia Efimia from the friendly bar staff and restaurant owners.

If Agia Efimia sounds like the place to be for your stay in Kefalonia, the village has a good selection of accommodation from studios to apartments, villas, and a few hotels .

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN AGIA EFIMIA

• ($) Gonatas Hotel
• ($) Waterside Apartments
• ($) The Seasons of Nickolas

7. Sami, a good base where to stay in Kefalonia for exploring the island

Around 26km east of Argostoli, and sharing the same large bay with Agia Efimia, Sami is the second largest port in Kefalonia, and has daily ferry sailings to Patra and Ithaca, and a weekly sailing to Italy. 

It is also another popular stopover for yachts and boats wanting to provision up, and enjoy a little time ashore.

Although not as popular as many coastal villages, it is well situated for those who want to explore the island via trips, tours, or hire cars. 

The two closest beaches are Karavomilos, and Antisamos , both pebble beaches and walkable along the front.

The waterfront has plenty of bars, seafood restaurants, and shops to be explored as does the town, including supermarkets, ATMs, pharmacies, post office, police and fire stations, and the coastguard. 

Unlike many Greek coastal resorts, the streets are paved and reasonably wide around town, and if you’re driving, parking shouldn’t prove a problem.

Places of interest locally include the underground lakes at Karavomylos and Melissani , the cave at Drogarati, the Agrilia Monastery built in the 18th century, and t he Roman Baths which have been dated back to the 3rd century BC.

For the evenings there are numerous bars and restaurants to suit all tastes, with many open after midnight.

If you want to spend some time in Sami during your stay in Kefalonia, there is a good selection of all types of self-catering accommodation, hotels, and an attractive campsite for backpackers on the edge of town.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KEFALONIA IN SAMI

• ($$$) Ionian Emerald Resort
• ($$) Alancia Suites
• ($) Sami Beach Hotel

8. Poros, a less busy resort for families and couples

Sitting on the south-eastern coast of Kefalonia, Poros is a pretty coastal village with a busy working port. 

Around an hour’s drive from Argostoli and the airport, in recent times it has seen visitor numbers drop in favour of resorts like Skala and Lassi. Although many who have visited Poros before, may consider that a bonus.

The port area is divided into the old and the new, with fishing boats, visiting private motor boats and yachts, charter boats to other islands, and large ferries with routes to and from Kefalonia to mainland Greece. 

There is a small pebble/shingle beach close to the port with bars, restaurants, and shops for you to rest and browse. 

The two blue flag beaches of Aragia and Ragia are close by, and often less busy, with others, such as Koutsoupia beach , only accessible by hiring a boat.

At the rear of Poros, you will find plenty of walking and hiking trails to explore the lush, green, Mediterranean vegetation in the valleys, changing to pine and cypress forests as the altitude increases up Mount Atros .

The village and port area is well equipped for visitors, with the usual tavernas, restaurants, ATMs, shops, supermarkets, and car-hire offices. 

Points of interest include the imposing Drakena Cave , the Atros monastery dating back to 800 AD, and the magnificent gorge of Vohyna.

Evenings tend to be quiet relaxed affairs, with a plentiful choice of restaurants and local eateries . Likewise, tavernas are pleasantly relaxed establishments, where you are more likely to hear the hum of quiet conversation, rather than booming music or karaoke. 

The bars along the quayside are probably a little louder, but don’t expect live music or late night drinking into the early hours.

If a traditional Greek working port appeals for your stay in Kefalonia, Poros has limited but varied accommodation options , including studios, apartments, villas, and a variety of hotels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN POROS

• ($) Hotel Oceanis
• ($) Hotel Anastazia
• ($) Riviera Hotel

9. Skala, a busy package holiday resort

Nestling on the bottom southern corner of the island, around 35km from Argostoli and 12km south of Poros, Skala is the Greek version of a Mediterranean sun and sand package holiday in Kefalonia. 

Nonetheless, with one of the prettiest sandy beaches in Kefalonia , and its excellent tourist infrastructure , it continues to draw visitors of all ages in increasing numbers from mainland Greece, the UK, and across Europe.

With the original Skala having been destroyed by the earthquake, (the remains can still be seen today), new Skala was designed and rebuilt to cater for the increasing numbers of holidaymakers arriving from abroad. 

Its long, wide, shingle and sand beach has all the requisite sunbeds and parasols, with bars, restaurants, and shops spread along the front, while along the beach you will find a good selection of all types of water-sports.

Skala town has everything you need for your break , from plenty of tavernas and restaurants, to all sorts of shops, mini-markets, ATMs, and car-hire offices. In fact everything you would expect in a popular package holiday destination.

Local attractions are a bit thin on the ground, in part due to the earthquake, but there is an old Roman villa just up from the beach which has an attractive preserved mosaic floor, and is open to the public. 

If you fancy a short drive into the countryside you can visit Mount Ainos , or a little further out you will find the Castle of St George . If you want to explore further afield there is public transport, taxis, organised trips, or the self-drive option.

Many tourists choose to visit the island because of the varied nightlife in Kefalonia, and Skala is a good case in point. Many of the hotels put on evening entertainment for their guests, so night-times around the resort are often a little quieter than day times, especially in the early evenings. 

If you fancy dining out al fresco you can choose from fish restaurants , traditional Greek restaurants, international restaurants, and fast food outlets, with menus to suit all tastes.

Local bars and tavernas also cater for all tastes, from little terrace bars overlooking the beach, to lively cocktail bars , and bars popular with younger visitors, although don’t expect all night drinking.

Very much a package holiday destination, Skala has a good selection of tour operator and privately owned accommodation for your stay in Kefalonia.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SKALA

• ($$$) Apostolata Island Resort and Spa
• ($$) Asteris Hotel
• ($) Mounda Beach Hotel

10. Katelios, popular place to stay in Kefalonia with older couples and mature singles

Although Katelios is just 6km west of Skala, the two couldn’t be further apart character wise. Katelios is actually divided into two. 

The traditional Greek village of Ano Katelios , which is situated slightly inland and where the majority of local residents live, and Kato Katelios, the pretty coastal village , and more popular with tourists.

For many, the typical Greek ambience of the village, its beach, its friendly tavernas, and excellent local cuisine, are all they need for a holiday in Kefalonia away from the stress-building daily grind of commuting to and from work. 

Although most of what you need on a day-to-day basis can be found in the village, Skala is just 15 minutes away by car, and great for a change of scenery or a few hours retail therapy.

For hikers and nature lovers staying in Katelios, there are beautiful scenic country walks which will get you to traditional Greek villages such as Hionata, Mavrata, Markopoulo and Ratzakli, where you can stop for a little light refreshment or souvenir hunting. 

When exploring the beaches along the coast, be sure not to miss Kaminia beach, where Caretta turtles can often be seen dragging themselves out of the water.

Night times in Katelios, you have a choice of laid back relaxing hours spent in a local restaurant enjoying the various courses of the evening meal, all washed down with a bottle or three of the very palatable local wines. 

Or stroll through to the quiet bars along the beachfront, where a few pints of the local ale with friends and family is the perfect way to round off the perfect day.

If Katelios sounds like your place to be for a relaxing stay in Kefalonia , it has a good selection of self-catering accommodation and hotels to suit all pockets.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KEFALONIA IN KATELIOS

• ($$$) Olivemare
• ($$) Magnolia Resort
• ($) Alkioni Hotel

11. Lourdas (Lourdata), a family friendly destination

On the west coast of the island, in one of Kefalonia’s largest bays, lays Lourdas, just 15km south of the capital Argostoli , and a 30 minute drive from the airport.

The 1.5km sand and shingle beach , plus the other beaches that stretch around the bay, attract large numbers of residents and visitors throughout the summer season. Plenty of sunbeds and parasols are available on the beach as is a variety of water-sports.

The unmade road at the rear of the beach, as well as being used as the beach car park; has bars, tavernas, and beach shacks dotted along its length. 

Behind the road, the volcanic hillsides have thick, olive green vegetation turning to pine and cypress groves, as the hillsides climb upward toward Mount Aenos.

At the top of the beach is the main Skala coast road, and the village and most of the accommodation are to the rear and along the road. 

Around the pleasant village square , there are adequate numbers of shops, bars, and tavernas to supply all your needs during your stay. From here, on a clear day, you can look across the water to the island of Zakynthos.

The nearest attraction is the Monastery of Sissia , but there are plenty of organised tours available, and public transport to and from the capital is reasonably frequent if you don’t want to hire a car.

For your stay in Kefalonia, Lourdas has an adequate selection of self-catering apartments and villas, and a good choice of hotels at all levels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LOURDATAS

• ($$$) F Zeen
• ($$) La Signora Hotel
• ($) Ocean Front Studios

12. Svoronata, where to stay in Kefalonia for quiet holidays

Because of the nature of the Greek Isles, if you have disability problems, getting around outside your hotel or apartment complex can often be a difficult and frustrating experience. If you have family members in this situation, looking for suitable holidays for the disabled in Kefalonia, Svoronata might just fit the bill.

Nestling on the west coast of the island, around 10km from Argostoli and the airport, Svoronata is a pretty, picturesque village with one big plus. Compared to many of the resorts around the island, it is relatively flat. 

A primarily agricultural area , the surrounding countryside is full of olive groves, orange groves, and vineyards. Interspersed with areas of lush Mediterranean vegetation, flowering shrubs, and groves of cypress trees.

Sitting a kilometre inland, the resort was untouched by the ’53 earthquake, and the traditional village buildings and infrastructure still stand. 

Over the years low-rise apartment blocks and hotels have been built around the village area, and along the beachfront , but ruins of its original Venetian architecture remain, and quiet Svoronata continues to retain much of its old-world charm.

Beach wise, Svoronata is blessed with the pretty sandy beaches of Ai-Helis, Avithos, Ammes, Platis Gialos and Makris Gialos, all within easy walking distance or a short car ride.

Tourist facilities in the village are basic but adequate, with just a few mini-marts for your daily needs and a few bars and tavernas dotted around the area. 

For those times away from the beach, on the Svoronata to Avithos road there is a karting track open during the evening only. 

The church of Svoronata is one of the largest in Kefalonia, and a popular attraction, as is the small chapel and its golden temple in the neighbouring village of Ntomata . 

You could also ask for directions to the old windmill . It is said to be a favourite place of the English poet Lord Byron, when he was looking for inspiration.

Although many visitors to Svoronata choose to use it as a base for exploring more of the island by hire car, it is an excellent choice for those wanting to just relax, work on their suntan, and enjoy the laid-back, friendly Greek way of life.

If you think Svoronata will meet your needs for your stay in Kefalonia, it has a good selection of all types of accommodation from self-catering studios and apartments, to mid-range and high-end hotels and villas.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SVORONATA

• ($$$) Electra Kefalonia Hotel & Spa
• ($$) Avithos Resort Hotel
• ($$) Leivatho Hotel

6 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Kefalonia: 12 Best Areas”

On the point and informative guide, thank you. Would you agree that staying in 2 locations might be a better solution for 10-14 day family holiday. There is so much to see, which involves driving so staying in 2 places might be able to optimise the travelling. Following your recommendations I was thinking of staying in Argostoli (5-6 days) to enjoy the liveliness and then something completetely around Sami or Fiscardo (5-6 days) which would also allow us to do a day trip to Ithaki! Once again, thanks for the informative article, well done!

Hi MonoApoel. For a 10-14 day holiday I would definitely split up my time in 2 destinations.

Thank you for this We found it very useful We like Poros, as you mentioned it was less touristy than Skala but it is nice to be on the eastern side of the island. We found prices here very reasonable and the welcome was very warm and genuine

A great insight into the island. After booking flights for 2 weeks I thought I would get board with little to do but after reading all your details on the island I am now really looking forward to my trip. All the information given makes such a difference when planning a holiday. Many thanks

Hi Chistine. Great to know the post was usueful for you

Thank you so much for the tremendously detailed information of where to go in Kefalonia. It really has given me a good flavour of what to expect in the various areas and has helped me to pinpoint a couple of places to investigate for our forthcoming holiday. 👏👏

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10 Beautiful Places To Visit In The Ionian Islands, Greece

• The Ionian Islands of Greece offer a unique Mediterranean vacation experience with stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a blend of Italian-Greek influences.
• Top attractions in Zakynthos include the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, offering boat trips at affordable prices.
• Lefkada is known for its beautiful beach towns, windsurfing opportunities, and picturesque Nydri Town, with affordable parking options.

The Ionian Islands of Greece offer a heady blend of natural beauty, history, and culture across its islands. From architectural wonders and mythical sites to charming towns and beaches, a visit promises an enriching Mediterranean island experience like no other. Careful planning helps make the most of this beautiful region.

The Ionian Islands occupy a unique position off the west coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. Home to stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, intriguing architecture, and a blend of Italian-Greek influences, these islands make for an idyllic Mediterranean vacation. Here are the top places worth visiting in the Ionian Islands of Greece.

Zakynthos is the third largest of the Ionian Islands. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its blue caves, shipwreck beach, and endangered sea turtle population. Some of the top attractions in Zakynthos include the Blue Caves, located on the west coast.

Boat trips run during the summer months to explore the caves and their brilliant shades of blue. Another draw is Shipwreck Beach on the southern coast, which gained prominence after being featured in the movie Shipwrecked .

• Boat trips to Blue Caves cost around $20
• No entrance fee to Shipwreck Beach but parking is $3-5

RELATED: 10 Most Interesting Historic Sites In Greece & The Amazing Stories Associated With Them

Just south of Corfu, the small island of Paxi retains its traditional character with whitewashed villages and olive groves. It is renowned for iconic images including the Azure windows and beaches only accessible by boat.

Top attractions include the former geological wonder the Azure Window along the coastline and Magganari Beach, often featured on "best beach" lists.

• Boat rides to beaches and villages cost $5-15 per person depending on the destination
• No entrance fees for beaches or sites on Paxi

The island of Lefkada clings to the western coast of mainland Greece. It draws visitors to explore its beautiful beach towns in Greece , inhabitant villages, and unique windsurfing opportunities. Nydri Town is a picturesque port known for its narrow alleyways, churches, and local restaurant cuisine.

Vasiliki Harbor is a renowned windsurfing destination, offering equipment rentals and calm waters for beginners.

• Parking in Nydri about $2-4 for the day
• Windsurfing gear rentals average $20-30 per day in Vasiliki

Hydra, Saronic Gulf Islands

An authentically preserved maritime town with no motor vehicles, Hydra is a delightful escape into Greek island life of a bygone era. It is one of the most beautiful small towns to visit in Greece .

Mule trails link its picturesque stone villages where visitors can go on relaxing walks or sip Greek coffee while admiring the harbor views. There are regular ferries from Piraeus during peak season.

• Ferry ticket from Piraeus costs around $30-40
• Car or motorbike transfers are prohibited on the island.

RELATED: 10 Most Unique Places To Visit In Crete, Greece

Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island, has diverse attractions from rugged coastlines to vineyards. The fishing village of Fiskardo Harbor features Venetian architecture and is considered one of Greece's most beautiful towns.

Popular beaches and sites include the secluded cove Assos Beach nestled between cliffs, and the underground freshwater lake Melissani Lake accessible by a singular cave opening.

• Free entrance to beaches, no parking fees on Kefalonia
• Wine tasting at local wineries average $10

The renowned Robola white wine region around Argostoli offers tastings at local wineries.

As the home of King Odysseus, Ithaki remains a rural island and a top destination for mythology enthusiasts. Its rolling hills are dotted with traditional villages like the island's main town Vathy Harbor along the quay.

Frikes Village high above the southern coast offers views of olive groves from its stone homes. Polis Bay on the southern coast is a virtually untouched cove with turquoise waters surrounded by hills.

• Free parking and entrance to all sites on Ithaki
• Ferry rides between larger islands like Kefalonia and Ithaki range from $20-30

Kioni Town is perched on cliffs above the sea, offering local seafood restaurants.

Corfu, Ionian islands

Corfu town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a highlight of beautiful islands In Greece with its labyrinthine alleyways, French-influenced buildings, and lovely plazas.

The Old Town of Corfu is home to the Liston, a beautiful arcade lined with cafes and restaurants. Visitors can also visit Pontikonisi island known as the 'Mouse island,' cruising along the scenic west coast and relaxing on beautiful sandy beaches.

• Entry to Old Town is free
• Boat trips are priced around $10-15 depending on duration.

RELATED: Mediterranean Summer: 10 Best Day Trips From Athens, Greece

Melissani Cave

Melissani Cave, a mystical grotto hidden deep within Kefalonia's verdant interior, is one of the activities for first-timers visiting Greece . Stepping aboard a traditional caïque boat, trippers float silently into the cave mouth.

What reveals itself takes visitors' breaths away: a vast subterranean lake glowing an otherworldly azure hue. Stalactites arched above like celestial sculptures reflect down upon the glassy waters. Soft sunrays filtering through create a dreamlike ambiance that transports visitors to another world.

• Admission to Melissani Cave is $5 per person
• Boat tours of the cave lake run regularly from 9am-5pm and cost $7.50 per person

No trip to Kefalonia is complete without a visit to Assos perched upon its northern tip. Here, stepping stones pave narrow alleys winding past architectural remnants of ancient prosperity.

Strolling these paths, one can almost see merchants from centuries past going about their daily business. Those seeking panoramic coastal vistas need only follow sturdy castle walls to scenic belvederes.

Refreshing thereafter in a seaside cafe, solace is taken in the enduring beauty of Assos, untouched by the hands of time.

• Entry to the archaeological site is included in the $10 site museum ticket
• Parking near the town center is free of charge

Canal D'Amour

Lastly on Lefkada awaits one of Greece's most dramatic natural formations - the fabled Canal D'Amour. Towering limestone cliffs mark the way to the canal's edge, where sapphire waters flow tranquil and deep. Legend says lovers who swim its narrow channel will remain forever bonded.

Whether true or not, all who gaze upon its breathtaking majesty leave feeling profoundly connected to the enduring power of nature's handiwork. Experiences in Greece like this are truly unforgettable.

• No fees for visiting or parking
• Refreshments like water and snacks are available for purchase from vendors near the cliffs

Ascension Health, largest Catholic hospital chain in the U.S., hit by cyberattack, disrupting patient care

Ascension Health, the nation's largest chain of Catholic hospitals, said Thursday it was responding to a cyberattack that was disrupting its operations.

In a p r ess r elease on its website , Ascension said the attack had caused "disruption to clinical operations" as access to some systems had been interrupted.

"Our care teams are trained for these kinds of disruptions and have initiated procedures to ensure patient care delivery continues to be safe and as minimally impacted as possible," it said.

An Ascension spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The company said it had engaged cybersecurity consulting firm Mandiant to assist in the investigation and remediation process, and had notified law enforcement authorities.

A spokesperson for the FBI did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The attack follows one that has caused a weekslong disruption to health insurance giant UnitedHealthcare and its affiliates . While UnitedHealth has restored most operations affected by the event, some still remain offline, according to its website. UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty testified last month that the company had inadequate cybersecurity protocols in place, and that it had paid $22 million in bitcoin to lift the siege of its operations.

According to Becker's Hospital Review, Ascension is the fourth-largest hospital network in the country, with 140 locations in 19 states and Washington, D.C., including major presences in St. Louis and the Chicagoland area.

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

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U.S. to Announce New Tariffs on Chinese Electric Vehicles

The administration could raise tariffs on electric vehicles from China to 100 percent in an attempt to protect American auto manufacturers.

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By Alan Rappeport and Jim Tankersley

Reporting from Washington and New York

The Biden administration is set to announce new tariffs as high as 100 percent on Chinese electric vehicles and additional import taxes on other Chinese goods, including semiconductors, as early as next week, according to people familiar with the matter.

The move comes amid growing concern within the administration that Mr. Biden’s efforts to jump-start domestic manufacturing of clean energy products could be undercut by China , which has been flooding global markets with cheap solar panels, batteries, electric vehicles and other products.

The long-awaited tariffs are the result of a four-year review of the levies that President Donald J. Trump imposed on more than $300 billion of Chinese imports in 2018. Most of the Trump tariffs are expected to remain in place, but Mr. Biden plans to go beyond those by raising levies in areas that the president showered with subsidies in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

That includes Chinese electric vehicles, which currently face a 25 percent tariff. The administration is expected to raise that to as much as 100 percent in order to make it prohibitively expensive to buy a Chinese E.V.

Mr. Biden has previously raised concerns about Chinese electric vehicles, saying that internet-connected Chinese cars and trucks posed risks to national security because their operating systems could send sensitive information to Beijing. He took steps earlier this year to try to block those vehicles from entering the United States.

The president is looking to ratchet up pressure on China and demonstrate his willingness to protect American manufacturing ahead of his face-off against Mr. Trump in the November presidential election.

The fate of the China tariffs has been the subject of intense debate within the White House since Mr. Biden took office, with economic and political advisers often clashing over how to proceed. But this year China has begun ramping up production of the same products — electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels — that the Biden administration has been investing billions of dollars to start producing in the United States. Beijing’s move has re-inflamed trade tensions between the two countries, compelling Mr. Biden to press ahead with more aggressive trade restrictions.

Mr. Trump has said he would escalate his trade war with China if re-elected and said this year that he was considering imposing tariffs of 60 percent or more on Chinese imports. In March, Mr. Trump said he would impose a 100 percent tariff on cars made in Mexico by Chinese companies.

The scale of the Biden administration’s tariffs, which are expected to be applied to Chinese electric vehicles, batteries and solar products, is not clear. The new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles are not expected to apply to traditional gasoline-powered cars that are made in China, according to a person familiar with the plans.

The planned release of the review, which is being conducted by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, was reported earlier by Bloomberg News.

Strategic tariffs are also expected to include new levies on semiconductors, which Mr. Biden sought to boost in the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, a 2022 law that includes grants and other incentives for chip-makers.

Some Democrats, including Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio, have been urging the Biden administration to take more drastic measures to protect the U.S. automobile industry. Last month, Mr. Brown called for Chinese electric vehicles to be barred from the United States, arguing that they pose an “existential threat” to American carmakers, and on Friday he said import duties were insufficient.

“Tariffs are not enough,” Mr. Brown wrote on the social media platform X. “We need to ban Chinese EVs from the US. Period.”

Mr. Biden said last month that he was asking the trade representative, as part of the review, to also raise tariffs on imported steel and aluminum products from China. The president and his aides have accused the Chinese of selling heavy metals at artificially low prices worldwide in order to gobble up market share, to the detriment of American producers.

“My U.S. trade representative is investigating trade practices by the Chinese government regarding steel and aluminum,” Mr. Biden told steelworkers in Pittsburgh, referring to Katherine Tai, who heads the office. “If that investigation confirms these anticompetitive trade practices, then I’m calling on her to consider tripling the tariff rates for both steel imports and aluminum imports from China.”

The president added: “I’m not looking for a fight with China. I’m looking for competition — and fair competition.”

The U.S. solar industry has also been lobbying the Biden administration to impose new tariffs on Chinese imports as an influx of cheap solar panels and components has caused prices in that sector to drop by around 50 percent over the last year. Last month, a group of seven leading solar manufacturers filed trade complaints formally requesting that the Biden administration impose tariffs on solar products being imported to the United States from Southeast Asia, where Chinese companies have relocated their operations to avoid existing tariffs.

“We are hopeful the tariff review is done with an eye toward aligning tariffs with strategic priorities including the continued build out of domestic solar manufacturing,” said Michael Carr, executive director of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America coalition.

The prospect of the United States imposing new China tariffs was criticized in Beijing on Friday. The spokesman for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, said that the Trump administration’s tariffs “severely disrupted normal trade and economic exchanges between China and the U.S.” and argued that they were in violation of the World Trade Organization’s rules.

“Instead of ending those wrong practices, the U.S. continues to politicize trade issues, abuse the so-called review process of Section 301 tariffs and plan tariff hikes,” Mr. Lin said, referring to the legal provision that Washington is using to justify the tariffs. “China will take all necessary measures to defend its rights and interests.”

In 2020, during the Trump administration, the United States and China agreed to a sweeping “Phase 1” trade agreement that allowed each of the two countries to review their bilateral tariffs after four years. That bilateral agreement remains in force, but the United States deferred the outcome of its review when the four-year mark came up in January.

That pact probably gives Washington the latitude to increase tariffs. Beijing never complied with that agreement’s specific targets for Chinese imports of American manufactured goods, initially citing the onset of the pandemic. It later pursued a policy of replacing imports with domestic production.

Greta Peisch, a former general counsel at the U.S. trade representative’s office who helped oversee the trade investigation for the Biden administration, noted that the European Union was also weighing new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, and that the anticipated action by Washington was the result of China’s persistently aggressive trade policies. Without higher tariffs, she said, the U.S. auto sector will not be able to compete with heavily subsidized Chinese electric cars.

“When you look at the impact of China’s longstanding policies on E.V.s, they are producing much more and have a lot more capacity than they can absorb,” Ms. Peisch said. “You really want to go high enough to make sure that you’re counteracting the trend that we’re seeing.”

Keith Bradsher contributed reporting.

Alan Rappeport is an economic policy reporter, based in Washington. He covers the Treasury Department and writes about taxes, trade and fiscal matters. More about Alan Rappeport

Jim Tankersley writes about economic policy at the White House and how it affects the country and the world. He has covered the topic for more than a dozen years in Washington, with a focus on the middle class. More about Jim Tankersley

Things to Do in Elektrogorsk, Russia - Elektrogorsk Attractions

Things to do in elektrogorsk.

• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kontinental