The Ultimate Kefalonia Travel Guide: Planning Your Trip!

In our opinion, Kefalonia is one of the best places to visit in Europe. Boasting turquoise waters, picturesque villages, and pristine beaches, this beautiful island has so much to offer!

Unlike many of the other Greek Islands, Kefalonia is affordable and it offers more of an authentic vibe. We spent a week here exploring everything the island has to offer, and we honestly fell in love.

In this Kefalonia travel guide, we’ll detail everything you need to know. This includes where to stay, the top places to visit, how to get around, and some other tips!

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Where Is Kefalonia?

Kefalonia is one of the Ionian Islands, an island group located in the Ionian Sea. It’s the largest of this island group, with others including Corfu, Ithaca, Paxi, and Zakynthos. These Islands are scattered off the coast of Central Greece and are easily accessible.

What To Know About Kefalonia

To make sure you have the best time on this beautiful island, we’re going to cover plenty of information in this Kefalonia travel guide. Let’s start with a quick overview of the basics!

• Size: 788 sq km (304.249 sq miles)

• Language: Greek is the official language. However, English is spoken in the main tourist areas.

• Currency: Euro (EUR)

• Population: Between 35,000-45,000 people

• Traditional Foods: Tyropithakia, Bifteki, Moussaka, Kreatopita, and Kataifi

Helpful Information For Visiting Kefalonia, Greece

How to get to Kefalonia

The best way to reach Kefalonia is by air. There’s one airport on the island (Cephalonia International Airport – EFL), located approximately 8 km (5 miles) from the capital of Argostoli.

This airport offers international connections to various European countries. Therefore, you can easily get here. Those travelling from the United Kingdom can fly directly from Manchester, Bristol, and London. Otherwise, if there are no direct flights, you can always head to Athens and fly from there!

To find the best flights, we recommend using Skyscanner, which allows you to compare the best flight ticket prices.

It’s also possible to reach Kefalonia by ferry, with ferries leaving from mainland Greece, the Greek Islands, and Italy. Popular routes leave from Zakynthos, Ithaka, and Bari (Italy). Those travelling from Italy can expect the ferry journey to take approximately 18 hours (and there’s only one sailing a week).

How to get around Kefalonia

The island of Kefalonia is relatively easy to get around. The best way to explore the island is by hiring a car, which offers you the most freedom. You also won’t need to rely on public transport.

Hiring a car in Kefalonia is easy as the island has many rental options. These include Hertz, Sixt, Alamo, and Europcar, with the latter being a popular choice. This company has a great reputation and there’s an office at the airport. Alternatively, you can check for affordable deals on Discover Cars (or a similar comparison site).

A smart four-seater car can cost as little as €12 (£10) a day so prices are extremely reasonable.

Those who don’t wish to hire a car can use public transport to get around the island. Kefalonian Buses (KTEL) offers various bus services, including routes from Argotoli, Lixouri, Poros, and Sami. However, you won’t be able to access some of the island’s less-touristy areas this way.

The best time to visit Kefalonia

The best time to visit this island depends on what you’re after. Those looking to sunbathe and get a tan may wish to visit between June and August, which is when Kefalonia is at its hottest.

Temperatures at this time of year can reach highs of 31°C (87°F), sometimes even warmer, with July typically being the hottest month. In the summer months, Kefalonia encounters lows of 21°C (69°F).

If you’re after a quiet experience, then the shoulder season (April-May and September-October) is a better to visit. Temperatures during spring and autumn are still relatively mild, sitting above 20°C (68°F). During this time of year, there are fewer crowds and accommodation prices will generally be much cheaper.

Even in the winter, the climate in Kefalonia is fairly mild, although it can be wet. Also, some accommodations and restaurants may be closed during the winter so just keep that in mind.

The Best Places To Visit In Kefalonia, Greece

1. Myrtos Beach

Visiting Myrtos Beach is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Kefalonia! It’s one of the island’s best beaches and is regularly voted as one of the top beaches in the world.

Boasting dramatic rocky cliffs, turquoise waters, and dazzling white pebbles, this place will blow you away. Famous for its natural beauty and cleanliness, Myrtos Beach is one of the most photographed destinations in Greece.

To get here, you’ll need to drive down a narrow and very windy road. There are plenty of hairpin bends too, so you’ll need to be cautious when driving down! Especially, as buses drive down here during the summer.

2. Melissani Cave

Melissani Cave is one of the most impressive natural wonders on the island. This iconic landmark is also known as Melissani Lake, and it’s approximately a 5-minute drive from the town of Sami.

Melissani Cave is incredibly special, as the lake that sits within the cave has a small opening. At midday, the sunlight shines right through this opening and lights up the water below, offering a magical experience.

To visit the lake, you’ll take a small boat tour into the cave. The tour only lasts for approximately 20 minutes and costs around €7 (£6). You’ll also have a local guide with you.

3. Argostoli

No Kefalonia travel guide would be complete without including the capital of Argostoli. This picturesque town has been the island’s capital since 1757 and is known for its scenic landscape and vibrant atmosphere.

While you’re not admiring the spectacular sea views, you’ll want to explore the town, wander along the harbour, and take photographs from De Bosset Bridge. From here, you can also take a walk around the bay to Saint Theodore Lighthouse. Vallianou Square is another popular spot.

Those looking to relax can take advantage of Argostoli’s many beachside restaurants, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail and delicious local cuisine.

4. Assos Village

Assos Village is one of the most picturesque destinations on the island of Kefalonia. It’s attached to the Frourio Peninsula, which is known for its turquoise waters and rocky limestone coastline.

Only around 100 people live here, giving it a laid-back and very local feel. Along with the village’s brightly coloured houses, crafts shops, and charming restaurants, there are a few attractions in the nearby area. The Venetian Castle of Assos and Assos Beach are two of the area’s highlights.

This village is another great option for those looking to sample the local cuisine, as there are some fantastic waterfront restaurants on offer.

5. Drogarati Caves

There are so many amazing things to do in Kefalonia. Drogarati Caves, located just outside of Sami, is certainly one of the most impressive. These caves are over 150 million years old and are famous for their geological formations, including stalagmites and stalactites.

Drogarati Caves were only discovered 300 years ago when a large earthquake revealed the entrance. Since then, these caves have been popular with scientists and were finally opened to the public in 1963.

At approximately 60 metres (196 feet) deep, this place will blow you away. Not to mention, temperatures rarely drop below 18°C (64.4°F). Opening times are as follows; 9:30 am to 3 pm daily.

6. Mt. Ainos National Park

Mt. Ainos National Park is the county’s only national park to be found on a Greek island. It stretches for over 3,000 hectares and is home to the Ionian Islands’ highest peak, Mount Ainos.

At 1,628 metres (5,341 feet) high, you’ll get spectacular panoramic views of Kefalonia from this mountain. You can hike up the Digaleto – Megas Soros path, which ends at the peak and is considered moderately difficult.

Other popular hiking paths in Mt. Ainos National Park include The Environmental Centre of Ainos hike, The Epano Eza, and The Vlachata. If you’re lucky, you might get to see some of the park’s semi-wild horses as you hike.

7. Antisamos Beach

This Kefalonia travel guide wouldn’t be complete without Antisamos Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. It’s around a 10-minute drive from Sami and is famous for its turquoise waters and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a must-visit.

Those looking to relax should spend an afternoon at this beach. Here, you’ll find various amenities, including sunbeds, water sports facilities, restaurants, and beach bars. In terms of food and beverages, Acron Antisamos is one of the top picks!

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, try out various watersports, or indulge in a cocktail while enjoying the views, there’s something for everyone at Antisamos Beach.

8. Fteri Beach

Fteri Beach is another popular beach on Kefalonia. It offers a more secluded location than others on the island, so is the perfect place to relax. In fact, you can only get here by hiking or via boat as there’s no road access.

If you’re looking to visit Fteri Beach, boats run here daily with tickets costing approximately €15 (£13). Alternatively, you can hike to this beautiful beach from Zola and Atheras village.

Due to Fteri’s location, this beach experiences far fewer crowds compared to others on the island. Therefore, you can expect a peaceful day, taking in the sun and heading out for a swim.

9. Fiskardo

The charming fishing village of Fiskardo is one of the best places to visit on Kefalonia. Boasting colourful houses, a busy harbour with pristine waters, and various traditional Greek restaurants, there’s something for every traveller.

Not only does Fiskardo offer a relaxing vibe but there’s plenty to do. After exploring the village and harbour, you should head to Fiskardo Beach or the Venetian Lighthouse. Other popular sites include the Nautical and Environmental Museum, the Roman Cemetary, and Zavalata Beach.

There are some excellent dining options in Fiskardo too. Some of the most popular eateries include Tassia Restaurant, Elli’s Restaurant, and Apagio.

10. Skala Beach

Finally, we have Skala Beach. This popular beach is located along the island’s southern tip and is famous for its white sandy shores, scenic views, and primarily calm waters. Additionally, it’s a great option for families!

Nature lovers will also want to visit Skala Beach. Occasionally, nesting sea turtles can be spotted on the beach which is an incredible sight. Unfortunately, we didn’t spot any, but there’s always next time!

With plenty of space, various food and drink options, and crystal-clear waters, Skala Beach is the perfect place to kick back and relax. Better yet, you can enjoy some refreshing beverages at a beach bar. What’s not to like?

Planning Your Kefalonia Itinerary

Planning a trip to the Greek island of Kefalonia can sometimes feel overwhelming as there are so many amazing places to visit. In this Kefalonia travel guide, we’re going to outline a quick 7-day itinerary based on our own experiences.

Below is an idea of how you can spend your time:

Day 1: Argostoli

Day 2: Skala + Surrounding Attractions

Day 3: Sami + Surrounding Attractions

Day 4: Fiskardo + Surrounding Attractions

Day 5: Assos + Surrounding Attractions

Day 6: Full-Day Boat Cruise/Day Trip to Another Island

Day 7: Lixouri + Surrounding Attractions

So you don’t rush your trip to Kefalonia, opt for a late flight on day 7 so you have all day to explore.

Where To Stay In Kefalonia, Greece

Deciding where to stay in Kefalonia can be difficult, as there are so many amazing places to choose from. Luckily, there’s something for every budget, ranging from affordable guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

In this Kefalonia travel guide, we’ll take you through some of our accommodation recommendations below:

Skala

• Budget: Zephyros Hotel
• Mid-range: Skala Hotel
• Luxury: Makis Hotel

Assos

• Budget: Pension Gerania
• Mid-range: Linardos Apartments
• Luxury: Kanakis Apartments

Sami

• Budget: Mary’s Studios & Apartment
• Mid-range: Pavlatos Apartments & Studios
• Luxury: Sami Beach Hotel

Argostoli

• Budget: Vivian Villa
• Mid-range: Tourist Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: Kefalonia Grand

Tips For Visiting Kefalonia

Kefalonia is undeniably one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. In this Kefalonia travel guide, we’ll cover some top tips that you should know while planning your trip.

• Those planning to hire a car should know that many of the roads are very narrow and winding. The locals are used to these roads, so will drive fast (and not very carefully). Luckily, Jack’s uncle drove during our visit!

• Skala is one of the best places to stay for first-time visitors. It’s one of Kefalona’s main tourist spots, so is home to plenty of amenities, including restaurants and accommodation. The beach is a big hit too!

• Nature lovers will be happy to hear that sea turtles (loggerhead turtles and green turtles) frequent Kefalonia. Argostoli Harbour is one of the best places to see them although, of course, sightings aren’t guaranteed.

• Kefalonia is famous for its traditional wine-making methods. Because of this, you’ll find some fantastic wineries on the island where you can enjoy a tasting tour, including Gentilini Winery and Sarris Winery.

• Thanks to Kefalonia’s location, you can easily visit the surrounding islands on a day trip. These include the likes of Zakynthos Island (this full-day tour is a popular option) and Ithaca, both of which are worth a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Kefalonia Island, Greece

How many days do you need in Kefalonia?

For the best experience, we’d recommend spending 5-7 days in Kefalonia. This will undoubtedly give you enough time to visit the top attractions, appreciate the local culture, and simply relax.

If you can, try to stay on the island for a week as you’ll have more time to relax and explore. Those planning to island-hop around Greece may have less time, but we’d suggest a minimum of three days.

What is a good budget for Kefalonia?

We’d recommend a minimum budget of £60-80 per person per day. This will be enough for you to visit the local attractions, indulge in local dishes, and stay in an affordable guesthouse (especially if you’re splitting the cost).

However, if you’re after the ultimate relaxing getaway then allowing for a higher budget is a good idea. This will give you more choices when it comes to accommodation and you can enjoy more excursions.

Which part of Kefalonia is the nicest?

An impossible question for sure, as there are so many beautiful places to visit in Kefalonia. Myrtos Beach is certainly one of the most picturesque locations as well as Melissani Cave, both of which are must-visits.

In terms of villages and towns, Assos is one of the most charming destinations on the island, with its turquoise waters and coloured houses. Additionally, there are some fantastic natural wonders, including Drogarati Caves.

Can you island hop from Kefalonia?

Kefalonia is a fantastic destination for those who want to island-hop around Greece. Because of its location, you can easily visit other islands on a day trip from here, including Ithaca and Zakynthos.

There are plenty of onward travel options from Kefalonia too as there are some great ferry routes on offer. From this island, you can travel to Corfu, Paxi, and Lefkada, among others, so there are lots of choices!

Final Thoughts On This Kefalonia Travel Guide

Kefalonia is one of the best places to visit in Greece. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, indulge in Greek cuisine, or appreciate the local culture, this island has something for everyone!

I hope this guide has given you a good idea of where to visit and the best places to stay. We absolutely loved our time here, and we can guarantee that you will too. Without a doubt, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed getaway, no matter your travel preference.

If you have any questions about this Kefalonia travel guide, please contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other European travel guides you may find useful:

• The Ultimate 7-Day Rhodes Itinerary
• The Best Things To Do In Cavtat
• How To Spend One Day In Dubrovnik

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