27 BEST Things To Do In Kefalonia In 2024

Kefalonia (Kefallinia or Cephallonia) is an idyllic Greek island within the Ionian Sea. Identified for its various magnificence and breathtaking seashores, visiting right here seems like dwelling in paradise. It’s the biggest islet within the space, marked by towering mountain peaks, cerulean waters, and historic cities.

It’s well-known each for its wine and laid-back, pleasant really feel. We spent practically two weeks exploring the island, having fun with Myrtos Seaside, consuming at Myrtillo, and watching the yachts pull up in Fiskardo. Even in any case this time, we had a tricky time leaving Kefalonia as we liked it a lot! With a lot to see and do right here, you’ll need to learn up on all the perfect spots for any itinerary with this checklist of the perfect issues to do in Kefalonia, Greece. 

The place is Kefalonia?

Earlier than we dig into the perfect issues to do in Kefalonia, let’s pinpoint the situation! Kefalonia is a big Ionian Island and a well-liked vacation spot for summer time vacationers to Greece. It’s near different islands like Zakynthos, Lefkada, and Ithaca.

Like the opposite Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is blessed with lush forests, dizzying mountains, and dramatic cliff drops that lead straight into the great blue sea.

The primary airport, Kefalonia Worldwide Airport, is situated close to Argostoli and Lassi, and is a small island airport. There are flights to Italy, Athens, the UK, and loads of locations round Europe. It’s additionally only a 1.5 hour ferry trip away from the extra in style island of Zakynthos, making it an ideal addition to a visit there!

Finest Issues to do in Kefalonia

Mount Aenos

Mount Aenos is the tallest mountain on the entire island at over 5,000 toes excessive. There’s a nationwide park round it that provides just a few completely different hikes on round trails all with completely different ranges of issue.

The sweeping panoramas from the highest stretch over the island uninterrupted so far as the attention can see and are nicely price any climb. Black pine and Greek fir forests cowl the aspect.

The summit is known as Mega Soros and it’s simply the most well-liked viewpoint to take pleasure in right here. We like to pack a picnic and spend the day right here absorbing all of the surroundings and sunshine. 

Antisamos Seaside

One among Kefalonia’s largest attracts is its assortment of pristine shores to discover. Antisamos Seaside is definitely a favourite cove on the island, and after visiting it, we discovered it to be top-of-the-line seashores in Greece. Excessive forested hills encompass Antisamos and as an alternative of sand, it’s coated in small white pebbles.

The water right here is crystal clear, making it the proper candidate for some snorkeling amongst calm water. It’s well-known for showing within the acclaimed movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.

There are just a few bars the place you possibly can seize a drink and a chew in addition to a few loungers to hire for final consolation whereas sunbathing. The bar, Acron, permits you to lounge of their loungers free of charge if you purchase one thing!

As you make your option to or from Antisamos Seaside, remember to cease on the viewpoint for a pleasant view and photograph!

Melissani Cave

Melissani Cave stands out as the island’s biggest pure surprise and top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia. Right here you’ll discover a placing azure lake beneath tall cavern partitions. There’s a gap on the prime the place the solar can shine onto the glowing floor, making a dramatic scene.

You may take a guided boat tour for €8 to stand up near the numerous geological marvels inside, like stalactites. It’s greatest to go at noon for the proper photograph ops, and it’s arduous to not need to snap 1,000,000 pics right here. It might probably get busy with different vacationers, leading to an extended line throughout the summer time months, but it surely’s nicely price a brief wait or full boat to expertise this magnificent gem. 

Since we visited Kefalonia in mid-September, we didn’t have to attend in any line and had been the one vacationers in our boat – that’s why I like visiting Greece in September! I used to be anticipating the boat tour to final for awhile, however in actuality, the entire tour across the cave takes lower than 20 minutes. You should buy a mixed ticket for €10 that grants you entry to Drogarati Cave, which is a few 10-minute drive away.

Guide a Kefalonia Tour!

Drogarati Cave

For those who simply visited Melissani Cave, it’s possible you’ll as nicely mix your ticket with Drogarati Cave for just a few additional euro. The Drogarati Cave was first found within the early 1700s after an earthquake made it seen for the primary time. It’s identified for the unusual rock formations yow will discover deep down inside the cavern, comparable to each stalactites and stalagmites, that are shaped over the course of thousands and thousands of years.

The Chamber of Exaltation is the declare to fame of this pure marvel each for its sheer measurement and its spectacular acoustics. It’s additionally a good way to flee the scorching afternoon Greek solar.

Makris Gialos Seaside

Makris Gialos Seaside is most identified for its luxurious consolation, cleanliness, and group. Whereas it lacks among the rugged great thing about different Kefalonia seashores, it makes up for it with handy facilities.

It has a vacationer resort type of vibe and is well accessible. You’ll be capable to take pleasure in scrumptious meals and drinks delivered proper to your solar lounger from any of the refined seaside bars on the golden sandy shore right here.

There’s additionally a variety of water sports activities that you could check out on the crystal-clear seas comparable to kayaking. The calm and heat waves make it superb for swimming as nicely.

Agios Georgios Fort

Set simply Southeast of Argostoli, is the spectacular property often known as Agios Georgios Fort. These romantic ruins had been based by the Byzantines method again within the twelfth century. A lot of the remaining structure is from when it was a Venetian stronghold within the sixteenth century.

It was even the capital of Kefalonia till the mid-1700s. You may discover historic citadels and Medieval church buildings all whereas having fun with beautiful vistas of each the distant mountains and huge sea. 

Petani Seaside

Petani Seaside is an undisturbed slice of paradise alongside the island’s west coast. It provides a extra rugged and actual seaside expertise, full with clear turquoise waters and a pebbly shore. It’s additionally encircled by dramatic limestone cliffs, giving it a distant and secluded setting.

Examine how uneven the surf is earlier than leaping in, the waves can get tremendous large right here. Although on a relaxed day, it’s superb for a refreshing dip. There are just a few solar decks and umbrellas to calm down below right here, in addition to parking areas and restroom amenities. 

Head right here round sundown and have a seafood dinner and drinks at Erasmias Petani, which have tables overlooking the seaside, and serve up scrumptious recent fish.

Myrtos Seaside

One other scenic stretch of shoreline in Kefalonia will be discovered at Myrtos Seaside. Myrtos Seaside is arguably probably the most well-known seaside in Kefalonia and some of the well-known within the Ionians. Heading right here is well top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia. It might look acquainted because it’s some of the photographed spots in all of Greece, although photos can’t totally seize the placing great thing about this seaside.

Myrtos is ready between two towering mountainsides and the shimmering blue of the ocean is mesmerizing. It’s about half a mile lengthy and as an alternative of sand, you’ll discover marbled pebbles. There are solar loungers to hire and relaxation on, or you possibly can park your towel proper on the pebbles. Make sure to cease on the viewpoint up prime earlier than heading right down to the precise seaside for jaw-dropping vistas. 

10 Issues To Know BEFORE Visiting Myrtos Seaside On Kefalonia

Asos

In contrast to some Greek islands within the Cyclades, the Ionians aren’t as blessed with charming idyllic Greek cities. Although there are three predominant cities that vacationers take pleasure in. These are Sami, Fiskardo, and Asos. Asos is correct close to Myrtos Seaside and is nicely price heading to for a half day or longer. It’s situated on the hillsides of a pure harbor and surrounded by vibrant greenery. Solely about 100 inhabitants stay on this tiny borough, but it surely gained’t really feel like that in the summertime, as this small city is one among Kefalonia’s hottest locations to go to.

Image pastel-colored homes that line the waterfront, together with a smattering of cute bars, taverns, and cafes. The views from the highest of the city are beautiful and wandering the winding streets here’s a pretty option to spend a day in Kefalonia. We made our method right here after Myrtos Seaside and spent just a few hours strolling round, petting the cats, and swimming within the calm waters.

For those who can rating lodging in Asos, don’t hesitate. Although it’s a small city, and lodging right here books up quick, so that you’ll should guide nicely upfront.

For those who can rating a room at Chromata Assos Villas Kefalonia, guide instantly!

Day Journey to Ithaca

Ithaca is one other small island that’s solely a brief distance away from the coasts of Kefalonia. It’s straightforward to get an inexpensive ferry from Sami or Fiskardo to take you up near this sea surrounded treasure, making it the proper day journey . Right here there are two peninsulas related solely by an isthmus.

The primary port, Vathy, has smaller boats to hire to discover the cove-filled shoreline. Onshore, you possibly can hike to the highest of a number of of the peaks right here, comparable to Pernarakia or Kathara, and delight in breathtaking panoramas looking over Kefalonia and past. Our favourite city in Ithaka is Kioni, and we extremely advocate visiting because it’s top-of-the-line issues to do in Ithaca. We stayed on Ithaca for 5 days and liked our time. To today Ithaca stays one among our favourite Greek islands. It’s removed from the madding crowds of Zakynthos, Corfu, and Kefalonia too. So, for those who can swing your itinerary to incorporate just a few days in Ithaca, we advocate it.

Ithaca can also be legendary for being the legendary house of Odysseus as nicely. Discuss epic! 

Sami

Talking of Sami, this city is price a go to whether or not you want a ferry or not. It’s situated on the Japanese aspect of the island and is pretty giant in measurement in comparison with among the different villages in Kefalonia.

We like to wander the historic port right here and luxuriate in a leisurely lunch at one of many charming eating places or taverns. The Venetian structure alongside the scenic oceanfront is just marvelous. You may even go to the acropolis set simply behind Sami and study extra in regards to the wealthy historical past of the area. 

Argostoli

Argostoli is the largest city in and the capital of Kefalonia. The harbor is all the time a bustling and picturesque scene, particularly at dawn when the fishing boats are all coming in with their recent catch or at sundown as everybody makes their option to the bars for a glass of Greek wine. The promenade is a fantastic option to take pleasure in a waterfront stroll at any time of day as nicely.

Generally you possibly can even spot sea turtles within the waves right here, and it’s widespread for folks to see them across the harbor! Cine Anny, an open-air cinema that’s a lot enjoyable to catch a flick at, can also be on this metropolis. The Argostoli Archeology Museum additionally makes for an academic and fascinating expertise.

If it’s good to purchase some souvenirs, Argostoli is the perfect place to buy domestically made merchandise, too. 

Spend a Night time in Argostoli

If you’re in search of an evening out at a pleasant restaurant whereas on trip, there are many eating places, bars, and ice cream outlets in Argostoli. Like most issues Greek, they’re open nicely into the wee hours of the night time throughout the summer time. Usually, we might head out for dinner round 9 or 10pm, and perform a little buying or have a gelato cease at one of many cafes after!

Our favourite night in Argostoli was spent at Οίνοψ wine bar restaurant within the heart of city. They serve up upscale Greek meals that provides you a pleasant break from conventional taverna meals. One other good possibility for those who’re uninterested in Greek meals? Sepia Sushi Restaurant! I do know, I do know, sushi on a Greek island? However belief me after I say it held as much as its rave evaluations!

Lease a Boat and Discover the White Rocks

We like to hire a ship in Greece and do it on each island we will. Previously, we’ve rented a ship on Corfu and Paros, and imagine me after I say our boat rental days are all the time our favourite days.

Renting a ship provides a novel and versatile option to discover Kefalonia and its coastlines, whereas offering privateness. The liberty and entry distant areas untouched by giant vacationer crowds is unmatched. And sure, vacationers can hire a ship in Greece below 30 HP with no license. We rented a ship in Argostoli with Argostoli Boat Rent for €140 + gas for the day and explored White Rocks Seaside (solely accessible by boat). The fellows at Argostoli Boat Rent gave us a cooler, Bluetooth audio system, and an exceptionally clear and delightful boat! We couldn’t have requested for a greater day on the water!

Fteri Seaside

Fteri is among the extra wild and unique seashores on Kefalonia. It boasts all of the trademark great thing about the Kefalonia shores: white pebbles, crystalline waters, lush greenery, and limestone peaks.

It’s some of the undisturbed areas on the island, and as such is taken into account probably the most idyllic. Since there’s no precise highway that may entry it, the one methods to get there may be to take a taxi boat from Zola, or you possibly can hike right down to it on this path (put on closed-toed footwear!). As a extra distant seaside, you’ll must carry all your personal provides with you to this one, too.

Nevertheless the hassle you’ll put into reaching Fteri is nicely price it, because it’s actually some of the spectacular seashores in Greece. I’m undecided I’ve seen such blue water, even after visiting over 20 Greek Islands!

You should carry solar safety to Fteri as there may be little or no shade. You’ll additionally need sufficient water in your full day on the seaside.

Fteri Water Taxi 

We didn’t simply go to Fteri Seaside, as an alternative we splurged on a full day boat tour that took us not solely to Fteri Seaside, however to five different seashores and coves within the space too. Fteri Water Taxi runs completely different boat journeys on daily basis throughout the summer time that take guests to not simply Fteri Seaside, however different highlights together with Amidi Seaside, Blue Lagoon, Kamari Seaside, Gianiskari Cave, and Aspros Gialos. They even throw lunch into the combo.

Of our practically two weeks in Kefalonia, our day spent with the Fteri Water Taxi crew was one among our most memorable. We additionally met a whole lot of cool folks on the boat too, which is nice if you’re seeking to meet different vacationers in Kefalonia.

Fiskardo 

Fiskardo is a picture-perfect cove and a historic fishing village in Kefalonia. Out of all of the cities in Kefalonia (together with Asos and Sami), Fiskardo was by far our favourite. It’s the northernmost port on the island and a pleasant spot to look at the boats go out and in. The glassy waterfront is lined with bakeries, cafes, taverns, and artwork outlets. It seems like a visit again in time with most of the unique properties and unbiased shops from even earlier than the notorious 1953 earthquake that nearly leveled all the island. I solely want that we had booked our lodging earlier in order that we might have stayed in Fiskardo for a minimum of just a few days (it was all booked up after we visited in September!)

Be certain to take a look at Foki Seaside close by, it’s a small little bit of shoreline with loads of pure shade, which actually is useful because the solar can get so intense.

We advocate reserving a keep at Emelisse Nature Resort

Paralia Emplisi

Close by to Fiskardo is Paralia Emplisi. It’s a lovely little seaside with calm water. There’s not a lot house to unfold out right here, and the seaside stays fairly busy, however we nonetheless discovered the waters to be among the most calming to swim in.

De Bosset Bridge

De Bosset, also referred to as Deprano, is the longest stone bridge that’s been constructed over the ocean in all the world! It’s nicely price seeing and having fun with a calming stroll alongside as nicely.

It was first constructed within the early 1800s to make villages across the bay extra accessible. Either side boast spectacular views out over the glowing lagoon waters. It’s an particularly in style spot for sundown and there are sometimes sea creatures like turtles that you could see as nicely so preserve your eyes peeled. 

Skala Seaside

Skala is among the longest sandy seashores on the island’s southern finish. It’s identified for having clear blue waters out in entrance and dense inexperienced hills behind. Snorkeling here’s a favourite pastime, and there are many fish to seek out.

Many additionally head out on the open waters to discover hidden ocean caves on a ship tour from this shore. It’s filled with seaside bars and wonderful eateries, so it’s straightforward to spend a complete day right here. 

Skala is among the hottest seashores on the island, not as a result of it’s probably the most lovely however as a result of that is the place all of the resorts are. Kefalonia typically doesn’t have a ton of low-cost tourism like Zakynthos and Corfu, however for those who’re going to seek out low-cost tourism, will probably be at Skala Seaside. It’s nonetheless a seaside in Greece, so it’s removed from ugly, but it surely’s price mentioning for those who plan on reserving lodging in Skala.

Avithos Seaside

Avithos Seaside is a quiet, sandy seaside not removed from the airport. As I choose pebble seashores, it wasn’t my favourite seaside on Kefalonia. Nonetheless we discovered ourselves right here a number of instances due to Avithos Preview restaurant, which dishes up nice seafood with stellar views.

Pessada Seaside

Pessada Seaside isn’t a well-known seaside in Kefalonia, as there are only a few snug locations to sit down. Nevertheless it boasts nice views over an beautiful bay filled with small fishing boats, and the waters are very calm for a swim. It’s additionally proper subsequent to the ferry port that goes to Zakynthos, so for those who’re ready for the ferry, it is a great spot to spend just a few hours.

Vineyard Tour 

Kefalonia is legendary for its wine and top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia is go to a vineyard. You gained’t need to go away this island with out a minimum of making an attempt it. The custom of crafting this grape-based drink is alleged so far all the best way again to the Neolithic period.

Robalo is a white wine with notes of fruit and honey that’s coveted all world wide and made completely on this island. There are a number of vineyards the place you possibly can tour and style this native nectar. Take a look at Orealios, Gentilini, Sclavos, or Haritatos wineries whereas right here. 

Katavothres

The Katavothres, or sinkholes, of Kefalonia, are a geological surprise that may’t ever be totally defined to today! It’s a novel web site not like every other. It’s thought that they’re an advanced collection of underground caves and passageways beneath the island.

The nice and cozy ocean waters rush onto shore by the rocks and easily disappear. They find yourself within the majestic Melissani Lake earlier than returning to again the ocean. The ability of the ocean right here was as soon as used as free electrical energy for mills and the large wheel constructed to harness it may nonetheless be seen. 

Karavomilos

Karavomilos is an astonishing and enchanting physique of water that can also be extraordinarily distinctive. It’s situated within the west a part of Sami and was initially just a bit fishing village.

Immediately, the lake is made up of 99% recent water, regardless of being completely fed by the katavothres. Inside native lore, it’s shrouded in legend and thriller which makes it all of the extra alluring for those who ask us. You may also see so many species of geese dwelling right here! 

Xi Seaside

Xi Seaside is called for its distinctive X form. Its red-colored sand additionally helps it to face out and it’s some of the in style coves on the island for locals and guests alike. The waters are shallower, so households with youthful youngsters will usually go because it’s simpler for them to swim.

White clay cliffs are throughout this scenic shoreline and it’s even conventional to rub the clay in your physique after which rinse it within the sea. It’s stated to be good in your pores and skin and a enjoyable DIY spa expertise!

Journey to Zakynthos

Zakynthos is only a brief ferry trip away from Kefalonia, and there are many issues to do on Zakynthos together with seeing the well-known shipwreck seaside, catching sundown from the Keri Lighthouse, and enjoyable at Xigia Seaside. Really, it might be arduous to only make a day journey to Zakynthos, so we advocate heading there for a minimum of just a few days.

Finest Eating places in Kefalonia

Captain Nikolas (Paliki): Among the best issues to do in Kefalonia is eat at a Conventional Greek Taverna. Captain Nikolas is among the best-reviewed eating places on the island and for good cause!

Olive Lounge Bar & Restaurant: Superb view paired with tantalizing meals. A number of the greatest you will discover on Kefalonia – reservations really helpful.

Esperides Restaurant: Stunning surroundings with a fantastic wine checklist!

Finest Issues to Do in Kefalonia Map

Tips on how to Get Round Kefalonia

One of the best ways to get round Kefalonia is with a rental automobile. The island could be very giant and if you wish to get to all these Kefalonia sights, it’s best to have a automobile. We usually hire a automobile on each Greek island we go to.

Expertise driving in Greece is useful, as I can nearly assure the roads on the Ionian Islands are nothing like driving again the place you might be from. Roads are winding, steep, and infrequently dilapidated. Nonetheless I’d not guide a scooter or 4×4 to get round Kefalonia,. The island is BIG and it’ll take you without end to get round, even with a automobile! You may see our ideas for renting a automobile in Greece right here.

How Many Days Ought to You Spend on Kefalonia?

Personally we spent ten days in Kefalonia, and I actually want we might have stayed longer. We spent seven days on Zakynthos, 14 on Corfu, three on Lefkada, and 5 on Ithaca. Going again in time, I’d have reduce our Zakynthos go to to 5 days and given extra time to Kefalonia.

I simply liked this island! Nevertheless, we’re fortunate and work remotely, and I do know not everybody has months on finish to kill in Greece. With that in thoughts, I believe three days would provide you with a superb grip on the island and allow you to take pleasure in just a few of the perfect issues to do in Kefalonia, however absolutely not the whole lot, and I assure you’ll go away wanting extra time. The island is sort of giant, and it takes a very long time to get from level to level.

I’d advocate a minimum of 5 days on Kefalonia so that you aren’t operating ragged across the island making an attempt to do as a lot as attainable. That provides you sufficient time to calm down whereas nonetheless taking in all of the island’s magnificence!

Is Kefalonia Secure?

As with most Greek Islands, Kefalonia could be very protected. The Greeks are among the most hospitable folks on the earth, and there may be little or no crime on the islands.

Relaxation assured realizing you should have a protected expertise in Kefalonia. In fact, all the time take regular precautions when touring.

Is Kefalonia Price Visiting?

Many declare Kefalonia as probably the most lovely Greek island, and after visiting practically 25 Greek islands within the Ionian, Cyclades, and Saronic teams, I can attest that Kefalonia is one among my favorites. Whereas magnificence is definitely subjective, there is no such thing as a double that Kefalonia is beautiful and completely price visiting. You definitely gained’t remorse including Kefalonia to your Ionian itinerary.

Kefalonia vs Zakynthos?

We visited Zakynthos earlier than Kefalonia and located Zakynthos extremely crowded (even for September, so I can’t think about summer time) and low-cost touristy feeling. Once we took the ferry to Kefalonia and spent only one hour on Kefalonia it was like a breath of recent air. To me, the distinction between Zakynthos and Kefalonia was like night time and day. A lot quieter, much less occasion vibes, no neon indicators, and only a few bus excursions – are you catching my drift?

Athough I attempted arduous to like Zakynthos, it would go down as one among my least favourite Greek Islands. Not as a result of the island isn’t fairly, like all the opposite Ionian Islands Zakynthos is STUNNING. Nevertheless, the rationale I didn’t love Zakynthos was that it was too busy. Once more, we visited in early/mid September, when many different islands like Tinos, Serifos, and Milos are winding down for the summer time. Nevertheless, Zakynthos appeared to be nonetheless going robust.

All that being stated, Zakynthos remains to be price visiting, now we have simply been to many Greek islands and spent practically six months touring round Greece, so we get fairly peculiar with what we search these days. Even with its rising recognition, it stays one of many prettiest Mediterranean Islands.

Each Kefalonia and Zakynthos can compete for pure magnificence – it’s arduous to get sick of the cliffside views, shiny blue water, and scrumptious Greek meals. Past the crowds and vibes, typically I discovered Kefalonia seashores nicer, and the eating places a lot better (and cheaper).

When is the Finest Time to Go to Kefalonia?

The perfect time to go to Kefalonia and the Greek Islands, typically, is in Might and September when the climate is sunny and delicate, however summer time tourism shouldn’t be at its peak. June, July, and August are the busiest months on the Ionian Islands and are when you will discover greater costs and loads of folks.

My favourite time to go to Greece is all the time September, and that’s after we visited Kefalonia. Whereas September remains to be removed from quiet on Kefalonia, it nonetheless meant that we had quieter seashores, and crowd-free experiences at Melissani Cave and on our Fteri Water Boat day journey.

In October, issues will begin to wind down for the season, and by November, many eating places and companies will shut till April, when it’s excessive season once more.

When is the Finest Time To Go to Greece?

The place to Keep on Kefalonia

If you’re visiting Kefalonia between June and September, I can’t stress sufficient how essential it’s to guide your lodging upfront. Particularly if you wish to steer clear of Argostoli and would favor to remain within the smaller cities like Asos and Fiskardo. These are small cities, and there may be not sufficient lodging to go round, so please guide forward.

As a result of we booked final minute we stayed in Argostoli, and in a small Airbnb close to Pessada, which had been each nice, but when I had identified any higher, I’d have chosen to remain in Fiskardo. Although, by staying in Argostoli, you might be all the time near the island’s greatest eating places, bars, and outlets!

Tips on how to Get Across the Greek Islands

Kefalonia Worldwide Airport is one of the best ways to entry the island. It’s nicely related to many main locations round Europe, like Vienna and Berlin.

It’s additionally attainable to attach Kefalonia through ferry to the opposite Ionian Islands like Corfu, Zakynthos, and Ithaki. There’s additionally a semi-regular service to Bari (Italy). We advocate checking schedules on Ferry Hopper.

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