Last Updated on November 8, 2024
Kefalonia is an under-visited Ionian island brimming with pure wonders, from underground lakes and caves to vineyards. Here’s our full information to Kefalonia, Greece.
Often flying underneath the radar, Kefalonia is likely one of the most pristine Greek islands we’ve visited. It’s a spot the place time slows down, the sunsets are so ethereal, and the turquoise waters look too good to be true. While this Greek island is legendary for dramatic cliffside seashores and jaw-dropping views, it’s additionally the right place to lose your sense of time.
We stumbled upon this hidden paradise whereas island-hopping throughout Greece final summer time. After experiencing the crowded and touristy Mykonos and Santorini, we would have liked a spot to actually relax and decelerate; Kefalonia turned out to be a superb escape. In this information, we’re going to share with you our expertise on this lovely Greek island that will help you plan your journey.
Kefalonia Travel Guide
An Overview of Kefalonia, Greece
Also often called Cephalonia or Kefallinia, Kefalonia is the most important and maybe probably the most hanging of the Ionian islands in western Greece. Located simply 30 miles off the coast of mainland Greece within the Ionian Sea, this lovely island covers roughly 300 sq. miles (781 sq. kilometers). It has a inhabitants of round 35,000 individuals.
Kefalonia is a part of the Ionian archipelago, which incorporates different gems like Corfu, Ithaca, Paxi, and Zakynthos. Known for its rugged landscapes and dramatic cliffs, Kefalonia is a paradise of beautiful seashores and unbelievably clear turquoise waters. Whether you’re trying to dive deep into the Greek tradition or get pleasure from your villa holidays in Kefalonia, it’s a particular island that can seize your coronary heart.
When to Got to Kefalonia
When planning a visit to Kefalonia, timing is every thing! The greatest time to go to Kefalonia is dependent upon the expertise you’re after.
Summer Season
June via August is the excessive season, with highs as much as 31°C (87°F) and July being the most well liked month. If seaside days are your precedence, plan your go to between June and October. These months convey the warmest sea temperatures, good for swimming and snorkeling.
If you’re hoping to dive into Kefalonia’s wealthy tradition, August is the month to go. You’ll have the ability to attend vibrant festivals just like the Robola Wine Festival which convey native traditions to life.
Shoulder Season
For fewer crowds and decrease costs, plan your journey within the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. These months additionally provide a laid-back vibe and cooler, comfy temperatures. You’ll get pleasure from daytime highs round 84°F (29°C) and pleasantly cool evenings.
However, temperatures at night time can dip to 54°F (12°C). So, be sure that to pack a lightweight jacket or sweater to your night time adventures. May and early October are additionally supreme for excursions, letting you discover the island’s beautiful surroundings with out the extraordinary summer time warmth.
Winter Season
Winters in Kefalonia are delicate however moist, with temperatures reaching highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. It’s additionally value noting that many lodging and eating places shut for the season, notably vacationer spots like Lassi, Skala, and Sami. However, Lixouri and Fiskardo are open all 12 months and are great alternate options.
How Much Time in Kefalonia?
We visited Kefalonia after our 7-day crusing journey throughout Greece. We spent 3 nights right here and it was simply the correct quantity of time to discover and loosen up a bit. However, Kefalonia is likely one of the largest Greek islands and also you’ll want between 5-6 days to totally expertise all there’s to see right here.
How to Get to Kefalonia
There are primarily two methods to get to Kefalonia. You can fly there or take the ferry. Flying is the quickest technique to get to the island. But if you happen to’re the kind that loves journey then the ferry is a superb choice.
By Air
Getting to the beautiful island of Kefalonia is easier than you may count on. The island has its personal airport, Anna Pollatou (EFL) which caters to each home and worldwide flights. Different airways like easyJet, Jet2, Vueling, and TUI all provide frequent home routes at inexpensive costs.
If you’re touring from the U.S., you’ll seemingly catch a connecting flight to get to Kefalonia. Many of those airways fly via main European cities like London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, and Athens. For occasion, flights from New York to Kefalonia through Paris begin as little as $971 relying in your journey dates.
Search for Flights right here!
By Ferry
Getting to Kefalonia by ferry is a journey as scenic because the vacation spot itself. If you’re coming from mainland Greece, the preferred route is from Killini within the Peloponnese to Poros on Kefalonia. Many ferries function this route 3-4 occasions each day and the journey takes about 1 hour and Half-hour.
In the excessive season, there’s an extra each day ferry from Killini on to Argostoli, Kefalonia’s charming capital. Another mainland choice is the ferry from Patras in northern Peloponnese to Sami, a Kefalonian port city. This ferry even continues to the close by island of Ithaca.
If you’re coming from Corfu we advocate you first ferry to Lefkada, then catch a connection to Kefalonia. We did this journey and it was an exceptionally breathtaking expertise. Lefkada is an intimate expertise that can depart you craving for extra.
How to Get Around Kefalonia Island
There are a number of methods to get round Kefalonia and these embrace; bus, ferry, taxi, or rental automobile. What you select solely is dependent upon your journey way of life and what expertise you search on the gorgeous island. Let’s take a look at every intimately;
By Bus
Getting round Kefalonia by bus is each straightforward on the pockets and surprisingly easy. The service is run by KTEL buses, the island’s public transportation system. These buses run between totally different cities throughout the island. The important bus station is situated in Argostoli.
But there are smaller stations in Sami, Poros, and Lixouri. Routes are common, and through the excessive season, much more buses are added to accommodate the inflow of vacationers. If you’re heading from Argostoli to Lixouri, count on to pay no less than $6 for a ticket. You should purchase these on the ticket workplace or immediately from the bus driver.
By Taxi
Taxis are one other dependable means to get across the island. However, they aren’t as plentiful as on different Greek islands. So, you may wrestle to seek out one in smaller cities like Lixouri and Fiskardo. But they’re an excellent choice for getting round Argostoli between points of interest and eating places.
Fares range relying on the vacation spot: a ten km journey from the airport to Argostoli will value round $22–28. You’ll pay an identical fare for an 8 km journey from the airport to Lassi. If you’re planning a scenic 60 km journey to Fiskardo, be ready for the next fare of about $92–97.
By Ferry
Getting round Kefalonia by ferry is simply as handy as taking the bus or taxi. Ferries sometimes journey from the island’s capital, Argostoli, to small cities like Lixouri. An everyday ferry service shuttles passengers backwards and forwards, with every crossing taking simply between 20-Half-hour.
It’s a a lot shorter and extra picturesque journey than the 35-kilometer drive between the 2 cities. The ferry can also be fairly inexpensive charging round $3 for adults, with children paying round $1.5. If you’re bringing a automobile alongside, you’re going to get a automobile ticket for simply $6.5.
Car Rental
If you need to journey in your phrases and skip the humdrum of public buses then renting a automobile is your greatest guess. This approach you will get across the island simply and likewise get to hard-to-reach areas with none points. Driving in Kefalonia is usually a relaxed expertise, with the island’s laid-back tempo extending to its roads.
However, from mid-July via August, the island turns into busier as Greek holidaymakers flock from the mainland. During this peak interval, the roads can get a bit extra crowded, however so long as you drive defensively and waft, you’ll be simply effective. For automobile leases, we at all times use Discover Cars, as they persistently provide the perfect charges and customer support, with leases usually ranging from as little as $9 per day.
Search for automobile leases in Kefalonia right here!
Things to Do in Kefalonia Greece
1. Visit Myrtos Beach
Myrtos Beach is a surprising, crescent-shaped seaside situated in Pylaros on the northwest coast of Kefalonia. It’s some of the lovely seashores in Greece. Its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine white pebble shoreline make it a staple on each Kefalonia journey information.
The seaside provides loads of alternatives for rest and journey, with sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling being fashionable actions. For these looking for a thrill, the encompassing cliffs present a superb backdrop for cliff leaping. You may lease seaside chairs and umbrellas for round $8 per day. This price usually contains two beds and an umbrella.
For an unforgettable sundown expertise, go to the point of view simply north of the seaside. The sight of the golden night solar because it kisses the seaside and the ocean is one to behold. To attain the seaside, you’ll drive down a slim, winding street that has a number of hairpin bends. The journey is fairly harmful, so warning is critical—particularly with buses navigating the route in the summertime months. The greatest technique to go to Myrtos Beach, if you happen to don’t have your personal transportation, is by reserving a guided street journey. Not solely will you get to expertise the fantastic thing about Myrtos Beach, however you’ll even have the possibility to discover the charming villages of Assos and Fiskardo alongside the way in which.
2. Check Out Melissani and Drogarati Caves
Melissani Cave is considered one of Greece’s most spectacular pure wonders and a staple on most Kefalonia itineraries. It is {a partially} collapsed underground cave that homes the beautiful underground Melissani Lake. The cave is simply a 5-minute drive from the city of Sami.
The lake sits beneath a small opening within the cave’s roof, permitting daylight to gentle up the crystal-clear water in an virtually mystical show. Another spectacular pure marvel to discover whereas in Kefalonia is the Drogarati Caves. These caves are over 150 million years previous and are well-known for his or her beautiful geological formations like stalagmites and stalactites.
The caves go roughly 60 meters (196 toes) deep and provide a jaw-dropping expertise. The temperatures right here hardly ever drop under 18°C (64.4°F), making them a cushty go to year-round. The Drogarati Caves have been found solely 300 years in the past when a big earthquake opened up their entrance. But they have been solely opened to the general public in 1963.
The caves are open each day from 9:30 am to three pm however we advocate you be a part of this half-day guided tour for a seamless expertise. Accompanied by a neighborhood information, you’ll glide via the Melissani Cave, marveling on the vibrant blue water. You’ll then later enterprise to see the stalagmites and stalactites within the Drogarati Caves. The complete expertise seems like getting into one other world—one crammed with pure magnificence and a way of marvel.
3. Stroll Through Argostoli
This picturesque city has been the island’s capital since 1757 and is thought for its beautiful sea views and vibrant environment. Take time and discover the gorgeous city, notably alongside the harbor. Make positive to take a look at the long-lasting Saint Theodore Lighthouse and Vallianou Square. For foodies, the beachside eating places provide refreshing cocktails and scrumptious native delicacies that shouldn’t be missed.
Though Kefalonia isn’t notably recognized for its nightlife, Argostoli is a comfy spot to spend the night. The city’s important sq., Lithostroto, is the place each locals and vacationers collect to finish the day. There are loads of bars and cafes with totally different vibes right here. So, you’ll seemingly discover one which meets your vibe.
To really uncover the appeal of this lovely city, contemplate becoming a member of the Argostoli 3-Hour Walking Tour. Led by knowledgeable information, you’ll achieve fascinating insights into Kefalonia, its capital Argostoli, and all of the city’s highlights—a far richer expertise than exploring by yourself.
4. Check Out the Koutavos Lagoon
Located northeast of Argostoli, the Koutavos Lagoon is an enormous and serene wetland that spans 6.5 km in size and covers 1300 acres. It’s oval-shaped and bordered by the stone Devossetos Bridge (De Bosset). Named after the traditional phrase “kottavos” which implies bowl, the lagoon is a haven for a wide range of natural world, particularly birds.
As you stroll alongside the plush shoreline, you’ll seemingly spot swans, geese, gulls, and lots of different hen species. For households, a ship journey across the lagoon is a must-do exercise. At $32 for 45 minutes, it’s a pleasant approach to soak up the beautiful surroundings. You’ll additionally seemingly encounter native fishermen who run fishing boats on the lagoon. Another nice choice is the Highlights of Kefalonia personal tour, the place you’ll have the possibility to get pleasure from a 20-minute picture cease on the picturesque Koutavos Lagoon.
5. Visit Assos Village
Assos Village is likely one of the most picturesque locations in Kefalonia, good for many who need intimate experiences on the island. It’s situated on the slim Frourio Peninsula on the western coast of Kefalonia. The village is thought for its charming harbor, slim streets, and conventional homes.
Assos provides the right setting for a day stroll via a quaint village the place solely round 100 individuals reside, giving it an genuine, native expertise. While right here, you’ll discover vibrantly coloured homes, craft retailers, and welcoming eating places. Also, be sure that to take a look at close by points of interest just like the Venetian Castle of Assos and Assos Beach.
If you’d wish to get to know the village of Assos higher, this guided island tour of Assos and Fiskardo is ideal for you. You’ll have 1.5 hours to discover Assos, stroll via its charming streets, and admire the colourful homes that give the village its distinctive character.
6. Hike on Mt. Ainos
Hiking up Mount Ainos is an journey that rewards you with unforgettable, sweeping views of Kefalonia. Mt. Ainos is the very best level at 1,628 meters (5,341 toes) within the Ionian Sea. It’s discovered inside Mount Ainos National Park—the one nationwide park on a Greek island.
This hike provides a novel alternative to discover over 3,000 hectares of pristine pure magnificence. To get to the trailhead, drive as much as the parking space. It’s marked by a big radio tower on Google Maps. Once there, comply with the gravel street down till you see an indication directing you as much as the appropriate. This will lead you alongside the Digaleto–Megas Soros path which makes for a reasonably difficult however achievable hike.
On this path, you may even spot the park’s semi-wild horses grazing alongside the paths. Other climbing trails within the park embrace; The Environmental Centre of Ainos hike, Epano Eza, and Vlachata. These are additionally endearing however the Digaleto–Megas Soros path is a extra breathtaking and genuine expertise that’s properly well worth the climb.
7. Laze on Antisamos Beach
Nearly as well-known as Myrtos, Antisamos Beach is a superb various within the busy summer time season. It’s situated on Kefalonia’s japanese coast and is thought for its crystalline waters and jaw-dropping views. To get there, you’ll drive north from Sami for round 10 minutes.
It’s simply reachable by automobile, bus, and even on foot if you happen to’re feeling adventurous. Here, every thing you want for an ideal seaside day is laid out earlier than you. There are solar loungers, umbrellas, and a wide range of seaside bars and eating places to make sure you gained’t need to carry a finger to get pleasure from your self.
There are additionally showers and altering rooms to your comfort after a swim within the sea. For foodies, a visit to Acron Antisamos must be on the playing cards. It’s situated on the seaside and you’ll savor scrumptious bites whereas having fun with the breeze.
8. Check Out Fiskardo
Our journey to Fiskardo was one of many highlights of our time in Kefalonia. The quaint fishing village is thought for its vibrant and colourful homes in addition to a bustling harbor. Fiskardo additionally has conventional tavernas, quaint boutiques, and an inviting ambiance that seems like stepping again in time.
Start your journey with a go to to the Nautical and Environmental Museum, the place you possibly can be taught in regards to the area’s maritime historical past. Also, be sure that to go to the Roman Cemetery for an enchanting glimpse into the island’s historical previous.
For seaside bums, Fiskardo and Zavalata seashores are good for a soothing day on the delicate powdery sands. Near Fiskardo Beach, there’s a Venetian Lighthouse with beautiful views of the Ionian Sea. It’s the right background for snaps to your socials. For a really unforgettable expertise, I like to recommend the Full-Day Fiskardo Island Guided Tour from Kefalonia. This 8-hour journey offers you loads of time to totally discover the cosmopolitan port and charming village of Fiskardo, with ample alternative to wander its scenic streets and soak in its distinctive environment.
9. Take a Day Trip to Ithaca
If you’re in Kefalonia and itching for a day journey, Ithaca is the right escape. Just off Kefalonia’s northeast coast, Ithaca is a small island with an unspoiled, laid-back vibe that’s a refreshing change of tempo. To get there, hop on a ferry from the city of Sami on Kefalonia’s east coast.
The ferry journey takes about an hour and provides beautiful views which may make you marvel if you happen to’ve stepped right into a postcard. Once on Ithaca, you’re free to wander its charming villages, dip into crystal-clear seashores, and soak within the island’s historical historical past.
If you’d fairly depart the logistics to another person, we advocate you are taking this full-day guided tour to maximise your time. On this tour, you’ll go to the capital of the island, Vathy. You’ll additionally attain the very best level of the island at Kathara Monastery.
10. Go Wine Tasting in Omala
The Greeks know their wine and wine-tasting adventures in Kefalonia usually result in the small city of Omala. While Kefalonian wines might not be as well-known as these from different Greek islands, they’re undoubtedly well worth the journey. On our journey, we went to Orealios Gaea, considered one of Kefalonia’s most famed wineries.
This vineyard is legendary for producing Robola, a novel white wine hailed as among the best in Greece. We received to be taught in regards to the meticulous course of of making Robola, from vine to bottle. Afterward, we tasted their different effective wines, savoring every sip of the Kefalonian terroir.
If your journey falls in August then be sure that to attend the Robola Wine Festival. It’s held through the third week of August. This annual occasion is a energetic tribute to Kefalonia’s beloved Robola wine, a crisp, refreshing white produced from grapes grown at excessive altitudes on the island.
Where to Stay in Kefalonia
Kefalonia has no scarcity of gorgeous inns, villas and residences for lease. From the charming village of Assos to the bustling city of Argostoli, every space provides its personal distinctive appeal. For seaside lovers, Lourdas and Skala provide quick access to among the island’s greatest sandy stretches. Here are a few of our suggestions:
Budget: Kalokeri Apartments
Perched gracefully above the charming Fiskardo, the Kalokeri Apartments provide a tranquil retreat with unmatched views of the Ionian panorama. Guests are handled to a sweeping panorama that stretches from Lefkada’s white peaks to the plush hills of Epiros. The Kalokeri Apartments maximize these vistas with thoughtfully designed lodging. Check out the charges right here.
Mid-range: Cavos Inn
This family-run pension provides an genuine and heat Greek welcome that’s as fascinating as its views over the Lixouri peninsula. Each room at Cavos Inn, whether or not twin or double, is tastefully furnished with gentle materials and distinct types. All rooms characteristic en-suite services and a non-public balcony or patio. Check out the charges right here.
Luxury: Waterfront Apartments
Housed in a historic constructing steeped in two centuries of household legacy, this keep has a novel character. The ethereal, cool residences are perfect for the summer time. They characteristic a spacious residing space full with two sofa-beds and an open kitchenette for straightforward residing. Each house’s balcony, outfitted with tables and chairs, provides a peaceable vantage level to observe the bustling harbour life under. Check out the charges right here.
Where to Eat in Kefalonia
Unlike the idea and effective eating scene in Santorini or Mykonos, Kefalonia’s appeal lies in its family-run eating places. These provide genuine, home-cooked meals in a heat, welcoming environment. However, if you happen to’re planning to dine at among the island’s greatest spots, it’s sensible to e book upfront.
In the height seasons, getting a desk at these fashionable meals spots might be irritating if you happen to don’t have a reservation. I attempted to wing it and take a spontaneous strategy to dinner, but it surely didn’t fairly go as deliberate. Here are some suggestions that you simply’ll completely cherish;
Karnagio Taverna, Sami
This family-run taverna is situated actually on the water and their tables are proper within the sand. Their menu options actual Greek meals at its most interesting. However, additionally they serve seafood and have vegan choices. I extremely advocate attempting the recent fish, paired with skordalia (a tangy garlic dip), dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves), and saganaki (crispy fried cheese). Check out the opinions right here.
Kamaroules Taverna, Lassi
Dining at Kamaroules Taverna in Lassi was an unforgettable expertise – a lot in order that we visited twice throughout our keep in Kefalonia! This family-run gem has a handwritten menu and a really small, devoted workers, which implies you might need to attend a bit to position your order. But don’t fear – the breathtaking sundown view over the ocean will greater than make up for the wait.
The costs listed below are extremely affordable for the beneficiant parts and distinctive high quality of meals. I like to recommend you attempt their Povera Kefalonian appetizer. It comes with an assortment of cheeses, roasted tomatoes, peppers, and capers piled on prime of recent bread. Check out the opinions right here.
Melograno, Argostoli
Melograno is a reasonably new restaurant in Argostoli that brings a classy and upscale vibe to the city sq.. While they’re nonetheless understanding some kinks with service, the trendy environment and prime location make it a standout selection. The menu provides some scrumptious choices, and I extremely advocate the Greek salad and lobster pasta for a really satisfying meal. Check out the opinions right here.
Ladokolla, Argostoli
For an genuine eating expertise in Argostoli, Ladokolla provides among the greatest grilled meals in a relaxed sit-down setting. Located simply off the principle plateia, this charming spot serves its dishes on greaseproof paper. The paper is thought regionally as “ladokolla” therefore the identify of the restaurant. With out of doors tables overlooking the energetic important sq., you possibly can get pleasure from each the nice surroundings and completely grilled dishes in a single sitting. Check out the opinions right here.
Cost of Travel in Kefalonia
On common, count on to spend round $200 per particular person per day. This covers meals, drinks, lodging, transfers, and purchases. Also, your basic expenditure might be decided by your tastes or most well-liked experiences. For occasion, a tasting menu at Terre Mouikis in Argostoli is round €70 per particular person.
If you’re planning to make use of taxis, a journey from the airport to Argostoli (about 10 km) will usually value between $22 and $28. You may additionally go for a automobile rental. Most of those provide costs as little as $9 per day. Check out Discover Cars for automobile choices. Alternatively, utilizing the general public bus system is probably the most budget-friendly choice with a one-way ticket from Argostoli to Lixouri costing simply $6.
To get monetary savings on lodging, e book your journey early to safe the perfect costs and choices. Also, staying exterior of main cities like Argostoli can cut back prices, as lodging in these areas are sometimes extra inexpensive and nonetheless provide beautiful views.
Why Visit Kefalonia Greece
Kefalonia is a novel escape from Greek vacationer traps like Mykonos and Santorini. With beautiful seashores like Myrtos and Antisamos, you’ll be immersed in crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffside views that look straight out of a postcard. Beyond the seashores, the island provides hidden spots like the magical Melissani Lake and the awe-inspiring Drogarati Cave, the place pure wonders await at each flip.
Do you may have any questions on the way to go to Kefalonia? Leave your questions within the feedback area under and I’ll do my greatest to reply them! Here are different articles associated to Greece:
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