Kefalonia Greece: Everything you need to know

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece, located in the Ionian Sea off the western coast of mainland Greece. It lies south of Lefkada and northeast of Zakynthos, with its capital Argostoli situated on the west coast. Kefalonia is famous worldwide as the setting of Louis de Bernières’ novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and is home to some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Greece.

With its extraordinary combination of turquoise waters, white-pebble beaches, dramatic limestone mountains, underground caves, and lush forests of black fir, Kefalonia, Greece, consistently exceeds expectations. It is the Ionians’ crown jewel, and once you visit, you’ll understand why Odysseus himself was rumored to have called it home.

General Information

• Kefalonia is the 6th-largest island in Greece and the largest of the Eptanisa conglomeration.

• It is said to be the most likely homeland of Odysseus, rather than Ithaca.

• Kefalonia took its name from Kefalos, who in ancient times was the king of the island.

• The capital of the island is Argostoli, with the larger towns of Lixouri, Sami, Fiskardo, and Poros.

• It has many influences from its various conquerors, mainly from the Venetians.

• On some beaches in Kefalonia, loggerhead turtles choose to lay their eggs. Also, the rare monk seals swim between Kefalonia and Ithaca.

• The Ainos mountain range stretches across the island, with the highest peak, Mega Soros, at an altitude of 1628 meters; it is the only national park on a Greek island. In the mountain range, the rare black fir grows, its black leaves lending a distinctive shade to the mountain.

• In 1953, the island was hit by major earthquakes that leveled several settlements throughout the island.

How to get to Kefalonia, Greece

By Air (fastest): Direct flights from Athens to Kefalonia Airport (EFL) take around 50 minutes. During peak season (May–October), many European cities have direct charter and scheduled flights. Compare prices on Skyscanner.

By Ferry from Athens/mainland:

• Kyllini → Poros (Kefalonia): ~2 hours — most common mainland route
• Patras → Sami: ~3 hours — good option if driving from Athens
• Astakos → Sami: direct connection

Book all ferry routes on Ferryscanner.

Transportation

Car: Given the island’s size and distances, the best way to travel around is by road. The road network in Kefalonia is well mapped, and it will be easy for you to find what you need using navigation apps. However, in many parts of the island, the roads are narrow, with sharp turns, and require close attention. Some remote beaches, in particular, can only be accessed by gravel roads with a very narrow reverse upon departure.

Rent on arrival at the airport or in Argostoli via Discovercars.com.

KTEL: For those who visit the island without their own means of transport, you can use the KTEL buses on the island. The main station is located in Argostoli, but there are also stations in Sami, Lixouri, and Poros. Bus routes cover most of the island, with several stops on each route. Itineraries are frequent, and summer is even more frequent. For more information, please contact the following telephone numbers: Central Bus Station of Argostoli: 2671022281, 2671022276; KTEL Station of Sami: 2674022024; KTEL Station of Poros: 2674072284; KTEL Station of Lixouri: 2671093200.

Taxi: For more autonomy, you can travel by taxi on the island. You will find many taxi ranks in all cities. There is also a Radiotaxi association, as well as other private companies that provide transportation for visitors with their own cars.

Boat: As an alternative to the road network, you can move from Argostoli to Lixouri, the two largest cities of the island, by ferry boat. The road is 34 km long, while the sea journey takes about half an hour, thus facilitating travel from one place to another.

Car/motorbike rental: An alternative for those who do not want to bring their own transport to the island is to rent one. You will easily find a place to rent the car or motorbike you prefer, and prices vary depending on your preferences.

Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Myrtos

This is the island’s most famous (world-renowned) beach and the most photographed. It is ranked among the best beaches not only in Greece, but also internationally and has received many awards, including the “Blue Medal”. This is a huge beach with very fine white pebbles. The waters are a deep blue-green and magnificently clear. It is surrounded by cliffs and wild rocks with lush vegetation.

In Myrtos, you’ll find sets of sunbeds and umbrellas and a canteen, where you can have your coffee and snack. There are no trees that offer natural shade, so we suggest you get the bare essentials. Access by car is easy, and there is parking available.

The special feature of Myrtos is its unforgettable sunset. The beach’s location on the west side of the island and its westward-facing orientation allow you to see the sun sink into the sea. Unfortunately, we did not experience the sunset at Myrtos, as we visited the beach early in the morning, when absolute calm and serenity prevailed.

Bonus Tip: As you descend the winding path to the beach, you will marvel at the beautiful scenery. The surroundings are so unique that you will want to stop and take many photos.

Petani

Another fantastic beach in Kefalonia; many even compare it to Myrtos. It is a beach with turquoise, crystal clear waters, fine pebbles, and green vegetation. Arriving at the beach, from the downhill winding road, you will find parking space, as well as taverns and a coffee bar. The beach has been awarded a blue flag, with sunbeds and umbrellas (7 € per set) and a shower. There is also enough free space for those who do not want such comforts and simply wish to enjoy this beach in its most natural state.

Apart from the beach’s facilities, the landscape you’ll see and the unique natural environment will enchant you. At both ends of the beach, two cliffs rise, and on the left side, large rocks in the sea add a special touch to the beauty.

 The special feature of Petani is the water gushing from springs that descend from the mountaintop and flow into the sea. As a result, there are changes in the water’s temperature and color when salty and fresh water meet.

Xi

A special beach in the southern part of Kefalonia. From above, the bay looks like the letter “X” (hence the name). What attracts visitors is its sandy beach, with a deep, tile-like color and a clay composition. Here, one can enjoy natural spa treatment, since this sand cleanses and tightens the skin.

The beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas. It has a coffee bar and a tavern. You will also find water sports such as jet skiing, water skiing, and parachuting.

Platia Ammos

A beach so beautiful, yet so dangerous. The road to the beach, after a point, turns into a narrow gravel path. To reach the beach, you need to make a descent of 400 steps, part of which have been destroyed by landslides. Access is therefore easier by boat.

However, the view of the beach in combination with the clear blue waters will astound you. Of course, the beach is disorganized, thus giving it a pristine beauty and tranquility.

PERSONAL FACT: We visited Platia Ammos on our first day in Kefalonia. Since the view was awesome, Stratos wanted to fly his drone, but it got stuck in mid-air and lost signal. In the end, we were lucky because the home point had locked, and as soon as the battery ran out, it started returning to its original point on its own, so we didn’t lose it!!

Andisamos

A long and wide pebble beach with crystal clear waters. For some, it is the most cosmopolitan beach, with 4 beach bars, lots of sunbeds and umbrellas, and ample parking. Here you will also find water sports and jet skiing.

But apart from these comforts, this pebble beach has enough space for those who do not want its organized part. There are several trees on the right side of the beach that provide natural shade and tranquility. Ithaca can be seen from Antisamo at a very close distance.

Another detail about Antisamos is that it was the setting for some of the most important scenes of the Hollywood production “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”, shot in Kefalonia in the summer of 2000.

Scala

One of the largest beaches in Kefalonia, Skala Beach stretches for more than five kilometers in the homonymous village, at the southeast point of the island. The beach is sandy, with coarse white sand, and the waters are crystal-clear blue.

The homonymous seaside village has many large hotel units, cafes, and restaurants. The beach is busy as it is preferred by those who live here, but it is so big that it will never get crowded. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available in many organized locations, but there is plenty of space for those who prefer to enjoy the beach in its pristine state.

Kounopetra

It is a small cove with a sandy beach, ideal for young children. It is one of the most traditional anchorages of Kefalonia. The beach has shallow waters and red sand, like Xi’s, and you will also find clay deposits, which allow you to enjoy a natural spa. It got its name from a strange geological phenomenon, a large rock in the moving sea. To the naked eye, there is a slow but unstoppable movement, while anyone who stands up feels the pulsating current.

Pessada

A small, beautiful, and quiet beach. The parking lot is very small, and from there you go down a few steps to a short path through the trees. The beach is sandy, with some pebbly spots, and its waters reflect the surrounding greenery. You will find shade on some rocks at certain times of the day, but since it is not organized, we suggest you bring towels, water, and snacks.

Dafnoudi

To reach Dafnoudi, you will need to walk about 600 meters along a beautiful green path. Arriving at the beach, you will see its crystal clear waters, and you will find shade in one of the trees that surround it. If you are lucky, you will see the monachus seals, which are fond of the cave formed at the edge of the beach to rest or even give birth to their young.

Emblisi

A closed bay with turquoise waters, white pebbles, and trees that reach the sea. Around the beach, there are rocks with a flat surface where you can spread your towel and enjoy your sunbathing. Before you reach the beach, you will find the Rotsis bakery, where you can have your coffee and breakfast and enjoy it on the beach. There is a large parking lot, and the beach is disorganized; umbrellas and sunbeds are unavailable, and you have to bring everything you need. Also in Emblysi, you will see signs of a hiking trail to Kimilia beach (30 ′, 1.4 km).

Κimilia

It is a small heavenly beach on the northwestern tip of Kefalonia. To reach Kimilia, you will need to walk a path for about 15 minutes. A route so beautiful in green nature, full of cypress and olive trees. The landscape is so impressive, as the waters are turquoise and crystal clear, and the trees reach all the way to the sea, offering shade. You will also see signs for pedestrian paths to the surrounding beaches.

Horgotas

White pebbles, green nature around with olives and cypresses, and beautiful turquoise waters. Another beautiful beach of Kefalonia that will enchant you. The beach is not organized, but you will enjoy tranquility under the shade of the trees. Be careful with parking! Do not go all the way down if there are many parked cars, because there is no room to back out.

Κοroni

A sandy beach with fine, white sand and clear blue waters, ideal for swimming. Access is by a narrow gravel road. It is organized, with sunbeds and umbrellas, and also has a small canteen that offers the essentials.

Bonus Tip: Stay until late in the afternoon and enjoy the magical sunset, where the sky is painted in the most beautiful colors and offers you an unforgettable landscape.

Κουtsoupia

Access to Koutsoupia beach is by boat, as it is located a short distance from Sami and Antisamo. There is a hiking route (Antisamos – Poros) that is quite long but easy, and you will definitely be rewarded with the landscape. The beach has white sand, fine pebbles, and deep, crystal-clear waters. The surrounding green space mainly consists of cypress, oak, and stump trees. (From where it derived its name).

Kako Lagadi

An exotic beach, just one kilometer from Poros, just before Skala. To reach the beach, you will follow a small path, and you will see the rocks that will lead you to this magical beach. It is a small creek with turquoise waters and white pebbles. But the feature that makes it magical is the cave at the edge of the beach, where anyone who sits will enjoy its shade and tranquility.

What to do in Kefalonia

Lake Melissani

This is a rare geological phenomenon in the world, which is worth visiting. During an earthquake, part of the cave’s roof fell in, and this lagoon was created, 20 meters below sea level. What makes the lagoon impressive is the crystal-clear water, reminiscent of a magical scene, as the sun’s rays stream through the open part of the roof.

The cave is 160 meters long, and the water depth ranges from 10 to 40 meters. It was discovered in 1951, and geologists confirmed that the water is mixed underground with seawater from the tunnels of Argostoli.

Today, the lagoon cave of Melissani can be visited via an artificial underground tunnel. There are small boats with experienced and cheerful boatmen who will guide you along the entire length of the lake.

Inside the cave, you will see stalactites that are 20,000 years old, and there is an islet in the middle of the lake, on which objects of worship for the god Pan were found. Objects were also found that certified the presence of female figures, the well-known Nymphs.

Two myths say that the lake cave of Melissani was named after him. The first refers to the Nymph Melissani, who committed suicide in the lake because the god Pan did not respond to her love. The other version refers to the shepherdess Melissanthi, who fell into the lake while attempting to catch one of her sheep.

Practical information:

• Ticket: €10 adults | €5 children (6–12) | Under 6 free
• Combo with Drogarati Cave: €13 (saves €2 vs separate tickets)
• Hours (June–September): 08:00–19:00
• Hours (April–May, October): 08:00–17:00
• Duration: ~15–20 minutes boat tour
• Best time to visit: Around midday, when the sun shines directly through the opening, illuminating the water to electric turquoise
• Tip: Arrive early morning or book in advance during July–August, cruise ships flood the site at midday
• Location: Karavomylos, near Sami ~30 minutes from Argostoli

Drogarati Cave

This is one of the most remarkable caves from a geological perspective. Inside, you will see stalactites and stalagmites more than one hundred million years old. The main part of the cave is very large, measuring 65 × 45 meters and about 20 meters high, and has excellent acoustics. Its temperature is constant at 18 degrees Celsius, and its depth is about 95 meters. It was discovered about 300 years ago, when a strong earthquake struck the area where today’s entrance is located. It can be visited year-round, and, in fact, in the past, several events were held in the 900 sq. m. hall at its entrance, with a capacity of 500 people(!).

Fiskardo

The picturesque Fiskardo is world famous for the countless boats that fill the harbor and the colorful houses that surround it. It is one of the few settlements that were preserved rather than leveled by the 1953 earthquake. Between the green landscape and the blue sea, houses and mansions with tiled roofs painted in different colors are built on the hill, completing a beautiful scene. On the cosmopolitan seaside promenade, you will find sophisticated shops, cafes, bars, and taverns. A walk in the narrow, cobbled alleys between the houses with the yards full of flowers, will make you feel like you have gone back in time.

Assos

Another picturesque settlement on the northwestern part of the island, near the beach of Myrtos. Assos is connected to the rest of the island by a narrow strip of land, on which part of the settlement has been built today. It is built amphitheatrically around the homonymous peninsula, between the rich vegetation and the turquoise waters, thus creating a picturesque image. Do not forget to go up to the castle of Assos and admire the view. This castle was built in the 15th century to protect the inhabitants from pirates and was used as a prison, but today you will find only its ruins.

Argostoli

The capital and largest city of Kefalonia, /Greece. Some of the attractions you will see in Argostoli include the main pedestrian street, Lithostroto; Rizospaston Avenue; the statue of the poet Nikos Kavvadias; and the municipal theater, “Kefalos”. Although the 1953 earthquake destroyed the entire settlement, the houses’ architecture is reminiscent of Venetian mansions, lending it its picturesque quality.

Trekking

Kefalonia is a green island and offers several hiking trails. The island is covered by mountains, mainly from Ainos, creating the diversity and the natural landscape that impresses hikers. The starting points of the routes vary depending on the difficulty and the location that each hiker wants to visit. Some of the routes are Sami – Antisamos Beach, Razata – Cyclops Walls that lead to a panoramic view of Argostoli, Gradou Waterfalls (yes, Kefalonia also has waterfalls!), And many more trails that will impress you.

Scuba Diving

In Kefalonia, you will find many diving centers that will give you the opportunity to explore the seabed of the island. There are several interesting points. First, it is worth exploring the wreck of the British ship Perseus on the island’s south side. This particular shipwreck excites interest in how it has remained intact to this day. Also, due to the earthquakes, special natural formations have formed below the sea surface. The underwater caves in Fiskardo and the wonderful seabed in Agia Efimia, Skala, Argostoli, and Paliki stand out in the underwater area of ​​the island and host many divers every year.

Read more information on scuba diving

Boat Hire

We suggest you rent a boat or boat to discover the small, inaccessible beaches, so beautiful and pure. From Poros, Fiskardo, Argostoli, and also from various other ports of the island, you will find boat owners who will offer you rental services. Prices start from €80, plus the petrol tank at €35. This experience is worth it for those who want to explore the island’s hidden beaches and enjoy the tranquility they offer. The most important thing is that you can drive them yourself after a short training.

One-day trip to neighboring islands

For those who want to visit another island, Ithaca and Zakynthos are the closest islands. Ithaca, in particular, is very close to Kefalonia. The journey is about 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the departure port in Kefalonia and the arrival port in Ithaca.

Read our complete guide to Ithaca

Food and beverage

For such a large island as Kefalonia, obviously, the choices in food and drink are innumerable. Indicatively, we mention below some shops that we visited.

Palia Plaka: A family shop in Argostoli with a picturesque balcony overlooking the sea. The staff is helpful, and the cooked food (chicken cannelloni, spinach lasagna with feta cheese, and meat pie) is delicious.

Astra cocktail bar: A beautiful and quiet shop with a wide variety of cocktails in Lourdata. Quite economical with a beautiful yard.

Sesto: Towards Koroni beach, there is a wonderful bar with a beautiful view. You can enjoy your coffee, your drink, and the great food. It has parking, and on Saturdays, we suggest you book your table in advance.

Octopus: A small family shop in Poros, ideal for appetizers, good wine, and a pleasant environment on the seafront.

Zenza: A quiet shop on the seafront of Poros, with a very wide variety of cocktails. At times, they have a Happy Hour for cocktails.

Patsouras Tavern: A family-owned, traditional tavern in the area of ​​Argostoli. It has good service, quality food, and reasonable prices.

Tassia: A well-known shop to holidaymakers who return to Fiskardo every summer. There is a variety of dishes and fresh seafood delicacies. Be sure to try her cheesecake.

En Kefallinia: A vegetarian choice for the respective lovers of this type of cuisine. It is located in the village of Lakithra on an organic farm. The raw materials come directly from the farm, while there is also free-range meat and seafood for those who want their animal protein, too.

Where to stay on Kefalonia

For our stay, we preferred Agnanti Studios, located in the ​​Lourdata area. A family business that has been in operation for more than 15 years of operation and has good reviews and people who prefer them a second time. They have 8 rooms, all renovated and clean. The facilities include a kitchenette, refrigerator, cooking utensils (kettle, toaster, coffee maker, etc.). Hot water is available throughout the day, and free Wi-Fi is available. For those with their own means of transport, parking is available free of charge.

A BBQ space is also available. Every visitor can use it and bake there. In addition, the owners organize BBQ nights to which all customers are invited, thus creating a very friendly atmosphere. Finally, regarding the accommodation’s location, according to Lourdata, you can organize your daily excursions in the surrounding areas and on the beaches.

Generally, Kefalonia is a large island, so where you stay matters for what you can easily access:

Argostoli: Best all-round base. Central, good services, taxis, car hire, close to the airport. Best for exploring the whole island.

Sami: Ideal for cave enthusiasts, 2km from Melissani, with access to Drogarati. Quieter, authentic Greek town.

Fiskardo: The most glamorous base. Boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, superyachts. Premium prices. Best for couples.

Skala/Poros: Best for families, with a sandy beach, calm waters, and resort amenities.

Lassi: Beach resort area near Argostoli. Good for beach-focused holidays.

Useful Sites & apps

In the last few years, we have been traveling, and we have singled out some applications that we use on every trip or during it. We have chosen them over others for their validity, ease of use, and the variety of options they offer. We describe below in detail what these are, together with their characteristics.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com is a leading provider of hotel accommodation worldwide, offering booking services through its own network of localized websites. Once you reach 10 nights, you’ll have a free night, which you can apply at checkout. You can earn multiple free nights by continuing to book with Hotels.com, though. The platform gives travelers one of the widest selections of accommodation on the net, including both independent and major chain hotels as well as self-catering in over hundreds of thousands of properties worldwide. The company offers a one-stop shopping source for hotel pricing, amenities, and availability. Find the best deals on Hotels.com.

Booking.com

Booking.com is a popular online booking platform for accommodations worldwide. With a vast selection of hotels, apartments, villas, and more, Booking.com offers travelers the convenience of finding and booking their ideal stay in just a few clicks. The site’s user-friendly interface and extensive filtering options make it easy to narrow down search results based on specific preferences such as price, location, amenities, and more. As a result, Booking.com has become a go-to destination for travelers looking for hassle-free booking options. With competitive pricing and a loyalty program that rewards repeat bookings, Booking.com is a top choice for travelers seeking great deals and a seamless booking experience. Check available rooms and prices on Booking.com.

Ferryscanner

For ferry tickets to all of Greece, as well as destinations like Italy and Turkey. Immediate service and cooperation with the largest services in Greece. See more at Ferryscanner.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a leading global travel search engine, helping millions of travelers find the best flights, hotels, and car rentals. With a user-friendly interface and powerful search technology, Skyscanner makes it easy to compare prices and options across hundreds of travel providers, giving you the best deals for your trip. From budget to luxury, domestic to international, Skyscanner has everything you need to plan your next adventure. So whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, start your journey with Skyscanner and discover the world like never before. Available flights and prices can be found on Skyscanner.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor helps hundreds of millions of people each month become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do, and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants, and discover great places nearby.

Discover Cars 

DiscoverCars.com offers a hassle-free car rental booking experience, with a wide range of rental car options available worldwide. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates, 24/7 customer support, and flexible cancellation policies. With no hidden fees and a user-friendly interface, booking your rental car has never been easier. Choose from a variety of car rental options, including economy, luxury, and family-friendly vehicles, and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your next adventure. Book with DiscoverCars.com today and start exploring the world on your own terms!

Kefalonia, Greece FAQ — Everything you need to know