Travel Guide for Kefalonia, Greece: Top Activities on the Island of Kefalonia

“Four Point Two Thousand”

Kefalonia, Greece: A Beautiful Island That’s Less Crowded Than Zakynthos or Santorini

Exploring Kefalonia from Zakynthos in a day versus staying for a few days: my opinion

Kefalonia Island’s Most Notable Attraction: Melissani Lake and Cave, Plus Beautiful Beaches with Soft White Pebbles and Turquoise Water

Discover the top activities in Kefalonia, Greece, along with travel tips and accommodation recommendations. Plus, find information on transportation and tour options, as well as a helpful map for trip planning.

Top-rated Tours of Kefalonia

If you have limited time in Kefalonia, consider taking a day tour to explore the island.

Consider using GetYourGuide for your Kefalonia tours! They offer top-rated private tours that visit popular attractions such as Melissani Cave, Antisamos Beach, and Myrtos Viewpoint.

Budget-Friendly Shared Bus Tours for Solo Travelers in Kefalonia Offer Free Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

We have utilized the services of this company for numerous day tours and activities worldwide, and we have had excellent experiences! We highly recommend them.

Reserve Your Spot Now for a Private or Bus Tour of Kefalonia, Greece

Location of Kefalonia Island

Kefalonia, which is also spelled Cephalonia, is an island situated in the Ionian Sea, to the west of mainland Greece.

Greece has a total of seven Ionian Islands, and the distance from Athens to Kefalonia is approximately 260 kilometers (160 miles) in a direct route.

Discovering the Way to Reach Kefalonia, Greece

You can get to Kefalonia island by either flying or taking a ferry.

The most convenient and quickest way to travel to Kefalonia is by flying. The Kefalonia airport (EFL) has daily nonstop flights from Athens, and also offers some international flights from cities such as Amsterdam, London, and Munich. Despite being the most expensive option, flying is highly recommended for reaching Kefalonia.

The duration of the flight from Athens to Kefalonia is approximately 1 hour, and the price for a one-way ticket with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express ranges from 50 to 100 Euros.

Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) is the preferred airline over Sky Express if you have the option, but either one is acceptable. Typically, ticket prices include free checked baggage.

Explore Kefalonia flights available at Skyscanner – Book Now!

Opting for the ferry from Athens to Kefalonia is more cost-effective than flying, although it involves a longer travel time and some added complexity.

Traveling from Athens to Kefalonia via Kyllini by bus and ferry.

Ferries from neighboring islands such as Zakynthos and Ithaca are available for those interested in exploring more of Greece beyond Kefalonia. This allows for the opportunity to do some island hopping and diversify the travel itinerary.

One option could be: “We flew into Kefalonia for a few days, took the ferry to Zakynthos, and then flew from Zakynthos back to Athens. We also did the same thing in the opposite direction and it worked out great!”

Day trips from Zakynthos to Kefalonia are available for those with limited time who want to experience the island’s main attractions.

Exploring Kefalonia: Transportation Options for Getting Around

Exploring Kefalonia: Why You’ll Need Transportation to Fully Experience the Island

When traveling short distances near town, Uber may not be available, but you can always hire a taxi. During our airport transfers in Greece, we opted for Welcome Pickups and were extremely satisfied with the service. Their cars are clean and their drivers are safe, ensuring a smooth journey from the airport to the hotel and back.

Renting a car is the best way to get around Kefalonia island. Numerous car rental companies are available, but we suggest using DiscoverCars!

Navigating Kefalonia’s roads can be a bit nerve-wracking, but overall it’s not too difficult, and the majority of the roads are well-maintained. In comparison to Zakynthos, we found it to be somewhat easier. The island’s terrain is more mountainous, so you may encounter steep roads at times, but they are generally in good condition.

Some roads in Cephalonia are still gravel with occasional potholes, but they are gradually improving as the island becomes more accessible and popular with travelers.

Navigating through Argostoli town can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads lined with parked cars. It is important to drive cautiously and remain vigilant while in town. Once you leave the town, the roads generally become much easier to navigate.

Driving customs in Greece
People in Greece drive on the right side of the road, much like in the US and Canada. Locals tend to drive at high speeds and often disregard speed limits and pass on double yellow lines. It is advisable to be mindful of this and to move over to allow them to pass.

Foreign Tourists from Australia, Canada, UK, and US No Longer Require an International Driving Permit to Drive in Greece After 2021 Law Change.

The current text of the new law (written in Greek) is located in Law 4850, article 25, paragraph η, on page 10697, and has also been verified by the U.S. Embassy in Greece.

Consider having an International Driving Permit for Kefalonia to avoid any confusion with authorities or car rental companies, as many people in Greece may not be aware of the new requirement.

Explore Kefalonia without driving by opting for a private or bus tour.

Best Accommodation Options in Kefalonia

Top Activities to Experience in Kefalonia, Greece

• The Lake Inside Melissani Cave

Melissani: A Breathtaking Underground Lake and Cave in Kefalonia with an Uncovered Ceiling Illuminating its Beautiful Blue Water.

Explore the cave with a short paddleboat tour around the lake, one of the top activities in Kefalonia. When visiting Melissani cave at the right time of day, the ceiling allows just enough light to create a stunning effect on the water, turning it a vibrant transparent blue.

This is a must-see for every world traveler, although the boat ride is brief and the lake’s beauty depends on the right lighting.

Due to its stunning beauty, Melissani has become a highly sought-after destination in Kefalonia, resulting in long waiting times to see it. In peak season, expect to wait in line for 10 to 40 minutes.

The optimal time to visit the cave is during mid-day when the sunlight illuminates the lake’s colors, but keep in mind that it is also the most crowded period. Be prepared for some waiting.

Short Boat Ride Offers Abundant Photo Opportunities and Chance to Spot Eels in the Lake

Explore Further: Melissani Cave Lake

Reserve Your Spot for the Melissani Lake Private Tour, Half-Day Tour, or Bus Tour Today

Antisamos Beach: A Beautiful Destination for Relaxation

Antisamos Beach: A stunning coastline with crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, nestled amidst lush green hills. Perfect for a refreshing swim in the pristine, glass-like water.

Once a peaceful, secluded beach, it has now become a bustling commercial area. It is easily accessible via a paved road from the nearby harbor town of Sami, and offers a variety of amenities including restaurants, umbrellas, bathrooms, and parking.

Due to its close proximity to Sami, this beach is conveniently located for a visit to the nearby Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave.

It is a fantastic beach for families to enjoy swimming and relaxation!

Myrtos Beach: A Spectacular Destination

Myrtos: A breathtaking spot in Kefalonia, Greece, featuring a stunning white pebble beach enclosed by towering cliffs and a lookout offering a bird’s-eye view of the beach.

Don’t forget to visit the roadside viewpoint (located here) before heading to the beach. It offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Kefalonia, and it’s easily accessible without any cost or hiking required!

Stunning Views of the Kefalonia Coastline and Convenient Parking Options

Accessing Myrtos Beach via the steep paved road can be unsettling, particularly when sharing the road with other vehicles on the way back up the hill.

During peak season, it is advisable to arrive early for parking at Myrtos due to its popularity. Despite this, the beach is over 700 meters long and does not feel overcrowded. The waves can be quite strong, making it less suitable for children to swim.

Myrtos Beach boasts stunningly white pebbles and cliffs, contrasting against the vibrant turquoise water. It is widely considered the most beautiful beach in Kefalonia.

“Discover the Charm of Assos Village”

Explore the charming seaside village of Assos on the northern peninsula of Kefalonia for an unforgettable experience in Greece!

A charming and vibrant town perfect for photo opportunities, we wished we could have extended our visit. The quaint town features a lovely protected beach for swimming and a variety of shops and restaurants along the coast.

A wonderful spot to unwind with the presence of water, shade trees, and benches.

Assos was the administrative capital of northern Cephalonia under Venetian rule, beginning in 1593.

Hike up to the Venetian Castle of Assos for a beautiful view of the town from the other side when you have some spare time. It takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the castle ruins from the car park, and there is no admission fee.

Limited parking at Assos may fill up during high season, so it’s best to arrive early if you can.

Accommodation Options in Assos: Romanza Studios

Fiskardo: A Charming Greek Village

Historic Fiskardo Harbor Town on Kefalonia Island with Ferry Access to Ithaca and Lefkada

Fiskardo: A Charming Destination for a Leisurely Stroll and Seaside Views

Fiskardo is more crowded than Assos and not as picturesque. It’s still worth visiting, but if you can only see one town, I would definitely choose Assos.

Fiscardo Studios: A Guide to Accommodation Options

Fteri Beach: A Guide to the Perfect Getaway

Fteri Beach can be accessed by boat (‘water taxi‘) from Zola town and offers a secluded setting.

Enjoy a Relaxing Boat Ride to the Beach and Stay as Long as You Want

Initially, I was skeptical about this arrangement, but it ended up being very convenient for us. No advance booking is necessary, and there are numerous boats available during peak season.

Fteri Beach: A Stunning and Photogenic Destination with Unreal Turquoise Waters

Enjoy the tranquil waters of Fteri for swimming, with the option to rent water shoes for walking on the pebbly shore. Additionally, you can choose to pay a little extra for a boat tour to visit other beaches and sea caves in the vicinity.

An alternative way to access Fteri on a budget could be by hiking for approximately 30-45 minutes on an unmarked and rugged trail, although many opt for the water taxi due to the challenging nature of the path.

Reasonable Prices for Water Taxis and the Option to Share a Boat for Solo Travelers Result in a Fun Experience!

Petani Beach: A Guide to the Stunning Coastal Destination

Petani Beach could be considered as equally stunning as Fteri, making it one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Kefalonia, Greece. It is situated on the western peninsula of the island.

A convenient beach with restaurants, bars, showers, and plenty of umbrellas is available for easy access. Similar to other popular Kefalonia beaches, it can become crowded during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

The beach has crystal clear water and is surrounded by limestone mountains, making it a beautiful destination.

Top Kefalonia Photography Locations

In my opinion, the Melissani cave and lake is the top photo spot in Kefalonia. It was the highlight of our visit to Kefalonia, Greece.

Kefalonia: A Photographer’s Paradise with Stunning Views of Myrtos Beach and Charming Assos Village

Capturing Stunning Aerial Photos on Kefalonia Island: A Guide for Drone Pilots

Top Beach Destinations in Kefalonia, Greece

Cephalonia boasts a wide array of beautiful beaches, offering a superior selection compared to the nearby island of Zakynthos.

Explore the popular beaches with convenient access and beachfront lodging on the southern coast of the island, including Kalamia, Xi, Makris Gialos, Skala, and Ragia Beach.

Discover the most picturesque beaches in Antisamos, Myrtos, Fteri, and Petani with their stunning turquoise water, white pebble shores, and breathtaking limestone mountains.

Map of Kefalonia Island

Discover the Kefalonia island map to help you plan your trip in Greece.

Feel free to click on the icons on the map to access more information and directions for each point of interest, although please note that some of the locations may be approximate.

What items should you bring?

Check out these packing tips for your upcoming vacation to Kefalonia, Greece.

Many of the items listed below may be available on the island in a pinch, but the quality of goods purchased from street vendors is not guaranteed (personally, I would not use a cheap imitation bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera equipment).

Consider purchasing products that have been thoroughly reviewed and approved by experts on the internet!

Must-Have Items for Boating: Waterproof Bag, Waterproof Phone Pouch, Snorkeling Gear, and Water Shoes

Additional Kefalonia Suggestions

Paying and Communication Tips for Traveling in Kefalonia

Most people in Kefalonia can speak and understand English, making it easy for English-speaking tourists to communicate. There are no significant concerns about mosquitoes or the quality of tap water on the island.

Is it safe to visit Kefalonia?

Is Kefalonia a safe destination for travelers?

Greece’s homicide rate is among the lowest globally. By taking standard precautions, you can avoid any crime-related problems.

The island of Kefalonia doesn’t attract as many tourists, so you won’t feel crowded, and our experience was that the locals were very welcoming.

Is a trip to Kefalonia worth the investment?

Absolutely, I believe Kefalonia is worth visiting. Our experience on the island was truly enjoyable, especially the breathtaking sights such as Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach.

Cephalonia is a fantastic choice if you want an island with stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and a more peaceful atmosphere.

Duration of Stay in Kefalonia, Greece

You can cover the main attractions of Kefalonia in just three or four days, but a longer stay of a week or two would be more leisurely.

Kefalonia Island Offers Affordable Beaches and Hidden Gems, Allowing for Extended Stays Compared to Zakynthos

Make sure to visit the Melissani cave if you only have a day in Kefalonia. It is one of the top attractions in Cephalonia, Greece!

Exploring Kefalonia, Greece: A Travel Plan

A potential 4-day itinerary for Cephalonia island

Day 1: Explore Central/East Kefalonia. Begin by driving to Sami to visit the stunning Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave, then unwind at Antisamos Beach before continuing the journey along the east coast, making stops at hidden beaches like Ragia, Limenia, Kako Lagadi, and Skala Beach.
Day 2: Discover North Kefalonia. Head to the northern part of Kefalonia, making stops at Myrtos Viewpoint and the charming seaside town of Assos. Drive to the far northern tip of the island and explore the harbor town of Fiskardo, where you can enjoy lunch. Visit the nearby Foki Beach and then start the drive back to southern Kefalonia, stopping at Myrtos Beach.
Day 3: Explore West Kefalonia. Begin the day by visiting the spectacular beaches at Zola. Take a short water taxi to Fteri Beach, and then visit Vouti and/or Kiriaki Beach. Drive around the western peninsula of Kefalonia, visiting amazing spots like Petani Beach and Xi Beach.
Day 4: Enjoy South Kefalonia. Take a leisurely day exploring sights in Argostoli, including the De Bosset Bridge, Fanari Lighthouse, and Kalamia Beach. End the day at the Castle of Agios Georgios, and have an early dinner at Kastro Cafe, one of the top restaurants in Kefalonia.

Feel free to ask any questions about your trip to Cephalonia and I hope this sample itinerary gives you some ideas for your own journey.

Hotels in Kefalonia

Ideal Timing for a Trip to Kefalonia, Greece

When is the ideal time to travel to Kefalonia island?

July and August are the peak months for heat in Greece, with Kefalonia experiencing daytime temperatures of up to 27°C (82°F) and nighttime lows of 19°C (67°F). This makes it perfect for swimming and beach lounging, but keep in mind that these months tend to be busier with tourists.

The winter weather in Kefalonia is relatively mild, with more precipitation, lower temperatures, and increased cloud cover. Snowfall is possible, particularly in the Ainos mountains, with high temperatures averaging around 11 °C (53 °F) and lows around 6 °C (43 °F). There are fewer boat tours operating during this time, but there are potential discounts on accommodations and activities.

No matter when you choose to travel to Cephalonia, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience!

Additional Travel Guides for Greece

We appreciate your interest! I hope you found this travel guide helpful for discovering the top activities in Kefalonia, Greece.

Coming soon: More travel guides for the Greek islands! Don’t forget to check back later for updates.

Have a wonderful journey!