Kefalonia Greece Travel Guide & Best Things To Do

The stunning island of Kefalonia, Greece, offers a serene escape without the crowds found on other popular Greek islands such as Zakynthos or Santorini.

While a day trip from Zakynthos to Kefalonia allows you to see key attractions in just one day, it is recommended to spend several days on the island to fully appreciate its beauty and explore its various sights.

Noteworthy attractions on Kefalonia include the acclaimed Melissani lake and cave, along with numerous pristine beaches featuring white pebbles and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

This travel guide provides insights into the best activities to enjoy on Kefalonia, details on how to reach the island, suggestions for accommodations, transportation options, and tour packages. Additionally, a helpful island map is included to aid in trip planning!

Top Kefalonia Tours

If you have limited time in Kefalonia, taking a tour is an excellent way to explore the island.

For the best Kefalonia tours, we suggest booking through GetYourGuide! They offer highly-rated private day tours that cover top attractions such as Melissani Cave, Antisamos Beach, and Myrtos Viewpoint.

If you are a solo traveler on a budget, GetYourGuide also offers shared tours by bus, which include complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off in popular areas of Kefalonia.

Having used GetYourGuide for various tours worldwide, we can attest to their excellent service. We highly recommend them for your Kefalonia tour needs!

Secure Your Spot Now: Kefalonia Private Tour / Bus Tour

Location of Kefalonia Island

Kefalonia, also known as Cephalonia, is situated in the Ionian Sea to the west of mainland Greece.

Being one of the seven Ionian Islands in Greece, Kefalonia is approximately 260 kilometers (160 miles) away from Athens in a direct line.

Explore Fteri Beach – one of the top attractions in Kefalonia!

Getting to Kefalonia Greece

Kefalonia can be accessed by either plane or ferry.

Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kefalonia, albeit the most costly. The island’s airport (EFL) offers daily direct flights from Athens, as well as select international destinations such as Amsterdam, London, and Munich.

The flight duration from Athens to Kefalonia is approximately 1 hour, with ticket prices ranging from 50 to 100 Euros for one-way travel with carriers like Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express.

For a preferred option, consider using Aegean Airlines (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) over Sky Express. Typically, checked baggage is included in the ticket fare.

Book Now: Find Kefalonia flights on Skyscanner

Opting for a ferry from Athens to Kefalonia is a more affordable alternative to flying, but it involves a lengthier and slightly more complex journey.

Initially, a 4-hour bus trip is required from Athens to Kyllini (priced at 25 Euros), followed by boarding the ferry at that port. The ferry voyage from Kyllini to Kefalonia lasts approximately 1.5 hours and costs around 14 Euros.

Additionally, ferries operate from neighboring islands like Zakynthos and Ithaca, offering the opportunity for island hopping in Greece and exploring beyond just Kefalonia.

Exploring Kefalonia and Zakynthos

Consider flying into Kefalonia, spending a few days there, taking a ferry to Zakynthos, and then flying back to Athens from Zakynthos, or vice versa. This itinerary offers a great way to experience both islands seamlessly.

For those with limited time, there are convenient day tours available from Zakynthos to Kefalonia to explore the highlights of the island in a short period.

Myrtos Viewpoint

Enjoy the breathtaking views from Myrtos Viewpoint, one of the top attractions on Kefalonia island that should not be missed during your visit.

Transport: How To Get Around On Kefalonia

Kefalonia, being a relatively large island, requires proper transportation to explore fully, as traveling from one side to the other can be time-consuming. To make the most of your visit, a suitable mode of transport is essential.

For short distances within town, while Uber is not available, taxis can be hired for convenient travel. Opting for services like Welcome Pickups for airport transfers ensures a comfortable and safe journey to and from your accommodation.

The primary mode of transportation on Kefalonia is renting a car, with various rental companies operating on the island. One recommended option is DiscoverCars for reliable service and quality vehicles.

Driving on Kefalonia might pose some challenges, albeit manageable, with most roads in decent condition compared to other islands like Zakynthos. Despite the mountainous terrain leading to occasional steep roads, the majority of them are well-maintained.

While some remote roads in Cephalonia may still be gravel with minor potholes, ongoing improvements are enhancing accessibility for travelers due to the island’s increasing popularity.

Navigating through Argostoli town can be slightly tricky due to heavy traffic and narrow streets lined with parked cars. It is advisable to drive cautiously within the town limits and remain alert. Once outside the town, the roads generally offer smoother journeys.

Driving in Greece: What You Need to Know

Greeks drive on the right side of the road, similar to the US and Canada. The locals have a tendency to drive fast, often disregarding speed limits and passing on double yellow lines. It’s advisable to be cautious of this behavior and make way for them to pass.

New Law Update for Foreign Tourists

As of 2021, travelers from Australia, Canada, UK, and the United States no longer require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Greece, following a recent law change. The specific details of this legislation can be accessed in Law 4850, art. 25, par. η, page 10697, available in Greek. The U.S. Embassy in Greece has also corroborated this information.

Despite the legal changes, having an IDP for Kefalonia might still be beneficial in case of any confusion with local authorities or car rental companies, as many individuals in Greece may still be unaware of this updated regulation.

Exploring Kefalonia Without Driving

If you prefer not to drive in Kefalonia, there are alternative ways to explore the island, such as opting for a private or bus tour. This allows you to enjoy the sights and attractions without the hassle of navigating the roads yourself.

Accommodation Options in Kefalonia

Consider staying at Argostoli Marina for a delightful experience.

Explore the charming Garbis Villas for a cozy stay in Kefalonia.

Enjoy the hospitality of Mouikis Hotel during your visit to Kefalonia.

Experience a relaxing stay at Aenos Hotel while exploring Kefalonia.

Top Activities in Kefalonia, Greece

• Melissani Cave Lake

Melissani Cave Lake in Kefalonia is a breathtaking underground lake and cave with a ceiling that illuminates its beautiful blue waters.

Exploring this cave on a paddleboat tour around the lake is a must-do activity in Kefalonia. The unique lighting at certain times of the day causes the water to transform into a vibrant transparent blue hue, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Considered a bucket-list experience for travelers, visiting Melissani Cave Lake is highly recommended, although the short boat ride and the lake’s appearance greatly depend on the lighting conditions.

Due to its stunning beauty, Melissani has become a popular tourist destination in Kefalonia, resulting in queues during peak seasons that may range from 10 to 40 minutes.

The best time to visit the cave is around mid-day when the sunlight hits the lake, showcasing its vibrant colors. However, this is also the busiest time, so patience is required.

The brief boat ride, approximately 10 minutes, offers ample opportunities for capturing memorable photos. Keep an eye out for eels swimming in the lake, adding to the sense of adventure.

Read More: Melissani Cave Lake

Book Your Private Tour of Melissani Lake Now!

If you want to experience the beauty of Melissani Lake, consider booking one of our exclusive tours:

Melissani Lake Private Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Melissani Lake with a private tour that offers a personalized experience like no other.

Half-Day Tour

Discover the highlights of Kefalonia on a half-day tour that showcases the best the island has to offer in a shorter timeframe.

Bus Tour

Join a bus tour to explore Kefalonia and its attractions with a group, offering a convenient and comprehensive way to see the sights.

• Antisamos Beach

Antisamos Beach is a stunning destination known for its crystal-clear water and gentle waves, surrounded by lush green hills. The transparent sea is ideal for a refreshing swim.

Once a secluded hideaway, Antisamos Beach has now become a bustling commercial hub. Conveniently accessible via a well-maintained road from the picturesque harbor town of Sami, the beach offers various amenities such as restaurants, umbrellas, restrooms, and ample parking facilities.

Located in close proximity to Sami, visitors can easily combine a trip to Antisamos Beach with a visit to the nearby attractions of Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave.

With its family-friendly atmosphere and opportunities for swimming and unwinding, Antisamos Beach is an excellent choice for a day out by the sea.

• Myrtos Beach

Myrtos Beach, located in Kefalonia, is a stunning destination known for its snow-white pebble beach surrounded by steep cliffs on both sides and a picturesque viewpoint offering a bird’s eye view of the beach.

Before heading to the beach, be sure to visit the roadside viewpoint (found here) to enjoy some of the best scenery in Kefalonia without any entrance fees or strenuous hiking.

The viewpoint provides breathtaking vistas of the Kefalonia coastline and the winding road leading down to the beach. While parking may be limited, there are usually available spaces due to the constant flow of cars.

Access to Myrtos Beach involves navigating a steep paved road shared with other vehicles traveling up the hill, which can be a bit nerve-wracking at times.

During peak season, arriving early is recommended to secure parking as Myrtos Beach is a popular destination. Despite its popularity, the beach, stretching over 700 meters, never feels overly crowded. However, the strong waves make it less suitable for children to swim.

The beach’s vibrant pebbles and cliffs, contrasted with the turquoise waters, create a mesmerizing sight, making Myrtos Beach arguably the most beautiful beach in Kefalonia!

• Assos Village

Assos Village is a picturesque seaside town located on a peninsula in the northern part of Kefalonia, offering a delightful experience for visitors.

This charming village is known for its colorful buildings and stunning views, making it a perfect spot for capturing memorable moments. The area features a lovely protected beach where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim, along with a variety of shops and restaurants along the coastline.

Visitors can also relax under the shade of trees and benches by the water, providing a serene atmosphere for unwinding.

Historically, Assos was once the administrative center of northern Cephalonia during the Venetian rule, dating back to 1593.

For those with extra time, a hike up to the Venetian Castle of Assos offers a panoramic view of the town from a different perspective. The castle ruins are accessible from the car park within a 30-40 minute walk and admission is free.

During peak season, parking may be limited in Assos, so it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

Where To Stay In Assos: Romanza Studios

• Fiskardo Village

Fiskardo, located on the northern tip of Kefalonia island, is a historic harbor town offering ferry services to nearby Greek islands such as Ithaca and Lefkada.

Even if you do not intend to take the ferry, Fiskardo is a delightful destination to explore, stroll around the harbor, and soak in the scenic seaside vistas. Our visit included a delicious lunch of Greek gyros and souvenir shopping.

Compared to Assos, Fiskardo tends to be more crowded and lacks the same level of picturesque charm. Nonetheless, it is still a worthwhile stop, although if you have to choose between the two towns, Assos would be the recommended choice.

Where To Stay: Fiscardo Studios

Fiskardo village

The old Venetian lighthouse at Fiskardo village

• Fteri Beach

Fteri Beach is a hidden gem accessible by a quick boat ride from Zola town using a water taxi service.

The boat trip is convenient and takes less than 10 minutes each way. Visitors can enjoy the beach for as long as they want, and the boat operator provides a WhatsApp number for return trips.

Despite initial reservations, the process is seamless and doesn’t require prior booking, especially during peak season when there are frequent boat transfers available.

Fteri Beach boasts stunning beauty, featuring clear turquoise waters that are almost surreal. While the beach was tranquil upon our arrival, it gradually became popular as more people arrived.

The gentle waves make Fteri ideal for swimming, although wearing water shoes is advisable due to the pebbly shoreline. For an additional fee, visitors can also explore neighboring beaches and sea caves by boat.

For budget-conscious travelers, a 30-45 minute hike on an unmarked trail is an alternative way to reach Fteri. However, most opt for the water taxi due to the rough nature of the hiking path.

Water taxi fares are reasonable, and solo travelers can share a boat with others to cut costs. Overall, it’s a delightful and memorable experience for all!

Drone view of Fteri Beach

Fteri Beach offers stunning views from above, as captured by a drone. The aerial perspective showcases the beauty of this beach, highlighting its crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can appreciate the unique landscape and tranquility of Fteri Beach from this impressive vantage point.

• Petani Beach

Petani Beach is often regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Kefalonia, competing with Fteri for this title. Situated on the western part of the island, this beach offers easy access and is equipped with various amenities such as restaurants, bars, showers, and plenty of umbrellas.

During the peak season, Petani Beach tends to attract large crowds, so arriving early is advisable. The beach boasts crystal clear waters and is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains, providing a picturesque setting.

Top Photography Locations in Kefalonia

Arguably, the most captivating spot for photography in Kefalonia is the Melissani cave and lake, standing out as a personal favorite among the numerous breathtaking locations on the island.

Additionally, the vantage point overlooking Myrtos Beach provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, while Assos village radiates photogenic charm throughout the day. Kefalonia undoubtedly presents an array of picturesque settings for photography enthusiasts.

Drone photography enthusiasts can also capture spectacular shots in Kefalonia. With a lenient stance on drones from the local community, there are ample serene locations for flying drones without causing disturbance. It is advisable to seek permission before flying in uncertain areas.

Top Beaches in Kefalonia

The beautiful island of Kefalonia boasts a plethora of stunning beaches, surpassing those found on nearby Zakynthos.

For those seeking easily accessible beaches with nearby accommodations, the southern coast of the island offers fantastic options like Kalamia, Xi, Makris Gialos, Skala, and Ragia Beach.

For a more picturesque experience, visitors should explore Antisamos, Myrtos, Fteri, and Petani Beach, known for their vibrant turquoise waters, white pebble beaches, and striking limestone cliffs.

Explore Kefalonia with Our Interactive Map

Discover the beauty of Kefalonia with our interactive map, perfect for planning your Greek getaway.

Simply click on the icons displayed on the map to unveil detailed information and directions to various points of interest across the island. Please note that while we strive for accuracy, some locations may be estimated.

Additional Recommendations for Kefalonia

Enjoy the serene White Rocks Beach

Discover the charm of Fteri Beach, a beloved spot

Is Kefalonia Safe?

Indeed, Kefalonia is a secure destination for travelers!

With Greece boasting one of the lowest homicide rates globally, visitors can feel at ease by taking basic safety measures to avoid any potential crime incidents.

Moreover, Kefalonia maintains a balance of tourism, ensuring visitors do not feel unwelcome, with the locals proving to be hospitable and amicable during our stay.

Is Kefalonia Worth It?

Indeed, Kefalonia is definitely worth a visit. Our experience on the island was truly delightful, especially with captivating spots like Melissani Lake and Myrtos Beach.

If you seek a destination with stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere without too many crowds, Kefalonia stands out as an excellent choice!

Duration of Stay in Kefalonia

Visiting Kefalonia for three or four days allows you to explore its main attractions, but extending your stay to a week or two provides a more leisurely experience.

The island boasts numerous beautiful beaches and hidden gems, offering a cost-effective alternative to Zakynthos, making it ideal for an extended vacation. During our 4-day stay, we found ourselves wishing for more time to fully enjoy the destination.

If you find yourself with just one day in Kefalonia, such as during a day trip from Zakynthos, prioritize a visit to the mesmerizing Melissani cave, known as one of the most breathtaking sights on the island!

Kefalonia Itinerary

Below is a suggested 4-day itinerary for your visit to Kephalonia:

Use this itinerary as inspiration for planning your own trip to Kefalonia. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Melissani Cave Lake — a top attraction in Kefalonia!

Enjoy the stunning Fteri beach cliffs.

Kefalonia Hotels

Discover top hotels in Kefalonia:

Argostoli Marina

Garbis Villas

Mouikis Hotel

Aenos Hotel

Optimal Timing for Kefalonia Visit

The ideal time to explore Kefalonia varies based on your preferences, with generally pleasant weather prevailing from early May to late October. These months typically offer warm and sunny conditions. Spring and autumn, considered the shoulder months, can also provide good weather with fewer crowds.

July and August mark the hottest period in Greece, with Kefalonia experiencing daytime temperatures reaching up to 27°C (82°F) and nighttime lows of 19°C (67°F). These months are conducive to swimming in pools or relaxing on the beach, although they tend to be busier with tourists.

Winter in Kefalonia is relatively mild but characterized by increased precipitation, cooler temperatures, and overcast skies. Snowfall might occur, especially on the Ainos mountains. High temperatures hover around 11°C (53°F) with lows near 6°C (43°F). While fewer boats and tours operate during this time, you might find attractive hotel deals.

Irrespective of your chosen timeframe, a remarkable journey awaits in Kefalonia!

Explore More Travel Guides for Greece

Thank you for checking out this travel guide highlighting the best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece.

Make sure to also visit my blog posts on Zakynthos and Santorini, two other incredible destinations in Greece! Stay tuned for additional travel guides covering more Greek islands.

Wishing you safe and happy travels!