Kefalonia Travel Guide

Explore Kefalonia: What to See and Do

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and one of the best places in Greece to explore from the water: green mountains, white pebble beaches, sea caves and harbour villages, all a short sail apart. This guide covers what to see, when to go, how to get around and how to see the coast by gulet.

Kefalonia at a glance

  • Capital: Argostoli
  • Known for: Myrtos Beach, Melissani Cave, Fiskardo, Mount Ainos and Robola wine
  • Best months: June and September, with warm sea into October
  • Airport: Kefalonia International Airport, near Argostoli
  • Neighbouring islands: Ithaca, Lefkada and Zakynthos (Zante)

The best beaches in Kefalonia

Myrtos Beach is the island’s most photographed beach: about two kilometres of white pebbles below tall limestone cliffs. It has no natural shade, and the seabed drops away quickly with strong currents, so it suits confident swimmers. Go early, because it fills up in July and August.

Antisamos on the east coast is a sheltered bay with clear water, and the setting for scenes in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. On the south coast, the long sandy beaches between Skala, Katelios and Lourdas are often easiest to reach by boat. Assos on the north-west coast has pebble beaches below its hilltop castle. Kefalonia has more than 80 beaches, so you rarely run out of choice.

Caves and natural wonders

Melissani Cave is an underground lake that you visit by small boat, where daylight plays across the water. Drogarati Cave, near Mount Ainos, is known for its stalactites and large chambers, and its acoustics are so good that concerts are held inside.

Mount Ainos National Park rises to 1,628 metres, with pine and fir forest on its slopes. At its foot, vineyards produce Robola, the island’s best-known white wine.

Villages worth a stop

Fiskardo in the far north is the island’s prettiest harbour village. It kept its 18th-century Venetian-style buildings through the 1953 earthquake, which badly damaged most of the island. Yachts moor along the waterfront, and the tavernas behind it are ideal for lunch.

Assos is a small village on a peninsula, with a 16th-century Venetian castle you can walk up to. It was rebuilt after the earthquake. Agia Efimia is a quiet harbour village on the east coast, and the coast between Agia Efimia and Fiskardo has many secluded sandy bays. Argostoli, the capital, is a lively town of shops and waterfront cafes.

Kefalonia by Boat: Hidden Bays and Swim Stops

Exploring Kefalonia by boat is the best way to reach its hidden bays, caves and coastline. Many of the island’s small coves can only be reached from the sea, so a boat trip is a must. Sailing across clear blue water and watching for dolphins is a highlight of many holidays here.

In the north, between Agia Efimia and Fiskardo, there are many secluded bays with sandy beaches that you can often have to yourself. One of them, Antisamos Bay, is where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed. It is a swim stop and lunch break on our 8-day Zante cruise, before we continue to Fiskardo.

The sugar-white sandy beaches are mainly in the south, along the coast from Skala and Katelios to Lourdas and Argostoli, and most can only be reached by boat. West of Lixouri you can hire a private boat from Vatsa or Zola to explore the coast. Many beaches have sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and water sports, and if you want a private cove instead, a boat will find you one.

With some luck you may spot one of the rare monk seals on the northern coast, where sea caves give them shelter. If you see one, watch from a distance and do not approach. Dolphins are much more likely on a cruise.

In the south, opposite Zakynthos, the strictly protected loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) comes to nest on the sandy beaches. On our Zante cruise we sail around the southern coast and stop for swim stops on the same beaches the turtles visit, so guests often see them.

The best time to visit Kefalonia

June and September are the best months: warm sea, comfortable heat and fewer crowds. July and August are hot, often above 30°C, and the busiest places, such as Myrtos Bay and the harbour at Assos, fill up. The sea stays warm enough to swim in well into October.

Getting to Kefalonia and around

Kefalonia International Airport is near Argostoli, with seasonal direct flights from several UK airports. Seasonal ferries link the island with Ithaca (from Sami and from Fiskardo), Lefkada (from Fiskardo) and Zakynthos (from Pessada). Timetables change by season, so check before you travel. A car gives you the most freedom on land, and a boat reaches the coves the roads do not.

See Kefalonia by gulet

On our 8-day Zante cruise we sail from Zante to Kefalonia, with a swim stop at Antisamos and a visit to Agia Efimia, then on to Fiskardo, with Melissani Cave nearby. The cruise continues to Lefkada, Meganisi and Ithaca before returning to Zante. For a different route, see our Ionian cruise from Corfu, or plan your own itinerary on a private gulet.

Planning another island? Read our Zante travel guide or browse all of our travel guides.

Kefalonia FAQ

Is Kefalonia worth visiting?

Yes. Kefalonia has everything: long beaches such as Myrtos and Antisamos, caves such as Melissani and Drogarati, the harbour villages of Fiskardo and Assos, and green mountains. It is also one of the best Ionian islands to see by boat.

What is the best time to visit Kefalonia?

June and September are best, with warm sea, comfortable heat and fewer crowds. July and August are hotter and busier, and the sea stays warm enough to swim in well into October.

What are the best beaches in Kefalonia?

Myrtos is the most famous. Antisamos is a sheltered bay on the east coast, and the sandy beaches from Skala and Katelios to Lourdas are in the south. Many of the quietest coves can only be reached by boat.

Can you see Kefalonia by boat?

Yes. Many bays and sea caves are easiest to reach from the water. Our 8-day Zante cruise stops at Antisamos, Agia Efimia and Fiskardo, and you can also plan your own route on a private gulet.

Can you see turtles in Kefalonia?

Loggerhead turtles nest on the sandy beaches in the south of Kefalonia, opposite Zakynthos. They are strictly protected, so keep your distance. On our Zante cruise guests often see them from the swim stops.

How do I get from Kefalonia to Ithaca or Zakynthos?

Seasonal ferries connect Kefalonia with Ithaca (from Sami and from Fiskardo), Lefkada (from Fiskardo) and Zakynthos (from Pessada). Timetables change by season, so check before you travel.

Zante

Travel Guide Zante

Find out everything about your holidays in Zakynthos (or Zante) on our travel guide! Discover fantastic beaches, top destinations, as well as a wide variety of amazing photos

Navagio (Shipwreck)

Sweet Home to the worldwide renowned Navagio (Shipwreck) beach and glorified by infinite travel guides, Zante island is one of the most popular Greek islands in the Ionian sea and only! Jaw dropping destinations, breathtaking bays with sugar-fine sand and crystal clear waters together insane party life are the main reasons why Zakynthos is so popular worldwide among all ages.

 
 

Zante Cruise

But, why zakynthos boat rental is the best way to explore her?

First of all, The beach of Navagio or Shipwreck as it is also knows, is the most popular beach of Zakynthos located on the westside of the island, adjacent to Anafotiria village. The Shipwreck is if not THE definitely one of the most photographed sights in Greece. It is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Navagio beach is accessible only by boat and while there are numerous day cruises that reach there, usually tourists are packed like sheep in metallic boats that are packed. Apart from lacking in comfort and space you have limited time while at Navagio, as the day cruises are always on a tight schedule. The best way to visit shipwreck is to hire a boat and sail there at your own pace and comfort.
You can join as well our 7 day Zante Cruise that depart from May till October every Saturday and you will visit shipwreck from your private deck in style!

Ionian Islands

Furthermore, Zakynthos has plenty of other beautiful islands near by that an island hopping experience will be a must do experience in this part of the world. Greek ionian islands such as Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kastos and Kalamos, can be easily accessed by boat and a Zakynthos cruise sounds like the ideal holiday plan. With ferries that connect these islands being in scarcity even during peak season, the flexibility and comfort that a private boat offers anyways and the infinite secluded bays, inhabitant tiny islands and other hidden gems reached only be sea, makes Zakynthos boat cruise the only easy way to visit the Southern Ionian islands effective and efficient.

 
 

During our Zante cruise you will have 7 full days to cruise around Zante and the adjacent ionian islands, such as Kefalonia, Ithaca, Lefkada, Meganissi, Kasto, Kalamos. If you are a group of friends you can always hire a boat as private. Please check our fleet or email us : charter@sail-ingreece.com

It goes without say that a zakynthos cruise is the best way to visit the island and the Southern ionian islands. Whether you travel solo, as a couple, family or large group of friends avoid the crowds and set sail around Zakynthos!

Santorini

Travel Guide Santorini

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Santorini and smash your time! Santorini is one of the most popular Geek islands which is natural beauty is second to none. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to see in Santorini.

Thira

Thira is the main town of the island where all the action is. Walk around the slated allies, take glances from the cliff edges and get inspired from the island’s unique atmosphere. Tip of the day: Drink your coffee in one of the cafes which are located on Thira’s cliffs.

Explore Oia

Oia is the northern city of the island worldwide famous as the best point to watch the sunset. In the summer thousands of tourists grab their drinks and sit waiting for the sun to set. There is a connected “path” between Oia and Thira ideal for hiking.

Volcano and Hot Springs

Opposite from Santorini you can find the Volcano (known and as “kameni”) from where all started. Due to volcano eruption that happened many years ago Santorini has red and black stones everywhere. Next to the volcano the hot springs can be found.

Santo winery

Santorini produces famous wines due to the quality of their local grapes. Take a tour at the Santo winery, be privileged to sample the different varieties and buy your own bottle as a souvenir. Don’t overdo it as the Santo wines are “sneaky strong”.

Red beach

Red beach is the most popular and natural pretty beach of Santorini. The beach is located some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. Due to its small size the beach creates a crowded atmosphere and many days visitors prefer not to make it all the way down to the beach and instead marvel this unique scenery of red and black volcanic rocks from the top.

Black beach

Amongst Santorini’s most “wanted” beaches, especially among young travelers, are Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios, which sprawl one after another to create the longest black sandy beach on the island; busy beach bars, diving and water sport centres and beautiful-people-watching! Could you ask for more?

Thirassia

Thirassia is part of Santorini’s complex and is opposite from the majestic Oia. Thirassia is a part of a bigger island but got sunk and its local residence is known for their hospitality. The natural landscape and its untouchable architectural heritage attract the travelers’ eyes. Traditional fish taverns challenge visitors to appreciate the Greek local homemade cuisine.

Visit Ancient Akrotiri

Ancient Akrotiri is a fascinating and important archaeological site, which provides a rare glimpse into urban life in the Minoan period. Named the “Minoan Pompeii,” the flourishing town was at once destroyed and preserved by a volcanic eruption. Today it has been partially excavated and is protected from the sun inside a large shed.

Visit Donkey Brewery

Let’s be honest. When you hear Mykonos, you imagine endless clubbing, drinks everywhere and wild night life. Amazing bars can be found in the town, such as Scandinavian bar, Caprice and in the outskirts the world famous clubs such as Cavo Paradiso, Paradise club and many others. Most of the beaches also host very vivid and lively beach bars where you can find people drinking and dancing from early in the morning.

View from Profitis Ilias Chapel

Profitis Ilias Chapel is one of the highest points of the island and the view is breathtaking. If you prefer to admire Santorini’s sunset in a more private way overlooking the vertical cliffs of the island Profitis Ilias is the place for you. Do not spread the secret if you want to maintain the peace and quietness of the spot!

Mykonos

Travel Guide Mykonos

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Mykonos and smash your time! Mykonos is one of the worldwide famous party islands which nightlife is second to none. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to see in Mykonos.

Little Venice

Little Venice is arguably the part of Mykonos that has been photographed and seen on postcards more than any other. This cozy area is full of elegant and traditional old houses that are located precariously on the edge of the sea. Quite amazing are the sunset views from Little Venice. Its whitewashed houses against the scenery of the azure blue Aegean Sea is just amazing.

Delos

Delos, the UNESCO protected island, where history is still alive, is opposite from Mykonos. If you like to “have an appointment” with Greek history Delos is a place you should not miss. The island where the Greek god Apolon was born, will share us with captures of monuments that create a feeling of living in the past.

Paradise Beach

Paradise beach is the most popular beach on the island where thousands of young travelers relax on the beach and enjoy the white sandy with azure blue waters beach. Refreshing cocktails, tasty snacks, live music and even dancing lessons are the day to day activities. Did you just find your Paradise?

Petros The Pelican

This lovely creature who welcomes you when you arrive at port of Mykonos is so famous that has even a name, Petros! Take the best selfie with the mascot of the island, coddle and feed him and he will count you as a friend!

Chora town

Mykonos town is the point where cosmopolitan life takes place in the island. Walk around the white washed houses, enjoy your coffee in the little cute shops, get lost in the narrow allies and have your eyes open as worldwide celebrities can be around! At night the town hosts some of the most famous clubs of the island, where alcohol connects the people!

The Windmills

The windmills of Mykonos are the landmark of the island. Located next to the old town, close to the little Venice, they have been used in the past for processing grain, nowadays they remain as a tourist attraction.

Horse Riding

Riding a horse is a fun activity on its own, but riding a horse in Mykonos it is a unique experience! It is a little bit pricy, but worth the try. Riding on the sea, crossing breathtaking landscapes and being the “cowboy of Mykonos” is an unforgettable experience.

Super Paradise Beach

The change of Guards takes place at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) every hour. The guards dressed up with Greek traditional costumes and stand still in front of the statue of the “unknown soldier”. If you are lucky every Sunday at 11 a.m. they make a special parade where the guards marching. Don’t leave the city without a selfie with the guard. He cannot move!

Bars, clubs, nightlife

Let’s be honest. When you hear Mykonos, you imagine endless clubbing, drinks everywhere and wild night life. Amazing bars can be found in the town, such as Scandinavian bar, Caprice and in the outskirts the world famous clubs such as Cavo Paradiso, Paradise club and many others. Most of the beaches also host very vivid and lively beach bars where you can find people drinking and dancing from early in the morning.

Aegean Maritime Museum

When you think of Mykonos for definite you do not think of museums and history, but this one is quite cozy. In a little room you will find the Maritime Museum simple but fascinating. An old lady who speaks only Greek will try in any way to explain you all the things inside… Fortunately there are signs with English translation!

Athens

TRAVEL GUIDE ATHENS

Bored of reading lengthy travel guides and never reach the end? Read our short and to the point “travel guide” of Athens and smash your time! Athens is one of the most historical cities but with a vivid night life. Here we will point out the 10 MUST things to visit in Athens.

The Acropolis

Acropolis is the emblematic archeological sight of Athens. This MUST see “holy mountain” has its origins from the Greek words “ACRO” which means edge and “POLIS” that means town. Acropolis is the rock surrounded by fences built by the ancient Greeks for protection from intrusions, where you can find The Parthenon, The Caryatides and The Herodion Theatre.

 
 

Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus hill the sister mountain of Athens that tries to steal the glory of the famous Acropolis is located just opposite and has a cozy chapel on the top. The best place to take selfie and watch the sunset from the top.

 
 
 

The Acropolis museum

The museum of Acropolis, located below of the actual Acropolis open its gates to the public on 2009. The museum has been awarded and recognized worldwide and attracts the attention of the traveler no matter if he is a history seeker or not. The glass surfaces, the interior design and the exhibits create a unique experience. Don’t miss to do your pit stop at the roof top cafe. Drink your coffee like the ancient Greeks did.

The old Olympic stadium

The old Olympic Stadium known as “Kallimarmaro” is the stadium that the first Olympic Games took place at 1896. The stadium is full of marble (“marmaro” is the Greek word of marble) and is located behind the Syntagma square. You can easily observe it from outside without paying any entrance fee.

Gazi area

Gazi area is the vivid nightlife spot of Athens full of bars, clubs and cafes. You can find all kind of music such as mainstream, house, hip-hop and Greeks and foreigners blend in. It is an area that never sleeps and if you want you can party till dawn!

Monastiraki flea market

Monastiraki area is the new upcoming area of Athens where the square attracts street artists and group of friends hang around. The flea market is near the square where you can find shops and street vendors selling from shoes till Greek antiques. Every Sunday the flea market gets bigger as more street vendor join. Bargain as much as you can!

Hadrian’s arch

The Arch of Hadrian “Apsida tou Adrianou” most commonly known in Greek as Hadrian’s Gate is a monumental gateway resembling – in some respects – a Roman triumphal arch. You can find it in Athens downtown close to the Old Olympic Stadium.

Change of the guards

The change of Guards takes place at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) every hour. The guards dressed up with Greek traditional costumes and stand still in front of the statue of the “unknown soldier”. If you are lucky every Sunday at 11 a.m. they make a special parade where the guards marching. Don’t leave the city without a selfie with the guard. He cannot move!

Anafiotika

Anafiotika is the oldest and picturesque part of Plaka area. Anafiotika located just below Acropolis and maintain alive the old image of Athens. White sugar-cubed houses, narrow pedestrian allies and cozy shops mix up together creating a magical feeling.

Meet our GYROS!

Greeks love it. Tourists love it. The whole world loves it. You are at the place that GYROS has been born and you MUST taste the original one. Greeks called it SOUVLAKI and you can try with different meat inside.