
Holidays in Kefalonia island
Cosmopolitan Kefalonia; the beautiful island of contrasts, dominates the Ionian complex. The forested peaks of Ainos, the luxuriant vegetation, the magnificent caves and the heavenly beaches, combined with the great archaeological sites, the imposing castles, the traditional villages and the picturesque fishing ports fully justify why Kefalonia is every year featured in the list of top summer destinations worldwide.
The capital and port of Kefalonia is noble Argostoli, unfolding in the southern part of the island, at the background of the homonymous bay. Beautiful squares, cobbled walkways and imposing neoclassical buildings are the main features of this city. Trademark of capital is the historic, stone Devosetou Bridge (De Bosset) which connects Argostoli with the opposite shore. The Bridge is ideal for romantic walks, especially in the evenings, overlooking the floodlit Argostoli. In the middle of the bridge, Kolona dominates; an impressive monument in small pyramid shape. Capital’s benchmark is the historic Kambana square, with palm trees and the characteristic clock tower. The heart of Argostoli beats in Lithostroto; the charming pedestrian street with many café/bars and shops. Major attractions in the capital are the Archaeological Museum, Korgialenio Historical and Folklore Museum, the Government House, the Courthouse, "Kefalos" Municipal Theatre of Argostoli and the Cosmetatos’ Mansion. If you are looking for moments of tranquility and relaxation, ideal choice is Napier Park. At the edge of Argostoli bay, the great wetland of Koutavos lagoon unfolds. You can visit the lagoon, see the lush vegetation and the magnificent eucalyptus forest. Do not forget to visit the ancient village of Krani, located on the southeast side of Koutavos lagoon; a stone's throw from the capital.
Continue your journey with a visit to the quiet Lixouri; the second largest town, which unfolds in Paliki peninsula. Enjoy local delicacies in the main square and romantic walks along the picturesque coast. Visit the neoclassical building of the Jacobateion Library, in the courtyard of which cultural events are held during summer. In this peaceful city, you will see major attractions, including Vallianeios Vocational School, Philharmonic School, Saint Charalambos church, Andreas Laskaratos statue as well as the ruins of ancient Pali.
In the northern part of Kefalonia, there is one of the nicest "corners" of the island; the magnificent village of Fiskardo. The colorful houses with the tiled roofs, combined with the fishing and sailing boats huddled in the small anchorage compose a picture of fabulous beauty! An important attraction is the Maritime and Environmental Museum of Fiskardo, which is hosted in the old elementary school. In this charming village, with its cosmopolitan character, you will find stylishly cafés, taverns and shops with beautiful folk art products.
On the north side of the island, the picturesque Assos which unfolds around the homonymous peninsula, lies. Enjoy ouzo or coffee by the sea and visit the Venetian Castle which will take you back in time! The view from the ramparts is stunning, especially at sunset.
This island is a place of infinite natural beauty. The national park of Ainos is the paradise of nature lovers, hosting rare species of flora and fauna. Among the great natural attractions of the island the beautiful grotto of Melissani is included. It is worth taking a boat ride on this idyllic lake with its turquoise waters and admiring the sun's rays as they enter the cave, from the roof. The picture seems to have sprung from a children's fairy tale! Of great interest are also Drogarati and Drakena Caves.
In the seductive island of Kefalonia, landscapes of heavenly beauty are masterfully married with significant archaeological sites, impressive castles, traditional villages and picturesque villages, creating a place full of surprises, contrasts and continuous alternations of images!
The rough terrain of Kefalonia has helped in the creation of many magnificent beaches! Within walking distance from Argostoli, there are the organised, sandy beaches of Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos.
On the north coast of Kefalonia, the multi-photographed Myrtos; one of the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, unfolds! The beach is organized and has wonderful, turquoise waters. Do not leave Myrtos, without enjoying the sunset!
In the northern part of the island, you will find the magnificent Dafnoudi beach, which unfolds in an idyllic, green environment. On the same side of the island, the charming Emplysi creek, the pebbled creek in Alaties and the beautiful pebble beach Foki lie.
On the eastern coast of Kefalonia, at Sami region, there is the stunning beach of Antisamos. It has wonderful, turquoise waters and unfolds beneath lust slopes. Among the most beautiful beaches of the island is Xi beach, famous for its unique, red color of its sand. The beach is organized and is ideal for families with children due to its shallow waters.
In the southern part of Kefalonia, there is the beach of Koroni which is famous for its wonderful sand as well as Skala beach, which unfolds in a beautiful natural environment. In southern Kefalonia, you will find Kaminia beach, with warm, shallow waters whereas on the west coast, there is the beautiful Petani beach, from where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a glorious sunset.
Visiting
- The Archaeological Museum in Argostoli
- Korgialenio Historical and Folklore Museum
- Melissanis cave lake
- The Lantern of Agioi Theodore
- The Botanical Garden
- St. George’s Castle
- Byron’s Rock
- The Italians’ War Memorial in Phanari
- The Mycenaean Domed Tomb of Tzanata
- The Mycenaean Tombs in Lakithra
- The Mycenaean Tombs in Metaxata
- The Mycenaean Tombs in Mazarakata
- The Natural History Museum of Kefalonia and Ithaca in the village of Davgata
- Kipouraion Monastery
- Agios Gerasimos Monastery
- Atros Monastery
- Agia Euphemia
- The Roman Villa of Agia Euphemia
- Poros Village
- Sami
- Sami Archaeological Site
- The Roman baths in Sami
- The Roman baths in Fiskardo
- Skala
- The Roman Villa ruins in Skala
- Vlahata
- Lourdata
- The Island of Ithaca
- The Island of Lefkada
- The Island of Scorpios
Tasting
- Bakaliaropita
- Agkinaropita
- Goat Sofigado
- Rabbit
- Tsigarida
- Hot Garlic Sauce
- Moropoula (Zucchini)
- Mandoles
- Thyme Honey
- Robola Wine
How to get there
From Athens
Travelling by airplane
The fastest way to reach the island of Kefalonia from Athens is to fly there directly from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport or from Thessaloniki, from Macedonia International Airport.
For more information on the flights schedule from Athens click here
Travelling by car or bus and by boat
You can also drive your own car via the National Highway to Patras, or take the Intercity Bus (KTEL Bus of Kefalonia) until you reach the port of Kyllini (approximately 4 hours ride), where you take the ferry-boats to get across to the ports of Poros or Sami (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes trip).
For more information on the bus routes of the KTEL Bus of Kefalonia click here.
For more information on the itineraries visit the companies’ sites:
From Thessaloniki
Travelling by car or bus and by boat
To reach Kefalonia from Thessaloniki, you can drive or take the Intercity Bus (KTEL Bus of Kefalonia) to the port of Kyllini (approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes ride) and then take the ferry-boats to the ports of Poros or Sami (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes trip).
For more information on the bus routes of the KTEL Bus of Kefalonia click here.
Connections with other ports
Kefalonia is connected with the island of Ithaca via the port of Sami, with the island of Lefkada and with the port of Astakos. During summer months there is also a boat line connecting the island with the port of Brindisi in Italy.
Transfer within Kefalonia
To move around the island you can use the Intercity Buses (KTEL Bus of Kefalonia) and taxies. You can also rent a car or a motorcycle from the several rental services on the island. The best way to explore the island and its beauties is in your own private vehicle.
For more information on the bus routes of KTEL Bus of Kefalonia click here.
Medical Care
During your stay in Kefalonia, you can be served for health issues:
General Hospital of Argostoli which is located in the corner of Souidias & Kefalinias street, Tel: (+30) 26710 38000
Hospital of Lixouri, Tel: (+30) 26710 92222
Health Center of Sami, Tel: (+30) 26740 22802
First Aid Station of Sami, Tel: (+30) 26740 22222
Useful phone numbers
Port Authority of Argostoli: (+30) 26710 22224
Port Station of Lixouri: (+30) 26710 94100
Port Station of Poros: (+30) 26710 72460
Port Station of Sami: (+30) 26710 22031
Killini Port Authority: (+30) 26230 92211
Kefalonia Airport: (+30) 26710 41511
Police Station of Argostoli: (+30) 26710 22200
Police Station of Lixouri: (+30) 26710 91207
Police Station of Sami: (+30) 26710 22100
Police Station of Fiskardo: (+30) 26710 41460
Fire Station of Lixouri: (+30) 26710 94199
Fire Station of Sami: (+30) 26740 23199
Airport Fire Station: (+30) 26710 41820
General Hospital of Argostoli: (+30) 26710 38000
Hospital of Lixouri: (+30) 26710 92222
Health Center of Sami (+30) 26740 22802
First Aid Station of Sami: (+30) 26740 22222
Intercity Bus of Argostoli: (+30) 26710 22281
TAXI (Argostoli): (+30) 26710 22261, 22738
TAXI (Lixouri): (+30) 26710 23801
TAXI (Fiskardo): (+30) 26710 51496
View Map