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Kefalonia holidays are perfect for that relaxing getaway you’ve been craving. Stunning landscapes, secluded beaches, and charming towns: they’re all part and parcel of the dreamy experience you can expect. The coastline is dotted with little resort towns and sandy beaches (Skala is a firm favourite), as well as the idyllic fishing village of Fiskardo. Spend your days basking in the hot sun or paddle in the sea to your heart’s content - it’s what holidays to Kefalonia are made for!
So, where is Kefalonia? It’s located just off the west coast of mainland Greece, in the Ionian Sea. Take a look at this part of the Med and you’ll see Kefalonia’s actually the largest of the Ionian Islands - even bigger than Corfu, Zante and Lefkas, its famous sisters.
It still feels small and easy to explore, though, with plenty of adventures on your doorstep. Discover Kefalonia (or Cephalonia) on foot as you hike through the verdant hillsides. Follow winding roads on a drive past pretty vineyards to hidden beaches. Take a boat trip onto the underground Melissani Lake. Or rent a sea kayak and make your way around the postcard-perfect coastline.
With so much spectacular scenery to take in, it’s no wonder this beautiful island was chosen as the setting for the Hollywood blockbuster Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
Things to do
For a brilliant day out, take a trip to Myrtos Bay. One of the most picturesque beaches in Greece, it’s a mile-long arc of dazzling white pebble stones and striking limestone cliffs. A truly unspoilt spot, it’s a great place to go if you want to get away from it all.
The island is indeed a beach lover’s paradise, but Kefalonia holidays have much to offer beyond the shorelines. It’s a land of natural beauty wherever you go, from the highest peaks to underground lakes and caves steeped in Greek mythology. Head to Drogarati Cave for an otherworldly experience, or discover some of Greece’s most incredible mountain caves over at Mount Ainos. If you’re feeling energetic, you could also climb to the top, and look out for an abundance of wildlife and exotic birds along the way.
But that’s not all. You’ll find plenty more to keep you busy on holiday in Kefalonia, including all kinds of cultural and archaeological sites. Don’t forget to sample some authentic Greek cuisine - you’ll find lots of lovely local tavernas and restaurants serving up fresh seafood.
Kefalonia’s chalk-white beaches
Surrounded by bottle-green pine forests and calm turquoise water, the white beaches on Kefalonia’s coastline are among the most beautiful across all of the Ionian Islands. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, snorkelling or diving, there are plenty of reasons to take a holiday to one of its beach resorts.
Characterised by tranquil waters and an impressive natural backdrop, Antisamos Beach is a particular favourite among visitors. This sublime location is neatly organised with sunbeds and umbrellas where you can settle down and enjoy a cocktail or delve into a good book. Situated just a few kilometres from the Port of Sami, it offers unbeatable views and a glorious atmosphere.
Or spend a relaxing afternoon down at Makris Gialos Beach, one of the most popular in Kefalonia. Here you can sample a range of exciting watersports or simply lie back on the soft sands and watch the world go by. Get stuck into some delicious food from one of the many bars scattered around the edge of the beach - some even deliver straight to your sunbed, for the ultimate in chilled-out lunches.
For a truly memorable experience, take a stroll along Kaminia Beach, where you may be lucky enough to see the endangered loggerhead turtles that nest here in the summer. Whether you fancy a dip in the shallow waters or a picnic on the golden sands, it’s an ideal choice for young families and couples alike.
Rich culture in Argostoli
Kefalonia’s island capital, Argostoli, is also its cultural centre. So, this is the place to experience colourful festivals, parades and outdoor performances, whatever time of year you’re on holiday. Among the highlights of the summer calendar is the annual International Music Festival, where you can hear everything from the local kantades serenades to performers from around the world. This bayside town is also home to a fascinating archaeological museum, with ancient artefacts from the Trojan Wars, and another focused on folklore. That’s where you should head to find out more about Kefalonia’s Venetian era, its 1953 earthquake and all sorts in between.
Meanwhile, the town square is bursting with charming tavernas, open-air cafés, and quaint hotels, making for a great atmosphere in summer, when the weather in Kefalonia encourages everyone outside. It’s just the spot to sample a glass of the famous Robola wine, produced in the island’s wineries, while you’re people-watching!
Skala resort town
Take a trip to the southeast of the island and lively Skala Town. Whether you prefer a laid-back bar for an after-dinner ouzo or two, or are looking for cocktails and nightclubs, Skala’s a popular destination for couples of all ages. Ready for some sightseeing? This former fishing village is brimming with Greek charm and surrounded by beautiful scenery. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby that lead into the mountains, as well as ancient Roman ruins - including a 3rd-century villa.
The three-kilometre beach is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. And you can always grab a sun lounger if you’re taking things at a slower pace or need a base for playing with the kids. Either way, you’ll be ready for a hearty dinner at the end of the day. Choose from the tavernas and restaurants lining the seafront for a taste of traditional Greek cuisine. Mezze’s an easy family favourite with lots of different dishes for everyone to try. Or how about pairing stuffed peppers with succulent souvlaki kebabs?
Places to stay
Just three kilometres from the island’s lively capital town Argostoli, you’ll find the holiday resort of Lassi, known for its clifftop hotels and incredible sea views. Take your pick from the sandy, untouched beaches nearby for a touch of romance, or just head straight to Lassi’s own Blue Flag beach.
The peaceful fishing village of Katelios remains a nature lover’s favourite. It’s ringed by the turquoise-coloured sea on one side and a green hiking trail on the other. You’ll be captivated by the old water mills and natural springs. If you’re planning an escape with your other half, it’s a fantastic choice for couples who love to explore - and also for groups of friends and solo travellers.
And if you’re a sucker for an amazing sunset, you’re going to want to book a stay in Sami. Make your way to the pretty lighthouse for a spectacle that’s made this harbourside town a winning choice for holidays to Kefalonia. The orange-coloured horizon and swimming dolphins steal the show here, right before the sun dips into the waters off the west coast. What a way to end a wonderful day!
More travel guides
Take a look at our guides to popular destinations in Kefalonia, including Katelios | Lassi | Sami | Skala
Kefalonia’s Mediterranean climate makes it a favourite year-round destination.
Kefalonia International Airport (LGKF / EFL).
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You’ll find this relatively unspoilt Greek island in the Ionian Sea, a stretch of the Mediterranean to the west of mainland Greece. This picturesque destination is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is situated south of Lefkas (Lefkada) and north of Zante (Zakynthos).
As well as its own airport, Kefalonia has a number of ferry services and boat trips to other islands (including Ithaca, home of Odysseus), if you can tear yourself away from its eye-catching scenery and postcard-perfect beaches.
Everywhere on the island is simply lovely, so it can be hard to know where to stay. Here are some of our favourite places in Kefalonia, each with its own charm and character:
• Argostoli: It’s the island capital so pick a hotel in Argostoli if you want to be in the heart of the action. The atmosphere’s bustling, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s also a great place to base yourself if you want to explore further, as this coastal town is quite central.
• Lassi: A seaside resort on Kefalonia’s west coast, Lassi has a long stretch of sand, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of hotels to choose from. It’s also one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for a beach holiday near Argostoli as it’s only 2 km away by road.
• Skala: Located on the southeastern side of the island, Skala has one of the best beaches in Kefalonia, a Roman villa, and nearby wineries. You’ll also be close to the spectacular Drogarati Caves.
• Katelios: Looking for peace and quiet? Kefalonia’s full of destinations that fit the bill, and Katelios is our top pick. A pretty fishing village, you can chill in its tavernas and tuck into the catch of the day. Amongst its beaches, Mounda is so tranquil it’s a protected turtle nesting site!
• Sami: Set on Kefalonia’s east coast, the port town of Sami is known for its ancient acropolis, buzzing harbour and the stunning Antisamos Beach. You can also take the ferry to the idyllic island of Ithaca, which is just across the water from here.
Yes, Kefalonia’s not only beautiful, it’s also packed with things to do, especially if you prefer a more laid-back holiday.
3 of the best things to do in Kefalonia:
1. Visit the famous beauty spot, Myrtos Beach.
2. Stroll around the super-cute village of Fiskardo.
3. Take a boat trip to secluded beaches or across to Ithaca.
Top things to do in Kefalonia for families:
1. Play on the beach – Lourdas, Skala and Trapezaki are some of the best for kids.
2. Visit the sharks and octopuses at Kefalonia Marine World Aquarium.
3. Soak up the music, dancing, food and crafts at one of the island’s many cultural festivals.
The most fun things to do in Kefalonia:
1. Explore the rugged terrain on a jeep safari.
2. Take a winery tour. Gentilini Vineyards and the Kefalonia Wine Collective are two of the best.
3. Give Greek dancing a go! You’ll have your pick of lively performances to inspire you.
Unusual things to do in Kefalonia:
1. Hear a local singer among the stalagmites and stalactites of Drogarati Caves – it’s a stunning experience.
2. Explore the abandoned village of Old Vlachata, destroyed by the 1953 earthquake.
3. Go night diving: a total must-do for experienced scuba divers. You could see squid, lobsters and octopuses, amongst other sea life.
It’s not a huge concern but there are even things to do if it rains!
1. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, whose exhibits date back to ancient times.
2. Learn how to make traditional Greek dishes with a cooking class run by a local chef.
3. Relax in a spa. There are lots around the island offering a range of treatments and therapies, maybe even in your hotel.
Peaceful and relatively small, Kefalonia’s one of the mid-range Greek islands when it comes to costs. Like anywhere, there are places where prices are higher than others, such as the must-visit village of Fiskardo, but overall you should find it easy to keep control of your holiday spends.
Top tips for cheap holidays to Kefalonia:
1. There’s a great choice of holidays, from low-cost packages to high-end treats. Even some of the more luxurious hotels can be reasonably priced, so don’t assume you’ll only have 3 star hotels or Self Catering to choose from.
2. Travel just outside the peak season for the most budget-pleasing prices – the weather’s really nice in May/June and September/October, but it’s less busy so your accommodation and flights are likely to be cheaper.
3. Find out where the locals like to eat. Kefalonia has loads of tavernas, cafes and restaurants offering tasty dishes for a range of prices. Make sure you try the delectable tiropita cheese pie!
4. Check out the public transport. There’s a network of bus routes between the main towns and villages so you might not need a taxi or hire car to get where you want to go.
5. Find free things to do: from local festivals to coastal walks, days on the beach to mountain hikes, there’s plenty you can do without breaking the bank.
Yes, though not as many as in some destinations. Kefalonia’s known as a relatively untouched island, so it’s popular for exploring and experiencing the traditional atmosphere, but you can still find some lovely All Inclusive hotels where you can unwind by the pool with a cocktail and tuck into mouthwatering buffets.
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