20 BEST Issues To Do In Kefalonia, Greece

Kefalonia (Kefallinia or Cephallonia) is an idyllic Greek island within the Ionian Sea. Recognized for its various magnificence and breathtaking seashores, visiting right here looks like dwelling in paradise. It’s the biggest islet within the space, marked by towering mountain peaks, cerulean waters, and historic cities.

It’s well-known each for its wine and laid-back, pleasant really feel. With a lot to see and do right here, you’ll wish to learn up on all the very best spots for any itinerary with this listing of the finest issues to do in Kefalonia, Greece. 

The place is Kefalonia?

Earlier than we dig into the very best issues to do in Kefalonia, let’s pinpoint the placement! Kefalonia is a big Ionian Island and a preferred vacation spot for summer time vacationers to Greece. It’s near different islands like Zakynthos, Lefkada, and Ithaca.

Like the opposite Ionian Islands Kefalonia is blessed with lush forests, dizzying mountains, and dramatic cliff drops that lead straight into the great blue sea.

The principle airport, Kefalonia Worldwide Airport is positioned close to Argostoli and Lassi, and is a small island airport. There are flights to Italy, Athens, the UK, and loads of locations round Europe.

Finest Issues to do in Kefalonia

1. Mount Aenos

Mount Aenos is the tallest mountain on the entire island at over 5,000 ft excessive. There’s a nationwide park round it that provides a couple of completely different hikes on round trails all with completely different ranges of issue.

The sweeping panoramas from the highest stretch over the island uninterrupted so far as the attention can see and are nicely value any climb. Black pine and Greek fir forests cowl the facet.

The summit known as Mega Soros and it’s simply the most well-liked viewpoint to take pleasure in right here. We like to pack a picnic and spend the day right here absorbing all of the surroundings and sunshine. 

2. Antisamos Seashore

Considered one of Kefalonia’s greatest attracts is its assortment of pristine shores to discover. Antisamos Seashore is definitely a favourite cove on the island, and one of many finest seashores in Greece. It’s surrounded by excessive forested hills and as an alternative of sand, it’s lined in small white pebbles.

The water right here is crystal clear, making it the right candidate for some snorkeling. It’s well-known for showing within the acclaimed movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.

There are a couple of bars the place you may seize a drink and a chew in addition to a few loungers to hire for final consolation whereas sunbathing. 

3. Melissani Cave

Melissani Cave will be the island’s best pure surprise and top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia. Right here you’ll discover a placing azure lake beneath tall cavern partitions. There’s a gap on the prime the place the solar can shine onto the glowing floor.

You possibly can take a guided boat tour to stand up near the numerous geological marvels inside like stalactites. It’s finest to go at noon for the right photograph ops, and it’s laborious to not wish to snap one million pics right here. It will possibly get busy with different vacationers but it surely’s nicely value a brief wait or full boat to expertise this magnificent gem. 

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4. Makris Gialos Seashore

Makris Gialos seashore is most identified for its luxurious consolation, cleanliness, and group. Whereas it lacks a number of the rugged great thing about different Kefalonia seashores, it makes up for it with handy facilities.

It has a vacationer resort sort of vibe and is well accessible. You’ll be capable of take pleasure in scrumptious meals and drinks delivered proper to your solar lounger from any of the refined seashore bars on the golden sandy shore right here.

There’s additionally a variety of water sports activities you can check out on the crystal-clear seas similar to kayaking. The calm and heat waves make it perfect for swimming as nicely.

5. Agios Georgios Fortress

Set simply Southeast of Argostoli, is the spectacular property often known as Agios Georgios Fortress. These romantic ruins had been based by the Byzantines method again within the twelfth century. A lot of the remaining structure is from when it was a Venetian stronghold within the sixteenth century.

It was even the capital of Kefalonia till the mid-1700s. You possibly can discover historical citadels and Medieval church buildings all whereas having fun with beautiful vistas of each the distant mountains and huge ocean. 

6. Drogarati Cave

Questioning what to do in Kefalonia and on the lookout for one thing slightly completely different? The Drogarati Cave was first found within the early 1700s after an earthquake made it seen for the primary time. It’s identified for the unusual rock formations you will discover deep down throughout the cavern, similar to each stalactites and stalagmites, that are fashioned over the course of thousands and thousands of years.

The Chamber of Exaltation is the declare to fame of this pure marvel each for its sheer dimension and its spectacular acoustics. It’s additionally a good way to flee the Greek warmth and funky down slightly, particularly in the summertime months. 

7. Petani Seashore

Petani is an undisturbed slice of paradise alongside the west coast of the island. It provides a extra rugged and actual seashore expertise, full with clear turquoise waters and a pebbly shore. It’s additionally encircled by dramatic limestone cliffs, giving it a distant and secluded setting.

Test how uneven the surf is earlier than leaping in, the waves can get tremendous large right here. Although on a peaceful day, it’s perfect for a refreshing dip. There are a couple of solar decks and umbrellas to chill out beneath right here, in addition to parking areas and restroom amenities. 

8. Myrtos Seashore

One other scenic stretch of shoreline in Kefalonia is Myrtos Seashore. Heading right here is well top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia. It could look acquainted because it’s some of the photographed spots in all of Greece, although footage can’t absolutely seize the placing great thing about this seashore.

It’s set between two towering mountainsides and the shimmering blue of the ocean is mesmerizing. It’s about half a mile lengthy and as an alternative of sand, you’ll see marbled pebbles. There are solar loungers to hire and relaxation on. You should definitely cease on the viewpoint up prime earlier than heading right down to the precise seashore for jaw-dropping vistas. 

9. Assos

Assos is probably going probably the most charming little village on the island. It’s positioned on the hillsides of a pure harbor and surrounded by vibrant greenery. There are solely about 100 inhabitants dwelling on this tiny borough.

Pastel-colored homes line the waterfront, together with a smattering of cute bars, taverns, and cafes. The views from the highest of the city are attractive and wandering the winding streets here’s a pretty strategy to spend a day in Kefalonia.  

10. Day Journey to Ithaca

Ithaca is one other small island that’s solely a brief distance away from the coasts of Kefalonia. It’s simple to get an inexpensive ferry from Sami to take you up near this sea surrounded treasure, making it the right day journey. Right here there are two peninsulas linked solely by an isthmus.

The principle port, referred to as Vathy, has smaller boats you can hire to discover the cove-filled shoreline. Onshore, you may hike to the highest of a number of of the peaks right here, similar to Pernarakia or Kathara, and indulge in breathtaking panoramas looking over Kefalonia and past. Our favourite city in Ithaka is Kioni, and we extremely suggest visiting because it’s one of many finest issues to do in Ithaca.

Ithaca can also be legendary for being the legendary house of Odysseus as nicely. Speak about epic! 

11. Sami

Talking of Sami, this city is value a go to whether or not you’re in want of a ferry or not. It’s positioned on the Japanese facet of the island and is pretty giant in dimension in comparison with a number of the different villages in Kefalonia.

We like to wander the historic port right here and luxuriate in a leisurely lunch at one of many charming eating places or taverns. The Venetian structure alongside the scenic oceanfront is just marvelous. You possibly can even go to the acropolis set simply behind Sami and study extra concerning the wealthy historical past of the area. 

12. Argostoli

Argostoli is the most important city in and the capital of Kefalonia. The harbor is at all times a bustling and picturesque scene, particularly at dawn when the fishing boats are all coming in with their recent catch. The promenade is a good looking strategy to take pleasure in a waterfront stroll at any time of day as nicely.

Generally you may even spot sea turtles within the waves right here! Cine Anny can also be on this metropolis, an open-air cinema that’s a lot enjoyable to catch a flick at. The Argostoli Archeology Museum at all times makes for an academic and fascinating expertise as nicely. It’s such an ideal place to buy regionally made merchandise too. 

13. Fteri Seashore

Fteri is likely one of the extra wild and unique seashores on this Greek island. It boasts all of the trademark great thing about the Kefalonia shores: white pebbles, crystalline waters, lush greenery, and limestone peaks.

It’s some of the undisturbed areas on the island, and as such is taken into account probably the most idyllic. Since there’s no precise highway that may entry it, you’ll must stroll the scenic mountain path to reach or take a taxi boat from Agia Kyriaki. As a extra distant seashore, you’ll must deliver all your individual provides with you to this one too. 

14. Fiscardo 

Additionally referred to as Foki Seashore, Fiscardo is a picture-perfect cove and a historic fishing village in Kefalonia. It’s a small little bit of shoreline with loads of pure shade, which actually is useful for the reason that solar can get so sturdy.

It’s the northernmost port on the island and a pleasant spot to observe the boats go out and in. The glassy waterfront is lined with bakeries, cafes, taverns, and artwork retailers. It looks like a visit again in time with lots of the unique houses and impartial shops from even earlier than the notorious 1953 earthquake that just about leveled the whole island.

15. De Bosset Bridge

De Bosset, often known as Deprano, is the longest stone bridge that’s been constructed over the ocean in the whole world! It’s nicely value seeing and having fun with a calming stroll alongside as nicely.

It was first constructed within the early 1800s to make villages across the bay extra accessible. Each side boast spectacular views out over the glowing lagoon waters. It’s an particularly fashionable spot for sundown and there are sometimes sea creatures like turtles you can see as nicely so hold your eyes peeled. 

16. Skala Seashore

Skala is likely one of the longest sandy seashores positioned on the southern finish of the island. It’s identified for having clear blue waters out in entrance and dense inexperienced hills behind. Snorkeling here’s a favourite pastime and there’s loads of fish to seek out.

Many additionally head out on the open waters to discover hidden ocean caves on a ship tour from this shore. It’s filled with seashore bars and superb eateries, so it’s simple to spend a complete day right here. 

17. Vineyard Tour 

Kefalonia is legendary for its wine and top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia is go to a vineyard. You received’t wish to go away this island with out a minimum of attempting it. The custom of crafting this grape-based drink is alleged up to now all the way in which again to the Neolithic period.

Robalo is a white wine with notes of fruit and honey that’s coveted all all over the world and made completely on this island. There are a number of vineyards the place you may tour and style this native nectar. Try Orealios, Gentilini, Sclavos, or Haritatos wineries whereas right here. 

18. Katavothres

The Katavothres, or sinkholes, of Kefalonia, are a geological surprise that may’t ever be absolutely defined to today! It’s a novel web site not like another. It’s thought that they’re an advanced sequence of underground caves and passageways beneath the island.

The nice and cozy ocean waters rush onto shore by means of the rocks and easily disappear. They find yourself within the majestic Melissani Lake earlier than returning to again the ocean. The facility of the ocean right here was as soon as used as free electrical energy for mills and the large wheel constructed to harness it could possibly nonetheless be seen. 

19. Karavomilos

Karavomilos is an astonishing and enchanting physique of water that can also be extraordinarily distinctive. It’s positioned within the west a part of Sami and was initially just a bit fishing village.

In the present day, the lake is made up of 99% recent water, regardless of being completely fed by the katavothres. Inside native lore, it’s shrouded in legend and thriller which makes it all of the extra alluring when you ask us. You may as well see so many species of geese dwelling right here! 

20. Xi Seashore

Xi Seashore is called for its distinctive X form. Its red-colored sand additionally helps it to face out and it’s some of the fashionable coves on the island for locals and guests alike. The waters are extra shallow so usually households with youthful youngsters will go because it’s simpler for them to swim.

White clay cliffs are throughout this scenic shoreline. It’s even conventional to rub the clay in your physique after which rinse it within the sea. It’s stated to be good in your pores and skin and looks like such a enjoyable DIY spa expertise. 

Finest Eating places in Kefalonia

• Captain Nikolas (Paliki): Top-of-the-line issues to do in Kefalonia is consuming at a Conventional Greek Taverna. Captain Nikolas is likely one of the best-reviewed eating places on the island and for good purpose!
• Olive Lounge Bar & Restaurant: Superb view paired with tantalizing meals. A few of the finest you will see on Kefalonia – reservations advisable.
• Esperides Restaurant: Stunning setting with an ideal wine listing!

Finest Issues to do in Kefalonia

Get Round Kefalonia

The easiest way to get round Kefalonia is with a rental automotive. The island is fairly giant and if you wish to get to all these Kefalonia points of interest it’s best to have a automotive. We usually hire a automotive on each Greek island we go to.

Expertise driving in Greece is useful, as I can virtually assure the roads on the Ionian Islands are nothing like driving again the place you’re from. Roads are winding and sometimes dilapidated. You possibly can see our suggestions for renting a automotive in Greece right here.

How Many Days Ought to You Spend on Kefalonia?

Three days would offer you a superb grip on the island and allow you to take pleasure in a couple of of the very best issues to do in Kefalonia, however certainly not every part.

I might suggest a minimum of 5 days on the island so that you aren’t operating ragged across the island attempting to do as a lot as potential. That provides you sufficient time to chill out whereas nonetheless taking in all the fantastic thing about the island!

Is Kefalonia Secure?

As with most Greek Islands, Kefalonia could be very secure. The Greeks are a number of the most hospitable individuals on the earth, and there’s little or no crime on the islands.

Relaxation assured figuring out you’ll have a secure expertise in Kefalonia. In fact, at all times take regular precautions when touring.

Is Kefalonia Value Visiting?

Many declare Kefalonia as probably the most lovely Greek island. Whereas this definitely subjective, there isn’t any double that Kefalonia is beautiful and completely value visiting. You sure received’t remorse including Kefalonia to your Ionian itinerary.

When is the Finest Time to Go to Kefalonia?

The most effective time to go to Kefalonia and the Greek Islands, normally, is in Might and September when the climate is sunny and gentle, however summer time tourism is just not at its peak. June, July, and August are the busiest months on the Ionian Islands and are when you will see larger costs and loads of individuals.

My favourite time to go to Greece is at all times September. Come October issues will begin to be winding down for the season and by November many eating places and companies will shut till April when it’s excessive season once more.

When is the Finest Time To Go to Greece?

Get Across the Greek Islands

Kefalonia Worldwide Airport is one of the simplest ways to entry the island. It’s nicely linked to many main locations round Europe, like Vienna and Berlin.

It’s additionally potential to attach Kefalonia by way of ferry to the opposite Ionian Islands like Corfu, Zakynthos, and Ithaki. There may be additionally a semi-regular service to Bari (Italy). We suggest checking schedules on Ferry Hopper.

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I hope you loved this information on issues to do in Kefalonia! Hopefully, you discovered it helpful. Listed here are a couple of related articles for extra journey round Greece!