Best Things to Do on Kefalonia

Greece Travel Secrets picks the best things to do on Kefalonia, including beaches, caves, pretty villages, wineries, monasteries, museums and hikes.

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands in western Greece, is a paradise of pristine beaches, charming villages, and fascinating historical sites. One of the best experiences on Kefalonia is simply exploring its diverse landscapes, from the towering Mount Ainos to the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea.

Kefalonia LandscapeKefalonia Landscape

Best Things to Do on Kefalonia

Start your adventure at Myrtos Beach, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its white pebbles, turquoise waters, and surrounding cliffs create a breathtaking panorama. It's the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the view. It's on the west coast about midway between Argostoli and Fiskardo. More information can be found on Wikipedia.

Myrtos Beach on KefaloniaMyrtos Beach on Kefalonia

For history buffs, the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli is a must-visit. It houses a rich collection of artifacts from the Mycenaean, Hellenistic, and Roman periods, offering a glimpse into Kefalonia's ancient past. It's located at 12 Kavvadias Street, Argostoli, and their phone number is +30 2671 028400.

Explore the fascinating Melissani Cave, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and a lake that changes color with the sunlight. Boat tours are available, offering a unique way to experience this geological marvel. The cave's not too far from Sami, on the east coast. Visit melissani-cave.com for more details.

Melisssani Cave on KefaloniaMelisssani Cave on Kefalonia

Take a leisurely stroll around Fiskardo (or Fiscardo), a picturesque fishing village with colorful Venetian-style houses, waterfront cafes, and a bustling marina. It's a great place to sample local cuisine and enjoy the laid-back island life, at the northern tip of the island. Definitely one of the best things to do on Kefalonia, and you can find more information at fiscardo.com.

Colourful House in Fiskardo on KefaloniaColourful House in Fiskardo on Kefalonia

For a taste of Kefalonia's lively culture, visit the Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum in Argostoli. It showcases traditional costumes, household items, and photographs, providing a fascinating insight into the island's rural life in the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is located at 12 Rizospaston Voulevard, Argostoli, and their phone number is +30 2671 028400.

Hiking enthusiasts will love the Mount Ainos National Park, home to Kefalonia's highest peak (1,628 meters/5,341 feet). The park offers several trails with stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea. It's also home to the unique Kefalonian Fir tree. For more information, visit visitgreece.gr.

Forest of Cork Trees in Mt Ainos National Park on KefaloniaForest of Cork Trees in Mt Ainos National Park

Experience the water sports at Makris Gialos Beach. From jet-skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding and snorkeling, there's something for everyone. The beach is located in Lassi, in the south of the island.

Visit the Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, the patron saint of Kefalonia. This sacred site is a place of pilgrimage and offers a serene atmosphere amidst beautiful surroundings. It's located at Omala, about a half-hour drive east of Argostoli, and their phone number is +30 2671 088911.

Explore the Drogarati Cave, a 150-million-year-old natural wonder known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It's also famous for its excellent acoustics, making it a unique venue for concerts. It's a five-minute drive south from Sami. Visit greeka.com for more information.

Take a boat trip to the nearby island of Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus. It's a great opportunity to explore another beautiful but much smaller Ionian island, with its own unique charm. Boat trips can be booked through various local operators and there are regular ferries from Sami and from Fiskardo..

Ithaca in the Ionian Islands of GreeceIthaca in the Ionian Islands of Greece

Visit the Castle of Saint George, a 16th-century Venetian fortress offering panoramic views of the island. It's a great place to learn about Kefalonia's history and enjoy a scenic picnic. The castle is located near Peratata, a few kilometers east from Lassi.

For wine lovers, a visit to the Robola Wine Cooperative is a must. Here, you can learn about the island's winemaking tradition, tour the vineyards, and sample the famous Robola wine. The winery is located at Omala, a half-hour drive east from Argostoli, and their phone number is +30 2671 082111.

Touring the Robola Winery on KefaloniaTouring the Robola Winery on Kefalonia

Enjoy a relaxing day at Antisamos Beach, a stunning pebble beach with crystal clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery. It's also the location of several scenes from the movie Captain Corelli's Mandolin. The original book is set on Kefalonia.

Visit the Kefalonia Botanica, a beautiful garden showcasing the island's diverse flora. It's a peaceful place to enjoy a leisurely walk and learn about local plant species. The garden's in Argostoli and their phone number is +30 2671 025930.

Take a bike tour around the island to explore its scenic countryside, charming villages, and hidden beaches. Several local companies offer bike rentals and guided tours. More information can be found at samitrekking.com..

Best Kefalonia Guide

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Visit the De Bosset Bridge in Argostoli, the longest stone bridge over the sea in the world. It's a great place for a leisurely walk, with beautiful views of the Koutavos Lagoon and the town.

Explore the ruins of the Ancient City of Sami, an important archaeological site dating back to the Paleolithic era. It's a great place to learn about the island's ancient history. The site is located near Sami, about halfway up the east coast, and more information can be found at greeka.com.

Enjoy a traditional Greek meal at one of the island's many tavernas. Try local specialties like Kefalonian meat pie, fresh seafood, local cheeses, and local wines. Our favourite eating spot is difficult to choose but it's hard to beat Tassia's on the harbour at Fiskardo with views across to Ithaca. We've eaten there several times and never been disappointed. Their phone number is +30 2674 041130.

Dining by the Harbour in Tassia's Restaurant in Fiskardo on KefaloniaDining by the Harbour in Tassia's Restaurant in Fiskardo on Kefalonia

Visit the Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi, a distinctive circular building offering beautiful views of the sea. It's a great place to watch the sunset. The lighthouse is a few kilometres north of Argostoli, about an hour's walk. Just keep going till you run out of land!

Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi on KefaloniaLighthouse of Saint Theodoroi on Kefalonia

Take a scuba diving trip to explore Kefalonia's underwater world. The island's clear waters are home to a rich marine life and several interesting dive sites. Several local companies offer diving courses and trips, including kefaloniadivingcenter.gr.

Visit the Natural History Museum of Kefalonia and Ithaca, a great place to learn about the island's diverse flora and fauna. The museum is located at Davgata, a 15-minute drive north of Argostoli, and their phone number is +30 2671 085300.

Enjoy a horse riding tour through Kefalonia's beautiful countryside, or along the beaches. It's a unique way to explore the island's scenic landscapes and traditional villages. More information can be found at kefaloniashorseridingstable.com..

Our Pick of Greek Islands Guides

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Visit the Monastery of Panagia Atrou, one of the oldest monasteries in Kefalonia. It's a peaceful place with beautiful frescoes and stunning views of the sea. The monastery is located near Poros on the east coast, and their phone number is +30 2674 072230.

Explore the Venetian-style Assos Castle, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the village of Assos and the sea. It's a great place for a scenic hike. More details can be found here.

Assos Castle on KefaloniaAssos Castle on Kefalonia

Finally, support the work of the Sea Turtle Protection Society in Argostoli, where you can learn about these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts to protect them. Contact them through their website, and their phone number is +30 2671 022593.

So there you have it. Our pick of the best things to do on Kefalonia. They should keep you busy for a while!

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