Kefalonia is a stunning greek island in the Ionian Sea with amazing beaches, colorful villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes. We asked Pantelis Kakaris, founder of Geografikoi, one of the best Greek travel blogs out there, and here’s what he suggested not to miss when visiting!
1. Swim at Myrtos Beach
Myrtos is the most famous beach on the island. Its waters are an incredible shade of blue that changes throughout the day depending on the sunlight. The sunset here is magical!
2. Boat Ride in Melissani Lake
A hidden underground lake with crystal-clear waters that looks like something out of a fairytale. At midday, when the sun shines directly through the open cave roof, the view is unforgettable. The underground lake lies 20 meters below ground level, stretching about 160 meters in length, with depths ranging from 10 to 40 meters. According to mythology, the cave was named after the nymph Melissani, who drowned herself here after being rejected by the god Pan. At the center of the lake, archaeologists found ancient offerings dedicated to Pan, suggesting the cave was once a place of worship. Visitors explore the cave by boat, and the best time to visit is at midday when sunlight streams through the collapsed roof, illuminating the water in a mesmerizing blue glow.
3. Enjoy Budget-Friendly Stays
Even in August, you can find great places to stay in Kefalonia at affordable prices, with rooms starting at just €100 per night in beautiful locations like Lixouri, Poros, and Sami.
4. Stroll Through the Streets of Fiskardo
A charming village full of colorful houses, cobbled streets, and a beautiful waterfront promenade—perfect for an evening walk. It’s also the only village that survived the 1953 earthquake intact.
5. Walk Around Assos
A small, lush green village built on a peninsula, connected to the island by a narrow strip of land. The impressive Venetian castle at the top offers stunning panoramic views.
6. Hike Mount Ainos
The tallest mountain in the Ionian Islands and a National Park filled with forests and scenic trails. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the wild horses that live there!
7. Natural Clay Spa at Xi Beach
This beach is famous for its red sand, which is rich in clay. People apply it to their skin before swimming, as it’s known to have natural healing properties.
8. The Turquoise Waters of Petani Beach
Another breathtaking beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters and white pebbles. Some say it’s just as stunning as the famous Porto Katsiki in Lefkada!
9. The Magic of Antisamos
A beach where lush green hills meet deep blue waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling, thanks to the unique underwater landscape created by white pebbles. Fun fact: it was one of the filming locations for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin!
10. Explore Argostoli
The island’s capital is full of lively pedestrian streets, shady squares, and attractions like the Archaeological Museum and the Botanical Garden—great for families and kids.
How to get to Kefalonia from Athens
To travel from Athens to Kefalonia, the most efficient method is to fly directly from Athens International Airport to Kefalonia’s Anna Pollatou Airport, a flight lasting about one hour. These flights are typically available multiple times per day from May to October.
Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus to the port of Kyllini on the western coast of the Peloponnese, approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Athens, and then book your tickets at simferry and catch the ferry to Kefalonia, which takes about 1.5 hours.
This route is particularly useful if you’re traveling outside the flight season or prefer to have your vehicle on the island.
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