Bursting with rugged landscapes, rich Greek culture and beaches for every occasion, Kefalonia is the perfect setting for a scenic getaway to Greece.
Destination Highlights
Beaches for everyone
Famous for its delish wine - chin chin!
Mouthwatering Mediterranean food (gyros, anyone?)
Home to the caretta-caretta sea turtles
All-singing, all-dancing (literally! This place loves a festival)
What are the best beaches in Kefalonia?
Long, sandy coastlines, dramatic backdrops, and turquoise waters - Kefalonia’s beaches are an exotic paradise all about showing up, and showing out, all 36 of em. There’s something for everyone on this gorge Greek island, but we reckon you should keep these on your radar:
Myrtos - it's the most popular for a reason - the one you've seen splashed across brochures and Insta feeds - with white pebbles, towering hills and lush greenery that make this place a little piece of paradise.
Xi - standing out isn't easy to do in such good company, but with its clear waters and reddish-coloured sand - great for the skin by the way if you fancy a little DIY spa treatment - it's no wonder this is an often flocked to beach.
Skala - long and sandy with colourful seabeds - sun seekers and snorkelers alike are gonna meet their maker here - it's Kefalonias go-to diving spot, and it just can't hide it (or however that song goes).
Makris Gialos - a coastal corner cosying up to the island capital with golden sands, sunbeds and parasols at the ready to keep you occupied - and don't skip out on all the water sports and beach volleyball either.
Lourdas - sand is this islands best-kept secret, or at least it seems that way sometimes, but not here, oh no. One of the few sandy beaches on offer on the island, with shallow, sloping waters perfect for the little ones, and plenty of beach bars and shops within reach if you're looking to make a day of it.
Petani - this beach holds a Blue Flag, which - to you and me - means it's pretty stun. With a white sand-and-pebbled surface and vibrant blue waters, this is the place for the photoshoot... Insta-spam pending.
Antisamos - towering cliffs covered in lush greens provide the perfect backdrop for this popular swim-spot. You might even recognise it as the filming location for some of the scenes in the film Captain Corelli's Mandolin - how's that for a unique selling point!
What are the top hotels in Kefalonia?
From five-star luxury to all-inclusive bliss and cosy, home-from-home apartments, Kefalonia has it all. Here are a few of our fave hotels:
Apostolata Island Resort and Spa - an elegant resort with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, as well as sports facilities and a relaxing spa
Panas Hotel - homely accommodation nestled in the pretty village of Spartia - a great pick if you're looking for good value
Kefalonia Bay Palace - a luxurious, villa-style property with all the modern amenities you could want - from 24" TVs in the rooms to an on-site spa with a sauna and hot tub
Princess - a small, friendly hotel surrounded by nature with private balconies overlooking the sea - ideal for a romantic break with your other half
Regina Dell Acqua Resort- a five-star hotel right alonng the beachfront with stunning architecture, traditional (and delicious!) food, and live music nights
Evita Studios - set among lush green gardens with an outdoor pool and sun terrace, these cosy apartments create the perfect recipe for a laidback holiday
Celestial All Suites - Adults-Only (15+) - it'd be rude of us not to slap something exclusive for the adults - beat the heat in your private pool or treat yourself to the perfect massage.
Kefalonia is a classic Meddy climate - we're talking smokin' hot Summers - where beaches and water sports are your besties - and mild, fun-lovin' Winters when the suncream is still an essential.
Spring leads the fray with temps ranging from the chilly to the toasty - 9°C to 24°C depending on what month you visit. You'll be beating the school holiday crowds and better yet, you'll be able to go for a wander and explore the island without sweating your suncream off.
Kefalonia in Summer is the true star of the show; dry, sunny, hot, iconic - four words that spring to mind. A Summer holiday to Kefalonia is perf for anyone looking for soaring temps of up to 33°C depending on the month - and even when it's cool, it's not really cool with the celsius only dropping to around 18°C.
Things start to cool down during Autumn and Winter, with wetter climes to wash away the Summer heat, but don't confuse this with a cold front, temps can still reach up to 28°C in September and even in the height of Winter, they can reach 14°C - so keep your Malibu suncream at the ready!
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Kefalonia?
It takes about three and a half hours to fly to Kefalonia from the UK.
What's the time difference between the UK and Kefalonia?
Kefalonia is two hours ahead of the time in the UK.
What currency do they use in Kefalonia?
The official currency of Kefalonia is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Kefalonia?
The official language spoken in Kefalonia is Greek.
When's the best time to visit Kefalonia?
If you like it warm, April-October is the best time to visit Kefalonia, with temperatures often sneaking into the thirties during the peak summer season, and settling into the comfortable mid-twenties during spring and autumn.
Is Kefalonia a party island?
While there are a few late-night bars dotted around, Kefalonia is very much a laidback island with a relatively quiet night scene. You might find some night clubs in the capital of Argostoli, but outside of that, the island's nightlife revolves more around lowkey bars and cafés which keep their doors open until late.
Where's the best place to stay in Kefalonia?
Skala is the most developed resort on the island, with decent nightlife, Blue Flag beaches and hotels fit for both adults and kids. For your classic beach holiday, Lassi is also a great shout. It has a modern feel with lots of hotels and self-catering apartments, along with a main strip of bars and restaurants.
Prefer something a bit quieter? Fiskardo is a sleepy harbour town, and it's the perfect place to stay if you're a fan of the slower pace of life. You'll find less tourist traps here and more charming tavernas and little cafés, along with a harbour where you might even spot a few celeb yachts!
Or the Cave of the Nymphs, as it’s known in Greek mythology. Grab your partner and book a boat tour to catch a glimpse of the lush waters that glow blue and green in the sunlight streaming through the hole in its roof - sounds like something from a film or TV show - H20:Just Add Water anyone?
Make the most of the Med
Explore the crystal-clear waters that surround Kefalonia however you fancy - rent a sea kayak or a snorkel, give scuba diving a go, or just sit on the shore and let the waves lap your legs. Whether you're looking for an adventure or a serene afternoon, soak up the paradise that is the Mediterranean Sea.
Jump on a sun cruise
If you're not one for dipping in the sea, but you really fancy getting up close and personal with everything the Med is packing, then keep reading, this one's for you. Glass-bottom boat trips - the perfect way to see creatures of the deep, try to spot dolphins and swim over ancient shipwrecks without having to get your hair wet. Make sure you check locally, these trips usually run throughout the months of May to September.
Get your history hat on
Despite the sun, sea, and sand in Kefalonia being more than enough to win you over, the island also boasts a rich history. Check out cultural hotspots such as the Lighthouse of Saint Theodori, De Bosset Bridge, and Agios Georgios Castle—the ruins of a Venetian stronghold originally built in the Byzantine era - maybe best saved for the cooler months, but still a surefire way to make the most of your day.
Stargazing at the Dark Sky Park of Mount Aenos
By day you can go on hikes through woodland trails and to long abandoned towns, by night you can look at stars light years away at the observatory, or with your naked eye - oh and you can camp here too if you arrange in advance. A nature lovers dream that we're sure takes the cake if you're more about exploring and less about lazing by the pool all day - or maybe you're into both, we won't judge. But, this is definitely not one to miss!
What events can I go to in Kefalonia?
Many festivals and events are held on this picture-perfect island, from religious ceremonies to lush celebrations - take a look at how stacked the year is below, especially that jam-packed summer.
Traditional Music and Dance Performances (January) - start the year off with a bang with these performances that take place throughout taverns and cultural venues - don't miss out on a chance to get immersed in the local culture.
Carnival (February) - this month is the the peak of the festivities with parades, parties, street performances and traditional music that is sure to have you shaking your groove thing and livin' la-like a local.
Spring Festivals (March) - turns out, Greeks loveeee a party - you can expect a tonne of local music, food and activities popping off all over the place to ring in the start of Spring.
Easter (April) - Easter in Kefalonia is a deeply spiritual event, as it is in all of Greece. Celebrations will include folk dances, lunch banquets with whole lambs on the spit, and the painting of eggs which are broken with friends afterwards.
Union of the Ionian Islands (May) - a festival full of music and great food held to celebrate the union of the islands with mainland Greece. Keep an eye out for the marching bands that snake through the capital.
Summer Solstice Celebrations - start Summer is style with a day of celebrations that ring in the longest day, and the toasties months! What better way to celebrate than under the Grecian sun at a beach party, or around a huge bonfire when the sun finally sets.
Agia Efimia Festival (July) - a procession, live music and dancing by the harbour accompany local market stalls in the village of Agia Efimia. Chat to the locals at this welcoming, family-friendly event.
Saristra Festival (August) - a modern Greek art and music festival taking place at the ruins of Old Vlachata, a town destroyed in the 1953 earthquake, with plenty of live bands, and DJs playing everything from Greek rock to indie to dance music.
Colour Festival (August) - the biggest beach party of the year! Find live DJs and buzzing bars at Lourdas this August. Many of the younger locals flock here for a night of dancing on the sand with colourful paints.
Saint Gerasimos Name Day Festival (August) - a religious ceremony celebrating the island’s patron saint’s name day. This festival is often considered the most important event in Kefalonia’s calendar. In fact, pilgrims from all over Greece make their way to St. Gerasimos Monastery to kiss the feet of his mummified remains for a blessing!
Where’s the best nightlife in Kefalonia?
Kefalonia is one of the more mellow Greek islands when it comes to partying - there are no wild strips open all hours, but that doesn't mean you can't still have a good time after sundown. Check out these top spots for dancing, drinking, and chatting the night away:
Captain's Bar - if you're looking for great food and cocktails, then this is the spot for you, complete with friendly staff and sports screens where you can catch the footy!
Bee’s Knees The Bar - artisanal cocktails paired with live music on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Check out Bee’s Knees #6 - a signature drink with saffron-infused local honey!
Eden Bar - in a dreamy garden away from the hustle and bustle, this bar’s wide selection of cocktails paired with its laidback music make it a great place to unwind in the evening
Trentis Bar - with a daily happy hour (including mocktails for the kids), sunset views and screens showing sports, this one's a firm family-fave
Karma Cocktail Bar - a cosy cocktail bar overlooking Skala Beach, with a friendly atmosphere, music and TV screens where you can catch the latest games
Enigma Club - we said no wild strips, but we didn't say no clubs - this spot is the perfect place to dance the night away with DJ sets, live music and themed parties.
What's the food like in Kefalonia?
Fall in love with traditional Greek cuisine on a holiday to Kefalonia. With fresh local veg, fish, and meats complementing the Mediterranean base of wheat, olive oil, and wine - how could you go wrong? Throw on a generous amount of lemon juice, the right herbs and spices, and the Greeks might have us sold on this one... Check out a few of our fav dishes below:
Tzatziki - a staple side dish of yoghurt, cucumber, and herbs - often paired with bread, meat or veg
Moussaka - arguably Greece’s most popular dish (for good reason) - with layers of fried aubergine, potatoes, and minced meat, covered with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden. It's okay. We're drooling too.
Gyros - rotisserie meat, onions, fresh salad, and sauces all lovingly wrapped in a pitta. (Tip: swap out the meat for halloumi if you fancy a veggie version!)
Dolmades - steamed vine leaves stuffed with well-seasoned rice and meat
Baklava - tiny pastries layered with crushed nuts and soaked in a sweet, honey-like syrup
Ouzo - an aniseed-flavoured liquor often taken as a shot at the end of a meal
Looking for somewhere to eat? Check out these top dining spots to try on your holiday to Kefalonia:
Alati All Day Bar & Restaurant - a modern venue right by the sea, with authentic Greek food and fresh seafood on the menu - plus plenty of free space for the kids to have a play!
Captain Nikolas - a family-run taverna with a terrace that overlooks the forest and sea, serving up staples such as pasta, meatballs, seabass and some pretty tempting desserts...
Lorraine’s Magic Hill - situated on the green slopes above Lourdas Beach, we’re big fans of this family-run restaurant, famed for its home-cooking and delicious desserts. Chat with Lorraine herself for a recommendation of which special to go for!
Flamingo - a vine-filled courtyard in the buzzing Skala resort, popular with the youngsters for the butterbean stew and top banter with the lively staff
Drosos Tavern - fish fresh off the boat is served at this affordable and lesser-known gem, but with stunning views on top of all that, there are more reasons to visit this place than just the Red Snapper!
Avil - this delish spot in Fiskardo is the best place to grab stunning seafood and gorge Greek specialities all with outdoor terrace seating overlooking the harbour - sounds like perfect jolly dining to us.
Places to visit
Gentilini Winery & Vineyards
If you're a fan of your vino, then you'll definitely want to stop by this charming, family-run winery. Open every year from Easter to October for tours and tasting (the best part), the friendly staff will tell you everything you need to know about what you're sipping so you feel like a true connoisseur. With an atmosphere that's more relaxed than pretentious, a gorgeously peaceful location and light plates included with the wine (so you can pair your glass of red with some local cheese, grapes, bread and olive oil - 4 ticks), you'll be in for a treat at this gorge Greek gem.
Argostoli Harbour
This peaceful harbour is the hub for all things immaculate vibes with plenty of places to enjoy a relaxing stroll, plenty of restaurants and cafés dotted about if you fancy stopping for a tipple or a bite to eat and even a dash of history thrown in with the De Bosset Bridge we mentioned earlier. Whether you're looking to people-watch, boat-watch, bridge-watch - you name it - this setting is the perfect backdrop for some relaxation. It's a working harbour too, so you'll see plenty of fishing boats coming and going, and if you're lucky you might even spot a turtle or two bobbing up to the surface.
Mount Ainos National Park
This is the only National Park situated on a Greek island, stretching for over 3,000 hectares which - to you and me - is a lot. Home to a forest of unusual fir trees, this park always goes down a treat with nature-lovers, and hikers - you'll have your pick of routes. There's a circular hiking path winding for over 6,000m (around 1 hour and 30 minutes), starting and ending at the Environmental Centre of Ainos, so you won't have to worry about finding your way back. You'll be greeted with plenty of pitstops and rest areas along the way, too - don't worry, all eventualities have been considered, strap on your boots and trust in the process! We promise it'll be worth it for the view.
Key facts about Kefalonia
Flight Time
Around 3.5 hrs
Time Difference
+2 hrs
Currency
Euro
Language
Greek
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Kefalonia?
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Kefalonia?
The Greek Goverment charges a sustainable tourism tax on all overnight stays which will be payable on arrival in the hotel:
