If you’re wondering, “How long does it take to drive around Kefalonia?” I suggest taking a week to explore the island entirely. With this What to Do in Kefalonia Itinerary, you’ll discover the perfect way to spend seven days on the island. It balances relaxation with exploring the lesser-known areas, helping you make the most of your time.
Is Kefalonia worth visiting? Absolutely!
The beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia, part of Greece’s Ionian Islands, is surrounded by azure waters and quaint villages waiting to be explored. The film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin made Kefalonia famous for its beaches, and rightfully so. What is it like there? With some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes, Kefalonia has unique beaches and crystalline water.
Many people come to the island to see the sweeping bay of Myrtos Beach or the red sands of Xi Beach, but there is a lot more to Kefalonia than just its coastline.
Quick Tip: Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.
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Best Kefalonia Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Kefalonia
What to Do in Kefalonia Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Explore Argostoli Town
You’ll most likely arrive in Kefalonia via the airport, which is a short drive from Argostoli. Argostoli is a popular area in Kefalonia, as it is close to the airport, has beautiful beaches nearby, has a lively atmosphere, and is well connected to other areas of the island. Whether or not you stay here, it makes a great first stop on your Kefalonia itinerary.
Start your day by visiting the turtles that live in the harbor waters. Then, walk through the charming streets with shops and cafes, including the Lithostroto, a shopping marble walkway. For a glimpse into the island’s rich history, head to the Archeological Museum of Argolstili, where you can see artifacts from ancient times.
If beaches are more your thing, head to Makris Gialos, the best sandy beach just a few minutes away from the town center by taxi. And don’t miss the opportunity to cross the historic De Bosset Bridge, an architectural gem dating back to 1813. It provides lovely views of the surrounding area and is particularly special during sunset.
Day 2: Relax on Myrtos Beach and Explore Fiskardo and Assos Villages
Is Kefalonia nice for beach lovers? You must spend at least one day enjoying Kefalonia’s gorgeous coastline! On your second day in Kefalonia, you’ll visit some of the island’s most beautiful points. Begin by heading to Myrtos Beach. Its dramatic cliffs make for an impressive backdrop to the turquoise waters and white sands. Spend your morning switching between sunbathing and cooling off in the waters. The water is so clear you can see right through, so bring a snorkel and goggles to get an even better view of the sea life surrounding you.
After soaking up the sun and before the midday heat gets too exhaustive, head towards the picturesque villages of Fiskardo and Assos. Fiskardo is located on the island’s northern tip and was the only area to survive the earthquake in 1953. This means it is filled with beautiful Venetian-style houses that give you a glimpse of historic Kefalonia. The quaint waterfront is filled with restaurants serving fresh seafood. Grab lunch here and watch as elegant yachts and fishing boats dock in and out. Then, grab some ice cream for a post-lunch snack and a cool-down
Later on in the afternoon, venture to Assos. This is a much smaller village with narrow streets lined with colorful houses. If you fancy a hike, head up to the ruins of the Venetian castle. The walk takes about 30 minutes along a shaded path with incredible views. It also has two small pebble beaches, perfect for a final dip in the sea of the day.
Day 3: Discover Melissani Cave, Sami, and Antismos Beach
If you’re wondering what to do in Kefalonia on your third day, take the time to visit the beautiful Melissani cave. It is one of the top things to do in Kefalonia, and rightly so. Located just near Sami, this underground cave is lit by a natural hole in the ceiling, letting in the most incredible sunlight. The only way to visit the cave is by boat, which will take you into the center of the lake so you can look up to the sun above. However, as a popular destination, head here early to take advantage of the shorter queues.
After the cave, head to Sami. This coastal town is a lively spot with great restaurants. Spend an hour or two exploring, grab lunch in a local taverna, and then head to Antisamos Beach. Renowned for its crystal-clear seas and pristine pebble shores, this is another of Kefalonia’s best beaches. Enjoy the rest of your day swimming in the refreshing waters and soaking up the sun.
Quick Tip: View my full Europe packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Europe Essentials shopping list here.
Day 4: Adventure to and Skala Town
On your fourth day in Kefalonia, first head to the small but stunning cove of . While it’s a steep climb down to reach the beach, it’s worth it. Being slightly out of the way means it is one of the less tourist-visited beaches, and you can explore the ethereal caves in relative peace. Bring your goggles and a good waterproof camera to capture the incredible picturesque sights.
After you’ve spent your morning relaxing and exploring the cave’s rocks, head to Skala Town for more urban exploration. This charming seaside village is known for its laid-back atmosphere. Discover the tavernas, cafes, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, perfect for stocking up on those gifts for loved ones back home. And if you haven’t had enough of the sun yet, head to Skala Beach. As the longest beach on the island, it attracts many visitors, making the atmosphere lively and welcoming, with bars and restaurants along the bay for you to enjoy. Sunbeds are also available to rent, or you can bring a towel to rest on the sand.
As the day ends, treat yourself to a meal at one of Skala’s seaside tavernas, where you can savor fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes while enjoying views of the Ionian Sea.
Day 5: Day Trip to the Mythical Island of Ithaca
Is Kefalonia worth visiting? Consider a trip if you’re fascinated by ancient Greek mythology. Just a short boat ride away lies the mysterious island of Ithaca, believed to be the legendary home of the Greek hero Odysseus. Steeped in magic and mythology, this enchanting island offers a quieter, more authentic experience than Kefalonia. With its charming small towns and secluded beaches, you may often be the sole visitor to these idyllic spots.
Explore Ithaca by renting a car or motorbike from Vathy Village for complete freedom over your itinerary. However, an organized tour is the easiest way to experience a day trip to Ithaca. This allows you to visit reclusive beaches accessible only by boat and easily stop at all the top destinations.
However you decide to travel around Ithaca, here are a few stops to consider visiting on your day trip to Ithaka:
- Explore Vathy village, the picturesque capital of Ithaka: It has a beautiful waterfront and charming alleys filled with shops selling handmade items.
- Visit : The ruins of Odysseus’ Palace, an archaeological site near the village of Stavros, are open for you to explore.
- Hike to : This scenic hike to the top of the hill overlooking Vathy offers panoramic views of the island and the Ionian Sea.
- Explore : This small fishing village is a beautiful sport on the island, filled with quaint cafes and a small pebble beach on the waterfront.
- Swim in the crystalline waters of Gidaki Beach: A stunning beach only accessible by boat, swimming at Gidaki Beach offers a unique and secluded experience.
Wondering where to stay? Check out these options!
Natalia Studios
North Point Rooms
Phaedra Suites
Day 6: Explore
While Kefalonia is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, it also offers abundant opportunities for hiking and exploration. On your sixth day, venture to , a less-explored but equally captivating area of the island. Encompassing over 3000 hectares, with its highest peak soaring 1628 meters, there’s plenty to discover.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the summit, where you’ll encounter an ancient forest dominated by black fir trees, one of the rarest trees in Europe. Embark on the surrounding trails, each offering stunning vistas and the melodic serenade of birdsong. Regardless of your hiking experience, there’s a trail suited for you, ranging from leisurely strolls to moderately challenging treks lasting from an hour and a half to over four hours.
To fully savor your day, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty as you traverse the trails.
Day 7: Venture to the Paliki Peninsula and Return Home
Just a hop away from Argostoli, the Palii Peninsula offers a perfect place to spend the final hours of your Kefalonia itinerary. Spend your morning exploring before going to the airport in the afternoon or early evening. Begin your excursion by delving into the village of Lixouri, the island’s second-largest town, brimming with history and charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Typaldoi-Iakovatoi mansion, a resilient survivor of the 1853 earthquake, now transformed into a library.
15km away, you’ll find the Kipouria Monastery, sat atop a hill 50 meters above sea level. Dating back to the 17th century, this monastery is open to visitors and offers panoramic views that justify the visit. If you don’t have a car on the island, you can easily reach it by private taxi.
The true gem of the peninsula lies at Xi Beach. Renowned for its striking red sand, this beach promises a unique experience. Relax on rented sunbeds or savor a final cocktail at the beachside bar before bidding farewell to this enchanting island.
Kefalonia Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kefalonia like?
Kefalonia is a captivating island. It boasts many pristine beaches, charming villages, and mythical caves. The waters of the Ionian Sea are remarkably clear and pleasantly warm, perfect for swimming and observing the surrounding sea life. But it’s not just for sunbathers with a rich history and culture, making it ideal for anyone exploring Greek hospitality.
Is Kefalonia worth visiting?
If you’re wondering whether Kefalonia is worth visiting, the answer is a resounding yes. Its natural beauty alone makes it a must-see destination, but it offers much more. With an authentic Greek atmosphere, historical sites, and delightful villages to explore, it’s great for every kind of holiday, whether you seek to relax on beaches, hike mountains, or even take part in a spot of island hopping.
Is Kefalonia nice for beaches?
Kefalonia boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Greece. Myrtos Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, is a must-visit for its postcard-perfect scenery. Antisamos Beach, famous for its clear waters and lush surroundings, offers a serene escape. For those seeking seclusion, Skala Beach provides a tranquil setting with its long stretch of golden sand. Xi Beach stands out with its unique red sand and shallow waters, perfect for families.
How long does it take to drive around Kefalonia?
Kefalonia is a relatively small island, and driving between villages won’t take long. The longest drive will most likely take around an hour and a half. That will take you from Skala, the southernmost point, to Fiskardo, the northernmost point on the island.
What is the best area to stay in Kefalonia?
Kefalonia offers a variety of charming areas to stay in, each with its own unique appeal. Argostoli, the island’s capital, boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with bustling streets lined with shops, tavernas, and cafes. Lixouri, while the furthest away area on the Palii Peninsula, provides a quieter retreat with its scenic surroundings and traditional Greek charm. Fiskardo, in the north, exudes an elegant ambiance with its Venetian architecture, upscale dining options, and some of the best spa retreats on the island.
Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet?
The Insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing
Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy.
Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies.
Kefalonia Travel Guide Planning
🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Kefalonia?
Yes I have created a whole packing guide to Kefalonia which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Kefalonia on Ama on here.
🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Kefalonia?
I strongly recommend using Bookaway. You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.
🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Kefalonia?
I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. They have a lot of options!
👩⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?
I recommend using Heymondo for a great alue policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing digital nomad insurance.
I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here.
✈️ Any flight recommendations?
WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.
📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?
I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here. I personally use Glocalme as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.
With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim. Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.
🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?
The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia. They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.
🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?
I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack.
What to Do in Kefalonia Itinerary: Final Thoughts
This Kefalonia itinerary shows you how to spend seven perfect days on the island. From relaxing on beaches to movies, hiking mountains, and exploring natural caves, it has all the top things to see in Kefalonia. It is the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. So, with this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most of your time on this gem of the Ionian Sea and create memories to last a lifetime.
Author’s Bio
Kizzi, the writer behind the blog “Off To Get Lost,” is a female solo traveler who shares tips and advice for fellow travel enthusiasts, especially those traveling solo on a budget. Her blog is filled with insights and experiences aimed at inspiring and guiding others with a similar passion for exploration.