About Kefalonia
Kefalonia or Cephalonia, formerly also known as Kefallinia or Kephallenia (Κεφαλληνία), is the largest of the Ionian Islands in western Greece and the sixth-largest island in Greece after Crete, Euboea, Lesbos, Rhodes and Chios. It is also a separate regional unit of the Ionian Islands region. It was a former Latin Catholic diocese Kefalonia–Zakynthos (Cefalonia–Zante) and short-lived titular see as just Kefalonia. The largest cities of Cephalonia are Argostoli and Lixouri.
Places to visit in Kefalonia
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Melissani Cave
Nature · 4 mi from centreAn underground lake with a collapsed roof that lets sunlight stream onto turquoise water. Visit around midday, when the sun shines directly into the cave.
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Myrtos Beach
Beach · 5 mi from centreA dramatic beach of white pebbles beneath steep cliffs on the northwest coast. Arrive early for parking, and take water shoes for the pebbly sea floor.
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Assos
Neighborhood · 8 mi from centreA small village on a narrow isthmus below a Venetian castle on a hill. Hike up to the castle ruins for wonderful views, and bring water as there is little shade.
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Fiskardo
Neighborhood · 13 mi from centreA pretty harbor village on the northern tip, spared by the 1953 earthquake. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the waterfront, and arrive early in summer when parking is limited.
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Argostoli
Neighborhood · 7 mi from centreThe island's capital, with a lively harbor and a pedestrian main street. Watch for loggerhead turtles that often swim near the fishing boats along the waterfront.
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Mount Ainos
Nature · 11 mi from centreThe island's highest mountain, covered in Greek fir forest and home to wild horses. Drive up for the views, and bring a jacket since it is cooler at the top.
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Drogarati Cave
NatureA large cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites near the village of Sami. Wear shoes with good grip, as the steps inside can be damp.
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Antisamos Beach
BeachA pebbly beach in a green bay near Sami, with clear water perfect for snorkeling. Arrive early to find a good spot, especially in July and August.
Top experiences in Kefalonia
Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 31 available.
Discover Historical Kefalonia with Wine Tasting - Private Tour
From $197 per adult
Sightseeing in Kefalonia - Private Shore Excursion
From $157 per adult
Unearth the Hidden Gems of Ithaca - Full-Day Tour
From $256 per adult
Explore Fiskardo by Night - Private Tour
From $172 per adult
Escape to Myrtos Beach - Private Tour
From $148 per adult
The Ultimate Kefalonia Experience - Private Tour
From $123 per adult
Discover Kefalonia Your Own Way - Private Tour
From $182 per adult
Where to stay in Kefalonia
Popular hotels in Kefalonia, out of 183 properties you can book.
Casa De Rosa Studios & Apartments
From $8,628,347 per night
Mouikis
From $82 per night
Irinna
Apostolata Island Resort
Oskars Studios & Apartments
Kefalonia Bay Palace by GHH
Travlos Studios
Alley Boutique Hotel & Spa
Lagoon View Apartments - Adults Only
Oceanis Hotel
Aenos
Monambeles Villas
Best time to visit Kefalonia
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Kefalonia is June to August, when average daytime highs are around 81–83°F and rain falls on about 2 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Kefalonia weather forecast
- Wed 11 Nov 58° 53° 100%
- Thu 12 Nov 58° 54° 0%
- Fri 13 Nov 55° 53° 75%
- Sat 14 Nov 57° 51° 10%
- Sun 15 Nov 58° 46° 10%
- Mon 16 Nov 49° 45° 44%
- Tue 17 Nov 54° 49° 49%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)1 US dollar ≈ €0.89
- Language
- Greek
- Calling code
- +30
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- Europe/AthensUTC+2
- Capital
- Athens
Upcoming public holidays in Greece
- Christmas DayΧριστούγεννα
- St. Stephen's DayΣύναξις Υπεραγίας Θεοτόκου Μαρίας
- New Year's DayΠρωτοχρονιά
- EpiphanyΘεοφάνεια
- Clean MondayΚαθαρά Δευτέρα
- AnnunciationΕυαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Kefalonia
These are the airports closest to central Kefalonia. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- EFL Kefalonia International Airport10 mi (17 km) from the city centre
Getting around Kefalonia
Unless you have arrived on your own yacht, in which case you'll have no problem getting to most parts, you need a car or bike if you plan to get around. There are car ferries from the mainland, and many car hire places in town, though prices vary. Although all travel operators are against motorcycle hire, as long as you have some bike experience, renting a 100cc scooter for the duration of your stay can work out reasonably. Just make sure you check the bike out for previous damage before you hire it.
Kefalonia travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Kefalonia?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Kefalonia is June to August, when average daytime highs are around 81–83°F and rain falls on about 2 days a month.
What is the weather like in Kefalonia?
July is usually the warmest month in Kefalonia, with average highs of 83°F (29°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 34°F (1°C). The wettest month is typically November, with about 235 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Kefalonia?
Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) is the closest airport, about 10 miles (17 km) from the centre of Kefalonia.
What currency is used in Kefalonia?
Kefalonia uses the Euro (EUR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ €0.89.
What time zone is Kefalonia in?
Kefalonia uses the Europe/Athens time zone (currently UTC+2). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Kefalonia?
Unless you have arrived on your own yacht, in which case you'll have no problem getting to most parts, you need a car or bike if you plan to get around. There are car ferries from the mainland, and many car hire places in town, though prices vary.
What are the best places to visit in Kefalonia?
Top sights in Kefalonia include Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, Assos and Fiskardo. An underground lake with a collapsed roof that lets sunlight stream onto turquoise water. Visit around midday, when the sun shines directly into the cave.
What are the top things to do in Kefalonia?
Popular experiences you can book in Kefalonia include Discover Historical Kefalonia with Wine Tasting - Private Tour, Sightseeing in Kefalonia - Private Shore Excursion and Unearth the Hidden Gems of Ithaca - Full-Day Tour. Destina Holidays offers 31 tours and activities here.
Where should I stay in Kefalonia?
Popular areas for hotels in Kefalonia include Svoronata-Ammes and Argostoli. Well-reviewed options include Casa De Rosa Studios & Apartments and Mouikis.
How many hotels can I book in Kefalonia?
Destina Holidays currently lists 183 properties in and around Kefalonia, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
