//
Largest of the Ionian Islands, Greece
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Christos Vittoratos assumed (based on copyright claims)., Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Kefalonia (Greek: Κεφαλονιά) is believed to have derived its name from the mythological figure Cephalus, the son of Hermes and a hero in ancient Greek legends. This picturesque island, with its captivating landscapes and historical significance, reflects a deep connection to the rich tapestry of Greek mythology and history. It is the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece.
The northernmost peninsula
A major tourist area adjoining Argostoli.
A tourist area south of Argostoli.
The westernmost peninsula
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
The island's loveliest village, is on a charming little peninsula.
The Roman villa just outside Skala, with mosaic floors more or less intact, is worth a visit - recent finds have added to its attraction and digs continue in the area.
Nestled in a lush, sheltered bay, where international celebrities drop anchor.
at Perata offers panoramic views
The ghost village of Palaia Vlachata, abandoned after the devastating 1953 earthquake.
Archaeological Museum at Argostoli, Korgialenio Historical and Cultural Museum at Argostoli, Iakovatios Library at Lixouri, Byzantine Museum at Livathos, Tomb of Mazaraka at Livathos, Royal Tomb at Tzannata, Roman Villa at Pronni, Assos Castle at Erissos.
Agios Gerasimos Monastery at Omala, Agios Andreas Monastery at Livathos, Kipouria Monastery at Paliki, Blessed Mary and Snake Monastery at Markopoluo.
The beautiful Drogarati Cave in Sami seems to have suffered somewhat from the loss of rather a lot of its stalactites and stalagmites (allegedly due to occupying German forces using them for target practice during World War II). Dragarati Cave is located at Haliotata, 3 km from Sami, 120 m above sea level. The cave is 95 m deep and has a constant temperature of 18 °C. The cave is considered as one of the finest in Greece. It measures 65 m × 45 m and is 20 m high.
Melissani Cave at Karavomylos (actually a lake, formed when part of the land above collapsed during an earthquake), filled with brilliant blue water from an underground current which mysteriously flows right under the island, is a memorable experience. Melissani Cave is located at Karavomylos, 2 km from Sami town. The cave is 160 m long and 40 m wide. The stalactites are 16,000 to 20,000 years old.The floor is covered by a lake, about 40 m deep. In the centre of the lake is a small island. Archaeologists have discovered artefacts from the 4th and 3rd century BC, related to the cult of the god Pan, as well as a number of female figures, the famous nymphs of Melissani. The cave is open every day from 09:00 to late afternoon.
In Agia Efimia there are a few rentals, such as Yellow Boat - and spend the day visiting secluded beaches which can only be reached by boat. Of the many boat excursions available, one to nearby Ithaca is particularly recommended. Also, the glass bottomed boat tour run by Captain Maki is a must.
There are a number of horseriding stables in Kefalonia and it is possible to arrange a ride into the mountains, through ruined villages and ancient vineyards, where the bells of the mountain goats and the cry of eagles are the only sounds to punctuate the silence—gorgeous, and highly recommended, even in the height of summer.
Quality bar above the main road in Lassi with panoramic views of the sunset and a wide range of cocktails.
Exotic decor, cocktails, pop/rock music and sport on TV.
Bar with outdoor terrace. Popular with UK visitors.
A fairly new building, lying by the sea in Karavomilos-Sami Kefalonia near the cave-lake of Melissani.
Villa Gaia & Villa Nemus are in a small village called Steliata at the northern part of Cephalonia. Both villas are restored olive oil mills, built of traditional stone and dating back to 1895. Gaia & Nemus are fringed by tastefully preserved ruins and verdant forests in a quintessentially rural setting yet at the same time only 500 m away from village amenities, 2.5 km from the beach and 4 km from the picturesque Fiscardo bay.
Offers three-star hotel rooms next to the beach.
Avithos Resort in Kefalonia stands out as a resort with a unique character, giving the feeling of a small neighbourhood; a family friendly hotel.
A small hotel in Agia Efimia that is tastefully decorated , run by a family that remind us what Greek hospitality used to be
The only nudist hotel on the island.
A five-star retreat on the southern shores of Kefalonia above a secluded beach.
By boat
You can also arrive by frequent ferry from Italy, Patras & Killini on the Greek mainland & Pessada to connect with Zakynthos.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Kefallinia Island · International · EFL
Loading places around the airport…
is the main town, which has serious shops and a rather underwhelming museum
at the northern tip of the island, is popular with yachts and rather pricey and upmarket. It is the only part of the island which survived the earthquakes of the last century intact, but extensive refurbishment and repairs have given it a rather bijoux feel rather than one of authentic old Kefalonia
at the south-eastern tip of the island, is a popular and relaxed resort focused on beach holidays
Articles and travel topics about Kefalonia and Greece.
Travel tipsFind out how much does a trip to Greece cost in 2026. Compare daily budgets for island ferries, hotels, taverna dining, and ancient archaeological sites.
8 min read
ItinerariesPlan an ideal 10-day Greek island-hopping itinerary for 2026. Explore Athens, Naxos, and Santorini with ferry tips, timings, and realistic costs.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Greece in 2026. Compare island ferry seasons, sea temperatures, Meltemi winds, ancient ruins weather, and hotel costs.
8 min read
Travel tipsCompare taking a ferry versus flying from Athens to Santorini. Examine transit times, ticket costs, luggage rules, seasickness risks, and scenery tips.
6 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.