5 Best Places to Visit in Kefalonia

1. Myrtos Beach

No list of the best places to visit in Kefalonia would be complete without Myrtos Beach. One of the most famous and beautiful beaches in Greece, it’s also easily one of the most stunning I’ve ever visited.
Before heading down onto the beach, stop at one of the viewpoints along the winding road. From there, you’ll see vibrant turquoise water meeting what looks like white sand (it’s actually smooth white pebbles) framed by rocky cliffs. It’s a picture perfect view worthy of a postcard.

Once you reach the beach, find a spot on the pebbles and settle in for a day of sun and sea. Be sure to bring your own beach umbrella as there’s no shade and no rental options, at least not when I visited in June. You’ll also want to pack snacks and drinks as Myrtos Beach doesn’t have a beach bar or restaurant. That said, when I was there, a few local vendors occasionally wandered by selling snacks and drinks, I couldn’t resist buying some fresh donuts!

If you’re visiting during the peak summer months, plan to arrive early to secure a car park and get a nice spot on the beach.

Tip: Bring beach shoes or sandals because the pebbles can be a bit uncomfortable to walk on, especially when entering the water.

2. Argostoli

The capital of Kefalonia, Argostoli is a charming harbour town surrounded by mountains and sea. It’s the island’s main hub, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops and car hire options – everything you need to base your stay or explore the rest of Kefalonia.

Take a stroll along the waterfront and soak up the relaxed atmosphere as fishing boats bob in the harbour. Don’t miss a walk across De Bosset Bridge, a long stone pedestrian bridge that stretches across the bay. While crossing, keep an eye out for sea turtles swimming alongside in the clear blue water. I was lucky enough to spot one around sunset but I’ve heard the morning is also a good time to see them.

Continue your walk along Lithostroto Street, the main pedestrian walkway where you’ll find an array of local boutiques, souvenir shops and cafes.

You can also head just outside of town to visit the Saint Theodore Lighthouse, a small circular lighthouse overlooking the coast. Nearby, you’ll find a few lovely beaches if you’d like to cool off with a quick swim before heading to your next stop.

3. Skala Beach and Porto Skala Beach

While these are technically two separate beaches, I’ll let you decide whether Skala Beach or Porto Skala Beach is the best option for you.

Skala Beach is a long flat stretch of beach with plenty of loungers and umbrellas available for hire, plus a great selection of restaurants and tavernas just steps away. It’s easily accessible with parking right alongside the beach. If you’re looking for convenience with plenty of food and drink options, Skala Beach is the perfect spot for a day at the beach.

Just a short drive up the coast, Porto Skala Beach is one of the quieter and more secluded beaches in Kefalonia. This rocky, pebbly beach with crystal clear water is surrounded by rock formations, making it the ideal spot for swimming or snorkeling. It’s a short walk down steep stairs from the car park, not as accessible as Skala Beach but still easy enough to reach. As it’s a smaller hidden spot, there’s no facilities here, so be sure to bring what you need.

The choice is yours – visit one or both. Whether you prefer Skala’s lively atmosphere or Poro Skala’s secluded charm, you’re guaranteed a relaxing and enjoyable day by the sea.

4. Asos

Asos is a very pretty little village located on the west coast of Kefalonia and easily one of the most beautiful places on the island. Take your time wandering through the narrow streets and admire the pastel coloured buildings draped with bougainvillea.

Although it’s small, the village has a number of cafes and restaurants, I popped into the local bakery and picked up some fresh rolls before continuing my stroll.  After exploring, head down to the harbour to relax by the water or go for a swim. The sea here is a vibrant turquoise blue, it’s a beautiful place to sit and soak up the charm of Asos.

5. Fiskardo

Located on the Northern tip of Kefalonia you’ll find Fiskardo, another picturesque harbour village. Take a scenic stroll around and enjoy a meal by the water. Just a short drive from the village is Paralia Emplisi, my favorite spot in the area. It’s a beautiful beach located in a bay with clear blue water. Sit and relax by the water, enjoy a swim or grab a snack and cold drink from the kiosk.

Map of the Best Places to See in Kefalonia

How to Get Around Kefalonia

Hire a Car

Hiring a car is the most popular way to get around Kefalonia. The island is large with a lot to explore and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to cover as much as possible and at your own pace. Roads on the island are generally in good condition but can be narrow and winding in some areas, especially along the coast. The main disadvantage is parking as it can be tricky at the popular sites, especially beaches where the spaces are limited.

Hire a Scooter

If you have the appropriate licence, I’d highly recommend hiring a scooter over a car. It’s not only cheaper but also much more convenient for parking and on the narrower roads. It’s also an incredible way to soak up the scenery and enjoy those beautiful coastal views. I hired a scooter from Velox Rentals, the scooters and helmets are new and well maintained. They were very helpful and made some great local recommendations.

By Bus

There are local buses run by KTEL that connect the major towns and some tourist areas, but timetables and routes are quite limited. While you’d be able to reach a few of the major towns you won’t be able to see some of the best places to visit in Kefalonia. If you’re relying on public transport, plan accordingly because if you get stuck and need to take a taxi, it will cost you. You will also need to ensure you have cash to pay the driver when boarding.

By Taxi

Taxi services are available across the island however I found them to be very expensive. For example, when I needed to travel from Argostoli to Sami, I was quoted €50! They’re best used for airport transfers or when there’s no alternate option.

Final Thoughts

Kefalonia truly surprised me with its variety, every part of the island offers something unique. From the unique harbour towns to beautiful beaches, it’s the type of island that keeps you wanting to explore more. Whether you’re searching for the best places to visit in Kefalonia or looking for the most relaxing things to do in Kefalonia, I hope this guide helps you to uncover a few favourites of your own.