Kefalonia Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

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)

🎉 Good to Know

🤩 Fun fact: Calling all honey lovers! Kefalonia is famous for its top-tier thyme honey – a proper sweet treat that locals swear by. Drizzle it on everything and thank us later.
🏖️ Best beach: Myrtos Beach is the real MVP here – dazzling white pebbles, dreamy turquoise waters, and those dramatic cliffs serving peak paradise vibes. It's a no-brainer for a proper good beach day.
🍺 Price of a pint: Expect to fork out around €4.50 (£3.90) on average, but hey, location is everything – swanky seafront bars might set you back a little more.

Where to Stay on your holidays to Kefalonia

Kefalonia is serving up pure Greek island magic – lush landscapes, jaw-dropping beaches, and that perfect mix of adventure and chill. Whether you're after a swanky stay with infinity pool views or a cosy taverna-side retreat, this island's got you covered.

Argostoli – the island’s buzzing capital, where you’ll find waterfront tavernas, sea turtles bobbing about in the harbour, and plenty of shops and bars to keep things lively. A great base for exploring.
Katelios - a chilled-out fishing village turned laid-back resort, Katelios is all about beachy calm, fresh seafood, and countryside views. Great for couples and walkers who want easy access to nature trails and peaceful swims.
Lassi – beach lovers, this one's for you. Just a short hop from Argostoli, Lassi is all about soft golden sands, crystal-clear swimmers, and those dreamy sunset views. Bonus: loads of restaurants and bars to keep things ticking over.
Lourdas - sitting pretty between mountain and sea, Lourdas serves up sweeping views, tavernas with homemade everything, and a long, pebbly beach. It’s a fab pick for relaxed days, scenic strolls and low-key evenings.
Lixouri – Kefalonia’s second-largest town, but way more chilled than Argostoli. It’s got a relaxed local feel, fab beaches nearby (hello, Xi Beach with its red sand!), and easy ferry access to the capital.
Poros - nestled between green hills and the Ionian Sea, Poros is a ferry port with a proper local vibe. It’s ideal for travellers who want peace, good food, and a gateway to the island’s east coast hiking trails and boat trips.
Sami – a proper good base for explorers. Close to Melissani Cave, Drogarati Cave, and Antisamos Beach (which, FYI, is stunning). Also, film fans might recognise the area from Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
Skala – beachy, lively, and a fave for families and couples. Skala is home to a long, sandy coastline, plenty of tavernas, and a mix of relaxed vibes with just the right amount of nightlife.
Svoronata - a stone’s throw from the airport (no stressy transfers here), Svoronata is all olive groves, traditional charm and uncrowded beaches. Perfect for a peaceful break that still keeps things easy.
Trapezaki - quiet, hilly and ideal for a proper wind-down. Trapezaki has a low-key beach, lovely views of Mount Ainos, and some top-notch villas if you’re all about that private pool life.

Even more places to stay in Kefalonia:

Agia Efimia - Ammes - Fiskardo - Karavados - Karavomilos - Klismata - Kountourata - Lakithra - Petrikata - Spartia - Variko - Vlachata - Xi - Zola

🏖️ What are the best beaches to visit on your holidays to 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 to stay at on your Kefalonia holidays?

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 holidays travel guide

💕 Things to Do in Kefalonia for Couples

Whether you're honeymooning or just escaping the group chat for a bit of quality time on a couples' holiday, Kefalonia brings peak romantic energy.

Wander through the pastel streets of Assos village hand-in-hand – it’s giving fairy-tale vibes.
Charter a boat for the day and explore hidden beaches only reachable by sea – pack the bubbly.
Watch the sun dip behind the horizon at Petani Beach or Mount Ainos Viewpoint – pure golden hour magic.
Explore the surreal blue of Melissani Cave on a rowing boat – it’s basically a natural cathedral.
Book a suite with a private pool in Trapezaki or Lourdas and just... do nothing (you’ve earned it).

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to Do in Kefalonia for Families

Kefalonia’s a reyt-good, all-rounder for family holidays – safe beaches, gentle adventures, and more ice cream options than you can shake a snorkel at.

Head to Makris Gialos Beach for soft sands, shallow water, and water sports for bigger kids.
Visit the Kefalonia Aquarium or the island’s rescue centre for sea turtles in Argostoli – cute overload guaranteed.
Splash about at Ammes Beach or Skala, both great for little paddlers and beach games.
Go underground and wow the kids with a boat tour of Melissani Lake – it’s got main character energy.
Wrap it all up with a sunset dinner at a seafront taverna where the kids can dig into souvlaki and chips while you sip wine and exhale.

👯‍♀️ Things to Do in Kefalonia for Groups

If you’re heading to Kefalonia with mates on a group holiday, there’s plenty to keep the vibe high – from boat trips to beach clubs to villa hangs.

Rent a private villa in Lassi or Skala – pool parties and BBQs, sorted.
Book a private catamaran cruise to swim, snack, and sip your way around the coast – Bluetooth speaker = essential.
Hit up Argostoli or Lixouri for beach bars and low-key nightlife (think cocktails with a view, not foam parties).
Go quad biking through olive groves or hike up to Mount Ainos for panoramic island views.
Find a quiet beach like Foki or Emplisi, plug in the tunes, and make it your group’s base for the day.

🍽️ Things to Do in Kefalonia for Foodies

Greek food already slaps. But Kefalonia adds its own flavour – with rustic local dishes, seaside tavernas, and plenty of wine to wash it all down.

Try kreatopita, Kefalonia’s signature meat pie, best eaten hot with a sea view.
Book a cooking class in a local village – you’ll be rolling vine leaves and making tzatziki like a pro.
Head to Fiskardo for fresh seafood straight off the boat, and some of the island’s swankier menus.
Sip your way through a wine tasting at Gentilini or Robola wineries – dry whites, dreamy settings.
Grab some sweet treats like mandoles (caramelised almonds) or baklava from a bakery in Argostoli.

🚗 Getting Around on your Kefalonia holidays 2025 / 2026

🛳 Ferries

Island hopping on the agenda? Ferries are the way to go! Kefalonia has solid ferry connections to the mainland and nearby islands like Zakynthos and Ithaca, so you can keep the adventure rolling. You can book tickets online or at the port, but if you’re travelling in peak summer, get in there early – nobody likes a last-minute panic. Slower ferries are easier on the wallet, while the speedier ones shave off time (but cost a little extra). Either way, get ready for salty sea air and a bit of a bob as you sail your merry way through the Ionian.

🚌 Buses (KTEL Kefalonia)

For getting around the island itself, KTEL buses have your back. They link the main towns like Argostoli, Lixouri, and Fiskardo, and they’re proper budget-friendly too. Most buses are modern and comfy (air con = lifesaver in that scorchio Greek sun), but services can be a bit infrequent, especially in smaller villages. Check the timetables in advance so you’re not left twiddling your thumbs at the bus stop.

🚗 Car Hire

Want the freedom to explore every hidden cove and taverna at your own pace? Hiring a car is the best shout. Kefalonia’s roads are well-maintained, but expect a few winding mountain routes – worth it for those whopper views! Parking is usually easy outside the main towns, and the island isn’t too big, so you won’t be spending half your jollies behind the wheel. Just remember – Greeks like to drive with flair, so keep your wits about you!

Other Greece Holidays:

Popular Kefalonia hotels

More Kefalonia hotels

Stunning Kefalonia resorts

Weather in Kefalonia

JAN

12^°C

FEB

12^°C

MAR

14^°C

APR

19^°C

MAY

23^°C

JUN

26^°C

JUL

30^°C

AUG

30^°C

SEP

24^°C

OCT

20^°C

NOV

15^°C

DEC

13^°C

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!

FAQs

It takes about three and a half hours to fly to Kefalonia from the UK.

Kefalonia is two hours ahead of the time in the UK.

The official currency of Kefalonia is the Euro.

The official language spoken in Kefalonia is Greek.

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.

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.

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!

Find out more about:

All inclusive holidays in Kefalonia

Last Minute Holidays

Discover Melissani Cave

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?
It's 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 on your Kefalonia holidays. 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
- To Kapilio - tucked just inland from Sami, this rustic taverna serves up seriously good local flavours. Think tender lamb kleftiko, creamy tzatziki, and grilled veggies fresh from the owner’s garden. It's traditional Greek cooking without the tourist fluff, and we can't get enough of it.
- Avli - 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 on your holidays to Kefalonia.
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.

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

From December 2024, the Greek Govt. are increasing the Climate Resilience Tax on all overnight stays which will be payable by customers directly at the hotel. This tax replaces the previous sustainable tourism tax:

April to October

5-star hotels: €15 per room, per night
4-star hotels: €10 per room, per night
3-star hotels: €5 per room, per night
1-star & 2-star hotels: €2 per room, per night
Furnished rooms/apartments: €2 per room, per night

November to March

5-star hotels: €4 per room, per night
4-star hotels: €3 per room, per night
3-star hotels: €1.50 per room, per night
1-star & 2-star hotels: €0.50 per room, per night
Furnished rooms/apartments: €0.50 per room, per night

Kefalonia Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

✨ Destination Highlights

🎉 Good to Know

Where to Stay on your holidays to Kefalonia

Even more places to stay in Kefalonia:

🏖️ What are the best beaches to visit on your holidays to Kefalonia?

What are the top hotels to stay at on your Kefalonia holidays?

✈️ Kefalonia holidays travel guide

💕 Things to Do in Kefalonia for Couples

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to Do in Kefalonia for Families

👯‍♀️ Things to Do in Kefalonia for Groups

🍽️ Things to Do in Kefalonia for Foodies

🚗 Getting Around on your Kefalonia holidays 2025 / 2026

Other Greece Holidays:

Popular Kefalonia hotels

Stunning Kefalonia resorts

Weather in Kefalonia

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

View destination on a map

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Kefalonia?

What's the time difference between the UK and Kefalonia?

What currency do they use in Kefalonia?

What language do they speak in Kefalonia?

When's the best time to visit Kefalonia?

Is Kefalonia a party island?

Where's the best place to stay in Kefalonia?

Find out more about:

Discover Melissani Cave

Make the most of the Med

Jump on a sun cruise

Get your history hat on

Stargazing at the Dark Sky Park of Mount Aenos

What events can I go to in Kefalonia?

Where’s the best nightlife in Kefalonia?

What's the food like in Kefalonia?

Places to visit

Gentilini Winery & Vineyards

Argostoli Harbour

Mount Ainos National Park

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?

Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Kefalonia?