Bursting with rugged landscapes, rich Greek culture and beaches for every occasion, Kefalonia is the perfect setting for a scenic getaway to Greece.

✨ Your holidays to Kefalonia 2026

• Beaches for everyone

• Famous for its delicious 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 delicious thyme honey – a 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 top-notch 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.

What is the best time to visit Kefalonia?

Kefalonia is the biggest of the Ionian islands and stays beautifully green year-round thanks to its wetter winters. It rocks a classic Mediterranean climate, meaning you get hot, dry summers that are perfect for beach bums, and mild spring/autumn seasons that are absolute gold for exploring the mountains. Whatever your vibe, this is the perfect choice practically year round when it comes to your Greece holidays.

• Spring - the island is in full bloom, and temps hover in the comfortable mid-20s - perfect for hiking Mount Aenos without the sweat.

• Summer - it’s a toasty time of year with highs hitting 30°C+. The sea is dreamy, the turtles are out, and the beach bars are buzzing.

• Autumn - the crowds disappear, but the sun sticks around. Sea temps are still warm enough for a dip, making it a 10/10 for chilled couples.

• Winter - it’s much quieter and cooler with highs of 15°C. A great time to see the authentic side of Greek life away from the tourists.

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 make up this Greek island's beachy roster – Kefalonia’s beaches are an exotic paradise all about showing up and showing out. With 36 stunners to choose from, here are the ones you need to keep on your radar:

• Myrtos Beach - the ultimate poster child of the island. With blinding white pebbles and electric blue water, it’s the view you’ve seen on every brochure (and for good reason).

• Xi Beach - famous for its vibrant red sand and clay cliffs. Slap some of the clay on your skin for a DIY spa treatment that’s totally free and great for the tan.

• Skala Beach - a long sandy stretch with crystal-clear waters, making it the go-to spot for snorkelers and divers wanting to explore the colourful seabed.

• Makris Gialos - just a stone’s throw from the capital, Argostoli. It’s packed with golden sand, beach bars, and water sports for those who can’t sit still.

• Lourdas Beach - one of the few purely sandy spots on the island. With shallow waters perfect for the kiddos and tavernas nearby, it’s ideal for a full day out.

• Petani Beach - a Blue Flag beauty that gives Myrtos a run for its money. White pebbles, turquoise waves, and sunset views that are guaranteed to rack up the likes.

• Antisamos - surrounded by lush green hills, this bay is a total stunner. Famous as a filming location for Captain Corelli's Mandolin, it’s Hollywood-approved beauty.

What are the top Kefalonia Hotels?

Fancy having everything sorted? Check out our all-inclusive holidays to Kefalonia – food, drinks and entertainment all wrapped up so you can focus on relaxing.

For Families

• Ionian Emerald Resort – beachfront hotel near Sami with pools, kids' facilities and easy access to Melissani Cave and Antisamos Beach

• Louis Apostolata Island Resort – elegant resort in Skala with panoramic Ionian views, sports facilities and relaxing spa

• Avithos Resort – 4-star self-catering resort in Svoronata with studios and apartments, outdoor pool and playground

• Panas Hotel – homely accommodation in pretty Spartia village with pool, restaurant and proper Greek hospitality

For Couples

• Electra Kefalonia Hotel & Spa – intimate 34-room boutique hotel with sea views, spa treatments and some rooms with private pools

• Kefalonia Grand – stylish boutique hotel in Argostoli with Greek charm, rooftop views and excellent on-site restaurant

• Princess – small, friendly hotel surrounded by nature with private balconies overlooking the sea

• Kefalonia Bay Palace – luxurious villa-style property in Agia Efimia with spa, sauna and hot tub

For Groups

• Evita Studios – cosy apartments in lush gardens with outdoor pool and sun terrace, perfect for self-catering groups

• Tourist Hotel - Kefalonia – contemporary hotel in Argostoli with sea views, great for groups wanting to explore the capital

• Kalypso Hotel - Kefalonia – seafront hotel in Poros with bar, balconies and tavernas nearby

Luxury Picks

• Regina Dell Acqua Resort – 5-star beachfront hotel with stunning architecture, traditional cuisine and live music nights

• Celestial All Suites - Adults-Only (15+) – exclusive adults-only retreat with private pools, spa treatments and pure relaxation

Budget-Friendly

• Aggelos Hotel – great value in Argostoli with free Wi-Fi, air con and easy access to beaches and nightlife

✈️ Kefalonia holidays 2026 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.

🗺️ Best Day Trips from Kefalonia

Kefalonia is a stunner, but if you fancy a change of scenery or just want to tick off another island on your holiday, you are well placed. From mythical neighbours to shipwreck shores, here is where to head for a day out...

• Ithaca - hop on a ferry to Odysseus’ home island. It’s sleepy, scenic, and packed with history – perfect for a chilled day of exploring quaint villages and azure bays.

• Zakynthos (Zante) - jump on a boat to see the famous Shipwreck Cove (Navagio) and the Blue Caves. Keep your eyes peeled for Caretta Caretta turtles on the way!

• Melissani Lake & Drogarati Cave - take a boat ride on this magical underground lake where the water is so clear it looks like you're floating on air. Combine it with the caves for a proper nature fix.

• Assos & Myrtos Beach - okay, it’s still on the island, but a road trip to the colourful village of Assos and a swim at the world-famous Myrtos Beach is an absolute must-do.

• Lixouri - catch the little ferry from Argostoli over to the Paliki peninsula. It feels like a totally different island with red sand beaches and a laid-back vibe.

🚗 Getting Around on your Kefalonia holidays 2026

• 🛳 Ferries - perfect for day trips to nearby Zakynthos or Ithaca. You can book tickets at the port, but we recommend booking online early if you're visiting in peak summer. Pick a slow boat to save cash or a speedier one to save time.

• 🚌 Buses (KTEL Kefalonia) - the budget-friendly option linking main spots like Argostoli and Fiskardo. They are modern and air-conditioned (a lifesaver in the heat), but can be infrequent in smaller villages, so definitely check the timetable before you head out.

• 🚗 Car Hire - the best shout for total freedom. The roads are generally good, though expect some winding mountain routes with killer views. Just keep your wits about you - local driving can be a bit "spirited"!

Other Greece Holidays:

• Athens

• Corfu

• Crete

• Halkidiki

• Kos

• Lesbos

• Mykonos

• Peloponnese

• Preveza

• Rhodes

• Samos

• Santorini

• Skiathos

• Thessaloniki

• Zante