Nestled in the heart of the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is the perfect island for an unforgettable holiday in Greece. While it might not be as popular as other islands like Mykonos or Santorini, the blissful atmosphere and rustic charm beckons visitors like a siren song.
Kefalonia’s fine shingle stretches, bleached white in the sun and lapped by pale teal waters, tend to steal the show – but there’s more than just beaches in Kefalonia. Underground lakes, stalactite-framed caves, terraced vineyards: this Greek beauty is as dramatic as it is diverse. A holiday in Kefalonia unveils a hidden gem where ancient myths and natural beauty are seamlessly blended into a magical experience.
In this guide, you will find all of the best things to do in Kefalonia for a gorgeous Greek escape! We highlight some of the best places to visit in Kefalonia where culture can be found at every corner. Then we showcase some of the top things to do in Kefalonia, from the idyllic beaches to exciting excursions into the surrounding landscape.
Kefalonia is brimming with historical sites that detail the mythical past of ancient Greece. Fans of history will be overjoyed by visits to crumbling ruins and tranquil monasteries, all while relishing the superb natural ambience. Below, we highlight some of the best things to do in Kefalonia that will give you more insight into the local culture.
The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos is one of the most tranquil places to visit in Kefalonia. In the middle of the island, the peaceful haven is perched atop the Omala plateau, overshadowed only by Mount Ainos. Originally dating back to 1560, the restored building pays homage to Kefalonia’s patron saint, Gerasimos, who was believed to have cured many people with mental illnesses.
Today it’s a popular pilgrimage site, with many embarking on the journey to the island’s spiritual centre. It’s an ideal place to visit in Kefalonia if you want to dive into local heritage. You can see the saint’s tomb and his cavern quarters beneath the monastery which provide more details about the religious significance of the site.
The Ancient Acropolis of Sami is perched high above the town of the same name on the eastern coast of Kefalonia. This ancient site served as the heart of Sami in antiquity, providing protection and a strategic vantage point against potential invaders. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kefalonia as you can truly step into the past and learn more about the island’s fascinating history.
The Acropolis can be reached on foot by well-marked trails, which also connect a clutch of Roman remains. After the scenic walk, wander around the scattered remains of the crumbling citadel, which has evidence of fortifications dating back to the Classical and Hellenistic era (5th–2nd century BC). The elevated position of the acropolis also provides immaculate views of the Ionian Sea, the surrounding mountains and the modern town of Sami below, making it the best place in Kefalonia for a show-stopping photo opportunity.
One of the best reasons to go on a holiday in Greece is the fact that island hopping is so easy. On your visit to Kefalonia, you can explore neighbouring islands to make the most of your time and Ithaca should be a priority on your itinerary. You may know it as the home of the fabled hero Odysseus, who spent 10 years trying to return home after the Trojan War.
This mythical link can be seen all across the island, such as in the Cave of the Nymphs and the northern village of Stavros which features a statue of Odysseus in the main square. Aside from historic exploration, you can also spend time on Ithaca’s marvellous beaches and soak up the sun on the warm sands. The beaches range from pebble coves to secluded shores and the calm waters will lull you into the ultimate relaxation.
You can reach Ithaca by taking a ferry from Kefalonia; the services run fairly regularly and the journey takes just half an hour. Kefalonia Excursions offers a boat trip to Ithaca that includes hidden beaches, inland waterways and isolated harbours. If you think Ithaca sounds like a dream, have a look at our self-catered villas in Ithaca!
While staying in Kefalonia, visitors will be spoiled by the pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Spending some time boating or diving is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia and you can even visit an underground lake for a unique outing.
Once worshipped by the Ancient Greeks, Melissani Cave is a 130-foot-wide underground lake near Sami that was only rediscovered in 1951 by palaeontologist Giannis Petrochilos. This glistening lake is one of the most enchanting things to do in Kefalonia and allows you to marvel at the distinctive natural beauty of the island. The cave is just 2 km away from Sami, making it very accessible and in our opinion, a Kefalonia must-do.
You can reach the cave via rowing boats, which enter the main chamber through an underground tunnel. On your tour, you will duck beneath stalactites and inch past moss-covered rock formations. For the best experience, visit at midday when the sun streaks through an opening in the main chamber and causes the water to shimmer in the most mystical way.
Kefalonia is one of the top diving destinations in Greece, thanks to a rocky coastline and clear waters. Diving in Kefalonia is a great way to see diverse marine life and explore underwater landscapes. The water conditions of the island are ideal for diving, as the currents are generally mild and sea temperatures remain pleasant year round.
There are a variety of ways that you can go about diving in Kefalonia on your glamorous Greek holiday. Popular dives include the Temple Cave in Fiskardo and the Blue Canyon in Lassi, which are great places to spot octopuses, moray eels, and groupers. Some of the best centres are Aquatic World and Fiskardo Divers, which offer both courses and tours so you don’t need to have previous diving experience to enjoy the fun.
One of the most serene ways to explore Kefalonia is by boat as you can take in the majesty of the island from a different perspective. The Ionian Sea shimmers before you like a diamond-studded blanket, while coves bite into the coastline and slender inlets disappear through sheer limestone gorges. Enjoying a leisurely day on the water is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia and allows you to visit hidden coves for a memorable experience.
Pick a glass-bottomed vessel to see colourful fish dart beneath your feet or sign up for a village-to-village journey for a taste of local life. Popular boating destinations in Kefalonia include Fiskardo, Assos and Myrtos Beach. Try Ionian Discoveries or Kefaloniá Cruises for a top experience on the sapphire waters.
Aside from cultural sites and pristine waters, there are also some incredible natural landscapes to explore in Kefalonia. Taking time to explore the natural wonders of the Greek island is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia and allows you to reconnect with the outdoors. Below, we highlight some of the top things to do in Kefalonia that will keep you outdoors.
The best area in Kefalonia for outdoor adventures is Mount Ainos, a stunning natural landmark that offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and biodiversity. The mountain is part of Ainos National Park and is renowned for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views. If you’re eager to explore the outdoors on your trip to Kefalonia, then be sure to spend a day in this idyllic setting.
Also known as the ‘Black Mountain’, this astonishing natural feature climbs to a 5341ft summit – making it the highest viewpoint in the Ionian archipelago. Wild horses and deer roam beneath the cover of the dark Abies cephalonica firs, after which the island is named. Protected under national park status, the forest is carpeted in colourful wildflowers, while hawks and woodpeckers can sometimes be spotted among the towering trees.
If you’d rather escape the tourist trail, sign up for an intrepid adventure with Outdoor Kefalonia. There are a variety of activities to choose from, so there’s really something for everyone. Whether you want to hit the water on a kayak or explore the Ainos Forest trails, spending time reconnecting with nature is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia.
Visitors can kayak among coves only accessible by sea, or duck into remote caves where the endangered monk seal may bob up beside you. You can even visit Koutavos Lagoon for a gentle seaside walk and birdwatching if you’d prefer something more relaxed. Alternatively join a 4WD safari to hurtle past dramatic landscapes and everyday scenes, from mountain goats sheltering beneath olive trees to the swathe of dark firs blanketing Mount Ainos.
It may be the bone-white beaches that first catch your eye in Kefalonia, but if you head inland you’ll discover a patchwork of vineyards responsible for some of the finest wines in Greece. Kefalonia has a rich winemaking tradition that dates back centuries, so it’s equally a cultural pursuit as much as it is a viticultural one. The terroir of the island is ideal for producing high-quality wines and we strongly suggest making the most of this delectable offering.
There is a range of indigenous grape varieties that contribute to the bold flavours of Kefalonian wine. Robola is the most famous and produces fresh, aromatic white wines while varieties like Mavrodaphne are used for fortified wines. Vineyard tours and wine tastings are two of the finest things to do in Kefalonia; a couple of good options are Gentilini Winery and the 19th-century Haritatos Estate in Lixouri.
Overall, Kefalonia is a shining gem of the Ionian Sea and has plenty of things to do that will appeal to a variety of travellers. With a blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty and outdoor activities, the opportunities for adventure are nearly endless. With its allure spanning from pristine beaches to verdant landscapes and historical treasures, Kefalonia proudly claims its position among the best destinations for unforgettable adventures in Greece.
Now you know what’s good in Kefalonia, why not check out our collection of luxury villas in Kefalonia? Don’t hesitate to contact our lovely concierge team if you need a helping hand with your booking!
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