Home Attractions of Kefalonia

Attractions of Kefalonia

Kefalonia is an ideal destination for families, couples and single travellers as it offers a huge variety of attractions. As the island doesn’t draw mass tourism the traditional, cultural, natural and modern are all able to thrive.

Ancient historical sites survive alongside more recent historical monuments. Old abandoned villages and traditional coastal and mountain settlements provide glimpses into our past whilst modern villages and cities provide for modern tourism with up-to-date facilities.

Our huge coastline reveals tiny coves, long sweeping sandy beaches and magnificent dramatic cliff side shores. Some beaches are organised with facilities ranging from snack bars to restaurants, changing facilities, showers and waters ports whilst others remain remote or untouched.

There are many areas of outstanding natural beauty to explore; we have endemic species, wild horses, sea turtles and many plants and trees. Some are close to our villages and others are a little harder to find.

Browse our menu to see some the most important attractions, as well as some that are less known but that we love!

Natural Sights

Kefalonia is rich in flora, fauna, geological rarities, varies coastline, mountains and valleys. Natural beauty abounds in our lakes and seas, on our mountains ranges and in our extensive underworld cave system. Explorers ranging from casual walkers to hardened hikers, from divers to climbers, from sea bound adventurers to land loving car drivers will find something to enthral them. >>

Historical Sights

Ancient Greek to modern day historical sites are located around the island. Just a few exciting examples include Mycenaean tombs, an ancient acropolis, Byzantine landmarks, Roman mosaics and villas, lighthouses, Venetian fortresses, statues and monuments and even a WW2 submarine! >>

Beaches

Long, sweeping sandy beaches, small pebbly secret coves, majestic cliff side bays, organised beaches with sports and catering, remote and quiet inlets; with approximately 250km of coastline Kefalonia will have you spoiled for choice. >>

Villages

Stroll around any traditional fishing or mountain village on the island and see how life might have been in a by-gone era. See flower filled gardens, vegetable patches, local and foreign architectural styles and influences, small local cafes and stores. A small number of modern villages (catering largely for tourists) have sprung up, but remain modest and largely in keeping with the tranquillity of village life. >>

Churches & Monasteries

Greece has a long religious history reflected in the churches and monasteries found on the island. There are tiny cave-like churches full of glittering lamps and offerings, traditional churches with important religious images, and then the glorious interior of Saint Gerasimos and the adjoining church where the Saints relics rest. You can visit monasteries adorning the mountains to see some beautiful sites. >>

Museums

You can find many different museums reflecting our rich cultural, historical and artistic influences. Library-museums hold important historical manuscripts; books and photographs, folklore and cultural museums display traditional objects and their relationship to land and sea, whilst more modern influences are explored in other established museums.  >>

Flora & Fauna

You can find many different museums reflecting our rich cultural, historical and artistic influences. Library-museums hold important historical manuscripts; books and photographs, folklore and cultural museums display traditional objects and their relationship to land and sea, whilst more modern influences are explored in other established museums.  >>

  • Taking its name from its vegetation, Koutsoupia is a small cove between the endless blue of the Ionian sea and the ceaseless green of Kefalonia. A visitor might feel that paradise is a place on …

  • The combination of the gray argyle rocky background, the orange sand and the turquoise sea contrasting with the blue sky cannot be captured on the camera. Sandy and shallow, ideal for kids.

  • Poros Port and Village

    by Anna Votsi

    Poros is an attractive coastal village located 45 km south west of Argostoli, (the capital) and 35km from Agia Efimia. It is the main port of the island connecting it with the mainland at the port of …

  • Sunrises are beautiful moments lasting as much and as little to remain unforgettable… Dias (Zeus) is a rocky little island named after the ancient altar of Zeus. Today there is a small chapel built on …

  • Agia Sophia Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    The atmosphere of this beach is a return to our childhood memories. Olive trees almost touching the sea and some pre-earthquake reminiscence of a house standing by the sea will travel you back in time.

  • Saint Thomas Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    A combination of a small sandy cove and the rocky platforms that end in the crystal blue waters will leave you speechless. Ainos mountain’s view while swimming and wandering around the cliffs are beach’s musts.

  • The fine white pebbles and the huge rocks above the sea give this indescribable turquoise color to the waters of Afales beach. The steep dramatic cliffs and the lush vegetation color this portrait of wild …

  • Vegetated rocks end in the sea, a green valley between two hills and a small cove made of coarse pebbles shape the beach of Kapsolimionas.

  • Koroni beach

    by Anna Votsi

    Impressive mountainous background and soft sand are the characteristics of this golden beach. Ideal for families with kids as well as romantic couples wanting to stay late and look up to the shining stars, far …

  • Fteri and Amidi beaches

    by Anna Votsi

    Dense vegetation, craggy rocks spilling into the sand, rocks jutting out of the sea, white sand mixed with pebbles and deep blue waters, Fteri and Amidi is just one experience you will never forget!

  • One of the most isolated monasteries on the island, Zoodohos Pigi is more than just a nice experience. Located on the Ainos’s mountain slopes, at an altitude of 1200 meters, it is ideal for hiking.

  • A picturesque village by the sea and seaside bars and restaurants that beautify the atmosphere, the sandy beach in Katelios will never be too crowded. Simple and beautiful it won’t disappoint you.

  • Lepeda Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    A little lake formed by a rock that separates the beach in two and the reddish brown sand with swallow waters and a great taverna is ideal for families with children wanting to have fun …

  • During the 1953’s earthquake, the workmen of the kiln saw it collapsing completely. The production stopped and since then no traditional roof tile kilns existing in the Skala region. Kefalas’s kiln is located in Mounda …

  • Located 5 min from Agia Efimia, at the traditional village of Makriotika, there is a little Olive Museum! (Opening times for 2023 – Daily 10-13.00 & 18.-20.30) Olive oil production is a major component of …

  • As if taken out from a forest, Emplissi charms the most demanding visitors. Carved rocks on the side of the bay and vegetation that reaches down to the water give Emblissi this incomparable turquoise color.

  • This is a very special house-museum created by Takis Tokkas with a passion, deep knowledge of Kefalonian history and traditions, and a lot of personal work! It is worth a visit to see the collection …

  • Located just 6 km from Agia Efimia built in the 11th century with amazing views of Ithaca island and the Ionian sea, the visitors can relax under the shade of the oaks, cool even in …

  • The Environmental Centre of Mountain Ainos is responsible for protecting and conserving Ainos wildlife, flora and fauna. Ainos, apart from being the highest mountain of the Ionian Islands, is also a National Park.

  • One of the best attractions of the island’s town and home to many protected species, Koutavos Lagoon hosts a variety of animals – an integral part of Kefalonia’s flora and fauna.

  • At the south part of the island, near Sami and Antisamos, you can find the ruins of the Monastery of Saint Fanentes. The place offers an explicit view of Sami gulf and it is ideal …

  • A monastery of the 18th century is located just a few km from Sami with amazing views of Antisamos beach and Ithaka. The visit to the monastery can be combined with the walking trail of …

  • Roman Villa, Agia Efimia

    by Anna Votsi

    The Roman mansion of Agia Efimia dates back to early Christian times and was abandoned in the late Roman period. It is located on the main road of the village towards Fiskardo.

  • Roman Villa, Skala

    by Anna Votsi

    The only important and well-maintained monument of the Roman period in Kefalonia. Destroyed by fire in the 4th century AD, and it is located in Skala village, on the main road, near the sea.

  • Mazarakata Tombs, Livathos

    by Anna Votsi

    At the beginning of the 19th century, De Bosset found 4 Mycenaean tombs in the Mazarakata area whilst trying to find limestone for coating the roads. Since then, 13 more tombs have been excavated by …

  • Botanical Garden raises awareness of the flora of Kefalonia, as well as environmental issues. Visiting the well-organized Botanical Garden in Argostoli and having a self or guided tour by friendly personnel will be an entertaining …

  • The Focas-Cosmetatos Foundation is located in Argostoli, Kefalonia. It was established in 1984 with the endowment of the three brothers Spiridon, Kosmetos and Nikolaos Focas-Cosmetatos.The initial aims of the Foundation were: a) the conversion of …

  • Atros Monastery

    by Anna Votsi

    The monastery of Atros is located above Poros bay at an altitude of 760 meters. It is the oldest monastery on the island, built around the 8th century. A visit that takes you back in …

  • Wildlife Sense

    by Anna Votsi

    Wildlife Sense is a sea turtle research & conservation organization based on the beautiful island of Kefalonia, Greece. Their mission is to protect endangered sea turtles and their natural habitats, offer a unique learning experience …

  • Ancient Sami, trail

    by Anna Votsi

    If you fancy to travel back to history by walking through nature, then Ancient Sami’s trail is the best option. The ancient Acropolis of Sami, the ruins of the monastery of Agioi Fanentes and a …

  • Lagadakia beaches

    by Anna Votsi

    A small bay with white pebbles, green waters and big rocks all around, ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. It is located just below Gero Gobos Lighthouse and you can find more coves nearby.

  • Being a National Park and home to many rare species, Ainos Mountain is a great place for exploring Kefalonia’s flora and fauna, while wandering through the forest and guided paths. The panoramic sea view will …

  • Foki Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    Just below the firs, cypresses and olives that almost kiss the sea is Fokis’ gulf. A view across to Ithaca given with the natural shade of the trees will offer you moments of de-stress.

  • Kounopetra

    by Anna Votsi

    One more nature’s paradox! On your day trip around the area of Paliki, if you pass from the south, stop for a visit at Kounopetra. Just 8kms from Lixouri town, close to Xi and Vatsa …

  • Assos Castle

    by Anna Votsi

    Constructed in the 16th century, Assos Venetian Fortress and Castle are one of two castles in Kefalonia. Through a beautiful guided trail, the visitor can admire a spectacular view of Assos peninsula and Ionian Sea.

  • Gero Gobos Lighthouse

    by Anna Votsi

    At the southwest corner of Kefalonia on the Paliki Peninsula stands the Gero Gobos Lighthouse, near Lagadakia beach. This landscape of wild beauty offers a magnificent view of the sun setting in the Ionian Sea.

  • Vatsa Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    Vatsa, an untouched sandy bay with shallow waters and a small river that merges into the sea, with a pontoon bridge that could be a fun game for kids and adults!

  • Platia Ammos Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    One of the most pristine and secluded parts of the island that captivates you instantly with its wild beauty. Reached only by boat.

  • Kipouria Monastery

    by Anna Votsi

    This monastery of the 18th century stands upon a cliff that crashes into the Ionian. Located in the Lixouri peninsula, it offers one of the most spectacular sunset views you can enjoy while on the …

  • Karavomylos Lake

    by Anna Votsi

    A Dreamy Location! 8km from Agia Efimia and just 1km from Sami village, the traveller can visit Karavomylos Lake. According to scientists, Karavomylos is part of strange geological phenomena observed in Kefalonia: researchers have found that …

  • Drogarati Cave

    by Anna Votsi

    Natural Art Drogarati Cave was discovered 300 years ago and was opened to the public in 1963. It was discovered when a strong earthquake caused a collapse that revealed the cave’s entrance. It is close to Melissani Lake …

  • Kefalos Municipal Theater

    by Anna Votsi

    Culture The Municipal Theatre of Kefalos is the largest theatre stage of Kefalonia and it is located to the Vallianou central square, the center of Argostoli. It was built in 1857 where many famous operas …

  • Built-in 1828, the St Theodoroi Lighthouse is one of the three Lighthouses of Kefalonia. It is a romantic place to watch the sunset, and it can be combined with hiking or swimming in the nearby …

  • Alaties “Salty” Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    If you are looking for something more than a place to “switch off”, then Alaties is just that! A small pebble beach with turquoise waters lies well hidden in an area of wild natural beauty.

  • Two of the most famous destinations whilst at Kefalonia. Long, spacious and sandy beaches, with the sand grained finely and with crystal clear blue waters you just won’t get enough!

  • Lixouri town

    by Anna Votsi

    Kefalonia’s second largest town It is a beautiful little town, the second largest after Argostoli and the biggest one in the peninsula of Paliki. Lixouri is a lively working town and port with an interesting street layout, an impressive …

  • Katavothres

    by Anna Votsi

    One of the world’s most rare & astonishing geological phenomena Unique and strange phenomena are an intriguing part of the island’s mystique. Leaving Argostoli, on the way to the Lighthouse (Fanari) beautiful coast road, at approx …

  • The famous holy temple and the monastery of Saint Gerassimos, the Patron of Kefalonia island, and the religious centre as well are located at Omala. Every year, thousands of believers gather to worship Agios Gerassimos.

  • Former capital of the island, a place of great importance and beauty. Walking back to history through Saint George’s Castle and picturesque village and the pre-earthquake churches.

  • Sami village

    by Anna Votsi

    A historical town and port surrounded by lush vegetation! Sami is a beautiful coastal town located 9 km from Agia Efimia. It is the second largest port of Kefalonia after Argostoli, and it serves daily trips to Ithaca …

  • Dafnoudi Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    If you are a wanderer and like surprises, you will be amazed by Dafnoudi. Following the shaded trail through a cypress forest will lead you to a white-pebbled cove with a view toward Lefkada.

  • Horgota Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    A scenery that brings back memories from postcards of the 60s. The rich vegetation one’s eye can’t get enough of and the waves sound smoothly hitting the pebbles makes sense why this beach was chosen …

  • Assos peninsula is one of the most romantic places on the island! The colourful houses all over the hill, the calm sea and the Venetian Fortress buried in the forest will certainly catch your eye!

  • Petani Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    The big waves, the big green rocks disappearing into the sea and that deep blue waters color will give you an experience hard to forget. Do not miss the magnificent sunset!

  • Vouti Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    With exotic beauty and amazing water colours, Vouti is a great choice! Impressive rocks separate the beach in two, sand is mixed with fine pebbles. Vouti has a beach bar and is partly organized.

  • Xi Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    Reddish sand, clay rocks and shallow waters- ideal for children to play and relax- just opposite the Vardiani islet, Xi is not just another beach!

  • Argostoli, the vibrant capital of Kefalonia, blends seaside charm with lively local culture. Stroll along its pedestrian bridge and the central paved promenade and enjoy fresh cuisine, explore historic sites, and experience the warm atmosphere …

  • The island’s longest beach with fine and coarse pebbles, a pine forest behind it looking out over Zakynthos and the gentle sound of the waves caressing the ears, you will want to come again.

  • Fiskardo Village

    by Anna Votsi

    Preserved beauty! Fiskardo is a picturesque and cosmopolitan harbour village, 60km from the capital of Argostoli and 32km from Agia Efimia in the northern part of the island. It is situated in the beautiful region …

  • Antisamos Beach

    by Anna Votsi

    With a palette that grades from the green color coming from the forest in the hills to the blue of the sea and the sky, you will want to go nowhere else in the world.

  • Centrally located, picturesque, with nice little beaches and good tavernas! Once upon a time, Agia Efimia was one of the island’s more important centres of trade with stately homes and mansions. However, the whole village …

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