Kefalonia is the largest and one of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea. It offers stunning scenery, charming villages, pristine beaches, and a rich history and culture. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous holiday, or a mix of both, Kefalonia has something for everyone. But where should you stay in Kefalonia? What are the best areas and hotels for different budgets and preferences? In this blog post, we will help you answer these questions and give you some tips and recommendations on how to make the most of your stay in Kefalonia.
The Best Areas to Stay in Kefalonia
Kefalonia is divided into eight municipalities, each with its own character and attractions. Depending on what you are looking for, you can choose from the following areas:
-
Skala
– This is one of the most popular resorts in Kefalonia, especially for first-time visitors. It has a long sandy beach, a lively town center with shops, bars, and restaurants, and a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury. Skala is also a good base for exploring the nearby attractions, such as the Roman villa with its beautiful mosaics, the ancient temple of Apollo at Poros, and the Drogarati Cave. -
Argostoli
– This is the capital and largest town of Kefalonia, located on a natural harbor on the west coast. It is a modern and vibrant town with plenty of amenities and entertainment options. You can stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the fishing boats and the loggerhead turtles in the port, shop at the local market and boutiques, visit the museums and monuments, or enjoy the nightlife at the bars and clubs. Argostoli also has some nice beaches nearby, such as Kalamia Beach and Gradakia Beach. -
Fiskardo
– This is one of the few towns that survived the devastating earthquake of 1953, preserving its Venetian architecture and charm. It is located on the northern tip of Kefalonia, overlooking the island of Ithaca. It is a picturesque fishing village with a colorful harbor full of yachts and boats, surrounded by green hills and cypress trees. Fiskardo is a popular destination for luxury travelers, as it has some of the best hotels and restaurants on the island. -
Sami
– This is a small town on the east coast of Kefalonia, facing the island of Ithaca. It has a natural bay with a pebbly beach, a quaint port with fishing boats and ferries, and a friendly atmosphere. Sami is a good choice for those who want to experience a local vibe and enjoy some authentic Greek cuisine. Sami is also close to some of the most famous attractions of Kefalonia, such as Melissani Lake, Antisamos Beach, and Agia Efimia. -
Lourdas
– This is a quiet resort on the south coast of Kefalonia, nestled between Mount Ainos and Lourdas Bay. It has a long sandy beach with clear blue water, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Lourdas is also home to F Zeen, one of the best wellness hotels in Kefalonia, offering yoga classes, spa treatments, and healthy food. Lourdas is a great place to relax and reconnect with nature. -
Lixouri
– This is the second largest town of Kefalonia, located on the Paliki Peninsula on the west coast. It is connected to Argostoli by ferry or by road around the bay. Lixouri has a lively square with cafes, taverns, and shops, as well as some cultural attractions such as the Iakovatios Library and Museum. Lixouri also has some beautiful beaches nearby, such as Xi Beach with its red sand and clay cliffs. -
Assos
– This is one of the most scenic villages in Kefalonia, situated on a small peninsula on the west coast. It has a horseshoe-shaped bay with turquoise water, a pebbly beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, and a charming village with whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies. Assos is also known for its Venetian castle on top of the hill, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. -
Svoronata
– This is a peaceful village on the south coast of Kefalonia, close to the airport and the capital. It has a rural feel, with olive groves, vineyards, and stone cottages. Svoronata has three sandy beaches, Ammes, Avithos, and Ai Helis, all with calm water and stunning sunsets. Svoronata is a good option for those who want to stay close to the main attractions and amenities, but also enjoy some tranquility and privacy. -
Aghia Efimia
– This is a lovely village on the east coast of Kefalonia, between Sami and Fiskardo. It has a small harbor with fishing boats and yachts, a pebbly beach with crystal clear water, and a cozy town center with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Aghia Efimia is a good base for exploring the nearby attractions, such as Melissani Lake, Antisamos Beach, Myrtos Beach, and Dafnoudi Beach. -
Karavomilos
– This is a small village on the east coast of Kefalonia, next to Sami. It has a lake with ducks and geese, a watermill, and a bakery. Karavomilos is also close to some of the most famous attractions of Kefalonia, such as Melissani Lake, Antisamos Beach, and Agia Efimia. -
Lassi
– This is a popular resort on the west coast of Kefalonia, near Argostoli. It has two sandy beaches, Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, both with clear blue water and plenty of facilities. Lassi also has a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, as well as restaurants, bars, and shops. Lassi is a good choice for those who want to have easy access to the capital and the airport, but also enjoy some beach time. -
Poros
– This is a small town on the southeast coast of Kefalonia, facing the mainland. It has a long pebbly beach with green water, a port with ferries to Kyllini and Ithaca, and a town center with taverns, cafes, and shops. Poros is also close to some of the most beautiful attractions of Kefalonia, such as Skala Beach, the Roman villa at Skala, the temple of Apollo at Poros, and the Monastery of Atros.
The Best Hotels in Kefalonia
Kefalonia has a wide range of hotels to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best hotels in Kefalonia that we recommend:
-
F Zeen
– This is one of the best wellness hotels in Kefalonia, located in Lourdas Bay. It offers stylish rooms and suites with sea views, three swimming pools, a spa, a gym, a yoga studio, and a restaurant serving healthy food. F Zeen also organizes various activities and excursions for its guests, such as snorkeling, paddle boarding, hiking, and cooking classes. F Zeen is ideal for those who want to relax and rejuvenate in a natural setting.
Book your stay at F Zeen here.
-
Emelisse Nature Resort
– This is one of the best luxury hotels in Kefalonia, located in Fiskardo. It offers elegant rooms and suites with sea or garden views, an infinity pool with panoramic views of Emblisi Bay, an Elemis Spa, a tennis court, a gym,
and two restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine. Emelisse Nature Resort also provides free shuttle service to Fiskardo and Emblisi Beach. Emelisse Nature Resort is perfect for those who want to enjoy some comfort and sophistication in a beautiful location.
Book your stay at Emelisse Nature Resort here.
-
Kefalonia Grand
– This is one of the best boutique hotels in Kefalonia,
located in Argostoli. It offers modern rooms and suites with sea or city views,
a rooftop terrace with jacuzzi,
a lounge bar,
and a restaurant serving fusion cuisine.
Kefalonia Grand also offers bike rental,
car rental,
and concierge services.
Kefalonia Grand is ideal for those who want to stay in the heart of the capital
and experience its culture
and nightlife
