Chasing the Sun: A 7-Day Kefalonia Itinerary Through the Best Beaches

  • Day 1: Myrtos Beach and Assos Village
    1 hour 14 minutes (29.7 km) from Kefalonia International Airport

    Start your trip in the iconic Myrtos Beach. Surrounded by majestic cliffs, this milky-white beached is ranked one of the best in Greece, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive to picturesque Assos Village, where you can see the centuries-old Venetian castle ruins, stroll through its colorful alleys, and taste delicious Mediterranean cuisine at a seafront taverna.

  • Day 2: Melissani Cave Lake and Makris Gialos Beach
    20 minutes (14.4 km) from Assos Village

    In the morning, explore the magnificent Melissani Cave Lake. This underground lake is illuminated by the sun, creating a breathtaking turquoise color that reflects on the surrounding cave walls. In the afternoon, unwind at the stunning Makris Gialos Beach, located near Argostoli. Known for its golden sands and shallow waters, it is ideal for families with children.

  • Day 3: Xi Beach and Lixouri town
    42 minutes (22.8 km) from Makris Gialos Beach

    Start your morning at the unique Xi Beach, famous for its reddish-brown sand and cliffs. Here, you can relax under colorful umbrellas, swim in the turquoise waters, and try a mud bath that will leave your skin smooth and glowing. In the evening, explore the charming town of Lixouri, home to many chic bars, restaurants, and shops.

  • Day 4: Petani Beach and Fiskardo village
    1 hour 14 minutes (49.8 km) from Lixouri town

    Spend your morning in Petani Beach, a hidden gem with clear waters and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. In the afternoon, visit Fiskardo village, famously known for its elegant Venetian architecture, colorful houses, and crystal-clear waters. It offers a sophisticated ambiance with its luxurious yacht rentals and sublime fine dining restaurants.

  • Day 5: Antisamos Beach and Sami village
    35 minutes (20.6 km) from Fiskardo village

    In the morning, relax at the Antisamos Beach, located near Sami village. This brilliant beach, surrounded by lush green mountains, is considered one of the most picturesque on the island. In the evening, explore the charming Sami village, which has an ancient acropolis, monasteries, and impressive natural landscapes to enchant visitors

  • Day 6: Platis Gialos Beach and Agia Efimia village
    20 minutes (11 km) from Sami village

    Start your day at Platis Gialos Beach, a tranquil beach in the southeast of the island. With calm waters and a serene atmosphere, it is perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet. In the evening, explore Agia Efimia village, a quaint harbor with colorful fishing boats, charming alleys, and small shops with local products.

  • Day 7: Poros Beach and Katelios village
    45 minutes (26.8 km) from Agia Efimia village

    Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and a green backdrop, Poros Beach is a stunning spot to unwind and relax with a good book. In the evening, end your trip to Kefalonia in the lovely Katelios village, known for its fresh seafood, magnificent sunsets, and local charm.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Myrtos Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Assos Village (2-3 hours, free)
  • Melissani Cave Lake (1-2 hours, €7 per person)
  • Makris Gialos Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Xi Beach (4-5 hours, €4 per person for sunbed and umbrella)
  • Lixouri town (2-3 hours, free)
  • Petani Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Fiskardo village (4-5 hours, free)
  • Antisamos Beach (3-4 hours, free)
  • Sami village (2-3 hours, free)
  • Platis Gialos Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Agia Efimia village (2-3 hours, free)
  • Poros Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Katelios village (2-3 hours, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: €11 per person (excluding food and transportation)

Transportation

By renting a car, you will have the freedom to explore the best beaches and attractions of Kefalonia at your own pace. The cost of renting a medium compact vehicle is around €35-40 per day, and the total distance traveled in this itinerary is approximately 210 km. Bear in mind that some roads are steep and winding, and some parking areas can be crowded in peak season, so drive carefully and avoid parking in unsupervised areas at night.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the lovely villages of Assos, Lourdata, and Skala, or taking a boat tour to the stunning beaches of Vardiani and Amidi. If you have less time, prioritize visiting the top 3 beaches: Myrtos, Petani, and Antisamos, and enjoy the local cuisine at family-run tavernas such as Trata in Fiskardo, and Palia Plaka in Agia Efimia. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and snorkeling gear, and always respect the beaches and the environment by avoiding littering or disturbing endangered species.

Airports

Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) is the main airport on the island, and is located in Svoronata village, just 8 km south of the island's capital, Argostoli. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, with several airlines such as Ryan Air, EasyJet, and Aegean Airlines operating direct flights from major European cities such as London, Berlin, and Athens. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport, and the estimated cost and time to reach most tourist places is approximately €25-30 and 20-40 minutes, respectively.

0