Eylul Tunc 
It is the time for the summer holiday and of course, you want to swim in crystal clear water, get a suntan on the beautiful beaches and have a relaxing time. So let’s go to one of the most beautiful Greek islands, Kefalonia!
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and was severely hit by the 1953 earthquake. Even though many historic buildings are devastated, the island still preserves its picturesque look. In Kefalonia, you will find beautiful greek restaurants, lively nightlife, spectacular beaches, as well as some great nature.
In this blog post I will talk about 6 top areas where to stay in Kefalonia. Being a very popular holiday destination in Greece, Kefalonia offers a great selection of hotels for all budgets. For you dear travelers I went through tons of hotels and chose the best ones where you could have a memorable holiday.
As these are the best ones, you have to be quick and make a reservation in advance if you don’t want to miss them. Many of the hotels have a free cancelation, so don’t worry if you change your mind. I also highly recommend you to rent a car in advance too, to get around easily on the island of Kefalonia.
If you are ready like me, let’s get started!
Contents
If you are in a hurry
Here are the best places to stay in Kefalonia with hotels from luxury to budget. They all have great reviews and great locations!
Here is a map for where to stay in Kefalonia with all the best 6 areas of the island I will be talking about in this blog post and giving hotels in each, so you can easily visualize them:
- Skala: for first-timers
- Argostoli: for budget travelers
- Fiskardo: for luxury travelers
- Sami: for the local vibe
- Assos: for couples
- Lassi: for beachfront accommodations
1. Skala – where to stay in Kefalonia for the first time
Located on the southernmost tip of the island and a 40 minute drive from the airport, Skala is the town where you will find the most famous beaches with blue flag cleanness certificates, shops, bars, and restaurants. As you will find a bit of everything and feel the Greek island vibe here, my pick for first-timers is definitely Skala.
Once you step into Skala, you will see picturesque, colorful Venetian buildings home to many tavernas and shops. At night, simply enjoy a stroll along the coast and pick a nice seafood restaurant and get ready to have a festive meal.
I know you are also curious about the beaches so you will be happy to know that there is no possibility to be disappointed in Skala. You will find some of the best beaches with an incredible turquoise sea. Can it get any better than that?
Skala is one of the most popular towns in Kefalonia with a great selection of hotels for every budget and I’ve already discovered the best ones for you. Just keep in mind that these hotels are selling too fast so make sure to make a booking in advance to not miss them!
For those of you who are not quite sold on Kefalonia just yet, you might like to read my guides for Zakynthos and Corfu as well to choose your perfect island getaway. That being said, let’s see the best places to stay in this beautiful town of Skala:
This luxurious boutique hotel offers 2 nice swimming pools, stylish rooms with sea views, and free parking. Skala Beach, restaurants, and bars are within walking distance. By staying at Ktima Fabiatos Hotel you will enjoy staying in nature and being close to the main attractions. With its spacious rooms, this hotel is also a great place to stay for families.
Other accommodation options in Skala
This beautiful hotel has nice rooms overlooking the Ionian Sea with a beautiful sun terrace. Main attractions are within walking distance
A family-run hotel which has a great location, quiet rooms with free wifi. Sandy Skala Beach and local restaurants are a short walk
These nice apartments come with spacious rooms with an amazing sea view. The beach and the restaurants are around a 15-minute walk
Things to do in Skala
- Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water at Skala Beach
- Visit the Roman Villa
- Get a suntan at Kamila Beach
- Check out the numerous bars and tavernas on the waterfront
2. Argostoli – for those on a budget
Situated on the southwest coast of the island and just a 15 minutes drive from the airport, Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia. Even though it is the biggest town in the city it is not as touristy as the other parts which enable you to find hotels with better prices.
In the capital Argostoli, there is a very nice palm tree-lined waterfront where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset stroll. The main landmarks in the town are De Bosset Bridge, the Saint Theodoroi Lighthouse, and Katavothres. Gradakia Beach is the best beach in Argostoli for swimming in the crystal clear water as well as having a greek coffee while suntanning. Perfect!
Nightlife is also nice in Argostoli. At night you can enjoy listening to Greek music in the nice tavernas or have a drink in any of the lively bars.
As I’ve already said it is not difficult to find budget accommodation in Argostoli. That’s why my answer for where to stay in Kefalonia on a budget is Argostoli. In order not to miss the best deals for these fabulous hotels make sure to make your booking in advance!
Featuring stylish rooms overlooking the sea, a nice bar where you can enjoy your drinks on its large sun terrace with a picturesque view, and free private parking, Aenos Hotel is the best place to stay in Argostoli. There is also a nice communal lounge with fancy furnishings where you can spend a great time with your families. Restaurants and shops are just a short walk away.
Other accommodation options in Argostoli
This boutique hotel has an amazing location in the town just by the sea where you can enjoy the nice view from your room
Onar apartments offer free parking and family-friendly rooms with a great location. Beaches are within walking distance
This is one of the best apartments in Argostoli and a great place for families. The Airbnb has fully furnished large rooms with a big terrace
Things to do in Argostoli
- Visit Corgialenios Historical and Cultural Museum
- Have a nice Greek coffee at Coffee Island
- Go for a nice dinner at Taverna Patsouras
- Join a boat tour and discover the surroundings of the coast
- Chill and swim at Gradakia Beach
- Join a tour to discover breathtaking Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake
- Visit De Bosset Bridge, the Saint Theodoroi Lighthouse, and Katavothres
3. Fiskardo – the best town for luxury travelers
Located at the northern edge of the island, Fiskardo is one of the most scenic towns in Kefalonia and a famous stop for luxury yachts. It is an old fishing village and the least affected place by the 1953 earthquake which helped Fiskardo to preserve its historic buildings.
Once you arrive in Fiskardo you will instantly realize how glamorous it is!
Some of the amazing beaches situated here are Zavaleta Beach and Foki Beach. If you walk to the waterfront you will see many luxurious yachts anchored facing beautiful Greek houses. You can simply enjoy a walk there and check out the upmarket restaurants and bars.
Thanks to being a frequent destination for luxury yachts, here you will find upmarket accommodations that are accordingly glamorous. You don’t need to worry, I’ve already chosen the best ones for you for all budgets so here are the best places to stay in Fiskardo:
This luxury resort is located in the historic part of the village and offers a pleasant stay with its glamorous rooms, a large terrace, and a coffee machine. You can rent a bike from the resort and enjoy cycling along the cute streets of Fiskardo. Family-friendly rooms are available too.
Other accommodation options in Fiskardo
This beautiful resort offers an epic swimming pool with a view, a private beach, and quiet rooms
Located in the charming part of the village this hotel features rooms with a terrace and free wifi
This Airbnb offers spacious rooms with a large terrace with a beautiful sea view and great amenities
Things to do in Fiskardo
- Hike to Venetian Lighthouse and check out the amazing view
- Have a nice meal at one of the seafront tavernas
- Check out the designer shops in Fiskardo’s street
- Spend time at stunning beaches such as Fiskardo Beach, Zavata Beach, and Foki Beach
4. Sami – best for a local vibe
Sami is located in the eastern part of the island and a 40-minute drive from Kefalonia Airport. Thanks to its status as the second-largest port on the island and its proximity to many coastal villages, Sami is also a famous stopover place for the yachts and boats.
Here you will find pebble beaches such as Karavomilos, and Antisamos Beach, tavernas and bars with local vibes, and nice souvenir shops.
Even though it is a popular town in Kefalonia you will feel a traditional Greek island atmosphere in Sami. Personally, I’ve always liked this kind of town which enables you to have local experiences so if you are a person like me you will enjoy staying in Sami.
Let’s check out the best places to stay in this beautiful town.
Ionian Emerald Resort is the most popular resort in Sami offering a large swimming pool, private beach, a luxurious spa, and a nice bar. You can enjoy spending time in the large garden and have a great summertime on the resort’s sandy beach. Featuring a kid’s pool and family-friendly rooms, Ionian Emerald Resort is also a great place to stay for families.
Other accommodation options in Sami
Featuring a nice swimming pool, this resort has a great location with easy access to traditional tavernas, bars, and shops
Self-catering hotel which offers fully furnished rooms and it is just a few minutes walk away from the Sami Beach
This Airbnb offers fully furnished rooms with mountains views and has easy access to sandy beaches
Things to do in Sami
- Spend time on the Karavomilos Beach
- Take a boat to Ithaca
- Enjoy nice seafood in a traditional Greek tavern with a sea view
- Go swimming in the crystal clear water at Antisamos Beach
5. Assos – great for couples
Located in the northern part of the island and being an hour’s drive from Kefalonia airport, Assos is a perfect place to stay in Kefalonia with its quiet and romantic vibe. Even the village’s main square is called Paris Square so I think it cannot be more convincing than this to show how romantic this village is!
Once you arrive in Assos the view you will see is literally like a painting. Imagine cute colorful buildings lined up by the incredibly turquoise water, so romantic right!? Here the main landmarks you will find are; the Venetian castle of Assos, picturesque Myrtos beach (which is the most photographed beach in Kefalonia thanks to Captain Corelli’s Mandolin movie shoot), and many nice tavernas and bars.
There are also nice accommodation options for couples here but the number of hotels is limited. That’s why to be on the safe side make sure to make your booking in advance! Let’s check out the most romantic hotels in Kefalonia.
This beachfront resort offers an amazing swimming pool with a spectacular sea view, nicely decorated spacious rooms, and a great bar. You can enjoy a relaxing summer day having a cocktail on the beautiful terrace and watch boats passing by. The famous Myrtos beach is 10 km (7 miles) away from the resort.
Other accommodation options in Assos
This beachfront hotel features a stylish swimming pool and rooms with sea views where you can enjoy a quiet holiday in nature
Located just a few minutes walk away from the beach, this hotel offers rooms with a coffee machine and free wifi
Airbnb which offers fully furnished rooms with panoramic sea view with a nice terrace and has easy access to the beach
Things to do in Assos
- Visit the Venetian castle of Assos
- Have nice greek food in a traditional Greek tavern
- Take a dip in the beautiful clear waters
- Have a romantic stroll in the Paris Square with your partner
- Spend time at Myrtos beach where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin movie was shot
6. Lassi – for those who want to stay by the beach
Lassi is located on the western coast of the island and just a 10-minute drive from Kefalonia Airport and Argostoli. Here you will find the nice Gradakia Beach as well as plenty of beachfront hotels. So for those of you who want to stay close to the beautiful sand and sea, Lassi is your place.
Apart from stunning beaches Lassi also has a lively nightlife. Here you will be able to find a great selection of bars, live music places, and tavernas. So spend your whole day on the beach relaxing and swimming in the turquoise water then enjoy an amazing meal followed by some bar hopping.
If that already sounds exciting, here are the best places to stay in Lassi that I chose especially for you.
White Rocks is one of the best resorts in Kefalonia with its infinity pool, excellent bar, and stylish rooms that have picturesque sea views. Lively bars and restaurants are within walking distance and family-friendly quiet rooms are available too.
Other accommodation options in Lassi
At the heart of the village, this gorgeous hotel offers quiet rooms with a spectacular terrace, free wifi, and parking
The centrally located self-catering hotel has a swimming pool, bar, and great access to the beaches and tavernas
Self-catering Airbnb with amazing modern amenities inclduing a large terrace overlooking the sea located in the town center
Things to do in Lassi
- Spend time on the amazing Gradakia Beach
- Try a diving experience
- Rent a bike and discover the surroundings of the village
- Head on a day trip to Xi Beach with orange sand and white cliffs
- Enjoying swimming in turquoise water at Makris Gialos
- Have a drink with beautiful sea views at Logos Grand View Cocktail Bar
| 👑 Luxury price: | €300 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €60 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | €130 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best Area: | Skala |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Fiscardonna Luxury Suites |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Nicolas & Regina |
BONUS: Top 4 things to do in Kefalonia
In Kefalonia, there is much more to discover than just the town you choose to stay in. If you want to do different activities and see more interesting places, now I will give you the 4 best things to do including some great day trip options. Lixouri can be reached by boat but for the others, I highly recommend renting a car.
1. Hike Mount Atros and discover Poros
Just outside the town of Poros, Situated on the south-eastern coast of Kefalonia, you can find many hiking trails at Mount Atros. For those of you who love the outdoors or just want to work up a sweat will love the mountains surrounding this picturesque town.
Mount Atros offers the reward of amazing views from above the cliffs for anyone who climbs its 760m. You can also check out the Atros monastery, dating back to 800 AD which is built up here. If you head here for sunset, you will not be disappointed!
The town of Poros itself is a picturesque coastal village with a busy working port. There are two nice beaches to relax on after your hike; Aragia and Ragia, and if you have more time you should see the Drakena Cave and the stunning Gorge of Vohyna. Poros is really worth a day trip especially if you are based on the eastern coast.
2. Take a boat trip to Lixouri
Located on the eastern coast of the island, Lixouri is a nice town you can reach with a 20-minute boat trip from Argostoli. Here you can also take boats to the other Greek islands if you want to venture even further.
In Lixouri, you will find the beautiful beaches of Lepeda, Xi Beach (with orange sand and white cliffs), and Mega Lakos. If you go to the main square of the town ‘Plateia Petritsi’ you can enjoy shopping in the local shops, have delicious Greek food in beautiful tavernas and enjoy some Greek wine in the bars. Lixouri must be on your Kefalonia travel itinerary.
3. Visit the amazing Drogarati Cave and Melissani Cave
If you drive 35 mins to the north of Poros you can visit the amazing Drogarati Cave and Melissani Cave. Dragorati is around 60m underground and was discovered when the entrance collapsed after the earthquake!
Melissani Cave is totally different and just as instagrammable. This one is open at the top which lets the sun come in and illuminate the turquoise water inside. There are tours available from Argostoli if you don’t want to drive but these impressive caves must be definitely on your Kefalonia itinerary!
4. See the turtles at Kaminia beach in Katelios Village
Katelios Village which is located just 6 km (4 miles) west of Skala, is a very nice coastal village offering local shopping options, great cafes, and taverns. In Katelios Village you can find Kaminia beach.
Not only is it a great beach in it’s own right, here you will be able to see the famous Caretta turtles swimming in the turquoise water. This surely is an incredible experience for the whole family, who wouldn’t love the opportunity to see this beautiful creatures in their natural habitat!
Frequently asked questions about Kefalonia
🗺️ What is the best area to stay in Kefalonia?
If you are visiting Kefalonia for the first time, Skala is the best place to stayoffering a lot of things such as traditional Greek restaurants, nice beaches, and great resorts. Ktima Fabiatos and Summer Sun are good resorts here.
🤔 Where should I stay in Kefalonia without a car?
If you don’t want to drive a car, the capital city Argostoli is a great place to stay where you can reach everything without a car.
⏱️ How many days do you need in Kefalonia?
Allowing a minimum of 3 days would be great to see the main parts of the island.
🏝️ What are the best resorts in Kefalonia?
Fiscardonna Luxury Suites and Ionian Emerald Resort are the best resorts in Kefalonia with great amenities.
👫 Where are the best hotels to stay in Kefalonia for couples?
Assos is the best village to stay in Kefalonia for couples with its romantic vibe.
🏖️ Are there any sandy beaches in Kefalonia?
Yes, Skala Beach and the beaches in Lassi village are thenicest sandy beaches in Kefalonia.
Conclusion
Now it is time for me to say goodbye to you. In this blog post, I talked about the best places to stay on Kefalonia Island with the hotels from luxury to budget as well as Airbnbs in each town and gave information about the things that you can do there.
As I’ve already mentioned, Skala is the best place to stay for first-timers. However, if you rent a car you can easily get around on the island and discover other areas as well. I would like to remind you again that Kefalonia is a very popular summer holiday destination. That’s why I highly recommend you make a reservation in advance to not miss your favorite place!
To wrap up, here are the best 2 hotels on Kefalonia island with easy access to the beach and good reviews that I definitely recommend you to stay in.
- Fiscardonna Luxury Suites – The best luxury hotel in Kefalonia located in Fiskardo
- Tourist Boutique Hotel – A very nice boutique hotel located in Argostoli
If you have any other suggestions or questions about Kefalonia Island and Greece please leave a comment below. I’ll be happy to leave a reply to them!
Have a great summer holiday in Greece,
Eylul
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