Saint Gerasimos, the patron saint of Kefalonia, holds a special place in the hearts of the island’s people. His relics are preserved in a glass case above his tomb in the Monastery that bears his name—a sacred and cherished site.
Born in 1506 into the wealthy Notaras family, Saint Gerasimos became a monk at Mount Athos and later spent 12 years in Jerusalem. He arrived in Kefalonia in 1555 after living in Crete and Zakynthos. For five years, he resided in a cave near Lassi before founding the Monastery near Valsamata, where he supported the underprivileged and offered charitable aid.
Kefalonians believe Saint Gerasimos heals illnesses and often name their children after him. His incorrupt body, exhumed intact twice, is displayed in the Monastery. On August 16, his feast day, his relics are carried over the sick, as they are believed to have healing powers.
After the devastating 1953 earthquake, many claimed to see Saint Gerasimos comforting and aiding the injured, further deepening his veneration among the people.
A Black Forest all year round, thanks to the distinct dark green hue of its unique fir species. Mount Ainos, with its imposing presence, is a must-see for anyone visiting Kefalonia.
Rising high above the island, this majestic mountain is home to a National Park that shelters rare and unique species of flora and fauna in an environment of untamed natural beauty. Its peack (Megas Soros) is at 1628 meters above sea level.
Hike through the tallest mountain on the island and immerse yourself in the deep green of the Black Fir forest, dominated by the endemic Abies cephalonica trees. But the adventure doesn’t end there! Keep an eye out for the famous wild horses of Mount Ainos. These gentle creatures have thrived in the wild for centuries, though their numbers have dwindled over the years, making each sighting a memorable experience.
As you continue your journey, more wonders await. Discover hidden trails, mysterious caves, and enchanting lakes that showcase the mountain’s unrivaled natural beauty.
A short distance east of Argostoli, on the road to Sami, lie the remnants of the ancient city of Krane and its acropolis. Krane was one of the four city-states comprising the “Kefalonian Tetrapolis” between 500 and 200 BC. The mountainous terrain naturally separated these cities, which, despite their rivalry, maintained their political and economic autonomy, even minting their own coins.
The Cyclopean walls of Krane, constructed with massive stone blocks, date back to the 7th–6th century BC. These walls earned their name from the ancient Greek belief that they were built by the mythical Cyclopes.
The archaeological site is easily accessible via a marked trail near the village of Razata. Visitors can marvel at the ingenuity of the ancient Greeks in creating such monumental structures, a feat that remains awe-inspiring even in the age of modern technology.
Krane was amphitheatrically situated on the southern and western slopes of the hill, with a simple urban design centered around a main thoroughfare. At the northern base of Kastelli Hill, a sanctuary dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, has been uncovered.
Perched on Mount Lapitha, the Ancient Acropolis of Sami offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sami harbor and its surrounding area. Visitors can access the site via picturesque trails that connect the Acropolis to Roman ruins scattered throughout the region, creating a unique exploration experience.
With a history dating back to the Paleolithic era, ancient Sami was a powerful and autonomous city-state with its own currency. It was a thriving and populous settlement with impressive fortifications, flourishing due to trade development and population growth.
The Acropolis is situated on the hills of Paliokastro and Agioi Fanentes, offering unparalleled vistas of Sami’s natural beauty. A visit to this historic site is a journey through history, nature, and culture, making it an unforgettable experience.
Antisamos Beach is one of the top destinations in Kefalonia for swimming and sunbathing. Located 30.6 km east of Argostoli and near Sami port, it is renowned for its turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green hills that create a breathtaking natural landscape.
The beach is well-organized, featuring umbrellas, sunbeds, and three beach bars, along with watersport facilities. Beyond the main area, nature lovers and sunbathers can explore a serene spot behind the hill. Adding to its charm is the historic Monastery of Agrillion, perched atop the hill overlooking the beach.
Antisamos gained international recognition as a filming location for the Hollywood movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. It is easily accessible via the coastal road from Sami, making it a convenient and picturesque destination for all.
The picturesque city of Argostoli lies on the hills surrounding the Koutavos Lagoon and its expansive natural harbor. The city was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1953, retaining its charm and historical significance.
Argostoli is a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub, particularly lively in summer, offering numerous activities for visitors. Its centerpiece is Vallianou Square, lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Nearby, you’ll find the historic Napier Garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Cultural enthusiasts should visit the Archaeological Museum, the Korgialenio Historical and Folklore Museum (in the same building as the Korgialenio Library), and the Fokas-Kosmetatos Museum. Don’t miss the Harokopio Workshop, a unique exhibition of handmade embroidery, the Radio Museum, and the Botanical Garden.
Lithostroto is the main pedestrian shopping street, featuring various stores and landmarks such as the church of Agios Spyridon and the bell tower with its clock at Campana Square.
One of the most popular walks is along the promenade, starting from the stone bridge. This path takes you past local fishermen selling their catch and offers a chance to see Caretta caretta sea turtles swimming near the surface—a rare and delightful spectacle
Around 36 km north of Argostoli, the capital city of Kefalonia, lies the tiny yet enhancing village of Assos, a hidden, artistically beautiful place that will provide you with a very relaxing experience and is worth visiting!
This small village is one of the must-sees due to its harmonic mixture of picturesque elements.
It’s located on the hill of the small Erissos peninsula. Although its size is tiny and its population doesn’t surpass 100 in number, it’s a place that carries great historical significance, due to its strategic location.
The De Bosset Bridge, designed and constructed by Charles Philip De Bosset in 1812, is a landmark structure in Kefalonia. Following the devastating 1953 earthquake, the bridge underwent significant restoration and now serves as a popular venue for public events during the summer months.
Renowned as the largest stone bridge over seawater, the De Bosset Bridge was completed in 1813 by Swiss engineer Charles Philippe De Bosset, who was working for the British Army at the time. His efforts in designing and constructing the bridge earned him the position of governor of Cephalonia from 1810 to 1814, during the British rule over the Ionian Islands (1809–1864).
Before the bridge’s construction, the narrow Fanari Peninsula separated Argostoli from the rest of Kefalonia, forcing residents to take a 5 km detour around the bay. To address this, a wooden bridge was initially built in Drapano, a small village 950 meters across the water. This temporary solution alleviated transportation challenges and security concerns for the villagers.
In 1842, the bridge was rebuilt with stone by Baron Everton, using materials sourced from Metela Hill, giving it the robust design seen today. At the center of the bridge, a symmetrical four-sided obelisk, known as the “Column,” rises from the water. Erected in 1813, it symbolizes the gratitude of the Kefalonian Parliament to Great Britain.
The 1953 earthquake damaged part of the bridge near Argostoli, but both the structure and the obelisk survived. Subsequent repairs incorporated modern concrete methods and additional arches for reinforcement. Today, the bridge has been fully restored and is a focal point for cultural events in Argostoli.
While touring around Fiscardo, Emblisi beach is really close and definitely worth a visit. A stunning cosy bay with beautiful waters, Emblisi beach is surrounded by amazing scenery.
You can either reach the beach on foot or by car. Walking to Emblisi should take you about 40 minutes. The trek is not easy because it’s mostly uphill on both sides of the route. There’s also the possibility of a taxi ride to the beach from Fiscardo.
White flat pebbles might make your plunge into the sea a little bit tricky, but the azure blue waters will certainly reward you. You should also bring your snorkelling gear with you, as the magnificent seabed around the rocks will dazzle you. While there’s a canteen on the beach, remember that Emblisi is not an organized beach overall, so it might be a good idea to carry with you food and beverages.
In typical weather situations, the bay is protected and safe for children. But you should keep in mind that it can get quite windy. The flat rocks on both sides of the bay are also great for sunbathing, sometimes even more comfortable than lying on the beach.
A 320-meter-high peak towering above the villages of Travliata and Peratata, the Venetian Castle of Saint George is deeply tied to the history of Kefalonia! Showcasing a polygonal shape and covering an area of about 16,000 square meters, the castle’s origins date back to the 12th century during the Byzantine era before falling into the hands of the Turks and finally blossoming into what it is today under the Venetian rule during the early 16th century.
After its total completion, this fortress used to be the capital of Kefalonia up until 1757. However, two earthquakes in the 17th century, plus the catastrophic earthquake of 1953, left the Castle of Saint George heavily destroyed, with its fortifications having suffered a lot of damage.
The site features a small cost in order to enter and explore the ruins, where you will also find various coats of arms from Venetian families! Visitors will enjoy the castle’s fantastic landscape views over Argostoli and the neighboring villages, though it is also a great chance to visit the ruins of the Evangelistria medieval-era church and the church of Agios Theodoros! Otherwise, you may relax in one of the nearby cafeterias and restaurants.
The vast lagoon that extends northeast of the city of Argostoli is known as Koutavos or as Argostoli lagoon. The stone De Bosset bridge borders Koutavos lagoon which is quite shallow in depth not exceeding two meters. It is home to various species of birds and fish and the famous Caretta carettas swim in the lagoon during mating season.
It was named after the ancient word “kottavos” which stands for bowl. It is a very shallow bay, only for small boats, which used to be swampy and impassable, full of mosquitoes carrying lots of diseases and infections.
Since the construction of the bridge in 1813, the Koutavos lagoon has improved and is one of the most visited sights in Kefalonia, where tourists can stroll around admiring nature.
If you visit Kefalonia, it’s quite impossible not to stroll through Lithostroto street. It’s Argostoli’s most vibrant road filled with life and people all year round.
It’s a charming pedestrian street, a picturesque setting for your morning and evening walks. Starting from Kampana square, Lithostroto almost reaches Vallianou square in a parade of shops, cafés and restaurants for every taste.
Famous Saint Spyridon church is located along the shopping street.
The heart of Kefalonia beats at Lithostroto where a lot of traditional customs take place every year such as serenades, religious events and local traditions.
Situated just outside Sami, the Cave of Melissani in Kefalonia has a strange appeal. It is one of the most significant places for tourists to visit in Greece. Surprisingly, a lake lies inside the cave, with trees and forests surrounding it.
The cave is B-shaped, with two chambers or halls separated by an island in the center. The first chamber is sun-lit while the second is dark and has many stalactites covered with algae and moss. Even though big in size, they are dwarfed by the huge dome. Surprisingly, many of the stalactites resemble dolphins, the companions and messengers of the nymphs. This chamber is lit with electric lights.
The roof of one of the halls caved in centuries ago, letting sunlight filter in. The depth of the lake is 20 to 30 meters. When the sun is right overhead at noon, the sunlight hitting the turquoise-blue waters creates a magical illusion and the whole Cave of Melissani suddenly feels lit with blue light.
This is the best time to visit this cave; slanting rays in the morning and evening have a magical quality and guests get an ethereal feeling of boats hovering in the light!
The Memorial to the Fallen of the Acqui Division is located on the island of Kefalonia, Greece, and honors the Italian soldiers who lost their lives during the German occupation of Greece in 1943, specifically during the massacre of the Acqui Division in Kefalonia.
The Acqui Division was an Italian military unit stationed on Kefalonia during World War II. After Italy’s surrender and the fall of the fascist regime, the Germans decided to disarm the Italian forces. On September 8, 1943, when Italy signed an armistice with the Allies, the Germans launched an attack on the Acqui Division stationed in Kefalonia. Despite efforts to resist, the Italian soldiers were no match for the German forces.
As a result of these confrontations, more than 5,000 Italian soldiers were executed or died from the harsh conditions. This massacre remains one of the most tragic episodes of the German occupation in Greece.
The memorial, located near Lassi in northern Kefalonia, is dedicated to the Italian soldiers who perished during these events and serves as a reminder of the island’s suffering during World War II. The memorial includes inscriptions with the names of the fallen soldiers and a reference to the historical event.
The beach of Myrtos is, undoubtedly, one of the main poles of attraction in Kefalonia. It is located 29 km north of Argostoli, in a beautiful area around huge verdant hills. Myrtos has gained a worldwide reputation and has been constantly included in travel magazines among the most beautiful and impressive beaches in the world. It has been awarded many times for its cleanness and natural beauty.
The natural beauty of Myrtos is the trademark of Kefalonia and one of the most photographed places in Greece.
The beach has a semi-circular shape surrounded by impressive white rocky cliffs with lush vegetation on top of them creating a spectacular setting. The lush green area, the abrupt terrain, the white pebbles and the crystal waters compose a stunning scenery. The beach is well-organized to its most extent, with umbrellas and sundecks while a small part remains completely unspoiled, ideal for total isolation.
The western coast of Myrtos offers spectacular sunset views. visitors have direct access to a wide range of facilities and a nice snack bar offering cold drinks. Myrtos is easily accessed by all means of transport. While descending the beach, you will enjoy some amazing views from above.
Petani is a magnificent Kefalonian beach located on the beautiful peninsula of Paliki, near Lixouri. It consists of blue crystal waters and a stunning landscape of huge verdant cliffs that reach the blue sea. The water deepens right away and there are usually big waves in Petani.
The beach is almost one kilometer long and mostly covered with sand, but some pebbles are scattered along the shore. The beach is partly organized with umbrellas and sundecks. There is also a shower and toilet facilities a few steps away.
Close to Petani visitors can find a couple of taverns and cafeterias. A parking space is available but can serve only a few cars.
While strolling through Argostoli, don’t miss Vallianou Square, the perfect place to enjoy a coffee, a refreshing beverage or a meal. Every evening the square becomes a meeting point for locals and tourists and also brimming with children playing in a completely safe environment as the square is entirely for pedestrians. The square was named after the Kefalonian and national benefactor, Panagis Vallianos, whose statue you will see on the square.
Throughout the summer, a variety of cultural activities, dance events and music concerts liven up the square in the evenings. Important part of the Kefalonian music culture are the Kefalonian kantades, traditional songs played with guitar and mandolin, an event you will definitely experience regularly every summer.
Walking along the shops on the main shopping street of Argostoli, Lithostroto, you will reach Kampana square. It is obvious that the name of the square comes from the bell tower with the clock that adorns this square.
Today it is a nice atmospheric square with cafes and shops, but back in 1797 this historic and first square of the city was the main stage of one of the important historical events in the turbulent history of the island. Here the French troops that entered Kefalonia, burned the Libro d’Oro (the “Golden Book” was the official list of nobles in the Republic of Venice to which the Ionian Islands belonged until then).
As a result of French Revolution, in 1797 the Venetian rule in the Ionian Islands ended, when they were occupied by the democratic French forces. In general, this change was welcomed with great joy, because it caused the end of the privileges of the aristocracy and the advent of equality for all citizens.
Robola is a traditional white grape variety native to Kefalonia, Greece, with a winemaking legacy spanning centuries. Renowned for its vibrant acidity and refreshing profile, Robola wines exhibit aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers, and herbs, complemented by subtle notes of honey or almond depending on the region and winemaking techniques.
Thriving in Kefalonia’s limestone-rich soils and warm climate, Robola reflects the island’s unique terroir. It pairs beautifully with seafood, fish, and fresh cheeses, making it a versatile and elegant choice for wine lovers.
In recent years, Robola has earned international acclaim, with awards highlighting its role in showcasing Greece’s rich winemaking tradition.
“Orealios Gaea” is a Greek wine producer based in Kefalonia, specializing in high-quality wines that blend tradition with modern techniques. Using native grape varieties like Robola, the company creates wines that reflect the island’s distinctive character and terroir.
The vineyards, located in limestone-rich areas ideal for grape cultivation, produce wines celebrated both in Greece and internationally. Orealios Gaea has consistently received accolades for its outstanding craftsmanship, cementing its reputation as a leader in Greek winemaking.
Drogarati Cave is a natural marvel that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Kefalonia. As you descend the steps, you’ll enter an underground world of breathtaking beauty. Over 150 million years old, the cave was discovered after a massive earthquake revealed its entrance.
Inside, stalactites hang like delicate drapes from the ceiling, while glass-like stalagmites rise from the ground, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly setting.
The cave’s massive hall, known as the “Sala of Apotheosis,” is famed for its remarkable acoustics and has occasionally hosted concerts. According to legend, when Maria Callas toured the cave, she was so impressed by its acoustics that she performed the first concert ever held there.
With its naturally cool temperatures, visiting the cave provides a refreshing escape during the hot summer months, though visitors should also be prepared for the chill during winter.
Drogarati Cave is a true natural wonder, offering an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
Just a few kilometers from Argostoli, you can find one of the most famous trademarks of Kefalonia, the lighthouse of Saint Theodore. Situated on a man-made cape, Saint Theodore’s Lighthouse is the ultimate spot for romantic moments and breathtaking photographs.
It’s a white, 8 meter tall lighthouse inspired by the Doric architectural style, which was originally built during the time Charles Napier was governor of Kefalonia. Completely destroyed by the earthquake, it was reconstructed by the architect Takis Pavlatos in 1964 maintaining its original architectural character.
Also known as “Fanari” (the greek word for lantern), Saint Theodore’s Lighthouse is the perfect spot for watching the sunset, taking romantic pictures or just enjoying the view of Lixouri. It’s definitely worth a visit.
Fiscardo Village is located 49.5 km north of Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia. Lapped in hills carpeted with cypresses and olive trees, this quaint fishing village is so beautiful that it was added to Project Natura 2000 for its protection. It boasts its own port but also a marina that is considered a boaters’ paradise and is densely packed with yachts in the summertime.
Harbourside, plentiful taverns, bars, and shops are waiting to welcome the visitors.
Despite being a relatively cosmopolitan destination nowadays, Fiskardo possesses a couple of sites for the history buffs, such as the Venetian Lighthouse and the Roman Cemetery.
Nikos Kavvadias, one of the greatest Greek writers, lived here.
Prehistoric graves testify that the village has been inhabited for the last 40.000 years.
Previously named Panormos, it was a well-known port during the Roman period.
Even though the great earthquakes of 1953 caused extensive destruction to the Ionian islands, Fiskardo somehow managed to stay untouched, resulting in picturesque traditional Ionian architecture adorning the alleys until this day.
Fteri Beach is nestled just behind the quaint fishing village of Aghia Kyriaki, on the western side of Kefalonia Island in the Palliki peninsula. It stands out as one of Kefalonia’s most pristine and untouched destinations, cherished by those who seek solitude and natural beauty yet accessible to only a fortunate few.
This hidden gem offers a harmonious blend of activities such as hiking, swimming, and sunbathing, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and tranquility. The beach is framed by dramatic white cliffs, stunning limestone formations, and lush greenery, creating a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
To reach Fteri Beach, you have a few options: take a sea taxi or rent a speedboat from Aghia Kyriaki Port, or embark on a scenic hiking trail that takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
