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Where to Stay in Kefalonia

Greece › Kefalonia Best Places To Stay
By Santorini Dave

Hotel pool surrounded by lush tropical greenery

The adults-only F Zeen Kefalonia Hotel has a lush, tropical vibe and is located only a 5-minute walk from beautiful Lourdata Beach.

See Also
• Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Kefalonia, Greece’s sixth largest island (situated 10 km west of mainland Greece), is one of the cleanest and most beautiful in the Ionian Islands. Mountainous and verdant with olive and pine trees, Kefalonia has sunny and hot summers and a stunning collection of beaches that includes the island’s most famous, Myrtos Beach.

Overhead view of of a long sandy beach set next to a pine-covered mountain

Myrtos Beach

Kefalonia’s two main ferry ports are Sami on the east coast, and Poros on the southeast coast. Pessada, Fiskardo, and Lixouri have much smaller ports; while Argostoli’s port, the island’s capital, is for cruise ships.

Kefalonia’s coolest town is Fiskardo, tucked away on the far northern tip of the island, which boasts a fashionable and picturesque harbor.

Drone shot of a small port on a Greek Island serving mostly small yachts and ferries

Fiskardo Port

Kefalonia is also famous for being the setting of the Louis de Bernières book, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. The 2001 film adaptation starring Nicolas Cage and Penelope Cruz was also shot on the island, primarily in the villages of Sami and Fiskardo, and at Chorgota Beach in the north and Antisamos Beach near Sami.

Accommodations on the island vary, ranging from plush five-stars in the resort areas to family-friendly villas throughout its lush countryside.

The Best Places to Stay on Kefalonia

People lounge on a sandy beach, with a white hotel perched above.

The luxurious White Rocks Hotel sits above popular Platis Gialos Beach, shown here, and also has its own private beach for guests to enjoy.

Best Places on Kefalonia for…

  • Where to Stay on Kefalonia for First-Timers: Argostoli
    The capital of Kefalonia, Argostoli has a lively and vibrant atmosphere, and elegant architecture. There is an abundance of restaurants, cafes, shops, and museums here, such as the Korgialenio History and Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum. Argostoli is your best bet for nightlife on the island, as well, with a wide range of options randing from quiet cocktail and wine bars to live music bars, DJs, and dancing.

    In the heart of the town, Vallianos Square is dotted with palm trees and encircled by cafes that really come alive in the evening. It is situated at one end of the pedestrian-only Lithostroto (means ‘cobble’) Street that features several blocks of shops of all sorts. Close to the town square is Kefalos Theatre, a performing arts center and is one of the oldest theatres in Greece. Argostoli also boasts the world’s longest stone sea bridge; De Bosset Bridge is 700 meters long and a fantastic spot for a scenic stroll.

    Argostoli makes a great home base for first-timers to explore the rest of the island. Some of the best beaches are in Lassi, just a 5-minute taxi ride from here. All of the island’s bus routes originate in Argostoli, serving various destinations from coast to coast.

    • Long stone bridge over the sea.

    The historic De Bosset Bridge is a great spot for a stroll or cycle offering wonderful views of Argostoli.

  • Where to Stay on Kefalonia for Water Activities: Makris Gialos Beach (Lassi)
    Makris Gialos Beach offers a wide variety of water sports that include extreme fly fishing, water skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, jet ski rental, sofa/banana/tube rides, canoes, pedal boats, and stand-up paddle boards. Rentals and lessons are available from early May to end of October.
  • Where to Stay on Kefalonia for Couples or Honeymooners: Fiskardo
    An hour’s drive from the capital of Argostoli and nestled in a cozy bay lies the village of Fiskardo (also spelled Fiscardo), boasting romantic seaside tavernas and secluded beaches with calm and turqoise waters. Staying near the town’s promenade make romantic strolls along the harborfront effortless, we especially recommend FiscardoStudios (Fiskardo). Quiet and quaint accommodations can be found at the adults-only Faros Suites. Luxurious Emelisse Nature Resort offers sea swimming and dreamy views of Ithaca from their infinity pool.
    • Boats moored along a harbor promenade lined with restaurants.

    Fiskardo is one of the most picturesque harbors in the Ionian Islands, where fishing boats and luxury yachts moor side-by-side.

  • Where to Stay on Kefalonia for Families: Skala and Lassi
    Skala and Lassi are the best towns for families. Skala is on the south coast, Lassi on the west with great sunsets and easier proximity to the airport and the capital, Argostoli.

    Skala is more lively than Lassi, but with its super long and sandy beach, it’s not difficult to find areas that are quiet and less crowded. Lassi has two scenic beaches set side by side in a wide bay – Makris Gialos Beach and Platis Gialos Beach – each with clean golden sand, pine trees, and shallow waters. Makris Gialos Beach is the best beach for watersports of every variety.

  • Where to Stay on Kefalonia without a Car: Argostoli
    Argostoli is an excellent home base, featuring all the amenities of a lively town: restaurants, shopping, musuems, and nightlife. Argostoli is also the hub for bus service to most other areas of the island. There are no beaches right in Argostoli, but the scenic beaches in Lassi are a quick trip away: Gradakia Beach is 1 km from Argostoli, and Makris Gialos Beach is 2 km.
Pedestrians walk along a palm-lined seafront promenade with wavy pebble mosaic design.

Numerous tavernas dot Argostoli’s seaside promenade, with even more just one block inland at the pedestrian-only Vallianos Square – home to public markets, events, and a carnival. For shopping, head south along Lithostroto Street.

The 6 Best Towns in Kefalonia for Tourists

1. Argostoli

Diners eat under umbrellas, alongside the seafront.
The capital and the largest town on Kefalonia, Argostoli is surrounded by small hills and has a lively atmosphere with many historical and cultural landmarks like the Korgialenio History and Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum.

With its central mid-island location, Argostoli also serves as a great base for island exploration, and is close to some of the island’s best beaches. Koutavos Lagoon, near De Bosset Bridge (the world’s longest stone sea bridge), rents colorful pedalos – great fun for all ages especially children, with the added bonus of the chance to spot some loggerhead turtles.

2. Fiskardo

Cobbled central square in the Greek town of Fiskardo.
Fiskardo’s harborfront has a pretty, postcard-like setting, lined with restaurants and cafes where you can almost touch the luxury yachts and fishing boats moored alongside the tables. Several peaceful and serene beaches are close to the village and are easy to access. In the bay opposite the promenade, small ferries arrive and depart – most are from nearby Ithaca.

3. Lassi

Rocky cove covered in pine trees and sheltering a golden sandy beach
Lassi is a family-friendly resort area (the oldest resort area on the island) with beautiful Blue Flag beaches that have calm, clear, and shallow waters, such as the wonderful Platis Gialos Beach and its neighboring beach, Makris Gialos. Lassi has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere along with numerous tavernas, mellow cocktail bars, and convenient mini markets. From Lassi, it’s a short 5-10 minute drive to the more cosmopolitan capital of Argostoli.

4. Lourdata

A man walks along a long, clean, and sandy beach
Quiet and idyllic, Lourdata is set on a forested mountainside at the base of Mount Ainos, and boasts one of the most spectacular beaches that stretches to 1.5 km. Some water sports are available at the beach, and any of the traditional tavernas that overlook the beach make a great spot to sunbathe or to relax. There are also a handful of Greek/Mediterranean restaurants uphill from the beach, as well as shops and eateries in the upper hills of Vlachata, just a 5-minute drive away. The airport is a 30-minute drive away.

5. Sami

Two people dine at a cafe table under a pine tree on a sandy beach
A traditional Greek village with seaside tavernas dotted along its quay, Sami is home to the island’s main ferry port. Sami is home to a great archaeological collection and is close to many of Kefalonia’s coolest attractions, like Melissani Lake, an underground turqoise-colored cave and cenote that is illuminated from above through a large hole in the rock – much like those found around Tulum in Mexico. Other nearby attractions include Drogarati Cave, the Nautical Museum of Sami, and the picturesque Antisamos Beach is just a 10-minute drive away. Sami is 18 km to Myrtos Beach.

6. Skala

Rows of sun beds with thatched umbrellas on a golden sandy beach
On Kefalonia’s southeastern tip and located 38 km south of the port at Sami, Skala features a long flat seafront. While boasting the longest beach on the island (stretching almost 3 kms), Skala has a small town vibe with a variety of accommodations, seaside restaurants, and a few shops along the sand. There’s plenty of room for all sorts of sun loungers, water sports activities, and quiet areas to lay down your beach towel. At one end of the beach is the Skala’s main street that’s sprinkled with pine trees and palms, numerous eateries, ice cream shops, mini markets, and cocktail bars. Skala is 35 km east of the airport.

Palm tree-flanked entrance of a beach bar landscaped with tropical plants.

We love the chill vibe and great cocktails at Ammos Beach Bar in Skala.

12 Best Hotels in Kefalonia

1. Emelisse Nature Resort – Fiskardo

View across a hotel infinity edge pool to the blue sea on a sunny day.
Posh and peaceful seafront resort boasts a swanky infinity pool and restaurant/bar with dreamy views of Ithaca and Lefkada, located in the picturesque village of Fiskardo on the northern tip of the island. Accommodations range from standard doubles to suites; family rooms and two-level maisonettes with shared pool that sleeps 6. New to the resort are 3 or 4 bedroom villas that can sleep 8. Rooms and suites are in color-washed houses in shades of country-yellow, spread across lush green gardens and immaculate grounds. Additional amenities: Emelis Spa, indoor restaurant, an adult-only pool, state-of-the-art gym, tennis court, squash court, sea-swimming rock platform, shuttles to the harborfront, games room with pool table and ping pong. Exceptional all-round service. 300 m walk to beautiful Emplisi Beach.

2. Thalassa Boutique Hotel (adults-only) – Lassi

Private swimming pool with floating sun beds, shared by two suites at a modern hotel
Overlooking magnificent Lassi Bay, this sophisticated and chic hotel boasts luxurious furnishings in a quiet atmosphere and is an adults-only property. Thalassa enjoys wonderful hilltop views, with ample green, palm-tree studded gardens built around a relaxing pool. Nine room types are available, from 25 sqm standard side-sea view rooms to the romantic 32 sqm ‘White Suite’ with panoramic views that’s popular with honeymooners. All are tastefully decorated and feature large and comfortable beds. Very close to the airport, Argostoli, and some great beaches; one of the best locations on the island.

3. Ionian Emerald Resort – Sami

Blue free-form swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs and backed by a modern hotel
Enjoying unparalleled views over the Ionian Sea toward the island of Ithaca, the relaxed Ionian Emerald offers minimalistic rooms, suites, and split-level maisonettes. Opt for the newer private pool suites that overlook the pool area. Restaurant and hotel bar have wonderful sea views. The swimming pool area is nice with luxe sun loungers and canopied double sunbeds, plus a pool bar. Easy and pleasant walk along the seawall path into the charming port town of Sami for a variety of seaside tavernas that overlook the harbor. Close to the picturesque fishing village of Agia Evfymia, and only a 5-minute drive to Melissani Cave.

4. White Rocks Hotel – Lassi

Stone walkway in a fancy Greek hotel, leading to the beach.
Classy and luxurious hotel boasts stunning sea views while nestled amongst tall pine trees, on a hillside above the azure waters of Platis Gialos Beach. Guest rooms range from standard guest rooms in the main building to villa-type bungalows nestled amongst lush gardens and the hotel’s own private beach. Swimming pool and panaromic lounge terrace have phenomenal views and plenty of seating options including plush sun beds. Newly built infinity pool suites are adults-only. Fine dining at their a-la-carte restaurant, a premium buffet restaurant, or the beach bar serves snacks overlooking White Rocks own private beach. Special amenities include yoga classes, cooking lessons, in-room massage, and a reservable fitness room.

5. Kefalonia Grand – Argostoli

Small, white, and modern hotel on a palm tree-lined street
Great central location and prime position on Argostoli’s busy waterfront, this hotel is stylish with rooms that are compact and comfortable outfitted in soothing neutral colors and cream-colored walls; many with sea views from the two-seater furnished balconies. The lobby is airy and welcoming, and boasts a fabulous onsite restaurant/bar with a delightful terrace and harbor views. Buffet breakfast with a-la-Carte options is served in the sunny indoor/outdoor streetside restaurant.

6. The Alley Boutique Hotel – Argostoli

View down a cobbled lane of a modern hotel with lush greenery in front
The elegant and pretty Alley Hotel is just off the main Argostoli waterfront, ideally placed for the island capital’s best restaurants, seaside cafes, and nightlife, and only a 15-minute drive to the beach. The 29 rooms come in 4 sizes: standard or deluxe doubles, plus 2-bedroom suites and a deluxe loft suite. All feature soothing pastel décor, marble bathrooms, writing desks, and Nespresso coffee machines. The huge top floor loft suite has a large balcony with stunning harbor views. Lush garden patio and bar, onsite spa, and small gym.

7. Electra Kefalonia Hotel – Svoronata

View over private swimming pools and an expansive green lawn to the sea.
New and modern hotel facing the sea and very close to the Kefalonia airport, boasts a heated infinity pool and expansive views of the Ionian Sea, located in the sleepy village of Svoronata that’s dotted with summer homes amongst acres of olive trees. All rooms and suites have marble-tiled bathrooms, and private furnished balconies with sea views; executive suites boast private pools, and two-storey suites can sleep 5. Restaurant and pool bar serves Mediterranean cuisine. Indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, steam room, small gym, and spa treatments available. Within a 5-minute walk of the hotel there are two tavernas, a pool bar café, and Blue Flag Ammes Beach.

8. FiscardoStudios – Fiskardo

Hotel balcony with table and chairs, overlooking a Greek harbor
Six individual pastel-colored studios located in picturesque Fiskardo offer seaside restaurants and delightful cafes right at your doorstep. Each tiled studio is well-equipped with a kitchenette and balcony, some with harbor views. Steps to souvenir and gift stores, ice cream shops, and charming boutiques that dot the seaside promenade. Located 56 km from Kefalonia’s airport, its a scenic drive as the highway weaves along the steep mountainsides providing breath-taking views of the Ionian Sea.

9. F Zeen Kefalonia (adults-only) – Lourdata

Hotel swimming pool surrrounded by sun loungers and overlooking the sea
Occupying a hillside location on one of Kefalonia’s most popular beach destinations, the gated, adults-only F Zeen hotel is serene and tropical with thick lush gardens throughout the entire property. The resort has spacious and artfully-decorated accommodations, ranging from classic rooms to three-bedroom villas; superior suites with pools, and a terraced penthouse. The hotel has three pools and two bar-restaurants. Wellness and fitness is their focus featuring exercise classes, yoga/gym covered-decks, and their natural healing spa. Guided snorkeling, SUP yoga, mountain hikes, and cooking classes are available for hire. Guest services include laundry, room service, and pillow menu. Lourdata Beach with its white sand and turquoise waters is a 5-minute stroll away. Perfect for couples or solo travellers. 13 km from the airport.

10. Leivatho Hotel – Svoronata

hotel patio covered by a sun shade, with adjacent swimming pool
Modest family-friendly accommodations set in a quiet rural area of the Svoronata distict. It’s a 5-minute walk to Avithos Beach (you may want to bring water shoes) with a beach taverna. Guest rooms are clean with fully equipped kitchens and either garden or sea views; some are spacious and have large airy windows and stone walls. Swimming pool and gardens are at the front of hotel and offer sea views. Breakfast provided.

11. Mediterranee – Lassi

Hotel pool deck with palm trees on a cloudy day
Clean and basic guest rooms in an older-style building with a large swimming pool and steps to the beach. Opt for upper floor rooms that face Lassi Bay for great sea views. Rooms at the front of hotel have garden/street view. Breakfast and dinner are served in the large main restaurant. Easy uphill walk to charming streetside tavernas that dot the main road in the village of Lassi. 10-minute drive to the island’s capital Argostoli.

12. Tesoro Blu (adults-only) – Skala

View overlooking a hotel pool deck and the blue sea
This adults-only hotel on Kefalonia’s southeast coast epitomizes simplicity and minimalism in an ultra-modern design. Its 89 rooms plus distinguished luxury suites all have oversized beds and offer garden, mountain, or sea views. Luxury suites offer an enhanced experience with pools, huge jacuzzi baths, and generous sitting areas. There’s a welcoming spa, pool bar, and 2 restaurants onsite. Their fabulous outdoor infinity pool blends seamlessly into the sea and has views of Skala Beach. Walkable to several beachside tavernas. 35 km from Kefalonia airport on the west coast.

Summary: My Favorite Hotels in Kefalonia

My Favorite Kefalonia Hotels

• Luxury: Emelisse Nature Resort
• Boutique: Thalassa (adults-only)
• Families: Ionian Emerald Resort
• Beach: White Rocks
• Argostoli: Kefalonia Grand
• Sami: Ionian Emerald
• Fiskardo: FiscardoStudios
• Skala: Tesoro Blu (adults-only)
• Budget: Aenos

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About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave I’m Santorini Dave. I started this site in 2011 with a quick guide on visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my small team and I provide guides to Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and all of Greece - as well as favorite places to stay in some of my favorite cities - like London, Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and Florence. Email me at dave@santorinidave.com.