Where To Stay In Kefalonia: The Best Areas And Hotels!

Last Updated: April 28 2024

Kefalonia is undeniably one of the most beautiful Greek islands, with its pristine beaches, picturesque villages, and charming caves. It’s also one of the largest islands in Greece so there’s plenty to do! Not to mention, it’s far less touristy than other Greek islands.

You’ll find some amazing places to stay in Kefalonia, so deciding where to base yourself can be a challenge. There are plenty of charming villages found throughout the island, many of which offer an authentic atmosphere.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia, we’ve got you covered. This guide will take you through the island’s best areas and hotels, so you know exactly what’s on offer!

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Where To Stay In Kefalonia

The great thing about Kefalonia is that there are plenty of fantastic towns and villages where you can base yourself. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, take in the local culture, or try some traditional Greek cuisine, there’s something for everyone!

This guide is going to cover the best places to stay in Kefalonia in-depth. However, here’s a quick overview for those who are short of time:

	Best For	Top Hotel Pick
Skala	First-time visitors to Kefalonia	Skala Hotel
Assos	Couples after a romantic getaway	Linardos Apartments
Sami	Those looking to go sightseeing	Sami Beach Hotel
Argostoli	Local life and culture	Tourist Boutique Hotel
Fiskardo	Beach getaways	Emelisse Nature Resort
Lixouri	An authentic visit	Alkestis Studios
Agia Efimia	Budget travellers	Waterside Apartments

1. Skala – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For First-Timers

Skala is one of the best areas to stay in Kefalonia, especially for those who have never visited before. As one of the island’s main tourist spots, you’ll find various amenities here including accommodation options, traditional tavernas, and shops, as well as a watersports centre.

Skala is located in Southern Kefalonia, around a 45-minute drive from Argostoli. It’s the largest resort in this part of the island so is very well-developed, and is where the majority of tourists will come for their beach holiday!

The highlight of staying in Skala is that there are some fantastic hotels along the beachfront. Whether you’re after something affordable or you’d prefer a luxurious getaway, this coastal town has something for everyone.

Things To Do In Skala

• Relax on Skala Beach
• Enjoy a range of watersports
• Explore the Roman Villa of Skala
• Head out on a wine tour – This popular wine tour includes hotel pick-up, transport, and snacks.
• Enjoy a cocktail at a beachfront bar
• Wander around Skala Old Town

The Best Places To Stay In Skala

Budget: Zephyros Hotel

Zephyros Hotel offers a variety of affordable rooms, some of which feature a private balcony and sea views. These rooms sleep 2-3 people but there’s also a three-bedroom apartment that sleeps six.

On-site facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, shared lounge, garden area, and bar. While here, you’ll also benefit from free WiFi and there’s free private parking for those who wish to hire a car.

Mid-range: Skala Hotel

Skala Hotel is a great option if you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia. This family-run property is just a short walk from the beach, and you’ll find various bars, tavernas, and shops nearby.

There are some beautiful suites on offer at this hotel too, where you can enjoy sea views from a private balcony. The property also has a comfortable lounge area and continental breakfast is served here every morning.

Luxury: Makis Hotel

Makis Hotel is one of the most charming accommodation options in Skala. The hotel is just steps away from Skala Beach and all the rooms are beautifully decorated, and sleep between 2-4 people.

This place is known for its excellent facilities too including an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, garden area, and bar. Bicycle and car hire are also available at the property and they offer airport transfers.

2. Assos – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For Couples

Assos is another excellent option if you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia. It’s one of the island’s most picturesque villages with its traditional coloured houses, charming pebbled beach, and crystal-clear waters, making it a great base for anyone.

Assos is home to approximately 100 people so offers a very calm atmosphere. Thanks to its stunning beach, quaint bars, authentic tavernas, and local craft shops, this village is the perfect place to relax, especially for couples who are looking to spend some quality time together.

The beautiful Myrtos Beach is also just a 20-minute drive away, making it a great option for beachgoers. Not to mention, there are some fantastic apartments found in Assos for those who are after more space than a hotel room.

Things To Do In Assos

• Relax on Assos Beach
• Visit the Venetian Castle of Assos
• Take a trip to Myrtos Beach
• Grab some food at 3 Wise Monkeys
• Snap a photograph of the village’s coloured houses
• Head to Assos Viewpoint

The Best Places To Stay In Assos

Budget: Pension Gerania

Pension Gerania offers excellent value for money and is just a short walk away from Assos Beach. Free private parking is available on-site and you’ll find various shops and tavernas nearby.

There are both garden and sea-view rooms available at this property and each one features a private bathroom. You can also enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, free WiFi, and room service.

Mid-range: Linardos Apartments

Linardos Apartments is one of the best places to stay in Assos. This place offers self-contained studio units which sleep between 2-5 people, making it the perfect option for both couples and small families/groups.

These studios offer a furnished balcony with panoramic sea views, a private bathroom, and free WiFi. They also feature air conditioning, a kitchenette with a fridge, and a TV. What else could you ask for?

Luxury: Kanakis Apartments

If you’re after something more luxurious, check out Kanakis Apartments. The suites here are beautiful, with charming decor, panoramic sea views, a furnished balcony, and free WiFi.

A traditional breakfast is served here daily and there’s a freshwater swimming pool, sun terrace, and bar. The beach is also just a short walk away and there’s free private parking.

3. Sami – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For Sightseeing

Sami is where we based ourselves during our trip to Kefalonia. Located in the middle of the island, this charming coastal town is an excellent base for exploring, especially as there are so many fantastic day trips on offer.

Nearby, you’ll find Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, and Antisamos Beach among other places of interest. Thanks to the large port found here, you can also head out to the island of Ithaca. However, Sami has so much more to offer!

Boasting a charming waterfront, Venetian buildings, and rich heritage, Sami is another fantastic option when choosing where to stay in Kefalonia for first-timers. Especially, as there are also plenty of amenities, including hotels, tavernas, and shops.

Things To Do In Sami

• Visit the Acropolis of Ancient Sami
• Relax on Antisamos Beach
• Head to Melissani Lake
• Explore Drogarati Cave
• Visit Karavomilos Lake
• Head to the Nautical Museum of Sami

The Best Places To Stay In Sami

Budget: Mary’s Studios & Apartment

If you’re after something budget-friendly, Mary’s Studios & Apartment is a fantastic option. It’s just a short walk from Sami’s waterfront and offers free WiFi and free private parking.

There are a variety of studios and apartments to choose from, sleeping between 2-5 people. These feature a kitchenette, private bathroom, and air conditioning. Some units even feature a private balcony!

Mid-range: Pavlatos Apartments & Studios

Pavlatos Apartments & Studios has been recently renovated and offers spacious studios, typically sleeping 2 people. This makes them an excellent option for couples, and you’ll have free WiFi and private parking.

Some of these studios offer a private balcony and sea views. They also feature a fully-equipped kitchen, bathroom, seating area, and flat-screen TV, so you’ll have everything you need.

Luxury: Sami Beach Hotel

Sami Beach Hotel is one of the best hotels in this coastal town as it offers striking sea views. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool, poolside bar, hot tub, library, and spacious lounge area among other facilities!

Continental breakfast is served daily at this hotel and you’ll have free use of the beach sunbeds and umbrellas. There’s also a play area for children, as well as an internet corner, tennis court, and table tennis.

4. Argostoli – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For Culture

Argostoli is the largest town on the island and is the capital of Kefalonia. With a charming harbour, lively central square, and plenty of tourist amenities, it’s another excellent option for first-time visitors. Not to mention, Kefalonia’s largest port is found here.

Thanks to the town’s bus station, Argostoli is the perfect place to stay for those who don’t wish to hire a car. From here, you can take public transport to Fiskardo, Sami, Agia Efimia, and Melissani, among other locations.

Argostoli is also full of cultural and historical landmarks so is a great option for those who wish to learn more about the island, rather than just catch a tan on the beach. Not to mention, the surrounding waters are home to plenty of marine life including loggerhead turtles.

Things To Do In Argostoli

• Look out for turtles in the harbour
• Visit Saint Theodore Lighthouse
• Head out on a traditional boat cruise – This full-day tour includes lunch, local wine, and snorkelling equipment.
• Relax on Makris Gialos Beach
• Take a trip to the Castle of Agios Georgios
• Go on a tour of the island – This half-tour tour includes a visit to Drogarati Cave, Melissani Cave, and Myrtos Beach.

The Best Places To Stay In Argostoli

Budget: Vivian Villa

Vivian Villa is one of the most affordable accommodation options in Argostoli. Here, you can choose from a variety of private rooms, sleeping between 2-4 people making it a great option for couples and families alike.

Many of the rooms offer garden and courtyard views, with some even featuring a patio/terrace area or balcony. You’ll also have a private bathroom, air conditioning, free WiFi, a wardrobe, and a flat-screen TV.

Mid-range: Tourist Boutique Hotel

Tourist Boutique Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Argostoli. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the central square and offers striking sea views, as well as an on-site restaurant serving authentic Greek dishes.

Many of the rooms here offer a private balcony and sea views, and you’ll have an excellent buffet breakfast included with your stay. This hotel also offers a TV lounge, 24-hour room service, and free WiFi.

Luxury: Kefalonia Grand

This luxurious hotel is located right on the waterfront and is known for its excellent facilities. Kefalonia Grand is also a great option for couples, as they can organise a romantic candlelit dinner by the sea for you!

There are some gorgeous suites on offer here, with the master suite being a fantastic option. This suite sleeps up to 4 people and offers a private balcony with sea views and a jacuzzi. What more could you ask for?

5. Fiskardo – Best Place To Stay in Kefalonia For Beachgoers

If you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia for beaches, we’d suggest checking out Fiskardo. This charming fishing village is located in the North, with Paralia Emplisi, Fiskardo Beach, and Foki Beach all being found nearby. This makes it an excellent choice for beachgoers, although there’s much more on offer.

Fiskardo is often referred to as the ‘St Tropez of Kefalonia’, with its quaint harbour, upscale sea-view restaurants, and Venetian-style buildings. The beauty of this village will take your breath away and it offers a fantastic atmosphere, for those looking to embrace the island’s more glamorous side.

You’ll also find historical attractions in Fiskardo and plenty of tourist amenities, including hotels and shops. Honestly, this gorgeous place has something for everyone!

Things To Do In Fiskardo

• Relax on Paralia Emplisi
• Dine at one of Fiskardo’s sea-view restaurants
• Head out on a boat trip
• Hire a kayak to explore the coastline
• Visit some of the nearby beaches (Foki Beach, Kimilia Beach, and Paralia Dafnoudi)
• Check out the village’s artsy boutiques and gift shops

The Best Places To Stay In Fiskardo

Budget: FiscardoStudios

FiscardoStudios is set right by the harbour and is just a short walk from Fiscardo Beach. The studios here have everything you need including a private kitchenette, free WiFi, and a balcony/terrace area (some with sea views).

The highlight of staying at this property has to be the facilities. There’s an on-site shop, a charming restaurant serving traditional dishes (including fresh seafood), and a bar which offers sea views.

Mid-range: Stella Hotel Apartments

Stella Hotel Apartments offers a variety of self-contained units, sleeping between 2-6 people. These studios offer stunning sea views, a private balcony, a private bathroom, and air conditioning.

There’s a communal lounge for guests to relax in and an on-site bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink. The hotel is also just a short walk from the village, so there are plenty of dining options nearby.

Luxury: Emelisse Nature Resort

Emelisse Nature Resort is one of the best resorts in Kefalonia and is a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, especially as the rooms are beautifully decorated and offer sea views.

This resort boasts excellent facilities too, including a sea-facing terrace, outdoor pool, lounge bar, and restaurant. There’s also a spa and wellness centre on-site and you’ll have a homemade breakfast buffet included.

6. Lixouri – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For An Authentic Vibe

Although Lixouri is the second-largest town in Kefalonia, it offers more of a laid-back vibe than other towns and villages on the island. It’s also a great place to appreciate culture and everyday life, as the main square becomes lively at night with locals.

This village makes a great base, as there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars located near the waterfront. There are places to visit in the surrounding area as well, including numerous beaches. Not to mention, there are some fantastic hotels to choose from!

Lixiouri has an interesting history too, as it was built where the ancient city of Pali used to be located, which was unfortunately destroyed in 1953 due to an earthquake.

Things To Do In Lixouri

• Enjoy the local nightlife
• Try authentic Greek cuisine
• Relax on Xi Beach
• Visit other nearby beaches (Koutala Beach, Paralia Lepeda, and Paralia Megas Lakkos)
• Catch the ferry to Argostoli
• Take a trip to The Monastery of Kipoureon

The Best Places To Stay In Lixouri

Budget: Belleza Villa

Belleza Villa is just a short walk from Ethnikis Antistaseos Square and Lixouri Port so is in a great location. There are also plenty of minimarts, tavernas, and a bar nearby, so you won’t be short of amenities.

The apartments here sleep between 2-6 people and feature a well-equipped kitchen, living room, air conditioning, and free WiFi. The staff can also assist with bicycle and car rentals.

Mid-range: Alkestis Studios

Alkestis Studios is a beautiful property, set in a central but quiet location in Lixouri. If you stay here, you can enjoy free parking and free WiFi, and you’ll be in a great place to explore the village.

There are various rooms to choose from, sleeping 2-4 people. These studios offer a private kitchenette, bathroom, and air conditioning. Some of these also offer a private balcony and sea views!

Luxury: Ionian Village

If you’re after something more luxurious, check out Ionian Village. Boasting an outdoor pool, sun terrace, BBQ facilities, and yoga classes on-site, this property has so much to offer.

The villas here are decorated beautifully and sleep between 2-8 people. Some even offer a private pool, where you can appreciate epic sea views as you relax. Bicycle and car rental services are also available here.

7. Agia Efimia – Best Place To Stay In Kefalonia For Budget Travellers

Finally, we have Agia Efimia, a charming fishing village located just a short drive from Sami. With a handful of secluded beaches, waterfront tavernas, and some great ice cream shops, this village offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those who just want to kick back.

Thanks to Agia Efimia’s location, it’s a popular spot for sailing experiences and boat trips. You’ll also find a great diving school in this village. There’s not much else to do here, but that’s all part of the area’s charm.

Not only that, but Agia Efimia is an excellent option for those on a budget, as there are some fantastic low-cost properties to choose from! Of course, there are some more luxurious options too.

Things To Do In Agia Efimia

• Enjoy local cuisine in a sea-view restaurant
• Hire a boat to explore
• Visit nearby beaches
• Go scuba diving
• Take a boat tour to Ithaca
• Take a day trip to Sami

The Best Places To Stay In Agia Efimia

Budget: Boulevard Aetos Suites

Boulevard Aetos Suites is just a short walk from the beach and offers various studios and apartments, some of which offer panoramic sea views. These sleep between 2-4 people and feature lots of amenities.

The apartments here offer a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, seating area, and free WiFi. The Penthouse Apartment is a big hit, as it features a spacious terrace area with breathtaking views.

Mid-range: Waterside Apartments

Waterside Apartments is set right on the waterfront and offers direct access to the sea. Not only will you be treated to fantastic views of Agia Efimia harbour but there are some beautiful studios to choose from.

This property also offers a charming terrace area with a BBQ, shaded seating areas, and colourful flowers. You can enjoy free private parking too and there’s free WiFi.

Luxury: Kefalonia Bay Palace

Kefalonia Bay Palace is one of the area’s best hotels. Not only does it offer jaw-dropping sea views, but this hotel boasts charming suites, some of which feature a private pool and balcony.

There are some excellent facilities too, including an outdoor pool, pool bar, restaurant, and sunbathing area. You’ll also find a variety of bars, shops, and tavernas nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions About Where To Stay In Kefalonia

What is the best part of Kefalonia to stay in?

If you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia, there are plenty of options. Skala is one of the most popular tourist destinations on this beautiful Greek island and is a great choice for first-time visitors.

For those after somewhere quieter and more authentic, there are the fishing villages of Assos and Lixouri. Argostoili is another great choice for those who want to take in the local culture.

Is North or South Kefalonia better?

Both the North and South of Kefalonia have something to offer. The North offers a more idyllic and authentic getaway, while the Southern part of the island is more touristy, and is where you’ll find the major towns.

However, no matter where you stay you’ll have easy access to the island’s main attractions. This is especially the case if you decide to hire a car, which will give you more flexibility when it comes to choosing a base.

Which side of Kefalonia has the best beaches?

Kefalonia is full of beautiful beaches and these are found all throughout the island. Both the North and South of the island boast pristine shores, as well as the East and West shores.

Myrtos Beach is one of the most popular spots and is around a 20-minute drive from Assos. There’s also Antisamos Beach, Skala Beach, and Makris Gialos Beach among others!

What is the most picturesque town in Kefalonia?

There are endless picturesque villages on the island, but it’s Assos that stole our hearts. Boasting pastel-coloured houses, turquoise waters, and a beautiful beach, it’s a must-visit.

Assos is a fantastic option if you’re wondering where to stay in Kefalonia, but there’s also the charming villages of Fiskardo, Lixouri, and Agia Efimia. Honestly, there are so many gorgeous places to choose from!

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kefalonia

Choosing the best place to stay in Kefalonia, Greece can be overwhelming as it will be different for everyone.

Those who want to stay in a central location will likely find Argostoli to be the best option, whereas couples may find the laid-back vibe and charm of Assos more appealing. Either way, there are some fantastic areas in Kefalonia so you’ll have no issues finding the perfect base.

If you have further questions about where to stay in Kefalonia then don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below!

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