Just thinking about Kefalonia makes me want to be back there right now! Lying on the white sand beaches, diving into the crystal clear waters and eating some of the best food of my life.
What I love about Kefalonia the most is that it’s slightly off-the-beaten-track. Compared to the bustling island of Corfu, you’ll find Kefalonia is more suited to the nature-lovers. Those who like slow mornings and then popping on their hiking boots to set off into the forest in the afternoon.
On Kefalonia, you will find interesting historic attractions, gorgeous scenery, and charming traditional villages. Deciding where to stay in Kefalonia is an important decision as each town has something different to offer.
That’s where I come in! To help you figure out where to stay in Kefalonia, I’ve compiled the best neighbourhoods to stay depending on your travel style and budget. You’ll not only find out a bit about the town but I’ve included the best places to stay and things to do in each.
Whether you want to eat your way through the best food in town, hike into the forest or relax on the beach – there is something for you!
So, let’s dive right in.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Kefalonia?
- Kefalonia Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Kefalonia
- Kefalonia’s Three Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Kefalonia
- What To Pack For Kefalonia
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kefalonia
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Kefalonia
- Buy Us a Coffee!
So you’re backpacking Greece and Kefalonia is on the hit list. I don’t blame you, this incredible island has so much to offer for all types of travellers. If you’re short on time I’ve done you a solid and short-listed my top recommendations for accommodation in Kefalonia.
Fiscardo Bay Hotel | Best Hotel in Kefalonia
Enjoy sipping on a cold cocktail whilst soaking in the incredible views of Fiscardo Bay. The rooms come with plenty of space and offer comfortable luxury furnishings and private balconies with Ionian sea views.
A delicious Greek breakfast is served each morning in the breakfast room or outside on the terrace. There is a large outdoor swimming pool with incredible views, providing the perfect place to chill out on the sun loungers and catch some rays. It’s no wonder this place is one of the best hotels in Kefalonia.
Apostolata Island Resort and Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Kefalonia
Add a little luxury to your life with this gorgeous hotel. The modern rooms are well-equipped and have huge private balconies where you can enjoy the sunset over a glass of wine, talk about romantic settings. You won’t be too far from central Skala, but the hotel itself is in a remote location.
Anio Residence | Best Airbnb in Kefalonia
Airbnb Plus properties are hand-selected for their gorgeous interior design and unbeatable locations. This property sits in rural Kefalonia, offering you peace and quiet away from the main tourist strips. It’s ideal if you’re travelling as a couple to the island, featuring peaceful interiors and comfortable furnishings. It’s also super close to the airport, and just a short drive from Argostoli. This is one of the best Airbnbs in Greece, let alone Kefalonia!
Skala
Skala is a town right on the southernmost tip of the island. This is the heart of the tourism industry on the island, and chances are you’ll spend at least a little time here before exploring the rest of Kefalonia.
Argostoli
Argostoli is the largest town on the island, but it isn’t as popular with tourists. Up in the north of the island, the weather is a bit more variable, but visit on a good day, and you’ll enjoy a truly rewarding experience.
Fiskardo
Taking up the northern tip of the island, Fiskardo is the most exclusive destination in Kefalonia. This is where the rich and famous of Greece drop off their yachts before exploring the rest of the island. Fiskardo is also home to some of the more secluded beaches on Kefalonia.
Kefalonia’s Three Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Although Kefalonia is one of the largest of the Islands, it’s still pretty easy to get around. The centre is hilly, so you’ll need to keep in mind that it’s easier to travel around the coast if you’re driving. If you aren’t, then public transport is pretty reliable during Greece’s peak tourist season.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Greece and looking for a beach holiday in Kefalonia, Skala is the place to be! It’s the hub of tourism on the island and full of places to explore. Skala is also close to some of Kefalonia’s best sandy beaches and provides a good base for exploring the rest of the island.
Argostoli is the capital of the island, making it a great place to soak up the local culture. Tourism is lower on this side of the island, so you’ll also find some fantastic deals on accommodation and attractions. This makes it a firm favourite for anyone travelling to Greece on a budget, regardless of the time of year.
If you’re travelling with family, Fiskardo is the best place to stay in Kefalonia. It’s a more upmarket area, as it’s known as a popular marina for yachts. Overall though, it’s a laid-back area and well-connected to the rest of the island.
Still undecided? To make things easier, I’ve included more information about each area below. Whether you’re travelling solo in Greece or with the whole fam, I’ve also included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you can plan your trip with ease.
1. Skala – Where to Stay in Kefalonia for Your First Time
Skala is a town situated on the southernmost tip of Kefalonia. This is the heart of the tourism industry on the island and is a great place to get yourself acquainted with the destination. It’s also where you’ll find most of the tour operators – perfect for those without a car.
One of the best aspects of Skala is its proximity to immaculate sandy beaches in the area. The beach in the town itself is easily the most popular on the island, but you can find some quieter options close by. Whilst most of Kefalonia features a rugged coastline, It’s home to some of the best beaches in Greece.
Apostolata Island Resort and Spa | Best Hotel in Skala
This gorgeous hotel is perfect for those willing to splurge on a little added luxury. Rooms are well equipped with modern furnishings, as well as huge balconies where you can enjoy the sunset over a glass of wine. You won’t be too far from central Skala, providing a quiet, romantic setting in one of the best hostels in Skala.
Classic Room | Best Apartment in Skala
This stunning Airbnb is within walking distance from the great beaches of Skala. Plus all of the rooms have a private balcony with Panoramic sea views.
The location is ideal you are based in Skala and it’s a short 20-minute walk into the beautiful village where there are loads of restaurants and cafes. This apartment also comes with a fully equipped kitchen which is perfect if you fancy cooking some meals at home whilst enjoying your romantic getaway with some of the best views on the island.
Stylish 2BR Home | Best Modern Home in Skala
This stylish, modern home is right in the heart of Skala! Enjoy a clean, spacious home away from home that can sleep up to five adults with two bedrooms and a fold-out sofa. The location is top tier, everything you need is within walking distance and you’ll find amazing restaurants, cocktail bars and cafes on your doorstep with Skala Beach just a stone’s throw away. This place also comes with a fully equipped kitchen with a supermarket nearby if you fancy cooking up a storm.
Things to See and Do in Skala:
- Skala Beach is the largest on the island – with crystal clear waters, perfect sands, and plenty of water sports on offer throughout the summer.
- Head to the outskirts of town to discover the remains of a historic Roman villa.
- Explore some of the other sandy beaches in the region – Loutraki is known for its warm waters and peaceful sunbathing spots.
- Head to the main square in the evenings to check out the tavernas, cocktail bars and local socialising zones for a typical Greek night out.
- Go on a day trip to explore Dragarati Cave and Melissani Lake and then head to Myrtos Beach to enjoy the sun and swim in the Ionian Sea.
- Learn the secrets of an organic winemaker on a Greek wine-tasting tour, with four different wines from the vineyard paired with a cheese plate and a stunning terrace view.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Argostoli – Best Place to Stay in Kefalonia on a Budget
Argostoli is the largest town on the island, but it isn’t as popular with tourists. The weather is a bit more variable in this part of the island, but the nearby beaches here are just as beautiful as those in Skala.
This is also where you will discover the local culture from family-run restaurants to hand-made olive oil from local olive groves. Argostoli’s status as one of the less popular tourist destinations also makes it ideal for anyone travelling on a budget. Here, you’ll find some of the cheapest hotels and bars on the island.
Tourist Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Argostoli
This three-star hotel has everything you could possibly want out of a short island holiday. Each room comes with its own balcony offering views over Argostoli Harbour. This is a perfect base for those early morning boat tours and day trips departing from the town. It’s no surprise this is one of the best hotels in Argostoli.
Anio Residence | Best Airbnb in Argostoli
This stunning Greek Airbnb property is amongst the more affordable apartments within the range. The airport is only a short drive away – perfect for those arriving late in the evenings. The interiors are bright and spacious, creating a truly relaxing space.
Veranda Apartment | Best Budget Apartment in Argostoli
Okay, budget backpackers you’re in for a treat. Not only is Veranda loft in the heart of Argostoli but it’s comes with a beautiful balcony overlooking the picturesque village with incredible mountain and Ionian sea views. Oh wait, it gets better. This apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen perfect for saving some euros and cooking at home. You’re a five-minute walk from the main pedestrian street of Argostoli with no shortage of local restaurants to choose from. And the cherry on top? This place is super affordable and can sleep up to four people, thank me later.
Things to See and Do in Argostoli:
- Korgialenia Historic and Cultural Museum has a few basic exhibits dedicated to the island’s tumultuous past.
- Enjoy a full-day trip on a traditional Greek boat on this cruise from Argostoli.
- Admire the Views from Saint Theodore Lighthouse
- Take a Stroll Along the Harbour
- Visit the Sinkholes of Argostoli
- The bars and cafés in Argostoli are a must-visit for mingling with locals.
- Embark on a mesmerising sunset boat trip from Argostoli. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Vardiani Island, savour local flavours with a traditional Greek buffet
3. Fiskardo – Best Neighbourhood in Kefalonia for Families to Stay In
Taking up the northern tip of the island, Fiskardo is the most exclusive destination in Kefalonia. This is where the rich and famous of Greece drop off their yachts before exploring the rest of the island and is well known as a fishing village. Fiskardo is also home to some of the more secluded beaches on Kefalonia.
The town itself actually has quite a Bohemian atmosphere despite the luxury visitors. This creates a unique vibe that is welcoming and intriguing. Families will love how calm the area is, with plenty to see and explore.
Fiscardo Bay Hotel | Best Hotel in Fiskardo
This gorgeous hotel provides a tranquil escape and stands out for its incredible views of Fiscardo Bay. The rooms come with plenty of space and offer comfortable luxury furnishings and private balconies with Ionian sea views.
One of the most popular aspects of this hotel is its delicious Greek breakfast served each morning in the breakfast room or outside on the terrace. There is a large outdoor swimming pool with incredible views, providing the perfect place to chill out on the sun loungers and catch some rays. It’s no wonder this place is one of the best hotels in Kefalonia.
Majestic Stone Villa | Best Airbnb in Fiskardo
This might be a new build, but it still takes all of its design cues from local tradition. The luxurious villa provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying the swimming pool area. Inside you will find spacious bedrooms, contemporary interior design and upscale bathrooms. Central Fiskardo is a five-minute walk away. With enough room for seven people, this is great for larger families.
Zavalata Beach Front Apartment | Best Beach Front Apartment in Fiskardo
Right in the heart of Fiskardo, you’re only a stone’s throw away from Zavalata Beach and can enjoy incredible views from your balcony. This stunning apartment is ideal for a group of four people with two bedrooms both with air conditioning. Each room leads to the balcony which is the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee and watch the yachts and fishing boats. There is a fully equipped kitchen if you want to cook at home or you have a choice of tasty local restaurants on your doorstep.
Things to See and Do in Fiskardo:
- Take a day trip to Foki Beach and Fiskardo Beach which are a bit more mellow than the beaches down in Skala.
- Explore the most beautiful sights of Kefalonia island on a full-day guided tour.
- Rent a Kayak or join a guided group and explore the coves and bays.
- Learn to dive in the warm safe Ionian sea. Qualified instructors and great dive sites provide unforgettable experiences
- Fiscardo is surrounded by hills, valleys and a rich Mediterranean countryside. Get off the beaten track and go hiking.
- Spend the day soaking up some rays at Xi Beach on the West Coast.
- Explore the Roman Cemetery which wasn’t discovered until 1993 but dates back to the 2nd and 4th centuries.
- Take a hike up to the Venetian Lighthouse, a historic attraction linked to the island’s Italian past, and a great viewpoint for spotting the ferries.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Kefalonia
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Kefalonia and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kefalonia
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where to stay in Kefalonia for beaches?
If you’re looking for a beach holiday, Skala is the place to be! Skala is home to some of Kefalonia’s best sandy beaches and provides a good base for exploring the rest of the island.
Where to stay in Kefalonia for families?
Majestic Stone Villa is the best place to stay for families, you’re located in Fiskardo which is a family-friendly area with loads of great beaches and restaurants nearby.
Where is the best place to stay in Kefalonia?
Apostolata Island Resort and Spa is the overall best place to stay in Kefolina. It’s a bit on the pricey side but if you have the budget, treat yourself to this tranquil retreat, you won’t regret it.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kefalonia
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Kefalonia.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Kefalonia
Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful places in Greece. The Ionian Islands are major tourism hubs during the summer, and whilst Kefalonia is no different, it benefits from a more relaxed atmosphere. Alongside this, you will also find stunning cliffside scenery and unique cultural attractions revealing the fascinating history of the island.
If you’re still unsure of where to perch up, I’ve done you a solid and recapped my top picks for ya.
If you’ve got the cash to splash my overall best hotel in Kefolina would be Apostolata Island Resort and Spa, live like royalty and enjoy the finer things in life, you deserve it.
For my fellow budget backpackers, whilst there may not be any hostels Veranda Apartment is a budget-friendly option with a pretty mean view.
Now it’s over to you Amigo, have fun, be safe and make some incredible memories.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Greece.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Greece.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Greece instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Greece.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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