Kefalonia is the 6th largest island in Greece and was formerly known as Kefallinia or Kephallenia. It is located in the Ionian Islands in western Greece. Dozens of unrecorded tremors occur every year in Kefalonia which lies in the heart of an earthquake zone. This place holds a rich history. In 1953, a huge damage was caused to the island and all the buildings were destroyed by an earthquake which led to immigration of people from this island. But later this island recovered from its loss and now is a place of attraction for tourists. Goats in this island have golden teeth as the soil is very rich in inorganic metals which are responsible for the colour of the teeth. This is very unique but you can see these goats once you visit this place. Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, which are an endangered species, are also found on this island. This beach is so beautiful; people often call it ‘Beach Paradise’.

When to visit Kefalonia, Greece

June to October is the best time to visit this island. At this time, you can experience the sandy beach and the gentle sea breezes. You can enjoy the clubs, bars and restaurants on your visit to this island. The sea is comfortable enough to swim in and you can also participate in the various water sports that take place around these months on the island.

What to know about Kefalonia, Greece

Climate

The summers in Kefalonia are usually dry and hot. 11 to 12 hours of sunshine is received by this island and rainfall is very rare. The beach has a beautiful view to offer along with the gentle sea breezes. It is very comfortable to walk around the beaches, roam the entire island, to go swimming and engage yourself in the water sports. The winter season is almost long, windy, cloudy and cold. The average temperature in summer is around 26, and in winters the average temperature is around 9.

Currency

Euro is the currency which is used in this city. If you are travelling to this city then you can use your credit cards as they are widely accepted throughout the country. ATM’s are also available on the island where you can use your cards. However, it is advisable to exchange your currency at the exchange currency office or airport when visiting the city.

Transportation

Kefalonia is a wonderful island to visit and to witness its beauty there are many public transport you can use.

Public bus

Taxis

Motorbike rentals

Sea bus

Car hiring

Ferry boat

Language

Greek is the official and most widely spoken language in Kefalonia. English is also spoken by almost every person there, so it will not be a problem for you if you don’t understand Greek. Italian is also widely recognized by the native people.

Robola Wine Festival

This is a very famous festival of Kefalonia which is celebrated since the year 1978. It is to celebrate the new production of the award winning Robola wine which is basically produced on the island. It is celebrated every year on the first weekend after August 15th. For two continuous days you are free to drink as much free Robola wine as you can. Along with free wine, this festival offers free food and dancing until the early hours. Fragata and Balsamata are the two villages where this famous wine festival takes place. It is the most famous festival of the summer season and attracts a lot of people from around the world. You can enjoy your heart out at this festival. 

Places of attractions in Kefalonia, Greece

Fiskardo

Fiskardo is the historic and prettiest village in Kefalonia. This village is situated on the northern tip of the island. After the earthquake of 1953, a lot of destruction was caused in the village and even destroyed the buildings. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is the film you can watch to know more about the destruction caused by the earthquake. This village has a beautiful architecture that makes this place very special to visit. In the front of the village you can see the luxury boats, upmarket seafood and restaurants where you can enjoy and relax. Many people who visit Kefalonia stay in this village to enjoy its beauty. This village is a place of attraction and full of life.

Myrtos Beach

It is one of the most spectacular beaches in Europe. It is situated between the feet of two mountains which are Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros. It is very beautiful and listed in travel publications as one of the top 30 beaches in the world. You can wear bright and colourful clothes and take pictures on the beach. This is a complete two kilometre long beach and has dramatic limestone cliffs which offer a mind-blowing view of the island. The beach has clear blue water and white pebbles which look beautiful at the time of sunrise and sunset. You can relax by the beach and can enjoy the wonderful food, warm hospitality and villages around the island. This is a beautiful beach and you must visit it with family and friends.

Assos

This is a small village situated on the peninsula on the west coast of Kefalonia. This village has a very relaxing atmosphere. There are many lovely villas and places to stay along with the local market and mini shops. There is a place called the Paris Square, where you can see the restaurants, cafe-bars and waterfront tavernas which are run by local people of the village. There is a Venetian Castle in this village built in the 16th century located up on a hill which offers an awesome view of Assos village on one side and the beautiful Ionian Sea on the other. The village is very famous for its natural beauty. A lot of people from around the world visit this island and stay in Assos village to enjoy the warm hospitality offered by this village. It is worth it to stay and relax in this village.