Things To Do
in Argostóli
Argostóli, Kefalonia’s capital, sits at the head of a sheltered harbor with pastel neoclassical buildings lining the quay. The town blends a lively waterfront with a compact, walkable center of shops, cafés, and tavernas that bustle at sunset. It serves as a gateway to the island’s famous caves, beaches, and dramatic hill country, including Mount Ainos.
In the evenings the harbor sparkles with lights, fish markets hum, and locals share meals over Robola wine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the vibrant waterfront promenade of Argostóli. Enjoy a delicious Greek breakfast at a seaside café while taking in the stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Don’t forget to visit the nearby famous Drapano Bridge, an iconic structure offering picturesque photo opportunities.
After lunch, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum. Explore the intricacies of Kefalonian history through fascinating exhibits showcasing traditional crafts and artifacts. Wrap up your afternoon with a swim at the crystal-clear waters of Makris Gialos Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local tavernas for a fresh seafood dinner paired with some fine local wine. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather for evening entertainment and music. Finish your night by enjoying a drink at a beachfront bar while watching the stars light up the sky.
Set off early to explore the stunning landscapes of the nearby Melissani Cave. Take a captivating boat tour through the shimmering, emerald waters of this enchanting natural wonder. Afterward, enjoy a picnic breakfast in the lush surroundings of the cave area.
Visit the Drogarati Cave, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. Marvel at the geologic wonders that tell the story of the island's ancient past. Spend some time hiking the beautiful trails surrounding the cave before heading back to Argostóli.
Return to Argostóli and dine at a traditional Greek taverna to savor local dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. Engage in conversation with friendly locals and share stories over dinner. End your evening by attending a cultural event or folk dance performance if available during your visit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $4-7 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $6-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to beaches and caves
- Excellent seafood, fresh produce, and local Robola wine
- Friendly locals, relaxed Ionian atmosphere, and scenic harbor views
- Gateway to Melissani and Drogarati caves, and Mount Ainos hikes
- Can be busy in peak summer months, especially around the harbor
- Some smaller tavernas may require cash payments or have limited English menus
- Transport between Argostóli and outlying beaches or caves can require a car or motorbike
- "Geia sou" - Hello (informal)
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Milate Anglika?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pou einai i toualeta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Poso kostizi?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Argostóli
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic wooden bridge spanning the bay; a classic sunset photo spot with boats and reflections in calm water.
Harbor-facing lighthouse with sweeping sea views and a backdrop of the town’s lights at dusk.
Pedestrian street lined with pastel neoclassical buildings; perfect for street photography and candid café scenes.
Natural water feature where water disappears underground and reappears in the harbor; ideal for architectural and geological shots.
Food in Argostóli
Argostóli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kefalonian pasta with a slow-cooked meat ragout, a traditional island specialty best found in tavernas that specialize in regional dishes.
Must-Try!
A savory Kefalonian meat pie with flaky pastry and a seasoned filling; a staple in many family-run tavernas.
A simple, classic preparation highlighting fresh seafood and bright citrus from the local coast.
Assortment of fish and shellfish caught that day, often served with bread, olive oil, and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy produce, cheeses, olives, fruit, and occasional prepared foods; great for sampling island flavors.
Seasonal catches sold fresh; ideal to pick up seafood for a sunset meal at your accommodation or a local taverna.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly ‘Kalimera’ (good morning) or ‘Kalispera’ (good evening); use ‘efharisto’ for thank you.
Mealtime is social; order at the tempo of the table, avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces, and accept hosts’ hospitality graciously.
Safety
Tipping in Argostóli
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated if service is good and not already included in the bill.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops; smaller tavernas may take cash only, so carry some euros.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long sunny days; beach season peaks, water temperatures comfortable for swimming; expect crowds around harbor and popular beaches.
Mild days with some rain showers; sea remains warm, and crowds thin a bit, making it a good time for photography and hikes.
Milder than mainland Greece with occasional rain and cooler evenings; some services may operate on reduced schedules, but Argostóli remains pleasant for exploring.
Blooming landscapes, olive groves and hillsides come alive; comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and hiking.
Argostóli at Night
Hiking in Argostóli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails in Kefalonia’s highest peak area with panoramic island views; varied difficulty levels and wildlife opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Argostóli by plane.
Located near the northern coast, about 7-15 kilometers from Argostóli, with seasonal and year-round flights connecting to Athens and other major hubs.
Primary international gateway for long-haul connections; most visitors connect here before taking a domestic flight to Kefalonia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Greek residents with aging population in some areas; strong family ties and traditional hospitality.
Mix of Greek holidaymakers and international visitors, especially in summer, attracted by caves, beaches, and island cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local teams and informal games occur around towns and beaches.
Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular along the coast; organized tours operate from Argostóli and nearby resorts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Argostóli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include Greek salads, grilled vegetables, tomato fritters, spanakopita, and various bean or cheese-based dishes; many tavernas can adapt dishes upon request.