Where to Stay in Kefalonia
Green, mountainous and spread out — base choice defines your driving.
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands and far greener and more mountainous than the Cyclades. Distances between resorts are longer than they look, so choosing the right side of the island matters — the north is dramatic and picturesque, the south flatter and more family-friendly.
Best Areas to Stay
What each area feels like, and who it suits best.
Fiskardo (north)
A pretty pastel harbour village that escaped the 1953 earthquake, full of yachts, waterfront restaurants and small boutique stays.
Best for: Couples and sailing-minded travellers
Assos (north-west)
A tiny village on an isthmus below a Venetian castle, close to Myrtos Beach. Beautiful, peaceful and very limited in choice.
Best for: Quiet, scenic escapes
Lassi (near Argostoli)
The busiest resort area, with sandy beaches, plenty of hotels and easy access to the capital and airport.
Best for: Convenience and first visits
Argostoli
The island's capital, a working town with a lively waterfront, good tavernas and the main bus connections.
Best for: Travellers who prefer town life to resorts
Skala & Lourdas (south)
Long beaches, gentle terrain and a good supply of family apartments and small hotels.
Best for: Families and longer beach holidays
Types of Accommodation
Small hotels & boutique stays
Concentrated in Fiskardo, Argostoli and Lassi, usually family-run and modest in size.
Villas with pools
Widely available across the island and the most popular choice for families and groups.
Apartments & studios
Good value in Skala, Lourdas and Lassi, often with a kitchen and balcony.
Village houses
Traditional stone properties inland, quiet and affordable, but a car is essential.
Tips for Choosing
- 1
Rent a car. Public transport is limited and the island's best beaches and villages are spread far apart.
- 2
The north is scenic but the roads are winding; allow more time than the distance suggests.
- 3
Many properties close from late October to April, so check opening dates for shoulder-season trips.
- 4
If you want to be near Myrtos Beach, look at Assos, Divarata or Agia Efimia rather than the beach itself.
Practical Advice
Location vs price
Fiskardo and Assos carry a premium for their looks; the south coast offers more space for the same money.
Quiet vs central
Lassi and Skala are the busiest in summer; Assos, Agia Efimia and the inland villages stay calm.
Getting around
Buses connect Argostoli with the main resorts, but a car makes the island genuinely enjoyable.
Arrivals
The airport sits just south of Argostoli, so northern villages are around a 90-minute drive away.
Related Guides
Planning the rest of your Kefalonia trip?
Our destination guide covers what to do and what to eat, and a private transfer takes care of arrivals.
See all Where to Stay guides