Argostoli is the lively capital of the Greek island of Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island known for its breathtaking beaches, lush nature, picturesque villages and stunning natural attractions.
With a population of around 24,000, Argostoli is the largest town and the main port of Kefalonia. The cruise terminal is located in the heart of the Old Town, making it easy for cruise passengers to explore the town on foot.
Argostoli is also a great starting point to explore the rest of the island, which I definitely suggest you do while you’re there. I had a chance to visit this stunning island on my vacation and all I can say is – it’s absolutely worth it!
In this post, I’ll give you an overview of Argostoli cruise terminal and the 11 best things to do and see in Argostoli and across the beautiful island of Kefalonia.
Visit also our cruise port guide to Corfu, Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Crete, Rome (Civitavecchia), Kotor
Argostoli Cruise Port
Argostoli Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the town center, within a 10-minute walk from the main shopping street and the central square.
Only one ship can dock at a time. At the end of the pier, you’ll find a Tourist Information Office where you can get maps and brochures. Taxis and a bus stop are available across the street.
Supermarkets, ATMs, restaurants, cafes, and shops are available within a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
Argostoli itself doesn’t have a nice beach. The closest and (in my opinion) most beautiful beach is located in Lassi, Argostoli’s suburb and a tourist resort located around 4 km from the cruise port.
Getting Around Argostoli and Kefalonia
- There is a local bus connecting Lassi and Argostoli and it runs approx. every 30 minutes. You will get off at “Makris Gialos” or “Platis Gialos” stops in Lassi, from where you can walk to the beach. The ride takes around 10 minutes each way. Check the Kefalonia bus timetables
- A taxi price to Lassi costs around 9-10€ per vehicle each way (price from 2024) and you’ll find taxis in front of the terminal.
- If you want to explore other places on the island, it’s best to do so by renting a car or booking a guided tour, as local transportation is unpredictable and departures rare.
- Argostoli town center is flat and easy to navigate. To reach it, just turn left upon exiting the terminal, walk along the seafront to the “I Love Kefalonia” sign, cross the street to the right and you’ll get to the central square and the main street.
- A Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Train is available within a 5-minute walk from the pier, right next to the ferry terminal. The loop takes 40 minutes, with a 20-minute stop at De Bosset Bridge, one of the town’s main landmarks.
- Both Argostoli and Kefalonia are perfectly safe to get around, but, of course, always keep an eye on your personal belongings.
- The official currency in Greece is the EURO (€) and cards are widely accepted.
11 Best Things To Do In Argostoli Cruise Port (Kefalonia Island)
There’s so much Kefalonia is famous for, from its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and delicious food and wine to its rich history and natural attractions like lakes and caves.
If you decide to stay in Argostoli, you can easily explore this charming little town on foot, but if you decide to explore the island, I definitely suggest booking a guided island tour or renting a car. Here’s the list of the best things to do and see:
1. Explore Argostoli
The charming Argostoli was founded in the 18th century and has been the island’s cultural and economic hub ever since. Below are the must-dos in Argostoli:
1.1. Argostoli Promenade and Harbour
A 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal, you’ll come across this beautiful waterfront that stretches along the edge of the city’s bay.
Lined with swaying palm trees, this scenic path is perfect for taking in views of the turquoise waters and bustling harbor, where local fishing boats and luxury yachts dock side by side.
As you walk along the promenade, you’ll pass many tour operators selling cruises around the island and to Ithaca, so if you’re in for another cruise – here’s where you can book it!
Near De Bosset Bridge, there’s a section of the promenade where you’ll find a few great restaurants overlooking the bay. This is the most scenic spot in the town to have a meal, so check it out.
The promenade is also a perfect place to catch a glimpse of the famous sea turtles Caretta Caretta that often swim near the shore.
1.2. Caretta Caretta Turtles
One of the most exciting experiences in Argostoli is spotting the Caretta Caretta turtles, or loggerhead sea turtles, that often swim near the harbor.
Argostoli’s warm, shallow bay provides a perfect feeding ground for these turtles, which can sometimes be seen up close as they surface for air.
These magnificent creatures can be spotted in the mornings near the fishing boats where fishermen often feed them. I was even lucky to spot one in the evening, just around sunset time!
1.3. De Bosset Bridge
De Bosset Bridge, also known as Drapano Bridge, is one of Argostoli’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for anyone exploring the town.
Built in 1813 by Swiss engineer Charles Philippe De Bosset, it is the longest pedestrian stone bridge in Europe, stretching across the Koutavos Lagoon.
At the center of the bridge stands an obelisk erected in honor of De Bosset’s work and the British administration that once governed the island.
Walking along this historic bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the tranquil lagoon, and the beautiful harbor of Argostoli.
1.4. Lithostroto shopping street
Located less than a 10-minute walk away, Lithostroto Street is the heart of Argostoli’s shopping and cultural scene.
This lively pedestrian street, paved with smooth stones, is lined with a variety of boutiques, local shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can pick up some local souvenirs, enjoy a coffee at an outdoor café, or simply people-watch.
As you walk along Lithostroto, you’ll notice a blend of traditional and modern architecture, with historic buildings housing trendy stores and family-run businesses.
It’s also home to two historic landmarks: the Catholic Church of St. Nicholas and Saint Spiridon Greek Orthodox Church.
1.5. Vallianos Central Square
Named after Panagis Vallianos, a native of Kefalonia and a key figure in modern Greek history, Vallianos Central Square is the bustling heart of Argostoli.
This lively square is a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops.
At its center stands an imposing statue of Panagis Vallianos and there are also benches where you can sit and relax.
A few cultural landmarks surround the square, including the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, which showcases artifacts from Kefalonia’s ancient past, and the Corgialenios History and Folklore Museum, where you can explore the island’s rich cultural heritage.
1.6. Fanari Road and Saint Theodore Lighthouse
If you want to get away from the bustling town center, but still be near the port, you can take a walk along a scenic coastal route just outside Argostoli, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
The route starts near the cruise terminal; all you have to do upon exiting the ship is turn right and follow the path through the pine woods.
The highlight of this route is the circular Saint Theodore Lighthouse, known locally as “Fanari,” built in 1828 by the British. This iconic white lighthouse features a unique neoclassical design with white columns surrounding its structure and offers amazing photo ops, especially at sunset.
In this area, you’ll find a couple of wild beaches and swimming areas, as well as several restaurants and cafes. It’s a tourist, well-maintained route, so it’s perfectly safe to walk around.
Check out Argostoli tours and activities
2. Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos Beach
Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are two of the most popular beaches located near Argostoli, in the neighboring tourist resort called Lassi.
Situated next to each other and easily reachable via public bus that you can catch in Argostoli cruise port and town center, the beaches are known for their soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Makris Gialos, the larger of the two, offers excellent facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and water sports, including banana boat rides, paddleboarding, jet skis and kayaking.
There are a couple of beach clubs, out of which “Costa Costa” is the most popular and most expensive one. The price for a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella ranges between 35-60€ (price from 2024), which is quite a lot. “Costa Costa” features a large restaurant where you can have snacks, lunch, or refreshments.
Platis Gialos, right next to it, is a smaller, quieter stretch of sand but equally (if even not more) beautiful, providing a more tranquil beach experience. Here, the sunbed/umbrella set is 15€ (price from 2024).
There are no restaurants on Platis Gialos, just a small cafe where you can grab drinks or buy snacks, including sandwiches. Water sports are not available here.
Both beaches are well-equipped with amenities like showers, changing rooms, and nearby parking, making them easily accessible if you are coming by car.
3. Myrtos Beach
Often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Myrtos Beach is a stunning sight with its striking contrast of white pebbles and turquoise waters.
Located on the northwest coast of Kefalonia, a 45-minute drive from the port, the beach is set against steep cliffs and offers a dramatic and picturesque backdrop.
Famous for its unspoiled natural beauty, Myrtos is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, though you should be aware that the waves can sometimes be strong.
The access to the beach may also be closed due to the bad weather, which happened when I visited, so I only had a chance to see the beach from a viewing hilltop platform.
While Myrtos is more secluded, it does offer basic amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small beach bar.
The panoramic views from the road above are breathtaking, making Myrtos Beach a must-visit for anyone traveling to Kefalonia.
Explore Myrtos Beach tours and activities
4. Assos Village
A 1-hour drive north of the port, relatively close to Myrtos Beach is a lovely Assos, a charming and picturesque coastal village nestled between lush hills and the serene Ionian Sea.
Known for its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere, the village is built around a small, sheltered harbor, where fishing boats bob on the turquoise waters.
With its colorful houses lining narrow streets, cozy taverns and friendly locals, Assos is truly idyllic and a must-see destination in Kefalonia.
Overlooking Assos is the impressive Venetian Castle of Assos, a historic 16th-century fortress that offers spectacular views of the village and coastline. To get to the fort, you need to walk for about 20-30 minutes each way via a paved path starting near Assos Beach.
Explore Assos tours and activities
5. Melissani Lake
Nestled near the town of Sami, a 45-minute drive northeast of Argostoli cruise port is one of Kefalonia’s most enchanting natural wonders, famous for its striking underground lake and unique geological beauty.
The cave is partially open to the sky, allowing sunlight to filter through and illuminate the crystal-clear waters with a mesmerizing blue glow.
Visitors can take boat tours through the cave, gliding across the transparent waters while admiring the stunning stalactites that line the cave’s walls.
The combination of light, water, and rock formations creates a truly magical atmosphere, making Melissani Cave a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Its natural beauty, coupled with its mythological significance—said to be a place where ancient nymphs resided—makes it one of Kefalonia’s most popular attractions!
Explore Melissani Lake tours and activities
6. Drogarati Cave
Also located near Sami and Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave is a spectacular underground cavern known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Formed over millions of years, the cave offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the island’s natural history. With its large chambers and remarkable acoustics, Drogarati has even hosted live music performances in the past.
It takes about 30 minutes to visit the cave and there are dozens of steps to be taken, so consider this before booking. I’ve seen people with mobility difficulties doing it, but please be careful.
A couple of cafes and shops are available on-site, so you can also stay there in case you don’t want to go inside.
Check out Drogarati Cave tours and activities
7. Monastery of Saint Gerasimos
The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos (“agios” means “saint” in Greek), located in the Omala Valley within a 25-minute drive from Argostoli port, is one of the most important religious sites on the island, dedicated to the island’s patron saint, Saint Gerasimos.
This peaceful and spiritual place holds great significance for locals and pilgrims alike, as Saint Gerasimos is believed to have performed many miracles.
The monastery complex consists of the Old Church, a humble, underground space where Saint Gerasimos lived and prayed, and the adjacent New Church, a grand Byzantine-style building with beautiful frescoes and icons, housing the relics of Saint Gerasimos in a silver casket.
The monastery is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, as the Omala Valley is also renowned for its wine production.
Every year, on the feast days of Saint Gerasimos, thousands of visitors come to the monastery to honor the saint and participate in the religious celebrations.
Explore the Monastery of Saint Gerasimos tours
8. Wine-Tasting Tour
The Omala Valley, with its fertile soil and ideal climate, is the heart of Kefalonia’s wine production, and several local wineries offer tours and tastings.
You can explore vineyards, learn about traditional winemaking methods, and sample a variety of wines, including the signature Robola. This crisp, citrusy white wine, made from the native Robola grape, has been produced in the region for centuries and is one of Greece’s most renowned wines.
This is a must-do if you are a wine lover and want to try premium quality local wine!
9. Fiscardo Village
Located on the northern tip of Kefalonia, 50 km north of Argostoli cruise port, Fiscardo is a picturesque seaside village known for its colorful Venetian-style buildings and charming harbor.
Unlike many other villages on the island, Fiscardo was spared from the devastating 1953 earthquake, allowing it to retain much of its traditional architecture.
The village’s harbor is filled with fishing boats, yachts, and sailboats, and ranks among the most picturesque places on the entire island.
Lined with cozy cafes, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops, Fiscardo is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed meal by the water. It’s got a lot of cute, typically Greek taverns and gelaterias offering mouth-watering gelato – I definitely recommend you try it!
Fiscardo is surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters and offers stunning views of the neighboring island of Ithaca.
Explore Fiscardo tours and activities
10. Cruise to Ithaca
Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus from Homer’s “The Odyssey”, is an island steeped in history and myth.
Known for its rugged landscapes and crystal-clear waters, Ithaca has a timeless appeal that draws travelers from all over.
The island’s capital, Vathy, is a charming coastal town where visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca, which houses artifacts from the island’s rich ancient history, and the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, known for its beautiful bell tower.
Daily boat cruises to Ithaca from Kefalonia typically include stops at Vathy and the picturesque villages of Kioni and Frikes.
Along the way, you can enjoy swimming in secluded bays, exploring traditional villages, and walking in the footsteps of ancient Greek legends. These tours often include time for lunch at a local taverna, offering a taste of authentic island life.
Explore Cruises to Ithaca from Kefalonia
11. Antisamos Beach
Located near the town of Sami, a 50-minute drive northeast of Argostoli, Antisamos is one of Kefalonia’s most stunning beaches, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and backdrop of lush green hills.
The beach, made famous by the film “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” which was partly filmed there, is a mix of white pebbles and pristine waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, Antisamos offers both relaxation and opportunities for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
It’s one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve been to, so I absolutely recommend it!
Explore Antisamos Beach tours and activities
Wrapping Up
I truly hope you enjoyed reading this Argostoli cruise port guide! The truth is, Kefalonia takes time to visit and you need at least a week, but I hope I gave you an overview so you can plan your day according to your preferences. Enjoy your cruise!
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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