Kefalonia City Guide
Image by Matt Sims via wikipedia

Greece

Kefalonia City Guide

Decentralized Administration of Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian Islands

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece, is a captivating destination characterized by its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald-green mountains, and stunning turquoise waters. It offers a more tranquil and authentic Greek island experience, appealing to those seeking natural beauty, charming villages, and a relaxed pace of life. While popular with tourists, especially in summer, it maintains an unspoiled feel, making it an attractive option for travelers and remote workers looking for a scenic and peaceful environment.

Lifestyle🍽️

🍽️
Food Scene
Excellent
8

Kefalonian cuisine is a highlight with dishes like meat pie and fish specialties. Restaurants focus on traditional Greek and local dishes.

Local Dishes:
Kefalonian meat pie, Lagoto, Cod pie with skordalia
International Cuisine:
Pizza, Pasta
Vegetarian Friendly
🌙
Nightlife
Good
6

Nightlife in Kefalonia is generally more relaxed than on other Greek islands, focusing on tavernas, bars, and cafes in towns like Argostoli, Lassi, and Fiscardo. It's not a party island but offers pleasant evenings.

Coffee Culture
Good
7

Good coffee culture with traditional Greek coffee and modern espresso drinks widely available.

💰
Tipping
Not Required

Tipping is not mandatory in Greece but is appreciated for good service, typically 5-10% at restaurants.

Top Attractions
Myrtos Beach
Beach
A stunning beach known for its crystal-clear water and scenic view.
Melissani Cave
Nature
An underground lake with beautiful lighting, perfect for boat tours.
Drogarati Cave
Nature
A cave with incredible stalactites and stalagmites.
SIM Cards

SIM cards can be purchased at the airport (though selection might be limited), mobile provider stores in Argostoli, or kiosks.

Available at:
Cosmote
Vodafone
Wind
Recommended Apps
Google Maps(Navigation)
Google Translate(Translation)
Ferryhopper(Transportation)
Free Now(Transportation)
efood / Wolt(Delivery)
Tripit(Travel)
GetYourGuide / Viator / Klook(Tours & Activities)
Marine Traffic(Transportation)
Windy(Weather)

Services & Infrastructure

Street Cleanliness
Good
7

Generally good in main tourist areas and towns, but can vary in more remote spots.

24/7 Services
Poor
3

Limited options for 24/7 services outside of peak season tourist areas.

Groceries
AB Vassilopoulos
Sklavenitis

Major supermarkets in Argostoli and other larger towns will have a decent range of international products, but selection might be limited compared to larger European cities.

Cashless Payments
Widely accepted

Card acceptance is widespread in tourist areas, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, local markets, or in more remote villages where card machines might be less common or unreliable.

ATMs

ATMs are readily available in larger towns like Argostoli and Lassi, and in popular tourist resorts. Common fees may apply for international withdrawals, so it's best to check with your bank.

Schools
Local only

Information on international schools specifically on Kefalonia is limited, suggesting few or none. Local Greek public schools are available.

Work & Digital💻

Coworking Spaces
Not Available
Work-Friendly Cafés
Good
Kefalonia Café
Located in Argostoli, offering Wi-Fi and a cozy atmosphere for work.
Alternatives:
Argostoli Library
Public library with limited Wi-Fi availability.
Digital Nomad Community
Poor
2

No established, large digital nomad community or regular meetups identified.

Nature & Activities🌿

Green Spaces
Excellent
8

Mount Ainos National Park offers significant green space. Argostoli has some parks and a lagoon area.

Running
Good
7

Popular routes include Argostoli waterfront. It's generally safe but can be hot in summer.

Gyms
Available

Gyms and fitness centers are available, particularly in Argostoli and larger resorts.

Available Gyms:
Electra Kefalonia Hotel & Spa
Tennis
Limited
5

Some hotels and private clubs may have tennis courts. Booking is usually direct with the venue.

Padel
Poor
2

Padel is less common, but some private sports clubs might have facilities.

Yoga
Good
6

Some hotels and wellness centers offer yoga classes, mostly catering to tourists.

Martial Arts
Poor
2

Limited information available, likely very few or none catering to tourists.

Skiing
Poor
0

Kefalonia is an island with a Mediterranean climate; skiing is not available.

Water Sports
Excellent
8

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and other sports are widely available at various beaches and centers.

Surfing
Poor
2

Limited information on dedicated surfing spots. The Ionian Sea is generally calmer than the Aegean.

Diving
Excellent
9

Kefalonia offers excellent dive sites including underwater caverns, shipwrecks, and reefs with abundant marine life.

Health & Safety🏥

Healthcare
Good
7

Argostoli has a general hospital where some staff may speak English. Private clinics and doctors in tourist areas are more likely to have English-speaking personnel.

Hospitals:
General Hospital of Kefalonia
Pharmacies:
Pharmacy Maragos
Nitsopoulos Pharmacy
Tap Water Safety
Safe to drink

Tap water in Kefalonia is generally considered safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available for those who prefer it.

Common Scams
Overcharging for taxis, Inflated prices in very touristy areas, Fake goods

Community & Family

Family Friendly
Excellent
8

Kefalonia is a welcoming place for families with its beaches, caves, and family-friendly tavernas and cafes.

LGBTQ+ Friendly
Good
7

Greece is generally tolerant, especially in tourist areas. Kefalonia is a more traditional island but welcoming to visitors.

Pet Friendly
Good
6

Varies by accommodation and establishment. Many outdoor tavernas may be accommodating.

Communities
Kefalonia Expats (Expat Communities)
Kefalonia Travel (Travel Communities)

Quick Facts

Population
36,064
Power Reliability
Excellent
8/10

Power is generally reliable, but occasional short outages can occur, especially during peak summer demand or adverse weather.

Beach Access
Available

Kefalonia is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Myrtos Beach, Antisamos Beach, and Makris Gialos.

Mountains
Available

Mount Ainos is the highest mountain on the island and is a National Park with unique fir forests.

Languages
Greek(100%)
English(75%)
Emergency
112
European Emergency Number
166
Ambulance

⚠️Natural Disasters Risk

🌊
Tsunami
Low Risk
4
🏔️
Earthquake
High Risk
8

🌦️Seasonal Issues

Smoke/haze
July, August
Possible during summer due to wildfires, though not a constant issue.
Extreme heat
June, July, August, September
Common in July and August, with temperatures often exceeding 30-35°C.

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