Argostolion, the lively port town of Kefalonia, offers a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the island’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and unique geological wonders. Its proximity to must-see attractions like Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, and picturesque Fiskardo makes it an ideal spot for memorable shore excursions. Whether you’re after a scenic tour, a relaxing beach day, or an immersive cultural experience, Argostolion has something to satisfy every taste. We’re especially fond of tours that combine natural beauty with authentic local flavor, like the Kefalonia Shore Excursion Highlights Tour which hits many of Kefalonia’s highlights in a well-rounded six hours.
For those craving a deeper dive into Kefalonia’s sights, the Melissani & Drogarati Cave tour offers a mix of underground marvels and stunning beaches, while the Fiskardo & Assos tour takes you through charming villages and scenic coastal views. If a day of lounging by the sea sounds better, Makris Gialos Beach provides the perfect escape. For an exclusive experience, the Private Cruise offers a chance to see sea turtles, underwater caves, and pristine waters. Below, we’ll walk through each tour, pointing out what makes them special and helping you pick the best fit for your trip.
1. From Argostoli: Kefalonia Shore Excursion Highlights Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Kefalonia Shore Excursion Highlights Tour is a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive taste of the island’s most iconic sights. For about $85 per person, you’ll spend around 6 hours exploring Kefalonia in a comfortable van. The tour hits the famous Melissani Cave, where a boat ride takes you into a subterranean lake illuminated by sunlight, creating a surreal glow. Then, you’ll visit the Drogarati Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, which has been a geological wonder for centuries.
One of the highlights is Myrtos Beach, often called one of the most beautiful on the island, with its steep cliffs and shimmering waters. You’ll also get time to relax on Antisamos Beach, known for its pebbled shoreline and clear waters perfect for swimming. The tour includes a local wine tasting, which adds an authentic flavor to the trip. Customers praise the professionalism of guides like Costas, who ensures you enjoy the pace and highlights of Kefalonia. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural wonders, beach time, and cultural insights.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, expert-led tour that delivers a lot in a short time, perfect for cruise travelers wanting the essentials without feeling rushed.
2. From Argostoli: Fiskardo & Assos Shore Excursion
Next up is the Fiskardo & Assos Shore Excursion, which costs about $203 per person. This six-hour trip is more exclusive and offers a deeper look at Kefalonia’s northern coast. The tour begins with a scenic drive, including a Myrtos Beach photo stop, where the views of the dramatic cliffs and sea make for fantastic photos. You’ll then visit Assos, a village famous for its pastel-colored houses and a fortress dating back to Venetian times. It’s a quiet, picturesque spot to stroll and soak in the atmosphere.
The highlight for many is Fiskardo, a lively yet charming village with lively cafes, boutiques, and stunning waterfront views. The guide shares stories about the history and local life, making the visit feel personal. After a leisurely lunch, the tour includes a stop at a winery for a tasting—adding a delicious local twist. Guests mention the passionate guide and the manageable pace, which allows plenty of time to explore each village.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in scenic coastal villages, photography, and authentic local experiences, though it’s a pricier option and better suited for those wanting an immersive day.
3. Argostoli Port: Flavors of Kefalonia
For those interested in local tastes and traditions, the Flavors of Kefalonia offers a six-hour tasting adventure. This tour focuses on Kefalonia’s culinary products, including olive oil, honey, and Robola wine, which you’re invited to sample at several stops. You’ll also explore St. George’s Castle, gaining insight into the island’s past while enjoying panoramic views.
The experience includes a visit to a local olive oil factory, where you learn about production methods. The highlight is the wine tasting at a seaside shop, where you can try authentic Kefalonian wine paired with local cheeses. This tour suits food lovers who want a flavorful, authentic experience and an insight into Kefalonia’s gastronomic traditions.
Bottom line: Ideal for those eager to taste local products and learn about the island’s culinary heritage, with enough time to enjoy a relaxed pace.
4. Argostoli Port: Shore Excursion to Makris Gialos Beach
If a day dedicated to sun and sand is your idea of a perfect shore excursion, then the Makris Gialos Beach trip is hard to beat. For around $50.82, you get five hours of beach time at one of Kefalonia’s most popular spots. The tour starts with a pickup from one of 29 possible locations in Argostoli, including the cruise terminal, making logistics straightforward.
Once there, you can swim, sunbathe, or explore the nearby town. The waters are crystal clear, and the beach’s soft sands are perfect for relaxing or taking a walk. The itinerary includes a short transfer back to Argostoli, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the sun. Many travelers praise the flexibility of the schedule and the quality of the beach experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a straightforward beach day without complex tours or long drives, perfect for families or anyone needing a chill day.
$50.82 per person
5. From Argostoli: Melissani & Drogarati Cave Shore Excursion
At number 5, the Melissani & Drogarati Cave Tour offers a shorter but packed four-hour adventure. The tour begins with a visit to Myrtos Beach for a quick photo, then dives into the underground with a boat ride into the stunning Melissani Cave. The lake inside is famous for its shimmering water, created by sunlight filtering through a natural opening.
Next, you’ll visit Drogarati Cave, an impressive geological site with stalactites and stalagmites that have developed over thousands of years. This tour provides a well-rounded glimpse of Kefalonia’s underground landscapes without taking up the whole day. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the awe-inspiring caves, making this a good pick for travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: Compact and illuminating, this tour is best for those who want a taste of Kefalonia’s natural wonders without a full-day commitment.
$163 per group up to 3
6. Kefalonia Private Cruise – Shore Excursion from Argostoli
Finally, for travelers seeking an exclusive, personalized experience, the Private Cruise ranks at number 6. For about $84 per person, this five-hour boat tour offers the chance to see sea turtles in Argostoli, explore underground caves and lakes, and enjoy swimming in turquoise waters.
The boat journey takes you into the lake of Melissani, where you can marvel at the geological formations from the water. The guide shares insights about local wildlife and geology, and you get plenty of time for swimming and relaxing on your own schedule. Many reviewers mention the breathtaking views of Myrtos Beach and the chance to taste local products onboard.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible day on the water with a focus on wildlife and geological features, ideal for couples or small groups.
$84 per person
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Argostolion
When selecting your Kefalonia experience, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend ashore. If you love a mix of caves, beaches, and wine, the Kefalonia Highlights Tour offers excellent value. For those drawn to charming villages and scenic coastal drives, the Fiskardo & Assos Tour provides an immersive feel. Food lovers should look into the Flavors of Kefalonia for authentic tastings, while beach enthusiasts will enjoy the simplicity of the Makris Gialos Beach day.
For a quick yet impressive underground adventure, the Melissani & Drogarati Cave suits travelers with limited time. And for a luxurious, customizable outing, the Private Cruise offers privacy and flexibility.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
In summary, Argostolion offers a broad range of options—from scenic cave explorations to relaxing beach days and private boat trips. Two standout choices are the Kefalonia Shore Excursion Highlights Tour for a quick, rundown, and the Private Cruise for a personalized experience on the water. No matter what you choose, Kefalonia’s natural beauty and authentic charm are sure to make your shore day memorable.