Full-Day Private Tour in Kefalonia

Kefalonia’s stunning landscapes and charming villages come to life during this full-day private tour offered by Thalassa travel group for $253.51 per person. Spanning approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, this guided adventure takes visitors through some of the most iconic spots on the island, including Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, and the picture-perfect Myrtos Beach. The tour is especially well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see Kefalonia’s highlights in a single day, with the convenience of private transportation and customized itineraries.

A key feature is the expert guide who curates your stops based on your preferences, making this tour both flexible and educational. The inclusion of luxury transport, drone photos at Myrtos, and beach essentials like umbrellas and mats elevate the experience. It’s important to note that the entry fees for Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave are not included and cost an additional €13.

While reviews overwhelmingly praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, some highlight that the tour can feel hurried or that guides’ language skills vary. This tour offers a comprehensive and personalized way to explore Kefalonia’s top sights, perfect for travelers seeking a well-organized, scenic experience with the freedom to enjoy each stop.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable tour ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore Kefalonia in one day
• Duration of 7.5 hours with flexible stops and personalized itinerary planning
• Includes luxury transportation, drone photos, and beach essentials like umbrellas and mats
• Key stops include Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, Myrtos Beach, and charming villages like Assos and Fiscardo
• Entry fees for caves are extra (€13), not included in the ticket price
• Highly rated guides known for their friendliness and knowledge, with some variability in language skills

Kefalonia’s Top Sights: From the Caves to the Beaches

The full-day private tour begins at the Saint Theodore Lighthouse in Argostoli, a lighthouse built during the British occupation, serving as a local symbol. From there, the guide leads you to the Sinkholes of Argostoli, where seawater vanishes underground through holes in the rocks, connecting to Melissani Lake via an underground water flow. This geological phenomenon is free to view, but the lake boat tour costs extra.

Next, the tour ventures into Drogarati Cave, discovered 300 years ago after an earthquake caused its entrance to collapse. This spectacular cave features stalactites and stalagmites, and its roughly 150 million years old formations attract those interested in geology. The cave maintains a steady temperature of 18°C but has high humidity. Entry passes are not included, so plan for the additional €13.

Exploring Melissani Lake and Its Mythical Mysteries

A highlight of the tour is the boat ride across Melissani Cave, where the bizarrely shaped stalactites and flowstones create a surreal scene. The lake’s brackish water is supplied by springs, including the Katavothres source. The guide points out formations resembling dolphins, linking the cave to local mythology. Visitors can opt to buy tickets at the entrance, which are not included in the tour price.

Near the lake, the charming fishing village of Karavomilos offers scenic views of Ithaca and a tranquil setting with a circular lake. This area is rich in vegetation and wildlife, including ducks, swans, and herons, providing a peaceful break from the more active stops.

Sun and Sand at Antisamos Beach

After exploring underground wonders, the tour stops at Antisamos Beach, one of Kefalonia’s most popular swimming spots. Located 30.6 kilometers east of Argostoli, this long, sandy beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Travelers enjoy approximately 45 minutes here, with free entry, allowing ample time to unwind and enjoy the clear waters.

Visiting the Village of Agia Efimia and Divarata

Next, the itinerary includes a visit to Agia Efimia, a scenic bay village famous for its peaceful atmosphere and charming harbor. The village offers opportunities for lunch or shopping in its quaint taverns and shops, making it a relaxed stop to experience local life.

A brief stop at Divarata, a small village above Myrtos Beach, provides a chance to purchase souvenirs and enjoy refreshments. This village offers picturesque views and a chance to appreciate Kefalonia’s rural charm.

Myrtos Beach: Iconic Views and Drone Photography

One of the most striking sights is Myrtos Beach, famed for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. The tour includes a stop at a scenic overlook above the beach, where a drone camera captures unforgettable footage of the shoreline. The 15-minute stop allows visitors to admire the view and take photos, with free entry. It’s a perfect moment for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Assos Village: Mountain Views and Castle Ruins

The tour continues to Assos, a small village perched on the mountainside. Visitors can walk around the village or have lunch while enjoying views of the castle perched above it. This stop offers a peaceful break amid Kefalonia’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. The 30-minute visit is free, giving time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Fiscardo Harbour: The Preserved Venetian Village

The final major stop is the traditional village of Fiscardo, renowned for its well-preserved Venetian architecture that survived the island’s 1953 earthquake. The 1 hour and 30 minutes here allows time for a meal or drinks at local taverns and a visit to the historic Venetian lighthouse. Fiscardo’s harbor offers scenic views and a chance to browse local crafts before the tour concludes.

Logistics and Inclusions: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins at Thalassa Tours’ meeting point in Argostoli and ends back at the same location. Pickup service is offered, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort. The package includes beach essentials like umbrellas and mats, as well as bottled water, snacks, wine, and alcoholic beverages to enjoy along the way.

While entry fees for Melissani and Drogarati Caves are not included—adding €13—guests benefit from private transportation and the flexibility to customize the itinerary. Group discounts are available, and booking tends to be made about 49 days in advance on average.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

Guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. The tours are designed to be personalized, with some reviews noting guides’ ability to explain and share stories about Kefalonia’s history and landmarks. However, some reviews mention variability in English language skills, so communication may differ depending on the guide.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Details

Priced at $253.51 per person, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, and it operates Monday through Saturday during spring and fall hours, with an option for Sunday service in the summer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day private experience suits travelers seeking a comprehensive view of Kefalonia’s key sights with the comfort of private transport and customized stops. It is especially popular among first-time visitors, families, and groups wanting to combine natural wonders, historical sites, and picturesque villages in one seamless day. The inclusion of scenic overlooks, caves, beaches, and villages makes it ideal for those who appreciate diverse scenery and cultural charm.

Final Thoughts on the Kefalonia Private Tour

This 7.5-hour guided adventure offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, geological wonders, and charming villages. The personalized itinerary and luxury transport are notable strengths, creating a relaxed yet engaging experience. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge receive high praise, though variability in language skills may be a consideration for some.

While the entry fees for caves are extra, the overall value remains strong given the comprehensive itinerary, scenic stops, and special touches like drone photos. This tour is perfect for those who want a hassle-free day of sightseeing without the constraints of group tours or large buses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, beach umbrellas and mats, photos, bottled water, snacks, and wine. Entry fees for Melissani and Drogarati caves are not included and cost an additional €13.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, offering ample time at key sites and scenic stops.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Saint Theodore Lighthouse, Sinkholes of Argostoli, Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, Antisamos Beach, Assos Village, Myrtos Beach, and Fiscardo Harbour.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, guides tailor the itinerary based on your preferences, allowing flexibility at each stop.

Are food and drinks included?
Snacks, wine, and alcoholic beverages are included, along with beach essentials. However, meals at villages like Assos and Fiscardo are not included but can be enjoyed during the stops.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and cash or cards for optional purchases or meals.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, especially given the easy pace and short walking distances at stops, but consider the physical demands of some sites.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve via the Viator platform, with the meeting point at Thalassa Tours’ office in Argostoli. Bookings tend to be made about 49 days in advance.

What makes this tour different from other Kefalonia excursions?
Its private, customizable approach, combined with scenic drone photos and inclusive amenities, offers a personalized experience that large group tours can’t match.