Argostoli GreeceCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Argostoli

Cruise ships visiting Kefalonia typically dock at a new pier in Argostoli, the island's capital. With only one berth available, larger vessels usually secure the pier, while others may use tenders. Tender boats disembark passengers at the old harbor, right in the heart of town. From either the pier or the tender landing, the town center is an easy 10-15 minute walk.

Kefalonia, also known as Cephalonia (locals pronounce it "sefalonia"), was largely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1953, resulting in predominantly modern architecture. Argostoli itself is a bustling working port, serving as the main hub for ferries, yachts, and freight, and offers extensive shopping and dining opportunities. The island gained international recognition from the film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin."

Getting Around from the Port

Argostoli's town center is very walkable from the cruise pier or tender drop-off point, requiring just a 10-15 minute stroll. A mini-train is available at the dock for 7 Euro, offering a 20-minute tour, though much of this can be explored on foot.

For exploring beyond Argostoli, car rental is highly recommended, allowing easy access to the island's attractions within about an hour's drive. Taxis are readily available at the port upon arrival, charging 35 Euro or less per hour; sharing a taxi for a custom tour is a popular and efficient option. Additionally, car ferries operate hourly (more frequently in high season) between Argostoli and Lixouri on the western peninsula, running from 7:30 am to 10:30 pm. The journey takes 30 minutes and costs €2.60 per person.

Attractions and Activities

Explore Argostoli on Foot: From the tender pier, turn left and walk along the boulevard to find the "floating fish market," where local fishermen sell their catch directly from their boats. A block or two inland are pleasant pedestrian shopping streets perfect for a relaxed wander.
St. George Castle: Located near Argostoli in the scenic Livatho Valley, this historic castle dates back over 1,600 years. It requires a short taxi or rental car ride.
Assos Castle: Approximately 22 miles north of Argostoli, this significant European Heritage Site is the largest castle on Kefalonia, featuring extensive walls, stone tunnels, and bastions. Reaching it is best done by rental car or taxi.
Drogarati Cave & Melissani Cave: These two natural wonders are often visited together. Drogarati Cave, discovered after the 1953 earthquake and estimated to be over 100 million years old, is famous for its colorful stalagmites and stalactites. Nearby, Melissani Cave features a unique subterranean lake with brackish water, where visitors can enjoy boat rides to explore its depths. Both are accessible by taxi or rental car.
Myrtos Beach: Arguably one of the most beautiful beaches globally, Myrtos is located just north of Argostoli. It's renowned for its striking white pebble beach surrounded by dramatic vertical cliffs. A rental car or taxi is necessary to reach this iconic spot.
Custom Taxi Tours: A typical 4-hour taxi tour could include highlights like St. Gerasimos Monastery, Drogarati Cave, and Myrtos Beach. Comparing these with cruise line excursions is advisable.

Dining & Shopping

Argostoli boasts a lively waterfront filled with tavernas, restaurants, and shops. The town also hosts an excellent fresh fruit and vegetable market, open daily. Following its reconstruction after the 1953 earthquake, Argostoli has maintained its charming original street layout, offering cosmopolitan pedestrian shopping streets for souvenirs and local goods.

Retail stores and specialty shops generally operate from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm and then again from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weekdays, and from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturdays. Supermarkets have longer hours, typically 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Friday, and 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturdays. Tourist and convenience stores often stay open much later, from dawn to well after midnight during the summer season. Free Wi-Fi is available at the pier near the tourist office, and many cafes also offer complimentary internet access.

Weather

Argostóli on Cephalonia (home of Captain Corelli's Mandolin) has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers between 77–86°F (25–30°C) during the cruise season from May to September. Light clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. The extraordinary loggerhead sea turtles nesting on nearby beaches, the remarkable Melissani underground lake, and the dramatic mountain scenery of the largest Ionian island make Cephalonia a uniquely diverse Greek island destination.

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Top Attractions

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De Bosset Bridge

An impressive stone bridge built by the British in 1813, connecting Argostoli to the opposite shore. It's the longest stone bridge over a sea gulf and offers scenic views of the lagoon and town.

Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi

A picturesque lighthouse with a unique circular structure and 20 columns, rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake. It's a popular spot for sunset views and photography.

Archaeological Museum of Argostoli

Houses artifacts from prehistoric to Roman times found across Kefalonia, including pottery, tools, and jewelry. It provides insight into the island's ancient history and civilizations.

Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum

Located within the Korgialenio Library, this museum showcases the island's history, culture, and daily life from the 16th century to 1953. Exhibits include traditional costumes, furniture, and historical documents.

Lithostroto

The main pedestrian street of Argostoli, bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, and experiencing the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Vallianos Square

The central square of Argostoli, named after the benefactor Panagis Vallianos, whose statue stands proudly here. It's a lively hub for locals and tourists, surrounded by cafes and public buildings.

Katavothres

A unique geological phenomenon where seawater flows into sinkholes and travels underground across the island, eventually resurfacing in Melissani Cave. Visitors can observe the water disappearing into the earth.

Makris Gialos Beach

One of Kefalonia's most popular and organized beaches, known for its golden sand and clear, shallow waters. It offers various amenities, water sports, and beach bars, ideal for families.

Saint George's Castle

The former capital of Kefalonia, this Venetian castle offers panoramic views of the island and the Ionian Sea. Explore its ruins, the old prison, and the small church within its walls.

Monastery of Agios Gerasimos

The most sacred pilgrimage site on Kefalonia, dedicated to the island's patron saint, Saint Gerasimos. Visitors can see the saint's relics and explore the beautiful monastery complex and its old plane tree.

Argostoli Lagoon

A tranquil natural lagoon that separates Argostoli from the De Bosset Bridge. It's a protected wetland, home to various bird species and often visited by loggerhead sea turtles, especially in the harbor area.

Focas-Cosmetatos Foundation

A cultural institution housed in a neoclassical mansion, featuring a collection of historical documents, photographs, and furniture from Kefalonia's past. It offers a glimpse into the island's aristocratic life.

Napier Garden

A peaceful public garden named after Sir Charles Napier, a British governor of Kefalonia. It's a pleasant green space with benches, trees, and a playground, ideal for a relaxing break.

Saint Spyridon Church

A charming Orthodox church located on Lithostroto street, known for its beautiful iconostasis and religious frescoes. It's a serene place for reflection and admiring traditional Greek ecclesiastical art.

Gradakia Beach

A small, charming sandy beach with calm, clear waters, located very close to Argostoli in the Lassi area. It's less crowded than Makris Gialos, offering a more secluded swimming experience.

Kalamia Beach

A quiet, picturesque beach with pebbles and clear waters, nestled between rocks near Argostoli. It's a great spot for snorkeling and enjoying the natural beauty away from the main crowds.

Memorial of the Acqui Division

A poignant memorial dedicated to the Italian Acqui Division soldiers who were massacred by German forces in 1943. It serves as a solemn reminder of a tragic WWII event.

Paliostafida Beach

A small, sandy cove with calm, clear waters, located just south of Lassi. It's a less crowded option for swimming and sunbathing, often a starting point for walks to nearby coves.

White Rocks Beach

A stunning, secluded beach known for its white cliffs and incredibly clear turquoise waters. It's primarily accessible by boat or a challenging walk from Paliostafida, offering a pristine natural experience.

Argostoli Harbor

The bustling port of Argostoli, where fishing boats, yachts, and ferries dock. It's famous for daily sightings of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) swimming in its clear waters, especially in the mornings.