from $557
6-Day Cruise from Piraeus (26MSC445)
6-day cruise on the MSC Sinfonia to Greece - Italy
Argostoli (Kefalonia), Greece
Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, stretches around a sheltered bay on the island’s western coast. The town combines a relaxed waterfront atmosphere with lively cafés, traditional tavernas and a distinctly Greek island character. Although a major earthquake in 1953 destroyed much of the old town, Argostoli was rebuilt and remains Kefalonia’s main commercial and cultural centre.
The port of Argostoli welcomes cruise passengers directly into the heart of the island’s capital, with the waterfront, shopping streets and central squares close at hand. The town is also an excellent starting point for exploring Kefalonia’s famous caves, mountain villages, vineyards and beaches, whether by taxi, rental car or organised shore excursion.
Top attractions and sights
The Argostoli waterfront is the natural starting point for a day ashore. Stroll along the harbour promenade, where colourful fishing boats share the water with visiting yachts, and look for the loggerhead sea turtles that sometimes appear near the fishing boats and waterfront.
- De Bosset Bridge: This historic stone bridge crosses the narrow Koutavos Lagoon and is one of Argostoli’s best-known landmarks. It was built during the British period and offers pleasant views across the lagoon.
- Koutavos Lagoon: The lagoon is a peaceful area for a walk, with calm water, greenery and opportunities to spot local birdlife.
- Katavothres and the Saint Theodore Lighthouse: At Katavothres, seawater disappears into underground channels, a notable geological phenomenon on Kefalonia. Nearby, the circular Saint Theodore Lighthouse makes a picturesque coastal stop.
- Archaeological Museum of Argostoli: The museum displays finds from Kefalonia, including artefacts from the island’s ancient Greek and Roman settlements.
- Saint Gerasimos Monastery: Located inland near the village of Valsamata, this important religious site is dedicated to Kefalonia’s patron saint and can be visited on an island tour.
- Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave: These celebrated natural attractions are among Kefalonia’s most popular excursions. Melissani is known for its underground lake and boat rides, while Drogarati features impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- Assos and Myrtos: The colourful village of Assos and the spectacular viewpoint over Myrtos Beach are rewarding destinations for a longer scenic drive across the island.
Beaches
Several attractive beaches are accessible from Argostoli, making a short beach visit possible during a cruise call. Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are among the most convenient choices, offering clear water, sandy shores and nearby facilities during the summer season.
Gradakia Beach, near Lassi, is another popular option with a more intimate setting. Travellers taking a longer island excursion can visit Myrtos Beach, one of Kefalonia’s most famous coastal viewpoints, although the drive and winding roads mean that timing is important on a cruise day. Xi Beach, known for its reddish-golden sand and pale cliffs, is farther away on the Paliki Peninsula.
Local products and shopping
Argostoli’s shops and market stalls are good places to look for edible souvenirs and island-made gifts. Kefalonia is particularly known for its Robola wine, produced from the native Robola grape in vineyards around the island’s central mountains.
- Robola wine: Choose a bottle from a local winery or specialist shop to take home, subject to your cruise line’s rules for carrying alcohol onboard.
- Olive oil and honey: Kefalonian olive oil and thyme honey are practical souvenirs that capture the flavours of the island.
- Mandoles: These red-coated caramelised almonds are a traditional Kefalonian sweet and an easy gift to pack.
- Local sweets and pastries: Look for mandolato, a nougat-style confection, along with other almond and honey-based treats.
- Traditional crafts: Ceramics, woven items, lace and religious souvenirs can be found in Argostoli’s independent shops and around the central shopping streets.
Food and local cuisine
Kefalonian cuisine makes generous use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs, seafood and locally produced cheese. Argostoli’s waterfront tavernas are ideal for a leisurely Greek lunch, while smaller eateries away from the harbour often offer traditional island recipes.
- Kreatopita: Kefalonia’s richly flavoured meat pie is one of the island’s most characteristic dishes, usually prepared with meat, pastry, herbs and a savoury filling.
- Bakaliaropita: This traditional cod pie combines salted cod with pastry and local seasonings.
- Aliada: A garlicky potato and fish sauce, often served with seafood or fried cod, and a distinctive part of Kefalonian cooking.
- Bourou-bourou: A comforting vegetable and pasta soup made with seasonal ingredients.
- Robola wine: The island’s crisp white wine pairs well with seafood, grilled fish and local appetisers.
- Mandoles and mandolato: These almond-based sweets are popular choices for dessert or a small edible souvenir.
Tips for cruise passengers
Depending on the ship and sailing conditions, cruise passengers may arrive at Argostoli’s cruise berth or be brought ashore by tender. The waterfront and central town are generally easy to explore on foot once you arrive, with cafés, shops and restaurants close to the harbour.
For a relaxed day, combine a waterfront walk with De Bosset Bridge, the Archaeological Museum and a meal in town. If you want to see Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, Saint Gerasimos Monastery or Assos, book an organised shore excursion or arrange reliable transport in advance, as roads can be winding and sightseeing stops take time.
Start longer excursions early and allow plenty of time to return to the port. Wear comfortable shoes, carry sun protection and water, and check your ship’s all-aboard time before leaving Argostoli. If you are visiting in the warmer months, reserve time for a swim at Makris Gialos or Platis Gialos, but keep your beach stop flexible so that you can return comfortably before departure.