The third part of our Kraxe-Wien trip took us from the beautiful island of Zakynthos to the enchanting shores of Cephalonia. This Ionian treasure has breathtaking beaches, charming villages, and some of the friendliest people we've ever met. Equipped with our reliable Styer Eco and Melk Eco backpacks, both waterproof and versatile, we were ready to explore the wonders of this island. These laptop rucksacks proved to be much more than everyday city backpacks—they fit perfectly under seats and were ideal as travel backpacks.
Let’s dive into our unforgettable adventure in Cephalonia.
A Ferry to Cephalonia: Sunset Arrival
We took the night ferry from Agios Nicolaus harbor in Zakynthos to Pessada harbor in Cephalonia. The journey was quick, and we were lucky enough to witness a stunning sunset as we approached the island.
Upon arrival in Pessada, we quickly realized that there’s no taxi rank at the port, so it’s important to arrange a hire car in advance or call a taxi from the center of the island. Fortunately, taxis are quick and hassle-free, so it wasn’t long before we were en route to our accommodation in Argostoli, the capital of Cephalonia.
Welcome to Argostoli: Our First Taste of Cephalonia
Our stay in Argostoli began with a warm welcome from our host, Anna Maria, who was simply outstanding. She greeted us with all the warmth and hospitality you expect in Greece, and since it was already late (past 10 PM), she recommended we head to the nearby bus station for a late-night snack.
There, we discovered Riganada, a local delicacy made from bread, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil. It was a perfect way to end our travel day and enjoy a true taste of Cephalonia.
Argostoli itself is a lively town filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. One of its key features is the Drapano Bridge, a stone bridge that spans the Koutavos Lagoon, offering picturesque views of the water. The town has a mix of modern amenities and historical sites, making it a perfect base for exploring the island.
Day One: Beaches and Beauty
The next morning, we were eager to hit the beaches, and our first stop was the stunning Makris Gialos Beach. Known for its warm, transparent waters, this beach is popular with both locals and tourists. We spent a few hours swimming and relaxing, with our waterproof backpacks keeping our essentials safe from sand and water.
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Makris Gialos Beach: The beach has a great restaurant and plenty of nearby eateries, making it a great place to spend a leisurely morning.
After a refreshing swim, we decided to continue our journey to the famous Myrtos Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The drive down to Myrtos offers breathtaking views, with the bright turquoise waters contrasting against the white cliffs and sand.
- Myrtos Beach: A must-visit for anyone traveling to Cephalonia, Myrtos Beach is the definition of natural beauty. With fewer crowds in the late afternoon, we had plenty of space to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
A Sunset in Assos: Cephalonia’s Hidden Gem
As the day drew to a close, we set out for the charming village of Assos, one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever seen. Nestled by the sea, Assos is a small village with colorful houses that look straight out of a fairytale. The view of the bay, framed by lush hills and traditional homes, was simply magical.
- Assos Village: The village is perfect for a peaceful stroll, and its beautiful bay makes it a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.
- Sunset in Assos: We were treated to another unforgettable sunset, with the orange and pink hues reflecting on the calm waters. Almost no one was around, making it feel like we had the entire place to ourselves.
Day Two: Fteri Beach – An Adventurer’s Dream
On our second full day in Cephalonia, we set out to explore Fteri Beach, one of the island’s more remote and hidden gems. Getting there involves a 5-kilometer hike (10 kilometers round trip), so it’s important to be prepared.
- The Journey to Fteri: The hike to Fteri Beach takes you through rugged, scenic landscapes. We made sure to pack plenty of water and snacks in our Melk Eco backpack—its lightweight design made it perfect for the adventure.
- Fteri Beach: Once we arrived, we were rewarded with a stunning, deserted beach with crystal-clear waters. It’s an idyllic spot far removed from the crowds, perfect for those who want to experience the untouched beauty of Cephalonia.
Dinner at Gialos Taverna: A Taste of Authentic Greece
After our beach adventure, we headed to Atheras Beach and enjoyed dinner at Gialos Taverna, a quaint eatery located by a small bay. The setting was peaceful, and we were welcomed by a group of friends playing Greek music on their guitars. The combination of delicious food and music made for a perfect evening.
- Gialos Taverna: The food here is authentic and full of flavor, with dishes like grilled fish, souvlaki, and fresh salads. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of Greek island life.
Moving to Assos and Exploring Fiskardo
We were so enchanted by Assos that we decided to move our accommodation there for the remainder of our stay. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views made it an ideal spot for us to relax and continue our exploration of Cephalonia.
From Assos, we took a day trip to Fiskardo, a beautiful fishing village located on the northern tip of the island. Fiskardo is known for its Venetian architecture, colorful houses, and luxury yachts lining the harbor. The village has a chic, laid-back vibe, and we spent the day wandering through its narrow streets, enjoying local cafes, and soaking in the relaxed ambiance.
The Final Days: A Cephalonia Farewell
Sadly, our time in Cephalonia came to an end, but the memories we made on this island will last a lifetime. Whether it was the stunning beaches, the charming villages, or the warm hospitality of the locals, Cephalonia left an indelible mark on our hearts.
- Greek Hospitality: As with our time in Zakynthos, the people of Cephalonia were incredibly friendly, helpful, and always willing to share their beautiful island with visitors.
Throughout the trip, our Steyer Eco and Melk Eco backpacks proved to be invaluable. Their durable, waterproof design kept our belongings safe, and their versatility made them the perfect travel backpacks for everything from hiking to exploring beach towns.
Final Thoughts on Cephalonia
Our 8 days exploring the Ionian Islands were incredible, but Cephalonia truly stood out as a place of natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming locals. Each village, beach, and sunset offered something special, making it one of the most beautiful places we've ever visited.
Thank you, Greece, for these fabulous days of adventure, and we can’t wait to return!
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