Gems of the Ionian Islands: Corfu and Kefalonia 8-day Itinerary
Ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Ionian Islands? This Corfu and Kefalonia itinerary offers pristine beaches, breathtaking hikes, charming towns, and serene vineyards. Tailored for active travelers, this plan blends exploration with moments of quiet luxury, ensuring a perfectly balanced Greek getaway.
Day 1: Arrival in Kefalonia – Relax and Unwind
Touch down in Kefaloniia and settle into your accommodation—opt for a boutique hotel or beachfront villa to set the tone for your adventure. Spend your first afternoon unwinding at the nearest beach (like Makris Gialos, just a short drive from Argostoli).
Later head into town and wander Argostoli’s harbor to see the famous loggerhead turtles. For dinner savor local fare at Olea Kouzinaki or Oenops Wine Cellar & Restaurant, pairing your meal with a local Robola. Cap your evening off with a walk on main square, stopping for a gelato or coffee. Try to catch sunset at the Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi!
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Kefalonia? Check out Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa, F Zeen Kefalonia, and Canale Hotel & Suites.
Tour Ideas: Kefalonia Food Tour
Day 2: Kefalonia’s Beaches and Scenic Towns
Ease into the day with a hike to Fteri Beach (about 45–60 minutes one way), a secluded haven accessible only by trail or boat. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the impossibly blue waters before heading back to tackle the island’s iconic Myrtos Beach. Stop at the clifftop viewpoint for your quintessential Myrtos photo, then descend for a swim and some sunbathing. For lunch, head to Assos, a storybook village with pastel-colored homes and waterfront tavernas. Take a leisurely stroll up to the Assos Castle ruins, where history meets panoramic views.
Then head to the chic harbor town of Fiskardo, where you’ll hike to Emblisi and Kimilia Beaches through tranquil olive groves. On your drive back, visit Gentilini Vineyard for a wine-tasting experience featuring local varietals. Finish the day with dinner at Kamaroules or Melograno in Argostoli, and stop by My Way Garden for a drink afterwards.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Kefalonia? Check out Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa, F Zeen Kefalonia, and Canale Hotel & Suites.
Tour Ideas: Fteri Beach and Private Day Tour, Assos and Fiscardo Island Tour, Wine Tasting, Melissani & Fiscardo Bus Tour, North Kefalonia Tour, Kefalonia Wine Tour, Olive Oil, Honey Tasting and Wine Tour
Day 3: Caves and Coastal Trails
Today’s adventure begins with the ethereal Melissani Cave. Try in the late morning—avoiding the afternoon crowds, but still taking advantage of the midday lighting which transforms the subterranean lake into a kaleidoscope of blues. If you’ve got time, visit the Drogarati Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and acoustics before heading to your hike. Then take on the Antisamos to Koutsoupia Beach hike, a coastal trail offering incredible sea views and secluded beaches. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach before returning. Tonight dine in Sami at Karnagio, where fresh seafood and local dishes shine. For something more casual, head back to Argostoli and enjoy a gyro from O Gyros or Ladokolla.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Kefalonia? Check out Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa, F Zeen Kefalonia, and Canale Hotel & Suites.
Tour Ideas: The Caves Tour, The Caves and Antisamos Beach Swim, Private Caves and Myrtos Beach Swim, Full Day Private Tour
Day 4: Ithaca Day Trip
Dedicate the day to Ithaca, the fabled home of Odysseus. Rent a boat or join a tour to explore highlights like Gidaki Beach, accessible only by sea and perfect for a peaceful swim. Stroll through Kioni Village for a midday coffee, or explore the charming streets of Frikes. Hidden coves, snorkel stops, and postcard-perfect landscapes can make this day a highlight of your Kefalonia experience.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Kefalonia? Check out Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa, F Zeen Kefalonia, and Canale Hotel & Suites.
Tour Ideas: Day Cruise to Ithaca, Sailing Day to Ithaca, Private Sailing Day to Ithaca
Day 5: Transfer to Corfu – Culture and Charm
Fly to Corfu, connecting through PVK airport—you won’t even deplane! Start your cultural exploration at Achilleion Palace, before checking into your hotel or rental. Then head to Corfu town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history and charm. Visit landmarks like the Old Fortress, Mon Repos Palace, Mouse Island, and the Church of St. Spyridon. Plan a pit stop for Stazei Meli’s famous loukoumades, or a gelato at Papagiorgis or Loretto! Wander Liston and Spianada Square, while museum lovers can dive into the Asian Art Museum, Casa Parlante, or Banknote Museum. Enjoy dinner at The Venetian Well, a romantic restaurant tucked away in a quiet square.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Corfu? Check out Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa, Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel, and Domes Miramare.
Tour Ideas: Corfu Town Historical Walking Tour, Governor Olive Mill and Olive Oil Tasting, Small Group Food and Cultural Tour, Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
Day 6: Northern Corfu’s Coastal Gems
Make your way to Paleokastritsa, where you can kayak to hidden caves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or visit the hilltop monastery. Visit Angelokastro, a Byzantine castle perched high above Paleokastritsa, offering panoramic views. Continue north to hike Porto Timoni Beach from Afionas, a double-bay beach with stunning views. Then explore Cape Drastis, a masterpiece of natural rock formations. Circle eastward to Sidari for the iconic Canal d’Amour—legend has it that couples who swim here will stay together forever. Enjoy dinner in Sidari or return to Corfu Town for more culinary adventures, like Spianada or Liston Gastroteque.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Corfu? Check out Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa, Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel, and Domes Miramare.
Tour Ideas: Northwest Corfu Jeep Safari, South Corfu Jeep Safari, Private Paleokastritsa and Glyfada Beaches, Half or Full Day Private Sightseeing Tour, Private Custom Half-Day Tour
Day 7: Hidden Trails and Mountain Villages
The Erimitis Beaches trail in northeastern Corfu offers a serene escape, with untouched coves like Kerasia Beach waiting to be discovered. Spend the morning exploring these secluded spots before heading to Kassiopi, a lively harbor town perfect for a coffee or snack.
This afternoon visit Old Perithia, one of Corfu’s oldest villages nestled in the mountains. Stroll through its preserved stone houses and enjoy a traditional lunch at The Old Taverna. End the day with a hike from Rovinia to Limni Beach, a peaceful, unspoiled gem surrounded by lush greenery. For your final dinner, indulge at Etrusco or the tasting menu at Makris.
Stay: You’ll find great value on short term rentals like Airbnb! Want to splurge on Corfu? Check out Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa, Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel, and Domes Miramare.
Tour Ideas: Countryside Hiking Tour, Rovinia-Limni Beach Hiking Tour, Pantokrator Hiking Tour, Private Cruise to Paxos-Antipaxos, Private Cruise to Paxos-Antipaxos and Blue Caves
Day 8: Farewell to Corfu
That brings us to the end of this unforgettable adventure-packed Corfu and Kefalonia itinerary! Spend your final morning savoring a slow breakfast by the sea or taking a last stroll through Corfu Town’s charming streets.
Have More Time?
With more time in Kefalonia, hike Mount Ainos for panoramic views, or explore the Venetian Castle of Agios Georgios. Spend your day out west on the Paliki Peninsula, with highlights like Petani Beach, Lixouri, or the red sand at Xi Beach. Relax at Skala Beach or explore the Monastery of Agios Gerasimos.
In Corfu, venture to Kalami Beach, tied to the Durrells’ literary legacy, or take a short boat trip to Vidos Island for birdwatching and coastal hikes. You can also check out southwestern Corfu, from Chalikounas Beach and Lake Korission to Issos Beach, Chlomo, and Arkoudilas. Want another sailing adventure? Take a day trip to the Diapontia Islands or Paxos and Antipaxos.
This Corfu and Kefalonia itinerary combines awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural treasures, and culinary delights, ensuring your Ionian adventure is equal parts active and indulgent. Ready to go? The islands are calling.
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