Argostoli, the lively capital of Kefalonia, Greece, is a vibrant town with a mix of modern amenities, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. Located on the southwestern coast of the island along the picturesque Argostoli Bay, it’s a bustling hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the best of Kefalonian culture, food, and attractions. Here’s a detailed guide on what to see and do in Argostoli, Kefalonia.
What to See in Argostoli
De Bosset Bridge
Description: The De Bosset Bridge, or Drapano Bridge, is the longest stone bridge over the sea in the world, stretching over 690 meters (2,263 feet) across Argostoli Bay. Built by the Swiss engineer Charles de Bosset in 1813 during the British occupation, it stands as a historic symbol of the town.
What to Do: Stroll across the bridge to enjoy panoramic views of Argostoli, the surrounding mountains, and the bay. It’s also a great spot for sunset walks or early morning exercise. Halfway across, you’ll find a small obelisk commemorating the bridge’s construction.
Lithostroto Street
Description: Lithostroto is the main pedestrian shopping street in Argostoli, lined with boutiques, cafes, souvenir shops, and local stores selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and regional products.
What to Do: Walk along Lithostroto Street to browse local goods, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the Church of Agios Spyridon, a small yet charming church on Lithostroto known for its beautiful iconography.
Kefalonia Archaeological Museum
Description: This small but fascinating museum displays artifacts from the Mycenaean to the Roman periods, including pottery, jewelry, and coins that tell the story of Kefalonia’s ancient history.
What to Do: Explore the museum’s exhibits to gain insight into Kefalonia’s past. Highlights include Mycenaean ceramics and statues, as well as artifacts linked to ancient Kefalonian life.
Korgialenio History and Folklore Museum
Description: Located within the Korgialenios Library building, this museum provides a glimpse into Kefalonian life in the 19th and early 20th centuries through displays of traditional clothing, photographs, furniture, and household items.
What to Do: Learn about Kefalonia’s cultural history by exploring exhibits on local customs, architecture, and lifestyle. The museum is particularly interesting for those wanting to understand how life on the island was before modernization.
Argostoli Marina and Harbor
Description: The marina is a scenic area where local fishing boats and luxury yachts moor, creating a bustling yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s the heart of Argostoli’s seafront and offers lovely views of the bay.
What to Do: Stroll along the marina to admire the boats, stop for a coffee at a waterside cafe, or simply enjoy the ambiance. If you’re lucky, you may spot Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), which often swim near the fishing boats in the early morning, looking for scraps of fish.
Bell Tower of Campana Square
Description: The Bell Tower of Campana Square is one of Argostoli’s most recognizable landmarks, originally built in the 18th century and rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake.
What to Do: Visit Campana Square to see the clock tower, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding shops and cafes. Climb to the top for views over Argostoli’s streets and rooftops.
Fanari Lighthouse (Saint Theodore Lighthouse)
Description: Built by the British in 1829, the Fanari Lighthouse is located on a small peninsula just outside Argostoli. It has a distinctive circular structure with Doric-style columns and is surrounded by scenic coastal views.
What to Do: Visit the lighthouse at sunset for stunning views over the sea. The surrounding area is peaceful, making it a great spot for a romantic stroll or a quiet moment by the water.
What to Do in Argostoli
Relax at the Beaches Nearby
Argostoli is close to some of Kefalonia’s best beaches, perfect for a day of relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing.
Makris Gialos Beach: Located just a short drive from Argostoli, Makris Gialos is a sandy beach with clear, turquoise waters, sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. It’s one of the island’s most popular beaches, offering a lively atmosphere and various water sports.
Platis Gialos Beach: Adjacent to Makris Gialos, Platis Gialos is quieter and equally beautiful, with golden sand and calm waters, ideal for families and couples.
Enjoy Greek Cuisine at Local Tavernas
Argostoli has an excellent selection of tavernas and restaurants serving traditional Greek dishes and local specialties, such as kreatopita (Kefalonian meat pie), fresh seafood, and goat dishes.
Dining Options: Try tavernas along the waterfront or Lithostroto Street for an authentic dining experience. Many places serve local wine from the Robola variety, Kefalonia’s signature grape, and freshly caught fish from the Ionian Sea.
Visit the Fruit and Fish Markets
Description: The Argostoli Fish Market and nearby Fruit and Vegetable Market offer a taste of local life. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, herbs, spices, and seafood sold by local fishermen and farmers.
What to Do: Explore the markets to see local ingredients, interact with friendly vendors, and perhaps pick up some fresh fruit or olives for a snack. The fish market is especially lively in the morning when the catch of the day arrives.
Take a Sea Turtle Spotting Tour
Argostoli Bay is one of the few places in Greece where Loggerhead sea turtles are commonly seen. These gentle creatures often swim close to the fishing boats in search of food scraps, especially in the early morning.
What to Do
Join a guided turtle-watching tour, or visit the marina around sunrise to spot the turtles as they swim near the shore. Some tour operators offer eco-friendly tours that allow you to see the turtles up close while learning about their conservation.
Explore the Katavothres Watermills and Sinkholes
Description: Just a short drive from Argostoli, the Katavothres is a fascinating natural phenomenon where seawater flows inland through sinkholes, creating a unique sight. Historically, watermills were built to harness the flow of water here.
What to Do: Visit the site to observe the phenomenon and learn about the geological mystery behind the disappearing seawater. It’s an interesting stop for those curious about Kefalonia’s natural wonders.
Hike or Cycle Around the Argostoli Lagoon (Koutavos Lagoon)
Description: Koutavos Lagoon is a nature reserve located near the De Bosset Bridge. It’s a peaceful area home to birds, fish, and turtles, with scenic paths winding around the water.
What to Do: Take a leisurely walk or rent a bicycle to explore the lagoon. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting local species, and the area is ideal for a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Argostoli hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year that showcase Kefalonian traditions, music, and cuisine.
Argostoli Carnival: Held during the Greek Carnival season, this lively event includes colorful parades, music, dancing, and traditional costumes. It’s a fun event for all ages, filled with energy and festive spirit.
Religious Feasts: Argostoli celebrates many religious holidays, including Easter, with processions, music, and fireworks. The Feast of Saint Gerasimos, Kefalonia’s patron saint, is also celebrated with great reverence.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Villages and Attractions
Argostoli’s central location makes it a great starting point for exploring the rest of Kefalonia.
Myrtos Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Greece, Myrtos is a breathtaking sight with white pebbles and vivid blue waters. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Argostoli and well worth a visit.
Assos Village: Known for its Venetian charm and scenic bay, Assos is a small village surrounded by beautiful landscapes. It’s about an hour’s drive from Argostoli.
Fiscardo: This picturesque harbor village is known for its preserved architecture, upscale dining, and stylish shops. Fiscardo is located on the northern tip of Kefalonia and can be reached by a scenic drive from Argostoli.
Practical Information
Getting Around: Argostoli is compact and walkable, but renting a car or scooter is recommended for visitors who wish to explore the beaches and attractions around the island.
Accommodation: Argostoli offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels and boutique guesthouses to vacation rentals, many of which provide easy access to the town’s main attractions and waterfront.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months are the busiest, especially July and August. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in May, June, or September.
Summary
Argostoli offers an ideal blend of culture, history, natural beauty, and Greek hospitality. From exploring historical sites like the De Bosset Bridge and the Korgialenio Museum to shopping along Lithostroto Street and spotting sea turtles in the marina, Argostoli has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on nearby beaches, savoring local dishes at waterfront tavernas, and venturing out to nearby villages and scenic spots. As the vibrant heart of Kefalonia, Argostoli is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure on this enchanting Greek island.