The capital of Kefalonia welcomes visitors with its palm-lined waterfront, active fishing boats, and Drapano stone bridge stretching across the bay's calm waters.
Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia island, wraps around a natural harbor where loggerhead turtles glide past local fishing boats each morning. Walk down Lithostroto, the main pedestrian street, to find traditional Greek cafes serving fresh pastries and strong coffee. Cross the historic De Bosset Bridge, watch sea water spiral into sinkholes at Katavothres, or take a boat ride through the blue-lit chambers of Melissani Lake.
Walking Around Argostoli's Center
Start your walk on Lithostroto, the main pedestrian street lined with small shops selling local honey, olive oil, and crafts. The street leads to the Church of Saint Nicholas, recognizable by its yellow bell tower. End at Plateia Valianou, where tables fill up after 7 PM with locals drinking ouzo and eating mezedes. During summer evenings, kantadoroi musicians play traditional Kefalonian songs on guitars and mandolins. Along the harbor, Ioannou Metaxou Street fills with fishermen selling their morning catch until noon.
Natural Wonders Near Town
Walk to Koutavos Lagoon nature reserve to see loggerhead turtles swimming near the shore - they're most active in the early morning. Drive along the coastal road to find Katavothres, where seawater flows into limestone sinkholes. Scientists have traced this water to Melissani Lake near Sami, where it appears 14 days later. The Saint Theodoroi lighthouse, built in 1829, sits on a man-made peninsula 3 kilometers from town.
Beaches and Swimming
Head to Lassi, 2 kilometers from the center, for swimming at Platis Gialos and Makris Gialos beaches. Both have sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside tavernas. Look for small coves between Argostoli and Lassi - these pine-shaded spots often have fewer visitors. The Mediterranean water temperature stays around 23-25°C (73-77°F) from May through October.
Day Trips from Argostoli
Take a 30-minute drive to Melissani Cave, where boats glide through chambers filled with stalactites. The cave's roof collapsed centuries ago, creating an opening where sunlight turns the water bright blue at midday. Visit nearby Drogarati Cave to see 150-million-year-old rock formations in its main chamber, which hosts occasional classical music concerts. Drive 50 kilometers north to Fiskardo, one of the few villages that survived the 1953 earthquake, to see original Venetian buildings painted in pink, yellow, and cream colors.
Historical Background
The 1953 earthquakes leveled most of Argostoli, except for the De Bosset Bridge - the world's longest stone bridge over sea at 700 meters. Look for the stone obelisk halfway across, marking British rule of the island. Visit the Korgialeneios Library to see photographs and documents from pre-earthquake Argostoli, along with traditional costumes and household items in its Folklore Museum.
