The 11 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Cephalonia

Cephalonia is a Greek island that offers much more than its stunning beaches. If you want to truly experience this island’s character, a guided tour or special experience can elevate your visit. We’ve sampled the top options, from full-day boat adventures to private island excursions. One standout? The QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch combines unspoiled beaches with homemade Greek cuisine, perfect for a relaxing day on the water. We also love the Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca, which offers an intimate sailing experience, ideal for couples or families seeking a quieter day at sea. For those curious about the island’s caves, the Drogarati and Melissani Lake tour provides a cost-effective way to explore these geological marvels, complete with boat rides and underground chambers.

Cephalonia’s tours cater to a range of interests, whether you prefer exploring charming villages, snorkeling in secluded bays, or discovering underground caves. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of some of the best options, with links to more details.

Quick Overview

The list below features a mix of full-day cruises, private guided tours, half-day explorations, and specialty excursions. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure like the QueenBee boat trip, a romantic sunset cruise at Queen Bee Sunset, or an in-depth cave exploration with Drogarati and Melissani Lake, there’s something for every traveler.

Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which experience fits your trip best.

1. QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

At number 1 on our list, the QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip offers a leisurely exploration of Cephalonia’s coast and nearby islands. For around $75, you get approximately 8 hours of sailing on two charming wooden boats, Queen Bee I & II. The highlight is visiting secluded coves and sandy beaches only reachable by sea, such as the White Rocks beach. The trip includes swim and snorkel stops, where you can enjoy the warm waters of the Ionian Sea. The crew, known for their warmth and humor, prepares a home-cooked Greek lunch that’s both filling and authentic.

This tour is notable for its informality and friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a relaxed day with good company. Many reviews mention the crew’s engaging personality, with guests commenting on how “the staff were very involved and made the day very enjoyable.” The combination of an all-day boat adventure with a traditional meal gives this experience a great value, especially considering the personalized touch.

Bottom line: If you’re seeking an authentic, fun-filled day on the water with plenty of swimming and good food, this trip is hard to beat.

2. Kefalonia Half Day Private Tour & Shore Excursion

For roughly $75, the Kefalonia Half Day Private Tour & Shore Excursion provides a tailored experience designed for cruise ship passengers or visitors wanting flexibility. This private tour lasts about 5 hours and can be customized. It often includes stops at Drogarati Cave, Myrtos Beach, and traditional villages, with a focus on responsible wildlife viewing, such as watching sea turtles in Argostoli harbor.

Guests praise the professional guiding of local driver Dimitris, who makes the tour personal and informative, sharing stories and history along the way. Reviewers note that Dimitris is “very knowledgeable and engaging,” making it a highlight of their trip. The flexibility allows you to spend more time at places like Myrtos Beach or explore additional spots, depending on your interests.

Bottom line: Ideal for visitors who want an intimate, customized overview of Kefalonia’s top sites without the crowds, especially if arriving via cruise ship.

3. Full-Day Fiskardo Island Guided Tour

Suppose you crave a comprehensive look at Kefalonia’s northern coast. In that case, the Full-Day Fiskardo Island Guided Tour covers the picturesque seaside village of Fiskardo, Assos, and the famous Melissani and Drogorati caves. Starting at around $40, this 8.5-hour trip includes visits to Myrtos Beach and allows plenty of free time for photos and exploring.

A notable feature is the air-conditioned vehicle that makes the journey comfortable, even on hot days. Guests consistently highlight the guide’s excellent storytelling, with Elvira providing engaging historical and cultural insights. Guests appreciate the blend of scenic drives, charming villages, and natural wonders like Myrtos Beach.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring the northern coast with a reliable guide and a mix of sightseeing and free time.

4. Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca

For around $174, the Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca offer an intimate sailing experience aboard a yacht. This 8-hour trip includes visits to Gidaki Beach, often ranked among Greece’s top beaches, where you can snorkel in clear waters. The cruise also features swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard with traditional Greek food and drinks.

The small-group setting means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience. Many reviews note how the snorkeling gear and paddleboards enhance the fun, with travelers describing the day as “a perfect mix of relaxing and active.” The focus on comfort and quality makes it ideal for couples or families seeking a quieter, more exclusive day at sea.

Bottom line: If you’re after a relaxed, upscale experience exploring Ithaca’s hidden bays, this is a top pick.

5. The Caves – Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake

At around $77, the Caves tour combines two of Kefalonia’s most famous underground attractions. The trip includes a visit to Drogarati Cave, with its spectacular stalactite formations, and Melissani Lake, where you’ll take a boat ride through the glowing blue waters.

Guests praise the value for money and the knowledgeable guides who explain the geology and legends of each site. The trip is perfect for those interested in geology or wanting a shorter, educational outing. The underground chambers and lake boat ride make this a memorable experience, especially if you like natural wonders.

Bottom line: A compact, affordable way to see Kefalonia’s famous caves, especially if you’re interested in geology or short excursions.

6. Assos and Fiscardo Island Tour

This 8-hour tour at about $52 offers a well-balanced day exploring Assos, with its colorful houses and Venetian castle, and Fiskardo, known for its luxury yachts and charming harbor. The guide takes you into Melissani Cave and gives a lively commentary on local legends and history. The visits to Assos and Fiskardo are highlights, with time to stroll, shop, or enjoy a coffee.

Many reviewers comment on the friendly driver and informative guide, with some saying it was the best way to see the north of the island without renting a car. The easy pace makes it suitable for those who want to see the highlights without rushing.

Bottom line: Good for travelers wanting a full day of scenic villages, with a knowledgeable guide and flexible schedule.

7. Queen Bee Sunset Cruise with Swim Stops and Dinner

The Queen Bee Sunset Cruise offers a romantic 4-hour journey that combines scenic sailing and a traditional Greek dinner. Departing from Argostoli, the tour explores the Vardiani Islands and includes swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. As the sun sets, you enjoy homemade food and drinks under the stars, making it perfect for couples or anyone wanting a special evening.

Guests rave about the welcoming crew and the beautiful scenery at sunset, with many mentioning how memorable the evening was. The small-group setting and the option to night swim add intimacy and adventure.

Bottom line: A great choice for a romantic or special evening to cap off your Cephalonia visit.

8. Full-Day Kefalonia Private Sightseeing Tour

At around $115, this private tour is ideal for those who want total control over their day. Covering major sites like Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, Drogarati Cave, and Antisamos Beach, the flexible itinerary can be tailored to your interests. The guide shares stories and local insights, making each stop engaging.

Guests often mention the professionalism of the guide and how the customized pace suited their needs. The small group or private vehicle makes it easier to explore at your speed, especially if you want to focus on specific sites.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a personalized experience with full control over their sightseeing day.

9. Full-Day Kefalonia Adventure

This 8.5-hour tour for about $41 offers a high-energy exploration of Kefalonia. Starting in Lixouri, the tour visits Kipoureon Monastery, Myrtos Beach, and Petani Beach. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to see many highlights with minimal fuss.

Reviewers note the expert driving on tight mountain roads and the well-organized itinerary. It’s a full day, but many say the experience passes quickly thanks to the variety of sights.

Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking an active, comprehensive day with a local guide.

10. Discover Ithaka (Ithaca) Cruise & Tour

Costing around $65, this full-day tour combines a ferry cruise with explorations of Vathy, Gidaki Beach, and Kioni. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to experience Ithaca’s natural beauty and charming villages without a long ferry ride. The swimming stop at Gidaki is a highlight, often ranked among Greece’s best beaches.

Guests describe the trip as “beautifully organized,” with Elvira providing friendly guidance. The mix of beach time and village exploring makes for a varied day.

Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a day trip to Ithaca with a balance of relaxing and sightseeing.

11. Spectacular View of Kefalonia: A Private Tour

At approximately $150, this private, full-day tour offers an expansive view of Kefalonia’s landscapes, including stops at Vassilakis Winery, Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, and Antisamos Beach. The focus is on natural beauty and wine tasting, with local guides ensuring a comfortable, personalized experience.

Travelers note the expert driver, the scenic stops, and the relaxed pace. It’s best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, rundown of the island’s highlights.

Bottom line: Perfect for couples or groups wanting a high-end, all-encompassing private tour.

How to Choose Your Cephalonia Tour

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, timeframe, and budget. If you’re after a relaxed day on the water with authentic food, the QueenBee Boat Trip is a top choice. For a personalized experience that fits your schedule, the Private Kefalonia Tour offers flexibility. If caves fascinate you, the Drogarati and Melissani Lake provides an affordable, educational adventure. Those seeking stunning scenery should consider the Spectacular View Private Tour, while history lovers will enjoy the Fiskardo Guided Tour.

Think about your travel style — do you prefer small-group cruises, private guides, or self-paced exploration? Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your preferred experience.

In sum, Cephalonia offers a rich variety of tours and experiences to suit many tastes. Whether you’re drawn to cruising the coast, exploring caves, or visiting charming villages, you’ll find options that highlight what makes this island special. Two standout choices are the QueenBee boat trip for its fun, relaxed vibe, and the Luxury Ithaca cruise for its intimate, upscale sailing. For a more educational or cultural experience, the Caves tour or a private island day can deepen your understanding of the island’s natural wonders.

Book your favorite experiences early to ensure you get the most out of your time in Cephalonia. Each offers a chance to see a different side of this beautiful island — so pick the one that best matches your interests and enjoy your trip.