Sami Cephalonia is a treasure trove for travelers craving authentic experiences, stunning landscapes, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic caves, scenic boat rides, or exploring local villages, Sami offers a variety of memorable tours. We especially love the Argostoli: Shore Excursion to Caves with Local Wine Tasting for its combination of natural wonders and local flavor, and the Kefalonia: Discover Full Day Private Tour for its personalized itinerary and comprehensive coverage of the island’s highlights.
What makes Sami particularly appealing is its accessibility and the diversity of experiences—ranging from boat trips and cave visits to cultural and geological explorations. This list offers a well-rounded look at what you can enjoy, with options suited for cruise passengers, independent travelers, and groups seeking a private day out. For those who want a taste of everything, the Private Tour: The Ultimate Kefalonia Experience provides a thorough insight into Kefalonia’s top sights, while the Kefalonia: The Caves Tour offers a deep dive into its stunning underground worlds.
1. Argostoli: Shore Excursion to Caves with Local Wine Tasting
At number one, this half-day shore excursion combines Kefalonia’s most breathtaking caves with a delightful local wine tasting. It’s designed for cruise passengers or visitors with limited time, offering a compact way to see some of the island’s natural and cultural highlights. The tour features a boat ride through Melissani Cave Lake, where the sunlight creates shimmering reflections that make the water seem otherworldly.
Afterward, you’ll visit the Drogarati Cave, famous for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy a local wine tasting at a seaside venue, which lets you sample Kefalonia’s renowned Robola wine. The itinerary also includes a photo stop at one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide Maria and the smooth organization, with several reviewers noting that the tour felt well-paced and informative.
What sets this experience apart is its mix of awe-inspiring geological sites and authentic local flavors, all within a manageable 5-hour window. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of Kefalonia’s natural beauty without sacrificing depth.
Bottom line: A fantastic, well-organized tour showcasing caves, cultural tales, and wine, ideal for cruise visitors or those with limited time.
2. Kefalonia: Day cruise Ithaca, sailing Lunch 3 swimming spots
For about 8 hours of adventure, this sailing cruise from Sami to Ithaca offers a full immersion into the Ionian Sea’s beauty. It’s perfect for those who love being on the water, enjoying panoramic views, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The tour explores Lygia island, a lesser-known spot with a winter shelter for fishing boats, giving a glimpse into local maritime life.
Sailing with the help of gentle NW winds, you’ll visit Koutsoupia Beach, St. Andreas Bay, and Blue Lake Bay, where the water’s clarity makes snorkeling a highlight. The included lunch features local wine and fresh salads, making it a relaxing way to enjoy Kefalonia’s maritime scenery. Dolfins and turtles are often seen swimming nearby, adding to the thrill.
Reviews mention the peaceful sailing, excellent crew, and the chance to unwind in beautiful surroundings. The itinerary’s emphasis on swimming and natural immersion makes this a great pick for active travelers or families. Be prepared for a full day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for lounging and adventure.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for water lovers who want a relaxed cruise with snorkeling, swimming, and scenic sailing.
3. Kefalonia: Discover Full Day Private Tour
This full-day private tour gives you a customizable, intimate look at Kefalonia’s top sights. For $440 per group, up to two people, it’s a flexible way to explore at your own pace. The day includes visits to Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, Myrtos Beach, Assos, and Fiscardo, giving a well-rounded view of the island’s geological, coastal, and village charms.
Your guide will take you into Drogarati for its impressive stalactites, then aboard a boat for Melissani Lake, where turquoise waters reflect sunlight in a magical display. The stunning Myrtos Beach offers breathtaking photo opportunities, and walking through the colorful streets of Fiscardo reveals the island’s vibrant local life. The tour also stops at the historic Assos Castle, perfect for panoramic views and photo ops.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the depth of insight provided. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience that combines natural beauty and cultural stops. The cost is reasonable for a full day with a dedicated guide, making it great value for those wanting a tailored experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a private, in-depth look at Kefalonia’s most iconic sights.
4. Kefalonia: The Caves Tour, visiting Melissani & Drogarati
At number four, this half-day tour focuses on Kefalonia’s stunning underground landscapes. It includes a boat trip in Melissani Lake and tickets for the caves, with convenient pickup from multiple locations. This tour really highlights the island’s geological wonders, making it perfect for nature lovers.
You’ll visit Drogarati Cave, known for its impressive formations, and then cruise across Melissani Lake, famous for its shimmering water and sunlight that streams through the cave’s opening. The tour combines these magical caves with a quick sightseeing stop, making it a balanced and manageable 4-hour experience. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the ease of pickup from key spots.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth experience of Kefalonia’s underground marvels but prefer a shorter time commitment. The inclusion of tickets and transportation makes it convenient and good value for anyone curious about the island’s geological side.
Bottom line: A compact, high-quality cave tour perfect for those wanting to see Kefalonia’s underground formations without a full-day commitment.
5. Private Tour: The Ultimate Kefalonia Experience
Number five on our list is a private, 5-hour tour designed to hit all the highlights, including St. Gerasimos Monastery, a top winery, Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, and the charming village of Agia Efimia. For $299 per person, this tour offers an efficient way to see Kefalonia’s best sights with personalized attention.
Your guide will take you to St. Gerasimos Monastery, where you can learn about local traditions, then visit a renowned Robola winery for tasting. The tour continues to Drogarati and Melissani, with stops at stunning viewpoints like the Myrtos Beach. The final stop at Agia Efimia gives you free time for wandering and lunch.
Guests love the mix of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences, especially noting the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guide. The value is excellent for a private tour, making it best suited for couples or small groups wanting an in-depth, flexible day.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, private experience that combines Kefalonia’s top sights with personalized service.
6. Private Walking Tour- Sami’s Old Villages & Geological Park
Finally, this 5-hour private walking tour offers a unique blend of natural geology and local village life. It’s perfect for travelers interested in geological formations like Karavomylos Lake and Zervati Cave-Lake as well as exploring traditional Kefalonian villages.
Your journey starts with a visit to Karavomylos Lake, a fascinating natural phenomenon. Then, after a scenic walk, you’ll see the Zervati Cave-Lake, a striking geological feature. You’ll also explore Old Vlachata, with its historic ruins, and walk the ancient roads connecting the villages. The tour wraps up with a visit to Sami’s old village, highlighting local architecture and history.
Reviewers commend the guide’s knowledge and the mix of outdoor exploration with cultural insight. It’s ideal for travelers who love walking, geology, and authentic village life. Because it’s a private tour, flexibility and personal focus are key benefits.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for geology enthusiasts and those wanting to see Sami’s traditional villages up close.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When picking your perfect Sami Cephalonia experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re short on time or on a cruise, the Argostoli Shore Excursion is a solid, efficient pick. For water lovers, the Ithaca sailing trip offers a full day of swimming and relaxing at sea. If you want a personalized experience with flexibility, the full-day private tour or the private walking experience provide in-depth exploration.
For those fascinated by Kefalonia’s underground caves and geological features, the Caves Tour delivers a compact yet immersive visit. Budget travelers will appreciate the value of group tours, while couples or families wanting exclusivity might prefer the private options.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date. Many tours require advance reservations, especially private ones, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Sami Cephalonia offers a rich variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether it’s exploring caves, sailing the Ionian, or enjoying local villages. If you love a mix of natural beauty and cultural insights, the Private Kefalonia Experience is hard to beat. For pure adventure and natural wonders, the Caves Tour and the sailing trips come highly recommended.
No matter which you choose, these experiences promise to deepen your appreciation for this beautiful island. Don’t forget to book early, especially if you’re traveling during the busy summer season. Kefalonia’s best tours will help you create unforgettable memories of Sami and beyond.