Cephalonia isn’t just about stunning beaches and rugged landscapes — it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers. The island offers a mix of culinary adventures, from serene boat trips around hidden bays to walking through lively streets sampling local dishes. We particularly love the Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca for their combination of picture-perfect beaches and relaxed dining on board, and the Food Tour Kefalonia for a deep dive into traditional Argostoli cuisine. Both experiences highlight the island’s authentic flavors and scenic beauty, making them perfect choices depending on your interests.
Whether you prefer a leisurely boat cruise with snorkeling and sunbathing or a shorter, more immersive food tasting walk, Cephalonia has something to satisfy your appetite. The list below introduces two of the best food-related tours on the island, each offering unique ways to enjoy local flavors and scenery.
1. Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca – swimming, snorkeling food and more !
Enjoy a relaxing yacht cruise around Ithaca that combines stunning views with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and indulge in a traditional Greek lunch. This tour is perfect if you want a more intimate experience away from large groups, with small-party comfort and personalized service. It lasts around 8 hours, giving you ample time to explore secluded beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear waters that many consider among the best in Greece.
The tour kicks off at Gidaki Beach, often called “paradise on earth,” where the turquoise waters and lush scenery make it hard to leave. You’ll snorkel in waters renowned for their clarity, then hop to Skinos Bay to enjoy a delicious onboard lunch paired with local wine and drinks. The highlight here is the combination of scenic sailing, snorkeling gear, and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to couples, families, or friends wanting a memorable day on the water.
Guests consistently praise the staff, with reviews mentioning how the crew makes everyone feel special and takes care of all the details. One reviewer summed it up: “Jumping into gin-clear water in bays only accessible by boat, eating lovely food and drinking wine — a total highlight.” The value is evident in the included lunch, drinks, and access to some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, active day with swimming, snorkeling, and excellent food in a small-group setting. If you love water-based adventures paired with authentic Greek cuisine, this cruise delivers.
2. Food Tour Kefalonia
For those who prefer to stay on land but still want a true taste of Cephalonia’s local flavors, this Food Tour Kefalonia offers an intimate and delicious journey through Argostoli. Lasting about 2 to 2.5 hours, it’s quick enough to fit into a busy schedule but packed with memorable bites and insights into the island’s culinary tradition.
The tour begins with a walk over the De Bosset Bridge, the longest stone bridge in Europe, where you learn about its history. From there, you’ll explore the pedestrian streets of Lithostroto, passing small shops, cafes, and the famous Bell’s Square. The tour then continues through Argostoli, with stops at local eateries offering tastings of cheeses, fried cod, and homemade dishes that most visitors never get to try on their own.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on family-run places and authentic recipes, plus the opportunity to sample four wines along the way. The guide provides personal attention, and dietary restrictions are accommodated. Reviewers rave about the food: “We savored delicious cheeses, deep-fried battered cod, and local wine,” says one happy guest. Many highlight the high quality of the food and the friendly, knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers with limited time, this private tour offers authentic tastings, local stories, and a good dose of Cephalonia’s culinary soul in just a few hours.
How to Choose Between These Tours
If your idea of a perfect day involves sun, sea, and snorkeling, the Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca is your best bet. It combines scenic sailing with swimming and a relaxed onboard meal, making it ideal for couples or families seeking a memorable water adventure. For those more interested in on-land cultural exploration with tastings, the Food Tour Kefalonia offers a flavorful walk through Argostoli’s streets and eateries, perfect for a short but immersive experience.
Consider your budget — the boat cruise costs around $174.16 per person, offering a full day of activities, while the food tour is a more budget-friendly option at about $69.52 per person. Also, think about your preferred pace: if you love being on the water, the cruise is unbeatable; if you’d rather explore on foot with a focus on local dishes, the shorter food tour fits perfectly.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, as both tours tend to fill up quickly. Check availability and consider combining a land-based food walk with a boat trip if your schedule allows, for a comprehensive Cephalonia experience.
Final Thoughts
Cephalonia offers a wonderful range of food experiences, from scenic yacht cruises with snorkeling and sunbathing to intimate food walks through lively streets. The Luxury Day Cruises to Ithaca provide an exceptional blend of scenery and relaxation, while the Food Tour Kefalonia introduces you to local flavors and traditions in a quick, friendly walk.
For travelers seeking adventure and scenery, the cruise is a standout choice. If you prefer a cultural deep dive with authentic tastes, then the food tour is perfect. Either way, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable ways to enjoy Cephalonia’s food and scenery.
