Kefalonia offers some of Greece’s most striking landscapes—crystal-clear waters, dramatic caves, and charming villages—that truly shine during full-day tours. The island’s varied scenery is best appreciated when you’re out for a day, exploring hidden beaches, ancient caves, or sailing along its rugged coast. We particularly love the full-day boat cruise from Argostoli, which combines swimming, snorkeling, and a homemade Greek lunch on the water, offering a relaxed yet active way to see Kefalonia. For those wanting a broader overview of the island’s highlights—including its famous beaches, caves, and a wine tasting—the full-day island tour with a winery visit is hard to beat. Both options give a taste of Kefalonia’s natural beauty and local flavors, but they cater to different tastes and travel styles.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the two top-rated full-day tours available on Kefalonia. Whether you’re drawn to sailing adventures or sightseeing and wine tasting, each offers a memorable experience that showcases the best of this Greek island.
1. Argostoli: Full-Day Traditional Boat Cruise with Lunch
At number one on our list is the Argostoli: Full-Day Traditional Boat Cruise with Lunch, which has earned a 4.8/5 rating from over 410 reviews. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Kefalonia’s coastline from the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. The boat departs from Dreamy Cruises Kefalonia and takes you to White Rocks Beach for a dip in its famously clear waters. The highlight for many is visiting the tiny island of Vardiani, also called Rabbit Island, which offers a peaceful escape.
What sets this cruise apart is the homemade Greek lunch served onboard, featuring fresh salad, fruit, and local wine—a genuine taste of Kefalonian hospitality. The itinerary includes multiple stops at beaches and islands, with chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and monk seals, which makes it an appealing choice for nature lovers. For a natural spa experience, you can also try the clay at Xi Beach, known for its skin-rejuvenating properties.
Guests rave about the friendly crew, the unlimited local wine, and the fun activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. The boat’s accessibility and the crew’s attentive service make this trip suitable for a wide range of travelers, especially families and couples seeking a laid-back day on the water.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and fun in a friendly setting, all for about $68 per person. It’s ideal for those wanting a flexible, active day with good food and great company.
2. Kefalonia: Full-Day Island Tour with Winery Visit
Coming in at number two is the Kefalonia: Full-Day Island Tour with Winery Visit, rated 5/5 from 12 reviews. A more comprehensive experience, this tour offers a full day exploring Kefalonia’s most iconic sights, combined with a stop at a Robola winery for tasting. It’s the best pick for travelers interested in a mix of natural scenery, cultural sights, and local wine.
The tour begins with a visit to the 150-million-year-old Drogarati Cave, where stalactites hang from the ceiling. Later, you’ll glide across Melissani Lake, a stunning underground lagoon with shimmering blue waters. The trip continues to Antisamos Beach for a relaxing swim, and then on to the picturesque villages of Fiskardo and Asos, where charming waterfront cafes and colorful houses await. The highlight for many is the winery visit, where you can sample Robola wine—the island’s famous dry white—and learn about local wine-making traditions.
This tour’s advantage is its variety—covering caves, lakes, beaches, and villages in one day. The knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging, and you can customize the pace, especially if you prefer more time at certain spots. The price reflects the inclusive nature of the trip, at around $209 per person, making it a good value for those wanting a broad overview.
Guests love the driver’s friendly demeanor and the ability to see Kefalonia’s highlights comfortably, even in less-than-perfect weather. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom line: If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and wine tasting, this trip is a top choice—especially for those ready to explore a little more deeply.
How to Choose Between These Kefalonia Full-Day Tours
When deciding between the boat cruise and the island tour with wine tasting, consider your interests and fitness level. If you love being on the water, swimming, and enjoying a relaxed day with plenty of beach time, the cruise offers a laid-back, fun experience with great food. On the other hand, if you prefer sightseeing, exploring caves and villages, and sampling local wine, the comprehensive island tour is more suited for you.
Price can also be a factor—while the cruise is more budget-friendly at around $68, the island tour’s $209 provides a wider variety of sights and experiences. Think about how much time you want to spend on each activity and whether you prefer a more active or leisurely pace. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred departure times.
In summary, Kefalonia has a range of full-day options that fit different styles of travel. For a casual day on the water with good food, the Argostoli boat cruise is hard to beat. For those eager to explore multiple sights and enjoy wine tasting, the full-day island tour offers a well-rounded experience. Both provide a fantastic way to see the best of Kefalonia, so pick what suits your mood and interests—and don’t forget to reserve ahead to ensure you get your preferred date.
Enjoy your adventure on this stunning island, and happy travels!
