MileHacker Logo
Air Travel

Air Travel

Greece

Airport & Flight Options

Kefalonia International Airport EFL

Also known as Anna Pollatou Airport, EFL is the island's only airport. It is approximately 8 km south of Argostoli.

Airport Facilities

  • Car rental desks (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, local agencies).
  • A small cafe offering snacks and drinks.
  • A duty-free shop in the departure lounge.

Airlines & Routes

Aegean Airlines and Sky Express operate regular domestic flights mainly from Athens. International flights are seasonal.

Seasonal & Direct Flights

  • International Flights (Seasonal): Late April/early May to late October.
  • Airlines include British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, Jet2, Vueling, Condor, Austrian Airlines, Transavia.
  • No direct flights from North America or Asia. Connect via Athens or major European cities.

Flight Availability

Direct international flights operate predominantly during the tourism peak (late April/early May through late October).

Price Fluctuations

Prices are highest in July and August. Shoulder seasons (May, June, September) often offer better value.

Transfer Options

From EFL to Argostoli: taxi (15-20 min, €15-€25), public bus (KTEL), car rental, private transfer.

Flight Booking & Services

Booking Advice

  • Booking flights well in advance, especially for high season, secures better rates.
  • Explore flight deals via Dollar Flight Club.
  • Use flight search engines like Skyscanner for options.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available at Kefalonia International Airport.

Arrival & Departure

  • Upon arrival, proceed through standard immigration control.
  • ATMs are available at the airport for cash withdrawals.
  • Pre-booked private transfers are convenient for groups or late arrivals.
  • Renting a car at the airport is a popular choice for island exploration.

Land Transportation

Bus Services KTEL

KTEL Kefalonia operates the island's intercity bus services. The main station in Argostoli connects to other towns and villages. It is an economical way to travel.

Mainland Connections

Take a ferry from Sami or Argostoli to mainland ports (Patras, Killini), then connect to KTEL bus services for Athens and other cities.

Train Services

Kefalonia has no train services. The island's public transportation relies exclusively on buses and ferries.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Car Rental Requirements

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Kefalonia’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems. Many rental companies are available.

What You Need

  • Driving License: Valid national license for EU citizens. Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Age & Experience: Drivers typically need to be at least 21 years old and have held their license for one year. Surcharges may apply for under 25.
  • Credit Card: A credit card in the main driver’s name is needed for a security deposit.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads are generally paved and in good condition. Smaller roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved. Drive with caution.

Driving Safely

  • Be prepared for steep inclines and sharp turns, especially on mountain roads.
  • Driving on winding mountain roads needs caution. Many roads lack shoulders.
  • Drink-driving laws are strict; avoid driving after consuming alcohol.

Booking & Companies

Booking your rental car in advance is highly recommended, especially during high season (July-August).

Rental Options

  • Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) and local agencies are available.
  • Scooters and motorcycles are popular for individual travelers or couples. Helmets are a legal requirement.
  • Bicycle rentals are suitable for exploring the town itself or coastal paths.

Car Rental Resources

Compare options and book in advance for better rates and availability.

Trusted Providers

  • Local companies (e.g., Greekstones, Rentcarkefalonia, CBR Car Rental) often offer competitive rates.
  • Consider DiscoverCars.com for comparing car rental options.
  • Using GPS (like Google Maps) is highly recommended for navigation.

Driving Safety Alerts

  • Local driving habits can be aggressive; drivers may overtake in unexpected places.
  • Be aware of scooters and motorcycles, common on the roads.
  • GPS might suggest very narrow or less maintained roads; exercise judgment.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads.
  • Parking in Argostoli town center can be challenging during peak hours. Paid parking is available.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Ports

Argostoli’s natural harbor makes it a regular port of call for ferries and cruise ships, offering a different way to arrive on the island.

Ferry Connections

  • Argostoli to Lixouri Ferry: Frequent local ferry across the bay (20-30 minutes).
  • Mainland Greece Ferries: Direct services from Argostoli to Killini (Peloponnese). More frequent from Sami to Patras and Killini.
  • Other Ionian Islands: Limited connections from Argostoli to Ithaca and Zakynthos. More from Sami or Pessada.

Cruise & Port Procedures

Argostoli is a popular destination for cruise ships. Passengers disembark directly onto the waterfront promenade.

Arrival Process

  • Cruise Port: Brings a lively atmosphere to the harbor on cruise ship days.
  • Immigration Procedures: Standard Schengen Area immigration for international cruise arrivals.
  • Land Connections: Port is centrally located; walking distance to taxis, bus stops, and car rental agencies.

Sea Access

Argostoli is a major port, welcoming various ferries and cruise ships.

No River Transport

Kefalonia has no navigable rivers for public transportation.

Departure Information

No specific exit fees or taxes are charged separately upon departure. These are included in your ticket price.

Departure Procedures

Flights from EFL

For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually enough.

Airport Departure

  • Ample time for check-in and security screening.
  • Duty-free shop for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Cafe for snacks and drinks before your flight.

Ferry Departures

If departing by ferry, especially with a vehicle, arrive at the port at least 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure.

Port Departure

  • Time for vehicle boarding and ticket checks.
  • For passenger-only ferries, 15-30 minutes before departure is often enough.
  • The port of Argostoli has ticketing offices and waiting areas, with cafes and shops nearby.

Airport & Station Facilities

Check-in Desks

Kefalonia International Airport (EFL) offers check-in desks for departing travelers.

Security Checkpoints

Standard security checkpoints are in place before accessing the departure lounge.

Departure Lounge

A departure lounge with amenities for waiting passengers.

Departure Reminder

Plan your departure time well in advance, especially during peak season, to account for check-in and security processes.