Argostoli Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Savvy choices make your budget go further in Argostoli.

Cost-Free Activities

Walk across the pedestrian De Bosset Bridge.
Observe loggerhead sea turtles near fishing boats in Koutavos Lagoon.
Visit the Fanari Lighthouse for sunset views.
Stroll along Lithostroto street for ambiance.

Dining Deals

Look for "special of the day" boards at local tavernas.
Daily specials often offer fresh, seasonal, and good value meals.
Some establishments offer a complimentary dessert.
A small glass of tsipouro may accompany your meal.

Discount Opportunities

Kefalonia does not feature an universal tourist pass.
An ISIC card may grant museum or archaeological site discounts.
Senior citizens may find reduced entry fees at venues.
Explore Argostoli's streets and squares by foot.

Accommodation Strategies

Consider apartments or guesthouses with kitchenettes.
Self-cater meals by buying groceries from local supermarkets.
This approach effectively reduces food costs.

Time-Saving Tips

Plan your time well to get the most from Argostoli.

Attraction Timing

Argostoli’s attractions generally lack long lines.
Pre-booking for museums is not typically needed.
Consider pre-booking popular boat trips, especially in high season.
Visit caves (Melissani, Drogarati) early or late to avoid crowds.

Myrtos Beach Access

Myrtos Beach can get very busy midday in summer.
Visit in the morning for a quieter experience.
Late afternoon visits offer fewer people and good light.
Early or late visits make for a peaceful setting and better photos.

Transportation Choices

The Argostoli-Lixouri ferry offers a quick bay crossing.
Ferry transport shortens the journey to the Paliki region.
Group day trip attractions by geographical area.
This grouping minimizes driving and backtracking.

Pre-Booking Actions

Book accommodation well in advance.
Car rental reservations are important, especially for high season.
Specific boat tours benefit from early booking for guaranteed spots.
Early booking often results in better prices.

Local Insights

Gain connection with Argostoli through local knowledge.

Common Tourist Missteps

Do not underestimate the sun; use high SPF, wear hats, drink water.
Public transport has limited flexibility; a rental car offers more freedom.
Carry cash for small businesses, local markets, and remote tavernas.
Note siesta hours (2 PM - 5 PM) for smaller shops.

Local Customs

"Siga Siga" (Slowly, slowly) embodies the relaxed pace.
A simple "Yiasas" or "Kalimera" is appreciated.
Greeks are known for their hospitality (filoxenia).
Welcome invitations for coffee or treats.

Unofficial Rules

Do not flush toilet paper in many older establishments.
Use the bin provided next to the toilet.
Avoid snapping fingers at service staff; it is impolite.
An open palm facing forward ("moutza") is highly offensive.

Impress Local Phrases

Learn "Parakalo" (please/you're welcome).
Learn "Signomi" (excuse me/sorry).
Learn "Yamas!" (cheers!).
Even imperfect Greek attempts often result in warmer reception.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Solo Traveler Tips

Kefalonia is very safe for solo travelers.
Inform someone of your whereabouts, especially in remote areas.
Meet people at beach bars, cafes, or guesthouses.
Organized boat trips offer social opportunities.

Family-Friendly Guidance

Choose beaches with shallow, calm waters like Makris Gialos.
Self-catering apartments or villas offer meal flexibility.
Boat trips (glass-bottom, turtle spotting) are popular with children.
Pack travel-sized activities to keep children entertained.

Group Logistics

For groups, consider renting a spacious villa.
Multiple rental cars or a minibus are practical for group transport.
Make restaurant reservations for larger groups, especially in high season.
Ensures seating availability for evening dining.

Accessibility Notes

Pre-planning is important for accessibility needs.
Contact hotels and attractions directly to confirm accessibility.
Specialized accessible travel agencies can arrange customized trips.
(See Section 11.4 for more detail, if available).

Note on Transportation

For longer distances, the public KTEL bus system is more economical than taxis. Plan around their schedules to save money. Consider renting a car only for days with extensive island exploration to reach remote areas. This saves daily rental costs and parking fees.

Explore and Discover

Find the hidden gems of Argostoli and Kefalonia.

Language Learning

Utilize platforms like Babbel for structured Modern Greek lessons. Small language efforts greatly enrich travel experiences. Start learning with Babbel.

Digital Security

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN for secure internet browsing while traveling. Get NordVPN for secure connections.

Travel Organization

Explore travel organization products from Eagle Creek to keep your belongings tidy. Shop Eagle Creek gear.

Additional Notes

ISIC Card Use

Kefalonia lacks an island-wide tourist pass.
An International Student Identity Card (ISIC) may provide museum discounts.
Senior citizens may also find reduced entry fees at certain sites.

Online Content

Search for travel podcasts or YouTube channels on the Ionian Islands.
"Captain Corelli's Mandolin" offers a visual sense of the island.
Documentaries about Greek history provide context.

Tip for Public Transport

While public KTEL buses are cost-effective for longer distances, their schedules offer limited flexibility for exploring Kefalonia's hidden spots. A rental car offers greater freedom.

Argostoli Travel Hacks