Argostoli Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

Greece has three main mobile providers: Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind. All offer good coverage across Kefalonia, including Argostoli.

Purchase and Coverage

SIM cards from official stores in Argostoli or kiosks.
Bring your passport for registration in Greece.
Data packages cost reasonably, a cost-effective way to stay connected. Consider Airalo for eSIM options.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Wi-Fi is widely available in Argostoli.

Access Points

Nearly all hotels and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi for guests.
Many cafes and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi for customers.
Some public areas may offer free Wi-Fi hotspots; consider Solis Wi-Fi for portable access.

Postal Services

ELTA (Hellenic Post) has an office in Argostoli.

Sending Mail

Use the office to send postcards to friends and family.
The service handles larger packages or souvenirs back home.
Confirm operating hours upon arrival.

Language Barriers & Translation

The official language is Greek. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and by younger generations.

Communication Aids

Google Translate: A beneficial app for quick, on-the-spot translation.
A small physical phrasebook also provides assistance.
Rosetta Stone for language learning prior to travel.

Important Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello: Yiasas (formal, plural) / Yiasou (informal, singular)
Goodbye: Andio
Please: Parakalo
Thank you: Efharisto

Helpful Expressions

Yes: Ne
No: Ohi
Excuse me/Sorry: Signomi
Cheers! (toasts): Yamas! (YAH-mas!)

Stay Connected

Keep in touch and navigate conversations with ease by understanding local communication methods and learning a few Greek phrases.

Business Hours & Schedules

Planning your day around local opening times makes your visit smooth.

Shops

Many operate on a split schedule (9 AM-2 PM, 5 PM-9 PM), closed Sunday afternoons.

Supermarkets

Generally open continuously from 8 AM - 9 PM or 10 PM; some may open Sunday mornings.

Restaurants/Tavernas

Lunch from 1 PM, dinner from 7 PM or 8 PM, often with a midday break.

Banking Hours & ATM Locations

ATMs are widely available in Argostoli, located along main streets, central squares, and at banks. They accept most international debit and credit cards.

Bank Operations

Banks open from 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, Monday to Friday.
Banks close on weekends and public holidays.
ATMs usually function 24/7 for cash withdrawals.

Religious & Public Holidays

Greece observes several religious and public holidays. Businesses, banks, and public services often close on these days.

Holiday Examples

New Year's Day, Epiphany, Independence Day, Labor Day.
Clean Monday, Good Friday & Easter Monday (Greek Orthodox).
Assumption of Mary, Ohi Day, Christmas (Dec 25-26).

Seasonal Closures & Schedules

Off-Season Reductions

Many tourist-oriented businesses close from late October/early November to April.
Ferry schedules significantly reduce during the low season.
Flight availability may also see reductions.

Winter Travel Notes

If traveling in winter, confirm all services in advance.
Expect cooler, wetter weather.
Windier conditions are possible, impacting outdoor plans.

Plan Ahead

Confirm operating hours, especially during holidays or off-season, to avoid inconvenience. For travel convenience, consider Priority Pass for lounge access and Compensair for flight delay support.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Embrace local customs for a richer experience.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Yiasas" (formal, to elders or groups) or "Yiasou" (informal, to peers or individuals) serves as a polite greeting.

Social Interactions

Handshakes are common upon meeting new people.
A polite greeting opens the door to warmer interactions.
Smiling and eye contact convey friendliness.

Appropriate Attire

Generally, casual wear finds acceptance for daily activities. However, modesty holds value when visiting religious sites.

Dress Guidelines

Dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered when entering churches and monasteries.
Beachwear belongs only on beaches or pool areas; change into street clothes in town or restaurants.
Carrying a scarf or sarong can be handy for covering up quickly.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Waiting for the host to seat you in a restaurant is common. It holds politeness to keep your hands above the table while dining.

Mealtime Customs

Table manners generally align with European norms.
Tipping is customary for good service, usually rounding up or 5-10%.
Leave tips in cash for direct worker benefit.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Generally acceptable to photograph public places, landscapes, and landmarks. Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children.

Visual Ethics

Be discreet and respectful in religious sites.
Some sites may prohibit flash photography or photography entirely; look for signs.
Avoid photographing people without their consent.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Discussion Aversions

Avoid discussing politics, especially contentious issues like the naming dispute with North Macedonia or relations with Turkey, unless the context is appropriate.
Do not comment on Greek financial matters or perpetuate stereotypes.
Avoid direct criticism of Greek culture or customs.

Interaction Caution

Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor, as Greeks generally avoid public displays of strong negative emotions.
Keep conversations private when discussing personal or sensitive subjects.
When in doubt, observe local behavior and follow suit.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+ Information

General Acceptance

Greece holds progressive views within the European Union.
Tourist areas like Argostoli welcome diverse visitors.
LGBTQ+ travelers generally find welcome, especially in more liberal areas.

Legal & Social Context

Same-sex civil partnerships are legal.
Public displays of affection are generally accepted, similar to other Western European countries.
Traditional values persist in some communities, but tourist areas are open.

Respectful Interactions

Engage thoughtfully in local culture, observe customs, and show consideration to forge positive connections.

Accessibility Information

Awareness for travelers with diverse needs.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges generally holds limitations in Greece, and Kefalonia is no exception.

Navigating the Island

Older town parts and historical sites are not designed for easy wheelchair access.
Uneven sidewalks, steps, and narrow passages are common.
Many traditional establishments present architectural barriers.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Newer hotels and some modern public buildings may present better accessibility with ramps and elevators.

Transport Options

Public buses typically do not equip for wheelchairs.
Private accessible taxis or rental cars remain an option if pre-arranged.
Specialized services can facilitate accessible vehicle hire.

Services for Sensory Impairments

Dedicated services specifically for travelers with visual or hearing impairments hold limitations.

Travel Guidance

It is advisable for travelers with these needs to travel with a companion.
Utilize specific travel agencies specializing in accessible travel.

Resources & Organizations

Search online for "accessible tourism Greece" or specific organizations that offer tailored tours or information.

Direct Confirmation

Always contact venues, hotels, and tour operators directly.
Confirm their specific accessibility features before booking.
Detailed questions ensure suitable arrangements for your visit.

Accessibility Notes

Careful planning and direct confirmation with providers are to a comfortable visit for all travelers.

Argostoli Travel Tips