Public Transportation: Argostoli

KTEL Bus System

KTEL Kefalonia is the main public transport provider on the island. Their system consists exclusively of bus services, connecting Argostoli to other major towns, villages, and popular beaches across Kefalonia. Argostoli itself is compact and largely walkable, so local bus routes within the town center are limited. The buses are generally comfortable and air-conditioned.

The main bus station (KTEL) in Argostoli is located on Leoforos Antipatron, near the Koutavos Lagoon. This station serves as the central departure and arrival point for nearly all inter-town bus routes on the island.

Routes from Argostoli

Sami: On the east coast, near Melissani and Drogarati Caves.
Poros: A port town in the southeast.
Fiscardo: The picturesque village on the northern tip.
Lixouri: On the Paliki peninsula, accessible by ferry.

Ticketing

Tickets are typically purchased directly from the bus driver upon boarding. Fares are fixed based on journey distance.

Hours & Frequency

Service frequency varies significantly by season and route. High season has the most frequent services. Check the KTEL Kefalonia website for schedules.

Accessibility

Public buses may not be fully accessible for travelers with mobility challenges. Older buses have steps; no dedicated ramps or lifts.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Before You Go

Always check schedules in advance online or at the Argostoli bus station. Do not rely on old printed schedules.
Arrive early at the bus stop. Buses may not always run exactly on time, or may leave slightly early if full.
Confirm your destination with the driver if you are unsure about the bus route.

Cost & Comfort

KTEL Kefalonia does not generally offer day passes or multi-journey tickets. Each ride is a separate transaction.
Buses are generally comfortable and air-conditioned, especially the intercity coaches.
For long journeys to mainland Greece, KTEL bus services are efficient and comfortable.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Dark grey or silver cars with a "TAXI" sign on the roof. They have a meter and display their license number.

Hailing

Hailing on the street, taxi stands (main square, waterfront), or by phone. Hotels can arrange.

Fares & Payment

Fares are metered. Agree on price for longer journeys. Cash is preferred. Argostoli to Airport: €15-€25.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber or Bolt are not widely available in Kefalonia. Rely on traditional taxis.

Rental Options

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Kefalonia’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid national driving license (EU citizens). Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Age: At least 21 years old (sometimes 23 or 25 for certain car types); held license for at least one year.
Credit Card: A credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
Companies: Major international (Hertz, Avis) and local agencies available in Argostoli and at the airport.

Other Rentals & Tips

Motorcycle & Scooter: Popular for nimble island navigation. Helmets are a legal requirement.
Bicycle: Available from dedicated shops for town exploration or flatter coastal paths. No formal sharing programs.
Quad Bikes (ATVs): Available for off-road exploration. Check licensing carefully.
Booking: Highly recommended to book in advance, especially during high season, for availability and better rates.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Side: Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants.
Drink Driving: Strict laws with low blood alcohol limits. Avoid driving after consuming alcohol.

Speed Limits: 50 km/h in urban, 90 km/h on open roads.
Road Conditions: Main roads are good. Smaller roads can be narrow, winding, steep, or unpaved.
Parking: Challenging in town center, especially peak hours. Paid parking along waterfront.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Argostoli is pedestrian-friendly. Explore Lithostroto Street, the Waterfront Promenade, and the De Bosset Bridge.

Walking Tours

Argostoli is suited for self-guided walks. Maps are available from tourist offices. Create your own route of historical sites and viewpoints.

Cycling Safety

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cycling on main roads can be challenging. Quieter roads around Koutavos Lagoon or coastal paths are safer. Wear a Helmet.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Argostoli offers some unique ways to explore the island, often centered around its maritime setting.

Tour Buses & Water Taxis

Island Excursions: Local tour operators offer organized bus tours to island highlights like Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, Fiscardo.
Argostoli-Lixouri Ferry: A frequent car and passenger ferry connects Argostoli to the Paliki peninsula.
Excursion Boats: From Argostoli’s harbor, small boats offer trips to secluded beaches or neighboring islands (Zakynthos, Ithaca).
No Hop-on-Hop-off: Argostoli does not have a traditional hop-on-hop-off bus service.

Accessibility Services & Other Transport

Accessibility: General accessibility infrastructure in Kefalonia is limited. Confirm with hotels for accessible rooms.
Hiring a car or arranging private accessible taxis/transfers offers more flexibility for mobility challenges.
Unique Local Transport: Argostoli does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique mechanized local transport systems.
Search for specialized accessible tourism providers if specific accommodations are needed.

Argostoli Exploration Options

Walkable Town

Argostoli's compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, especially central areas like Lithostroto.

Enjoy leisurely strolls.

Bus Connectivity

KTEL buses offer economical travel to major towns and popular beaches across the island.

Connect throughout Kefalonia.

Rental Freedom

Car, scooter, or quad bike rentals give flexibility to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Explore at leisure.

Maritime Exploration

Ferry Access

Frequent ferry connects Argostoli to Lixouri for quick access to the Paliki peninsula.
Excursion boats offer trips to secluded beaches like White Rocks Beach.
Explore neighboring islands like Zakynthos or Ithaca by boat.

Guided Tours

Organized bus tours visit island highlights like caves and popular beaches.
These tours simplify logistics and often give commentary for understanding.
Range from shared group tours to private charters for a personalized experience.

Safety Considerations for Transport

Taxis: Generally safe, use licensed taxis with meters. Avoid unmarked cars.
For solo travelers, share taxi details with someone for added safety.
Scooter/Motorcycle: Helmets are a legal requirement and should always be worn.
Experience with two-wheelers is advised due to winding and challenging roads.

Driving: Be cautious on narrow, winding roads, especially those without shoulders.
Cycling: Limited dedicated lanes; wear a helmet and be aware of traffic on main roads.
Walking: Generally safe, but avoid very remote or unlit paths at night.
Public Transport: Buses may not be fully accessible for mobility challenges.

Getting Around Argostoli

Whether by foot, bus, rental vehicle, or sea, Argostoli and Kefalonia have diverse transport options to suit various travel styles.

Plan your movements according to your interests and comfort level to make the most of your island adventure.

Public Transportation