Which Greek island are you thinking of heading to this summer? If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re torn between two beautiful Ionian Sea islands — and honestly, that’s an excellent dilemma to have.
Trying to decide between Kefalonia and Corfu for your Greek getaway? You really can’t go wrong. Both islands consistently rank among the most beautiful in Greece, but they offer very different holiday experiences. That’s where the choice gets interesting.
Whether you’re dreaming of stunning beaches, wandering through fishing villages surrounded by olive groves, tasting local olive oil, figuring out the best things to do, or weighing up the charm of Corfu’s Old Town against Kefalonia’s lush, mountainous landscapes, this guide will help you work out which island suits your travel style best.
Each island boasts picturesque villages, serves mouthwatering traditional dishes, and embodies the essence of a Mediterranean island paradise. So, if you’re seeking a travel guide to find the great place that suits your holiday style, you’re in the right spot.
Let’s explore the key factors that will help you decide on your ideal Greek island experience.
The islands of Corfu and Kefalonia have international airports linking them with major European cities, and many low-cost airlines serve both during the peak summer months. You can also use ferries from mainland Greece. There is also the option for domestic flights.
So, let’s pit Corfu vs. Kefalonia to determine which island is best for you.
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Corfu Vs. Kefalonia Greece
Corfu is the second-largest island in the Ionian group and an extremely popular choice. This spot suits everyone; you’ll find inclusive resorts catering to families, party people, couples, and groups. Of course, it goes without saying that Corfu is also wonderful and offers plenty to see and do.
The island’s capital is Corfu. The old town of Corfu offers a little bit of everything and is a great choice when the weather is cooler, so you can explore.
However, you’ve no doubt heard of Kavos. This is where people flock for serious partying; you won’t be disappointed if that’s what you’re after!
Reasons To Visit Corfu
Here are a few points to consider when deciding between Corfu and Kefalonia, both in the Ionian Sea:
- Corfu’s airport is slightly larger than the one on the island of Kefalonia, with more direct flights from European cities such as Zagreb, in Croatia. You can also get ferries from Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland, and the crossing typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Just remember to buy your ferry tickets early if you are traveling during high season.
- Corfu has excellent beaches, and if you’re visiting with children, the East Coast’s world-famous beaches offer calm, crystal-clear water.
- Buses connect all major towns and resorts, although hiring a car may be a better option for this popular destination. Be sure to visit Sidari, Loggas, and Agio Stefanos for the best beach towns.
- If natural beauty is what you’re looking for, you’ll be spoilt for choice on both islands, but Corfu has slightly higher rainfall outside of the summer months, so it is greener. It also has more lakes and rivers. You’ll find many hiking and trekking routes.
- Corfu Town is the ideal spot for international visitors seeking standard tourist facilities, including shops, restaurants, bars, and tattoo parlors.
- Corfu has top-name hotels to choose from. While Kefalonia is better known for smaller-scale and boutique-style hotels
- Corfu’s nightlife is fantastic, and Kavos is the jewel in the nightlife crown.
- In many ways, Corfu offers a holiday for everyone. Sidari is a regular beach town with facilities; Corfu Town has a rich history, dining, and shopping opportunities; Agios Gordios is the ideal family holiday spot; and Kavos is the nightlife centre.
- Both islands offer the possibility of boat trips to explore the picturesque bays.
- Each island has ancient ruins and archeological sites to explore, such as Ancient Sami on Kefalonia or the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio) and the New Fortress (Nea Frourio) on Corfu.
- Direct international flights to both Corfu and Kefalonia are highly seasonal, with the broadest choice available from late May through September. Outside peak summer, most travelers connect via Athens.
- Routes from specific European cities, including Zagreb, are typically seasonal charter or summer-only services and may not operate year-round.
Reasons Not To Visit Corfu
- The sandy beaches on the West Coast have choppier, albeit turquoise waters than the pebbly beaches on the East, which makes them not-so-ideal for familiess
- If we’re being picky, Corfu isn’t quite as beautiful as Kefalonia
- If you stay anywhere near Kavos, you won’t get much sleep as it’s deafening!
- Corfu hasn’t managed to keep much of its traditional character within resorts.
- Sea conditions on Corfu’s west coast can vary by day and wind conditions, particularly during meltemi-influenced periods in summer.
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Kefalonia Vs. Corfu
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands, and it’s a truly wonderful place to visit with a more authentic feel than Corfu. While it is a touristic island, it has managed to retain a more traditional charm and a slower pace of life.
As with Corfu, you can expect fantastic weather during the peak season, and it’s even pretty mild here during the winter. Kefalonia’s landscapes are mountainous and breathtaking, making it an excellent choice for photography fans.
Reasons To Visit Kefalonia
Choosing between Kefalonia and Corfu is made easier with this info:
- The best beaches in Kefalonia are hands-down much more beautiful than those in Corfu. You can also find a range of different types, from secluded coves with no one in sight to extensive beaches with facilities
- Antisamos is the famous beach where the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed
- Kefalonia is more mountainous than Corfu, offering many benefits, including the national park around Mount Ainos. The breathtaking views from there are worth the effort to get there.
- Kefalonia has many natural spots you can visit during your holiday, including Drogorati Cave, Melisanni Cave, Mount Ainos, and the Lighthouse of Saint Theodoroi.
- Both islands are part of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) habitat, and Kefalonia is one of the Ionian islands where nesting does occur, particularly around certain beaches.
- If you’re looking for a more chilled-out holiday with plenty of facilities, Kefalonia is a good choice.
- The capital, Argostoli, offers something for everyone and is ideal year-round. Lassi is a good spot for couples who want to chill on the beach. Skala is a family resort with large hotels, and Fiskardo is a classier affair.
Reasons Not To Visit Kefalonia
- Although Kefalonia has an international airport, it offers fewer flights from European cities compared to Corfu.
- Nightlife in Kefalonia is much quieter, which may or may not be an issue for you. However, Argostoli is a good place for a bit of nightlife with clubs and bars.
- Costs on Kefalonia and Corfu are broadly similar, though prices can vary by season, location, and accommodation type.
No matter your personal preference, both the Kefalonia and Corfu islands offer a fantastic base for a summer holiday, with delicious wine, crystal-clear waters, and water sports. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll have the best time and be surrounded by total and utter beauty at every turn.
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Kefalonia And Corfu FAQs
Which island is better for beaches, Kefalonia or Corfu?
Kefalonia is better known for dramatic, large-scale beaches with cliffs and turquoise water, while Corfu offers more sandy, shallow beaches that are easier for families and young children.
Is Corfu or Kefalonia cheaper?
Prices on both islands are broadly similar in high season, with Corfu offering more budget accommodation options and Kefalonia tending toward smaller hotels and villas. Costs vary more by location and timing than by island.
Which island is easier without a car?
Corfu is easier to explore without a car thanks to its extensive bus network and compact layout. Kefalonia is more spread out and strongly benefits from renting a car.
Do both islands have international airports?
Yes, both Corfu and Kefalonia have international airports with seasonal direct flights from many European cities, mainly operating from late spring through early autumn.
Which island has better nightlife?
Corfu has a wider nightlife scene, including party hubs like Kavos and lively bars in Corfu Town. Kefalonia’s nightlife is much quieter, centered mainly around Argostoli.
Can you see turtles in Kefalonia or Corfu?
Both islands are part of the loggerhead turtle habitat, but Kefalonia is one of the Ionian islands where nesting occurs on certain beaches during summer months.
We hope our guide to weighing up Corfu and Kefalonia helped you decide whether to head to Kefalonia or Corfu this summer.
Hi, we’ve been to both Kefalonia and Corfu but which would you recommend in October? Particulary toward mid/late; we appreciate it is toward the end of the season and hospilatily is closing for their winter. Many thanks.
For mid to late October, I’d recommend Kefalonia over Corfu. While both islands will be quieter and cooler as the season winds down, Kefalonia tends to have slightly milder weather and retains more of its authentic, local atmosphere. You’ll find fewer crowds, and many family-run tavernas and smaller businesses remain open longer into the season. With its stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and laid-back vibe, Kefalonia offers a relaxing experience, even if swimming might be a bit chilly by then. Overall, it’s a great spot for enjoying the island’s natural beauty as the season wraps up.
Thanks for the comparison. We planned to visit Santorini and Corfu in April 2025 but due to the earthquake activities in Santorini, we are looking for an alternative island. We are looking at Kefalonia but I wonder if it is similar to Corfu. Are there other islands that you would recommend?