Exploring Kefalonia on a day trip from Zakynthos is a popular way to see some of the Ionian’s most famous sights without the fuss of overnight stays. This full-day tour, organized by Smart Holidays Zakynthos, offers a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the highlights: dramatic caves, stunning beaches, charming villages, and scenic views that make for fantastic photo ops. The trip lasts about 12 hours, with comfortable pick-up and drop-off from your Zakynthos accommodation, making it a hassle-free way to experience this larger neighbor island.
Two things I particularly like about this tour are its blend of natural beauty and convenience. First, the inclusion of ferry transportation adds an extra element of adventure, giving you a taste of island-hopping without needing to arrange it yourself. Second, the guides’ local knowledge shines through in their commentary, making the experience richer and more engaging. However, a potential consideration is the long bus ride—you’ll spend a fair amount of time traveling, which might be tiring if you prefer more relaxed, less structured days.
This tour offers excellent value—at $112 per person, it includes ferry tickets, guided visits to caves, and scenic stops. But keep in mind, entry tickets to the caves are separate (about 13 EUR per person), so budget accordingly if you want to explore inside. For those who enjoy a full-day adventure packed with diverse sights, this trip balances convenience and authentic experiences nicely. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and a day spent mostly on the move.
Key points / Takeaways
- Seamless logistics: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off make this a very convenient way to explore Kefalonia without the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transport.
- Ferry experience: Traveling by ferry adds a fun, scenic element to the day, giving you a quick taste of island-hopping.
- Natural wonders: Drogarati and Melissani Caves are the main highlights, offering breathtaking formations and a magical underground lake experience.
- Beautiful beaches and villages: Myrtos Beach’s stunning vistas and the peaceful charm of Agia Efimia provide relaxing breaks and photo opportunities.
- Expert guides: Tour guides like Pavlos are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly approach, making the day more enjoyable.
- Limited free time: While the itinerary packs a lot in, some reviewers mentioned spending considerable time on the bus, and only limited time at each stop.
Diving into the Details: What the Day Actually Looks Like
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zakinthos.
Starting the Day: Convenience from the Get-Go
Your day begins with pickup from your Zakynthos accommodation—Smart Holidays offers 15 pickup points, including popular hotels and local spots like the Botanic Garden or Melon Bar. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in a less central part of Zakynthos. Be sure to specify your location in advance, and you’ll receive your pickup time the night before, keeping things simple. The tour includes roundtrip ferry tickets, so no need to worry about arranging that yourself.
Once picked up, you’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride to Skinari, the port from where the ferry departs around 9:45 AM. The 85-minute ferry crossing is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the sea and a chance to relax before arriving in Kefalonia.
Arriving at Kefalonia: First Impressions
After disembarking at Pessada Port, you’ll pass by the St. Gerasimos Monastery, a site of religious and cultural significance, before heading into the island’s natural wonders. The first stop, Drogarati Cave, is a highlight for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The guided visit (about 30 minutes) is engaging and informative, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Some reviews mention the cave’s beauty, with Neil commenting on the “interesting and helpful information” provided by guides like Pavlos, who are adept at making the visit memorable.
Melissani Lake: A Magical Underground Experience
Next, you’ll visit Melissani Cave, where a boat cruise takes you across a shimmering underground lake. The sunlight filtering through the opening creates a magical effect, with the water glowing in shades of blue. This is a highlight for many, with travelers describing it as “unforgettable” and “simply magical.” The guided tour here lasts about 30 minutes, giving you enough time to soak in the ethereal scenery without feeling rushed.
Charming Coastal Village: A Peaceful Lunch Spot
Driving south, the tour stops in Agia Efimia, a tranquil seaside village. Many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace here, enjoying a leisurely lunch with views of the sea. The approximately 50-minute break allows for some wandering and taking photos, making it a perfect downtime to digest all the sights.
The Star of the Trip: Myrtos Beach
The tour’s pièce de résistance is Myrtos Beach, often hailed as one of Greece’s most photogenic beaches. Its dramatic cliffs and bright blue waters make for stunning photos, and if weather permits, you might even take a quick swim. Several reviews mention how breathtaking the views are—Mikko called it “one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.” The stop here lasts about 45 minutes, enough to snap some shots, relax in the sun, or dip your toes in the water.
Returning to Zakynthos: A Scenic Farewell
After a full day of exploration, you’ll take the ferry back to Pessada, arriving around 8:00-9:00 PM for drop-off at your hotel. Though the day is long, many reviewers like Steve appreciated the smooth organization and the chance to see Kefalonia’s key sights without the hassle of a DIY trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Kefalonia without staying overnight. It’s perfect if you enjoy structured days, scenic natural sights, and guided commentary. If you’re comfortable with bus rides and don’t mind a packed schedule, you’ll find this a good value—especially considering the ferry rides and guided tours are included.
It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to snap great photos at iconic spots like Myrtos Beach, or who are curious about caves and underground lakes. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and light adventure will find this trip rewarding.
However, if you prefer a slow-paced day with more free time or are traveling with very young children or mobility issues, this might feel a bit busy. The caves involve some walking, and the long bus ride might be tiring for some.
Price and Value: What You’re Getting for $112
At $112, this tour offers impressive value considering it includes transportation, ferry tickets, and guided visits. Entrance fees for the caves are extra (around 13 EUR), but most find the overall experience worth the additional cost. The convenience of door-to-door pickup, combined with the chance to see multiple highlights in one day, makes it a practical choice for travelers short on time.
The comprehensive itinerary ensures you see the main attractions, and many reviews mention how well-organized and smooth the whole process is—praising guides like Pavlos for their professionalism and friendliness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 8:00-9:00 PM. - What is included in the price?
Door-to-door transportation, ferry tickets, guided visits to Drogarati and Melissani caves, and scenic stops. - Are entry tickets to the caves included?
No, entry tickets (about 13 EUR per person) are paid separately on site. - Is food included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but a stop in Agia Efimia offers a chance to buy a meal with a view. - What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, snacks, water, and a charged smartphone. - Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 1 year and those able to handle some walking and bus rides. Not suitable for very elderly or very young babies. - Can I cancel?
Yes, with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. - Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Greek. - What if I have mobility issues?
Some walking is involved, especially in caves and at the beach, so consider this before booking. - How do I get my pickup time?
You’ll receive your pickup details the night before your tour.
To sum it up, this full-day Kefalonia tour from Zakynthos hits many of the best sights with minimal fuss—perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, guided exploration. You’ll love the scenic ferry ride, the stunning photo opportunities at Myrtos Beach, and the fascinating caves. It’s a well-organized trip that balances natural beauty, cultural spots, and relaxed breaks, making it a worthwhile addition to your Greek island adventure.
If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day with friendly guides and unforgettable scenery, this tour is a solid choice. Just keep in mind the long day and limited free time—it’s a full-on experience, but one that covers a lot of ground in a single day.