The best way to explore Kefalonia is to rent a car. The island is large — the drive from Argostoli to Fiskardo takes nearly an hour — and the best beaches and villages are not on bus routes. Without a car, you're limited to what's within walking distance of your hotel or what organised tours will take you to. With a car, the whole island opens up.
Here's what to know before you book.
Where to Pick Up
Kefalonia Airport (EFL) is the most convenient pickup point for most visitors. Almost all car hire companies offer free pickup and drop-off at the airport — either with an office in the building or a representative waiting at arrivals. This avoids the €40-50 taxi fare to your accommodation.
Argostoli town centre has several rental offices if you're arriving by ferry to Sami or Poros and making your way to the capital first.
Resort delivery: Many companies deliver to accommodation — useful if you're staying in Skala or Fiskardo. Delivery fees range from €20-40 each way, though some companies offer free delivery within the same resort as their branch.
Which Companies
Both international (Hertz, Avis, Sixt) and local companies operate on the island. Local car rental companies are usually cheaper and more flexible than international ones.
Among local companies, Greekstones is consistently recommended by experienced Kefalonia visitors for reliability, friendly service and no-hassle return. Pefanis is another established local option. Avoid Green Motion — a franchise with a poor reputation on the island.
What Size Car
An economy or compact car with manual gearbox is cheaper and easier to park in villages. Aim for 1.2L+ for Kefalonia's hills. The mountain roads are manageable but do require a car with reasonable power on inclines. SUVs are not necessary for paved roads, but useful if you want to explore unmade tracks to remote beaches.
Prices
Average car rental costs around €48 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €17 per day. Pre-book for June-September to secure good rates — for July-August, lock in 2-3 months ahead. May, June and September offer lower rates with good weather.
Insurance
Read the insurance carefully. Most rentals include basic collision damage waiver but with a significant excess (€500-€1,500). Check whether your credit card provides rental car insurance — many do. Standalone excess insurance is available from providers like WorldwideInsure and is often cheaper than the company's own excess waiver.
Driving in Kefalonia
Roads outside Argostoli are generally quiet. Almost all roads with steep drops have barriers, and outside villages they are usually wide enough for two cars to pass. August is the exception — when Athenians are on holiday, traffic picks up. The mountain road to Fiskardo via Assos requires attention at its narrower points.
Free parking is available at Argostoli harbour, the Sami waterfront and Myrtos Beach.
Can You Take It to Ithaca?
Most companies allow cars to be taken to Ithaca on the ferry — always ask in advance. Greekstones and Pefanis specifically confirm they allow it. Technically, no hire car is insured on a ferry, but in practice this is the accepted way to island-hop with a rental.
Not sure which car or which company suits your itinerary? Ask Memas and we'll point you in the right direction.
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