Greece has always been a popular summer destination for travelers seeking relaxation, parties, and stunning beaches and islands. Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Crete etc, are known as the best places to spend your summer due to their natural beauty, cultural significance, and thriving arts scene. Meanwhile, Mykonos is famous for its all-night party scene, competing with club paradise Ibiza since the 60s.
But this year, there’s a new kid on the block that tops them all. Greece is home to 6,000 islands, with only 227 being inhabited. This number fluctuates as most people live on the islands during the spring and summer months. Despite not being as cold as New York, UK, or Berlin, the winds in Greece can get intense, and only locals usually stay throughout the year.
According to a recent survey by UK consumer website Which? Kefalonia is the most popular vacation spot in Greece, as voted by over 1,000 respondents. Surprisingly, Mykonos, which was once the go-to island for travelers, came in last. This is mainly due to its overcrowding during the high-peak season and the intense partying, which can have negative effects on the island’s resources and inhabitants.
Kefalonia might not be a household name, but it’s Greece’s largest Ionian island and the most diverse. It’s rocky, mountainous, it has magnificent beaches and lush landscapes, and it’s famous for its good wine before it became a tourist destination. Now, its previously hard-to-reach beaches are becoming popular spots that overshadow even places like Mykonos and Santorini.
What sets Kefalonia apart is its diversity. It’s the biggest island, so there’s plenty of space to explore, with different attractions to suit various travelers’ preferences. You can take a stroll in the capital city, Argostoli, hike up the highest peak, Mt. Ainos, for four hours one way, then cool off at Myrtos Beach while admiring the Mediterranean and surrounding peaks.
The island’s tranquility is another significant drawcard. Unlike its neighboring islands, Kefalonia maintains its laid-back European vibe, making it an excellent place to relax. It’s less traveled than other islands, so it’s still possible to enjoy the original atmosphere that travelers seek.
Another highlight of Kefalonia is its stunning blue waters. From its beaches to the Melissani Cave, visitors can enjoy clear, unspoiled water. The island also boasts 18th-century neoclassical and baroque architecture, which sets it apart from the white-washed Cycladic architecture found on other islands.
Don’t leave Kefalonia without trying its Robola wine, a local favorite with over 500 tons produced on the island. Overall, Kefalonia is the ultimate Greek island to visit this summer, offering visitors beautiful scenery, fantastic architecture, and pristine blue waters. Take a break from the crowds of Mykonos and make the most of visiting Kefalonia, where you can truly relax.
