Car Rental in Kefalonia

Where to drive

• Drive to Myrtos Beach (≈ 30 km, 45 min from Argostoli) for breathtaking views and a swim in its famous turquoise waters.
• Explore Assos village (≈ 37 km, 1 hour from Argostoli) with its picturesque harbor and Venetian castle ruins, offering stunning coastal drives.
• Visit Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave (both near Sami, ≈ 25 km, 40 min from Argostoli) for unique geological formations and underground lake experiences.
• Journey to Fiskardo (≈ 50 km, 1 hour 15 min from Argostoli), a charming, well-preserved Venetian village on the northern tip, perfect for a leisurely lunch by the sea.
• Discover Mount Ainos National Park (highest peak ≈ 1628m, accessible from various points, e.g., ≈ 20 km, 40 min from Argostoli to the entrance) for hiking and panoramic island views.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid driving license from your home country, a passport or valid ID, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required. Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of one year, though some companies may have higher age limits or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Kefalonia vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40 EUR to over 100 EUR daily during peak summer. Expect prices to be highest from July to September.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways (though Kefalonia has no motorways). The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% BAC. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 135 cm must use appropriate child seats. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are advisable in tunnels or poor visibility. Always respect local signage and conditions.

Parking

In Argostoli and other main towns, paid parking zones are common, often indicated by blue lines on the road. You can usually purchase parking tickets from kiosks or designated machines. Free parking might be available further from the center, especially in smaller villages or near beaches, but spaces can be limited during peak season. Always check for local signs to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Kefalonia, particularly in larger towns like Argostoli, Sami, and Skala, and along main routes. Most stations offer unleaded petrol (95 or 100 octane) and diesel. Prices are regulated and generally comparable across the island, typically paid in cash or by card. Card payments are widely accepted, but it's always wise to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For Kefalonia's often winding and sometimes narrow roads, a compact or economy car is generally ideal for easy navigation and parking. If you plan to explore more rugged, unpaved routes to secluded beaches or mountain trails, a small SUV with higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Manual transmission cars are more common, but automatics are available, often at a higher price. Consider air conditioning as a must for summer travel.

Frequently asked questions