Logistics · Destination Guide
Ionian wrecks, blue caverns, turtle harbors, and mountain days in one Greek island trip
Updated Apr 26, 2026 • 26 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Most visitors fly into Kefalonia Airport "Anna Pollatou" (EFL), near Argostoli and Lassi, with Greek domestic links and a larger seasonal mix of European flights. Ferries are the other major access route, especially for drivers coming from western Greece or combining Kefalonia with Ithaca, Lefkada, or Zakynthos. The island is large, so choose your arrival route around your base: Fiskardo and Agia Efimia for north and east diving, Skala and Poros for the south, or Argostoli/Lassi for central flexibility.
Kefalonia Airport "Anna Pollatou"
EFL • LGKF
10 km to Argostoli • 15 to 25 minutesute drive to Argostoli or Lassi; about 60 to 90 minutesutes to Fiskardo or Skala depending route and traffic
Primary island airport near Argostoli, Svoronata, and Lassi. Seasonal operating hours and airline mix expand during the main tourism season, so verify live schedules close to departure.
Transport: Rental car, Taxi, Pre-booked private transfer, Hotel transfer, Seasonal KTEL bus to Argostoli
Renting a car is strongly recommended for dive and snorkel travelers. The airport has bus links to Argostoli and the island has KTEL routes, but schedules can be sparse and do not line up with early dive boats or remote coves. Taxis and private transfers are useful for airport days; the Argostoli to Lixouri ferry can simplify Paliki trips.
Greece is in the Schengen Area. Many visa-exempt travelers can visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, while other nationalities need a Schengen visa. Passports should generally be valid at least 3 months beyond intended Schengen departure and issued within the previous 10 years. Travelers may be asked for proof of funds, accommodation, and onward or return travel. Check your nationality's current rules before departure, especially as European entry systems continue to change.
Most dive centers rent standard recreational gear, cylinders, weights, and exposure suits. Bring personal mask, computer, SMB, prescription mask, and any technical gear you are particular about. Ask operators ahead for nitrox, DIN/Yoke availability, twinset or stage support, and HMS Perseus requirements. Pack a 5mm suit for summer if you chill easily, and 7mm or layered protection for April, May, October, or November. Dry space can be limited in small rentals, so bring mesh bags and clips.
Euro (EUR)
Cards are widely used in hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets, and dive centers, but cash is still useful for taxis, small tavernas, beach parking, tips, ferries, and remote kiosks.
ATMs are easiest in Argostoli, Lixouri, Sami, Skala, and Fiskardo. Use bank-linked ATMs when possible and decline dynamic currency conversion if your card offers a better exchange rate.
230V • 50Hz • C, F
Most modern chargers are dual-voltage, but travelers from outside Europe should bring a Type C or F adapter. Check camera chargers, dive-light chargers, scooters, and battery packs before departure.
Communications
Greece has strong mobile networks in towns and resorts, and eSIMs or EU roaming usually work well around Argostoli, Lassi, Sami, Skala, Lixouri, and Fiskardo. Expect weaker signal in cliff coves, mountain roads, remote beaches, and on some boat routes. Download maps before driving across the island.
Language
Greek is the official language. English is widely understood in tourism, dive centers, ferry offices, and major restaurants, especially from May to October. Learning basic greetings is appreciated in villages and family-run tavernas.
Insurance
Carry travel insurance that covers scuba, snorkeling accidents, medical evacuation, and trip disruption. Divers should add dedicated dive accident coverage such as DAN Europe or an equivalent policy that includes hyperbaric treatment and evacuation. Confirm coverage for deep, technical, wreck, or cavern-adjacent dives if those are on your plan.
Packing list
Pack mask, computer, SMB, reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, lightweight hiking shoes, a 5mm suit for summer divers who chill easily, and warmer exposure protection for April, May, October, or November. Bring motion-sickness medication for small boats and a dry bag for beach-hopping days.