Quick answer
Kefalonia Airport (EFL) is 10km from Argostoli (the capital) and takes about 15 minutes by car. This is a small Greek island airport with very limited public transport. Your realistic options are: taxi (~€20-25 to Argostoli), pre-booked transfer (~€25-40), or rental car. There is no bus service from the airport.
What actually happens after landing
EFL is a tiny airport — one runway, one small terminal. After landing, you'll walk across the tarmac (enjoy the Greek sunshine) to the terminal building. Baggage claim is a single carousel. The whole arrivals process takes 10-20 minutes.
Outside, there's a small parking area and not much else. This isn't a city airport — it's a small island facility. There's no bus stop, no train, no metro. Just taxis, pre-arranged transfers, and rental car desks.
Key fact: Kefalonia is a large island but destinations are spread out. Argostoli is close (10km), but places like Fiskardo (55km), Skala (35km), and Sami (25km) are much further. Know where you're going before you land.
Transport options explained honestly
Pre-booked transfer (recommended) — Given the limited taxi availability, this is the most reliable option. A driver meets you at arrivals, guaranteed. Costs €25-40 to Argostoli, more for distant destinations. Book in advance during peak summer.
Rental car — The most popular option on Kefalonia. Several rental agencies are at or near the airport. You'll likely want a car anyway — the island is large and public transport is minimal. Book well in advance for summer.
Hotel/villa shuttle — Some accommodation providers arrange transfers, especially villas and larger hotels. Ask when booking your stay.
Public bus — There is no public bus from the airport. The KTEL bus network serves the island but doesn't connect to the airport. Don't count on this.
Realistic pricing expectations
| Destination | Distance | Taxi estimate | Transfer estimate | |---|---|---|---| | Argostoli | 10 km | €20-25 | €25-40 | | Lassi | 12 km | €22-28 | €28-42 | | Sami | 25 km | €35-45 | €40-55 | | Skala | 35 km | €45-60 | €50-70 | | Lixouri | 25 km (via ferry or road) | €35-50 | €40-60 | | Fiskardo | 55 km | €65-85 | €70-100 | | Agia Efimia | 35 km | €45-60 | €50-70 |
Late night arrivals
Charter flights often arrive at EFL late in the evening. At night, the already-limited taxi supply shrinks further. Pre-booking a transfer is essential for late arrivals — don't gamble on finding a taxi at 11 PM on a small Greek island.
The airport has no overnight facilities. After the last flight, it closes. Rental car agencies may also close, so confirm your pick-up arrangements in advance.
Families and luggage
Taxis on Kefalonia are standard sedans — they'll handle 2-3 bags and a small family. For larger families with lots of holiday luggage, pre-book a minivan transfer.
Child car seats are not standard in Greek taxis. Request one from your transfer company when booking. Some rental car companies include child seats — ask when reserving your car.
The airport is very basic — limited food, drinks, or shop options. Have snacks and water for kids.
Where you meet the driver
Pre-booked transfer: Your driver will be outside the terminal or in the tiny arrivals area with your name on a sign. The airport is so small that you can't miss them.
Rental car: Agencies are either at the airport or will send a shuttle from nearby (a 5-minute ride).
Decision helper
- Staying in Argostoli/Lassi for a few days: Taxi or transfer on arrival, taxis during stay
- Exploring the whole island: Rental car (essential)
- Villa holiday in a remote area: Pre-booked transfer + rental car
- Late night arrival: Pre-booked transfer (don't risk no taxi)
- Family with kids: Transfer with child seat, or rental car with car seat
- Weekend/peak summer: Pre-book everything — demand exceeds supply
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a bus from Kefalonia Airport?
No. There is no public bus service from EFL airport. The island's KTEL bus network serves some towns but doesn't connect to the airport. You need a taxi, transfer, or rental car.
Should I rent a car in Kefalonia?
Probably yes. Kefalonia is a large island with limited public transport. If you want to visit beaches, villages, and sights beyond your resort area, a rental car is almost essential. Book well in advance for summer.
How many taxis are there in Kefalonia?
Very few — Kefalonia has a very limited number of licensed taxis for the whole island. During peak summer when multiple flights arrive, taxis at the airport can be scarce. Pre-booking is strongly recommended.
How do I get from Kefalonia to Zakynthos?
There's a seasonal ferry from Pessada (Kefalonia) to Agios Nikolaos (Zakynthos). The ferry takes about 1 hour. You'll need a taxi or transfer to Pessada port, then another on Zakynthos. Check ferry schedules — they're seasonal and weather-dependent.