Argostoli: Shore Excursion to Caves with Local Wine Tasting

Exploring Kefalonia’s natural beauty can be a highlight of any trip to this western Greek island, and this shore excursion offers a well-balanced mix of jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating caves, and authentic local flavors. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, based on numerous reviews and detailed itineraries, it promises a memorable experience for those craving a taste of Kefalonia’s unique landscape and culture.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the boat ride through Melissani Cave Lake is said to be truly enchanting, with sunlight illuminating the water’s vivid turquoise hue. Second, the visit to Drogarati Cave reveals impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, along with a rich history of musical concerts. Finally, a local wine tasting at a seaside tavern offers a delightful chance to sample Kefalonia’s wines in a relaxed setting.

A potential consideration? The tour involves some walking and stairs—specifically around Drogarati Cave—so it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues. Also, entrance fees to the caves (~13 Euros) are not included, meaning an extra cost to keep in mind.

This tour seems perfect for cruise passengers, curious travelers eager to explore Kefalonia’s natural wonders, and anyone looking for an authentic taste of the island’s landscapes and flavors.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Stunning caves and a picturesque beach viewpoint
• Includes convenient pickup and drop-off options
• Extra costs for cave entrances and personal expenses
• Suitable for those comfortable with walking and stairs

This five-hour tour covers a lot of ground while keeping it relaxed. It’s especially well-suited for cruise visitors or travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive snapshot of Kefalonia’s iconic sites. You’ll start with a pickup from one of 30 designated locations, including hotels and popular spots such as Ammes Beach and Lassi. The round-trip transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort and efficiency—important after a morning of travel or in the heat of summer.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Journey and Its Highlights

The first stop is Drogarati Cave, a marvel of natural architecture discovered about 300 years ago, with public access since 1963. Visitors often comment on the remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations that create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The cave’s excellent acoustics are legendary; it’s hosted concerts in the past, including performances by Opera singer Maria Callas. Reviewers like Soham praise the guide, noting, “Maria was an excellent guide,” and describe the experience as “thoroughly enjoyed.”

Getting into Drogarati involves descending approximately 150 steps—handrails are installed, but uneven floors and some slipperiness mean comfortable, non-slip shoes are a good idea. The 40-minute visit provides enough time to admire the formations and learn about the cave’s history without feeling rushed.

Next, a short 10-minute bus ride takes you to Melissani Cave, where the boat cruise is often described as a “must-do.” The lake’s crystal-clear waters are illuminated by sunlight filtering through a collapsed part of the roof, creating a surreal turquoise glow. Reviewers have noted that the sunlight effect really does light up the water in a way that photographs struggle to capture. During the high summer months, queues might form, but reviewers agree the experience is worth the wait.

On the boat, you’ll get close to the cave’s glassy waters and see why it’s called the Lake of the Nymphs. The cave’s shape, resembling a “B,” results from a collapse about three thousand years ago, adding to its geological intrigue. Many visitors mention how unique and beautiful this geological feature is, with some reviewers noting they’ve captured stunning photos from the viewpoint.

Following this, the tour makes a quick 10-minute stop at Myrtos Beach for 10 minutes of sightseeing and photo opportunities. While not a long visit, it offers a glimpse of one of the world’s most famous beaches, with reviewers describing it as “absolutely stunning” and “perfect for photos.”

The Heart of the Experience: Wine Tasting and Authentic Flavors

The final major highlight is a local wine tasting at “The Vine,” a traditional seaside shop. This part of the tour is often cited as a favorite, with visitors praising the knowledgeable hosts, who share stories about Kefalonia’s wine-making traditions. Reviewers like Alma mention that the wine knowledge and love for the local varieties truly stand out. The tasting lasts around 105 minutes, giving you plenty of time to sample different wines, relax, and soak in the seaside ambiance.

While the cost of the cave entrance (~13 Euros) isn’t included, the wine tasting experience offers great value, especially considering the quality of the wines and the charming setting. Some guests expressed slight disappointment about additional costs, but most agree that the overall experience remains excellent value for the price.

The Logistics and What You Should Know

The itinerary is well-structured, with a mix of sightseeing and leisure. The tour uses air-conditioned coaches, which are appreciated during warmer months, and includes pickups and drop-offs at multiple locations—making it easy for travelers to join without worrying about transportation. The total duration of 5 hours means you still have plenty of time to explore or relax after the tour.

For those concerned about accessibility, the tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the stairs and uneven surfaces in the caves. Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and cave exploration.

Reviewers appreciate the efficiency of the organization, often mentioning how the check-in process the day before helps them know exactly where to meet. Guides like Maria, described as “lovely” and “very knowledgeable,” enhance the experience with engaging stories and friendly service.

Enhancing the Experience

Many reviewers highlight the small group size and the fact that the guide takes extra care to make everyone feel comfortable. Some mention that the tour sometimes includes slight detours, like a quick stop at a viewpoint of Myrtos Beach, which adds to the charm and relaxed vibe of the day.

The cost of about $43 per person is seen as fair, considering the inclusive nature of the trip—pickups, guide, transportation, and wine tasting. Entrance fees for the caves are an extra expense but manageable for most travelers.

This excursion is ideal for cruise travelers who want a full yet manageable experience of Kefalonia’s caves and coast. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and sampling local foods and drinks. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic flavor, this trip fits the bill.

However, if you prefer long beach days or activities that involve more physical activity, you might find the cave stairs and short stops a bit limiting.

This Kefalonia shore excursion offers a fantastic balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and local flavor. The combination of stunning caves, the spectacular Myrtos Beach view, and a relaxing wine tasting means you’ll leave with memories and photos worth cherishing.

The guides, especially Maria, are often praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience even more enjoyable. The price reflects good value, given the inclusions, though extra costs like cave entrance fees are an added expense to consider.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, picturesque, and enriching half-day tour on Kefalonia, this is a solid choice that captures the essence of the island’s natural and cultural appeal.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, but keep in mind the stairs in Drogarati Cave and the walking involved. Small children should be supervised closely.

How long is the boat ride at Melissani Cave?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 40 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the cave’s stunning interior and take photos.

Are the cave entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees (~13 Euros) are not included and need to be paid separately at the caves.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking and descending stairs. Light, casual clothes suitable for warm weather are best.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to stairs and uneven surfaces in the caves.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How early should I arrive for pickup?
The tour organizer confirms pickup times the day before, but most pickups are scheduled to be prompt—just be ready at your designated location.

You can check if your dates are available here: