Where to stay in Assos: The best areas and 16 accommodations

Assos is one of the most photographed villages in Kefalonia, built on a narrow strip of land that connects the Venetian fortress with the rest of the island. It is located on the northwest coast, at a distance that requires care when driving due to the narrow mountain roads connecting it with the surrounding villages.

The area around Assos also includes smaller settlements such as Agona, a few kilometres south, and the Myrtos area, known primarily for its eponymous beach, which is considered one of Greece's most photogenic. Choosing a base here depends on how close you want to be to the village of Assos itself or to Myrtos beach.

In this article, you will find a detailed breakdown of the areas, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you organise your stay.

What to see and do in Assos

Assos is located in the northern part of Kefalonia, approximately 36 kilometres from Argostoli, a journey that takes around 50 minutes by car due to the mountainous and winding road. The village is built on a narrow peninsula that culminates in a 16th-century Venetian fortress, constructed to protect the bay from pirate raids.

Assos Fortress is one of the most important sights in the area, and the ascent takes about 20 to 30 minutes on foot, through dense cypress and pine vegetation. From the top, the view of the bay and the peninsula is one of the most spectacular on the island, ideal for sunset.

Assos beach is located directly below the village, with pebbles and turquoise waters, while the small cove to the west is more sheltered. The village has a few but good tavernas serving fresh fish and offering views of the small harbour, where small fishing boats and pleasure craft are moored.

Myrtos Beach, approximately 5 kilometres south of Assos towards Divarata, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, with white pebbles and vibrant blue water, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. Access is via a steep road with many turns, and the beach offers no shade, so an umbrella or sun protection is needed.

Agona is a small coastal settlement a few kilometres south of Assos, with a quieter atmosphere and fewer shops, popular with those seeking an authentic experience without extensive tourist development. It has its own small beach and some rental properties with sea views.

Regarding dining, the tavernas in the area mainly offer fresh fish, seafood, and local Kefalonian dishes such as meat pie (kreatopita) and light cheese (elafry). Many restaurants are located next to the small harbour, with views of the fortress, making them popular for sunset dinners.

Seasonality is pronounced, peaking in July and August, when Myrtos fills up early in the morning with visitors from all over the island. June and the first half of September offer a calmer experience, while the sea remains warm until the end of September.

Access to Kefalonia is primarily via Argostoli Airport, with flights from Athens and several European cities in summer, or by ferry from Killini and Astakos on the Peloponnese and mainland Greece respectively. From the airport to Assos, the journey takes approximately one hour by car.

The roads around Assos are narrow and winding, especially the descent to Myrtos, so caution is needed when driving, particularly if you are not accustomed to mountain routes. KTEL buses serve the area sparingly, so a car is considered almost essential for those staying here.

From Assos, you can also organise an excursion to Fiskardo, the most cosmopolitan village in northern Kefalonia, about 20 kilometres away, known for its Venetian buildings that survived the 1953 earthquake and the lively boat traffic in its harbour.

Assos takes its name, according to local tradition, either from the mythical hero Assos or from the city of the same name in Asia Minor, as many residents of the area had Venetian and later Venetian influence in their architecture. The houses in the village retain the strong colours and style of the Venetian period, with colourful facades and small courtyards full of flowers, making it one of the most photogenic villages in the entire Ionian.

The 1953 earthquake, which destroyed much of Kefalonia, also affected Assos, yet several buildings were preserved or reconstructed, maintaining their old aesthetic. The fortress, although partly damaged by previous earthquakes, remains in good condition and offers visitors the opportunity to walk among old walls and ruined structures with views of the Ionian Sea.

The best areas to stay in Assos

Assos village and surrounding area

Assos village is small but picturesque, with a few but good accommodations near the harbour. Basing yourself here gives you direct access to the fortress, the beach, and tavernas with views over the bay.

Just outside the village centre, there are also some accommodations offering greater privacy and nature views, suitable for those with a car who prefer a quieter stay without venturing too far from Assos.

Advantages:

• Direct access to the fortress and beach
• Picturesque atmosphere with a small harbour
• Choice between a central or quieter location

Disadvantages:

• Limited number of accommodations
• Few shops for daily necessities
• More remote accommodations require a car

Recommended accommodations:

1. Linardos Apartments
Apartments with sea views, next to Assos beach, with very high guest ratings.

• Average cost: approximately €140 per night

2. Vassilis Retreat
A complex with a pool and views, popular with couples and families.

• Average cost: approximately €150 per night

3. Assos Blue House
A small house with traditional character, suitable for a quiet stay in the village.

• Average cost: approximately €120 per night

4. AssosView
Accommodation with a pool and panoramic views of the village and the bay.

• Average cost: approximately €160 per night

5. Sofia's Studios
Simple studios in a central village location, near tavernas.

• Average cost: approximately €90 per night

6. Paradise View
Apartment with views and a quiet location, close to the main road to Assos.

• Average cost: approximately €130 per night

Agona

Agona is a quiet settlement with its own small beach, suitable for those who want to avoid the tourist bustle of Assos while maintaining proximity to the sea.

Advantages:

• Very quiet environment
• Authentic local atmosphere

Disadvantages:

• Very few shops and tavernas
• A car is needed for everything

Recommended accommodations:

7. Aelia Sea
Apartment with sea views, quiet location in Agona, suitable for couples.

• Average cost: approximately €95 per night

Myrtos and Divarata

Divarata is the mountain village above Myrtos beach, hosting most of the area's accommodations. It is a good base for those who want to visit Myrtos early in the morning before it gets crowded.

Advantages:

• Close to Myrtos beach
• More accommodation options

Disadvantages:

• Distance from Assos village
• The road to the beach itself is steep

Recommended accommodations:

8. Myrtos Hotel
Hotel with a pool and views, one of the most popular accommodations near Myrtos.

• Average cost: approximately €100 per night

9. Myrtos Cottages Kefalonia
Small country houses with a garden, suitable for families.

• Average cost: approximately €110 per night

10. Minas Apartments
Apartments with excellent reviews, near the centre of Divarata.

• Average cost: approximately €90 per night

11. Myrtos Bay Apartments
Apartments with bay views, quiet location in Anomeri.

• Average cost: approximately €105 per night

12. Thalassa Apartments
Seafront apartments, with very good guest ratings.

• Average cost: approximately €115 per night

13. Myrtia Apartments
Simple apartments in a quiet location in Divarata.

• Average cost: approximately €85 per night

Fiskardo

Fiskardo is located approximately 20 kilometres north of Assos and is the most touristically developed village in the area, with Venetian buildings, bars, and restaurants by the harbour.

Advantages:

• More lively evening scene
• More dining options

Disadvantages:

• Higher prices in summer
• Distance from Assos and Myrtos

Recommended accommodations:

14. Kiki Studios
Seafront studios, near Fiskardo centre.

• Average cost: approximately €120 per night

15. Kiki Apartments
Apartments with excellent ratings, a few minutes from the harbour.

• Average cost: approximately €130 per night

16. Faros Residence Adults Only
Adults-only accommodation, with sea views and a quiet atmosphere.

• Average cost: approximately €145 per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Go to Myrtos early in the morning. The beach fills up quickly in July and August, so if you arrive before 10 AM, you'll find a better spot and fewer people.
• Rent a car. The roads around Assos are narrow and public transport is limited, so a car is almost essential.
• Book accommodation in the village early. Assos has limited accommodation compared to demand, so if you want to stay in the village, book several months before summer.
• Take shade and water for Myrtos. The beach has no natural shade, so you'll need your own umbrella, plenty of water, and sunscreen.
• Combine with Fiskardo. If you want livelier evenings, consider staying in Fiskardo and visiting Assos and Myrtos daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Assos from Argostoli?

Approximately 36 km, a journey of about 50 minutes by car due to the mountainous road.

Do I need a car to stay in Assos?

Yes, public transport is limited and exploring the area is mainly done by car.

How far is Myrtos beach from Assos?

Approximately 5 km, but the route is steep with many turns.

What is the best time to see Myrtos without many crowds?

June and the first half of September, or during morning hours in July and August.

Are there accommodations within Assos village?

Yes, but they are limited in number, so early booking is recommended.

Is a visit to Assos Fortress worth it?

Yes, it offers panoramic views of the bay and is easily accessible with a short hike from the village.

Conclusion

Assos combines history, natural beauty, and proximity to one of Greece's most famous beaches, Myrtos. Your choice of base depends on whether you prefer the picturesque atmosphere of the village itself, the tranquillity of Agona, or the practicality of Divarata near the beach.

With the accommodation suggestions above, you can organise your stay according to your priorities, whether you are looking for peace and quiet or want to be as close as possible to the main attractions of the area.

See also our guides for where to stay in Ornos and where to stay in Leptokarya.