The Peloponnese, Greece
Kalamata International Airport (KLX "Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos") provides direct access, located 9 km (5.6 miles) northwest of the city center. It mainly handles seasonal flights. Athens International Airport (ATH "Eleftherios Venizelos") is Greece's largest airport, serving as the main gateway for international arrivals. It lies 250 km (155 miles) northeast of Kalamata.
Numerous international carriers operate year-round connections from major global hubs to Athens. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air provide domestic flights within Greece. For distant global hubs, flights land at ATH.
Shoulder seasons (May-June, Sep-Oct) offer good flight and accommodation prices. Check Dollar Flight Club for savings.
Use Skyscanner to compare flight options from various airlines and find the best routes and prices.
KLX is small, with basic facilities. ATH is a major hub with extensive shops, restaurants, and lounges.
KTEL Messinias operates modern, comfortable intercity buses. Frequent routes connect Athens to Kalamata (2.5-3 hours, €25-€30). Connections exist to other Peloponnese towns. No direct train service from Athens to Kalamata.
A valid driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) often applies for non-EU licenses not in English. Drivers typically must be 21+ and held license for 1+ year. A major credit card is a condition for security deposit. Compare prices at DiscoverCars.com.
Motorways (e.g., Athens to Kalamata E65) are modern, well-maintained toll roads. Secondary roads vary; mountain/coastal roads can be winding/narrow. Drive carefully. Speed limits are enforced. Parking in Kalamata city center can be challenging; look for designated paid parking.
Kalamata is a commercial port. It does not function as a major passenger ferry hub for tourists. Most island ferries depart from Piraeus (Athens' port), Patras, or other mainland ports.
Prepare for your departure for a smooth end to your trip. No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing travelers from Greece beyond what is included in your airline ticket.
Always confirm your flight or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This helps avoid unexpected issues.
For bus departures, reach the KTEL Kalamata bus station 15-30 minutes before your bus is scheduled to leave.
The process at KTEL bus stations is functional, with basic waiting areas and kiosks for snacks or drinks.
For ground transportation from Athens Airport, the KTEL bus is a popular and convenient public transport option to Kalamata.
