MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Zakynthos

How to Get to Zakynthos

Zakynthos Ionian Islands, Greece Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport Information

Zakynthos International Airport "Dionysios Solomos" (ZTH) is the main airport. It is about 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) south of Zakynthos Town.

Flight Options

  • Seasonal charter flights from main European cities (May-Oct).
  • Year-round connections via Athens International Airport (ATH).
  • No direct transatlantic flights; stopover across Europe or Athens needed.

Airport Transfers

Upon arrival at ZTH, several alternatives exist for reaching Zakynthos Town or your chosen accommodation:

Transfer Choices

  • Taxis are readily available outside the terminal (fixed fares to resorts).
  • Public bus services from airport to Zakynthos Town main bus station (restricted timetables).
  • Pre-booked private transfers from hotels or companies for convenience.

Seasonal Pricing

Airfare is highest in July-August due to peak demand, lower in shoulder seasons, and lowest in low season (Nov-April).

Cost Tip

Confirm taxi price with driver before starting journey to avoid misunderstandings.

Airport Facilities

ZTH is small, offering cafes, snack bars, a duty-free shop, and ATMs. Free Wi-Fi may be slow during peak times.

Land Transportation

Intercity Buses

  • KTEL Zakynthos runs bus services connecting Zakynthos Town to mainland cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
  • These are "bus-ferry" tickets: bus drives onto ferry at Killini.
  • Tickets at KTEL bus the train station in Zakynthos Town. This makes for a nice way to travel away from the island to the main landmass cities without multiple transfers.
  • No border crossings or train amenities on the island itself.

Self-Driving Notes

  • Valid driving license; International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens.
  • Credit card in main driver's name for deposit. Minimum age 21-23.
  • Main roads are paved; smaller streets can be narrow, winding, unpaved.
  • Parking is challenging in Zakynthos Town, easier in resorts but can fill.

Sea Arrivals

Ferry Services

Zakynthos Town (Zante Port) serves as the main ferry gateway to the island. The most common and consistent ferry route links Zakynthos Town to Killini, a port on the Peloponnese mainland (1 hour 15 minutes journey).

Ferry Routes

  • Levante Ferries operates the Zakynthos-Killini route with multiple daily departures.
  • Seasonal smaller ferries link The Capital of lasithi (north Zakynthos) to Pessada in Kefalonia.
  • Zakynthos Town is a popular port of call for international cruise ships.

Port Procedures

Immigration procedures at seaports vary based on your point of origin. No river transportation options exist.

Immigration & Land Links

  • No immigration checks if you're coming from within Schengen Area.
  • Standard Schengen entry procedures if from outside Schengen.
  • Zakynthos Town Port is walkable to town center.

Road Safety

Driving can be challenging due to steep inclines, tight turns, and local driving habits. Locals sometimes drive aggressively or unpredictably.

Driving Laws & Conditions

  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Helmets are mandatory for motorcyclists and scooter riders. Drink-driving laws are strict.
  • Main roads are usually paved and in decent condition. Smaller roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved.

Traffic Awareness

Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, and ATVs, notably in tourist attractions. Parking can be challenging in Zakynthos Town, specifically during peak hours.

Parking & Hazards

  • Observe parking signs carefully to avoid fines or towing.
  • Be cautious on roads leading to secluded beaches or viewpoints; they can be steep and challenging.
  • Drive defensively and allow extra time for journeys.

Departure Information

  • There are no exit fees for tourists departing Greece.
  • Arrive at ZTH at least 2-3 hours before international flights (peak season).
  • For domestic flights, arrive 1-1.FIVE hours ahead of departure.
  • Arrive at the dock at least 30-60 minutes before ferry departure (more with vehicle).
  • Airport facilities are basic: cafes, places for snacks, duty-free. Seating may be limited.
  • The airport can be busy during peak season; allow sufficient time.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Smooth departure planning leads to a comfortable end to your trip.

Checklist

  • Arrive at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) at least 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • This grants sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and passport control.
  • Airport taxes and charges are typically included in your flight ticket price.

Airport & Port Facilities

ZTH airport facilities for departing travelers are basic. After security, you find cafes, places for snacks, and a duty-free shop.

Facilities Summary

  • Cafes and snack bars for refreshments.
  • Duty-free shop for last-last-minute buys.
  • Seating may be limited during busy periods.

Domestic Flights

For flights within Greece, arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure.

Ferry Departures

Arrive at the port 30-60 minutes prior to the planned departure time. Allow more time with a vehicle.

Passport Control

If leaving the Schengen Area, allow time for passport control after security.

Additional Departure Notes

Taxi & Bus Connections

Taxis are usually available at or in the vicinity of the port upon ferry arrivals. Local buses also serve areas close to the port, linking to the main KTEL bus station.

Transport Links

  • Taxis available at ZTH terminal.
  • KTEL bus services from airport to town.
  • Zakynthos Town port is walkable to the town center.

Car Rental Return

Car hire counters for major international and local companies can be found in the arrivals hall at ZTH.

Return Process

  • Return car to the airport or designated drop-off point.
  • Confirm fuel policy and condition before returning.
  • Keep all rental agreements and receipts.

Departure Checklist

Documents

Passport, boarding pass, any necessary visas ready.

Baggage

Confirm weight limits, check for forbidden items.

Logistics

Confirm transfer arrangements, allow ample time for travel to airport/port.

Final Reminders

Always confirm departure times and allow ample time, especially during peak travel periods.

← Previous
What to Pack for Zakynthos
← Back to Zakynthos
Next →
Getting Around Zakynthos

Next Up: Getting Around Zakynthos. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Zakynthos