How to Get From Athens to Zakynthos: All Transportation Options Explained
This post may contain affiliate links, that means if you use the links to purchase something I get a commission at no extra cost to you. Click here for more information about this.
I’ve visited the island of Zakynthos many, many times, and it’s a place I never get tired of returning to.
With its turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and iconic spots like Navagio Beach — also known as Shipwreck Beach — Zakynthos is one of the most recognizable islands in Greece.
Unlike destinations like Nafplio or Delphi, Zakynthos isn’t a quick day trip from Athens. It’s an island that deserves at least a few days, and how you get there can shape your entire experience.
Whether you want speed, flexibility, or a budget-friendly route, there are several ways to travel from Athens to Zakynthos.
Athens to Zakynthos
Transportation Options at a Glance
Zakynthos is located in the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of the Peloponnese. To get there from Athens, you’ll need to either fly or combine land travel with a ferry.
- Fastest option: Fly
- Most flexible option: Car + ferry
- Most budget-friendly option: Bus + ferry
By Car + Ferry: The Most Flexible Option
Driving to Zakynthos is ideal if you want maximum flexibility — especially if you plan to rent a car on the island or bring one with you.
How it works
- Rent a car in Athens (airport or city center)
- Drive across the Peloponnese to Kyllini Port on the west coast
- Take the ferry from Kyllini to Zakynthos
Things to know
- Driving time (Athens → Kyllini): ~3 hours
- Ferry duration: About 1–1.5 hours
- Roads: Mostly modern highways
- Tolls: You’ll encounter toll booths along the way
The ferry from Kyllini is frequent and reliable, making this route very popular with both locals and visitors.
Why choose it
- Full control over your schedule
- Easy if you’re traveling with others
- You can bring a car to the island (helpful for beaches and viewpoints)
- Great for a Peloponnese road trip
Who this is best for
Families, groups, and travelers who want independence both on the mainland and on Zakynthos.
Grab your FREE
✨Ultimate Greece Travel Starter Guide!!!✨
Skip the overwhelm — I pulled together the must-knows so you don’t have to dig through a million sites.
By Airplane: The Fastest and Easiest Option
Flying is the quickest way to reach Zakynthos and a great option if you’re short on time.
What to expect
- Direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH)
- Flight time is usually about 1 hour
- Seasonal increase in flights during summer
- Zakynthos International Airport is close to the main towns
You can also find direct flights from other European airports during peak season, but from Athens, this is the most straightforward island flight.
Why choose it
- Saves hours of travel time
- No ferry schedules to coordinate
- Ideal for shorter stays
Who this is best for
Travelers on tight schedules, weekend trips, or anyone who prefers simplicity.
By Bus + Ferry: The Most Budget-Friendly Option
If you don’t want to drive, you can still reach Zakynthos using public transportation.
How it works
- Take a KTEL bus from Athens Kifisos Bus Station to Kyllini Port
- Transfer to the ferry to Zakynthos
Bus and ferry schedules are usually coordinated, making the connection fairly smooth.
Things to know
- Total travel time: Around 5–6 hours
- Cost: One of the cheapest options
- Comfort: Air-conditioned buses and modern ferries
Who this is best for
Budget travelers, solo travelers, and those comfortable with longer travel days.
Which Transportation Option Should You Choose?
- Short on time? → Fly
- Want flexibility and a car on the island? → Drive + ferry
- Traveling on a budget? → Bus + ferry
Practical Tips for Visiting Zakynthos
- Zakynthos is best enjoyed with at least 3–4 days
- Summer is peak season — book flights and ferries early
- Having a car on the island makes it much easier to reach beaches
- Navagio Beach is weather-dependent; plan flexibility into your itinerary
Grab your FREE
✨Ultimate Greece Travel Starter Guide!!!✨
Skip the overwhelm — I pulled together the must-knows so you don’t have to dig through a million sites.
Conclusion: Planning Your Trip to Zakynthos
Zakynthos may require a bit more planning than mainland destinations, but the journey is well worth it.
Whether you choose the speed of a flight, the flexibility of driving and taking the ferry, or the affordability of public transport, there’s an option that fits every travel style.
Once you arrive, the island’s natural beauty speaks for itself — dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and landscapes that make every return visit feel just as special as the first. However you get there, Zakynthos is a destination that rewards taking your time.
