Want to know the best way to get from Athens to Zakynthos and vice versa? Well, you’re in for a treat because this trip is more than just moving from point A to B; it’s about kicking off an epic vacation.
Athens is great with all its history and unique streets, but Zakynthos is where the magic happens, with stunning beaches and a relaxing environment.
Whether you’re all about getting there fast, sticking to a budget, or just finding the smoothest ride, we’ll go through all the options in this complete guide.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Get To Zakynthos From Athens Overview
I understand you may not have the time to go through the whole guide, so here are the best options for getting to Zakynthos from Athens:
- Flying from Athens to Zakynthos (45 minutes)
- Bus to Kyllini + Ferry to Zakynthos (5 to 6 hours in total)
Want to know more? Here are other helpful details you may want to know before we share the best ways to get to Zante, including the Kyllini Zakynthos ferry.
Where Is Zakynthos?
Zakynthos is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, famous for its stunning beaches and marine life. It’s part of the Ionian Islands, located about 20 kilometers west of the Greek mainland.
Zante is a mix of beautiful landscapes, ranging from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs. Historically, Zakynthos has a rich past, having been under the rule of the Venetians, French, and British before becoming part of Greece in 1864.
Is It Zante Or Zakynthos?
Zante is the Italian name for Zakynthos, and it’s widely used by tourists. The Greeks themselves call it Zakynthos, which is also the internationally recognized name.
This dual naming dates back to the Venetian occupation of the island from the late Middle Ages until the end of the 18th century. The Venetians loved the island and nicknamed it “Fior di Levante” or Flower of the East.
Despite the name difference, both refer to the same island, known for its shipwreck beach, Navagio, olive groves, and fun nightlife.
How Long From Athens To Zante?
Traveling from Athens to Zante (Zakynthos) can vary in duration, depending on how you get there. By air, it’s the quickest way, with flights taking around 45 minutes from Athens International Airport to Zakynthos International Airport.
There are frequent flights during the summer, which is convenient. You’ll also find flights from outside Greece, like from Poland, the UK, and more.
If you prefer the scenic route, driving or taking a bus to the port of Kyllini and then catching a ferry to Zakynthos is another option. The drive to Kyllini takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, and the ferry ride adds another hour.
Overall, if you’re going by land and sea, expect the journey to take around 5 to 6 hours, giving you a chance to see more of Greece.
Distance Between Athens And Zakynthos
The distance between Athens and Zakynthos is roughly 300 kilometers (about 186 miles) if you’re looking at a map, measuring the straight line from city to island. However, the actual travel distance depends on how you get there.
By air, it’s a quick hop across the Ionian Sea. If you’re driving or taking a bus, you’ll travel west from Athens to the Peloponnese, then north to the port of Kyllini before crossing by ferry to Zakynthos.
This land and sea route is about 335 kilometers (208 miles), including the ferry.
Brands We Use And Trust
3 Ways To Get From Athens To Zakynthos – Flight, Bus And Ferry
1. Flight From Athens To Zakynthos (ATH To ZTH)
Flying is the fastest and most direct route for getting from Athens to Zakynthos. Flights from Athens International Airport to Zakynthos International Airport take just about 45 minutes, making it a quick hop to your holiday.
During the summer months, airlines increase the frequency of flights, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule. Once you land, you’re a short drive from the island’s main attractions and beaches.
Opting to fly saves you time, letting you maximize your stay on Zakynthos. It’s perfect to get your holidays starting and reduce the traveling time associated with ferries or buses.
Plus, the aerial views of the Ionian Sea and the Greek landscape are an added bonus.
2. Athens To Zakynthos By Bus
Traveling to Zakynthos by bus combines road and sea travel, offering a unique way to see Greece’s countryside.
You’ll start the trip from one of Athens’ bus stations, where you’ll hop on a bus to the port of Kyllini.
This part of the trip takes about 3.5 to 4 hours and once in Kyllini, you’ll transfer to a ferry for the final leg to Zakynthos.
The ferry ride lasts about an hour, and I’ll give more details in the following section. This option is great for those looking for a budget-friendly route or those without a car.
Buses are coordinated with ferry times to minimize wait times, ensuring a smooth transition from land to sea. It’s a convenient, if longer, way to reach the island.
3. Passenger & Car Ferry From Athens To Zante
Taking a ferry to Zante is a nice option if you’re already traveling around Greece.
You’ll start from the port of Kyllini (also spelled Killini) on the western coast of the Peloponnese, which is about a 4-hour drive from Athens.
Ferries run multiple times daily, especially during the tourist season, making it easy to find a time that suits your schedule. The ferry ride itself is about an hour long and offers gorgeous views of the Ionian Sea.
It’s a great option if you’re not in a rush and want to soak up some sun and sea air. Plus, it gives you the flexibility to bring a car or bike, and that is convenient if you rent a car in Greece.
Ferry From Kyllini To Athens Schedule & Cost
The ferry company from Kyllini to Athens is called Levante Ferries, and you’ll find a few options every day in the morning and evening, for added convenience.
Also, note that ferries start operating on March 1st until October 31st, and you won’t find any tickets after that date.
The ferry schedule changes regularly throughout the year, but generally speaking, the first boat leaves at 7:45 AM, and the last ferry departs between 8:30 and 9:30 PM. We recommend booking your ferry tickets as soon as possible.
Book Your Ferry Tickets
Athens To Zakynthos Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you have all the information about getting to Zakynthos from Athens, let’s go through some frequently asked questions that may be helpful.
FAQs
What is the best way to get from Athens to Zakynthos?
If you’re looking for the quickest and most straightforward way to reach Zakynthos from Athens,
Flying into Zakynthos is your best bet if you want to save time and added convenience. The flight takes around 45 minutes, offering a speedy transition from Athens to Zante.
Airlines operate multiple flights daily, especially during the peak season, ensuring flexibility in your travel plans.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Athens to Zante?
For those traveling on a budget, combining a bus ride with a ferry trip is the cheapest way to travel from Athens to Zakynthos.
First, you’ll take a bus from Athens to the port of Kyllini, which takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Then, you’ll hop on a ferry for an hour-long ride to Zakynthos.
What airlines fly from Athens to Zante?
Several airlines operate flights from Athens to Zakynthos – The primary airline offering regular services is Olympic Air, a subsidiary of Aegean Airlines, with frequent flights between these two destinations.
Alternatively, Aegean Airlines and SKY Express also offer flights from Athens to Zante, and as mentioned previously, you’ll find flights from other countries right to Zakynthos, which is convenient.
Are there direct flights to Zante from Athens?
Yes, there are direct flights from Athens to Zante, providing the most efficient way to reach the island. These flights last about 45 minutes, quickly connecting the Greek capital to the stunning island of Zakynthos.
Olympic Air, along with other carriers during the high season, offers multiple direct flights daily.
Should you book your tickets in advance?
Absolutely, we highly recommend booking in advance, especially if you travel during peak season, from late spring to early fall. All flights, ferries, and even car rentals can increase in price quickly.
By booking early, you’re not only securing a spot but also get a better deal too. This goes for accommodations in Zakynthos as well. Last-minute plans can lead to higher prices or even missing out on the best travel options.
When do ferries to Zakynthos start operating?
Ferry services to Zakynthos start on March 1st and run all the way until October 31st. This period covers the spring, summer, and early fall seasons, and that is convenient.
Can you rent a car and drive from Athens to Zakynthos?
Yes, you can rent a car and drive from Athens to Zakynthos. Your road trip starts in Athens and you must make your way to Kyllini, located on the western coast of the Peloponnese.
It’s a beautiful drive that takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Once you reach Kyllini, you’ll hop on a ferry to Zakynthos with your rental car.
It’s a convenient way to explore Zante and having a car gives you the freedom to discover Zakynthos at your own pace, hitting up secluded beaches and local spots off the beaten path.
How much does it cost to get from Athens to Zakynthos?
If you’re flying from Athens to Zakynthos, expect to pay around 100 euros for a one-way ticket. And if you want a cheaper option, the bus ride to Kyllini costs between 35 to 45 euros.
From there, catching the ferry to Zakynthos will add another 12.5 euros per adult and 7 euros for children.
Planning to bring a car? The ferry charge for vehicles is 38.40 euros one way, so keep that in mind.
Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie
No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Final Word
In conclusion, getting from Athens to Zakynthos can be as much a part of your adventure as the destination itself.
Whether you fly, hit the roads, or sail across the sea, each option brings something different to the table. Think about what’s most important for you – speed, cost, or maybe a bit of both – and you’ll find the perfect fit.
Zakynthos is waiting with unbeatable views, and we’re confident you’ll love your time on the island.