Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea that attracts thousands of tourists annually with its turquoise waters, the famous Navagio Shipwreck beach, and protected coastlines. Planning a trip and deciding how to get to Zakynthos is quite simple: the island has its own international airport and a well-established ferry connection with the mainland of Greece.

Regardless of whether you choose a quick flight, a bus trip with a ferry transfer, or an independent road trip, the journey here will be the start of an unforgettable vacation. The island is perfectly suited for both a relaxing family holiday and active adventures surrounded by unique nature.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is to fly into the international Zakynthos Airport (ZTH). This air hub serves over 2 million passengers annually, accepting many charter and scheduled flights from various European countries, especially during the high summer season. The airport is conveniently located close to the main resort zones, allowing you to start your relaxation almost immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are sold out, you can consider flying to nearby cities on the mainland with a subsequent transfer. For example, the airport in Patras (GPA) is 89 km away, while the air hubs in Preveza (PVK) and Kalamata (KLX) are located at a distance of 131 km and 136 km respectively. From these points, the journey continues via ground and water transport.

Since Zakynthos is an island, there is no direct railway connection to it, and there are no train stations here. The railway network in this region of Greece is not universally developed, so the train is not the most popular method to get directly to the resort.

However, those who enjoy scenic travel can take a train to major transport hubs on the mainland, such as Patras (89 km from the island). From there, you will need to transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the ferry crossing at the port of Kyllini, from where ships regularly depart for the shores of Zakynthos.

Bus service is an economical and quite convenient option to get to the island from the mainland, usually involving a ferry crossing. Regular routes connect the port of Kyllini (the main gateway to Zakynthos) with major cities, such as Patras and even the country's capital. This is an excellent way to view the picturesque landscapes of Greece from the window of comfortable transport.

Although there may not be direct bus routes right to your hotel, the intercity transport system (KTEL) works efficiently. Upon arriving at the bus station in Zakynthos town, you can easily transfer to local routes or a taxi to reach your desired resort or beach.

Traveling by car offers you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the views along the way. One of the most popular routes runs through Patras: the distance to the crossing point and then to the city is about 108 km, and the travel time will take approximately 2.6 hours. If you are driving from the city of Kalamata, be prepared to cover 202 km, spending about 3.8 hours on the road.

For those departing from Preveza, the journey will be longer — about 262 km and 4.4 hours on the road. Please note that to get to the island of Zakynthos, you will definitely need to use the car ferry from the port of Kyllini, so it is worth checking the schedule and ticket prices for vehicles in advance.

To ensure your vacation on this sunny island goes perfectly and without unnecessary hassle, we have prepared several important recommendations. These tips will help you adapt faster and get the maximum enjoyment from your trip to Zakynthos.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is Mediterranean, so for summer, pack light clothing made of natural fabrics, a head covering, and sunglasses. For evening walks by the sea, a light shawl or windbreaker might be useful.
2. Transport. The best way to explore the island's hidden coves is to rent a car or a quad bike. Public transport is available, but the schedule may not be the most convenient for an active tourist.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels, but it is better to always carry some cash for buying souvenirs in small shops or paying for transport.
4. Health and Safety. Be sure to use sunscreen with a high SPF, as the sun here is very strong. Pharmacies are available in all major villages, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication. The official language is Greek, but in tourist areas, staff speak English well. Learning a couple of words, for example, "Kalimera" (good morning), will surely endear you to the locals.
6. Ecology and Nature. Zakynthos is the habitat of the rare Caretta-Caretta turtles. Please be attentive on the beaches, observe the rules of protected zones, and do not disturb the animals.
7. What to Avoid. Do not drink tap water; it is better to buy bottled water. Also, avoid visiting popular attractions (like Navagio Beach) during the peak midday heat when the number of tourists is at its maximum.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to try the local olive oil and Ladotyri cheese — these are the gastronomic calling cards of the region, which also make for excellent souvenirs.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing — enjoying the beauty of the Ionian Sea and the hospitality of the local residents.