Cheap Car Hire in Zakynthos, Greece
Welcome to Zakynthos: The Jewel of the Ionian Sea!
Welcome to Zakynthos, a stunning Greek island that lies in the Ionian Sea, known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and rich cultural heritage. This beautiful destination offers visitors a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, fascinating history, and lively nightlife. From the iconic Navagio Beach with its dramatic shipwreck to the charming town of Zakynthos City, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. To fully explore the island and its hidden treasures, renting a car is an excellent choice. By booking a hire car in advance, you can enjoy the freedom of roaming Zakynthos at your own pace. Collecting your vehicle at Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), the island’s main gateway, is simple and convenient. The airport offers a range of car hire services, allowing you to pick up your car as soon as you land.
Whether you plan to explore the lively streets of Zakynthos City, discover the island's natural beauty, or head off on a road trip to nearby towns and attractions, your rental car will give you the flexibility you need. From quaint villages to remote beaches, you can visit the sites that interest you most without being bound by public transport schedules. Zakynthos offers a wide variety of attractions that are best explored by car such as Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), an iconic sandy stretch often featured in travel magazines for its dramatic scenery. The turquoise waters and the shipwreck on the shore make it one of the most photographed beaches in the world. To reach it, you’ll need to drive to a nearby viewpoint and take a boat to the beach. Located on the northern tip of the island, the Blue Caves are famous for their vibrant blue waters, which are caused by sunlight reflecting off the white rocks. You can access these caves by boat, but the drive to the nearby port is an adventure in itself. On the southern coast, the Keri Caves are a series of sea caves accessible by boat. While you’re in the area, don’t miss Marathonisi, a small island known for its turtle population. Both can be reached via a scenic drive from Zakynthos City. The island’s capital is a great place to explore Greek culture. The charming streets are lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, offering plenty of shopping and dining opportunities. Don’t miss the beautiful Solomos Square, which hosts several important landmarks like the Byzantine Museum. Located on a hill overlooking Zakynthos Town, the Venetian Castle offers sweeping views of the island. It’s a great spot for history buffs and photography enthusiasts. A beautiful and peaceful beach located in the southern part of the island, Gerakas Beach is famous for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It's also a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Known for its unique shape resembling a turtle, Marathonisi Island is a protected nature reserve and a popular spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility.
Driving in Zakynthos
Driving in Zakynthos is relatively straightforward, making it an ideal destination for car hire. The island has a well-developed road network, although some of the more rural areas and coastal roads can be narrow, so be sure to drive cautiously. Road signs are in Greek and English, which makes navigation easier for international visitors. The island drives on the right-hand side of the road, so be prepared if you’re more accustomed to left-hand driving. Traffic can be heavy in popular tourist areas, particularly in Zakynthos City during the summer months, so plan your trips accordingly to avoid congestion. In the more rural parts of the island, you’ll find peaceful, scenic drives, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Make sure to inspect your rental car upon pickup to note any existing damages and to ensure it’s in good condition for your trip. While the main roads are in good condition, some of the island’s rural roads can be narrow and winding. Take your time when driving in these areas, especially when encountering other vehicles. The speed limit on the island is generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas and 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads. However, it’s important to always follow posted road signs as limits can change.
Gas stations are located throughout Zakynthos, particularly in and around the larger towns, but they may be less frequent in more rural areas, so be sure to keep your tank topped up, especially if you're heading to more remote locations. There are no toll roads on Zakynthos. Parking in Zakynthos is usually available, but it can be challenging to find free parking in busy tourist spots like the town centre and popular beaches. Many restaurants, shops, and attractions offer paid parking, and you might encounter local parking attendants who help with parking for a small tip.
Tips and FAQs
With its blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and accessible roads, Zakynthos is the perfect destination for a road trip. Renting a car allows you to explore its beaches, towns, and scenic vistas at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Whether you're driving to the famous shipwreck beach or discovering quiet coves, Zakynthos has something to offer every traveller.
Zakynthos, Greece
Population: Approximately 40,000 (Island-wide)
Annual Visitor Figures: Over 1.5 million international visitors
Average Summer Temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
Average Winter Temperatures: 14°C (57°F)
Time Zone: GMT +2 (Eastern European Time)
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