Zakynthos is more than just an island with beautiful beaches. It’s a mosaic of lush landscapes, charming mountain villages, dramatic sea caves, and winding roads that reward you with unforgettable views at every turn. To truly explore it, you need just one thing: a car and the freedom to use it.
Whether you arrive by ferry from Kyllini or by flight, a car rental is the key to discovering Zakynthos beyond the usual tourist routes. Sync makes it easy to choose a vehicle that suits your trip — from small economy cars to spacious SUVs and vans ideal for families or groups of friends.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the island’s best drives — from iconic beaches to hidden inland gems — proving that on Zakynthos, every road leads to something worth seeing.
1. Zakynthos Town to Keri – For Sea Views and Sunsets
Starting from the island’s capital, this route takes you south through olive groves and quaint villages to the charming area of Keri, famous for its lighthouse and stunning sunsets. Along the way, you can stop for a swim at Marathias beach, rent a boat to visit the Keri Caves, or spot sea turtles if you're lucky.
If you're traveling with kids or friends and need room for gear like snorkels, coolers, or even a drone, renting a van is a smart move. Sync makes it easy to rent a car that offers both comfort and space — so you can enjoy the ride just as much as the destination.
2. North to Cape Skinari – For Caves and Clear Blue Waters
Northern Zakynthos is wild and raw in the best possible way. Driving from Zakynthos Town to Cape Skinari, you’ll pass traditional villages like Katastari and Volimes before reaching the tiny port of Agios Nikolaos. From here, small boats depart to the famous Blue Caves, with their surreal turquoise glow.
This is one of the island’s most breathtaking drives, where every curve reveals something more dramatic. And with your own car rental, you’re free to stop wherever the view calls your name — no schedules, no stress.
3. Laganas to Kalamaki – For Families and Calm Waters
For those traveling with children or seeking organized beaches with shallow waters, the drive from Laganas to Kalamaki is perfect. These two spots are close together, but the route includes a stop at the Zakynthos National Marine Park, a protected nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.
Kalamaki Beach offers soft sand, crystal-clear water, and a peaceful setting for young swimmers. There’s convenient parking, beach bars, and family-friendly tavernas.
4. Mountain Villages – The Other Side of Zakynthos
Beyond the coastline, the heart of Zakynthos beats in its mountain villages. Take the road from Machairado to Loucha and Giri, and discover an untouched world of cypress trees, stone houses, and sweeping views over the Ionian Sea.
These places don’t make it to travel brochures, but they offer something much deeper: authenticity. Picture a local café with elderly men playing backgammon, children chasing a ball in the square, and the scent of lemon leaves in the air.
For this kind of exploration, a reliable car rental is essential. Narrow roads, unexpected turns, and scenic stops are best navigated at your own pace — and with a good GPS.
5. Porto Roxa & Porto Limnionas – Wild West Coast Beauty
On the west coast of the island, the roads lead to dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and water so blue it looks unreal. Porto Limnionas, in particular, is a natural fjord surrounded by rocks and sea caves, perfect for adventurous swimmers.
The drive there, passing through mountain villages and winding roads, is as impressive as the destination. Parking is available at both Porto Limnionas and Porto Roxa, and a local taverna provides a place to relax after your swim.
There’s no public transport to these spots, and taxis are scarce — which makes having your own vehicle a must. With a car from Sync, you’re in control of your time and itinerary. That’s the real luxury of renting a car on Zakynthos.
6. Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) – The Iconic View You Can Drive To
No trip to Zakynthos is complete without a visit to Navagio, or Shipwreck Beach — one of the most photographed spots in all of Greece. While you can’t drive directly to the beach itself (it's only accessible by boat), you can drive to the famous cliff-top viewpoint above it.
The drive from Zakynthos Town takes around 45–50 minutes, passing through olive groves and small villages. Once you reach the viewing area near Anafonitria, a short walk leads to the platform where you'll get that breathtaking aerial view of the cove, the turquoise waters, and the rusting shipwreck nestled in the sand.
If you're looking for something less touristy, take the road a bit further to explore hidden trails offering even more spectacular (and less crowded) perspectives.
Driving Tips for Zakynthos
- Fuel Up: Always keep an eye on your fuel level before heading into remote areas — gas stations can be sparse.
- Drive Carefully: Roads are generally safe but narrow. Take your time and be cautious on mountain routes.
- Offline Navigation: Have Google Maps or an offline app ready — some areas have weak signal.
- Parking: Most beaches offer designated parking, but during August, it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Zakynthos isn’t just about the places — it’s about the journey to reach them. It’s about the turns that reveal a new shade of blue, the unexpected villages along the way, and the freedom to go wherever the road takes you.
With a car rental from Sync, you unlock the full island experience. You're no longer limited to tour buses or timetables — you drive, you decide, you discover.
So pick your route, load your playlist, and hit the road. Zakynthos is waiting around every turn.
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