I love the island of Zakynthos and try to get there every year. It has the perfect holiday mix for me and my partner, but here I want to show you why I recommend hiring a car in Zakynthos. There isn't an easy way to get around that's the short answer and I don't feel that renting quads is safe - at least not for me. Many people do without issue. The bus system isn't any good to get you to the spots across the island. You MUST visit the best spots in Zakynthos as you have spent a lot of time and money to get there. Car rental is cheap and easy, driving is easy too.
Renting a car in Zakynthos - Should YOU?
For most people, the answer is yes, you should rent a car in Zakynthos. I can't think of anyone who shouldn't maybe if you are a very nervous driver then some of the streets around Zante town might cause stress but they are ok for most people and you can avoid going to Zante town too. Of course, if you are a large family then renting a minivan may be more appropriate.
Reasons to rent a car
- You can park easily, it's not one of those places where you are likely to get a ticket or an automatic fine for being in the wrong lane, just one of the reasons I love being there.
- It's low cost- so you can take a car for the whole week and not worry if you stay for a day or two without using it.
- You feel free, and go where you want when you want.
- To discover some of the best places like those mentioned in our Zakynthos Guide (Xigia Beach, Kalamaki) you will need to get there by yourself.
Getting Started
You can organize your car before arrival. It is better to pre-arrange a car because you will get a better choice of vehicle and the process takes away precious time on holibobs. We have made the mistake of leaving it late sometimes and then had to settle for a car we wouldn't prefer to have. I recommend booking a car through DiscoverCars.com it's going to get you the best car for your budget that fits what you need.
If you are just a couple travelling it is very easy as most cars will be suitable. Then you can shop on your own budget.
Check which fuel it has and make sure you only fill up using the correct matching fuel. This is a costly mistake to make, never try to run a car on the wrong fuel.
Checks to make when you pick up the car
Take a quick video around the whole car, the corners where bumps and scratches will occur and may already exist should be noted on the agreement you sign as pre-damage. Take a video of the dash showing the mileage and fuel in it.
Video check your rental car before pickup
Signing The Agreement
Look at the agreement before you sign it. Understand any insurance coverage and what excess there will be if someone else hits your car it a car park. It may be out of your control.
Driving in Zakynthos
Drive on the right side of the road, which is opposite to UK drivers. Don't feel pressure to drive faster than you want. It goes without saying that you should not use your mobile whilst driving! Unless you can rig it hands-free. So maybe take a mobile phone car mount and use Google Maps as your mobile phone navigator.
Tips
Take a dash cam- not only may you have some evidence if you are involved in an accident that was not your fault.
Rental companies operating in Zakynthos
The following operators give their cheapest prices in GBP for 1 week in July 2024 which is high season.
ABBYCAR £216.18, Alamo £238.32, Alma Car Hire £277.77, Autocandia £292.66, Autounion £237.80, Avance £292.66, Avis £341.36, Budget £292.50, DRIVE S.A. £295.73, Dirent a car Greece £222.98, EXER £233.23, Enterprise £273.86, Europcar £366.64, GreenMotion £212.37, Hertz £315.80, Idea Mobility £243.56, National £314.63, OK Mobility £270.81, Record-go £321.29, SIXT £278.72, Surprice £621.62, Thrifty £282.31, WheeGo £234.21, Yours Car Rental £251.06