Zante Car Hire

What’s better way to to enjoy your Zante holiday than to explore the spectacular landscapes of Zante or the Zakynthos, as it is known in the local dialect, than in a self-driven car? Renting a car in Zante is relatively simple, whether it is for arranging a pick-up from the airport, or for a planned excursion through the charming little villages and towns. Driving to a local taverna is an excellent way to sample the delicious local fare as it is effortless also to plan a trail to explore the exotic wildlife of this fascinating island and all that it has to offer.

It is advisable to book a car in advance as cars may not available at the last minute and this can be done online easily. Driving is on the right, and mopeds are available for hire as well. While choosing a car, it is important to be satisfied about the condition of the vehicle. Zante, as in all Ionian Islands, is notorious for maintaining the cars at minimum; it is a good idea for the tourist to inspect the condition of the car before accepting it. The insurance status should be checked (should possess third party & theft insurance) before driving off.

Major car rentals have their offices in the island itself, and there are numerous smaller players who offer cheaper fares to undercut the bigger organizations. Sometimes the returned cars from the cheaper rentals are not checked before being rushed to a new client, so the traveler should be wary of parts that may be damaged or missing. Very often, the car insurance may not cover the tyres, exhaust, windscreen, and undercarriage, especially if the car is from one of the local car rentals, and it is good to be warned in advance. The prices of the rentals should also include taxes. 

Many car rentals are really reliable offering a friendly English-speaking service, guides and maps that are really helpful to find the most pleasant ways around Zante. Cars that offer DVD and CD Explorer packs, downloadable and printable guides and trails and full size color maps in English are advantageous in getting to know the island well. Though many tourists love it in an open-type car that allows to absorb the surroundings fully, it is advisable to opt for a jeep kind of vehicle, as “cabriolets” in Zante are small hatchback cars with the roof replaced with a canvas covering!

Travel around the island is possible in a day, with a stop for lunch at any traverna of choice, and of course, stops to truly admire the impressive landscapes with refreshing swimming breaks in the pristine beaches. The total distance to completely see the island is about 200 kms only, enough to keep the driver motivated, but not too much as to be physically tiring.