Getting from Zakynthos to Kefalonia

If you are heading to Kefalonia from Zakynthos you are making your way from one of the most beautiful of the Ionian islands to the largest island in the same sea, just a short distance to the north. It is mountainous with dramatic cliffs, turquoise bays and some of the finest beaches in Greece.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Zakynthos to Kefalonia running in summer between Agios Nikolaos on the northeastern tip of Zakynthos and Pessada on the southern coast of Kefalonia, taking around 1 hour 45 minutes and running 3 to 7 times a week. It is the most natural sea connection between the two islands and keeps the journey entirely within the Ionian without going through the mainland. Alternatively take the ferry from Zakynthos to Kyllini and then the ferry from Kyllini to Kefalonia, which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes and runs up to 4 daily crossings.

Getting there by air

Kefalonia has an international airport with connections from Athens. Zakynthos has an international airport with connections from Athens. Flying from Zakynthos to Athens and then Athens to Kefalonia takes around 45 minutes on the second leg. Total journey time is around 4 to 5 hours. In Greece, airlines do not operate direct inter island flights.

Your best option

Take the seasonal direct ferry from Zakynthos to Kefalonia via Agios Nikolaos and Pessada when the schedule works for your dates. It is the most natural and enjoyable connection and keeps the journey entirely within the Ionian. If the timing does not align, take the ferry from Zakynthos to Kyllini and then the ferry from Kyllini to Kefalonia. If you are traveling with a car both the direct seasonal ferry and the Kyllini route carry vehicles.