Driving in Zakynthos gives you the freedom to explore the island’s hidden beaches, mountain villages, and sunset viewpoints at your own pace. However, 2026 has brought some of the most significant changes to Greek traffic laws in decades. Whether you’re hopping on a quad bike or renting a car, staying on the right side of the law is essential to avoid the massive new fines.
You can rent a variety of vehicles in Laganas, Kalamaki, and Zante Town.
Cars: Minimum age is typically 21 (sometimes 23 depending on the provider).
Quad Bikes & Scooters: Minimum age is 18 with a full license.
Rental Tips: Always check for “Full Insurance” (CDW). For 2026, most reputable agencies like 4Rentals or Stamatis include roadside assistance as standard.
Side of the road: Always drive on the right-hand side.
Greece has introduced a new “Road Safety Culture” for 2026.
Urban Areas: 30 km/h (previously 50 km/h) on most city and resort streets. Look for the new signs!
Main Urban Roads: 50 km/h (only where specifically posted).
Open Rural Roads: 90 km/h.
Mainland Motorways: 110–130 km/h (Note: There are no motorways on Zante).
EU/UK Drivers: Your standard photo card license is sufficient.
Non-EU (USA/Australia/Canada): You must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Rental agencies may refuse your booking without it.
Carry at all times: Passport, Rental Agreement, and Insurance documents.
Alcohol Limit: 0.05% for standard drivers. For anyone who has held a license for less than 3 years, the limit is a strict 0.02% (virtually zero).
Helmets & Seatbelts: Compulsory for everyone. The fine is now 350 €, and the police in Laganas are extremely active in enforcing this for 2026.
Mobile Phones: Strictly hands-free only. No holding the phone at traffic lights.
Roundabouts: In Greece, traffic entering the roundabout has priority unless there is a “Stop” or “Give Way” sign for the entering traffic. This is the opposite of many other countries!
Fuel: Expect to pay between 1.85 € and 2.10 € per litre for Unleaded 95 in 2026. Petrol stations on the main road to Kalamaki are usually cheaper than those in the mountain villages.
Tolls: None on the island.
Fines: Under the new 2026 code, fines are linked to the severity. Speeding by 20 km/h is 150 €, while major violations (running a red light) can exceed 700 € and result in the immediate removal of your license plates.
Book Early: For the 2026 season, vehicle availability becomes scarce by June. Aim to book by March or April.
Local vs Global: While brands like Avis are available, local agencies often offer more flexible “cash on arrival” options and more lenient deposit rules.
Are road signs in English? Yes, all major direction and warning signs are in both Greek and English.
What are the roads like in 2026? The main roads connecting Laganas and Zante Town are good. However, the mountain roads toward the Blue Caves or Shipwreck Viewpoint are narrow, winding, and can be very slippery when dusty.
Can I park anywhere? No. Parking is prohibited within 5m of a junction or 15m of a bus stop. In Zante Town, look for designated parking lots; the police are known to remove license plates of illegally parked rental cars in 2026.
Where do I pay a fine? Police cannot collect cash. You must pay at a local Post Office (ELTA) or a Public Treasury office within 10 days.
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