Complete Guide to Zante's Bus Network: Routes, Fares, and Travel Times

Planning to explore the beautiful Greek island of Zante (Zakynthos) without renting a car? The island's public bus network offers an affordable and convenient way to discover Zante's most popular destinations. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about navigating between Laganas, Zante Town, Kalamaki, Argassi, Tsilivi, and Alykanas by bus.

Zante's Bus System Overview

The public transportation on Zante is operated by KTEL Zakynthos, the island's official bus service. While not as extensive as bus networks in larger European cities, it efficiently connects the main tourist areas and offers a budget-friendly alternative to taxis and car rentals.

Main Bus Routes and Destinations

Zante Town to Laganas Route

Journey time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Frequency: Every 30 minutes during summer peak season (June-September), hourly during shoulder seasons

Operating times:

• First bus from Zante Town: 7:00 AM

• Last bus from Zante Town: 10:30 PM

• First bus from Laganas: 7:30 AM

• Last bus from Laganas: 11:00 PM

  
  

  Key stops:

• Zante Town (main terminal)

• Kalamaki (10-15 minutes from Zante Town)

• Laganas central strip (final stop)

This is the busiest and most frequent route on the island, connecting the capital with the popular resort area of Laganas. Buses stop at several points along the main road in Kalamaki, making it convenient for travellers staying in this area.

Zante Town to Argassi Route

Journey time: 10-15 minutes

Frequency: Hourly service throughout the day

Operating times:

• First bus from Zante Town: 7:15 AM

• Last bus from Zante Town: 10:00 PM

• First bus from Argassi: 7:30 AM

• Last bus from Argassi: 10:15 PM

  
  

  Key stops:

• Zante Town (main terminal)

• Argassi (final stop)

This short journey connects the capital with the resort town of Argassi. Buses typically stop at multiple points along the main road in Argassi, near major hotels and the beach area.

Zante Town to Tsilivi Route

Journey time: 15-20 minutes

Frequency: Hourly service (more frequent during peak season)

Operating times:

• First bus from Zante Town: 7:30 AM

• Last bus from Zante Town: 9:30 PM

• First bus from Tsilivi: 8:00 AM

• Last bus from Tsilivi: 10:00 PM

  
  

  Key stops:

• Zante Town (main terminal)

• Tsilivi central area (final stop)

Tsilivi has become increasingly popular with tourists, and this route services the growing demand. The bus stops near the main beach area and restaurant district.

Zante Town to Alykanas Route

Journey time: 30-35 minutes

Frequency: 5-6 buses daily during summer, fewer in off-season

Operating times:

• First bus from Zante Town: 8:00 AM

• Last bus from Zante Town: 8:00 PM

• First bus from Alykanas: 8:45 AM

• Last bus from Alykanas: 8:45 PM

  
  

  Key stops:

• Zante Town (main terminal)

• Alykes (25 minutes from Zante Town)

• Alykanas (final stop)

This northern route takes you to the more relaxed resorts of Alykes and Alykanas. The journey offers scenic views of the coastline and rural landscapes.

Bus Fares and Payment Methods

Ticket Prices

Ticket prices on Zante buses are very reasonable:

• Zante Town to Laganas/Kalamaki: €1.80 one-way

• Zante Town to Argassi: €1.60 one-way

• Zante Town to Tsilivi: €1.80 one-way

• Zante Town to Alykanas: €2.20 one-way

How to Pay

Unlike many European bus systems, Zante's buses operate with a very straightforward payment system:

• Cash payment to the driver upon boarding (euros only)

• No advance ticket purchase necessary

• No ticket machines at stops

• No contactless or card payment options available

Important note: Always carry small bills or coins, as drivers may not have change for large notes, especially during morning runs.

Bus Schedules and Seasonal Changes

Summer Season (June-September)

During the peak tourist season, buses operate with the highest frequency:

• Zante Town Bus Terminal operating hours: 6:30 AM - 11:00 PM

• Laganas Bus Stop operating hours: 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM

• Kalamaki Bus Stops operating hours: 7:15 AM - 10:45 PM

• Argassi Bus Stop operating hours: 7:30 AM - 10:15 PM

• Tsilivi Bus Stop operating hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

• Alykanas Bus Stop operating hours: 8:45 AM - 8:45 PM

Shoulder Season (April-May, October)

Reduced but still regular service:

• Zante Town Bus Terminal operating hours: 7:00 AM - 9:30 PM

• Laganas Bus Stop operating hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

• Kalamaki Bus Stops operating hours: 7:45 AM - 9:45 PM

• Argassi Bus Stop operating hours: 7:45 AM - 9:00 PM

• Tsilivi Bus Stop operating hours: 8:15 AM - 8:30 PM

• Alykanas Bus Stop operating hours: 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM (reduced frequency)

Winter Season (November-March)

Significantly reduced service:

• Zante Town Bus Terminal operating hours: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM

• Laganas Bus Stop operating hours: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM (limited service)

• Kalamaki Bus Stops operating hours: 8:15 AM - 6:15 PM (limited service)

• Argassi Bus Stop operating hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (limited service)

• Tsilivi Bus Stop operating hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (very limited service)

• Alykanas Bus Stop operating hours: Limited to 2-3 buses per day, primarily morning and mid-afternoon

Bus Stops and How to Identify Them

Bus stops on Zante are typically marked with:

• Blue sign with bus symbol

• Simple bench or shelter at major stops

• No electronic displays or real-time information

In Zante Town, the main bus terminal is located near the port, making it easy to find. In resort areas, buses typically stop along the main roads near major hotels, beaches, and restaurant districts.

Practical Tips for Using Zante Buses

Boarding and Riding

• Stand at the designated stop and clearly signal the driver

• Board through the front door

• Tell the driver your destination when paying

• Listen for announcements as stops aren't always announced electronically

• Press the stop button when approaching your destination

Luggage and Capacity

• Buses have limited luggage space

• During peak season, buses to/from Laganas can become crowded

• Consider avoiding rush hours (morning and early evening) if traveling with large luggage

Reliability Factors

• Buses generally run on time but can experience delays during peak season

• Allow extra time for important connections like ferry or airport transfers

• The last buses of the day rarely run late, so don't cut it too close

Special Considerations for Each Area

Laganas

• The bus stop is centrally located on the main strip

• Operating hours: 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM (summer), reduced in off-season

• During late night/early morning hours (after buses stop), taxis are the only public transport option

• Journey to Zante Town is direct and straightforward

Kalamaki

• Buses stop at several points along the main road

• Operating hours: 7:15 AM - 10:45 PM (summer), reduced in off-season

• Walking distance to bus stops can vary depending on your accommodation

• Often shares the same bus route as Laganas

Argassi

• Compact resort with bus stops along the main road

• Operating hours: 7:30 AM - 10:15 PM (summer), reduced in off-season

• Quick and frequent connections to Zante Town

• Limited direct connections to other resorts (may require changing in Zante Town)

Tsilivi

• Bus stops primarily along the main road

• Operating hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (summer), reduced in off-season

• May require walking from beach areas to the main road

• Good connection to Zante Town but may need to change for other destinations

Alykanas

• Less frequent service than southern resorts

• Operating hours: 8:45 AM - 8:45 PM (summer), significantly reduced in off-season

• Bus stops in the village centre

• Consider checking return times carefully as evening services are limited

Recommended Journeys and Combinations

For travellers wanting to explore multiple areas in one day:

• Zante Town + Argassi combo: Easy half-day trip due to short journey time

• Laganas + Kalamaki combo: These areas share the same bus route

• Northern exploration: Visit Tsilivi and continue to Alykanas, returning to Zante Town in the evening

Conclusion: Is the Bus Right for Your Zante Holiday?

Zante's bus system is ideal for:

• Budget-conscious travellers

• Those staying in main resort areas

• Day trips to Zante Town for shopping and sightseeing

• Visitors who prefer not to drive on unfamiliar roads

For maximum flexibility, particularly if staying in remote areas or wanting to explore hidden beaches, consider supplementing bus travel with occasional taxis or a rental car. However, for most visitors staying in the main tourist areas, the bus network provides sufficient coverage to enjoy the island's most popular attractions without breaking the budget.

Remember that schedules can change seasonally, so it's always worth double-checking current timetables at your hotel reception or the main bus terminal in Zante Town for the most up-to-date information.