Rent a car with MyCarRentals and easily reach the Peloponnesian ferry ports connecting to Kythira island. We offer flexible collection from Kalamata Airport, unlimited mileage, and clear pricing with zero hidden fees. Ask us about taking your rental car on the Neapolis ferry to explore the island of Aphrodite.
Kythira is a magical island situated at the crossroads of the Ionian and Aegean seas, just beneath the Peloponnese. Historically isolated, it boasts incredible Venetian castles, deep gorges with waterfalls, and spectacular, uncrowded beaches. Because reaching Kythira requires taking a ferry from either Neapolis or Gytheio in the southern Peloponnese, securing a reliable rental car for the mainland journey—and for exploring the island itself—is essential. MyCarRentals provides the perfect transportation solution to get your island adventure started.
Seamless Mainland to Island Transit
The journey to the ferry ports of Neapolis or Gytheio is a beautiful road trip through Laconia. Here is our advantage:
- Ferry Authorization: Many rental companies forbid their cars from boarding ferries. We offer pre-authorized maritime insurance coverage, allowing you to take your MyCarRentals vehicle directly onto the ship to Kythira.
- Absolute Transparency: We operate strictly without hidden fees. The final price on your booking includes all necessary taxes and standard insurance terms.
- Airport Convenience: Skip the terrible cross-country bus connections. We can hand you the keys at Kalamata Airport (KLX), allowing you to drive directly to the port on your own schedule.
Driving Around Kythira Island
Kythira is a deceptively large island with a highly mountainous interior. A rental car is mandatory to see its best sights:
- Chora and Kapsali: Drive to the island’s capital, Chora, dominated by a massive Venetian castle, and drop down to the twin bays of Kapsali for dinner.
- Fonissa Waterfalls: Navigate to the lush village of Mylopotamos and hike down to the magical Neraida (Fonissa) waterfall hidden in the gorge.
- Kaladi Beach: Access one of Greece’s most striking pebble beaches, accessible via a steep set of stairs descending from the cliffside parking area.
- Avlemonas: A picturesque coastal village featuring a small Venetian fortress and beautiful, swimmable rocky inlets reminiscent of the Cyclades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Am I allowed to take the rental car on the ferry to Kythira?
Yes, it is possible. However, you MUST inform us during the booking process that you intend to travel to Kythira. This allows us to authorize the vehicle for maritime transport and ensure you are covered by the correct insurance policy while at sea.
Is driving on Kythira island difficult?
Kythira features a well-paved main road network connecting the primary villages. However, many of the best beaches (like Kaladi or Melidoni) require driving on narrow, winding, and sometimes steep roads. Careful driving is required, and an automatic car is highly recommended.
Which port should I drive to for the Kythira ferry?
The most frequent and direct ferry crossing is from the port of Neapolis in Laconia (approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes crossing time). There is also a longer ferry connection from the port of Gytheio, though sailings are less frequent.
Can I rent the car directly on Kythira island?
MyCarRentals primarily operates out of mainland Messinia (Kalamata). While we facilitate rentals that travel to the island, we do not maintain a permanent office at the Kythira airport or port. You must pick the car up from our mainland locations.
