Guide to Kythira: How to get to the island of Aphrodite
Kythira (or Tsirigo), the island where according to mythology the goddess Aphrodite was born, is one of the most magical and untouched destinations in Greece. Located where three seas meet—the Ionian, the Aegean, and the Cretan—it offers a unique beauty that straddles the line between Cycladic architecture and Ionian sophistication.
Our travel team lives permanently on the island, has driven all the routes through the Peloponnese repeatedly, and has gathered all the updated information for 2026. Although Kythira gives the feeling of a secluded paradise, access is easier than you might think. See all the updated itineraries for Kythira and depending on your time, budget and departure point, you can choose between a plane, a ship or a combination of a car and a short sea trip.
1. By Road & By Ferry via Peloponnese: The Big Dilemma (Neapoli or Gythio?)
If you decide to take your car and head down to Laconia, you will be faced with two main options. The choice between Neapoli and Gytheio depends entirely on whether you prefer to drive more or spend more time on the boat.
Let’s take a closer look at the difference to choose the one that suits you:
A) Via Neapoli: More road, less boat
This is the most popular route for most travelers, as it minimizes time at sea.
- The road route: To reach Neapoli from Athens, you will need approximately 4 to 4.5 hours driving. The road after Sparta and as you approach the southern tip of Laconia has several bends, narrows and mountain passes, making the road distance the longer and more tiring of the two options.
- The sea route: The big advantage! From Neapolis, the Triton Ferries ship (F/B Porfyrousa) will take you across to the port of Diakofti on Kythira in just 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Frequency: Daily and very regular itineraries (up to 3-4 per day during the high summer season).
- Ideal for: Those who want to quickly get used to the boat or are traveling with children and pets who get dizzy at sea.
See the detailed itineraries of the PORPHYROSA ship from Neapolis to Kythira.
B) Via Gytheio: Better road, longer route by boat
An excellent alternative that offers a much more relaxing and safe road experience.
- The road route: The drive to Gythio is noticeably easier and shorter. From Athens it will take you about 3 hours, as you take advantage of the modern A7 motorway (Lefktro – Sparta). The road is relaxing, with minimal bends and high levels of safety.
- The sea route: Here the ratio is reversed. The Seajets boat trip (F/B Aqua Jewel) from Gytheio to Kythira is longer and takes approximately 2.5 hours due to the distance.
- Frequency: The routes are less frequent than to Neapolis (usually 1-2 times a week, so strict planning is required).
- Ideal for: Those who want a relaxed drive without the pressure of provincial turns and enjoy the journey and comforts of a larger ship.
See the AQUA JEWEL ferry itineraries in detail from Gytheio to Kythira
2. Alternative Ferry Routes
If you do not want to drive to the Peloponnese at all, there are the following options for the port of Kythira (Diakofti):
- From the port of Piraeus: The Seajets AQUA JEWEL ferry connects Athens directly to Kythira. The journey time is approximately 6.5 to 7 hours and mainly serves those who prefer not to use a car at all to the port.
- From Crete (Kissamos, Chania): Kythira is also connected to the main island 1-2 times a week, with the journey taking approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it an ideal opportunity for island hopping.
3. By Air: Fast and Easy
If your time is limited, Kythira has the State”Alexander Aristotelous Onassis” Airport (KIT).
- From Athens: The flight takes just 45-50 minutes with daily flights by Olympic Air and Sky Express during the summer months.
- From Thessaloniki: There are frequent direct seasonal flights or flights with a stopover in Athens.
⚠️ Please note: The airport is approximately 20 km from Chora. Because public transport (local buses) on the island is extremely limited, it is essential to have arranged a car rental or taxi in advance.
Summary: What should I choose in the end?
- Choose Neapoli if you prefer to “take” the car route (despite the turns) so that you can get on the boat for only 1.15 hours.
- Choose Gythio if you want a safe and relaxing way to drive and you don’t mind staying on the boat for 2.5 hours.
- Choose Plane for maximum speed and comfort.
Tip from our team: Especially for the Neapoli line, book your car tickets several times in advance. weeks in advance, as the garage at F/B Porfyrousa is limited and places sell out quickly!
