How To Get From Athens to Kalamata (& Kalamata to Athens)

This detailed transportation guide tells you how to get from Athens to Kalamata and how to travel from Kalamata to Athens.

When you arrive in Athens, you have a million and one things you can choose to do. After all, there’s more than enough to keep you occupied in the capital! But if you want to venture further (definitely a good idea), then Kalamata is a popular choice.

Kalamata is the second biggest city by population in the Peloponnese area and is a famous spot for coastal breaks with locals and tourists alike. The area is also world-famous for its olives, so definitely give those a try!

There is plenty to see and do in Kalamata, and it’s a good choice for anyone who has spent a few days in bustling Athens and wants to chill out and enjoy some time by the sea.

But how do you get from A to B?

How To Travel From Athens To Kalamata (& Kalamata To Athens)

Driving From Athens To Kalamata

The easiest option is to take your own car or hire a car and drive yourself. The road used to be quite challenging to follow, but it’s a straightforward journey thanks to a new, modern toll road.

Depending on traffic, the travel time is between 2 hours, 40 minutes, and 3 hours. During the weekends or public holidays, you’ll find traffic is much busier as locals descend upon the coast for some beach time!

Follow the A7 road, which has toll booths. The price is around 15 euros; you can pay by cash, debit, or credit card.

The road is also quite scenic, and you will pass by several interesting places worth exploring. The Ancient Corinth Canal is one of them.

The driving distance between Athens and Kalamata depends on the specific route you take, as some multiple roads and highways can be used for the journey. Generally, the driving distance is approximately 240 to 270 kilometers (about 149 to 168 miles).

Once you arrive in Kalamata, you probably won’t need to drive during your stay; everything is very close together and walkable. So, park up or return your rental car and enjoy!

Athens To Kalamata By Bus

The bus is convenient and quick if you don’t want to drive and enjoy a cheaper option. KTEL Messinias runs buses, and coaches are comfortable and air-conditioned. You can purchase your ticket in advice from the bus station or online; tickets cost 25 euros for a one-way trip and 43 euros for a return. Buses frequently run throughout the day during the summer months, although they are much less frequent during winter. 

Buses take around three hours; however, as with driving, you may encounter traffic that makes your journey a little longer. Times are also subject to change, so check online before visiting.

If you want to head back to Athens, book the KTEL bus service, which runs very frequently throughout the day.

Flying From Athens To Kalamata

If you want to cut out the driving entirely, flight routes are available during summer. Previously, there were no direct flights between the two cities, but in the summer of 2023. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines ran services four times per week between Athens and Kalamata. They started in June and stopped in September. I expect it will be the same for 2024.

During the winter months, very few international and domestic flights are available from Athens Airport to Kalamata Airport.

Kalamata International Airport has many connections to European cities during the peak season, including London, Manchester, Moscow, Zurich, Milan, Amsterdam, Paris, and Vienna. However, if you’re landing in Athens and want to fly to Kalamata, now you can.

Private Transfers Between Kalamata And Athens

Let’s talk about private transfers between Kalamata and Athens. For sure, this is the quickest way to travel.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece and looking for a smooth, easy, and hassle-free way to get between these two cities, private transfers might be the ticket.

I can vouch for this option personally, as I opted for it during my visit this year, and I can tell you, it’s a game-changer.

First things first, forget about the stress of navigating public transportation schedules, worrying about crowded buses, or planning the travel route. With a private transfer, you get the comfort of knowing that a reliable driver will be there to pick you up from your chosen location in Kalamata and drop you off right where you need to be in Athens, or vice versa. I made a 15-minute stop to go to the toilet and grab a coffee – it was too easy.

As you can see, of all of the various options I noted, you can see I mentioned nothing about a train connection – that is because there are no trains between Kalamata and Athens.

Happy travels on the road between these two Greek gems! I hope this travel guide has made your journey planning a breeze. Whether you’re savoring Kalamata olives, exploring the historic Greek capital, or simply finding the best route to suit your adventures, may your travel experience be smooth and enjoyable, regardless of the number of passengers in your party. Safe travels, and Opa!