trips to zakynthos greece

The spectacular Shipwreck beach, accessible only by boat

The impressive Blue Caves of Zakynthos

The paradise-like islet of Marathonisi

TRENDING IN ZAKYNTHOS

Best beaches

Tours & Activities

Things to Do

Selection of restaurants

TRAVEL GUIDE TO ZAKYNTHOS

Housing the world-famous Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach and the endangered sea turtle species Caretta Caretta, Zakynthos (or Zante) is among the most popular and most beautiful islands in Greece. The exotic island of the Ionian Sea boasts spectacular nature, beaches, and villages.

To help you get ready for your trip, we provide a travel guide with all the essential information. Keep reading to find out everything about the island's hotels , sights , restaurants , beaches, and things to do, and discover a wide selection of breathtaking photos !

You can get to Zakynthos Island by plane from Athens and many European airports or by ferry from the port of Killini in the Peloponnese.

How to get there?

Best Hotels

Things To Do (12)

Where to Swim?

Sights & Attractions

Where to Eat & Drink?

OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN ZAKYNTHOS

Book your trip to Zakynthos with Greeka, the Greek islands specialists! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and from car rentals to ferry tickets, we provide all the essential services to make your travel to Santorini the most epic and smooth one. Our travel services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

ABOUT ZAKYNTHOS GREECE

Zakynthos is one of the most exotic Greek islands. Sitting adjacent to the Peloponnese in the mesmerizing Ionian Sea, it boasts a wonderful natural landscape and magical beaches . Exploring the island, you’ll discover picturesque hilltop villages, traditional monasteries and dreamy natural landscapes . What’s more, the beaches are home to the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles, which lay their eggs in the fine white sand every year.

The trademark of Zante, as the island is known in Italian, is the scenic Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach . Many pictures and postcards have tried to capture its beauty, but the reality is far better! Only accessible by boat, Navagio Beach has magical turquoise waters and white sand, surrounded by dramatic towering cliffs. While the view from above alone is simply breathtaking, you should also experience a dip in its enticingly clear water.

Apart from Shipwreck Beach, though, many more paradisiacal beaches are always open to visitors, including Laganas, Gerakas, Vasilikos and Spiantza . Some of these beaches are where the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles lay their eggs every spring and summer. You might be lucky enough to see them getting out of the sea to hide their eggs under the sand! In that case, you must not disturb them.

After exploring the emerald bays of the island, take a break from the beach life to visit Zakynthos Town , the capital of the island. Strongly influenced by the Venetians, who had also named the island "Fiore di Levante" (flower of the East), the Town has many hidden gems to explore! Saint Mark Square, the Venetian Castle, Solomos Square and the Post-Byzantine Museum are some of the best places to visit.

As for things to do, you’ll never run out of options! Partying, scuba diving, tours, and water sports will keep you entertained during your holidays! Get ready for an exotic holiday experience! Floating on the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, south of Kefalonia, Zakynthos is the closest to paradise on earth!

PHOTOS OF ZAKYNTHOS / SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES

Explore Zakynthos island through the lens of the talented members of the Greeka community . Share your experience with us or tag us #greekacom on your favorite social media.

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

Seafront hotels, luxury suites, resorts with swimming pools and modern villas are among the accommodation facilities of Zakynthos. Accommodation facilities for all budgets are usually located near the beach or in the mountains. The top areas to look for a place to stay in Zakynthos are the Town, Laganas and Tsilivi.

Some of the most popular hotels are: • Porto Zante   • Zante Maris Suites • Lesante Blu   • Denise Beach Hotel   • Eleon Grand

HOW TO GET TO ZANTE & MOVE AROUND

Zakynthos island has an International airport with flights from many European cities. Another way to reach Zakynthos is by ferry from the port of Killini in the Peloponnese. Book your ferry tickets with us !

Discover the different ways to get to Zakynthos:

HIGHLIGHTS: BEST OF ZANTE

Discover the highlights of Zakynthos! From sightseeing to activities and from tours to restaurants, we present you the best recommendations for the ultimate holiday experience! You can also view the best things to do .

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best destinations in Greece! Kefalonia and its neighbor, Ithaca, as well as Lefkada and Corfu are all members of the Ionian Island.

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Zakynthos Greece Travel Guide & How To Visit

The beautiful island of Zakynthos Greece has become famous for its picturesque shipwreck beach , but there are also many other things to do and see on this scenic island in the Ionian Sea.

Zakynthos features steep limestone cliffs, white pebble beaches, and some of the most colorful blue water you’ll ever see in your life. You can explore the sights on this island by boat or by land, and it’s relatively easy to get to Zakynthos from Athens.

To be fair, the island of Zakynthos has become a very popular and crowded summer tourist destination in Greece nowadays, but it’s still worth a visit for the bucket list sights and photo ops.

This travel blog will explain what to do in Zakynthos, how to get there, where to stay, best transport options and tour packages, and some of the top sights to see. I’ve also included a handy Zakynthos island map for trip planning!

Best Zakynthos Tour Packages

The coastline of Zakynthos is full of sea caves, beaches, and other wonderful sights that can only be seen with a boat tour.

We recommend GetYourGuide for boat tours in Zakynthos! They have high rated tours for all of the best sights like Navagio Beach , Blue Caves, Turtle Island, and more. These tours usually include free hotel pickup and drop-off from most of the popular areas in Zakynthos.

We’ve used this company for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Zakynthos Island Tour

Where Is Zakynthos Island?

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is an island located in the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece. The distance from Athens to Zakynthos is only about 240 kilometers (150 miles) as the plane flies.

There are a total of seven Ionian Islands in Greece, and Zakynthos is the most famous of these, but the other nearby islands like Kefalonia are also very scenic and worth a visit if you have time.

Myzithres Rocks — one of our favorite views of Zakynthos Greece

How To Get To Zakynthos Greece

Zakynthos island can be reached by flight or ferry.

Flying to Zakynthos is the easiest, fastest, and most expensive (but recommended) way to get there. The Zakynthos airport (ZTH) is served by daily nonstop flights from Athens, as well as some international cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Warsaw.

The flight time to Zakynthos from Athens is 1 hour, and it costs anywhere from 50 to 100 Euros for a one way ticket with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express.

The best airline to use is Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) instead of Sky Express if you have a choice, but any of them are fine. Free checked baggage is usually included in the ticket prices.

Shop Now: Zakynthos flights at Skyscanner

Drone view of Navagio point

Taking the ferry to Zakynthos from Athens is cheaper than flying, but it’s slower and a bit more complicated.

You first have to take a 4 hour bus ride from Athens to Kyllini (which costs 25 Euros), and then hop on the ferry there. The boat ride from Kyllini to Zakynthos takes around 1 hour and costs about 12 Euros.

If you’re interested in doing some island hopping in Greece and you want to see more than just Zakynthos, you can also mix up the itinerary a bit.

For example, you can fly into Zakynthos for a few days, take the ferry to Kefalonia , and then fly from Kefalonia back to Athens. That’s what we did, and it worked out great!

The coastline of Zakynthos Greece is full of surprises

Transport: How To Get Around On Zakynthos Island

Zakynthos town proper is small enough to be walkable by foot for restaurants and most other things, but if you want to do some exploring outside of town you’ll need transport.

The main way to get around on Zakynthos island is by renting a car or ATV (4 wheeler). There are many companies offering car rentals on the island, but we recommend DiscoverCars !

There’s also an affordable bus service offered by KTEL Zakynthos , although keep in mind some of the bus routes are seasonal (summer only). Their website has a full list of prices and routes on the island.

For short distance trips near town, you can walk to beaches, shops, and such places. There’s no Uber, but you can hire a taxi or book an airport transfer .

The limestone cliffs of Zakinthos island

Driving in Zakynthos is a little stressful, but not too hard, and most of the roads are in good condition. The west side of the island is more mountainous, so you’ll occasionally have steep roads with plenty of bends, but these are usually well paved.

A few remote roads on the west side of the island may still be gravel with occasional potholes, but even those roads are quickly improving as the island becomes more accessible and popular with travelers.

The main difficulty is driving in Zante town, where there’s more traffic and the roads are narrow, with lots of cars parked on both sides. Drive slowly in town and stay alert. Once you get out of town, the roads are smooth sailing for the most part.

Greeks drive on the right side of the road, similar to the US and Canada. The locals like to drive fast, and they frequently ignore speed limits and pass on double yellow lines. Just be aware of this, and move over to let them pass.

The bluest water in the world!

Since the law was changed in 2021, foreign tourists from Australia, Canada, UK and the United States do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Greece anymore.

The actual text of the new law (in Greek language) can be found in Law 4850, art. 25, par. η, page 10697 , and it’s also been confirmed by the U.S. Embassy in Greece .

With that said, it still doesn’t hurt to have an IDP for Zakynthos in case there’s confusion from the authorities or your local car rental company. Many people in Greece still seem to be unaware of this change.

The coastline of Zakynthos is stunningly beautiful, and many of the best sights on the island are worth touring by boat. You can rent a boat or join a shared tour at one of the many harbors on the island, or you can book tour packages online that include free hotel pickup and drop-off.  

Where To Stay In Zakynthos

Contessina Suites

Alykanas Beach Hotel

Zante Calinica Hotel

Vanessa Hotel

What To Do In Zakynthos Greece

• navagio viewpoint.

This famous shipwreck beach is what first put Zakynthos island on so many travelers’ bucket lists. It’s probably one of the most famous travel pictures in the world!

Navagio is a beautiful secluded beach surrounded by turquoise water and dramatic, winding cliffs. In the center of the beach sits a smuggler ship that ran aground during stormy weather in 1980.

If you’re mainly wanting to see the iconic postcard view and take photos of it, you can do that from a viewpoint on the cliffs high above the beach.

Navagio Viewpoint

You can drive to the Navagio viewpoint yourself, or book a tour package that includes the viewpoint along with several other sights in Zakynthos.

Keep in mind, it’s not possible to reach the beach itself from the viewpoint. There’s no path to go down to the beach, because the cliffs are too steep. The only way to walk on the beach is with a boat tour, and that’s explained below in more detail.

However, the viewpoint is still one of the best sights in Zakynthos, so you should definitely add it to your itinerary!

Read More: Navagio Viewpoint

Book Now: Navagio Beach & Viewpoint / Private Tour

Shipwreck beach

• Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon

This is a small monastery that you’ll pass on the way to the Navagio viewpoint. In fact, it’s just a 5 minute drive from the viewpoint!

The Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon was founded in the 16th century, and it’s still a functioning monastery, with monks living and working there. Remember to dress appropriately if you want to go inside, although plenty of nice pictures can be taken from outside.

It’s free to visit the monastery, and they have a little workshop where they make mosaics and other art. You can buy their wares if you want, but they aren’t pushy about it. The mosaics are very nice.

Behind the monastery, there’s a walking path that takes you to a cross with wonderful views of the Ionian Sea, and it’s also a great sunset spot.

• Navagio Beach

Even though the best pictures of Navagio shipwreck are actually taken from the steep cliffs above, it’s also fun to get in a boat and go see the beach at eye level, if you’re willing to brave the crowds.

Boat tours to Navagio Beach generally depart from the nearby harbor at Porto Vromi. You can show up there and try to arrange a boat rental on the spot, but it’s generally better to book a tour package online .

This beach gets very crowded and chaotic during the daytime, when it’s bombarded with tourists and boats. During the summer, the only time you can avoid the crowds at Navagio Beach is by arriving before 8 AM or after 6 PM.

Nevertheless, it’s still a very nice beach and the rusty shipwreck is fun to see up close!

Read More: Navagio Beach

Book Now: Navagio Beach & Blue Caves / Private Tour

Up close view of the Navagio shipwreck

The back side of MV Panagiotis

Top down view of the shipwreck bay

• Hidden Treasure Cave (Maravelia)

Out of all the many wonderful caves in Zakynthos island, this was one of our favorites.

The Maravelia Cave, also known as Hidden Treasure Cave, is located on the coast near the shipwreck beach, and you can only get there by boat.

In fact, the cave is only big enough for one small boat to fit inside it at a time, and only private boat tours go to this spot. Shared tours skip it.

To go inside the cave, you’ll have to step directly off of your boat and climb up the smooth rocks that meet the water’s edge near the cave entrance.

The rocks can be slippery from sea water, so watch your step! Hidden Treasure Cave has a high ceiling with an opening at the top that pours in sunlight and makes the whole cave amazingly beautiful and photogenic.

It may not be famous just yet, but this was one of our favorite hidden spots in Zakinthos!

Book Now: Zakynthos Private Boat Tour

Hidden Treasure Cave (Maravelia)

• Myzithres Rocks

This is one of the most spectacular and underrated places in Zakynthos Greece, with dramatic white rocks and private beaches on both sides of the rock.

The Myzithres Rocks are located on the southwest corner of Zakynthos island, and you can view them from the cliffs above, or take a boat directly to them from Keri Harbor and land on the beach!

There’s a viewpoint and a restaurant on the cliffs above, called Keri Lighthouse Restaurant. It’s a little overpriced, although the views are unbeatable. Afternoon until sunset is the best time to dine there and take pictures.

You can also walk further up the road and enjoy the view of Myzithres Rocks without any people, but be careful not to get too close to the edge, because the cliff may be unstable.

Book Now: Myzithres Viewpoint Tour

Myzithres Rocks

Restaurant views from above the Myzithres Rocks

• Marathonisi Island

Also known as ‘turtle island,’ Marathonisi is a small island near the south coast of Zakynthos. Part of the island is a protected breeding ground for loggerhead sea turtles.

The front side of this island has a nice beach with clear water, and the south side has a couple of caves you can enter with a small boat. It’s a fantastic island, but it’s becoming pretty crowded.

You can visit Marathonisi Island on a half day tour from Keri Harbor along with other sights such as the Keri Caves (below), or it’s also possible to take a boat taxi there from nearby places like Laganas Beach.

Book Now: Marathonisi Island & Keri Caves Tour

Aerial view of Marathonisi (also known as Turtle Island)

Drone pic of the beach at Marathonisi

• Keri Caves

The Keri Caves are usually visited on a half day boat tour that includes Marathonisi Island (above) and sometimes the Myzithres Rocks.

Inside these caves, the water seems to glow blue, giving it a gatorade-like color that almost doesn’t look real. It’s hard to capture with a camera. Small boats can float into the caves see them up close.

There are also several pebble beaches and two rock arches on this coastline that your boat captain can drive through if he’s feeling adventurous!

Overall, the Keri Caves were one of our favorite places in southern Zakynthos.

Book Now: Keri Caves & Marathonisi Tour

Inside one of the Keri Caves

Drone pic at the Keri Caves

• Blue Caves

This is a group of small caves on the northern tip of Zakynthos island, reachable by boat from Agios Nikolaos harbor.

As you might guess from the name, these are some of the most colorful caves in Zakynthos, and little boats can pass through the caves and come out the other side. Usually you can do some swimming here too, if there’s enough time.

The Blue Caves tour is generally shorter than any of the other boat tours in Zakynthos, but it’s also cheaper, so it’s well worth it!

Book Now: Blue Caves & Navagio Tour

Small boats can pass through the Blue Caves

Incredible water color

The Blue Caves from above

• Plakaki Beach

This viewpoint is still kind of a hidden gem in Zakynthos, with amazing views of the coastline and that dark blue water the Mediterranean Sea is famous for.

Calling it a beach is kind of a stretch, but at the bottom of the cliff there’s a nice swimming spot that can be reached with a bit of short, intense hiking. The path is still unfinished rock, and there are some steep sections, so it’s not good for kids or older folks.

When the access improves, I’m sure this place will be one of the highlights of Zakynthos island. It definitely has some of our favorite views.

Plakaki Beach — rocky access, but stunning views!

• Potamitis Viewpoint

Potamitis is another viewpoint with a nice restaurant, a windmill, and easy access by road. It’s located on the north end of Zakynthos island.

There’s a photogenic winding staircase that takes you down to the seaside, where you can watch the tour boats coming and going from the nearby Blue Caves. It’s a really nice view, and there are also sunbeds if you want to stay and relax.

We had heard that the restaurant asks you to buy something before taking pictures at the viewpoint, but in our case they didn’t ask for anything. The restaurant has good ratings too, so I’m sure it’s worth a visit!

Potamitis views

• Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa

This is a medieval church that sits at the top of Skopos mountain in southeast Zante, at an elevation of 543 meters (1,782 ft). Surrounding the church are the ruins of a monastery that is even older. It’s like a trip back in time.

To reach the church you can drive or hike, but the road is rough gravel all the way to the top of the mountain. We made it there in a rental car, but it wasn’t a very comfortable drive. If you hike, bring a hat and lots of water.

If you drive, it’s best to come from the northeast side, because apparently the road from Kalamaki is worse and requires a 4×4 vehicle.

Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa

Above the church

The atmosphere at the monastery is quiet and special. If you come in the daytime, they open the doors to the main building for visitors, and the inside has nice frescoes and a guestbook.

There’s a good breeze and you have panoramic views of much of Zakynthos island, with Kefalonia visible in the distance. I’m sure it’s a great spot for sunset too, although we didn’t stay that late.

Behind the monastery, there’s a rocky summit you can climb for even better views of the whole area! The path for this climb starts on the southeast side of the rocks, and there’s a rope to help you go up.

All in all, this place is a true hidden gem in Zakinthos, and most people still don’t know about it!

A peaceful walking path at the monastery

• Pelagaki Beach

There are lots of beaches in Zakynthos, but this one stands out because of its snow white pebbles and nice clear water. It’s similar to some of the scenic beaches in Kefalonia Greece .

This is one of the quieter and less touristy beaches in Zakynthos, with no music or sunbeds, although it’s occasionally disrupted by noisy boats dropping off tourists, so that’s the only downside. At the top of the hill, there’s a small canteen selling food and drinks.

The beach itself is fantastic from above or below, and you can reach it in about 5 minutes by hiking down a steep dirt path. Even though it doesn’t have the easiest access, the beach is beautiful and well worth a visit!

Calm waters at Pelagaki Beach

• Korakonissi

This beach might be one of the most unusual locations in Zakynthos Greece.

Actually, it’s not really a beach, but more like a little rocky peninsula with a natural arch and some tide pools for swimming.

The path down to the water is rocky and a bit steep in places, so it’s not the greatest. You can go down in about 5 minutes. I wouldn’t recommend it for kids or older folks, but you can enjoy great views of Korakonissi without going all the way to the bottom.

Korakonissi

There are three places to swim: in the tide pool to the right, in the open sea to the left, or inside the cave below the arch.

It’s a spectacular location, and climbing on the rocks gives you some different views of everything. The water inside the cave is incredibly blue.

Parking is limited here, so you’ll want to arrive early if possible. The road is a bit steep and turns into gravel near the end, so depending on your vehicle, you may need to park before you reach the bottom of the road.

There is a cafe in the parking lot with nice views and reasonable prices for Greek food. Enjoy!

Inside the natural rock arch at Korakonissi

Best Zakynthos Photo Spot

There are many beautiful photo spots in Zakynthos Greece, but I think the winner would have to be the Navagio Viewpoint , followed by the Myzithres Rocks in second place. Third place for me might be Plakaki Beach.

If you only have time for two boat tours in Zakynthos, do Navagio and the Keri Caves. These are on opposite sides of the island, so you may need two separate days to do them, but we thought the tour at Keri Caves was even better than the Blue Caves! It’s also a longer tour, so you get more time to enjoy the scenery.

For drone pilots, it’s possible to take amazing photos on the west coast of Zakynthos island, which is all lined with steep limestone cliffs.

The locals in Greece aren’t strict about drones. EU regulations on drones aren’t really enforced here, and there are lots of quiet places to fly without disturbing anyone. If in doubt, just ask before you fly.

There are limitless photo ops along the coast of Zakynthos Greece

Best Zakynthos Beaches

To be honest, Zakynthos beaches generally aren’t as nice as the ones on say, Kefalonia island , and they’re very overrun with tourists during the summer months. For the best experience, you’ll want to arrive early and find a good parking spot before the crowds get there.

If you want sandy beaches in Zakynthos, check out Banana Beach, Porto Zorro, or Alykanas Beach. If you’re mainly wanting spectacular views, go to Porto Limnionas or Plakaki Beach. These aren’t sandy beaches, but the views are wonderful and they can still be great spots for swimming and sunbathing.

The famous Navagio Beach also has amazing views with nice sand and water, although it’s usually crowded with boats and people.

Above Pelagaki Beach

Zakynthos Island Map

Here’s a Zakynthos island map you can use to plan your trip in Greece.

You can click the icons on this map to get more info and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations may be approximate.

Attractions to visit by land are marked in blue, while harbors (and nearby attractions to reach by sea) are marked in orange.

Best Sunset Spot In Zakynthos

Zakynthos island has a long west-facing coastline, so naturally there are lots of good sunset spots to enjoy.

One of the most popular places to watch the sunset is at the Navagio Viewpoint (above the beach), where you can use a wide panoramic photo to capture the beach together with the sunset.

For a more quiet sunset, our favorite spot was the cross at the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, which is also located near the shipwreck viewpoint.

To find the cross for sunset, walk along the short path behind the monastery until you’ve gone about 150 meters down the hill. It’s a really nice spot, and you’ll most likely have it all to yourself!

Sunset at the cross behind Agios Georgios Krimnon

Sunset at Navagio viewpoint

If you want dinner in Zakinthos with an epic sunset view to end the day, check out Aeras Taverna , Porto Schiza Restaurant , Cross Taverna , or the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant .

All of these restaurants and sunset spots are located on the west side of the island, so a bit of driving is required if you’re coming from town.

There are also some tours available that will take you to one of the good sunset spots in Zakynthos and handle all of the transportation for you.

Book Now: Romantic Agalas Sunset Tour

What To Bring

Here are some packing suggestions for your trip to Zakynthos Greece.

Most of the items below can probably be found on the island in a pinch, but the quality of stuff you buy on the street won’t be guaranteed (personally, I’m not about to use a junky knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera gear).

It’s best to buy vetted products online!

• Waterproof Bag: Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boats. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times!
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
• Snorkeling Gear: Good for exploring the clear waters around Zakynthos, and sometimes you can even see turtles. Snorkels and masks can be borrowed or rented from the boat companies too, but if you plan to do multiple tours it’s better to bring your own gear.
• Water Shoes: Save your feet some grief and wear water shoes! Many of the beaches in Zakynthos have rocky shorelines, so water shoes are very helpful for getting in and out of the water.

Plakaki coastline blues

Other Zakynthos Tips

• Credit Cards: You can pay by credit card for most hotels, restaurants, and other things in Zakynthos, but it’s still a good idea to carry cash (in Euros). Some smaller restaurants only take cash, or the card machines may go down. If you show up at the harbor and want to book a boat tour on the spot, then they’ll ask you to pay in cash. This is part of the advantage of booking tours online, that way you can pay by credit card and save your cash for those little family owned tavernas with top notch food and low prices.
• ATM: There are ATMs within reach of every corner of the island. We usually pulled 200 Euros at a time, and never had any issues. One thing to note is that the ATMs will offer you their own conversion rate (which is a really bad rate), or you can continue in Euros. Make sure you choose Euros without their silly conversion rate. This is a well known scam at ATMs in Greece, but it’s easily avoided if you know what you’re doing.
• Cell Service: Phone reception is strong across most of Zakinthos island, although you may lose service in some places while driving around because of the hilly terrain of the island.

The perfect place to go for a swim

• WiFi: Internet quality in Zakynthos is not the greatest, but it’s improving, especially in the main town areas. Don’t expect WiFi speeds on par with Athens (or other European countries), but it’s generally good enough for emails, browsing, and maybe a little bit of streaming.
• Language: The local language in Zakynthos is Greek, of course, but almost everyone speaks and understands enough English for conversation. Lots of UK tourists visit the Ionian islands, so the locals are accustomed to speaking English with travelers.
• Mosquitoes: We had very few encounters with mosquitoes in Zakynthos, and the island isn’t known to be home to the West Nile Virus, so it’s not really a significant concern here.
• Water: The tap water in Zakynthos is supposed to be safe to drink, but it doesn’t taste good. It’s better to drink bottled water, which is cheap and can be found at any mini market. You can use the tap water for cooking or brushing your teeth.

Is Zakynthos Safe?

Yes, Zakynthos is a very safe place to visit!

Greece has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn’t have any issues with crime.

The locals in Zakynthos are very friendly, especially if you get out of the busy town and go to some of the quiet villages in the countryside.  

Is Zakynthos Worth It?

If you still can’t make up your mind, then yes, Zakynthos is definitely worth it!

This is a beautiful Greek island with great food, people, and scenery. You can enjoy a sunset dinner by the cliffs, or explore a sea cave by boat. Famous bucket list views like Navagio Beach are also icing on the cake.

In spite of the summer tourist crowds, Zakynthos is undoubtedly one of the quintessential Greek islands in my opinion. It’s also fairly easy to reach from Athens, and the infrastructure is improving every day.

Myzithres Beach

Navagio is one of my favorite travel pictures anywhere in the world!

How Long To Stay

There are loads of good things to do in Zakynthos Greece. The best highlights will take at least 3 days to see, but one week is more ideal.

We spent two weeks in Zakynthos, and easily could have found more activities to do if we had stayed longer.  

Zakynthos Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 4-day itinerary for Zakinthos island could look like, assuming you’ve rented a car :

• Day 1: Northwest Zakynthos . Visit the Navagio Beach viewpoint and see the famous shipwreck from above. Make a quick stop at the nearby monastery, and then drive to Porto Vromi, where you can take a boat to the shipwreck beach and also tour some of the nearby caves. Relax at Porto Limnionas Beach or Korakonissi, and then have dinner at San Leon Tavern or one of the other great restaurants in the area.
• Day 2: North Zakynthos . Drive to Agios Nikolaos Harbor and rent a boat to go to the Blue Caves for scenery and swimming. Next, drive to the Potamitis Viewpoint and walk down the stairs by the ocean. Lastly, relax at Pelagaki Beach or Xigia Sulfur Beach.
• Day 3: Southwest Zakynthos . Drive to Keri Lake Harbor, and then rent a boat to go to Marathonisi Island, Keri Caves, and Myzithres Beach. Next, drive to Plakaki Viewpoint and hike down to the beach (if you’re fit and able). Lastly, go see the Myzithres Rocks from above and enjoy the sunset at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant.
• Day 4: East Zakynthos . If you’re feeling adventurous, hike or drive up the steep gravel road to Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa, and enjoy the historic buildings and panoramic views of Zakynthos island. Bring plenty of water. Afterwards, relax at Banana Beach, Porto Zorro, or one of the many other beaches in the area. If you have extra time, check out the Cameo Island Beach Bar.

I hope this sample itinerary gives you some ideas for your own trip to Zakynthos! As always, feel free to ask any questions if you have them.  

Zakynthos Hotels

Best time to visit zakynthos greece.

The best time to visit Zakinthos island depends on what you’re looking for, but generally the nicest weather is from early May to late October. All of these months are mostly warm and sunny. The shoulder months in spring and autumn can be nice if you’re wanting good weather without the crowds.

The hottest months in Greece are July and August, and Zakynthos during this time has temperatures of up to 32 °C (91 °F) during the day time, and lows of 21 °C (70 °F). This can be great for swimming in a pool or lounging at the beach, although these two months can also be a a lot more busy with tourists.

Winter in Zakynthos is fairly mild, but it’s wetter, cooler, and more overcast. High temperatures are around 14 °C (57 °F), and lows are around 8 °C (46 °F). Not as many boats and tours are running at this time, but you may get a good deal on hotels and things.

Regardless of when you decide to visit Zante, you’re sure to have a memorable trip!

Colorful souvenir plates at a roadside market in Anafonitria village

More Greece Travel Guides

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Zakynthos island in Greece.

We have more travel guides for the Greek islands coming soon, so don’t forget to check back later!

Happy travels!

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Do you need to rent a car to get around on this island?

Hi. A car isn’t required if you stay near town, but it can still be nice for exploring other parts of the island. We used DiscoverCars in Greece and would recommend them. The other option for getting around is to book day tours that include transport. There are shared and private tours that go to many of the best places on the island.

What are the other ways to get around the island if you don’t have a car? Does the island have buses?

Hi. There’s also an affordable bus service offered by KTEL Zakynthos , although keep in mind some of the bus routes are seasonal (summer only). Their website has a full list of prices and routes on the island. For short distance trips near town, you can walk to beaches, shops, and such places. There’s no Uber, but you can hire a taxi or book an airport transfer .

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Zakynthos, also known by its Italian name Zante, is an island of two stories. The southern and southeastern shorelines are dominated by heavy – and often low-quality – package tourism, although even here there are some attractive lower-key bases hiding just out of sight of the larger, run-of-the-mill resorts; examples include Keri and Limni Keriou in the remoter southwest. Once you leave the south behind, however, and set off to explore the rest of the island, you'll discover a different place altogether. It's one where plenty of forested wilderness and traditional rural villages remain, but it’s the spectacular scenery of the rugged west coast, where mighty limestone cliffs plummet down to unreal turquoise waters, that’s the true highlight.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Zakynthos. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Byzantine Museum

This magnificent museum of ecclesiastical art is housed in a beautifully restored building on the central waterfront plaza. Almost everything here was…

Shipwreck Beach Viewpoint

The most dramatic sight along the west coast is magnificent Shipwreck Beach. A favourite of Instagrammers travelling through the Greek islands, the beach…

Church of St Dionysios

Devoted to Zakynthos' patron saint, the Church of St Dionysios (1948; rebuilt following the 1953 earthquake) stands at the southern end of the waterfront,…

Logothetis Organic Farm

The 80-hectare Logothetis farm produces purely organic olive oils (some flavoured with orange, lemon and other fruits) as well as olive-oil products. You…

Monastery of St George

In an evocative clifftop site, the Monastery of St George has an interior covered in faded frescoes. The strange tower at the centre of the complex was…

A ruined Venetian fortress sits atop the wooded slope that looms over the town centre. Reached by a steep but enjoyable 15-minute hike or a circuitous 2…

Gerakas Beach

The best beach in the south, Gerakas is a strand of fine sand that faces the Bay of Laganas. It's also a crucial turtle-nesting site, so visitor numbers…

National Marine Park of Zakynthos

Covering an area of 135 sq km, this marine park in Zakynthos' Bay of Laganas was created in 1999 to protect the endangered loggerhead turtle.

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17 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos, Greece In 2024

Written By: Dejan

Updated On: March 14, 2024

When planning a trip to the Greek islands, put the island of Zakynthos, Greece on your list. This gem in the Ionian Sea is a must-visit destination; from the iconic Shipwreck Beach, accessible only by boat, to the mesmerizing Blue Caves, ideal for snorkeling and exploring marine life, Zakynthos offers a lot of unforgettable experiences. There are so many things to do on Zakynthos that you’ll want to spend at least three days enjoying the island’s attractions. If you have more time, even better!

Zakynthos Island, also widely known as Zante is located in the Ionian Islands in northwest of Greece. This name duality stems from the island’s Venetian past, where it was referred to as ‘Zante,’ a name that has persisted, especially in English-speaking countries.

Table of Contents

Best to do in Zakynthos, Greece

We will show you the best way to explore Zakynthos Island, from visiting its traditional villages, savoring authentic Greek cuisine, and even witnessing the endangered Caretta-caretta turtles in their natural habitat. Whether you’re an adventure seeker like us, a history buff, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, Zakynthos will serve up a holiday filled with diverse and enriching experiences. The best way to get around Zakynthos is by renting a car. You can compare prices here at RentalCars.om

The beaches and natural beauty of this Ionian Island capture the imagination of travelers seeking a vacation to the Greek Islands. Zakynthos is known for its nightlife in towns like Laganas but is also known for its traditional villages such as Alykes and Vasilikos. Let’s not forget its crucial role in wildlife conservation, being a sanctuary for the endangered Loggerhead turtles.

1. Blue Caves – Amazing scenery

One of the best things to do in Zakynthos is to visit the Blue Caves. These natural arches have been carved out by erosion and are famous for the vivid color of blue water in its deepest hollows. We recommend getting out early in the morning for the best light and to avoid the crowds. Going snorkeling at the Blue Caves is one thing you do not want to miss. You will see what we mean once you dip your face in the deep blue azure water and see what is below.

You can hire a small private boat or take a tour of the many famous sites along the coast where you can go swimming and snorkeling. The fact that the Blue Caves are only accessible by boat should be reason enough to add it to your itinerary.

*Note : – cruises around the island last around 9-10 hours, so you be prepared for a long and beautiful day* Book your tour here. Most boat tours leave from Agios Nikolaos Harbor.

2. Navagio Beach – Shipwreck Beach

Located on the west coast of Zakynthos, Navagio Beach is a cove surrounded by white sea cliffs that are 900 feet tall. The famous Navagio Beach (Which means shipwreck in Greek) has become the symbol of the island and is one of the top things to do in Zakynthos. The amazing view gives me the chills.

This secluded beach is famous for its shipwreck, the Panagiotis, which adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the picturesque setting. It is one of the most beautiful scenes in the Greek Islands, surrounded by towering high cliffs and turquoise waters. Accessible only by boat, Navagio Beach feels like it is a little undiscovered gem – when you look at it from the sea. In truth, it is anything but undiscovered. You may also want to read: Is Greece Expensive, a complete guide to costs for travel in Greece.

Unfortunately, as of the time of this writing, Navagio Beach is closed, and you cannot go on the sandy beach itself. You can still enter the bay by boat, check out the shipwreck, and take photos, which I would prefer to do anyway. Who wants to stand on a small beach with a bunch of people getting in your way? You can book a boat tour to see Navagio Shipwreck Beach here.

The closure was due to rockfall from several small earthquakes and was put in as a safety measure. However, I also think it is an environmental issue as well, as in the past, there was overcrowding on the beach.

Shipwreck Beach is still a stop on almost all boat tours and is often combined with the Blue Cave. We recommend booking a boat tour that visits in the early morning or later in the afternoon so you are not crammed in there with a bunch of other boats. Most tour boats leave from Agios Nikolaos harbor.

3. View of Navagio Beach – Shipwreck Beach

The best photo opportunity of Navagio Beach is from the lookout from the top of the cliffs. This is the classic view that has been used to market Zakynthos Island and one you have probably seen on Instagram. Because of this, you can imagine the number of people who want to see it from this angle, and you would be right. If you visit Zante Island in high season, you will be standing in line with a bunch of other people just to get to the platform for the view.

You should also be aware of a couple of things. There is only a small stand selling coffee and drinks by the platform and no bathrooms. When you get to the platform, you will have to fight for a view of the Navagio shipwreck with all the selfie-taking tourists and then crane your neck to get the postcard view above. Be careful not to drop your phone or camera as well. This view can be accessed by car or a van from Zante Town or Alyke. It’s crowded in the high season, but in the off-season, this place is a wonder of nature that gives chills to the bone.

4. Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on the island of Zakynthos (football is also popular with a professional football club), and it is one of the most exciting and adventurous things a visitor can do in Zante.

From absolute beginner to experienced divers, you can set out on an adventure to explore the depths of the Ionian Sea in the Zakynthos Marine Park. The crystal clear waters of the gulf that surrounds the main island of Zakynthos are pristine. There are many sea caves that lure you inside for some of the most unique snorkeling experiences you’ll ever have.

If you aren’t up for snorkeling, you can also book a glass-bottom boat tour that will allow you to take in the beauty of the turquoise waters and what lies below.

5. Loggerhead Sea Turtles of Laganas Bay

The island of Zante is one of the best places in the world to find the famous Loggerhead sea turtle. (Caretta-Carreta Turtle) The loggerhead sea turtle is endangered, but Zakynthos is a nesting area for them, and they lay their eggs on many of its beaches.

Note: Tourists are prohibited from visiting places where turtles lay eggs as Zante authorities protect them. (Kalamaki Beach is one of the beaches where the turtles lay their eggs, and when they are there, Kalamaki Beach is off-limits. The region between Laganas and Kalamaki Beach also has some restrictions.

You don’t need to see them laying eggs through; this giant gentle turtle can be seen swimming at Laganas Bay. If you book a snorkeling or diving trip on Zakynthos, you can see the Caretta-Caretta turtle. Trust me, the enjoyment when you see one of those will give you goosebumps. Book this boat trip to Laganus on a glass bottom boat to spot turtles.

As we suggest, with all water activities and wildlife, do your research and ensure you go with a company that practices safe snorkeling with wildlife. If you see a ton of boats pulling up alongside a turtle and everyone jumping in at once, just tell your boat captain that you don’t agree with this and to move on. The last thing we should do is cause unnecessary stress to any animal.

6. Marathonisi – Turtle Island

Marathonisi is an islet just off the southern coast of Zakynthos and has one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the region. It is also known as Turtle Island as it looks like the shape of a turtle when you approach from Keri or Marathia. The island is also home to the Loggerhead Turtle, and the beach itself is only accessible for the first 3 meters from the shore. You will see it roped off beyond that, as it is their nesting ground. This private boat tour takes you on a luxury cruise to Turtle Island, Keri Caves, and Mizithres.

The islet is located in the Marine Park, and the blocked-off sections are monitored. The best way to get to the island is to take the Taxi Boat that shuttles from the beach to Marathonisi Island, which is about 15 minutes. The other options are renting your own boat or jumping on an organized tour. Whichever way you choose, you will be glad you added this island to your trip.

7. Keri Caves

Just outside of Zakynthos Town are the Keri Caves. The Keri Caves are a series of sea caves located along the island’s southwestern coast. Their extraordinary beauty and crystal-clear waters make them a popular spot for tourists. These caves are accessible only by sea, and many visitors explore them via tour boat that include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Combine the beauty of the underwater world with white sea cliffs reaching up from the clear azure waters, makes for a spectacular day trip.

Like most popular snorkeling spots in Zakynthos, you can also go via a glass-bottom boat . The waters are so clear; these are very popular on the island. A Keri Caves tour stops at Turtle Island to spot sea turtles as well.

You can even rent a boat if you feel comfortable to explore around the island at your own pace.

9. Keri Beach

Keri Beach is another popular beach that is located in the village of Keri, in the southwestern part of the island, this picturesque beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and pebble-lined shores, making it a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers.

The charm of Keri Beach lies in its peaceful setting, away from the bustling crowds, where visitors can unwind and soak in the Mediterranean sun. The beachfront is dotted with traditional tavernas where you can savor authentic Greek dishes while enjoying views of the Ionian Sea.

This is the jumping off point to the nearby Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island which are accessible by boat tours. For those interested in a more leisurely experience, renting a sunbed and simply relaxing by the azure waters is a delightful option.

10. Keri Lighthouse

Keri Lighthouse is a remarkable landmark located in the picturesque village of Keri, on the southwestern tip of Zakynthos. This historic lighthouse stands as a beacon, offering some of the best views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding limestone cliffs.

While there, you can enjoy some delicious Greek cuisine at the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant. This popular eatery is renowned for its strategic location at one of the island’s most scenic vantage points, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding landscapes The Keri Lighthouse Restaurant terrace is a perfect spot for a meal or a drink, especially during sunset when the sky and sea are painted in vibrant hues.

11. Gerakas Beach

Gerakas Beach is located on the southern tip of the Vasilikos peninsula in the National Marine Park. This sandy beach has plenty of amenities, such as sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.

The beach’s proximity to Vasilikos makes it one of the most popular beaches to visit and it has easy access to a variety of tavernas and cafes, where one can enjoy local Greek cuisine.

12. Scuba Diving

Zakynthos Island is an exceptional destination for scuba divers, boasting a variety of dive sites that cater to all levels of experience. The island’s underwater world is rich in marine life and geological features, including reefs and caves.

Avid scuba divers will love diving through one of the 400 caves around Zakynthos island. Among the top dive sites is the enchanting Keri Caves. The caves are popular for their excellent visibility to explore its underwater formations and nooks and crannies of the caves. When the sun shines down, the light dances over the rocks, creating an interesting display of light. Divers can also encounter a variety of marine life, from octopuses to sea turtles. Plus, the calm waters and range of depths make the Keri Caves suitable for both beginner and experienced divers.

For the more adventurous, the wreck of the MV Terekhol Shipwreck, a Russian cargo ship that sank off the coast of Zakynthos in 2008, provides an intriguing exploration opportunity to see its haul.

Dive tours in Zakynthos are plentiful, with approximate costs ranging from €60 to €100 for a single dive, including equipment rental, depending on the dive center and the complexity of the dive.

Many operators offer PADI certification courses and guided dives, ensuring safety and an enriching underwater experience. Divers in Zakynthos can expect to encounter vibrant coral formations, a variety of fish species, and with luck, the fascinating Loggerhead turtles. The combination of diverse dive sites, reasonable costs, and the allure of the Mediterranean marine life makes Zakynthos a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts looking to explore the depths of the Ionian Sea.

13. Banana Beach

The golden sandy beach of Banana Beach is the longest beach in Zakynthos. Located in the Vasilikos region, Banana Beach is easily accessible to make a day out at the beach, which is full of sun, sea, and sand. Its sheer size ensures there’s always a spot on the soft, golden sands, making it perfect for families and groups.

There are activities and water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, as well as more relaxed options such as sunbed rentals and paddleboarding. The beach area is dotted with a variety of restaurants and beach bars, making it the perfect place to spend the day. Plus, the clear, inviting waters of the Ionian Sea make it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

14. Porto Limnionas Beach

There’s no shortage of scenes of white limestone cliffs plunging into crystal clear waters along the coast of Zakynthos. And Porto Limnionas is one of its stars. Porto Limniona is considered the best swimming spot in Zakynthos, which was once undiscovered.

This secluded cove on the west coast is yet another place with calm azure waters. Impressive rock formations and steep cliffs surround this popular snorkeling and swimming area. And there are chairs with beach umbrellas to rent.

With the Limnionas Tavern nearby, visitors can enjoy local Greek cuisine while soaking in the tranquil views over Porto Limnonas. More people are starting to learn about Porto Limnionas beach, but that doesn’t detract from its beauty. However, Porto Limnionas Beach is not large with only a small beach area, so it does get crowded.

15. Horseback Riding

There are plenty of outdoor activities on Zante, including horse riding on the beach (highly recommended!) The Laganas horseriding center offers rides through sand dunes, forests, and the beach, with an unforgettable experience swimming with horses in the Ionian Sea.

The Laganas Horseriding Center is family-run by the Tsourakis family, who have been leading tours since 1994. They are ranked as one of the top 10 best riding centers in Greece. You can choose rides to the Sand Dunes, Pine Forest, Laganas Valley, and Beach.

16. Laganas Beach Party

We mentioned that Zakynthos is known for its nightlife. The island of Zante is not called “The Party Island” for a  reason. The central part that gets this attribute is a resort area called Laganas. A vast number of clubs, bars, and restaurants are placed here for a reason. The area attracts a hip and youthful crowd with its mix of international DJs, lively bars, and nightclubs right on the sand.

This is the epicenter of all the parties, with tasty cocktails flowing. The crowds rush to hit the strip every night from 10 p.m. and party in packed clubs until morning. The vibe and energy pulse in every direction, and it is easy to go barhopping all night long. The beachfront is lined with venues offering a variety of music and themes, ensuring there’s something for every taste where guests can enjoy cocktails and snacks under the stars.

The themed parties can get pretty wild where they pour neon colors on people, bathe in vast amounts of white foam, and the clubs put on special fireworks displays almost three times a week. So you get the idea of the atmosphere and vibe you can experience on Zante here.

17. Agios Nikolaos Beach, aka St Nicolas Beach

Located about 30km west of Zakynthos Town in the scenic village of Volimes, on the northeast coast of the island, this beach offers a tranquil escape during the day with its clear, blue waters and pebbly shores. Ideal for families and couples alike, Agios Nikolaos provides excellent facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of beachfront tavernas serving delicious Greek cuisine.

The beach is also a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as snorkeling and diving, with dive centers available for equipment rental and lessons. The nearby port offers boat trips to the famous Shipwreck Cove and Blue Caves, making Agios Nikolaos a convenient starting point for exploring Zakynthos’ natural wonders.

It is not a surprise that Zakynthos is one of the best islands in Greece for a party, and at night St Nicolas Beach is another party beach on Zakynthos.

18. Korakonisi Ridge

Korakonisi Ridge is an off-the-beaten-path marvel in Zakynthos. Located near the village of Agios Leon, this striking rock formation is a unique geological landscape. Photographers and hikers are drawn to its rugged beauty, which provides a panoramic view of the Ionian Sea.

The area around Korakonisi is ideal for those who enjoy exploring natural landmarks and engaging in outdoor activities like rock climbing and trekking. The clear waters surrounding the ridge are also perfect for snorkeling, allowing visitors to discover the vibrant marine life. While the ridge is relatively remote, its untouched and serene environment makes it a worthwhile destination for those looking to experience Zakynthos beyond the typical tourist spots.

19. Museums & History

The island of Zakynthos also has many historical attractions. The rich history of Zakynthos dates from 1600. B.C. One of the most famous people who lived in Zakynthos was Dionysios Solomos. He was a native of Zakynthos and Greece’s national poet, who wrote the Greek national anthem.

The Town of Zante (Zakynthos Town) contains two of them. One of them is the remains of the Venetian Castle, and if you take a hike up from town, you’ll discover the Venetian Fort that dates back to the 15th century.

Other Museums and historical places on Zante are:

• Roma Mansion – This 17th-century mansion survived the earthquake of 1953. It hit Cephalonia and Zante, practically destroying both islands, with only a few buildings surviving the impact. 
• Monastery of St. Denis – In the mountain village of Volimes, you’ll find the Monastery of St Denis. St. Denis was the patron saint of Zakynthos who was born on the island in 1546.

20. Zakynthos Town (Zante Town)

As mentioned above, much of Zakynthos Town was destroyed in the 1953 earthquake, but it is a nice place to wander, do some shopping, and eat some traditional Greek food.

Things to see in Zante Town are Agios Dionysios, The Venetian Castle above the city that offers beautiful views from the village of Bohali, and the Byzantine Museum, which houses a replica of the town before the earthquake.

21. Shopping on Zante

Olive oil, wines, handmade carpets, ceramic statues of Greek historian symbols, the small turtles, and many more.

The best thing about the holidays in Zante is that chances are you will meet somebody new and interesting and experience some great things.

The Greek Cuisine of Zakynthos

Greeks are great gourmands, and Greek food is one of the most delicious foods you will ever taste in your life, especially on Zante. No matter what your preference is. As a part of their hospitality, Greeks load so much food on the plates. It’s literally unbelievable. So, food lovers, this island will be like heaven to you.

Anywhere you go, there is a beautiful smell of delicious food and olive oil (one of the most produced products in Zante), as well as a great atmosphere in restaurants, where you can experience fire dancing and plate smashing. With the recent expansion of tourism on the island, the gourmet side of it is blooming almost everywhere.

The best part of this is that the food is affordable in Zakynthos, and Greeks take their hospitality and level of service to another level, so they will get you the best of the best, just to show how they value your visit and choice to eat at their tavernas & restaurants.

Some of the best places to eat on Zakynthos are:

• Nobelos Bio Restaurant – Located near Agios Nikolaos port,
• The Halfway House – Situated in Tsilivi,
• Votsalo Taverna – Located in the village of Marathias,
• Essence Restaurant – This fine dining establishment in Kalamaki,
• Keri Lighthouse Restaurant – Near the Keri Lighthouse and Porto Limnionas Taverna

How to Get to Zakynthos, Greece

The best way to get to Zante Island is by flying into Zakynthos International Airport. The Zakynthos Airport welcomes flights from major European cities, especially during the tourist season.

For those traveling from within Greece or neighboring countries, taking a ferry is a popular option. Ferries to Zakynthos depart from mainland Greece port of Kyllini, offering a scenic voyage across the Ionian Sea, and are well-connected to the Greek road network, making them accessible for those on a road trip.

Another convenient approach, especially for European travelers, is to drive to a nearby port and take a car ferry, combining the flexibility of a road trip with the experience of sea travel. Whether you’re looking for speed and convenience via air travel, or the scenic route via ferry, reaching Zakynthos is an integral part of the adventure, setting the stage for an unforgettable Greek island experience.

Best Way to Get Around Zakynthos, Greece

There are many ways to explore the island. You can go hiking, ride a bike, or take a small train to explore the resorts on the island.

The most flexible and convenient way to explore the island is by rental car. You can compare prices here. This option allows visitors to travel at their own pace, access remote beaches and hidden gems, and enjoy the scenic drives Zakynthos is famous for.

If you feel comfortable, there are scooter rentals, motorcycles, or quad bikes available, especially near tourist areas and the airport. You can also rent a boat or book a boat trip to many of the nearby islands and tourist destinations.

For those who prefer not to drive, the local bus service offers an affordable and reliable alternative, connecting the main town to popular beaches and resorts.

Taxis are also widely available and can be a good choice for shorter trips or when traveling in a group.

Organized tours and boat trips are also a good option as they provide transportation and guided exploration of the island’s key attractions, such as Shipwreck Cove and the Blue Caves.

Where to Stay in Zakynthos, Greece

Many of the resorts are scattered on the quiet parts of the island, and with only 410 square kilometers, you can go from one end to the other in a few hours of driving. Many places offer a peaceful environment with olive trees, a sandy beach, and a private pool where you can chill out and shake your stress away just by listening to the sea.

Laganas : Ideal for those seeking lively nightlife, Laganas is renowned for its vibrant bars and clubs. Hotels like the Mediterranean Beach Resort offer luxury accommodations right on the beachfront, perfect for party-goers and beach lovers.

Tsilivi : A family-friendly option, Tsilivi boasts a beautiful beach and a range of activities. The Contessina Hotel is a popular choice here, offering a blend of comfort and convenience with easy access to local attractions.

Argassi : For travelers looking for a balance between tranquility and accessibility, Argassi is perfect. The Diana Palace Hotel provides a peaceful yet convenient base, with excellent facilities and proximity to Zakynthos Town.

Vasilikos : Nature lovers should head to Vasilikos, which is known for its natural beauty and serene beaches. The Vasilikos Beach Hotel is a great option, offering a quiet environment and stunning sea views.

Zakynthos Town : For a more cultural experience, staying in Zakynthos Town is ideal. Hotels like the Phoenix Hotel offer easy access to historical sites, restaurants, and shopping areas.

Alykes : For a quieter, more relaxed vibe, Alykes is a wonderful choice. The Potamitis Studios provide comfortable, family-run accommodation, ideal for those looking to unwind in a more laid-back setting.

When is the Best time to Visit Zakynthos?

The best times to visit Zakynthos depend largely on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Generally, the most ideal times are during the late spring, early summer, and early autumn months.

Late Spring (May to Early June) : This period offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The island is less crowded, making it perfect for exploring the natural beauty and attractions in relative tranquility. The sea temperatures are also warming up, which is suitable for swimming and water activities.

Early Summer (Late June to Early July) : Early summer is ideal for those wanting to enjoy the warm weather without the peak season crowds. The temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). This time is great for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the island’s outdoor attractions.

Early Autumn (September to October) : The weather remains warm (around 20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F) but with fewer tourists. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and the reduced crowds provide a more relaxed atmosphere. This period is also excellent for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.

It’s worth noting that the peak tourist season in Zakynthos is during July and August. While this time offers the hottest weather and a vibrant atmosphere, it also brings larger crowds and higher prices. For those interested in observing the Loggerhead sea turtles, late spring and early summer are the best times, as this coincides with the nesting season on the island’s beaches.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Zakynthos hinges on your personal preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the nature of your trip.

About the Ionian Islands

Zakynthos Island is a beautiful island that is part of the Ionian island chain which is fast becoming a great alternative to the Greek Islands of Santorini or Crete. So, you know what that means: Get there now!

This group of islands is located in the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of mainland Greece. The islands have a strong Venetian Influence but also influences from the British and French. They consist of Corfu (Kerkyra), Kefalonia, Lefkada, Ithaca (Ithaki), Paxos (Paxoi), and Kythira.

And these are the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece. When looking for the best things to do in Zakynthos, include at least some of the cultural and conservation activities, and go beyond checking out the famous Shipwreck Beach or spending time in the clubs. Digging deeper, you will fall in love with this Greek Island.

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Dejan

"Dejan travelers have the best holiday on the island. He writes a blog about the Greek island Zakynthos at Zakynthos Insider – Zante where you will find great inside info about Zante, deals, travel advice and knowledge, and great help exploring Zante. See more Zakynthos travel at ZanteHolidayInsider / Facebook / Twitter

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14 thoughts on “17 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos, Greece In 2024”

These places in Greece are truly incredible. The place has one more beautiful landscapes than the other. It is one of the places I dream of still traveling around the world.

I love doing horseback riding … this is one of my favorite hobbies to do in free time. And I loved these pictures in the beach and landscape article 🙂

I’ve been travelling a lot lately because I no longer worry about jet lag. Wow I love the beach. I’ll be here someday with my friends! the island is chreep and very beautiful.

Wonderful pictures you have inserted on this post I loved those pictures very much and the places also 🙂

All are Fabulous places…

Looks beautiful doesn’t it?

Wow, that looks like paradise, away from all the crowds.

There is so much to see and do!

Hope to visit when I make it to Hellas 🙂

Hi Deb & Mark . One of the important reasons of visiting the island is “Kareta Kareta” big turtles which you can see in their natural environment in Zakhintos , I saw them in Lagana ,it was really spectacular view.Other reasons is that the island is chreep and very beautiful.

Glad to bring Zante bit closer to you guys! Thanks Deb & Dave as well!

Wow I love the beach. I’ll be here someday with my friends!

Wow! Zante looks so amazing! I wish to visit this place in May this year. I’ve been travelling a lot lately because I no longer worry about jet lag. I found the solution in JetLagFX ( http://www.jetlagfx.com/ ) it reduces the mental and physical stress of long journeys.

Thanks Sally! Zante is truly a beautiful destination!

Great photos. I love Zante.The weather is perfect!

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Your Zakynthos Vacation

When a getaway to the city is calling, answer it with a vacation package to Zakynthos. With all your travel arrangements in place before you leave, all you need to do here is concentrate on making unforgettable memories. Any trip to Zakynthos needs a well-planned itinerary. Fill yours with leading attractions like Kalamaki Beach , Tsilivi Beach and Laganas Beach . That dream Zakynthos vacation is only clicks away. Browse flights, hotels and more on Expedia for a getaway that's tailored just for you.

The Latest Zakynthos Vacation Packages

Contessina Suites and Spa

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Hotel Contessina

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Zakynthos Beach Vacation

There's nothing like a Zakynthos vacation to give yourself a little boost. The soothing melody of rolling waves and the smell of salty air will help refresh your mind, body and soul. To be close to the town center on your trip to Zakynthos, find a hotel around Tsilivi Beach (just 3 miles (5 km) away). If you're intending to stay for a bit, take a peek at our Zakynthos vacation packages. Not only will you save cash, you'll also have other amazing beaches around you to explore, like Shipwreck Beach and Alykanas Beach. Now that's a win-win!

Things You Should Know About Zakynthos

• If you think a perfect vacation is fresh ocean breezes and water views, check out our Zakynthos beach hotels . You're sure to forget the stresses of daily life at these perfectly located retreats.
• Take a look at Sarakino The House of Literature and Aurora Villa Luxury Retreat . These popular villas could just be ideal for your vacation in Zakynthos.
• Our Zakynthos things to do page is a terrific place to check for activities around here. Of course, you can't beat a little local knowledge. With a population of 11,500 in Zakynthos, we're sure you'll meet a few friendly people who'll give you some tips.
• Zakynthos vacation deals are an excellent way to save on experiences. Some ideas, including Tsilivi Beach, Shipwreck Beach and Alykanas Beach, belong at the top of your sightseeing list.

Zakynthos Essential Information

Zakynthos hotel deals.

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in zakynthos, zakynthos ferry terminal.

Explore the waterfront in Zakynthos Town with a trip to Zakynthos Ferry Terminal. Wander the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Blue Caves during your travels in Elation. Wander the beautiful beaches in this quaint area.

Solomos Square

Find out about the history of Zakynthos Town when you spend time at Solomos Square. Wander the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

What to do in Zakynthos

Zakynthos island: navagio shipwreck beach & blue caves tour, turtle spotting, turtle island, keri caves. zakynthos island.., other vacations you might like.

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Destinations | EUROPE

12 things to do in zakynthos travel guide.

21 Jun 2021 | Destinations , Europe , Greece

Greece is a popular holiday destination for many reasons. A trip to Greece or one of the smaller islands can also be very affordable. In this post, I am sharing an epic Zakynthos travel guide to help you plan yours. Find all the amazing and beautiful things to do in Zakynthos and more. 

My trip to Zakynthos was special, as good friends of ours were getting married there. They wanted to celebrate both of their bachelor parties in Zakynthos Greece. So in no time, a date was arranged, and we boarded the plane to Greece with ten men and nine women.    

This was my first visit to Greece – is it just me, or are you also super excited when you’re about to discover a new country? The moment I get off the plane my eyes start to sparkle, I’m instantly happy and I’m ready to take on a new adventure. This time was no different.

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

Ultimate Zakynthos Travel Guide

Zakynthos is located on the western side of Greece . 

Zákynthos is also known as Zante. The town is home to a ruined castle of the Byzantines, the beautiful Cameo island , a belfry of the 16th-century Agios Markos Church, an epic Solomos Square, and art in the form of frescoes and icons. 

The weather in Zakynthos is super pleasant. Greek food, especially Greek Meat Pie , is delicious and you must give it a try.  Although the island itself is relatively small, there are countless fun activities to experience. 

Within the space of ​​approximately 410 km², you can find all the ingredients for a diverse holiday under the sun. Zakynthos is a super popular tourist destination for bachelor’s parties, friend’s trips, and family summer holidays. 

How to get to Zakynthos

Zakynthos is located in Greece. It is a European Union member and uses Euro as its currency. Passport holders from other EU countries, the US and Canada can enter Greece without a visa. For others, a Schengen Tourist Visa is required for entry. 

When arranging your trip to Zakynthos, keep in mind that it’s a tourist destination so it’s not easy to get there by plane during the off-season. Most airlines only fly here during the summer season – which is from the end of May until September. 

Cost-wise it isn’t too pricey. On our trip, we paid 90€ for a return flight from Zaventem Brussels. 

The nearest airport to Zakynthos is Zakinthos (ZTH) Airport. You can also connect via other nearby airports like Kefallinia (50.9 km/ 31.62 miles), Preveza (128.4 km/79.90 miles), Corfu (220.4 km/136.702 miles), and Athens (268.2 km/166.52 miles).

You can pick up a rental car from the airport or use a private transfer. Here is a private transfer from the airport to Zakynthos town.

Zakynthos and the Ionian Islands are connected to the ports of Patras and Kyllini. From Zakynthos, you can visit the nearby islands of Ithaka, Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Corfu. 

Depending on the day and the ferry company you choose, the journey can take around 3 to 5 hours. Ferries run daily from Kyllini, Patras to Zakynthos all year round. In summer, there are several boats that sail out daily.

Where to stay in Zakynthos

Many tour operators offer packages with activities and accommodation and this is generally the easiest and cheapest way to arrange your trip to Zakynthos, especially if you are traveling with children. 

Pro tip: Be sure to reserve boat tours and hotels ahead of time in the peak seasons.

If you feel like something a little more authentic, though, here are some great options.

Olea All Suite Hotel

The five-star Olea All Suite Hotel lies right in the midst of nature, surrounded by beautiful olive trees. Surprisingly, it’s still within walking distance of Zakynthos town and the beach. The question is whether you want to leave this beautiful hotel at all! More info and booking can be found here.

Zante Maris Suites

In this beautiful adults-only hotel, enjoyment comes first. It is a five-star venue – you can even book a room with a private pool. For more info and booking click here.

Take a Half-Day Trip to Marathonisi and Keri Caves

Keri Caves is located on the southern coast of Zakynthos, and this is a perfect half-day trip idea where you can go swimming. 

When you start from Zakynthos town, you will arrive at the Argassi Bridge which was constructed in 1885. Stop here for photos, and then continue on to Kalamaki Beach to learn about the turtle nests in the area.

Up next is the town of Laganas and the island of Marathonisi. At Marathonisi, you can admire beautiful caves and white sand beaches and soak in the sun. 

From here, you will finally get to the Keri Caves for a swim. If interested you can also travel to the Aristeon Olive Oil Press, and learn about the long history of olive oil production on the island and taste some samples in the Greek Islands. 

You can also book a day tour here .

Go horse riding

Fancy surprising your other half with a romantic date? Go horse riding along the beach during sunset. 

We did this activity during the bachelorette’s day and were really pleasantly surprised. Laganas Horse Riding Center guided us wonderfully – you can enjoy a ride even with no experience at all.

Explore a Greek Farm and visit Zante Town

The Greek island of Zakynthos is known as “the flower of the East”, and you can experience all of it by embarking on a guided tour at an organic farm. 

As part of the tour , you can also enjoy samples of the local produce. 

You must also explore the town of Zante or Zakynthos. By joining a tour with a local you get to learn about the port city’s history and its art and culture.

Visit the Greek Orthodox St. Dionysios Church, which was named after the patron saint of the island. Spend some time here, and see the silver casket that houses the remains of St. Dionysios.

Scuba Diving 

One of the coolest things about Zakynthos is that you can enjoy beach vibes, cultural exploration and indulge in water activities including scuba diving. 

Turtle Beach Diving Centre, located at Limni Keriou Beach is great for new and advanced divers. You can sign up for a lesson, and they train you and also provide you with diving equipment. 

Swim at Porto Limnionas Beach

Other than scuba diving, you must go swimming at Porto Limnionas Beach. This is one of the prettiest beaches in Zante.

Although small it is truly breathtaking with a secluded cove surrounded by jagged cliffs. This beach does get crowded though (as it is picturesque), so do plan ahead. 

Climb to the Panagia Skopiotissa monastery

Love to hike? Head to the Panagia Skopiotissa monastery. This Monastery is situated on the top of Skopos on the Greek island of Zakynthos, and takes you through a scenic 4-km climb. 

It starts from Argassi Village to the remains of Panagia Skopiotissa via a well-marked walking trail. The old monastery is beautiful and has gone through recent renovations, plus the view from here is magnificent – highly recommended! 

Eat delicious food in Zakynthos – Where to find the best restaurants and markets in  Zakynthos

Holidays and good food go hand in hand (or so my husband always says!). 

Fortunately, there are several restaurants in Zakynthos where you can enjoy delicious meals in a beautiful setting. 

Here’s a list of where you can find the best Greek food during your stay in Zakynthos:

• Nobelos SeaSide Bio Restaurant – The name says it all. The restaurant is located directly on the waterfront, and from your cozy wooden table, you look out over a small beach, a blue-green bay, and many fishing villages. The ultimate holiday feeling! The cocktails can definitely be recommended here as well.
• Porto Roma – Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, and fish, with a beautiful sunset and the sound of the waves in the background. Be sure to try the specialty of the house – delicious lobster spaghetti.
• Tropic’s Beach Bar – The perfect restaurant for anyone who likes good food, tasty cocktails, and a romantic setting.
• Porto Limnionas Tavern – The menu is full of delicious Greek dishes, all reasonably priced. From the terrace you can enjoy a beautiful view over the sea – it’s a place where the people of Zakynthos like to go to relax and enjoy the beautiful nature.
• Mythos Restaurant – Experience the ultimate holiday feeling here. The dishes are simply heaven, and the setting is beautiful and romantic. 

Read next |  The best hotels in Zakynthos 

Zakynthos is a great destination for couples, groups, and families. Keep in mind that it is touristy especially from late June onwards as travelers flock there to have a good time.

For us it was not an obvious destination, in the beginning, we prefer something along the Amalfi Coast . However, Zakynthos is definitely a beautiful place to explore and one with gorgeous scenery, crystal clear waters, art, and great food.

I hope you found this post useful in planning your trip. If you have any questions do let me know in the comments below.

Pin for later: Ultimate travel guide to Zakynthos Greece

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The Best Things to Do in Zakynthos, Greece

The birthplace of revered poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote Greece ’s national anthem, Zakynthos offers no shortage of things to do. Also known as Zante, this laid-back island is surrounded by the deep blue Ionian Sea, home to a huge sea turtle population and awash with silky sand beaches, world-class diving sites and diverse architecture – influenced by the Byzantines , Venetians , French and English . And since this was where the Subwing water-sports craze was created, you can expect plenty of high-adrenaline activities, too.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Take a deep dive

With some 12 spectacular dive sites beneath mirror-clear waters and the chance to meet unique marine fauna – ranging from endangered Mediterranean monk seals to massive sea turtles – it’s no wonder that Zakynthos is hailed as a diver’s paradise. If you want to see schools of barracudas, head for Marzelou reef, also known as Barracuda reef. For bigger fish and tunnel formations, take a deeper dive at Elephant reef. Novice divers will be glad to know that they can hone their skills at Little Bay or Marathonisi .

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos , stretching from the Cape of Marathias to Gerakas Beach, is the best place to spot some of the island’s endangered wildlife. To get up close to turtles and monk seals in an ecofriendly way, book a day trip to Marathonisi, better known as Turtle Island . Before you go, read up on proper etiquette at the Exhibition Centre of the National Marine Park in Agios Ioannis, and make sure to never disturb the turtles.

Hit the town

Rebuilt in the Venetian style after an earthquake destroyed many of the buildings in 1953, Zakynthos Town is a hotchpotch of elegant architecture, cool cafes and streets packed with boutique stores. Make sure you visit the 17th-century mansion of Alexander Roma – former president of the Greek parliament – near Solomos Square, which is packed with family portraits, works of art and period furniture. For a little retail therapy, head to Alexander Roma Street, crammed full of jewellery stores and indie boutiques. If you’re here in August, don’t miss the festival dedicated to patron saint Dionysos, which coincides with a huge, open-air flea market that lasts for over a week.

Get an adrenaline high

Zakynthos is the birthplace of the Subwing, the boat-towed underwater board invented by teen-genius Simon Sivertsen, which lets you glide through the waves like a dolphin. Apart from trying this super subwater sport at the Peligoni Club , adrenaline addicts can get their kicks base-jumping at hard-to-reach Navagio (also known as Shipwreck) Beach, or flyboarding and parachuting above Banana Beach.

Take a train ride

It might sound cheesy, but Zante’s cute little tourist train is a great way to sit back and see more of the island. After taking you out to see the main sights of Zakynthos Town, the toy train plies various routes. To see ceramic makers in a local workshop, visit the laid-back Kalamaki beach resort , or pay a visit to the city’s Venetian castle and a traditional perfume workshop. Look out for other little trains on the island, including the Trainaki leaving from Alykes Beach, which takes you to visit traditional mountain villages.

Climb to Bohali Castle

For the best views over the harbour of Zakynthos Town and the distant, beach-studded Vasiliki peninsula, hike the steep, winding road to Bohali Castle . Once you’ve wandered the ruined battlements of this 15th-century castle repaired by the Venetians, descend to nearby Bohali village, and order a beer and local meze snacks in one of the small cafes. Take water with you – it’s a thirsty climb, and there are no cafes at the top.

Explore the parks on Zakynthos

Zakynthos was dubbed Il Fiore di Levante (Flower of the East) by the Venetians. Even now, if you visit one of the island’s parks you’ll see brilliant carpets of wildflowers, or aroma-filled areas covered with wild herbs – depending on the season. The best of the bunch is Askos Stone Park , where you can wander out along wooded hiking trails and encounter wild animals, including endangered platonia deer.

Visit the Blue Caves

The picturesque coastline of Zakynthos is dotted with limestone caves, but if there’s just one cluster of grottos you need to visit it has to be the Blue Caves – named for the sea’s breathtaking colour here. Only boats can reach these limestone caves near Cape Skinari, but many tours will visit on their way to Shipwreck Beach. Head out in one of the glass-bottom boats with the Potamitis Brothers so that you can see every glittering detail.

Escape the heat in cool museums

As the birthplace of Greece’s national poet and boasting a rich ecosystem, Zakynthos has some great museums where you can escape the midday heat. In the village of Agia Marina, Helmi’s Natural History Museum is packed with rocks, fossils and stuffed animals representing the island’s wilder side. Poetry lovers, on the other hand, should make a beeline for the museum dedicated to local hero Solomos, who penned Greece’s national anthem in 1823. The museum is home to personal items belonging to the poet, but also a mausoleum containing his remains.

Sample sumptuous local food

Zakynthians have been producing world-class, extra-virgin olive oil for millennia – and the 2,000-year-old olive tree in the village of Exo Hora is living proof. Apart from health-giving oil, this food-loving island has plenty of local specialities that you should try, including sofigadoura , a kind of beef stew in a rich tomato sauce, and the egg-white and almond sweet treat mantolato . If you want to learn even more about the local olive oil, head for Aristeon Ecological Olive Press, where you can try your hand at picking olives and even press your own oil during the autumn months.

Looking for more? Make a weekend of it and book a stay at one of the best hotels in Zakynthos . Too pricey? These great budget hotels are a more affordable option. During the day, you can take it easy and relax on one of the best beaches in Zakynthos . To top it all off, you can end your night with a delicious feast at one of these great restaurants .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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A wellness guide to zakynthos, greece.

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Where to go for great local cuisine on zakynthos, greece, bars & cafes, the best bar restaurants on zakynthos, greece.

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The most beautiful beaches to visit in zakynthos, greece.

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Flower Of The East

Far from the more well-known islands like Mykonos and Santorini lies a whole different Greek island experience—Zakynthos, dubbed by early Italian visitors as “Fiore di Levante”—Flower of the East.

And it’s not hard to understand why. Zakynthos Island, or Zante, is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty.

Zakynthos is the third-largest Greek island in the Ionian Sea—off the west coast of Greece as opposed to the Athens-adjacent Aegean Sea off the east coast. Corfu and Zakynthos are probably the most well-known of the Ionian islands.

Here the villages resemble not the whitewashed ramparts of the Cycladic islands, but the Romanesque piazzas and cobblestones of nearby Venice. While you won’t find the postcard-perfect cliffside towns on Zakynthos, the natural beauty more than makes up for it. 

Leave the bustling towns, and you will discover an island paradise on a whole other level—secluded beaches, mysterious caves, sapphire-blue water, loggerhead sea turtle (known by locals as Caretta-Caretta Turtles) nesting sites, seaside fine dining, and five-star resort hotels with infinity pools that overlook the far horizons of the Ionian at sunset.

Find out what to see in Zakynthos, the best Zakynthos photo spots, where to stay in Zakynthos, and where to eat in Zakynthos as well as other Zakynthos travel tips in this bucket list guide to Zakynthos Island.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

How to Get to Zakynthos

Quin and I visited Zakynthos in May of 2021 a week after the Greek Islands opened back up for tourism. As a result, many places were still in the process of opening and quite a few of the ferries weren’t running.

For that reason, and because we were coming from Milos (on the other side of the Greek mainland), we flew. 

Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air offer regular service from Athens to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) year-round. In the summer months, various airlines offer direct service from other European cities to ZTH.

For example, British Airways offers direct seasonal service from London, while Volotea Airlines offers seasonal direct flights from several Italian cities.

Various coastal cities in Greece offer ferry services to the Greek island of Zakynthos. Check FerryHopper for ferry routes, schedules, and prices.

While flying is the faster and more efficient option, taking the ferry to Zakynthos has the added benefit of being breathtaking. If you can spare the time to take the long route, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the eastern Peloponnesian coast, as well as the coast of Zakynthos on approach. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Zakynthos?

The best times of the year to visit Zakynthos are spring and fall. This is the sweet spot of the temperate climate that Zakynthos enjoys.

Summers on Zakynthos tend to be hot. It is also the high tourist season. Winters on Zakynthos can be cold, and while snow is uncommon, rain is not. The balmy spring and autumn months fall on Zakynthos like a dream.

The Best Things To Do on Zakynthos Island

1. see navagio beach (“shipwreck beach”) from above.

How many beaches have an actual pirate ship beached and crumbling for all to see? In the 1980s, a smuggling ship ran aground on this gorgeous strip of sand surrounded by cliffs on the northeast coast of the island, earning this beach the moniker “Shipwreck Beach.” 

Navagio Beach is located on the north-western shores of Zakynthos. Many tourists take the required boat ride to see Navagio shipwreck cove up close.

But if you want to avoid the crowds and snag a priceless photo op, you’ll need to drive or take a cab to the viewpoint of the famous shipwreck beach from above. You can search for “Navagio Beach View” in your navigation to get directions.

You can also easily do both with a tour of Shipwreck Beach .

At the official viewpoint, you’ll find a little balcony with safety railings that allow you to get a little glimpse of Navagio Beach far down below. The better views however require a little more work.

The best views require you to take a ten-minute walk along a rocky path north toward the headlands. Eventually, you will reach a bench that serves as a memorial for someone who presumably fell or jumped from the cliff.

This should serve as a somber reminder to exercise extreme caution while moving around and taking photos.

There is no need to go any further down the headland. This general area provides the best vantage point, with a breathtaking view of the beach, the bay, and the Ionian Sea beyond.

UPDATE: A few people have sent me messages recently to let me know that this viewpoint may no longer be accessible. Apparently, they have built a fence, and there is now a security guard preventing people from taking the trail to this specific vantage point. You can still get an aerial view of Navagio Beach from the official viewpoint, but you won’t see this exact perspective.

2. Explore the North Side of Zakynthos by Boat

There’s scenery to spare on Zakynthos, but the northern coast is particularly notable for the “Blue Caves”— twin cliff arch formations that align just perfectly for a fun photo op.

Plus, when the late morning sunlight hits, the water clarity and the white rocks below combine to express dazzling blue color palettes. 

Most tours of the North Side combine the Blue Caves with Shipwreck Beach and a few other stops as well.

Quin and I actually weren’t particularly interested in visiting Navagio Beach (we’d already taken in the views from above a number of times), so we asked our LuxurE Travel Zakynthos captain to take us to some more remote beaches.

We would cruise along and point out any spot that we thought we might like to photograph. This ended up being one of my favorite days of the entire trip!

There are so many stunning beaches and coves along the North Shore to explore and we had them all to ourselves. I still don’t understand why everyone just heads to Shipwreck. But to each their own! 

3. Explore Hidden Treasure Cave

One of the highlights of a trip to Navagio Beach is a boat tour of the mysterious “Hidden Treasure Cave,” a navigable cave system with blue waterways like something out of a fantasy novel. 

Unfortunately, Quin and I didn’t get the chance to photograph this spot because we didn’t know where it was and didn’t know the name. After we had left, I continued to do a bit of research and was devastated to find that we had missed out on this spot.

Anyway, don’t be like us. Do yourself a favor and google images of “Hidden Treasure Cave,” and then make sure that your boat captain takes you there!  You can even take a tour of this cave system along with Navagio Beach .

4. Cruise the South Side of Zakynthos by Boat

The southern coast of Zakynthos is also worthy of its own dedicated boat trip. This was actually the first area that we explored with LuxurE Travel .

Our first stop was the sub-island of Marathonisi, aka Turtle Island, a priceless nesting site for endangered Caretta Caretta loggerhead turtles. Glass bottom boat tours are available to see the famous residents.

From there we explored the stunning Keri Caves, eventually making it all the way to Mizithres Rocks.

But the best part was having the freedom and flexibility to stop at as many white-sand beaches, turquoise coves, and white cliff caves as we could along the way.

Several tours also offer these stops and are more affordable than a private boat .

5. Go for a Swim in the Prettiest Water You Have Ever Seen at the Best Beaches in Zakynthos

Zakynthos has nothing if it doesn’t have gorgeous beaches—white-sand nooks framed by soaring cliffs with views of crystal clear waters that stretch for miles. You can hardly go wrong with any of the magnificent Zakynthos beaches, but here are a few of the best Zante beaches to get you started:

Plakaki Beach

This glorious rock beach, 2.5 km west of Paleochora, is protected from the harsh winds that sometimes hammer the Greek islands. The water is calm and clear, while the surrounding cliffs offer respite from the harsh sun whenever you need a break to cool your heels.

To get to Plakaki Beach you’ll need to follow a small path down from the parking area until you find a rickety old staircase. The stairs are a bit uneven, so use caution while you descend. Trust me, it will be worth it! 

Korakonissi Beach

Geological forces have formed Korakonissi Beach into a natural marvel—a rocky island with a twenty-meter arch. It’s a fun spot to cool down and sunbathe. Plus, there are some interesting photo ops. That being said, we were a bit disappointed by the amount of garbage we found at this particular beach. 

Porto Limnionas Beach

To avoid crowds, travel 7 km from Agios Leon and walk down a rock formation that forms a natural staircase. When you arrive at Porto Limnionas Beach, you will find flat rocks to sun on and sparkling cold water perfect to cool off or go diving. This beach is slightly more developed than some of the others on this list, giving it that quintessential “European Summer” vibe. 

Porto Vromi

Situated between the villages of Anafonitra and Maries, Porto Vromi is a diver’s playground. The water gets deep quickly and features an underwater dropoff festooned with sea urchins, as well as discarded anchors, seats, and other decaying parts from long-ago ships.

This magical beach is made of white pebbles the size of quail eggs. You won’t have this beach to yourself as it’s a popular spot for people and boats alike. But that doesn’t detract from its beauty. 

Filippoi Beach

One of the best-kept secrets on Zakynthos, and my favorite of the trip, Filippoi Beach is 15 minutes by car from the village of Volimes. Brave the rocky approach, and you will find mysterious caves, epic rock formations, and crystal blue water. If you’re lucky like us, you will have the beach all to yourself. 

6. Get on Google Earth and Find your own slice of paradise. 

If you truly want to leave the beaten path and claim some unique memories, forget tourist maps and go straight to the source—Google Earth.

Google’s collection of satellite images can reveal sequestered beaches and overlooks that tourists have yet to descend upon. When you see something that looks promising, jump in your rental car and go! This is how we found Filippoi Beach, Plakaki Beach, and so many other gems. 

7. Rent a paddle board and explore the coast at your own pace. 

The gentle waters off Zakynthos are perfect to explore by paddleboard. Unencumbered on crystal blue water, you can explore caves, cliffs, and beaches inaccessible by road, with no one but your inner voice to tell you when to stop. 

We rented our paddleboards from Paddle Surf Zante in Alykes Beach. The owner was incredibly nice and spent the time to drop pins on my Google Map App with all the best places to paddle. He also made sure to steer me away from areas where the infamous Greek winds tend to be the strongest. 

Best Zakynthos Photo Spots

1. keri lighthouse.

Built in 1925 to keep ships from running aground, this nine-meter-high tower overlooks a 200-meter cliff with a stunning view of Mizithres beach and its two dramatic rock formations rising from the Ionian. A drink and a meal at sunset from Keri Lighthouse is a photographer’s dream. 

Unfortunately for us, the Keri Lighthouse still had not opened when we were there in May. There were a number of people there sprucing the area up though, so I’m sure it opened shortly after we left. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise though because if it hadn’t been closed, we probably wouldn’t have found the view of Mizithres Beach right next door. 

When to Photograph Keri Lighthouse :

Keri Lighthouse is located on the Southwestern tip of Zakynthos and is best photographed in the late afternoon or at sunset. If you are wanting to capture the bright blue water show up earlier rather than later. 

2. Mizithres Beach 

Get a different angle on the majestic rocks you saw from Keri Lighthouse by veering left instead of right toward the restaurant.

The location you are looking for is actually labeled “Scenic Viewpoint” on Google Maps and is located directly above the Mizithres Rocks.

This is one of the most dramatic and iconic photo ops on Zakynthos. There’s no mistaking it, and the memories will last a lifetime. Just be careful on the edge! 

When to Photograph Mizithres Beach:

Like Keri Lighthouse, Mizithres Beach is located on the Southwestern tip of Zakynthos and is best photographed in the late afternoon or at sunset. If you are wanting to capture the bright blue water show up earlier rather than later.

Note: You are not driving all the way up the road. Stop when it looks like you are parallel to the Mizithres Rocks on your map. Get out of your car, walk to the edge, and prepare to have your mind blown.  

You can also take a sunset cruise to get another view of the rocks and beach with a glass of wine in your hand and the sea breeze in your hair.

3. Shipwreck Beach Overlook 

The sight of that wrecked smuggler ship on pristine Navagio Beach is one of the most iconic sights in Greece. Hike out to the highest vantage point over Navagio Beach for priceless images of this arresting vista. 

When to Photograph Shipwreck Beach Overlook :

Due to the high cliffs surrounding the beach, there will be a strong shadow across the water in the morning. Mid-day is a great time to photograph Shipwreck Beach if you want to capture the stunning blue water at its brightest.

This is also the time of day that the cove and beach will be the most crowded with people and boats – which could be a bad or a good thing depending on what you are going for.

I actually preferred the scene with some boats because I felt that it gave some much-needed perspective and scale.

Late afternoon and evening is also a lovely time to be there. The water won’t be quite as bright, but there’s something magical about that soft golden hour light. 

Note: You need to drive to the overlook for the view looking down on the beach. The viewpoint is NOT accessible from the beach. 

4. Potamitis Windmill Stairway 

On the northern tip of Zakynthos lies Potamitis Windmill, as charming and picturesque a Greek whitewashed windmill as you’ll find on Zakynthos.

Operated as a family-run bed-and-breakfast with three units, you don’t have to stay the night to memorialize the sight in photographs.

Pay a small fee and you can grab some shots of the beautiful stairway that winds its way down to the spectacularly blue water below. Make sure to put aside some extra time to cool down in the water and maybe even try out the diving board! 

5. Blue Caves

The Blue Caves on the northern coast of Zakynthos , accessible by boat or paddleboard, are evocative locations for photographers to play with light, shadow, and every shade of blue imaginable.

Because it’s located on the northeastern side of Zakynthos you’ll get the best lighting in the late morning. In the afternoon, this side of the coast will likely be in the shade.

6. Every random beach you pass on a boat excursion! 

You can’t go wrong on this magical island. With a charter boat, kayak, or paddleboard, amazing photo ops can be found around every rocky corner. Ditch the itinerary, awaken to the moment, and follow your heart to a photo op that’s all your own! 

Where To Stay in Zakynthos – Luxury Hotels, Airbnbs, and More

During our trip to Zakynthos, we stayed at Olea All-Suite and Villa Amara Airbnb. Because I know that these options are not for everyone, I decided to do something I’ve never done for a blog post before and do some crowdsourcing with my Instagram community to find out where people’s favorite restaurants and hotels on Zakynthos are.

So now, you don’t have to just take my word for it! Below you will find the most frequently recommended hotels from people who have actually stayed there to help you figure out where to stay in Zakynthos.

Olea All-Suite Hotel

Nestled in an olive orchard ten minutes from Zante Town, this five-star luxury Zakynthos resort boasts 93 guest suites and three gourmet restaurants and is ten minutes on foot from Tsilivi Beach—the perfect place to relax in splendor and the perfect jumping-off point for any Zakynthos adventure.

We spent one night here, and it was definitely a highlight of the trip. That being said, I’m glad we didn’t stay there any longer or I may have never wanted to leave and explore the island! 

Located a mere 80 meters from Tsilivi Beach, Lesante offers five-star accommodations with many rooms overlooking the sea, as well as a piano lounge where you can sip cocktails or champagne while listening to jazz music.

Wild Fig Retreat (AirBNB)

For a different approach to luxury accommodations, book an apartment at this boutique Airbnb, set amid olive trees and grapevines in the northwest reaches of the island. You can enjoy a sprawling pool and hot tub, yoga, and massage services, without another house in sight.

Crystal Beach Hotel 

Situated in Zakynthos National Marine Park, a stone’s throw away from Caretta-Caretta sea turtle breed grounds, Crystal Beach Hotel is perhaps best known for the excellent Pelouzo Restaurant, where you can dine on exquisite cuisine with views of the islands of Pelouzo and Marathonisi. The party town of Laganas is less than two kilometers away—close enough to enjoy, but far enough to escape.

Where To Eat in Zakynthos – The Best Zakynthos Restaurants

Adjacent to Zakynthos Port, Madisons is the beating heart of Zakynthos gastronomy, obsessed with fresh ingredients and creative takes on classic Greek flavors. I don’t think I’d be exaggerating if I said that we ate at Madisons for probably 1/3 of our meals to enjoy this delicious Greek food.

Granted a lot of restaurants were still closed, but we really enjoyed the diversity of different food Madisons offered. Especially the smoothies! 

Paradosiako 

It’s worth the trip to Alykes just to eat at Paradosiako. Since 1996 they have been offering fresh takes on classic Zakynthian cuisine—honoring the traditions of the island but adding something as well.

Restaurant Dennis 

In business since 1976, this quintessential Zakynthian tavern is packed with soul and authenticity—the true flavor of Zakynthos.

Nobelos 

You haven’t had a romantic dinner until you have toasted to love with your sweetheart at Nobelos, a bistro carved into the rocks above a private beach. One of the most swoon-worthy restaurants in the world. 

Zakynthos Travel Tips – Things To Know Before You Go To Zakynthos 

1. rent a car to get around zakynthos. .

Zakynthos is a relatively large island and it can take up to a couple hours to get between destinations. With a rental car at your disposal, you can explore the beaches, villages, and crevices of Zakynthos at your own pace, without having to conform to the schedule of a tour group or shuttle service.

You can rent a car in Zakynthos Town, or ferry your mainland Greek rental over to the island.

2. You may need an International Driver’s License to hire a car in Greece. 

US citizens must apply for and receive an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally on Greek roads—Zakynthos included.

Rental companies might not demand to see your IDP … but a police officer might demand to see it if you get pulled over. If you don’t have it, you might face additional fines.

You can apply for an IDP while still in the US through organizations like the National Automobile Club (NAC) or AAA.

3. Avoid Laganas unless you’re there to party. 

Locals may direct you to Laganas, a resort town on the shallow and calm shore of Laganas Bay. Known for its lively nightlife, Laganas is great for a party, but not much else. If you’re here to relax and discover epic scenery, leave Laganas to the party crowd.

4. Pack your Dramamine for boat excursions around Zakynthos. 

Many of the most spectacular sights and activities on Zakynthos are accessible by boat, or at the end of winding roads. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, nausea could throw a big wet blanket on what otherwise might be a once-in-a-lifetime delight. Stock up on Dramamine to calm your stomach at the moments that matter.

5. Avoid Group Tours on Zakynthos.

Group tours of Zakynthos are available, but they tend to be crowded and focus on “touristy” attractions. Moreover, the tours might not conform to your schedule—they could make you set alarms when you wish you could sleep in, or make you leave a magical destination before you are ready.

Trust your instincts and strike out on your own. Whether it’s hidden beaches, off-the-map cafes, or the cobblestoned byways of Zakynthos Town, Zakynthos is best when you allow yourself to get lost.

If tours are the only way for you to see the island, I’ve linked some options above, but I always prefer exploring places like this on my own or with private tours. Some of the tours linked in this post are private tours or offer them, and I highly recommend that option over group tours when it works for your budget.

6. If you’re on a budget, don’t rent a boat through an agency. 

Many agencies allow you to charter a rental watercraft online in advance of your trip. This may be tempting—you don’t want to be left high and dry by the time you get there!

But resist that temptation—renting from the port is far less expensive. If you time your vacation right, there will be plenty of boats available. 

7. Expect delays. Ferries don’t always run when you expect them to. 

If you’re a punctual person, you might find the ferries to, from, and around Zakynthos frustrating. Greek islands tend to be flexible about schedules.

Relax—most likely, you are here to kick back and relax, so start by unplugging from the anxiety of punctuality. You’ll get there! The journey is half the experience.  

8. Google Maps is not always your best friend on Zakynthos. 

If you are like many plugged-in modern people, you are used to whipping out Google Maps on your phone to find nearby stores, restaurants, or the best route to a destination. This doesn’t always work on Zakynthos.

The Google Business listings may not be updated or may be non-existent. Google might not be able to find the destination you are looking for or the best route to it. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions if need be!

9. Be aware of the Meltemi, the infamous Greek winds.

Greek islands like Zakynthos are notoriously buffeted by Meltemi , dry north winds that can make it uncomfortable to be outside. The winds tend to pick up in the afternoon and dissipate by nighttime. Be careful, though—sometimes Meltemi can blow for days on end. 

10. Don’t drink the tap water on Zakynthos.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Greece, but island tap water can be salty, and drinking it could dehydrate you. Plus, it tastes horrible.

It shouldn’t contain harmful bacteria or parasites, so you are safe to shower in it and brush your teeth. For drinking, stick to bottled water.

Is Zakynthos Worth It?

I have to say a resounding yes! While we visited at a time when tourism was slower, the beauty of this island cannot be ignored even if you visit in the height of the summer crowds.

With so many shades of blue water, sea caves, white sand, and a variety of spectacular views that will fill your photo library, I would highly recommend a stop in Zakynthos on any Greek island itinerary.

That’s it! I hope you have an amazing trip to Zakynthos Greece. If you have any other tips for the island I would love to hear about them in the comments below.

Photos In Collaboration With Quin Schrock

Looking for more options for Zakynthos? Here are some tours to consider!

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Greece is definitely on my bucket list. I am a fan of your work. So keep traveling and posting. Thanks for what you do!

Thanks so much! Glad to hear that it’s on your bucket list. I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations, and I hope it does the same for you when you make it there.

thanks for the useful info!! please continue with this blog, its really helpful for me!

That’s amazing to hear. Thanks! I will definitely continue to publish articles on this blog as long as I feel like people are finding it useful. 🙂

Incredibly in depth and thorough Jess! Hope to take my husband and our son there someday 🙂

Thanks so much Katie! I hope you make it there someday too. It was such an amazing destination.

Love this!! Planning to go to Greece for the first time next year and this blog gives me so many good ideas! Keep it up 🙂

Amazing! It was one of my all time favorite trips. I hope you have a wonderful time. 🙂

what a great inspiring piece of information you wrote here – thank you so much!

Thanks Henriette! I really appreciate you stopping by and saying hi on my post.

Hi Jess, your pictures from Zakynthos are stunning! I am in love 😍 Which lens did you primarily use while being on Zakynthos?

Thanks so much Magdalena! In Zakynthos we primarily used a 16-35 f4 lens.

Totally referring to this when planning elopements for my couples! I’m amazed at how jam packed this guide is, you’re the friggin best, I bet this took so much work and time so thank you!! You add so so much value 🙏 Alsooo BEAUTIFUL pics 🔥

So glad that you found it helpful Kimberly! Thanks so much for the comment, it’s always encouraging to hear that one of my guides might be used to plan a special trip or elopement! Best of luck out there. 🙂

Great blog!

Thanks so much Marie!

Love this blog post! It was been so helpful in my planning! What boat package did you do?

Thanks Jordan! So glad you found it helpful. We did two different boat trips while in Zakynthos. One up north to see Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves and one down south to the Keri Caves area. Both were stunning.

I just found your blog because me and my boyfriend are traveling to Zakynthos in 3 weeks and am so grateful for all the information! All your information is really helpful and we’re definitely going to explore the island by ourselves. Keep up the good work! 🙂 oh and the photos are gorgeous!

This is so amazing to hear! Really appreciate you leaving a comment to let me know you found the article helpful. I hope you and your boyfriend have an amazing trip. Zakynthos is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been!

Superb Photograph! Amazing place to go & just want to enjoy life over this wonderful place. Thanks for sharing a fabulous article . Cheers!

Thank you so much! Zakynthos was hands down one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been, so it wasn’t hard to make it look good.

Hi Jess! I love your post. I am going to Greece in June and I want to go to Zakynthos, it looks amazing. Do you think 3 nights es enaugh for this island? Regards from Argentina

Hey Agustina! Zakynthos is a pretty big island with a lot to see, but I think it would still be worth going for 3 nights. Make sure to do at least one day out on a boat! You can see a lot from the water.

We just arrived on the island yesterday. Now is so nice warm and peaceful. Thank you for your great blogpost about Zakyntos, really helpful and i love how you write. We also rented a villa and it is so nice😊

How wonderful! It’s still one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been and I’m so glad that you had the opportunity to experience it. The villa sounds like an amazing option. Hope you enjoyed your trip!

Zakynthos is my “go to” destination most years. Usually rent a cheap apartment but this year, treated myself to Maritimus Excelsior, right on the beach in Alykes. Luxury apartment – sleeps 5. Beautiful garden, gate opens right on the beach.

Sounds lovely Judith. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Great post and great tips! Love visiting Navagio Beach, it looks so beautiful from above!! Would you say it is safe for young kids to go up there?

I believe they now have the area that my photos were taken fenced off. But there are a few official lookout points up there that should be safe for kids.

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Hi, I’m Jess, an outdoor enthusiast based in Seattle. I grew up exploring the Pacific Northwest, and early on was infected with the travel bug. I tried to suppress my wanderlust in pursuit of a traditional career path, but after a short stint as a lawyer, I left the confines of my office to get back in touch with my roots. Now, I wander the world taking photos, making memories, and sharing my love for travel with others!

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Complete Zakynthos travel guide: Visiting Zakynthos Island (Zante) and discover the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece

When planning your Greece tours , one destination that should undoubtedly be on your list is Zakynthos, also known as Zante. Situated amidst the enchanting Ionian Islands, Zakynthos beckons with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

In this comprehensive Zakynthos travel guide, we'll explore the myriad things to do on this Greek island, from visiting the iconic Shipwreck Beach to encountering its magnificent sea turtles. 

Join us on a journey through Zakynthos, as we provide you with the essential insights to make the most of your Greece tours and immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating destination.

What is the history of Zakynthos, Greece, and its significance as an Ionian island?

The history of Zakynthos, Greece, is rich and diverse, with the island holding a significant place in the Ionian Islands' historical narrative.

Zakynthos has a long and storied past dating back to ancient times. It was originally inhabited by the Mycenaean Greeks in the Bronze Age. Throughout its history, the island was influenced and occupied by various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and the Ottoman Empire. This historical tapestry has left its mark on Zakynthos in the form of architectural, cultural, and artistic influences.

One of the island's notable historical events was the 1953 earthquake, which resulted in significant destruction. However, it also presented an opportunity for Zakynthos to rebuild and modernize its infrastructure while preserving its heritage.

Zakynthos holds cultural significance as the birthplace of several renowned Greek poets and writers, including Dionysios Solomos, whose poem "Hymn to Liberty" served as the inspiration for the Greek national anthem.

Today, Zakynthos is not only celebrated for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and pristine beaches in the heart of the Ionian Islands.

Where is Zakynthos located within the Ionian Islands, and what makes its geography unique?

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is situated within the Ionian Islands in Greece, a picturesque archipelago in the western part of Greece. Its unique geography is a significant part of its allure.

Zakynthos Island in the Ionian Sea is the southernmost of the Ionian Islands. It is relatively close to the Greek mainland, lying approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) off the western coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula. The island covers an area of around 405 square kilometers (156 square miles), making it the third-largest among the Ionian Islands, after Kefalonia and Corfu.

One of the most distinctive features of Zakynthos is its diverse landscape. The island boasts a stunning coastline with numerous pristine beaches, including the famous Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach) with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The interior of Zakynthos is characterized by lush green hills, fertile plains, and vineyards.

What sets the Island of Zakynthos apart is its remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The island's geography allows for a wide range of outdoor activities, from water sports along its coastline to hiking and exploring its interior. Moreover, the location of the island in the Islan provides a milder climate compared to other parts of Greece, making it an attractive destination year-round.

How can you get to Zakynthos from Athens and other major cities in Greece?

Getting to Zakynthos from Athens  and other major cities in Greece is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available:

By Air: The most convenient and common way to reach Zakynthos is by air. Zakynthos International Airport "Dionysios Solomos" (ZTH) is well-connected to Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (ATH) and several other Greek cities. Numerous domestic airlines operate daily flights to Zakynthos, offering both direct and connecting flights. The flight from Athens to Zakynthos takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

By Ferry: If you prefer a more scenic route and have some extra time to spare, you can take a ferry from the Greek mainland or other nearby islands. Ferries depart from the port of Kyllini on the Peloponnese Peninsula and connect to Zakynthos. The ferry journey provides breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, and the duration of the trip varies depending on the type of ferry but typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Ferries are also available from other Ionian Islands, such as Kefalonia and Corfu.

By Bus and Ferry Combination: If you are traveling on a budget or looking for an adventurous route, you can take a bus from Athens to Kyllini and then catch a ferry to Zakynthos. This option offers a more economical way to reach the island, but it can be more time-consuming.

By Car: If you are already in Greece and have access to a car, you can drive to the port of Kyllini on the Peloponnese and take your vehicle on the ferry to Zakynthos. This is a convenient option for those who want to explore the island at their own pace.

It's essential to check the schedules and availability of flights and ferries in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they can fill up quickly. Additionally, consider your budget, time constraints, and preferences when choosing the mode of transportation that best suits your needs.

When is the best time to visit Zakynthos Island (Zante), considering weather and tourist seasons?

The best time to visit Zakynthos Island, also known as Zante, depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons to help you plan your trip:

Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Zakynthos as the island begins to bloom with wildflowers. The weather is mild and gradually warms up, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. Crowds are relatively low, and accommodation prices are more budget-friendly compared to the peak summer season.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the high tourist season in Zante Island. The weather is hot and sunny, making it ideal for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The island comes alive with festivals and events. However, it's also the busiest time, with many tourists flocking to Zakynthos. Accommodations and flights can be more expensive, and popular attractions and beaches may be crowded.

Autumn (September to November): Early autumn, particularly September, is considered by many as the best time to visit Zakynthos. The weather is still warm and pleasant, but the crowds begin to thin out as the summer peak season comes to an end. Sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming, and you can enjoy the beauty of the island without the hustle and bustle.

Winter (December to February): Zakynthos experiences a mild and wet winter. While temperatures rarely drop to freezing levels, it's the least popular time for tourists due to cooler and rainy weather. Many businesses and tourist services may be closed during this season, so it's not ideal for a typical beach vacation. However, if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere and want to experience local life, you can visit during the winter months.

Who should consider visiting Zakynthos, and what type of traveler does it cater to?

Zakynthos caters to a wide range of travelers, making it a versatile destination suitable for various interests and preferences. Here's a breakdown of who should consider visiting Zakynthos and the types of travelers the island appeals to:

Beach Lovers: Zakynthos is renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, including the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach). Travelers who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and water sports will find Zakynthos to be a paradise.

Nature Enthusiasts: The island's diverse geography offers opportunities for nature lovers to explore lush forests, caves, and hiking trails. Zakynthos is also known for its diverse wildlife, including the loggerhead sea turtles that nest on its beaches. Additionally, visitors can explore Turtle Island, a small islet just off the coast of Zakynthos, which serves as an important nesting site for these majestic sea turtles.

Cultural Explorers: History buffs and those interested in Greek culture will appreciate Zakynthos' historical sites, traditional villages, and museums. The island's cultural heritage, including the poetry of Dionysios Solomos, adds depth to its appeal.

Adventure Seekers: Zakynthos offers various adventure activities, such as scuba diving, windsurfing, and boat trips to hidden coves and caves. Adventurous travelers will find plenty of opportunities to get their adrenaline pumping.

Romantic Getaways: The island's picturesque landscapes, sunsets, and secluded beaches make it an excellent destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat or honeymoon.

Families: Zakynthos is family-friendly, with many accommodations and attractions suitable for families. The calm waters of some beaches are ideal for children, and there are family-oriented activities and excursions.

Partygoers: While not as famous for nightlife as some other Greek islands, Zakynthos has a lively nightlife scene in areas like Laganas, attracting partygoers and young travelers looking for entertainment.

Budget Travelers: Zakynthos offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and hostels. Travelers on a budget can find affordable dining options and activities.

Relaxation Seekers: If your idea of a perfect vacation involves relaxation and rejuvenation, Zakynthos has tranquil spots where you can unwind and enjoy the serenity of the Ionian Sea.

Why should you include Zakynthos in your Greece tours itinerary?

Including Zakynthos in your Greece tours itinerary is a fantastic choice for several compelling reasons:

Natural Beauty: Zakynthos is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. The iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach) is a must-see attraction, offering a unique and picturesque setting.

Rich History: The island boasts a fascinating history, including its role in Greek culture and as the birthplace of poet Dionysios Solomos. You can explore historical sites, traditional villages, and museums to delve into Zakynthos' heritage.

Outdoor Activities: Whether you enjoy water sports, hiking, or simply basking in the sun, Zakynthos offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat trips to hidden caves are popular choices.

Unique Wildlife: Zakynthos is a vital nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, and you can witness the conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures. Observing sea turtles in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

Culinary Delights: Greek cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors, and Zakynthos is no exception. You can savor local dishes, fresh seafood, and traditional Greek meze at tavernas and restaurants across the island.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending festivals, exploring historic monasteries, and interacting with friendly Zakynthian residents.

Romantic Getaways: Zakynthos' picturesque landscapes, secluded beaches, and romantic sunsets make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape.

Adventure Opportunities: From boat trips to exploring underwater caves, Zakynthos offers various adventure activities, making it perfect for thrill-seekers.

Island Hopping: Zakynthos is conveniently located within the Ionian Islands, making it an excellent starting point for island hopping adventures to nearby destinations like Kefalonia and Corfu.

Scenic Drives: The island's winding coastal roads and scenic viewpoints provide opportunities for memorable road trips and exploration.

Relaxation: Whether you prefer tranquil beaches, spa retreats, or peaceful countryside, Zakynthos offers numerous spots for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Incorporating Zakynthos into your Greece tours allows you to experience a well-rounded blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and memorable adventures, making it a rewarding addition to your travel itinerary.

How much does a trip to Zakynthos typically cost, including accommodations and activities?

The cost of a trip to Zakynthos can vary widely depending on various factors, including your travel style, the duration of your stay, your choice of accommodation, and the activities you plan to undertake. However, here's a rough estimate of what you can expect in terms of expenses:

Accommodation:

• Budget: Hostels and budget hotels can range from €20 to €80 per night.
• Mid-Range: 3-star and 4-star hotels typically cost between €80 to €200 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale resorts and boutique hotels can go beyond €200 per night.

Food: Dining costs can also vary:

• Budget: Dining at local tavernas and casual eateries may cost around €10 to €20 per person per meal.
• Mid-Range: Dining at mid-range restaurants can cost between €20 to €40 per person.
• Fine Dining: Upscale dining experiences can exceed €40 per person.

Activities: The cost of activities will depend on your choices:

• Boat trips and excursions to attractions like Shipwreck Beach can range from €20 to €60 or more.
• Water sports, such as snorkeling or scuba diving, may cost between €30 to €80 per activity.
• Entrance fees to museums and historical sites are generally affordable, with prices typically under €10.

Transportation:

• Transportation expenses include flights or ferry tickets to Zakynthos and local transportation on the island. Flight prices vary by season and departure location, but budget for at least €100 to €200 for a return flight from Athens. Ferry prices can range from €10 to €30 one-way, depending on the type of ferry and your departure point.

Miscellaneous Costs:

• Don't forget to budget for additional expenses such as souvenirs, travel insurance, and unexpected expenses. This can vary greatly depending on your personal preferences.

Total Estimate:

• Budget Travelers: A budget traveler can expect to spend around €50 to €80 per day, excluding flights, on shared accommodations, affordable dining, and basic activities.
• Mid-Range Travelers: Mid-range travelers should budget approximately €100 to €200 per day, including moderately priced accommodations, dining at a mix of restaurants, and various activities.
• Luxury Travelers: Luxury travelers may spend €250 or more per day, enjoying upscale accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive experiences.

Keep in mind that these estimates are approximate, and actual expenses may vary based on your specific choices and travel habits. Additionally, the time of year you visit Zakynthos can significantly impact prices, with peak summer months generally being more expensive than the shoulder or off-seasons.

What are the options for places to stay in Zakynthos, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations?

Zakynthos offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are some of the options you can consider when looking for a place to stay on the island:

Luxury Resorts: Zakynthos boasts several upscale resorts that provide a lavish and pampering experience. These resorts often come with private beaches, spa facilities, gourmet dining, and various amenities. Examples include Porto Zante Villas & Spa, Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort, and Olea All Suite Hotel.

Boutique Hotels: Boutique hotels on the island offer a combination of luxury and personalized service in a smaller, more intimate setting. These accommodations often have unique decor and character. Notable choices include Zante Maris Suites, Armonia Boutique Hotel, and Avalon Hotel - Adults Only.

Mid-Range Hotels: Zakynthos has numerous mid-range hotels that offer comfortable and well-appointed rooms without the high-end price tag. Some examples include Diana Palace Hotel, Palatino Hotel, and Diana Hotel.

Budget-Friendly Hotels: Travelers on a budget can find affordable hotels and guesthouses in Zakynthos Town and other parts of the island. These accommodations provide basic amenities and comfortable stays at a reasonable cost. Consider options like Hotel Varres, Phoenix Hotel, and Hotel Palmyra.

Hostels: For backpackers and budget-conscious travelers, hostels are a cost-effective choice. They offer shared dormitory-style accommodations and communal spaces. Cactus Hotel and Youth Hostel Zante are popular hostels on the island.

Holiday Rentals: Zakynthos also offers a variety of holiday rentals, including apartments, villas, and houses, which are ideal for families or larger groups. Booking platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list numerous rental properties across the island.

Campsites: Camping enthusiasts can find campsites on Zakynthos that offer a more budget-friendly and nature-focused accommodation experience. One such campsite is Camping Zante, located near Tsilivi Beach.

All-Inclusive Resorts: Some resorts on the island offer all-inclusive packages, providing guests with meals, drinks, and entertainment included in the price. These can be a convenient option for those looking to relax without worrying about extra expenses.

When choosing accommodation in Zakynthos, consider your budget, preferred location (beachfront, town center, or countryside), and the type of amenities you desire. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to secure the best deals and availability.

What is the recommended dress code for visitors in Zakynthos, especially at religious sites or beaches?

In Zakynthos, as in many parts of Greece, there are certain dress code expectations, especially when visiting religious sites and beaches. Here are some recommendations for appropriate dress in different settings:

Religious Sites (Churches and Monasteries):

• Both men and women should dress modestly when visiting religious sites. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
• For women, it's advisable to wear a skirt or dress that covers the knees or to carry a shawl or scarf that can be used to cover your shoulders and knees when entering a church or monastery.
• Men should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts or shorts that are very short when visiting these sites.
• Beach attire, such as swimsuits and cover-ups, is acceptable and expected at the beach.
• However, when leaving the beach and entering nearby shops, restaurants, or cafes, it's courteous to put on a cover-up or T-shirt and shorts to avoid walking around in just a swimsuit.
• Topless sunbathing is generally not common or encouraged on most Greek beaches, and it may not be appreciated.

Town Centers and Restaurants:

• In the town centers, restaurants, and other public places, casual and comfortable clothing is typically suitable.
• Greeks often dress smartly for dinner at restaurants, so you may want to dress slightly more formal in the evenings if you plan to dine out.

It's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites, as many of them hold cultural and historical significance. Being mindful of the dress code and adhering to it helps show respect for the local culture and the importance of these places to the community. However, on the beach and in tourist areas, you have more flexibility with your attire, as long as it's appropriate for the setting.

What are the opening hours for key attractions and businesses in Zakynthos?

The opening hours for key attractions and businesses in Zakynthos can vary depending on the time of year and the specific establishment. Here are some general guidelines for common types of businesses and attractions:

General Business Hours:

• Banks: Banks in Zakynthos typically operate from Monday to Friday, with opening hours from around 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Some banks may also open on Saturday mornings.
• Post Offices: Post offices follow similar hours to banks, usually opening around 8:00 AM and closing at 2:00 PM on weekdays.
• Shops and Boutiques: Most shops, including supermarkets and retail stores, open around 9:00 AM and close for a few hours in the early afternoon. They then reopen in the late afternoon and stay open until approximately 9:00 PM, especially in tourist areas. Some shops may close for a few hours during the afternoon "siesta" period.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Restaurants typically open for lunch service around noon and for dinner service around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM. Many cafes remain open throughout the day, serving beverages and light snacks.
• Bars and Nightclubs: Bars and nightclubs have varying opening hours, with some opening in the evening and staying open until the early morning hours, especially during the summer season.

Key Attractions:

• Museums and Historical Sites: The opening hours for museums and historical sites can vary, but they typically open in the morning, around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM, and close in the early evening, around 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Some may have extended hours during the summer season.
• Religious Sites: Churches and monasteries may have different opening hours, but they often open in the morning and close for a few hours in the afternoon. Visitors are encouraged to check specific hours with each site.
• Beaches: Beaches in Zakynthos are generally open year-round, but the best time to enjoy them is during daylight hours. Some beaches have designated lifeguard hours during the summer months.

It's important to note that opening hours can vary from place to place, so it's a good idea to check with specific attractions, restaurants, or businesses for their exact hours of operation, especially if you plan to visit during the off-peak season or holidays when hours may be adjusted. During the summer season, many places catering to tourists tend to have longer operating hours to accommodate the influx of visitors.

How can you make the most of your trip with this complete Zakynthos travel guide, including must-visit beaches and cultural experiences on the island?

To make the most of your trip to Zakynthos and fully enjoy the island's stunning beaches and cultural experiences, follow this comprehensive travel guide:

Plan Your Itinerary: Start by planning your itinerary, taking into account the duration of your stay and your interests. Make a list of the must-visit beaches, historical sites, and cultural experiences you want to explore.

Visit Iconic Beaches:

• Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach): This world-famous beach, with its dramatic shipwreck and crystal-clear waters, is a must-visit. Take a boat tour to get the best views and enjoy swimming.
• Laganas Beach: Laganas is one of the island's longest beaches, known for its vibrant nightlife and sea turtle nesting sites.
• Gerakas Beach: Visit this protected beach to spot sea turtles and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Explore Zakynthos Town:

• Spend time exploring Zakynthos Town (Chora), the capital of the island. Visit Solomos Square, where you'll find museums, shops, and cafes.
• Explore the Church of St. Dionysios, the patron saint of the island. The church houses his relics and is an important religious site.

Discover Cultural Experiences:

• Attend local festivals and events if your visit coincides with them. The island hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, arts, and traditions.
• Visit traditional villages like Volimes and Keri to experience Zakynthian culture, architecture, and local crafts.

Learn About Zakynthos' History:

• Explore the Byzantine Museum in Zakynthos Town, which showcases religious artifacts and icons.
• Visit the Venetian Castle of Zakynthos, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the town.

Engage in Water Activities:

• Zakynthos offers excellent opportunities for water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Consider joining a guided snorkeling or diving excursion to explore underwater caves and marine life.

Taste Zakynthian Cuisine:

• Savor Zakynthian dishes at local tavernas. Try traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and seafood specialties.
• Sample local wine, such as Verdea, and enjoy a mezze-style meal with small plates of various appetizers.

Be Respectful of Nature:

• If you visit the nesting sites of sea turtles, follow guidelines for responsible tourism, including maintaining a respectful distance from the turtles and not disturbing their nests.
• Participate in eco-friendly tours and activities that promote conservation efforts.

Relax and Enjoy the Scenery:

• Spend time simply relaxing on the beaches, watching the sunset, and taking in the island's natural beauty.

Capture Memories:

• Don't forget to capture your Zakynthos experience with photos and videos to cherish the memories of your trip.

By following this travel guide, you can make the most of your trip to Zakynthos, enjoying its beautiful beaches, cultural richness, and unique experiences on this enchanting Greek island.

What are some additional things to do in Zakynthos beyond its famous beaches?

Beyond its famous beaches, Zakynthos offers a variety of additional activities and attractions to explore. Here are some things to do on the island:

Explore the Blue Caves: Take a boat tour to the Blue Caves, a series of striking sea caves known for their vivid blue waters and impressive rock formations. The Blue Caves are located on the northern tip of the island near Cape Skinari.

Turtle Watching: Zakynthos is home to the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). You can join organized boat trips to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, especially in the Laganas Bay area.

Hiking and Nature Trails: Discover the island's natural beauty by hiking through its lush landscapes. Explore the Skopos Trail, a popular hiking route that leads to scenic viewpoints overlooking the southern coast.

Boat Trips and Excursions: Beyond Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves, you can embark on various boat trips and excursions to explore hidden coves, caves, and other parts of the coastline. Some tours include stops for swimming, snorkeling, and picnics.

Vineyard Tours: Visit local vineyards and wineries to taste Zakynthian wines, such as the white Verdea and the sweet dessert wine, Avgoustiatis. Learn about the winemaking process and sample local varietals.

Visit Monasteries: Zakynthos has several monasteries, including the Monastery of St. George Krimnon and the Monastery of Anafonitria, which offer peaceful settings and a glimpse into religious and historical aspects of the island.

Explore Traditional Villages: Wander through picturesque villages like Volimes, Keri, and Kampi, where you can admire traditional Zakynthian architecture, visit local shops, and savor traditional Greek cuisine.

Attend a Greek Night: Experience Greek culture through a Greek night at a local taverna or restaurant. These evenings typically feature live music, traditional dancing, and a hearty Greek feast.

Zakynthos Water Village: If you're traveling with family, consider a visit to the Zakynthos Water Village, a water park with slides, pools, and fun activities for all ages.

Sunset Watching: Enjoy spectacular sunsets from scenic viewpoints such as Keri Lighthouse and the cliffs of Porto Roxa. Zakynthos offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views in the Mediterranean.

Visit the Venetian Castle of Zakynthos: Explore the ruins of this medieval castle located near Zakynthos Town. The site offers historical significance and panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas.

Engage in Water Sports: In addition to swimming, Zakynthos offers opportunities for various water sports, including windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing.

Cultural Events and Festivals: Check if there are any cultural events, festivals, or local celebrations taking place during your visit. These events often include music, dance, and traditional performances.

These additional activities and attractions on Zakynthos allow you to delve deeper into the island's natural beauty, history, and culture, enhancing your overall experience beyond its famous beaches.

What are some of the nearby islands that travelers can explore from Zakynthos, and what unique attractions or experiences do each of these islands offer?

Zakynthos is located in the Ionian Sea and is surrounded by several other beautiful islands, making it a great starting point for island hopping adventures. Some of the islands that are close to Zakynthos include:

Kefalonia: Kefalonia, one of the largest Ionian Islands, is located to the north of Zakynthos. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and the underground Melissani Lake.

Ithaca (Ithaki): Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus, is situated to the northeast of Zakynthos. It offers a tranquil atmosphere, charming towns, and lovely beaches.

Lefkada (Lefkas): Lefkada is to the north of Zakynthos and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It is famous for its dramatic coastline, beautiful beaches like Porto Katsiki, and vibrant nightlife.

Corfu (Kerkyra): Corfu, the northernmost Ionian Island, is located to the northwest of Zakynthos. It is known for its Venetian architecture, historic Old Town, and lush green landscapes.

Paxos: Paxos is a small island to the west of mainland Greece and not far from Zakynthos. It's known for its charming villages, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

Antipaxos: Antipaxos is a tiny island just south of Paxos. It's famous for its beautiful beaches and vineyards that produce excellent wine.

Kythira: Although not in the Ionian Sea, Kythira is relatively close to Zakynthos. It's located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea and is known for its unspoiled beauty, picturesque villages, and historical sites.

Island hopping between these neighboring islands allows travelers to experience the diversity of the Ionian and Aegean Seas, each with its unique charm, landscapes, and cultural heritage. Ferries and boat tours are available to facilitate island exploration and hopping from Zakynthos to these nearby destinations.

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Zakynthos Boat Tours: BEST Boat Trips in Zante, Greece

Posted on Last updated: October 29, 2023

Looking for the best boat trips in Zakynthos, Greece? You just found them!

In this article I have outlined all of the best boat tours in Zante, for every travel style and budget. Including overviews of the different boat types and itineraries, what to expect, how to choose one and more.

Located in the Ionian Sea, to the west of mainland Greece, Zante is one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe, and it’s easy to see why.

With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, delicious cuisine and stunning natural beauty, it attracts thousands of travellers every summer. Being an island, boat tours are one of the most popular things to do in Zante.

Exploring the coast of Zakynthos by boat means reaching hidden beaches and caves that you can’t otherwise reach via land, as well as spending an enjoyable day out at sea.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and discover everything you need to know to choose the perfect Zante boat trip for you!

• 1 Should you do a boat tour in Zakynthos?
• 2 Best Zakynthos boat tours at a glance
• 3.1 Half-day tours to North Zante
• 3.2 Half-day tours to South Zante 
• 3.3 Full-day full-island tours 
• 3.4 Small private boat
• 3.5 Small group tours 
• 3.6 Big boat tours 
• 4 Best Zakynthos boat tours
• 5 What to pack for your Zante boat trips
• 6 Where to stay for your boat trip Zakynthos
• 7 Do you need travel insurance to join the boat trips in Zante?

Enjoying the beautiful water of Zakynthos on a private boat trip

Should you do a boat tour in Zakynthos?

Absolutely! There are unique beaches to find and caves to discover, which are otherwise unreachable by land. You simply won’t be able to see some places without hopping on a boat and having an adventure.

I’d even go as far as to say that going on a boat tour is one of the best activities you can do in Zakynthos !

This article is all about the love of exploring by sea when you’re in Zante. Boat trips come in different shapes and sizes, and I’ve made sure to include some of the best ones in this post.  

Exploring hidden caves in Zante, Greece, during our boat tour

Best Zakynthos boat tours at a glance

Though there are a lot of different boat tours to choose from, in my opinion choosing from one of the private boat charters is the best way to truly appreciate the beauty of Zakynthos.

That’s because you’re in a small boat – and not completely crammed in with hundreds of other people (not fun) – plus you have more flexibility on the itinerary.

Porto Vromi: Cruise to Navagio, Turtle island & Keri Caves : This particular private cruise is a great example of how cool boat trips in Zante can be. It’s what I did with my group of friends and we loved it.

Leaving from Porto Vromi, this tour sees you exploring around the whole island, checking out Turtle Island, Keri Caves, and the famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach among other sights.

Along the way, you’ll also swing by hidden beaches and coves, which you can’t usually reach by land.

Click here to book your private boat tour around the island of Zakynthos , or check prices & availability in the calendar below!

Enjoying our private boat tour around Zakynthos, with a stop at Navagio Shipwreck Beach

Visiting Navagio Shipwreck Beach in Zante, Greece, on a boat tour

Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip :  This private boat trip has a focus on southern Zakynthos.

The main sights here are Turtle Island and Keri Caves, among others, but one of the coolest things is spotting loggerhead turtles that live in Laganas Bay.

You’ll have the use of snorkeling equipment to explore beneath the waves too!

Click here to book your half-day South Zakynthos boat tour, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Exploring hidden caves during our boat tour in Zakynthos, Greece

From Porto Vromi: Shipwreck Beach Private Boat Cruise : This time around you’ll be heading to northern Zakynthos on this private boat trip .

That means checking out Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves, to name a couple of spots, after leaving Porto Vromi.

Check out prices & availability for a half-day north Zante private boat tour here , or directly in the calendar below!

The beautiful crystal clear waters of Zakynthos, Greece

Different types of Zante boat tours

Not every boat trip Zakynthos has to offer is the same.

In fact, there are a whole lot of different boat tours that you can join in Zante – some of them may be more your thing, while others may not be what you’re looking for.

Generally speaking, they can be divided into the area of the island that they explore (with differing itineraries between the regions), and the types of boats that go out (i.e. private vs. big boat tours).

Itinerary-wise, they can be separated into the following:

Half-day tours to North Zante

These go to Shipwreck Beach , Blue Caves , and some beaches in the north of the island, which you can usually only reach by sea.

Shipwreck Beach is particularly cool – it’s here that you’ll be able to see the rusting hulk of MV Panagiotis, a ship that ran aground in 1980 while (allegedly!) smuggling goods to Greece on behalf of the Italian mafia.

Whether that’s true or not, who knows, but it’s a dramatic sight and you can get some cool shots of the shipwreck against the white cliffs and bright blue sea.

The Blue Caves are also beautiful. Situated near the village of Volimes, they’re named because of the turquoise water reflecting on the white arches, giving the rocks a cool, eerie blue glow.

Cruising along the coast and cliffs of Zakynthos, Greece

Half-day tours to South Zante 

Boat trips in South Zante head to Turtle Island, Keri Caves , and some lovely beaches in the area.

Turtle Island, known in Greek as Marathonisi (fennel island; named because fennel grew wild here), is located in Laganas Bay.

South Zante boat tours swing by here, stopping at the main sandy beach, and the cave-like shore on the opposite side.

Keri Caves are fun! Here among the various arches and sea caves the boat will stop at little beaches or shallow areas for you to swim and snorkel.

This is where I’d say a private tour is best, as you can be a bit more flexible with where you get to stop (or not).

Exploring the coastline and turquoise sea of Zakynthos, Greece, by boat

Full-day full-island tours 

These comprehensive tours take in the whole of Zante, visiting all of the above.

While they are good if you’re short on time, and just want to hit up all the hot spots in one day, it’s not so good if you suffer from seasickness.

If that’s you, and you really don’t want to be at sea all day (and you’re in Zante long enough) then you could do two half-day trips on two separate days.

Enjoying our boat trip around Zante Island in Greece

The other difference that you can choose between is the type of boat. Namely, these are:

Small private boat

Obviously, this is the more expensive option, but there are definite perks to this kind of Zakynthos boat tour. For a start, there’s more flexibility, as I’ve said before.

You can choose where you stop when you stop, and for how long.

It’s also great if you’re with your family or a group of friends, as you can hang out together, catch up, and chill, rather than getting overwhelmed by a boatload of people.

Exploring the Blue Caves of Zakynthos in Greece during our boat tour

Small group tours 

These aren’t private tours, as you don’t hire the whole boat out, but since it’s a small group tour, it’s a bit more intimate.

It’s a good idea for solo travellers since you’ll be able to get to know your fellow passengers as you tour around. I’d also say it’s decent for couples as it’s a fun way to get around away from all the “romantic getaway” stuff.

Big boat tours 

These Zante boat trips are exactly what you imagine. One big boat, crammed with loads of people, and very chaotic.

If you’re here with a friend or two, this might be a fun option, and it’s definitely the most budget-friendly option, but it’s a lot to deal with. Not great if you don’t like crowds.

One of the bigger boats for shared group tours in Zakynthos, Greece

The iconic Turtle Island, just off the coast of Zante

Best Zakynthos boat tours

Porto Vromi: Cruise to Navagio, Turtle island & Keri Caves

As I already said, this private Zante boat cruise around the whole island is great. It’s by far the best option for a group of friends who can afford to spend a bit more.

Basically, you get to see the whole island at your own pace, telling the captain where you want to go, skipping some stops if you don’t like them, and spending more time at the beaches you like. It’s perfect!

Check out prices & availability for your private full-day boat tour in Zante here , or in the calendar below!

Exploring the Blue Caves of Zakynthos, Greece, during our private boat tour

Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip

You and a maximum of 5 other people can embark on this private boat trip to southern Zakynthos . Being a tour of the south of the island, you’ll hit up Turtle Island and Keri Caves, among other places.

The captain is great on this tour – he’ll make sure to explain about the marine reserve, the turtles, and the other stops you make along the way.

The beautiful White Beach in Zakynthos, only accessible by boat

From Porto Vromi: Shipwreck Beach Private Boat Cruise

If you want to see the north of the island, i.e. the famous Shipwreck Beach and the majestic Blue Caves, this Zakynthos boat trip is a nice option.

It includes snorkel equipment in the price, so when you stop by the amazing glimmering coves along the way you’ll be able to explore the underwater world as well as the scenery above.

Porto Vromi: Navagio Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves by Boat

Head to northern Zakynthos on a bigger boat as part of a shared tour. Leaving Porto Vromi, you’ll head to Shipwreck Beach to check out the remains of the MV Panagiotis.

This tour then includes 3 swimming stops, and the beach options on this particular Zante boat tour include the hidden beach of Sfogio and the stunning Porto Steniti beach.

It’s a pretty similar itinerary to the north Zakynthos private boat tour, with the difference that it will be in one of the bigger 50-passenger boats.

Click here to book your North Zante big boat tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Exploring Keri Caves and Turtle Island during our private boat tour around Zakynthos Island

Zakynthos: Marathonisi and Cameo Islands & Keri Caves Tour

This shared group tour is a pretty good option. You’ll get to go to Turtle Island and Keri Cave, among other classic locations. Besides the boat trip, this tour will also take you to do a tasting of local products like olive oil!

It’s done with a glass-bottomed boat, which some people like, as it gives you the opportunity to see the seabed, marine life and the famous caretta caretta turtles.

Personally I don’t love it, as the glass bottom tends to get quite dirty, and it’s common for these tours to harass the sea turtles by cruising directly above them.

Click here to book your glass bottom boat trip to Turtle Island & Keri Caves in Zante ! Or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Exploring the beautiful sea caves of Zante, Greece

Zakynthos Island: Navagio Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves Tour

I also recommend checking out a combination tour like this one.

The good thing about this particular Zante boat trip is that that, as well as travelling by sea on a 3-hour boat tour, you’ll also do some land travel by minibus.

That means you’ll be able to see the Navagio Beach from the clifftop viewpoint.

This is particularly good for those who don’t have long in Zakynthos, as it’s a pretty comprehensive tour and you see quite a lot in one day. On the other hand, expect big groups, a certain amount of chaos and a tight schedule!

Check out prices & availability for your boat & bus tour in Zakynthos here , or check it out directly in the calendar below!

Navagio Shipwreck Beach in Zante, Greece

Admiring Navagio Shipwreck Beach from the sea

Private Customizable Zakynthos Tour

If you want everything to be completely up to you, then take note of this combination boat trip .

Options include visiting a Venetian castle, Shipwreck Beach, charming villages, and a whole lot of beaches, including the intriguing Xigia Sulfur Beaches.

It’s a private tour that’s totally customisable and includes both a minibus and a boat. It’s not exactly cheap, but if it’s for a special occasion and you share the cost between a group of you, it works out pretty reasonable.

Click here to book your private boat trip in Zakynthos, Greece!

Enjoying our private boat trip around Zakynthos, Greece

What to pack for your Zante boat trips

You don’t really need much besides your usual beach essentials to go on a boat trip in Zante, but I listed below a few essentials anyway, just to make sure you don’t forget.

Power bank – you don’t want your phone to run out of battery while you’re taking photos of the beautiful turquoise water of Zante!

Waterproof phone pouch – Boats usually have dry area, but it’s always a good idea to put your phone in a waterproof pouch, so that you can have it on your for photos, without risking it getting wet!

Fast-drying towel – These towels are great for boat trips since they take up little space and dry quickly.

Stainless steel water bottle – save money and reduce plastic consumption by bringing your own water bottle and refilling it.

Sunscreen – You’ll be out on the water and under the sun all day, you don’t want to ruin your trip by getting sunburnt.

Exploring Pelagaki Beach in Zante, Greece

Where to stay for your boat trip Zakynthos

Where you stay in Zante won’t really have much of an influence on your boat trip, as there are boat trips setting off from all the major ports around the island. Plus, many boat tours include also hotel transfers.

If you want to avoid having to travel around the island before embarking on your boat trip, you can stay in one of the major port towns like Laganas, Zakynthos Town or Keri.

Here are some great places too tay in Zakynthos for every budget.

Budget: Gerovasis Apartments with Sea View – This is where we stayed in Keri for five nights. This apartment spacious, clean, has epic views and for the amount of people it sleeps, it’s fairly cheap.

Click here to book your stay at Gerovasis Apartments with Sea View!

Mid-range: Joya Luxury Villas – Even though there is Luxury in the name, this beautiful villa is actually pretty affordable, while still offering a luxury service. It sleeps up to 10 people, has a private pool, and is perfectly positioned to explore the North East coast of Zante. We stayed here for the weekend and loved it.

Click here to book your stay at Joya Luxury Villas in Zante!

Luxury: Lesante Cape Resort & Villas – We had lunch here and fell in love with the venue. This 5-star hotel has beautiful little villas with private pools, amazing service, stunning views and is in a great position. Perfect to spoil yourself!

Click here to see prices & availability at Lesante Cape Resort & Villas!

The beautiful pool and sea view at Lesante Cape Resort & Villas in Zante, Greece

Do you need travel insurance to join the boat trips in Zante?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Greece travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying the view over the iconic Navagio Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, Greece

Final thoughts on the best Zakynthos boat trips

There you have it, the ultimate guide about boat trips in Zakynthos, Greece! Have you been on a Zante boat tour? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

It might not be as iconic as Santorini with its caldera boat tours , but I still loved visiting Zante, and especially discovering the island by boat.

Zakynthos may be a small island, but it’s blessed with beautiful scenery, incredibly clear blue water, white sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs. Seeing this unique landscape from the sea is a truly unique experience.

It might sound cliché and touristy, but doing a boat trip in Zante really is one of the best things to do on the island. Regardless of what type of boat or tour you choose!

Personally I loved doing a full-day full-island private tour, but I understand everyone has different priorities and budgets.

I hope you found my Zante boat trips guide useful, and that it will help you choose the perfect boat tour for your style! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.

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42 Fun Things to Do in Zakynthos, Greece

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Known as the “Flower of the Levant” and the 3rd largest Ionian island in Greece, Zakynthos is an island with a coastline consisting of limestone cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and natural blue caves with tons of experiences to enjoy it all!

Blessed with crystal blue waters, and outstanding beaches for every type of traveler, explore the more than 30 incredible beaches, starting with the most famous of all Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach) surrounded by dramatic cliffs, powder white sand beaches, and turquoise waters.

Step inside Agios Dionysios church, named after the patron saint of the island, take a stroll through the quaint Solomos Square, and end the day soaking up the last sunrays at the scenic Skinari Lighthouse.

Visit the Keri Caves to do a bit of turtle spotting, or take a scenic tour of the Blue Caves on a glass-bottom boat to truly take in the beauty from all angles!

Ready for The Greek adventure? Let’s check out more fun things to do in Zakynthos !

1 – Learn about the island’s patron saint at the Church of Agios Dionysios

Step inside the largest church on the island, the Church of Agios Dionysios, known to be the patron saint of the island and main protector of the island.

It is thought to be a miraculous church after surviving the devastating earthquake in 1953, and today it’s open for visitors to see the intricate details. Learn about the story behind the saint, his upbringing, and why he’s considered to be the Saint of Forgiveness.

If you’re on the island in December, on the 17th the island celebrates the patron saint at the church and throughout the island!

2 – Spend the afternoon at Port of Zakynthos

The Port of Zakynthos is where all the ferries and ships disembark visitors to the island, meaning that this area is typically buzzing with people, restaurants, and cafes to check out.

Flooding the area with scenes of white homes and buildings, the port is a great place to admire the sunset at one of the many cafes. As you look to the horizon, spot a few other ferries and little fishing boats docked at the port by the local fishermen.

After the sunset, make a round through the town and its gardens or the port’s promenade.

3 – Visit the secluded Blue Caves

The Blue Caves are by far one of the most beautiful sights to see in Zakynthos, only accessible via boat, near the village of Volimes, on the northern side of the island.

Hop aboard a tour to uncover the beauty of the secluded caves, only available via boat. Many boat tours from Zakynthos offer a speed boat with a glass bottom, getting to swim in the scenic Xigia beach, and of course, getting a photo taken at the Makris Gialos beach!

Admire the almost fluorescent blue waters, and enjoy this secret side of the island!

• Blue Caves tours from Zakynthos

Read more; Best Boat Tours in Zakynthos – All you Need to Know

4 – Plan a day trip to Shipwreck Beach

Shipwreck Beach is a stunning beach located on the northwestern side of the island and is famously referred to as Smugglers Beach for its interesting back story and Navagio Beach formally.

The story goes that the ship “Panagiotis” was being chased by authorities for possibly smuggling alcohol into the island, and the ship was later found on the shores of the island, which is visible.

Enjoy the famous beach with a walk in between the towering stone cliffs, the golden sand beach, and admire the stunning color of the water. Day trips start at $55 USD.

• Navagio Shipwreck Beach tours

5 – Get the best viewpoint of Shipwreck Beach

On a mission for the perfect shot of Shipwreck Beach? Iconically one of the most photographed sites on the island, it’s relatively easy and free to get close to this impressive viewpoint!

You can drive 48 minutes to the town of Elatia, and park and enter the viewpoint for free! Once you park, you can follow the signs and take a little walk through the stairs to make it to the prized spot.

Pro tip: try to visit during sunset, as that is when the glow of the sun truly makes the scene look heavenly!

6 – Do some beautiful turtle watching

Embark on a glass-bottom boat as you venture to the sea to do some turtle watching! Visit a few of the Keri caves, Mizithres rocks, and even sail through the arches.

On your turtle-watching tour from Zakynthos, you’ll sail around the National Marine Park, getting close to the natural habitats of the Loggerhead turtles and their nests. From there you’ll also be able to see up close the beautiful Cameo Islet , and more!

Make sure to pack your swimsuit, as there will be plenty of swimming opportunities to cool off at the most stunning beaches!

• turtle watching in Zakynthos

7 – Hang with the locals at Solomos Square

Check out what’s happening at Solomos Square, a meeting place for locals to spend time with friends and family.

The Solomos Square is a beautiful place for a stroll and to take a close look at the statues on the side of some of the most important figures from the island, as well as the island’s most important cultural centers around.

The square is fairly new, as it was created during an extension plan of the island after the 1953 earthquake. The square that you see was once all water, making it especially amazing!

8 – Get into the creative flow in a ceramic-making class

Get your hands dirty to create something special to take home! Book a ceramic-making class in Zakynthos, and specifically learn the basics of pottery and Greek pottery techniques.

Learn from your pottery instructor the basics, and get inspired to create a turtle or a bowl based on your experiences on the island!

The studio is surrounded by beautiful Greek olive groves and vineyards, which add a dose of inspiration when you think up the design for your piece. After the class, you’ll be able to say you have a one-of-a-kind gift made especially in Greece!

• ceramic making in Zakynthos

9 – Get epic views of the sea at Skinari Lighthouse

Get uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea when you visit the Skinari Lighthouse, located at the northern point of the island, 50 minutes from Zakynthos town.

Approach the active lighthouse at sunset, and from your vantage point, glance at the silhouette of windmills, and boats in the distance as well as beaches and the sparkling sea.

Later walk toward Akra Skinari, another beautiful viewpoint with a few ruins and stairs down to the water, just 7 minutes from Skinari Lighthouse to truly end the day with a bang.

There is free parking at the lighthouse.

10 – Escape to Marathonisi on a day trip

Brace for a day trip for the books when you visit the islet of Marathonisi, and a few other breathtaking sights on your way there.

Before arriving at Marathonisi, on a day tour from Zakynthos, you’ll also stop by Kalamaki Beach and catch glimpses of local turtles. Then you’ll hop on a glass-bottom boat, where you’ll admire the stone arches and limestone cliffs, and even go into one of the caves!

On your way back you’ll stop by Cameo Island and cross the bridge to completely secluded beaches and a few local olive oil producers.

• Marathonisi tours from Zakynthos

11 – Be a guest at the National Marine Park

Discover the beautiful marine life and learn about the conservation efforts to sustain the local ecology and the health of the local wildlife.

Book a special trip to the marine park and take advantage of the different types of tours available. Explore the underwater routes in a snorkeling tour, go for some diving, or even simply enjoy walking through the scenic walking trails around the park.

From exotic bird watching, to Loggerhead turtle spotting, and local flora and vegetation, the National Marine Park deserves a spot on your list of things to do Zakynthos!

12 – View original Orthodox paintings inside the Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa

Visit the oldest church on the island, Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa, a church that predates the 15th century, with remnants of royalty that no longer exist today.

Known as “Skopos” the church offers incredible views of the sea, the local vegetation, and the hills dotted with villages in the distance. Though the road to get to the monastery is a bit bumpy, the walk is surely worth it!

Inside, you’ll be enchanted by the views of all the beautiful paintings depicting Greek Orthodox imagery of saints.

The monastery is 26 minutes away from Zakynthos town.

13 – See all sorts of sea animals on a snorkeling venture

How about diving into the true blue waters of the Ionian Sea, close to the Keri caves?

Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, a snorkeling experience is sure to offer incredible memories of the world beneath the water with sights of starfish, anemones, and many different types of fish.

The half-day experience will include diving in two different diving sites and all the necessary equipment for the experience. Expertise level doesn’t matter, as you’ll have the guidance of your instructor nearby.

Pro tip: Opt for a sea scooter snorkeling adventure and try something new!

• snorkeling tours in Zakynthos

14 – Take a history lesson inside the Zakynthos Museum

Wander the 3 levels of the Zakynthos Museum, touring the historical past of the island, from the Classical and Byzantine eras, archaeological findings, beautiful paintings from the 15th-16th centuries, and more.

Located in the center of Zakynthos town, the museum is very easy to get to. Some exhibits to see inside are the ones dedicated to sharing a capture of what life was like on the island before the earthquake to truly get a sense of the growth of the island.

Furthermore, explore the contemporary art and cultural exhibits, also shedding light on local life.

15 – See the animals up close at Askos Stone Park

Visit a center that has a little bit of everything – an animal sanctuary, agricultural research, archaeological site, and a zoo. Askos Stone Park is a wonderful plan to add to your list of activities to do in Zakynthos with small children.

Bring your kids to play and observe the animals like the peacocks, deer (specifically the Platonia deer), ponies, cows, and many more animals, as you learn about the 600-year-old stones used to build the walls, stables, and much more.

Visit during feeding time, and you’ll even get to feed the animals yourself!

16 – Book a fun day trip to the Keri Caves

Explore one of the most popular natural sights on the island – the Keri Caves!

Book a day trip from Zakynthos to the Keri Caves, stop by to seek out some tortoises at Turtle Island or Marathonisi Island , and then head to the Keri Caves.

The caves carved into the cliffs are known for their beautiful white rocky facade and the sparkling emerald-green waters within. You’ll get to enter the caves and see them from the inside! Afterward, you’ll be able to hop off the boat for a swim!

Tours start at 61 USD.

• Keri Caves tours

17 – Practice your aim by playing some mini golf

Have some putt-putt time on the green when you check out the mini golf courses available on the island!

Fantasy Mini Golf is a 4-acre mini golf course with beautifully manicured greens with rivers, gardens, tropical trees, waterfalls, and even a mini erupting volcano! The courses are available for all skill levels, and all ages.

World Tour Mini Golf is another great mini golf option, this time offering statue replicas of some of the most important landmarks all across the world! Go from golfing on the Golden Gate Bridge to Christ the Redeemer and the Colosseum.

18 – Dip into the Anafonitria Monastery

Enter the 15th-century Anafonitria Monastery, most famous for being the space where the patron saint of the island became a monk, and spend the rest of his days there.

Named after what is known as the “Virgin Holder of the Newborn” the monastery today has a tall belfry and is surrounded by a defensive wall that was built later on.

When you step inside the church you’ll find impressive frescoes and other religious relics that are at least 5 centuries old!

The monastery is 42 minus away from Zakynthos town and has free parking.

19 – Get a glimpse of the magnificent Argássi Bridge

Sitting on the shores of the town of Argassi is the ruin of the Argássi Bridge dating to 1885.

The bridge used to be part of the main road but today most of it sits in the middle of the water, yet close enough to see from the harbor. Over time the bridge began to deteriorate due to the saltwater erosion and strong winds.

The remnants of the bridge stand proudly as a symbol of the town, and what it provided at the beginning of the 19th century.

The bridge is 11 minutes from Zakynthos town.

20 – See the gold details inside the Church Agios Nikolaos of Molos

Check out the oldest Venetian building located on Solomos Square, and one of the few that survived the devastating 1953 earthquake, the Church of Agios Nikolaos of Molos.

Wander inside and check out the simple yet beautiful and historic church from its original Venetian charm to its stone, single-aisled basilica.  Admire the gold iconography and imagery of Greek Orthodox saints, and watch as people go in to leave a lit candle.

If you visit the island during Holy Week, you’ll see that the procession of Holy Friday starts at this church.

21 – Go off-roading on a Jeep tour

See the most secluded sights throughout the island, from the naturally rugged trails to the least-touched areas of the island.

When you book a jeep tour in Zakynthos, you’ll be able to cruise through the quiet villages, stop by to take in the ocean, and on your way, even stop by a local family farm!

Some tours may include a boat trip to the Blue Caves plus a swim session if you’re up for it, and a stop at a local restaurant to refuel in the middle of the adventure!

Jeep tours start at $54 USD.

• jeep tours in Zakynthos

22 – Try your speed and luck at an escape room

Make it out of an exciting escape room under record time when you book a session at Trap Escape Rooms.

Only 14 minutes away from Zakynthos town, Trap Escape Room offers numerous themed escape rooms, all of which are located in the basement. Test your skills as you make it under 60 minutes, figuring out puzzles and finding solutions with your friends.

Suitable for families as well, children as young as 5 can participate with their parents! So bring your A-game, and be prepared to think in ways you haven’t yet before!

23 – Check out the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon

Near Navagio Bay is the Monastery of Agio Georgios Krimnon, dating back to 1553 that was the home of many Greek Orthodox figures including the monk Pahomios Roussanos.

Though most of the monastery has been destroyed throughout time, it was restored including the watch tower in the middle to keep away looters who kept destroying the space.

Today, you can visit the monastery and take in the mix of a few original pieces left along with the restored items mostly on the outside, as there are two monks that currently reside there.

24 – Be part of the cause at Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue

Want to help conserve the home and survival rate of the local Loggerhead turtles?

The tourism population has been growing rapidly, and with that, so have the local pollution and beach crowds. As a result, the increase in accommodations for tourism has been growing and the well-being of the local ecology has started to diminish.

Volunteer some of your time at the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue , and participate in everyday tasks from assisting with beach cleanup to getting hands-on time with the turtles, as well as offer up any skills you may have.

25 – Check out the fossils at Helmi’s Natural History Museum

Check out the only natural museum on the island when you visit Helmi’s Natural History Museum , located in the town of Agia Marina, 20 minutes away from Zakynthos town.

Surrounded by mountainous beauty, the museum features multiple exhibits detailing the local flora and fauna, from land to sea specific to the island. Learn more about the Loggerhead turtles, as well as the numerous birds that call the nature of the island home.

In addition, you’ll also see a selection of fossils and mineral rocks found on the island, allowing a deeper look into the island’s geology.

26 – Run the ancient tracks at Ancient Olympia

Enjoy a day trip to the historical site of Ancient Olympia, only a 2-hour ferry ride from Zakynthos! Walk the same grounds that many of the first Olympians walked, as you learn about the origins of the famous Olympics.

Your archaeology guide will give you a tour of the ruin, and view specific areas within the site, from the running track to the gym, and the dressing rooms.

In the end, get a chance to run through the original track and see how you would have done if you ran it in the 8th century BC.

• Ancient Olympia tours from Zakynthos

27 – Pet baby animals at The Little Farm

See little animals living their best farm life at The Little Farm, from baby goats to pigs, sheep, and chicks, and watch as they get fed throughout the day while getting a chance to feed them yourself!

This is a great place to bring your kids, and even enjoy some arts and crafts right there on the farm, and a celebratory ice cream treat at the end. Admire the beautiful surroundings from dozens of flowers to olive groves and mountains off in the distance.

The Little Farm is 15 minutes away from Zakynthos town.

28 – Enjoy the sights under the sea with some scuba diving

Uncover the sea world beneath on a riveting scuba diving experience whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner!

Take up a scuba diving lesson with the guidance of a professional, and learn how to get comfortable in the water and go deeper into the sea. After your first few practices, you’ll be ready to dive deeper and catch sights of colorful fish, starfish, and maybe even a turtle or two.

Scuba diving sessions start at $63 USD and depart from either Laganas Beach or Tsilivi. The whole experience is 3 hours including a training session.

• scuba diving in Zakynthos

29 – Soak up the sea views from Bóchali Venetian Castle

Set foot on the towering Bóchali Venetian Castle, dating back to 1646 AD, and built by the Venetians with sprawling views of Zakynthos town and the sea from above.

Perched on the hill of Bohali, it’s said that the castle was built upon the ruins of the island’s ancient acropolis. Despite its destructions and reconstructions throughout time, the castle is mostly in ruins today.

Nonetheless, it’s a great place to bring a blanket and maybe a snack to enjoy the serenity and views. Visit in the early morning or late evening. Entry is free.

30 – Taste 15 different wine varieties at Callinico Winery Museum

Wine enthusiasts, check out Callinico Winery Musem , a winery hosted by a local family where you’ll get the chance to see the wine-making process on the island, as well as sample a few wines crafted right in-house.

Enjoy a tour through the vineyard, and the cellar, learning about the aging process of wine, as well as the family winery story. You’ll even get to see a few pieces of equipment used before modern-day machines to make wine!

Sample up to 15 different wines, so you know which one to purchase and bring home with you!

31 – Have some fun kart racing

Hit the tracks and let loose while you go karting in Zakynthos!

Formula Zante Go Karting offers a fun track that measures 610 meters long, with curves turns, and more! With tracks and speeds for all skill levels, everyone is welcome no matter their age. Once you’re done, hit the ice cream and crepe stand on site for a post-karting treat!

Lagana GO KARTS is another great place to hit the tracks! Get ready to hit the circuits and practice your speed as you zip through, beating out your previous karting times!

32 – Book your tour to Kefalonia Island

Plan a day trip to the beautiful Kefalonia Island located north of Zakynthos, and only a 1-hour ferry ride.

Unlock all the natural beauty and adventure to be had on Kefalonia Island, from its pure beaches, deep caves, towering mountains, and exotic wildlife!

On your Kefalonia Island tour from Zakynthos, you’ll also explore the monastery of the patron saint Kefalonia, as well as have free time in the island’s capital city.

Included in your tour is the expert tour guide, the roundtrip ferry ride, and even pick up and drop off from your hotel.

• Kefalonia Island tours from Zakynthos

33 – Bring the kids to Caretta Fun Park Center

Looking for fun things to do in Zakynthos for children? Add this one to your list! Caretta Fun Park Center is a child’s dream with tons of fun from go-karts, trampolines, slides, water games, bouncy castles, and more!

Typically open starting at 6:00 PM all the way to midnight, this fun park is the perfect evening plan to enjoy with the kids, located only 13 minutes away from Zakynthos town.

After all the play, the kids can enjoy all sorts of snacks and food, from popcorn to pizza, drinks, and more!

34 – Off-road on a buggy tour

Hit the dirt roads with a dose of thrill when you book an exciting buggy tour! Explore the rugged terrain and sides of the island, while passing charming little towns, and getting epic views of the sea and the island’s local wildlife.

While on your journey, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take breaks to admire nature, as well as snap a few photos! In the middle of the experience, you’ll also stop by for lunch in one of the villages for an authentic meal!

Be sure to pack SPF, your favorite sunglasses, and a camera!

• buggy tours in Zakynthos

35 – Catch your next meal with a round of fishing

This is definitely a two-for-one excursion: great views and the potential for an impressive catch!

Join expert locals on an epic journey into the open Mediterranean, where you’ll learn all about the different species that call the sea home.

Then see if you can catch a few of them to get the ultimate souvenir!

• fishing tours in Zakynthos

36 – Get on the scenic train at Trainaki

Hop aboard the tourist train at Trainaki, and venture off into some of the island’s most beautiful small villages, as you make pit stops at the museum and the local restaurant.

With each stop offering something local, from folk music and dance to lovely and fresh food scents in the air, your tour guide will continuously keep you entertained with unique facts, legends, and history surrounding all that you’re seeing.

While stopping at some of the restaurants, you’ll get to sample some sips of house-made wine, with a few food helpings!

37 – Soak up the sun rays at the best beaches

Zakynthos has over 20 incredible beaches, but to get your dreams of relaxing at the beach started, check out one of the most famous ones, Laganas Beach.

Only 16 minutes away from Zakynthos town, Laganas Beach offers family-friendly vibes and tons of water sports rentals. Some boat tours depart from here too!

Porto Roma Beach is the perfect little beach for those looking for a little nature view from the crystal blue waters. Argassi Beach is only 10 minutes away from Zakynthos town and offers beach amenities like beachside restaurants, sun beds, umbrellas, and tons of water sports fun.

38 – Cook and taste authentic Greek food in a cooking class

Sharpen your cooking skills with a fun cooking class! Spend half a day with a local, as they take you under their wing for a memorable lunch where you’ll get to make your own dish and share with the rest of the group!

In your class, you’ll get to choose between making Greek classics like spinach and feta pie, souvlaki, spanakopita, or moussaka, while being in the home and kitchen of the locals, surrounded by the island’s scenery.

In the end, you’ll all enjoy each other’s company in the garden for lunch, taste-testing all the goodness.

• cooking classes in Zakynthos

39 – Learn about and taste the island’s wine on a wine tour

With a growing wine region specializing in the production of Verdea wine aged in oak, a wine tour is a perfect activity to add to your list of fun experiences to have in Zakynthos!

Visit some of the best wineries on the island, with a few pit stops to catch the stunning sunset on the Ionian Sea. Enjoy samples of wine produced by the family winery, and taste a few food samples that go best with this specific type of wine.

Afterward, you’ll end up having a meal at a local Greek taverna, with live music!

• wine tours in Zakynthos

40 – Enjoy the flavors of the island at the best restaurants

Explore the wide range of fresh and flavorful dishes from the island at Lentika restaurant! Along with your meal and island-produced wine, you’ll also enjoy the stunning sea and garden views from your table.

Enjoy a light and healthy meal inspired by the Mediterranean at Avli restaurant. A quaint little restaurant located in Zakynthos town, with a beautiful garden terrace to enjoy your meal in.

Also in Zakynthos town is Prosilio restaurant! Offering lush garden seating or modern interiors, take a look at the grand seafood variety, featuring the catch of the day from the local fishmongers.

41 – Drink up at the best bars

Feel the fresh sea breeze and sweeping views of Zakynthos town when you visit Rosto Roof Garden rooftop bar, enjoy the house cocktail, and mingle with travelers and locals alike.

Movida is an excellent bar choice offering bohemian elegance. With views of the hills and sea in the distance, relax on the comfortable chairs as the sun starts to set romantically upon the water.

Base Cafe & Rooftop Bar sits on top of the picturesque Zakynthos town and offers the perfect cup of coffee during the day, and the perfect cocktail and beats at night.

42 – Party it up at the best clubs

Keep the good spirits up at Zero’s Club , with over 30 years of non-stop parties all summer long. The club hosts multiple international DJs, so rest assured the vibes will be immaculate.

Party in the open and under the string lights when you check out Barrage Club! Playing mostly dance and house music, Barrage Club claims to be the best club on the island – dare to see for yourself?

Looking for a beach club to party at? Check out Pure Zante , which hosts 2 of the biggest spectacles on the island from Full Moon parties to Champagne Sprays and much more!

How to get to Zakynthos?

When flying into Zakynthos Island, you’ll be landing at Zakynthos International Airport Dionysios Solomos (ZTH).

From the airport to your hotel, we recommend pre-booking an airport transfer, as the island has a bus shuttle but depending on where your hotel is, it may be tricky to rely on it. Simply pre-arrange your shuttle, and your driver will await you on arrival!

• airport transfers in Zakynthos

Where to stay in Zakynthos?

Relish the amazing sea views from the rooms at Cavo Orient Beach Hotel & Suites , offering modern amenities and sleek decor, as well as an incredible seafood buffet on site. Enjoy a lay on a comfortable chair with views of the ocean, especially at sundown.

Zante Calinica Hotel is another bright and beautiful hotel, known for its incredible hospitality, outdoor pools, and terrace or balcony in some of the rooms. The hotel offers fresh Mediterranean breakfast daily, perfect to enjoy before your day’s adventures!

Belussi Beach Hotel & Suites is another spectacular hotel option, 20 minutes away from Zakynthos Town. Equipped with air conditioning, and some rooms with kitchenettes and balcony views of the Ionian Sea, the hotel also has a restaurant featuring the island’s fresh cuisine.

Stay at the Balcony Hotel , a property located on a cliff that overlooks the never-ending sea for those looking for a bit of quiet.

• best hotels in Zakynthos

Where to go next?

After exploring all of Zakynthos, explore what you can get up to at the other Ionian Islands, specifically the island of Corfu .

Corfu is one of the northernmost Ionian islands with plenty of incredible sights and activities to enjoy. Get lost in the cute and charming Old Town, viewing the grand Palace of St. Michael, or for extra opulence, check out the Achilleion Palace, named after the Greek God Achilles.

You can’t leave Corfu without some outdoor fun, and in this case, snorkeling the Blue Lagoon is the activity for you, or heading down for some beach time at Porto Timoni Beach.

If Island hopping is what you’re looking to do while in Greece, make sure to check out our list of the best Greek Islands to visit !

Athens also has tons of activities and sights to see, from the grand Parthenon overlooking the city to exploring the picture-perfect streets of Plaka. Enjoy a heavenly food tour to spot the best gyros, and of course, visit all the nearby temples and ancient Agoras.

If you are looking for more destinations, check out our list of the best places to visit in Greece .

Final thoughts

From turtle sanctuaries to fluorescent blue waters, incredible nightlife, and quiet beaches, Zakynthos Island is one of those islands in Greece you’ll wish you would have known about sooner. An island with both excitement and leisure.

What surprised you the most from our list of the most fun things to do in Zakynthos? Let us know!

Happy travels!

The Ultimate Travel Guide For Zakynthos, Greece

• Last Updated On: September 7, 2023

Zakynthos, also known as Zante Island by locals, is an island in the Ionian sea known for its mesmerizing landscapes and stunning beaches. Couple that with fantastic accommodation options and soul warming Greek food everywhere, you have all you need for an amazing Greek getaway.

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I spent four nights in Zakynthos as part of a greater Greece trip. There are direct flights from my home in Frankfurt which makes it very easy to visit. Previous to visiting the island, I only really knew it because of the Shipwreck Beach (more on that soon) which is probably the same for every other newcomer. I was also told my friends that Zakynthos is the big British party island. I know how these turn out and wasn’t super excited because I was expecting the drunken swarms and I’m officially too old for that I’ve decided.

However, visiting during the times of Coronavirus proved anything but. Of course this is a one of situation during a worldwide pandemic, but visiting in mid July of 2020 meant it was pretty much dead. It was of course extremely disheartening to see the livelihoods of the locals who depend on tourism severely strained, but it was quite amazing to see the island without the huge crowds that would typically accompany Greek islands in the summer.

In addition, make sure to read my Ionian islands travel itinerary if you want to see how I structured my trip to see these beautiful islands.

Where is Zakynthos?

Zakynthos is the most southern island in the Ionian sea. It’s located on the north western corner of Greece with the main islands being Corfu , Lefkada , Kefalonia , and Zakynthos. Corfu actually is right on the Greece-Albania border whereas Zakynthos is quite far south.

It’s easy to do a trip to all the islands mentioned by ferry which offer regular connections between the islands. I took the ferry from Zakynthos to Kefalonia to continue my Ionian adventure.

The island at roughly 40km long and 20km wide is one of the larger islands in Greece. While of course nowhere near as big as Crete , it is much bigger than the islands in the Cyclades.

Getting around Zakynthos

Zakynthos, like most Greek islands is a pretty sparsely populated island. With only 40,000 full time citizens, there’s not much of a public transportation system to speak of. In fact, I don’t remember seeing any buses driving between towns.

If you are planning to stay in a resort with the all inclusive style options, then you won’t need much more than a taxi from the airport. You can book day trips and tours to visit the famous sights and you’ll be sorted.

However, if you want to explore more of the island at your own pace, renting a car, scooter, or quadbike is a must. I rented a car for almost 2 weeks that I took to explore Zakynthos and Kefalonia. This is an absolute must in these islands if you want to do anything. From our airbnb on the beach (which was amazing), we had to drive at last 5 minutes to the town.

Driving on Zakynthos was largely fine. There’s not much traffic to speak of except in the main town. The roads are not in the best shape but it’s not a dire situation. However, be careful which roads you choose because Google Maps often told me to go down roads which ended up being nothing but dirt roads! There are a lot of these so be very mindful which paths you choose!

Shipwreck Beach – Navaggio Beach

If you don’t know anything about Zakynthos, you probably have still heard of the Shipwreck Beach. If you’ve never heard of Shipwreck Beach, it’s likely you’ve seen the pictures in your Insta feeds, blogs, magazines, postcards, or literally anywhere else.

Outside of the Acropolis in Athens, the blue domes of Santorini , the Shipwreck beach may just be the most iconic photo of Greece. Yes, it’s located on Zakynthos and no trip to this island is complete without visiting this absolutely beautiful place.

It’s one of the magical and impossibly beautiful places that look even more amazing in person if that’s even possible. The pictures already induce the most amount of wanderlust possible, but yes it gets even better!

History of Shipwreck Beach

Reading about the history of the beach is absolutely fascinating. The beach itself is of course spectacular in beauty but the huge rusting boat in the middle of the beach adds that dramatic factor that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s perhaps the most famous shipwreck in the world.

How this ship got there is quite the story. In 1980, the Merchant ship named “Panagiotis” was smuggling cigarettes from Albania to Italy. They were caught by Greek Authorities and chased down to this beach in Zakynthos before crashing and forming the beach we all know and love today. I wonder what prompted the authorities to leave the ship on the beach. Perhaps it was just too much of a mess to move or did someone have the foresight to realize what a beautiful site it would form in the future?

Regardless, a few illicit cigarettes has led to one of Greece’s most lucrative tourist attractions so it worked out in the end.

Viewpoint of Shipwreck Beach

The viewpoint of Shipwreck beach where all the iconic photos are taken is easily reached by car. It’s in the northwest of the island and is roughly 45 minutes driving from Zante Town.

It’s an absolute must like I’ve already said. From the parking lot, just follow the trail to the cliff edge where you will be afforded the most beautiful views of the beach! During normal times, this place is very packed but not the case when I visited!

About 10 minutes from the parking lot, you will see a Greek Flag which is a great area to take photos. If you walk past the Greek flag, there will be less people and a great place to get photos without the crowds.

It’s a VERY steep drop here and there have been plenty of people that have died chasing that elusive Instagram photo. The rocks here regularly break off so don’t mess around. I tried getting one of those legs hanging off the cliff type of photos which more than ramped up my adrenaline!

The best time to come here is in the late morning and early afternoon . This is because in the early morning, the sun hasn’t fully risen over the beach yet and you won’t get the same stunning water color until it is fully covered by the sun. However, there really is no bad time to visit; it is stunning at all times.

Visiting the Navaggio Beach itself

To visit the Shipwreck beach, you will need to go by boat. There is  no way of getting there by land. I heard some people actually tried climbing down from the viewpoint at the very top which after being there in person, is a big WTF? They of course died.

There’s zero way of walking down to this beach because it’s literally a vertical sheer drop. So you heard it here first, don’t try this!

To visit the island you have to go by boat. You can either:

• Join a group tour that visits the beach and blue caves
• Rent a private boat and go there by yourself.

The first option is roughly €30-€35 per person. During normal times, they crammed 100 people into these boats and now about half capacity during Coronavirus times. I saw one of these boats leaving the beach as I was arriving to the beach. I can safely say that I am very happy I did not book one of these.

I rented a boat for the day with a captain and we went to this beach as well as a bunch of other equally beautiful and deserted beaches. I’d  highly recommend  getting your own boat. It’s so much more relaxing. I paid roughly €50 per hour which included the captain and guide. If all you care about is just going to the Navaggio Beach, then simply rent a boat from the Porto Vromi beach which is 15-20 minutes from the shipwreck. If you’re more than 2 people, it’s a no brainer to do this because it will be cheaper and an infinitely better experience!

What to do in Zakynthos?

Zakynthos is so much more than just the Shipwreck beach. Although that is for sure a must do activity, you will not be bored afterwards that is for sure!

After the Shipwreck beach, the Blue caves are probably the next most popular activity. Located in the very northern tip of the island, these caves are some of the more impressive sea caves I’ve seen. The iconic shot here is the double arch which is so picturesque.

As with the shipwreck beach, you can only really visit these caves if you’re on a boat. Whether that’s part of a tour or your own boat, you can’t access it by land. Most tours will combine the shipwreck beach and blue caves.

St. Nicolas Church

There are several Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas) churches on Zakynthos, this one is found on the south east corner of the island just next to St. Nicholas Beach.

It’s a delightful little whitewashed building with red doors and gates. Unfortunately you can’t get in to the church itself but it’s still a nice place to visit as the area offers spectacular views of the Ionian sea and the beach below.

There’s not a great deal to see or do at the church itself but there is a pleasant beach next to it if you fancy a dip in the ocean or a drink. Otherwise, take some nice photos here which are definitely Instagram worthy.

Xigia Sulfur Beach

Zakynthos has no shortage of beaches for you to enjoy. One of the most unique beaches in the Xigia Sulfur Beach. It’s located in the northeast of the island and is actually home to a large sulfur deposit in the water.

It’s very noticeable with the slightly milky turquoise water that still looks stunning from afar. It’s like a very mini Mediterranean of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. You can smell the sulfur from afar as well.

However, it gets very packed during the day so I’d recommend visiting this in the morning hours to avoid the crowds. However, it’s most beautiful and dramatic in color from the afternoon hours.

Plakaki Beach

Another must visit sight in Zakynthos is definitely Plakaki Rocks. It’s another magnificent viewpoint coupled with white rocks that lead into beautiful emerald colored waters.

Upon arriving, you can either venture right or left from the parking lot. The right will be a short walk to a breath-taking viewpoint over the cliffs and crags. I flew my drone here which allowed for some beautiful shots.

On the left side, will be a hike down towards the rocks and beach. The hike down is quite a journey. You will really have to be careful as you literally have to climb down the rocks. There are ropes, stairs, and things to grab on to that kind of reminded me of my hike in Lion’s Head, Cape Town. However, it is extremely steep so be very careful how you position yourself. I did the hike in flip flops but would not recommend.

Once you get down, you will be greeted with blindingly white rocks that lends itself to a stunning cove. Here you can snorkel, sunbathe, and just soak in the beautiful natural landscapes!

Rent a boat for the day – Highly Recommended

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of this trip was to rent our own boat. Yes, you can actually  rent your own boat without a boating license in Zakynthos and Kefalonia.

You can take the boat and explore the island and its hard to access beaches on your own. Pack some beers and wine in the cooler they provide and you have a good day ahead.

There are many companies that will rent a boat to you all over the island. It just depends on where you want to leave from.

You can choose to rent a boat and drive it yourself. This will usually entail someone teaching you how to operate the boats before sending you out on your own. Otherwise, if you’re not comfortable with this, you can rent a boat and have a skipper next to you to help you out.

If you want to visit the Shipwreck beach, some companies will require that you take a skipper because the water conditions on the west coast of the island are much rougher than on the east coast. It just depends on the company. As we wanted to take a boat to Shipwreck beach, we didn’t want to deal with the crazy waves so we hired a skipper. He was great and took us to some very deserted beaches that were just stunning.

The prices are variable depending on where you go. I paid about €210 for 4 hours with a skipper and this price  includes  gas. If you are more than 2 people, this is a no brainer. If we didn’t take the skipper, it would have been roughly €160-180 but we are glad we got the guy in the end because he did most of the hard work.

When we were not on the west coast of the island, we drove the boat ourselves which was a first for me!

Scuba diving in Zante

As an avid scuba diver, I had to get my fix in especially since it had been so many months since my last dive in Bonaire in the Caribbean. 

While I’ve dived in Crete as part of my diving experience, I wanted to get the comparison with other parts of the country.

I dove with Zante Diving School located in the Bay which was a fantastic experience. They are an absolute top notch shop with great customer service. They only take out a maximum of 6 divers which is the right way to do it in my opinion. As a divemaster myself , it’s unacceptable to see DMs, especially relatively new ones, responsible for taking huge groups of divers. They had 2 people for a group of 6 which is fantastic.

We did two dives which was €110 and included all the equipment. The diving itself, for someone that normally dives in SE Asia and the Caribbean is not the most impressive. You’ll see small schools of fish but largely it’s just rocky and devoid of much life. The water is also much colder here (around 22-24 degrees in mid July).

However, if you need a diving fix, I would highly recommend going with these guys!

Where to eat in Zakynthos

Having only visited Crete before Zakynthos which had some of the best food of my life, I was unsure how a smaller island like Zakynthos would stack up as it’s known for being such a party island.

After the first meal, I was quickly reassured. Greece is known for its amazing food and Zakynthos is no outlier. It’s absolutely delicious and you will enjoy some of the freshest and most tasty food on Zante.

Located high up in the mountains next to the Agios Nicholas Church, this is one of my favorite meals in Zakynthos. They have unobstructed views of the entire island as well as the church in the distance.

The food here is also very tasty as I had some of the best lamb chops of my life here.

Taverna Akrotiri

This was probably our favorite meal on the island. It’s a taverna run by a local family located up in the hills. The food here was just delicious. They were roasting a whole pig this evening and shaved the meat straight from the animal. The ambiance is also very inviting/a bit romantic. Highly recommended.

Taverna by the sea

If you want beautiful seaviews, this is the place for you. It’s located right on the beach with stunning views of the sunset. The food is absolutely on point and I had some of the best octopus in Greece here.

Continue Reading:

• A Guide To All The Ionian Islands, Greece: Which Island Is The Best?
• The Ultimate Travel Guide For Kefalonia, Greece
• Visiting Lefkada And The Most Beautiful Beaches In Greece
• Paxos and Antipaxos: Travel Guide For The Hidden Ionian Gems
• The Ultimate Corfu Island, Greece Travel Guide
• The Perfect Ionian Islands Travel Itinerary
• Ionian or Cyclades Islands: How To Choose Between Greece’s Most Beautiful islands
• Why Santorini is my Least Favorite Greek Island
• Mykonos Vs Santorini: How To Decide Between Greece’s Most Popular Islands

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Astypalaia Island, Greece

• The Perfect Travel Guide For Milos Island, Greece
• The Perfect Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini Travel Itinerary
• The Ultimate Folegandros Travel Guide – A Slice Of Greek Paradise
• Ultimate Travel Guide For Amorgos: Greece’s Most Dramatic Island

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Thanks Johnny! I found a nice family owned bed and breakfast in Vasilikos.

One of the tavernas you mentioned…Lofos, I’m having a hard time finding that same location on google maps. When I look up Lofos, several come up and there are also several Agios Nicolas churches. Would you mind sharing the link to them please?

Hey mate the restaurant is lofos restaurant und pizzeria. The church is at st Nicholaos Beach on the very south of the island

This is a very helpful post but youre just missing the section where you go over where to stay in Zante. What places do you suggest for folks in 30s, no kids?

Hi Cal, if you’re not renting a car and want to party then Laganas is probably the best place for you. However, if you rent a car, then mos tof the areas on the east side of the island are accessible. I just simply found a nice Airbnb with ocean views and drove myself to restaurants and such.

Hi, Johnny, I like reading your travel posts a lot! I especially like the photo of yourself at the location, that’s something give your posts a personal touch and distinguish them from other travel guides. Keep up the good work, and share more moments of yourselves!

Thank you Josephine! Really enjoy the kind words and glad you like the photos!

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

ZÁKYNTHOS, (Zante) southernmost of the six core Ionian islands, is somewhat schizophrenically divided between relative wilderness and indiscriminate commercialization. Much of the island is still green and unspoilt, with only token pockets of tourism, however, and the main resorts seem to be reaching maximum growth without encroaching too much on the quieter parts.

Things to do in Zakynthos

Destinations in zakynthos, how to get to zakynthos, things to know about zakynthos, loggerhead turtles, tailor-made travel itineraries for greece, created by local experts.

10 days  / from 2608 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2205 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 1993 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Tailor-made trips for   Greece

The beauty of islands is the abundance of choices for beaches. It is no wonder why people flock to the Ionian islands for holidays full of sun, water, and sand. Navagio, also known as shipwreck beach, is particularly famous for - you guessed it - its very own shipwreck. Navagio features turquoise water and a cliffed cove. Other beaches that are well worth a visit include Marathonisi, where you may be lucky enough to spot a loggerhead sea turtle.

For breaks in-between sunbathing on the beach, Zakynthos also offers hikes and a landscape ideal for biking. Head to Venetian Castle, where you will find ruins amongst an old cannon and spectacular views. Tsilivi Water Park makes for a fun family day out, and Pure Beach Club is where you will want to be if you enjoying partying and drinking under the sun.

The island has three distinct zones: the barren, mountainous northwest; the fertile central plain; and the eastern and southern resort-filled coasts. The biggest resort is Laganás, on Laganás Bay in the south, a 24-hour party venue that doesn’t give up from Easter until the last flight home in October. There are smaller, quieter resorts north and south of the capital, and the southerly Vassilikós peninsula has some of the best countryside and beaches, including exquisite Yérakas.

Zakynthos is home to one airport, based in Laganas on the southern part of the island. Domestic flights from Greece fly frequently to Zakynthos airport, as doEuropeanoppean airlines.

Ferries to Zakynthos from Greece depart only from Killini, a port town in Peloponnese, although in the summer ferries are also frequent from Kefalonia. The journey between Pessada port in Kefalonia to Shinari port in Zakynthos is around an hour and a half. From Killini the journey is about an hour.

The island still produces fine wines, such as the white Popolaro, as well as sugar-shock-inducing mandoláto nougat, whose honey-sweetened form is best. Zákynthos is also the birthplace of kantádhes, the Italianate folk ballads which can be heard in tavernas in Zákynthos Town and elsewhere. In addition, the island harbours one of the key breeding sites of the endangered loggerhead sea turtle at Laganás Bay.

The Ionian islands harbour the Mediterranean’s main concentration of loggerhead sea turtles, a sensitive species which is, unfortunately, under direct threat from the tourist industry. These creatures lay their eggs at night on sandy coves and, easily frightened by noise and lights, are therefore uneasy cohabitants with rough campers and late-night discos. Each year, many turtles fall prey to motorboat injuries, nests are destroyed by bikes and the newly hatched young die entangled in deckchairs and umbrellas left out at night.

The Greek government has passed laws designed to protect the loggerheads, including restrictions on camping at some beaches, but local economic interests tend to prefer a beach full of bodies to a sea full of turtles. On Laganás, nesting grounds are concentrated around the 14km bay, and Greek marine zoologists are in angry dispute with those involved in the tourist industry. The turtles’ nesting ground just west of Skála on Kefaloniá is another important location, although numbers have dwindled to half their former strength and now only about eight hundred remain. Ultimately, the turtles’ best hope for survival may rest in their potential draw as a unique tourist attraction in their own right.

While capitalists and environmentalists are still at, well, loggerheads, the World Wildlife Fund has issued guidelines for visitors:

• Don’t use the beaches of Laganás and Yérakas between sunset and sunrise.
• Don’t stick umbrellas in the sand in the marked nesting zones.
• Take your rubbish away with you – it can obstruct the turtles.
• Don’t use lights near the beach at night – they can disturb the turtles, sometimes with fatal consequences.
• Don’t take any vehicle onto the protected beaches.
• Don’t dig up turtle nests – it’s illegal.
• Don’t pick up the hatchlings or carry them to the water.
• Don’t use speedboats in Laganás Bay – a 9kph speed limit is in force.

Top Image: Navagio Beach, Zakynthos © Neirfy / Shutterstock

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How to get to Zante

How to get to zakynthos by plane, ferry or bus, how to get to zakynthos in high season..

Flying to Zakynthos is undoubtedly the quickest and most popular way for many visitors to get to the island. From May to October there are several direct flights from most of the European cities to Zakynthos, as well as flights stopping in Athens, where there are daily direct buses or flights to the island. The ferry is still a valid solution for those travelling from Cephalonia Island, the Greek mainland, or Italy.

HOW TO GET TO ZAKYNTHOS IN LOW SEASON.

During low season, the only way to get to Zakynthos is by plane from Athens, which takes about 50 minutes, or by bus, which takes 6 hours including the ferry from Killini. The ferry is a valid option for those travelling from Cephalonia Island, the Greek mainland, or Italy.

GETTING TO ZAKYNTHOS BY PLANE

All year long, daily direct flights connect from Athens International Airport (ATH) to the newlybuilt Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). The flight takes 50 minutes. The three main airlines operating this route are SkyExpress, Olympic and Aegean.

However, from May to October, charter flights, scheduled flights and low cost carriers such as Ryanair, Volotea, Wizzair and EasyJet, have direct flights connecting most European cities to the island. For more info, refer to Skyscanner .

GETTING TO ZAKYNTHOS BY FERRY

In addition to flying, another available option is travelling to Zakynthos by ferry from mainland Greece, Cephalonia Island, and Italy.

From mainland Greece, ferries depart daily from the port of Killini to Zakynthos main port. The journey takes 1 hour and the service is currently offered only by Levante Ferries.

From Cephalonia Island, ferries depart twice a day from Pessada to the Agios Nikolaos port in the northern part of Zakynthos. The journey takes 1 hour and the service is currently offered only by Ionion Pelagos.

Finally, from Italy, ferries connect Bari and Brindisi directly to Zakynthos port in the months of July and August. The journey takes 17 hours and the service is currently offered by Red Star Ferries and European Ferries. That being said, it can be a long and tiring trip and we would recommend taking the ferry from Killini instead.

Ionian Ferries, tel. (+30) 210.3249.997, (+30) 211 2215502

Kefalonian Lines, tel. (+30) 2109515100, (+30) 2109518888

Before you start planning your trip to Zakynthos, you should visit the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to verify whether you need a visa.

GETTING TO ZAKYNTHOS BY BUS

In recent years, more and more tourists choose this solution thanks to the numerous low cost flights connecting Athens to most European capitals. KTEL operates the Athens-Zakynthos-Athens and Patra-Zakynthos-Patra bus routes. The bus ride from Athens to Zakynthos takes 6 hours, including the ferry from Killini, whereas the ride from Patra to Zakynthos takes 3hours, including the ferry from Killini.

From ATHENS to ZAKYNTHOS (every day, 4 times a day) price € 28.60

Athens Office: Leoforos Kifisou 100, Athens 2105129432

Zakynthos Office: Iatrou Mothonaiou, 29100, [email protected] 2695022255

From PATRA to ZAKYNTHOS (every day, 4 times a day) price € 8.60.

Patras Office: Othonos Amalias 85 & Dimitriou Gounari 1, 2610220129

How To Get From Athens to Zakynthos

Updated On: September 18, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

There are two main ways to get from  Athens to Zakynthos : drive to Kyllini (or take the KTEL Intercity bus from Athens) and then take the ferry or just fly directly. It is usually best to fly to Zakynthos, but I explain everything below.

I honestly believe that the  Best Way to get from Athens to Zakynthos (or Zante) is by taking the 1-hour direct flight and by doing this you avoid buses and ferries overall.

Also, to make it clear: Zakynthos is also called “Zante”

But also, if you are just flying from anywhere within Europe to Greece, chances are there might be a direct flight from a European city to Zakynthos (Zante) as there are a lot of direct international flights to Zakynthos from all over Europe every year. The same applies to every Ionian island, like Kefalonia and Corfu, as they are all famous Greek islands well connected to Europe.

A direct flight from a European city (other than Athens) is usually a much better option than flying to Athens first and then trying to get the bus/ferry to Zakynthos, so I highly suggest you check that first (unless you want to visit Athens first for a few days).

If you want to go from Athens to Zakynthos, then these are the two options you have:

There are no direct ferries from Athens to Zakynthos so you have to reach the town of Kyllini and then take the 1 hour and 15 minutes ferry to get to Zante port. This is too much hassle, in my opinion, especially if you only have a few days on the island of Zakynthos, so I highly suggest you just take the direct flight from Athens International Airport to Zakynthos.

You can always search directly from here the available ferries to Zakynthos:

• Ferryhopper  is the  largest and most safe website  in Greece to book your ferry tickets from Athens to Zakynthos, but you can also use it just for checking timetables and prices between Athens and all greek islands.
• Booking.com Flights  has all the available options for flights from Athens to Zakynthos (ZTH is Zakynthos’s airport code) with all possible airlines (Aegean, Olympic, Sky Express)

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It goes without saying that whatever I am detailing in this post also applies to the return trip from Zakynthos to Athens.

Keep reading…

ATHENS TO ZAKYNTHOS TIPS:

• You basically have  2 options  for getting from Athens to Zakynthos:  by bus & ferry  or  by plane .
• Best way To get From Athens to Zakynthos:  by direct flight (1 hour) because it’s just a lot faster; the ferry might be worth checking though if money is an issue or if you cannot find a flight ticket or you just want to visit Athens as well
• Best Website for Ferry Prices & Timetables:  Ferryhopper
• There is no direct ferry from Athens to Zakynthos but you have to get to Kyllini port first (3.5 hours drive from Athens)
• Bus from Athens to Kyllini : you have to take it from the Central KTEL Bus Station ( on Google Maps ), which is unfortunately one of the worst in the country and really old-fashioned and chaotic (see below how to get there)
• Kyllini Port on Google Maps
• Zakynthos Port on Google Maps
• Between April-October  there are usually 5 ferries from Kyllini to Zakynthos port
• How long is the ferry ride from Athens to Zakynthos:  there is no direct ferry, but you have to drive to Kyllini first (3.5 hours) and then take the 1 hour and 15 minutes ferry to Zakynthos
• How much does it cost to take a ferry from Athens to Zakynthos: there is no direct ferry from Athens but the ferry from Kyllini costs around 12 euros but the best is to just take the KTEL Bus with 26 euros which DOES NOT include the ferry ticket
• Where to Get the bus from Athens to Kyllini/Zakynthos: from Kifissos KTEL Bus Station
• Best Way to Get From Athens Airport to KTEL Kifissou Bus Station is by taking the Express Bus X93 ( see its route here )
• Where to Book the Bus from Athens to Zakynthos: from KTEL Zakynthou website
• You must  book your ferry online  and you can then enter the ferry with the barcode that will be on the email that will be sent to you. This will be clearly written on the email you will receive from Ferryhopper and it is now the system that most ferry companies use BUT some smaller companies may ask you to get a printout from a kiosk that is outside of the ferry and it is this print out that will allow you to enter the ferry. As a rule of thumb, if your ticket you got through email from Ferryhopper has a barcode then you can enter the ferry directly.
• How long is the flight from Athens to Zakynthos : the flight is 1 hour long, and checking in is usually quick but you have to be 2 hours in advance at the airport, as with any flight worldwide.
• Direct International Flights to Zakynthos:  there are many international flights to Zakynthos from all over Europe and if you don’t want to visit Athens, I highly recommend you take a direct flight to Zakynthos from a European city. Actually, if you are flying from the US or Canada, I recommend you fly to a European city first (London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome) and then take a direct flight to Zakynthos. The bus from Athens to Zakynthos takes too long and can be tiring.
• The Best Airline to fly from Athens to Zakynthos is Aegean Airlines (Check flights on Booking.com Flights)
• Strikes in Greece: strikes can happen anytime in Greece and for any means of public transportation within short notice; usually, they may happen on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays; yes, they may mess up your trip but they are necessary for the hard-working people of Greece so that they can have decent salaries and benefits for their lives. So, get over it and try to find some alternatives for your trip (a taxi is usually the best option).
• Strong Winds – Ferries Cancellations: in case there are strong winds (which can be pretty common in August in Greece), then the Greek Port Authorities may stop all ferries from departing, so bear in mind this is also a possibility that can mess up your trip; as an average there might be 4-5 days during the summer months that this can happen so get prepared
• Punctuality of ferries in Greece: in general, all ferries in Greece depart on time with no delays, and they won’t wait for you if you are late; however, they don’t always arrive on time as there are weather or other conditions that may affect their route to the islands along the way
• The Ferry Schedule for all greek islands is announced only 2-3 months before the actual trips, so if you cannot find any scheduled ferries for your trip 3 years from now, please check again 2 months before your actual trip.

So, let’s see all the available options from Athens to Zakynthos (that also apply to the return trip Zakynthos to Athens):

Athens to Zakynthos Ferry Schedule

There is no direct ferry from Athens to Zakynthos nor from Zakynthos to Athens. You have to get to Kyllini port first.

The Ferry Schedule from Athens to Zakynthos is only announced a few months before the actual dates of the trips, which means that the times for the busy summer months of May, June, July, August and September are only announced around February or March of the same year.

These ferries only connect Kyllini to Zakynthos, so you must get to Kyllini first!

Here is an example of a Ferry Schedule from Athens to Zakynthos in September from Ferryhopper :

This is just an example of a ferry schedule though!

For the latest Ferry schedule, always check on Ferryhopper .

The winter ferry schedule is less frequent, probably 1-2 ferries daily.

BUS FROM ATHENS TO ZAKYNTHOS

The Zakynthos Local Bus company operates a route from Athens to Zakynthos, which is basically a bus that will take you from Athens Central Bus Station in Kifissos to Kyllini to take the ferry to Zakynthos Port. The whole journey can take up to 6 hours.

Here are the available buses from Athens to Zakynthos:

You can book the ticket for the Athens to Zakynthos Bus here

The whole bus ride takes about 6 hours, of which 1.5 hours is on the ferry from Kyllini.

ATHENS BUS STATION (KIFISSOS)

Athens Bus Station is located in Kifissos area and it’s probably the worst in the country with very old facilities and amenities, that is also pretty difficult to reach as it’s not close to anything.

Here is Kifissos Bus Station on Google Maps .

HOW TO GET TO KIFISSOS BUS STATION

There are only Athens buses that serve Kifissos Bus Terminal in Athens and there is no metro connection.

So here are the possible ways you can reach the station:

• From Athens International Airport: you have to take the X93 Express Bus

You can also see the details of X93 Route and timetables on the official website of Athens Buses.

• From Piraeus Port to Kifissos Bus Station: you have to take the 420 Bus

FLIGHTS TO ZAKYNTHOS (ZANTE)

Booking.com Flights is the best and cheapest website to book or search for flights to Zakynthos, as it has all the available options (including any available low-cost airlines like Ryanair).

A few useful info to have in mind when booking your flight to Zakynthos:

• Zakynthos Airport on Google Maps
• Athens Airport Code is : ATH (Athens)
• Zakynthos Airport Code is: ZTH (Zakynthos)
• Every plane that lands on Zante, takes off after 1 hour to fly back to Athens.
• The exact times of the flights change, and they are not the same throughout the year, so make sure you get the right times from  Booking.com Flights   as it will give you all the available flights immediately.
• There are more flights from  Athens to Zante  between April – October (high season)
• If you book your tickets well in advance  (6 months)  you could probably find some very good deals with return tickets.
• The cost of the flight from Athens to Zakynthos may come up to  250 euros  during the high season (April-October) 

The airlines that fly from  Athens to Zakynthos (April-October)  are:

• Aegean Airlines  (Olympic Air is basically the same airline with a different brand name)
• Sky Express

I highly recommend you fly to Zakynthos instead of taking the bus and ferry from Athens.

There are flights to and from Zakynthos from pretty much any big European city. This is extremely helpful, in my opinion, as it’s much better to fly directly to the island from somewhere in Europe instead of wasting time with the bus and the ferry (and the same applies to the trip to Kefalonia or Corfu).

I honestly believe that, it’s definitely worth flying to Zakynthos and it’s a much better option than you taking the bus and the ferry from Kyllini. You will be on the island within 2.5 hours in total (1 hour flight and 1.5 hours for the check-in process at the airport) and you will avoid dealing with the bus and the ferry after all. Also, you will avoid visiting the notorious Kifissos Bus Station in Athens.

Check the latest available flights to Zakynthos on Booking.com Flights.

Zakynthos Airport is International , which means there are direct flights from London, Milan, Rome, Amsterdam, Paris, Munich, Brussels, Tel Aviv, Berlin, Warsaw, Glasgow, Birmingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Nottigham and many more European destinations.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long is the ferry ride from athens to zakynthos.

There is no direct ferry to Zakynthos from Athens, so you have to take a bus that will take you to Kyllini port first, which takes 3.5 hours, and then the ferry takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to Zakynthos. The bus journey might take more than 6 hours and can be tiring. A direct flight to Zakynthos is much faster and more comfortable (but it can be more expensive).

What is the best way to travel from Athens to Zante?

The best way to travel from Athens to Zante is by direct flight because it is quicker and easier than getting on the 6-hour bus and ferry. The flight is only 1 hour on the air and Zakynthos International Airport “Dionysios Solomos” is modern and easy to get to.

Is it better to fly or ferry to Zakynthos?

It is generally better to fly to Zakynthos because in order to take the ferry, you need to get to Kyllini port first, with a 6-hour bus ride from Athens. The bus and the ferry to Zante might be a better option if money is an issue and you are looking for the absolute cheapest way to get to Zakynthos.

To wrap it up, you have two options to get from Athens to Zakynthos: by plane or bus/ferry. I highly recommend flying directly to Zakynthos instead of the bus and ferry because it’s the quickest option. Flying is also the best option if you are visiting the island with young kids, as the bus road trip might be tiring for a child.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

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🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens, and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully, my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

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Greece becomes first European country to ban bottom trawling in marine parks

The law will come into force in national parks within two years and in all of the country’s marine protected areas by 2030

Greece has become the first country in Europe to announce a ban on bottom trawling in all of its national marine parks and protected areas.

The country said will spend €780m (£666m) to protect its “diverse and unique marine ecosystems”.

The Greek prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, told delegates at the Our Ocean conference in Athens on Tuesday: “We’ve established two additional marine national parks, one in the Ionian and one in the Aegean, increasing the size of our marine protected areas by 80% and covering one third of our marine territorial waters.

“We will ban bottom trawling in our national parks by 2026 and in all marine protected areas by 2030.”

He said he would also establish a state-of-the-art surveillance system, including drones, to enforce the ban.

The proposed Ionian marine national park will cover almost 12% of Greek territorial waters, safeguarding sea mammals like sperm whales, striped dolphins and the vulnerable Mediterranean monk seal and the South Aegean MPA, which covers 6.61% of Greek territorial waters.

However, the Athens government’s decision to go ahead with two new marine parks in the Aegean and Ionian has stirred up tensions with its historical rival Turkey . Ankara’s foreign ministry warned Greece last week that the proposal in the Aegean lay in a disputed area and that the initiative was “politically motivated”.

Conservationists welcomed the announcement and said they hoped the move would create a “domino effect” for other EU countries to do the same.

Nicholas Fournier, the campaign director for marine protection at the international conservation group Oceana, said: “Everyone was expecting France or Germany or Spain to step up. The fact that Greece is championing this ban on bottom trawling is surprising but very welcome.

“We hope this creates a domino effect on other European countries to do the same. The pressure is on France, as it hosts the UN oceans conference next year.”

The news came as France was accused of hypocrisy by conservationists over a post-Brexit dispute with the UK over fishing rights. The country launched an official protest after the UK moved to ban bottom trawling from parts of its territorial waters to protect vulnerable marine habitats.

Charles Clover, the co-founder of Blue Marine Foundation , a UK-based conservation organisation, said: “The grownups of Europe really do need to sort out the extraordinary chaos between its member states over marine protection. France claims to have already protected 30% of its waters – while their own conservationists tell us less than 0.1% of its waters are effectively protected from trawling .

“On top of that, France wants to prevent Britain banning trawling in marine protected areas in the UK’s own waters – which is utter hypocrisy, contrary to habitats laws that apply to both of us and unacceptable to the UK. Today we have Greece leading Europe by announcing that it will actually protect all of its MPAs from trawling by 2030, which amounts to a huge 32% of its waters. Has the EU no common standards?”

Bottom trawling by industrial vessels is a hugely damaging fishing technique that drags heavy nets across the seabed, destroying habitats and releasing carbon into the sea and the atmosphere.

Oceana – along with other NGOs, the Marine Conservation Society and Seas at Risk – has urged the EU to take tougher action against members that still allow bottom trawling in their marine protected areas. A report in March showed that the destructive practice is still happening in 90% of all offshore MPAs in the EU.

At the moment, just 7-8% of the ocean is protected, and only 3% falls under the “highly protected” category .

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Are cards such as revolut accepted in most bars and restaurants in tsilivi,also are there any ATMs that are free for cash withdrawals,thankyou

3 replies to this topic

I use my credit/debit cards everywhere. I always pay in euros, let the bank/company sort out the exchange rate as it’ll be higher if they convert it to GBP. I wouldn’t even think about using an ATM especially with the ridiculous fees they charge. If in doubt exchange your money before you go and not at the airport. I use Travel FX for a healthy exchange rate and they deliver.

Yes, Revolut is accepted, I use it year round, any visa or Mastercard is acceptable, American Express limited places accept it.

No ATMs are free, they are a flat fee up to €2 depending on which bank, do NOT use Euronet, they are not a bank & more expensive to use.

As you’re using Revolut answer #1 is not relevant re exchange rates as I’m sure you’re changing some within the app when the rate is favourable :) Don’t forget the atm withdrawal limit on your Revolut account though, there’ll be additional charges from them if you exceed it.

Backing up what Yiassas said re cash machine rip offs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1Hh8kY_hOY

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