Everything you need to know about Zakynthos (Zante) in the most up-to-date guide to the island!

Going out

Whether you are looking for a sophisticated night out, party atmosphere, relaxed lounging in the company of friends or gastronomic experiences combined with music and events Zakynthos has it all. Greeks like staying up until the early hours of the morning and entertainment is very important to them so many bars, clubs and even cafes stay open until late. 

Nightlife

Cafe-bars that stay open until late can be found in Zakynthos town both along Strada Marina and San Marco Square and the surrounding pedestrianised roads. Mpohali on the hill is also a top destination as it combines nightime entertainment with stunning panoramic views of Zakynthos Town. Also look out for bigger villages like Argasi, Keri, Alykes and Tsilivi  for good quality venues combining a chilled out environment, with a more lively atmosphere as the night progresses.

Numerous  bars and pubs offer live music or cover various genres such as rock, electro and world music. Because of local regulations nightclubs are not allowed within residential areas in Zakynthos especially in the town centre. There are however many nightclubs along the coastal road from the town to Argasi. These usually focus on mainstream music (international and Greek) and you need to pay an entrance fee to get in. There are also many nightclubs in popular resorts like Laganas, Argasi and Tsilivi. Some are very touristy and overly commercialised but probably not bad for a spin on the dance floor.

Arts and Entertainment 

Two major music festivals take place in Zakynthos every year. The Ionion Festival of Classical Music Paolo Carrer and the Jazz Music Festival. The festivals take place during the summer season at the beautiful open-air theatre of Dermatousa which offers stunning views of the nearby village and the sea.

Zakynthians love their music and are very artistic themselves, so there are always gigs, live concerts and performances taking place in one setting or another. Look out for big events published extensively around the island but also smaller venues that provide an equally interesting selection of performances. Even though these events can get very busy you are very likely to find a ticket even at the last minute. 

Greek Nights are on offer around the island’s many tavernas including traditional food, music and dance. Indulge yourself in everything Greek from singing along to Zakynthian serenades to learning to dance to Zorba and syrtaki. 

Local festivals include wine festivals, religious festivities and local celebrations and carnivals.

Recommended bars & clubbs

Waikiki Club

At the bottom of the main road in Laganas is Waikiki Club offering free entrance, top hits and cocktails until the early hours of the morning. The club hosts regular events and top DJs from around the world. If a party atmosphere and spin on the dance floor is what you are after, Waikiki will...

Portokali Bar in Argasi

This beautiful lounge resto-bar is located in Argasi one of the top tourist attractions on the island. Portokali Bar offers a garden lounge bar area as well as a dining area presenting traditional recipes with a modern quirky twist. The bar also hosts regular events such as art exhibitions,...