Why Zakynthos

Zakynthos (Zante) is an exciting and resourceful destination offering an ample selection of creative, leisure and explorative options to satisfy adventurers, nature lovers, families and romantics alike.

Activity and Adventure

From watersports, safari tours, trekking, scuba diving, horse riding and sailing to painting, photography and recreational workshops Zakynthos offers a wide variety of choice for all those who seek new experiences and excitement. You can book these via tour operators or through your hotel. For more information see our activities page

Beach Breaks

If a holiday by the sea is what you are looking for, Zante is just the place. With a coastline expanding roughly over 123 km and a combination of both sandy beaches and pebbly shores you are bound to find what you are looking for. For golden sandy beaches and shallow and warm waters visit Gerakas, Porto Roma, Porto Zoro, Kalamaki, Agios Sostis, Agia Kyriaki, Tsilivi and Alykes among others. For wild scenery and pebbly shores with cool deep waters don't miss Limnionas, Porto Roxa, Porto Vromi, Navagio (Zante shipwreck), Agios Nikolaos and Makrys Gialos. There are many more hidden gems to be discovered around every cove and bay of the island. All you need is a good map and sun lotion.

Family Holidays

From nature explorations, round-trips, sailing and guided tours to discovering traditional delicacies, shopping in the town or taking advantage of family events and entertainment on offer there are plenty of things to do on Zante to satisfy the whole family. Don't miss Askos Stone Park of natural life in Volimes, Trainaki tour from Zante Town to the Vertzagio Museum at Pigadakia village, a visit to the world-famous Navagio (Smugglers cove), a katamaran tour of the island and dinner at Avriakos Estate in Vanato among others. Visit Zakynthos town and its beautiful Venetian Castle on the hill of Mpohali and taste local delicacies fytoura, pretza, pasteli and mantolato in the local markets. There are also many local festivals to be enjoyed by young and old. Check the local information centre for the programme of music, theatre and children's events scheduled for the season.

Romantic Holidays

Away from the crowds and tourist resorts Zakynthos offers an idyllic destination for a quiet romantic holiday. Explore the mountainous and picturesque villages of Kiliomeno, Exo Hora, Louha, Volimes and Orthonies and watch the sunset from Keri village or scenic Shiza at the top of Kampi. Lose yourself in the neighbourhoods of Zante Town and stroll on golden sandy beaches of Kalamaki and Gerakas. Enjoy moon-lit dinners by the sea and enjoy cocktails until the sunrise in the many atmospheric lounge bars in the town and Argassi.

Sustainable Holidays

Zakynthos' ecological significance has been in the spotlight for many years. The rapid tourist development of the 80s and 90s affected the natural eco-system not only in terms of the conservation of the loggerhead turtle Caretta Caretta and the Meditterenian monk seal Monachus Monachus but also in terms of the hundreds of flora and fauna species found on the island. Following both global and local initiatives and awareness for ethical tourism there are significant efforts by local organisations ensuring the natural world is not compromised by the tourism in the area. There are a few excellent providers like Earth Sea and Sky (for conservation and volunteering projects as well as eco-tourism packages) and Ampelostrates (for agrotourism and agricultural activities) among others.

Weddings in the Sun

Zakynthos is a top destination for beach weddings. More and more couples choose to let their hair down and start their new life under the Ionion sun. Greeks love weddings and really know how to throw a party. There are many local providers that will make sure all arrangements are in place for you from the actual ceremony and reception to accommodation, video and photography packages. A brilliant way to have your wedding on your honeymoon!

Zakynthos is an island of great natural heritage, scenic beauty, artistic influence and diversity combining breathtaking mountainous views with idyllic seasides, busy attractions and reclusive sanctuaries for peace and tranquillity. It is impossible to find yourself with nothing to do on the island. Whatever your interests and particular needs, there is always space for them in Zakynthos. To fully experience the magic of Zakynthos you need to be yourself. So go on, follow your instincts and be inspired...

When to visit

Zakynthos' climate is predominately characterised by its warm summers and mild winters. With Rhodes in the Aegean Zakynthos shares the top sunniest place in the whole country. Zakynthos has an average of 300 sunny days annually. Average lowest temperatures are in January (11C) and highest in August (26C). However, lows can approach freezing temperatures and highs can reach 38C and even 40C during the occasional heat wave.

Summertime

Zakynthos is characterised by its long summer period expanding from May to October which also marks the tourist period on the island. Busiest months are June, July and August. If you prefer a less busy time visit the island in May, September or October. Summertime on Zakynthos means long days, high temperatures and stunning cloudless full moons. Most beautiful times of the day are dawn and dusk. You need a very good sun lotion and a hat under the blazing hot sun at the peak of the day (midday to 4pm). The temperatures are still high in the evening but you might need an extra layer if you are by the sea or on the mountain. Rainfall is rare but can occur.

Christmas

Zakynthos in December is a completely different place. Even though most tourist resorts are closed for the winter months big hotels in the town remain open and many restaurants around the island open weekly from Friday to Sunday. The temperatures rarely fall below 0 C but winters can be cold and rainy. It is worth visiting at Christmas to experience the true local spirit of Zakynthian culture.

Spring / Easter

Zante in the spring is a real treat. The flowers blossom and the whole island fills up with colour and aromas. Easter is the biggest religious holiday in Greece and Zakynthos, in particular, celebrates it with great formality and passion. Experience the solemn ceremonies culminating to the biggest feast of the year and indulge in the scrumptious Easter goodies under a glorious spring sun and by an inviting blue sea. For those feeling brave a swim in the cool Ionion so early in the year can be an exhilarating experience.

Where to stay

There are many types of accomodation to choose from in Zakynthos. For budget holidays there are many good quality hotels, apartments, rooms to rent and organised camping sites. There are also luxury villas and stone houses to rent for the season. It is advised that you book well in advance especially during the peak season. Busiest times include June, July and August when prices also tend to be higher. During the rest of the year most tourist resorts shut down but you can always book yourself in at one of the town hotels that stay open throughout the year.

For a list of accommodation options and to place your reservation visit Zante Hotels. For online accommodation and flight bookings including car rentals and boat tickets visit Zakynthos Online. For alternative eco-tourism holiday bookings visit Ionian Eco Villagers.

Zakynthos top attractions

1. Navagio (Shipwreck) and Blue Caves

Two of the most well-known destinations, not only in Zakynthos but the whole of Greece, can only be accessed by the sea. The famous Shipwreck, which is the most photographed beach in the country, is positioned on the west coast of the island under the famous and picturesque mountainous village of Volimes. In 1983 an illegal boat carrying cigarettes was washed off the shore of the Agios Georgios bay as it was then known. In the years that followed the sand ‘swallowed’ the boat exposing only parts of its rusty body thus creating a stunning picture in the surrounding white sand and the crystal clear blue waters of the beach. The Blue Caves on the other hand, are geological formations as a result of erosion found to the east of the Schinari Cape in the North of the island. The vivid azure waters reflect the colour of the sky which is then mirrored on to the walls of the naturally formed arches (caves) creating a magical and surreal effect. To best experience this unique phenomenon one has to visit the caves early in the morning or before sunset. The biggest cave is called Cyanoun Spilaio. To visit the Navagio catch a boat from the Porto Vromi port off Volimes in the West and for the Blue Caves hire a boat either form St. Nikolaos port or the Town Centre.

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2. Sunset at Shiza

Visit the small picturesque village of Kampi to the west of the island and follow the steep drive up to the top of the hill where a big cross memorial stands in honour of those murdered during the civil war in Greece (literally thrown off the cliff and sent to their deaths). On the way up you will find the Mycenaean cemetery with original tombs of that era. Once at the top of the cliff you find yourself standing some 300 meters above sea level. Get there early before sunset to get a good observation spot and watch the sun’s magical slow descent into the transformative seascape and colour formations in the early evening sky. Family run tavernas are available both at the foot and the top of the hill with good vantage points for you to enjoy the sunset over a delicious traditional meal.

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3. Mpohali

Just 2 km from Zakynthos Town, at the top of the hill is Mpohali. Overlooking the port, neighbourhoods and streets below (as well as Argasi to the right) one can take in the wonderful views of the town and port below, the sea and beyond. Visit Mpohali in the morning to enjoy a relaxed breakfast and coffee or by night to indulge in a moonlit dinner or cocktails at the many beautiful lounge bars and cafeterias.

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4. Strada Marina walk

Starting at Zakynthos Port on the Argasi side by the church and bell tower of Agios Dionysios take a slow walk on the sea front, also known as Strada Marina, and enjoy the beautiful scenes of fishermen and sailing boats, local shops, cafeterias and horse-drawn carriage tours. The walk will bring you to the big square of Dionysios Solomos (in front of the Byzantine Museum) which hosts the poet’s statue in honour of his ‘Hymn to Freedom’, which later became Greece’s national anthem.  The square is surrounded by local sweet sellers and play activities for the young visitors. During the summer months there is also a local outdoor book exhibition. Whilst at the square you can also visit St Nicolas church and the cultural centre which hosts regular guest art exhibitions.  

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5. Marathonissi

The small islet is situated in Laganas bay and provides one of the nesting homes for the loggerhead turtle Caretta Caretta. Its turtled-shape formation has evoked a number of myths over the years one of which is that it was carved by the ancients in honour of the visiting creature! Restrictions for visiting the islet are imposed by the National Marine Park in order to protect the nesting grounds in the area. The islet is surrounded by crystal clear deep waters and rich vegetation. You can catch a boat from either Keri or Laganas.

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6. Anafonitria

Approximately 25 k from Zakynthos is the small village of Anafonitria situated near Volimes and hosting a beautiful 15th century Byzantine monastery, which was built in honour of the Virgin Mary. It was in this monastery that the patron saint of Zakynhtos, Agios Dionysios, lived the last years of his life as a monk. In the surrounding locality you will find traditional tavernas, local produce such as cheese, honey, wine and olive oil as well as arts and crafts hand-made by the villagers.

 

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7. Gerakas

At the southern most point of the island is the Cape of Gerakas. The beach of Gerakas forms the eastern part of Laganas bay and is a protected area and part of the National Marine Park. Gerakas beach is one of the most beautiful on the island and the shallow turquoise waters combined with the golden sand and rocky formations in the distance make-up an impressive spectacle. Gerakas is virtually unspoiled by the mass tourism on the island and there are very few hotels and restaurants in the vicinity. There is a strong local initiative led by the villagers to maintain the natural beauty and ecological significance of Gerakas and the wider area of Vasilikos.

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8. Keri

Keri is one of the most scenic destinations at the South of the island and is formed by Keri Lake by the sea and a traditional village at the top of the hill. Limni Keriou (Keri lake) took its name by the wetland that is still home to many animal and plant species. Down by the narrow strip of shore and the pedestrianised walk along the sea front you can find many local tavernas, cafes and bars to choose from. From the small port you can hire a boat, visit Keri Caves and dive into the cool crystal clear turquoise waters. Back at the small and quiet village of Keri at the top of the hill you can enjoy the simple joys of village life like hand-made coffee at the local kafeneion and a stroll among the small cobbled streets and traditional stone houses. You can also enjoy the magnificent views of Myzithres, two large rocky formations in the sea, viewed by the Faros (lighthouse).

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9. Limnionas

Some 25k from the town and just off Agios Leon in the West there is Limnionas a beautiful unspoiled lagoon with transparent and emerald green waters. There is no beach as such but plenty of flat rocks you can sunbathe on. The best experience is diving into the freezing cold waters of the bay a combination of sea currents and underwater streams. The scenic views are also enjoyed by the only taverna in the vicinity which serves fresh fish and other local delicacies.

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10. Zakynthos Town

The town is best enjoyed on foot. Explore its paved streets and squares and take your time to really explore the local arts and produce generously available from corner to corner. From bakeries to cafes, local markets, sweet shops, clothes and jewellery boutiques to picturesque neighbourhoods, museums and hidden heritage (like the English cemetery), Zakynthos Town has it all. The town’s architecture is reminiscent of the Venetian and Byzantine eras. The town is vibrant and on the move until the early hours of the morning, however under strict regulations night clubs can only be found on the outskirts of the town along the sea front road leading to Argasi.

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Tourist Info

Getting there 

By air – Zakynthos' airport 'Dionysios Solomos' serves both national and international flights all year around. It is located 4km from the town centre and only 2km from Laganas. Between May and October there are direct charter flights from various European countries including the UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany, France and Holland among others. If you are flying from outside the European Union you would need to fly into Zakynthos via Athens. From November through to April there are no charter flights, therefore one has to travel to Athens and take a connecting flight into the island. Daily domestic flights between Athens and Zakynthos operate throughout the year. Other connections from Zante include Kerkyra, Kefalonia and Thessaloniki.

By ferry – You can catch a ferry from Kyllini, on the Peloponnisos side of mainland Greece. There are regular departures during the summer months. If you are travelling from Europe you can catch a ferry to Patra from Venice, Ancona, Bari or Brindizi and then, from there, another into Zakynthos. For information on schedule and bookings visit Greek Ferries

By car – From mainland Greece drive to Kyllini and then catch a ferry as above. Driving into Zakynthos from Europe is feasible but could take up to five days.  

By coach – Coaches depart daily from both Athens and Patra. From Athens International airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) take the E93 bus service which takes you directly to Kiffisos KTEL station. From there you can catch a coach to Zakynthos (journey time up to 5 hours). For updated information visit KTEL

Getting around the island

Car: Car hire in Zante is probably the best way to get around the island and reach some of the most remote spots and unique views either in the mountainous villages or by the sea. It is often  cheaper to book online or as part of your holiday package. The road system in Zakynthos is often in poor condition and tarmac can get very slippery in the heat. Also beware of low visibility bends, pothalls and irresponsible drivers. Ensure you have a good road map with you and keep to the speed limits at all times. Ensure you always have enough petrol as there are not a lot of petrol stations in the small villages - however, there are plenty on the main busy roads from and to the bigger villages.  

Bus: There is a local bus system that is however, not the most reliable means to get around the island. In addition some services do not run over the weekends. Some of the destinations covered by buses departing from Zakynthos Town are: Agalas, Agios Leon, Agios Nikolaos, Alykes, Anafonitria, Argasi, Katastari, Keri, Laganas, Volimes and Vasilikos among others.  

Taxi: Taxis are always available everywhere on the island. Your taxi fare will either be fixed (usually for tourist rides to different resorts) or, if you board a meter taxi, ensure the driver switches the day-time meter on when you board (night fares are more or less double the normal charge). 

Boat: You should definetely attempt to tour the island from the sea. Various tour operators offer different packages. You can also hire boats privately but restrictions apply as to where you can use them. Marathonissi islet, the famous Navagio (shipwreck), Blue Caves and Keri Caves can only be reached by sea.

Motorbikes and Quad-bikes:  There are plenty of outlets hiring out all sorts of mopeds and bikes. These are widely used during the summer months and unfortunately not in the most safest or sensible of ways. Try to choose alternative means of transport where possible as quality controls and safety measures are not always up to the required standards for these vehicles. 

Bicycle: You can hire bicycles from a number of outlets around the island. Be extra cautious when cycling on busy roads as the local motor system is not disigned with cyclists in mind. There is one bicycle path on the island found between Volimes and Anafonitria. Another picturesque location for cycling is the salt flat in Alykes.

History & Culture

Zakynthos has been subject to multiple foreign occupations for the biggest part of its history. This is very much evident in the island's rich and diverse architecture, local arts, culture, food and overall tamperament.

Architecture

Zakynthian architecture predominetly follows the Venetian style. There are also a lot of Byzantine and Neo-Classical influences as well as Gothic architecture mainly found around the island's many Bell Towers. Distinctive to the Zakynthian architecture are also the traditional stone houses featuring wood-and-tile-made roofs, sculpted decorative pieces above doorways and windows and wrought iron staircases (internally), balcony rails and gates (externally). 

Maria Anafonitria Bell tower at Skoulikado

Music

Zakynthos is famous for its well known 'kandades', the distictive melodic polyphonic songs accompanied by mandolin and guitar often based on improvised lyrics. Even though the style is reminiscent of the Venetian arias, kandades are unique to the Ionion and especially to Zakynthos and Kefalonia. Georgios Kostis was the most famous player of Kandades. The first Music School was established on the island in 1815. Opera was also developed on the island combining the two arts of music and theatre. Pavlos Karrer and Panagiotis Gritzanis were two of the most notable classical composers of Zakynthos. The first professional female singer was the Zakynthian Isabella Yiatra. 

Theatre

The first theatre was built on the structure of the Kandades and was provided by the Venetians whilst on the island. Later the traditional 'Omilies' (speeches) were developed in the 17th century and focused on the struggles between the lower classes and aristocracy. Originally they were performed in the houses of Nobility with actors wearing masks to protect their identiy, but were later performed in the communal squares and streets. Omilies are very much staged in the present especially during carnivals and traditional festivals. The first Municipal Theatre was built in 1875 and designed by Tiller, famous German architect. At some point there were 15 theatrical stages on the island. The first female actress, Aikaterini Viagini, performed on stage in 1820.

Folk art

Zakynthos is well known for its traditional ceramics, pottery, lace, weavings, carvings and paintings found around the many villages of the island and sold by the locals often outside churches or even their family homes and during festivals and local celebrations in the community.

Painting

The Eptanissian School of Art was founded in Zakynthos which is famous for its great tradition in hierography, portraits and landscapes inspired by the natural beauty of the island. Great artists include: Tzanes, Klotzas, Aggelos, Viktoras, Moschos, Doxaras, Kadounis, Koutouzis, Pelekasis, Kallergis and Koreis. 

Literature

Zakynthos has produced some of the greatest and most famous poets and writers in Greece. Dionysios Solomos famously wrote the 'Hymn to Liberty' (Emnos Eis Tin Eleftheria) which later became the Greek National Anthem. Andreas Kalvos was another famous poet and writer best known for his patriotism. Grigorios Xenopoulos was a significant novelist and play-writer. Hugo Foskolo the great Italian poet also originated from Zakynthos as were Kantounis, Gouselis and Soumerlis, the great comedy writers of Modern Greece. Zakynthos has also inspired foreign writers most notable of all Edgar Allan Poe who wrote his famous 'Sonnet To Zante'. Other notable names linked to the great Zakynthian heritage are: Sgouros, Martelaos, Kountouzis, Romas, Mpiskinis, Tsagasianos as well as Moutsan Martinegkou (the female poet of that time).

Museums

Zakynthos has a number of notable museums to be visited like the Museum of Byzantine and Post Byzantine Art at Solomos Square (with displays of ecclesiastical works, hagiographies, wooden carvings, frescos and wall paintings), Solomos and Kalvos Museum (seen on the right) at St Markos Square (hosting the tomb of the National Poet, pocessions of other famous Zakynthians and artefacts from the Venetian period including clothes, furniture, photographs and portraits), the Grigorios Xenopoulos Museum near Agios Dionysios Church (with personal artefacts and pocessions of the famous novelist and play-writer), the Vertzagio Museum at Pigadakia (which covers 200 years of traditional history including house layout, artefacts, utensils, furniture, decorations, stone oven, money, newspapers, agricultural machinery and traditional gifts) and the Naval Museum at Strani Hill (covering a period between 1700 to the present day including Byzantine vessels, and costumes from the Greek civil war in WWI and WWII. 

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