Zakynthos, or Zante, is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea. It’s known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. This guide will give you all the key facts about Zakynthos, including its amazing beaches, lively nightlife, and cultural spots.
The island is about 40 km long and 20 km wide. It has a wide range of places to stay and eat, making it perfect for all kinds of visitors.
The best time to visit Zakynthos is from May to October. The weather is warm and sunny during these months. You can see unique sights like the famous Shipwreck Beach. Getting there is easy, with ferry services from Kyllini and direct flights from places like Frankfurt.
When you’re in Zakynthos, remember to follow our travel tips. Discover beautiful beaches like Kalamaki, which is home to sea turtles. Also, try the local food. Let’s explore the wonders of Zakynthos Island together.
Key Takeaways
- Zakynthos, located in the Ionian Sea, is known for its stunning landscapes and rich history.
- The island is approximately 40 km long and 20 km wide, offering a variety of attractions.
- Popular activities include visiting Shipwreck Beach and exploring the beautiful white rock formations at Mizithres.
- Accommodation and dining options are plentiful, catering to different travel preferences.
- The best time to visit is from May to October for optimal weather.
- Kalamaki Beach is a peaceful spot known for being a nesting area for sea turtles.
- Direct flights and ferry services make accessing Zakynthos convenient for travellers worldwide.
Introduction to Zakynthos Island
Zakynthos is in the Ionian Sea and is known for its stunning views. It covers 405.55 km2 and has a 123 km (76 mi) coastline. With about 41,180 people, it’s not too crowded.
The island’s cliffs and blue waters are perfect for both relaxing and exploring. It’s a great place for those who love the sea.
The highest point, Vrachionas, is 758 meters (2,487 feet) high. The Venetians called it Fiore di Levante, or “Flower of the East”. Zakynthos has seen big changes, like a major earthquake in 1953.
During World War II, locals helped keep the Jewish community safe. This shows the island’s strong sense of community.
Zakynthos is famous for its beaches, like Navagio Beach with its shipwreck. The sea is home to many marine animals, including the Caretta Caretta sea turtle. There are also secret swimming spots and the Blue Caves to discover.
The island has a mild climate, perfect for outdoor fun and growing crops. It’s famous for olive oil, currants, and grapes. Zakynthos offers something for everyone, from lively resorts to quiet villages.
It’s easy to get around, making it simple to find the best spots. Whether you’re looking for fun or peace, Zakynthos has it all.
About Zakynthos Island
Zakynthos is a Greek island with a rich Zapynthos history. It has been ruled by the Venetians and the French, shaping its culture and architecture. This mix of past and present makes the island unique. Visitors can enjoy lively streets in Zakynthos Town and try local dishes in tavernas.
The island is 405 square kilometres and has over 35,000 people. It’s about 300 km west of Athens, with Zakynthos Airport ‘Dionysios Solomos’ (ZTH) as the main entry point. Most visitors stay for 4-7 days to see its Zakynthos attractions. The weather is mild in winter and warm in summer, perfect for outdoor fun.
Getting around is easy with motorcycles, ATVs, or cars. You can explore villages like Volimes and Agios Nikolaos to see real Greek life. Local markets offer great honey and olive oil. The island’s beauty, with olive groves and beaches, draws many visitors.
Nature lovers will enjoy the island’s efforts to protect loggerhead turtles. The beaches, like Navagio Beach and Xigia Sulfur Beach, are perfect for relaxation and photos. Each fact about Zakynthos Greece adds to its charm.
Zakynthos has many places to stay and eat, ensuring a great visit. You can find beach bars and family-run restaurants. The food and history blend well, making it a top choice for many.
For more on what makes Zakynthos special, check out this link. Every visit to Zakynthos is unique, leaving lasting memories.
Stunning Beaches of Zakynthos
Zakynthos is famous for its beautiful beaches. They range from lively to peaceful spots. Navagio Beach, or Shipwreck Beach, is a highlight. It’s on the island’s northwestern side, with clear waters and cliffs.
Swimming is now limited to 40 meters from shore. But the views are still amazing.
Kalamaki Beach is great for families. It has warm waters and is home to sea turtles. It’s 6 km south of Zakynthos Town and has many amenities.
Gerakas Beach, 18 km south, has soft sands and protects turtles. It’s a beautiful spot.
Banana Beach, 14 km southeast, has golden sands. It’s perfect for relaxation and water sports. Dafni Beach is quieter, with clear waters and fewer people.
Agios Nikolaos Beach is lively, with clear waters for sunbathing. Porto Vromi Beach has pebbles and boat rentals for exploring.
Laganas Beach is famous for its nightlife and turtle protection. Xigia Pigadi Beach has turquoise waters. Alykes Beach is sandy and popular in summer.
Zakynthos beaches offer something for everyone. They’re perfect for adventure or relaxation. The island is a top choice for beach lovers and nature fans.
Main Attractions and Activities
Zakynthos is full of attractions and activities for all. The famous Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is a top spot. You can only get there by boat, surrounded by cliffs and the wreck of the Panagiotis ship since 1980.
The Blue Caves at Cape Skinari are stunning. Their blue waters show off amazing light patterns. Exploring these caves is a memorable experience for those who love nature. The Kastro Fortress in Bochali, built in 1480, offers views and a peek into the island’s history.
Zakynthos is great for wildlife lovers. Laganas Bay is a national marine park since 1999, protecting the Caretta-caretta turtle. Seeing turtles nest from June to mid-September is a unique experience. Eco-tourism is big here, with six monitored tracks at Gerakas Bay.
There are also cultural sites like the post-Byzantine Museum and wooden sculptures. The monastery of Agios Georgios ton Krimnon, from the 16th century, shows the island’s architecture and spirituality.
Exploring Zakynthos is easier with a car or boat tours. These let you find hidden beaches and villages. Zakynthos Town has charming buildings, shops, and places to eat, making it lively for visitors.
Zakynthos offers fun water sports and calm walks by the sea. It has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax or explore, Zakynthos will captivate you.
For tips on exploring Zakynthos without a car, check travel tips to make your visit better.
Accommodation Options on Zakynthos
Zakynthos has many places to stay, from fancy hotels to cozy villas. You can find something that fits your taste and budget. This ensures a great holiday on this beautiful island.
For luxury, try Akron Luxury Suites with its amazing views and private pools. Bay Hotel & Suites is also popular for its beach access and top-notch amenities. If you prefer something more traditional, Lithies Farm Houses offer genuine Greek hospitality.
Zakynthos Town has lots of hotels for different budgets. It’s perfect for those who love local culture and nightlife. Argassi, near Zakynthos Town, has modern places to stay and lots of places to eat, making it a top choice.
Families will like Laganas for its mix of fun nightlife and family hotels. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find affordable stays in Zakynthos Town and Laganas for about 50 euros.
For groups, villas like Vafias Villa or Spirit of Zante are great. They can fit big groups, perfect for family reunions or vacations. With over 135 hotels on Zakynthos, booking early, especially from June to August, is a good idea. This ensures you get your preferred place to stay.
Accommodation Type | Location | Capacity | Average Price (High Season) |
---|---|---|---|
Luxury Hotel | Akron Luxury Suites | Varies | From 120 euros |
Family-Friendly Hotel | Laganas | Up to 4 guests | From 80 euros |
Rustic Guesthouse | Lithies Farm Houses | 4-8 guests | From 70 euros |
Villas | Vafias Villa | Over 16 guests | From 150 euros |
Budget Accommodation | Zakynthos Town | 2-3 guests | Around 50 euros |
In summary, Zakynthos has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore Zakynthos Town, relax on Vasilikos Peninsula beaches, or enjoy luxury resorts, there’s a place for you. The variety of options makes Zakynthos a great destination for all kinds of travellers.
Dining and Nightlife in Zakynthos
Zakynthos is a treat for food lovers, with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce. Top spots like Nobelos Bio Restaurant and To Diafokereiko offer dishes that celebrate Greek cuisine. You can enjoy a casual meal by the sea or a fancy dinner, making dining here unforgettable.
When the sun goes down, Zakynthos comes alive with nightlife. Zante Town is buzzing with pubs, disco bars, and taverns. The Barrage club, just 2 km from Zakynthos Town, is known for its theme parties on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Bochali offers a romantic setting with great views, while The Base and Avant Garde bars serve excellent drinks with a view. Laganas is perfect for young people, with clubs like Rescue and Zeros. From trendy cocktail bars to laid-back spots like Portokali in Argassi, Zakynthos has a nightlife to match its sunny days.