Welcome to the ultimate guide on Zakynthos Island, Greece, a gem in the Ionian Sea. It’s famous for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Every year, nearly 2.9 million visitors come, making a big impact on the island’s 40,000 residents.
The island is small, covering over 400 square kilometres. It boasts a long coastline of about 123 kilometres. This includes the famous Navagio Beach.
In this guide, we’ll explore Zakynthos’ vibrant culture and essential travel tips. You’ll discover the dramatic cliffs of the north and the lush south. Get ready for an unforgettable journey to this enchanting island.
Key Takeaways
- Zakynthos is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches and historical significance.
- The island offers diverse landscapes, from vibrant coastal towns to fertile lands.
- Peak season brings a swell of tourists, making it a buzzing hub in the summer months.
- Visitors can save significantly on accommodation by choosing to travel during Spring and Fall.
- Zakynthos is easily accessible by direct flights from key European cities, as well as ferry services.
- A variety of transportation options are available for exploring the island, including rental cars and motorcycles.
Introduction to Zakynthos Island, Greece
Zakynthos Island, Greece, is a beautiful place known for its green landscapes and rich history. The island is covered in pine trees and fertile plains. It has a mild climate, with lots of rain in winter and lots of sun in summer.
This climate helps grow many crops, like olives, grapes, and citrus fruits.
Zakynthos has been influenced by the Venetians, which can be seen in its buildings and culture. Zakynthos Town shows off this heritage with its music and architecture. The island’s culture is also seen in its festivals and food, which are full of local flavours.
Many people visit Zakynthos to see its beautiful beaches and nature. Places like Navagio, Kalamaki, and Tsilivi are famous. These beaches are special because they help protect the endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtle.
Visitors love the island’s landscapes and activities, like boat trips and watching sunsets.
The best time to visit is from May to October, when it’s warm and sunny. It’s recommended to stay for four to seven days to really enjoy the island. Zakynthos Airport ‘Dionysios Solomos’ (ZTH) is the main airport, and there are many places to stay, from hotels to private houses.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Best Time to Visit | May – October |
Recommended Stay | 4 – 7 days |
Main Airport | Zakynthos Airport ‘Dionysios Solomos’ (ZTH) |
Currency | Euros (most places accept credit cards) |
Languages Spoken | Greek, English |
Transport Options | Motorcycle, ATV, rental car |
Average Temperature | Mild, rainy winters; warm, sunny summers |
All about Zakynthos: A Comprehensive Overview
Zakynthos is a magical island in the Ionian Sea. It offers a mix of stunning coastlines and charming towns. The island is about 400 square kilometres big, with 123 kilometres of beautiful beaches. You can find beaches for everyone, from busy spots to quiet coves.
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is a highlight. You can only get there by boat, making it special. The Blue Caves along the coast are also a must-see. They offer amazing views and swimming spots, also only accessible by boat.
The island is full of natural wonders. Mizithres, with its white rocks, is a sight to behold. You can explore it from the cliffs. Adventure lovers can enjoy cliff jumping, snorkelling, and diving at Porto Limnionas.
Marathonisi, or Turtle Island, is a safe place for turtles. Kalamaki Beach is a sandy paradise for sunbathing and turtle watching.
Zakynthos has more than beaches to offer. Cameo Island has pebbled beaches for relaxation and snorkelling. St. Nicholas Beach is peaceful, away from the crowds. Shipwreck Beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs.
You can fly or take a ferry to Zakynthos. Ferries take about an hour from Kyllini port. Renting a car is best for getting around. For more on what to see, check out this guide on Zakynthos adventures.
Location | Access | Activities |
---|---|---|
Navagio Beach | Only by boat | Sightseeing, swimming |
Blue Caves | Only by boat | Swimming, photography |
Mizithres | Boat or cliff view | Exploration |
Marathonisi | Only by boat | Wildlife watching |
Kalamaki Beach | Accessible by road | Sunbathing, turtle watching |
Cameo Island | Bridge access | Snorkelling |
St. Nicholas Beach | Accessible by road | Relaxation, water activities |
Best Beaches in Zakynthos
Zakynthos boasts stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience. Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is famous for its beauty. It’s surrounded by cliffs and has clear waters, making it a hit on Instagram. Swimming is allowed 40 meters from the beach until October 31st, 2023, due to maintenance.
Kalamaki Beach is near Zakynthos Town and is great for families. It has sunbeds and warm waters. It’s also a place where Caretta Caretta turtles nest, offering a chance to see wildlife up close. Gerakas Beach is 18 km south and is known for its sandy shore and clear waters. It’s a key spot for loggerhead turtles, especially at sunset and sunrise when it’s closed.
Banana Beach is the longest beach in Zakynthos and is lively. It offers water sports like paragliding and jet skiing, along with beach bars. Porto Zoro is a bit further and is more relaxed, with sandy and pebble shores. Xigia Beach is less crowded and is famous for its sulphur springs, which are believed to have health benefits.
Zakynthos beaches cater to all tastes. Here’s a quick look at some of the best:
Beach Name | Distance from Zakynthos Town | Highlights | Activities Available |
---|---|---|---|
Navagio Beach | Accessible by boat | Iconic white sands and scenic cliffs | Swimming (restricted), photography |
Kalamaki Beach | 6 km | Family-friendly, turtle sightings | Sunbathing, swimming |
Gerakas Beach | 18 km | Protected nesting site | Swiming, sunbathing |
Banana Beach | 14 km | Longest beach, lively atmosphere | Water sports, beach bars |
Porto Zoro | 17 km | Coarse sandy and pebble shore | Swimming, relaxing |
Xigia Beach | Accessible by road | Unique sulphur springs | Swimming, therapeutic bathing |
Top Attractions on Zakynthos
Zakynthos is full of amazing experiences that show its rich history and lively culture. The famous Navagio Beach, or Shipwreck Beach, is a must-see. It’s surrounded by cliffs and has the wreck of the ‘Panagiotis’, making it perfect for photos.
The Blue Caves near Agios Nikolaos are another natural wonder. They have blue waters that invite you to explore by boat. You can see the beautiful landscape shaped by the sea over time.
Zante Town is a mix of old and new. It has Neoclassical buildings and historical sites like the Church of Saint Dionysios. The Post-Byzantine Museum shows off 16th-century artwork, giving a deeper look into the island’s culture.
For local crafts, visit Keri and Volimes villages. You can try the local food and wine, getting a true taste of Zakynthos.
The National Marine Park is key to protecting the Caretta-caretta turtles. You can see these turtles nesting in special areas from June to mid-September.
Other spots include the Keri Caves and Askos Stone Park. They show the island’s biodiversity and offer adventures. Kastro, the Venetian fortress, gives great views and a peek into the past. The Bochali neighbourhood comes alive at dusk with bars and cafes.
In short, Zakynthos is a special place. It has beautiful landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant culture. Each place tells a part of the island’s story, making it a unique destination.
Where to Stay: Zakynthos Hotels and Accommodation
Zakynthos has many places to stay, for every budget and taste. The Palatino Hotel in Zakynthos Town is known for its modern comforts and friendly vibe. For luxury, Porto Zante Villas And Spa in Tragaki is the top choice, with its amazing service and views.
Lesante Classic in Tsilivi is great for families, with a beach hotel and spa. It’s perfect for relaxing and exploring. Poseidon Beach Hotel in Laganas is also popular, offering all-inclusive stays and easy access to the beach and Marathonisi Island.
Windmill Bay Hotel in Argassi is lively and welcoming for families, with stunning sea views. For something different, Cielo Luxury Villas in Akrotiri is set in an old olive grove, offering luxury in nature.
Agalas is perfect for those who love the outdoors, with great hiking and cycling spots. For a real taste of local life, try family-run guesthouses or farm stays. Tsilivi and Alykes are also great for families, with their calm waters and fun activities.
Zakynthos also has budget-friendly options like Ecoresort Hotel Zefyros, a 3-star hotel surrounded by nature. Each place on the island offers a special experience, making sure everyone finds the perfect place to stay.
Where to Eat: Zakynthos Restaurants
Dining in Zakynthos is a treat for everyone. The island offers a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international cuisine. You’ll find everything from cozy tavernas to fancy restaurants.
Nobelos is a beachside gem known for its fresh food and dishes like artichoke with lemon sauce. In Argassi, Dominicale serves modern Greek food in a stunning mansion. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and local taste.
For a luxurious meal, try Fiore Fine Dining. It combines history with modern culture and offers amazing views. Melia Fine Dining at Lesante Blu Beach Resort is also special, earning a FNL star for its unique experience.
Zakynthos also has its rustic side. Ampelostrates, in a vineyard, serves home-style dishes like pork roast. Varkarola offers traditional food with a coastal view and live music.
- Popular Dishes:
- Pork souvlaki
- Fried squid
- Fresh fish, including octopus
- Culinary Specialisations:
- Seaside view dining: 30% of restaurants
- Traditional Greek cuisine: 60%
- Fresh fish dishes: 20%
Many restaurants are family-owned, with 25% making their own products like olive oil. Proselios mixes traditional recipes with global flavours. Ktima Grampsa has a green courtyard and serves local wines with traditional dishes. Votsalo is great for simple pleasures like grilled sardines.
Zakynthos has options for all diets. Avil offers modern organic dishes for veggie and gluten-free eaters. Zakanthi’s garden is perfect for a romantic dinner, with vines and twinkling lights.
Restaurant | Specialty | Location | Amenities |
---|---|---|---|
Nobelos | Seafood | Beachfront | Fresh Ingredients |
Fiore Fine Dining | Luxury Dining | Stunning Views | Rich History |
Melia Fine Dining | Fine Dining | Lesante Blu Beach Resort | FNL Star |
Ampelostrates | Rustic Greek | Vineyard | Homemade Dishes |
Varkarola | Traditional Greek | Seaside | Live Music |
Exploring Zakynthos’ restaurants is like going on a culinary adventure. You’ll discover a wide range of flavours and settings on this beautiful island.
Getting Around Zakynthos: Transportation Options
Exploring Zakynthos is easy and fun. Renting a car or ATV lets you see the island at your own speed. Companies like Eurocar, Budget, and Hertz offer good deals, with prices from €30 to €50 a day.
The island’s bus system, KTEL, is a cost-effective way to travel. It starts in Zakynthos Town and goes to many places. But, buses might not always stick to their schedules. A ticket from the airport to Chora is just €1.40, making it a favourite among tourists.
For a closer look at the coast, consider renting a boat. You can reach hidden beaches and lovely coves. With flights from major European cities to Zakynthos Airport, your trip starts with a short 3.5-hour flight from London. Ferries from Kyllini and Patras also connect to the island, taking about an hour and three hours respectively. Driving, taking a bus, or boating around Zakynthos is a great part of your trip.