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Useful Phones

General and transportation phone numbers in zakynthos zante., general phones.

Police Department: +30 26950 28341, 48266 Tourist Police : +30 26950 22550, 27367 Alykanas Tourist Police : +30 26950 , 27367 Alykanas Police : +30 26950 83217 Laganas Police : +30 26950 51251 Port Authority : +30 26950 28117, 28118 Hellenic Tourism Organization (EOT) : +30 26950 48073, 23361, 48075 General Prefecture Hospital : +30 26950 22515, 25902 Hospital: +30 26950 49111, 49112, 49113 First Aid Center : +30 26950 23166 Katastari Clinic : +30 26950 83208 Maherado Clinic : +30 26950 92217 Pantokratoras Clinic : +30 26950 51210

Transport Phones

Olympic Airways : +30 26950 28611, 42617, 44433 Airport : +30 26950 28322 Killini Port Authority : +30 26950 92211 Bus Station (KTEL) : +30 26950 42656, 22555 Radio Taxi Service : +30 26950 48400 Taxi Stands : +30 26950 22280, 28104, 23788, 28261

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Zante; the flower of the East.

• The Solomos Square surrounded by buildings with characteristic traditional architectural features of the island, arch-shaped windows and arcades. The bust of D. Solomos national poet of Greece dominates in the centre. Here you can also find the Public Library (with 55.000 volumes), the Post-Byzantine Museum of Zante exhibiting treasures such as statues trimmed with gold, icons and art woodcuts.
• The Post- Byzantine Museum of Zante in Solomos square, exhibits treasures such as statues trimmed with gold, icons and art woodcuts.
• The coastal road known as Strata Marina (K. Lomvardou street), which is one of the most frequented part of the city, with cafes, bars and restaurants, from the Solomos Square up to the church of the patron-saint Aghios Dionysios.
• The Aghios Markos square. Here, in 1797, the revolutionaries (popolaroi) burnt the Libro d’ Oro and planted the tree of freedom. This paved square is the main meeting point for locals and visitors. Here, you will find the Museum of Solomos, Kalvos and Eminent Zakynthians which also hosts the bust of the Greek national poet, created by Georgios Broutos in 1902.
• Rouga: Its name is Alexandros Romas street, starting at Aghios Markos Square crossing almost the whole town. This street with the impressive arcades has been the main commercial center of the city for centuries.
• The Venetian Castle situated on a hill overhanging the town in the place of the old acropolis named Psofis.
• The Stranis hill, 2 km away from the town, offering a great view. Here, the poet Dionysios Solomos inspired the ‘Hymn to Liberty’ (later the Greek national anthem) and the “Free Besieged” attending the siege of the city of Messolonghi.
• Aghios Nikolaos tou Molou (Solomou Square): a church of Renaissance order (17th century) with a belfry dating back to the Byzantine period. Aghios Dionysios lived here in 1853.
• Aghios Dionysios (at the new pier of the port): where the relic of the patron-saint of the island is kept in a silver larnax.
• Aghios Markos (1516): The belfry of this catholic church situated at the Aghiou Markou Square is a copy of the one of Saint Mark’s basilica in Venice.
• Aghios Georgios: The army commanders Kolokotronis, Nikitaras, Fotomaras as well as other fighters of the 1821 Revolution took their vows on the icon which is kept in this church.
• Panaghia Pikardiotissa at the outskirts of the castle.

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The Ultimate Guide for Visiting Zakinthos Independently

Last Modified: April 12, 2024 //  by  Anda //   Leave a Comment

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is one of the major Ionian Islands – a mesmerizing archipelago located along the western coast of mainland Greece. Due to its spectacular white cliffs, hidden coves, as well as the famous Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos became one of the most popular islands in Greece.

We recently visited the island and had a wonderful time, but also learned a lot of things that we wish we knew before our trip. So we decided to put together a guide that will come in very handy for those who want to visit Zakynthos independently.

Table of Contents

How to Reach Zakynthos from Mainland Greece

When to visit the island, best way to explore zakynthos, renting a boat in zakynthos, boating on the northside of the island – best attractions, boating on the southside of the island – best attractions, visit cameo island, go swimming at porto limnionas, stroll along the port promenade, walk to the navagio beach viewpoint, swim at dafni beach, walk around zakynthos town, xigia beach (“sulphur beach”), step inside agios dionysios church, visit the old venetian fortress, go wine tasting, enjoy dinner at the windmill taverna, where to stay when visiting zakynthos, how many days to spend in zakynthos.

Zakynthos was one of the five islands we visited during our Ionian Sea itinerary. We rented a car in Athens , crossed the Peloponnese peninsula and then embarked on ferry. From mainland Greece you can reach Zakynthos either by ferry or by plane.

Ferry crossings to/from the island are available throughout the year and depart daily from the port of Killini, a seaside town on the western side of the Peloponnese . The journey lasts about an hour. During the high season, there is also a local ferry that connects Zakynthos with Kefalonia island.

In summer, during the months of July and August, there are also direct ferry connections between Zakynthos and the towns of Bari and Brindisi, in Italy. But this route is 17 hours long, so it’s not very popular.

If you want to fly to Zakynthos, there are direct flights from many European cities as well as from Athens, Kefalonia and Corfu, in Greece. The flight from Athens takes 50 minutes. The three main airlines operating this route are SkyExpress, Olympic and Aegean.

The peak season in Zakynthos is in the summer (June, July and August) when the weather is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. At this time of year you’ll get almost permanent sunshine and virtually no rainfall, but temperatures can be very high sometimes, reaching 39º-40ºC (100ºF). But summer is also the busiest time of the year, when hotels fill up to capacity and prices are at the peak.

The low season is from late fall to early spring (November to April). Although the weather stays nice for the most part, the water is too cold for swimming (around 60ºF). Because not many people travel to Zakynthos during the low season, most hotels and restaurants shut down from late fall to spring.

Autumn on the other hand offers the best of all worlds. In September and October the weather is perfect for swimming and sunbathing with daily highs reaching 26ºC (78ºF) and water temperatures going as high as 28ºC (82ºF). Prices are also lower in fall and tourists are fewer. Because fall in Greece  is generally warm and pleasant, those who travel regularly to these islands consider September and October the best months for visiting Zakynthos.

Zante is mostly known for its breathtaking coastline with white pebble beaches and turquoise waters. Many of these beaches can be reached by land, but because the island is surrounded by colossal limestone cliffs many can only be accessed by boat.

The best way to visit the island is by car and by boat. Although there is a local bus service (called KTEL ) that goes to some of the tourist sites, buses do not serve the entire island. So without a car, a scooter, or a quad you won’t be able to get around in Zakynthos.

Hiring a boat in Zakynthos is the only way you can see its magnificent white cliffs and hidden coves. Depending on your goal and budget, you can either rent a boat for the day and drive it yourself (you don’t need a boating license), or you can hire a boat with a captain.

We did both. On our first day in Zakynthos we hired a boat tour with a skipper who took us on the north side of the island. On the second day, we rented a boat and drove around the Southside by ourselves. So here are the pros and cons for each option:

Renting a Boat with a Skipper

Renting a boat with a skipper can cost anywhere from €200 to €350+ depending on the kind of watercraft you want. The tour lasts roughly 4-5 hours. Skippers are usually locals who have a lot of experience of sailing the area.

The advantage of hiring a boat with a captain is that you get to kick back and relax as your captain takes you from spot to spot along the coast. These guys know the coastline like the back of their hand, so thy will show you hidden spots and glide the boat smoothly through hidden obstacles. They will also tell you stories about these places that you may not hear anywhere else.

The disadvantage of hiring a boat with a skipper is that you won’t have much privacy and you’ll only get to spend 4-5 hours at sea. But for most people this will be enough.

Renting a Boat without a Skipper

On the other hand, renting a boat without a captain on Zakynthos can be cheaper and more enjoyable. Depending on the season, you can expect to pay between €120 – €180/day for a small boat. The advantage of driving the boat yourself is that you get to spend an entire day at sea, stop wherever you want, swim in crystal clear water and sunbathe on secret beaches.

And don’t worry about getting lost. Most boats have trackers, so if you wander off the right path they soon come out and get you back on track.

The disadvantage of renting a boat without a captain is that you get A LOT more stress! The relatively shallow waters along the coast often have unexpected obstacles, so if you don’t keep your eye on the water surface constantly, you may hit a huge rock and ruin the boat. Also, you’ll only get a limited amount of gasoline, so you can’t really go quite as far as you’d like.

Where to Rent a Boat in Zakynthos

There are plenty of different companies offering boat rentals all around the island of Zakynthos, but the biggest concentration of rentals is around the northern and the southern part of the island.

If you want to visit Navajo Beach and the Blue Caves (in the north) your best bet would be around Porto Vromi, or Alykes/Alykanas up to Cape Skinari. You’ll see the rental booths along the beach. 

For Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island in the south, you should go down to Laganas or Keri Beach.

It’s difficult to say which side of Zakynthos is more spectacular. Both are unbelievably scenic offering spectacular views of the cliffs, secret coves and crystal clear waters. Here is what you can see on the north side of the island:

The Shipwreck/Navagio Beach

There is no land access to this beautiful beach which is surrounded by vertical white cliffs. However, until recently you could anchor down in Navajo Bay and swim to the shore to see the shipwreck upclose.

But in September 2022 a 5.4 magnitude earthquake occurred between Kefalonia and Zakynthos causing a big rockfall next to the beach. Some rocks from the wall caused a big wave, which in turn flipped several small boats in the bay. Although no human life was lost, the beach remains closed due to the high risk or landslides in this area.

The Hidden Cave

Just on the other side of Navagio Beach you’ll find a beautiful cave called the Hidden Cave .  At low tide, a little opening forms in the wall from where you can swim inside the cave. Once you pass through the narrow entrance you’ll find yourself in a 20 meters high cave. It’s nice to swim in the turquoise-blue water, especially if there are no other people around!

• Blue caves  – The Blue Caves are located on the northern coastline of Zakynthos, east of Cape Skinari. They can only be accessed by the sea, so you’ll need to rent a bot to get here. The serenity and beauty of these limestone arches and caves is incredible! Gliding in and out of them with the boat or swimming in the turquoise waters around is an experience you won’t soon forget.

• Hidden coves/beaches . There are so many beaches like these around this part of the island, with white sand, turquoise waters and vertical cliffs above. Stop to as many of them as you can to enjoy a good swim and some quiet time.

The southern side of Zakynthos is equally spectacular and quite easy to navigate. But you should keep your eyes on the water for hidden rocks that may hide right beneath the surface. This side also has a lot of small, friendly beaches on which you can stop for a quick swim. Here is what you can see when boating on the Southside:

• Marathonisi, aka “Turtle Island”

Marathonisi is a tiny uninhabited island just 3 km off Keri Beach. This seemingly insignificant isle provides one of the last remaining sanctuaries for the endangered Loggerhead turtles in Zante (scientific name: Caretta Caretta). We weren’t able to see turtles near this island, but that’s probably because we didn’t know where to look. But if you rent a boat with a captain you may be able to see some as the locals usually know where to find them.

• Keri Caves

Keri Caves took me by surprise and ended up being my favorite spot of the day. We went inside many of them through keyholes in the cliffs, swam around a bit and had a great time.

• Mizithres Cliff Rock

This fabulous limestone cliff is as impressive to see from above as it is to see from the water. Technically the rental boats are supposed to turn around from this point, but we ventured a little past the rock to catch a better view of it in the afternoon sun.

• Small Beaches

Just like the north shore, the southern part of Zakynthos has a large number of small beaches tucked between the limestone cliffs. The water around them is calm and clear, so be sure to stop at as many of them as you can.

Other Things to Do in Zakynthos Besides Boating

Trust me when I say that Zakynthos is one of Greece’s most unique islands. Yes, all the Greek islands are beautiful and worth visiting, but Zante is truly special! Not only does it have a magnificent coastline dotted with gorgeous beaches, hidden coves and impressive white cliffs, but it also has a great deal of inland attractions.

So here are some of the best things you can do on your holiday in Zakynthos:

This beautiful small island located off shore of Laganas was once part of Zakynthos, but in 1633 a big earthquake separated this piece of land from the main island. Cameo Island got its name from the church on it, which has been there sixteen centuries. Today the small island is easy to reach on foot via a short wooden bridge.

Because it’s a private island they charge a small entrance fee, but that comes with a souvenir or a free welcome drink at the beach bar. The island is often used for wedding receptions and other parties

If you were to visit just one spot on the island of Zakynthos, I’d say go to Porto Limnionas. This is one of the beautiful but most hidden places on the entire island. To get there you have to pass through the mountain village of Agios Leon and from there drive down down to the sea, following the signs. The road ends in a small square where you can park. Next to the parking you’ll see a picturesque taverna below which are two terraces with loungers and umbrellas.

From there a few steps carved in the rock lead you to the stupefying cove with turquoise, translucent waters. The water is so clear that you can see the bottom from high up, on the cliff. Except for the restaurant and a small improvised dive shop, there are no other facilities here.

Even though it’s pretty well hidden, Porto Limniona is packed during the summer months. But if you come off season, or very early morning, you may have this place all to yourself.

Right next to Agios Dionysios Church starts a lovely walk of roughly a mile along the seafront. There are loads of cafes and pubs along the promenade, a few small fishing boats moored here, fishermen selling their catch to passers by and quite a few benches where you can sit and admire the view.

Navagio is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in the world, so no wonder visitors flock to visit it. While the beach itself can be accessed only by boat, the best view of the beach and the shipwreck is actually from the vertical cliffs that surround it. But it takes a little work to get to the viewpoint where those iconic Navagio images are captured.

The viewpoint is about an hour away from Zakynthos Town, on the road to Anafonitria Monastery. The route is marked with signs for Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach. There is a small parking lot next to the signs and right beyond that you’ll see a suspended platform surrounded by railings. However, the best views of the beach are not at this point. If you continue to the right of the platform, you’ll see a narrow trail that goes along the cliffs’ edge. If you continue on it, you’ll get to a small promontory from where you’ll have a much better view.

The hike is considered pretty dangerous as in some places it gets pretty close to the edge of the cliff. Since accidents happened here in the past, the local authorities closed the access to the trail with a wire fence. But eager visitors managed to cut an opening into it, so you can proceed at your own risk. If you decide to venture on it, be very cautions and make sure you wear good hiking shoes, NOT flip flops!

This is a beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters is located in the southeastern part of Zakynthos. If you visit the beach off season chances are you’ll find just a few people here, but in summer this place is packed.

Access to the beach is on a narrow dirt road that that is kind of difficult to drive on. At the end of the road there is a free parking lot from where you’ll descend to the beach. Next to the beach entrance there is a nice restaurant that serves food and refreshments.

Daphne is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Vasilikos Peninsula and one of the places where Loggerhead Sea Turtles come for breeding. 

Zakynthos Town is the capital of the island and the best way to experience it is to walk around. The most popular part of the city center is the area between Alexander Roma Street and 21st Maiou Street up to San Marco Square. Here you’ll find a series of shops of various kinds, bars and restaurants. In the evenings, the city center comes alive with tourists looking for places to eat, have a drink or just buy souvenirs.

Zante Town has a few beautiful squares the largest of which is Dionysios Solomos square. Here you’ll see the Byzantine Museum and the statue of the poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote the national anthem of Greece. 

At first sight, Xigia Beach may not seem any different from other small beaches you may have seen. But what makes it special is the fact that the waters here contain a large amount of sulphur, which is very noticeable as you approach the beach. Hence the nickname Sulphur Beach .

The sulphur comes from the neighboring caves and has healing properties. Sulphuros waters have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can soothe and even help heal the skin. They are also good for arthritis pain. But Xigia Beach is nice to visit even if you don’t suffer from any of these conditions.

Located in Old town, just a few steps from the port, you’ll see the imposing building of Agios Dionysios – the largest church in Zante. Agios Dionysos is considered the patron saint and the protector of the island.

The first chapel to honor the saint was built on this site in the 18th century, but it was completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1893 and then rebuilt in the 20th century. The building survived the devastating earthquake of 1953, which is why the locals consider it a miracle.

Above Zakynthos Town, on the hill of Bohali, stand the remains of an old Venetian Castle. During the Venetian rule, the Castle was the capital of Zakynthos island. The fortress was built on the ruins of an ancient acropolis, named Psofida. The date of the construction is uncertain, but it probably goes back to the 1480s, when the Venetians occupied the island.

Sadly, not much is left of the Venetian Castle that once stood guard over the city below. The strong earthquakes that have frequently struck the island destroyed the fortification almost completely. But whatever traces remain, will still give you an idea of how beautiful this castle once was.

Wine tasting may not be your first priority when you visit Zante, but don’t miss the opportunity to taste the island’s famous wines if you are here. There are over 19,000 acres dedicated to growing vines on Zakynthos and dozens of different grape varieties.

The island is famous for its red  Avgoustiatis  (which has been grown here since the 14th century) and yellow-gold  Robola , so be sure to taste them.

Zakynthos has plenty of restaurants, cafés and tavernas serving fresh, local specialties. We eat in quite a few places but were particularly impressed with the Windmill Taverna. The restaurant is located on the southern part of the island, in the Vasilikos Peninsula. We loved the view of the sea and of the Marathonisi Island from the restaurant’s terrace!

On the menu you will find many choices and we suggest you to try the bruschetta with aromatic oil, cherry tomatoes and parmesan, the mixed salad of young salad leaves with Greek prosciutto, gruyere cheese and balsamic dressing and the fresh fish. They serve delicious Greek dishes cooked with the purest ingredients. The service was also very prompt, so I can highly recommend this place

You’ll find plenty of hotels all over the island of Zakynthos. Whether you choose to stay in the northern or southern part of the island, you’ll find excellent lodging everywhere. Most first time visitors however choose to stay in Zakynthos Town, which is known for its boutique hotels nestled in the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea.

$$ Avalon Palace Hotel . This is a mid-range hotel located above the port of Zakynthos. We stayed here in October and because it was off-season they upgraded us to a suite with a private pool overlooking the sea. However, all the rooms are comfortable and modern, and breakfast is served up on the highest floor, on a beautiful terrace overlooking the sea.

$$ Palatino Hotel . This is a nice hotel located near the beach in Zakynthos, just a few minutes walk to Solomos Square. The hotel offers sea view rooms, free breakfast, free parking and has a good restaurant on the premises.

$$$ Lesante Classic – Preferred Hotels & Resorts . This is a luxury hotel located at Tsilivi Beach. The hotel offers complimentary breakfast and parking and features a nice swimming pool. Rooms are spacious and elegant. The hotel is kids friendly and has a playground and a playroom.

Most people visit Zakynthos as part of an island hopping itinerary and therefore wonder how much time to allocate to each island. When building your itinerary you should take into consideration the time you will use for your transfers between the islands.

Between checking in/out of hotels, going to and from the ports and the actual time used for the journey, you’ll spend the best part of one full day on the road. My suggestion is to plan around 3-4 days in Zakynthos to properly enjoy all its beautiful sites. Keep in mind that you’ll need two full days just for boating around the Northside and Southside. Conservatively, you should spend at least 3 full days on the island.

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

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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.

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.

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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 2657 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 2246 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 2030 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!

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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Zanteisland

• General information
• How to reach Zakynthos
• Zakynthos' maps
• Local food and recipes
• Dictionary english-greek
• 1 - Shipwreck
• 2 - Marathonissi
• 3 - Kerì's lighthouse
• 4 - Porto Limnionas
• 5 - Kerì Caves
• 6 - Bochali
• 7 - Blue Caves
• 8 - Night life
• 9 - Gerakas
• Western coast
• Eastern coast
• Turtles bay
• National Marine Park of Zakynthos
• Map and rules of the marine park
• Caretta-Caretta turtles
• Strofades islands
• Restaurants
• Fun & Sports
• Shops & traditional products
• Pubs & snack bars
• Car/scooter/boat rentals
• Alykes and Alikanas
• Keri and Limni Keri
• Villages in the north
• History of Zakynthos
• Churches and Monasteries
• Historical places
• Shipwreck and the west coast
• Keri Caves and Marathonissi
• Vassilikos and the south
• Blue caves and the wild north
• Between Alykes and Tsilivi
• Zakynthos town and Bochali

• RESTAURANTS

Zakynthos Island

General information about zakynthos, when to come.

May : summer season starts with hot days and fresh evenings.  The island of Zante is still empty with few tourists and it’s the ideal time to find lonely and relaxing beaches. The sea is mostly flat as there aren't strong winds and Zakynthos has a gorgeous nature full of flowers. June : it starts to be very hot and beaches become the perfect place where to stay all day long. Also the temperature of the sea starts to be perfect and the beaches begin to be filled with tourists. This is the best month to sleep in the night!  July : it’s very hot... but a fresh wind will save you every afternoon.  The tourism start to be massive and people from all the Europe come to Zante island to spend their holidays.  In order to sleep well in the night it would be better to have the air condition.  August : the same hot weather as in July but with more humidity. In this month you’ll see Zakynthos full of tourists, especially from Italy, who fill beaches during the day and night clubs during the night.  This is the ideal month for those who love crowd of people and night life!  September : the weather temperature starts to be nice and the beaches which are less crowded are perfect in the midday. There are few rainy days that change into a blue sky with a hot sun. This is a perfect month to relax in contact with nature without mass tourism.

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During the Summer season, from May to October, rain is very rare and the temperatures are between 30° and 40°C.  A fresh breeze is very often blowing and the wind, the Mistral, typical of this island raises in the early afternoon from North to South.  Below are presented some temperatures (in °C) which are usually felt during Summer period.

Useful information about Greece

Documents :  if you are E. U. citizens no special papers are needed to visit Greece, all the other citizens need their passports and for more info they can contact their embassies or consulates in Greece.

Animals :  before being carried to this land they need a health certificate and an antirabic prophylaxis. The validity of the certificate has to be more than 12 months for dogs, more than 6 months for cats and it has to be made at least 6 days before arrival.

Health : in Zakynthos town you can find the hospital where you can ask for help showing your sanitary card. There are few private clinics and doctors who speak English in the city and almost every village has a pharmacy.

Clothing :  only in churches and monasteries proper clothes are required (trousers or long skirts and t-shirts with sleeves). Some churches supply shawls to the visitor who is not properly dressed just before the visit.

Clock :  time in Greece is two hours ahead the Greenwich’s meridian. Like everywhere in Europe also in Greece, in the Summer season (March – September) the daylight saving time is effective. Something curious ... Time in Greece is conceived in a very particular way: here time is not running, there is no such concept of "being on time" and the clock is just something to wear.  The Greeks themselves are aware of taking it easy under every respect (but not in serving the tourist!) up to the point that G.M.T. is not considered as the Greenwich Meridian Time, but as the Greek Maybe Time!

Electricity :  outlets in Greece are double and not triple; therefore we suggest travelling with an adaptor.

Roads :  the island has an efficient road network, with main roads, secondary and no-asphalted ones leading to the most unthinkable places. The roads on Zante island are not always in a good condition, so be careful and don’t forget your security belt!

Money : being as well member of the European Community, the currency in Greece is Euro. The most famous credit cards can be used in Zante to pay accommodation, restaurants, rentals etc... Also the traveler cheques can be changed in every bank or exchange office.  Tips in restaurants are not obligatory, it’s up to you.

ZAKYNTHOS ISLAND

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Zakynthos Police Headquarters

Executives & departments.

• Adjuntant , Tel.: 26950 41111, 26950 24455
• Commissioner , Tel.: 26950 27791, 26950 24453
• Deputy Commissioner , Tel.: 26950 41386, 26950 24454

Organizational Structure / Affiliations / Networks / Memberships / Relations

• General Police Directorate of Ionian Islands , CORFU, IONIAN ISLANDS, GREECE
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Ferry Departures

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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The Ultimate Zante Guide

Live a unique experience, we will make your holiday unforgettable.

WE HAVE BEEN ORGANISING EXCURSIONS AND EVENTS IN ZANTE FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

Here at WelcomeToZante you will find everything you need to know about the island of Zante (also called Zakynthos). We will provide you with up to date information on the most important attractions you need to know about in order to make your holiday fun and relaxing .

Since 2006 we have been working closely with local guides ensuring that our excursions cater to your every need. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure or a more relaxing holiday filled with crystal clear waters and pristine beaches, our excursions are suitable for everyone, including families.

The main events are organised from mid-July through early September and are advertised in the Events section of our website. Festivals and evening events, organised weekly, will be posted regularly on our Facebook page ; follow it to stay informed!

The main events are organised from mid-July through early September and are advertised in the Events section of our website. Festival and evening events, organised weekly, will be posted regularly on our Facebook page ; follow it to stay informed!

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Discover the tours and experiences not to be missed!

Excursions to the marine park, marathonisi island, keri, marathia caves.

Excursions to Shipwreck Beach

Navagio beach, blue caves.

Useful info and how to reach Zakynthos

Here we suggest the best useful information for your holiday in Zakynthos!

How to get to Zante

Where to eat in Zante

What to see in Zante

Where to stay

Guide to the most beautiful attractions of zakynthos.

Here we suggest the best experiences to live during your holiday in Zakynthos, according to your tastes!

Events in Zakynthos

Watersports in Zante

Horse riding tour

Diving in Zakynthos

Zakynthos: excursions, events and rental, welcometozante.

Welcome to Zakynthos

Welcome to Zakynthos , the majestic Greek island of the Ionian Sea. Zakynthos, the island of Ugo foscolo, home of poets and a privileged land for Caretta Caretta turtles. Immense beaches of white sand and splendid woods in the hinterland but also nightlife with many clubs to have fun in an ideal mix.

Welcometozante aims to provide you with all the information on Zakynthos from the conformation of the territory to Night events , Beaches , Tour , Car, scooter, quad and boat rentals .

Read all the news on Zakynthos

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One of the most common questions or requests we receive from our customers is about buying excursion or event packages in Zakynthos. In order to experience the island to the fullest and be able to reach the main attractions, we

• Zante (Zakynthos)

Ionian Sea, Greece

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Zakynthos or Zante is an island of exceptional beauty in the Ionian sea. It is a popular holiday destination with beautiful beaches, diverse natural landscapes, water activities and lively nightlife. Find out more about holidays in Zakynthos, what to do and where to go, beaches, accommodation, food and ferry schedules. Book your trip to Zakynthos online on our ferry ticket booking engine . 

Vacation in Zante

Zante belongs in the Ionian islands group and it's located opposite the west coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. 

The Venetians named Zante " Il Fiore di Levante ", which means "the flower of the East". The name describes the rich natural beauty of the island, which stands out for the variety of flowers, trees and wild herbs.

The island's landscapes are impressive and it's perfect for outdoor and water activities . It's therefore ideal to visit the island from May until the beginning of October. 

Zante is a popular vacation destination for both Greek and international travelers. It combines a variety of activities and places to go, and it's one of the top options for families and groups of friends in the Ionian Sea. 

The port of Zante (Zakynthos) beautifully lighted

How to get to Zante

You can get to Zante by ferry from mainland Greece or by plane from Greece and some European destinations. 

There are daily ferry crossings to Zante from the port of Kyllini in the Peloponnese and the trip is just 1 hour. 

The airport of Zante is located about 4km from the island port. 

What to do in Zante

In Zante, you will swim in crystal clear waters and sunbathe on some of the best beaches of the Ionian Sea. 

You can explore the impressive nature of the island and hike on Zante's trails or organize a road trip. 

The island is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, while you can also organize day cruises in coves and sea caves that are only accessible by boat.

You should visit the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, a protected area in the Gulf of Laganas which is the habitat of the  Caretta caretta turtle. 

Zante is also considered a party destination for those looking for long nights out during their vacation. 

Beaches in Zante

Zante is famous for its crystal clear waters, beaches with white sand, caves and an impressive seabed.

Here's a list of the most beautiful beaches in Zakynthos:

• Navagio (Shipwreck) : The trademark beach of Zakynthos and one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. Magnificent clear blue waters, white sand, high cliffs and the carcass of the shipwreck compose a landscape of impressive beauty.
• Limnionas : Small and quiet rocky cove with crystal clear waters. There is no beach so you enter the sea by jumping from the rocks. 
• Laganas: The most cosmopolitan beach of Zakynthos. A long (about 9 km) sandy beach with umbrellas, sunbeds, beach bars and tavernas . If you are lucky, you might see Caretta caretta turtles in the area!
• Argasi : One of the busiest beaches on the island. Sandy, with shallow, crystal clear waters. It has sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports facilities, as well as tavernas .
• Agios Nikolaos Vasilikos : One of the most popular beaches on the island. It is sandy with beautiful blue waters and it has umbrellas, sunbeds, water sports facilities and beach bars.
• Gerakas : One of the most beautiful beaches of Zakynthos. It is long, with golden sand, deep blue shallow waters, umbrellas and sunbeds. At one end of the beach, you can find natural clay for a DIY mud bath!
• Marathonisi : An island opposite the shore of Lake Keri, with dense vegetation and 2 beaches of wild beauty. One of the beaches has sand and the other has pebbles.
• Blue caves : Impressive geological formations on the northwest coast of Zakynthos. The series of caves can be visited by boat. Don't forget to bring your mask!
• Tsilivi : A tourist resort area with beach bars, restaurants and water sports facilities. The beach is sandy with crystal clear waters.

The famous beach of Navagio (Shipwreck) from above

Sightseeing and activities in Zante

As soon as you arrive by ferry to Zante you will notice the beautiful architecture of the main town and the impressive landscapes of the island. 

We recommend that during your stay in Zante you find time to visit some of the following monuments and sights: 

• The church and square of Agios Markos in the main town
• The church of Agios Dionysios in the main town
• The Byzantine Museum of Zante
• The exhibition center of the National Marine Park (great for kids!)
• The museum of Dionysios Solomos and Andreas Kalvos
• Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa
• Anafonitria Monastery
• The Venetian castle in the area of Bochali

In Zante, you can do a lot of outdoor activities and explore the amazing nature of the island.

Here are some of the most popular activities in Zante are:

• Scuba diving 
• Water sports
• Boat tours 
• Trekking and hiking 
• Turtle spotting cruises

Boat ride at the beautiful islet of Marathonisi

Nightlife in Zante

The bay of Laganas is the center of the island's ecstatic nightlife . It has many bars and clubs and during the summer many international tourists visit the area for party holidays.

For calmer evenings you can choose a walk in the main town of Zante and in the picturesque neighborhood of Bochali .

Food in Zante

The traditional recipes and products of Zante are one of the reasons to visit the island in the first place! 

We definitely recommend that while in Zante you try:

• Ladotiri  cheese
• Prentza (cream cheese)
• Sgatzeto (meat stew)
• Kavourma  (traditional sausage)
• Mantolato (nougat) 
• Spoon sweets with citrus fruits

Villages in Zante

Zante is a relatively large island and you can explore different areas and landscapes during your stay.

The capital of Zante is a large town with the same name, located next to the island port.

The northern part of the island is less touristic, with traditional villages and wild nature. The largest villages in the north of Zante are Volimes and Agios Nikolaos. 

The southern part of the island is more developed with large resorts and tourist facilities. Some of the most developed areas in Zante are: 

The coastal village of Agios Nikolaos on the north coast of Zante

Tips for Zante

Here are some tips that might be useful during your stay in Zante:

• In order to see Navagio , the most famous beach on the island, you have 2 options: you can either book a boat trip from Schinari (close to Agios Nikolaos) and access the beach from the sea or hike to the top of the beach for a breathtaking view of Navagio and the Ionian sea. In the latter case, there is no way to go down the cliffs and reach the beach but you can take impressive photos of the shipwreck from above.
• There are many boat tours in Zante, which are worth it as you can swim in the caves and hidden coves of the island. We definitely suggest the boat trip to the unspoiled islet of Marathonisi, across the beach of Keri, in Laganas bay.
• One of the island highlights is the turtles and seals that appear along the beaches of the Laganas Gulf particularly during the summer months. If you happen to see any, make sure you keep safe distances so not to scare the animals. 
• Zante has a tradition in wine production and the island produces more than 50 different varieties. We suggest you organize a wine tasting tour in the local wineries.
• If you are into water sports then the best beaches for you are Agios Nikolaos, Argasi and Banana. 

Useful information for Zante

Zante is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea. In the main town of Zante, next to the port, you will find most shops , supermarkets, the island hospital, ATMs, and banks.

There are also several shops and ATMs in the areas of ​​Laganas, Kalamaki and Agios Sostis. 

In terms of accommodation , Zante offers many options for different styles and budgets. If you want to be close to where the parties take place, book a room in Laganas, Argassi or Tsilivi. In the center of the island, there are several options for quieter holidays and agrotourism.

The island also has many all-inclusive resorts as well as luxury villas. If you prefer to go to Zante with your tent or caravan and enjoy nature, the island has 4 campgrounds.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Zante

Some useful contact numbers for your stay in Zante:

• Zakynthos Port Authority:+302695028118
• Zakynthos General Hospital: +302695360500
• Bus services (KTEL): +302695042656 / 22255
• Tourist police: +302695042550 / 27367
• Zante airport 'Dionisios Solomos': +302695028322

Transportation in Zante

The island has an extensive bus network  (KTEL), with daily services from the main town to the resort areas, large villages, beaches and the airport. 

If you want to explore the island we recommend that you transfer your vehicle by ferry or rent one there. 

The churches of Agios Dionysios and Agios Markos in Zante town

Ports in Zante

The main island port is located on the southeast coast of the island. 

The port of Zakynthos is easily accessible on foot from the main town and it's close to many shops. In the port area, you can find a free parking lot, travel agencies and car rental offices. 

Island hopping from Zante

The island's location in the Ionian sea makes it perfect for island-hopping. in the Ionian islands.

From Zante you can easily travel by ferry to the following destinations:

• Kefalonia (or Cephalonia)

Check our  Map of ferries and find out more about the ferry connections in the Ionian Sea. 

Zante ferry: schedules and tickets

You can easily travel by ferry to Zante from the port of Kyllini in the Peloponnese. 

There are daily ferries from Kyllini to Zante all year round and during the summer months, there can be up to 10 crossings per day.

Zante is regularly connected by ferry with the west side of Peloponnese and more specifically with the port of Kyllini . More ferry connections include Kefalonia and then Ithaca and Patras.

Kyllini is located in the Peloponnese, and it's easily accessible from Athens and the port of Patras by bus. Here is some indicative travel information  to get to Zante from Athens or Patras:

• The drive/bus trip from Athens to Killini takes approximately 3.5 hours . 
• The drive/bus trip from Patras to Kyllini lasts approximately 1 hour.  The port of Patras is located in the northwest corner of the Peloponnese and you can get there in about 2.5 hours drive/bus from Athens. 
• The duration of the Kyllini-Zante ferry trip is just 1 hour.  

Lighthouse and the beautiful blue waters at the port of Zante

Where to book your ferry tickets to Zante (Zakynthos)?

On Ferryhopper you can find all the available ferry routes to Zante, compare ferry schedules from Kyllini and book cheap ferry tickets, with no extra cost ! Explore the beauty of The Flower of the East in just 4 clicks! 

Zante (Zakynthos) ferry timetable

View the complete ferry schedule from and to Zante (Zakynthos) for the upcoming week. Find up-to-date trip information, including departure and arrival dates and times, ferry operators and ticket prices.

Frequent ferry connections

• Igoumenitsa

Nearby destinations

Antikythera, zante (zakynthos) has direct ferry connections to 11 ports :.

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British tourist dies in quad bike crash on Greek island of Zakynthos

Ryan Bennet, 19, pronounced dead in hospital and his passenger sustained minor injuries

A British tourist has died in an accident on the Greek island of Zakynthos after the quadbike he was riding rolled over and crushed him.

Scots-born Ryan Bennet, 19, died in the early hours of Friday. Liam Cassels, a passenger, also 19, sustained minor injuries.

Greek police said the incident occurred at 2.30am in the Alikanas resort area. A spokesperson said: “It appears the victim lost control, although why that happened we do not know.”

The teenager was rushed to the island’s general hospital, where officials say he was pronounced dead. His body was expected to be transferred to Patras, the nearest city in western Greece, for a postmortem examination.

Police said toxicological tests would be conducted, and that both teenagers were wearing helmets. “What is certain is that no other vehicle was involved.”

Greek authorities said traffic police on Zakynthos were leading the inquiry. “From what we know the bike was not being driven at high speed and it appears to have been an accident,” said one source. “These are dangerous machines.”

Quad bike road incidents are not uncommon in a country where, as of last year, Britons account for the largest number of foreign arrivals. Zakynthos, like other Ionian isles, are perennial favourites, with resort areas being especially popular among younger revellers drawn to their party scene. About 4.5 million UK travellers visited Greece in 2022, nearly 3 million more than in 2021, and outnumbering Germans for the first time, according to Greece’s central bank.

While authorities said there was no immediate sign the vehicle had overturned because of reckless driving, the tragedy has underscored the dangers associated with quad bikes in tourist resorts. “They look steady because they have four wheels, but if the driver is inexperienced they’re easy to roll over,” said Manos Brouzas at the Athens-based Road Safety Institute Panos Mylonas. “They’re used primarily in the summer on islands and there has long been a debate over whether they should be banned.”

Brouzas said islands were more dangerous than the Greek mainland because the road infrastructure was poorer and safety drills were inadequate. “Island roads are often windy, narrow and dark, and then there is the problem of animals that suddenly appear. Tourists need to be better informed about what to expect and what to watch out for when driving around them. Safety measures need to be improved.”

Greece has one of the highest road fatality rates in Europe, despite the death toll coming down over the past decade. Motorbike fatalities, at 36%, are twice as high as elsewhere on the continent. Quad bikes are considered more dangerous than other vehicles because they are heavy and “difficult to control”.

The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) has frequently urged travellers to avoid quad bikes, citing reports of tourist injuries and deaths.

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Zakynthos police investigate Irish tourist’s death

Police on the Ionian island of Zakynthos are investigating the circumstances that led to the death of a 20-year-old Irish tourist after he fell into a pool at a club.

The man is understood to have lost consciousness after falling into the pool at the well-known venue.

Despite the efforts of the lifeguard who administered CPR on the man, he was later pronounced dead upon arrival at Zakynthos hospital, where he had been taken by private ambulance.

The man’s remains have been transferred to Patras for an autopsy.

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos (Greece)

On the Ionian Island of Zakynthos (Zante) there’s a world of difference between the mountainous north and west and the flatter south and east, where most of the beaches are found.

The upper regions have bright white limestone cliffs plummeting to inlets and coves like the marvellous Navagio, which can only be reached by boat.

Much of the southwest, around Laganas Bay, is occupied by the Greek National Marine Park as a nesting area for the loggerhead sea turtle (caretta caretta). This creature lays its eggs on the sandy beaches in the summer, and you’ll be able to go turtle-spotting on glass-bottom boats and observe the hatchlings scrabbling for the water after sunset.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Zakynthos :

1. Navagio (Shipwreck Cove)

In the northeast of Zakynthos is a cove embraced by towering white limestone cliffs.

Beneath them on the white beach are the rusting remains of the MV Panagiotis, a container ship than ran aground in 1980. There are two ways to experience this awe-inspiring natural sight: From above you can drive or catch a tourist bus to Navagio Beach View and queue up for what must be the island’s most emblematic scene, of the shipwreck and the cove’s glowing blue water far below.

By sea you could charter your own boat if you want to be independent, or board a tourist cruise from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos Port in Volimes or Zakynthos Town on the east coast.

If you don’t mind crowds you can sunbathe on the beach, swim in the ethereal water, marvel at the cliffs and explore the wreck.

2. Kalamaki Beach

One of a few beaches that we’ll mention in the Greek National Marine Park, Kalamaki is on the eastern pocket of Laganas Bay and could be the best on the island.

The coastline is protected, which keeps tourist development discreet and away from the beach.

There’s nothing more than a single bar renting out parasols and sun loungers.

And as you’re in a national park, the beach is diligently maintained.

The golden sand is spotless, while the beach shelves very gradually to warm, transparent waters.

On the shore you’ll see swimmers hundreds of metres out as the sea is so calm and shallow in this bay.

3. Blue Caves

The little harbour at Skinari in the very north of Zakynthos is the point of departure for trips to the Blue Caves, also only accessed by water.

Within minutes you’ll be floating through a magnificent set of limestone sea caves and natural arches.

There’s nothing accidental about the name of these formations as the water has what can only be described as a shade of milky blue, caused by the interplay of the sun and the white limestone.

You’ll be allowed to jump in for a swim and don’t be alarmed to see your skin turn a ghostly hue under the surface.

4. Porto Limnionas Beach

A newly laid road from the village of Agios Leon weaves down to this fjord on the west coast, bounded on its east side by high white cliffs hollowed with caves.

Resting above the fjord on the western slope is a taverna with tables and sun loungers on terraces where you gaze into the pristine blue water.

Further down are rocks and concrete platforms where people lay their towels, and you’ll find it hard to resist bathing in the shimmering, crystalline water and stepping onto the tiny beach at the northern end.

5. Marathonisi

This islet in Laganas Bay in the south of Zakythos is often called Turtle Island, as it’s a hatching ground for the loggerhead sea turtle.

For that reason Marathonisi is uninhabited and visitors have to clear the sandy beach to the north before sunset in summer to allow the turtles to come ashore to lay their eggs.

At the southern harbours of Limni Keriou and Laganas you can embark on turtle-spotting cruises to the island, normally on a glass-bottom boat.

The clarity of the water means you’ll have a good chance of seeing one or two.

You’ll be given up to an hour on the island to sunbathe, swim and have a picnic at this unspoiled setting.

6. Agios Dionisios Church

The relics of St Dionysios, the island’s patron saint are kept at this church right on the harbour in Zakynthos Town where they have been since 1717. His reliquary is carried around the town on his saint’s day, on August 24th, and the sarcophagus is opened daily just before noon for worshippers.

The original church was razed by an earthquake in 1893, this reconstructed building dates to 1948 and was one of the few left standing after the earthquake in 1953. In the classic neo-Byzantine style the barrel vault and walls of this St Dyonisios are decorated with frescoes, like the Panagia of the Madonna and infant Jesus in the apse.

The church museum has four works by the eminent 18th-century painter Nikolaos Koutouzis.

7. Keri Caves

At the villages on the south coast like Limni Keriou, Agios Sostis and Laganas you can book a boat tour along the indented coastline in the far south of the island.

The white cliffs soar to 300 metres and at their base are small sea caves and natural arches.

At one the boat will lower a ladder for you to swim in the sea, which has a radiance caused by the purity of the water and the sun hitting the white rocks.

You can swim into the caves to look around, and might be amazed to learn that the sea is at least 20 metres deep at the base of the cliffs.

The Keri Caves are often included as a stop on turtle-spotting excursions to Marathonisi.

8. Banana Beach

The longest beach on Zakynthos is also one of the most alluring, for its soft golden sand and shallow transparent sea.

Banana Beach is in the Greek National Marine Park in the southeast of the island, but that doesn’t mean that there’s an absence of facilities.

For almost the whole length you can hire sun loungers, or your own beach pergola if you’re feeling decadent.

These are all rented out by the Banana Casa Playa bar and restaurant, which lays on full service.

On the eastern end there’s a watersports centre for activities like parasailing, jetskiing and waterskiing.

9. Anafonitria Monastery

A stone’s throw from Navagio is a monastery from the island’s Byzantine period, consecrated in the middle of the 15th century and unharmed by the earthquake of 1953. Saint Dionysios, the patron saint of Zakynthos resided here at the end of his life in the 1500s.

The monastery has a quaint stone tower, originally built to defend the complex but later turned into a campanile.

The church is embellished with stunning if slightly time-worn hagiography.

Maybe the most photogenic spot is the courtyard, with free-standing columns, fruit trees, palms and flowers, growing in pots and vines creeping up the rustic stone walls.

10. Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery

Resting atop Mount Skopos in the southeast of Zakynthos, the Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery is a gruelling climb worthwhile for its 15th-century church and the exhilarating scenery.

The church walls are coated with frescoes and there’s an icon of the Virgin Mary produced in Constantinople and brought to Zakynthos after it was taken by the Ottoman Empire.

On the floor of the church you won’t help but notice the double-headed eagle, an emblem for the Byzantine Empire.

A lot of the joy of the monastery is the journey there, as you can hike up a winding path from the coastal resort of Kalamaki.

When the sun is glaring in mid-summer, you can always drive up the snaking mountain road from Argassi to the north.

11. Gerakas Beach

The southernmost beach on Zakynthos is also one of the loveliest, and has a western-facing curve of golden sand lapped by pure turquoise waters.

Behind the beach are precipitous sandy hills that get rockier at each end.

Looking towards the south, there’s a majestic promontory with bare rock layered red and white.

This more secluded end is also favoured by naturists.

One section of the Gerakas Beach is cordoned off, as loggerhead seat turtles use the beach as a nesting site.

These creatures mate during early summer and their eggs tend to hatch throughout the high season.

If you get up before dawn you’ll be able to watch hundreds of baby turtles shuffling to the water from the beach.

12. Byzantine Museum

In an arcaded mansion pointing out to sea on Solomos Square, the Byzantine Museum is a repository of Byzantine and post-Byzantine religious art from around the island.

From the Byzantine period there are frescoes, icons and wood carvings.

But the museum also has paintings, vestments, crucifixes and many more liturgical artefacts from the 15th to the 17th centuries.

Some of these were produced outside of Zakynthos and brought to the island when it was under Ottoman rule.

Elsewhere a scale model of the city and black and white photographs give you glimpses of how Zakynthos looked before the catastrophic earthquake of 1953.

13. Keri Lighthouse

Near the far south of Zakynthos, this lighthouse atop a 300-metre cliffs is only part of the attraction.

A restaurant sits on the cliff-top and from its terrace you’ll be treated to a very romantic perspective of the deep blue Ionian Sea, the cliffs and the outcrops at their base.

And as the terrace points west the sunsets are magical here.

The restaurant also has a small overhanging skywalk if you have a stomach for heights.

Naturally all this comes with the cost of a meal or drinks.

But if you’d prefer to take in the view without paying you can carry on down the road for another vantage point to write home about.

14. Askos Stone Park

In the very north of Zakynthos is an attraction that rolls a wildlife sanctuary, zoo, farm, forest reserve and archaeological site into one.

The park is named for the profusion of stone structures around, from the paving stones, to the drystone walls, stone-built stables and the remarkable cisterns cut from the cliffs and dating back six centuries.

For kids the best bit will be meeting and feeding animals like ponies, deer, peacocks, raccoons, chinchillas, turtles, goats, rabbits and pigs.

The farm is also planted with orchards for peaches and apples, grown without pesticides.

Depending on the season you may be able to get down to some rural activities like harvesting olives or milking a cow.

15. Aristeon Olive Press & Museum

Zakynthos is prized for its olive oil and this free museum a few kilometres from the airport will tell you everything you need to know.

The tour begins in the 1700s, with a collection of antique implements like a wooden press and grindstones that were once powered by animals.

You can contrast these with the state-of the-art factory and its stainless steel vats and centrifuge.

On the way your guide will fill you in on some olive oil facts and point out the difference between virgin and extra virgin olive oil.

At the tasting session there’s homemade bread to dip in Aristeon’s oil, and a factory shop selling olive oil soap and garlic and lemon infused oils.

15 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos (Greece):

• Navagio (Shipwreck Cove)
• Kalamaki Beach
• Porto Limnionas Beach
• Marathonisi
• Agios Dionisios Church
• Banana Beach
• Anafonitria Monastery
• Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery
• Gerakas Beach
• Byzantine Museum
• Keri Lighthouse
• Askos Stone Park
• Aristeon Olive Press & Museum