Zakynthos - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Zakynthos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Zakynthos, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Zakynthos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Zakynthos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Zakynthos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a beautiful island located in the Ionian Sea on the western coast of Greece. It is popularly known for its breathtaking natural landscape, including sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. The island is also home to unique wildlife, including the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle, which nestles on many of its beaches. Zakynthos is also rich in history and culture, as evident by the Venetian architecture, traditional tavernas, and museums. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities on the island, including scuba diving, boating, hiking, and exploring the numerous traditional villages.

What to visit in Zakynthos

1. Navagio Beach - Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Navagio is one of the most photographed and popular beaches in Greece. It is only accessible by boat and features crystal clear turquoise waters and a rusted shipwreck on the shore.
2. Blue Caves - Located on the northern tip of Zakynthos, the Blue Caves are a series of natural underwater arches and tunnels that you can visit by boat. The water is an intense blue color due to the reflection of sunlight off the white sand and limestone seabed.
3. Keri Caves - The Keri Caves are another set of sea caves on the west coast of Zakynthos. You can take a boat tour to explore them, or rent a kayak and go at your own pace. Be sure to check out the stunning cliffs and rock formations as well.
4. Porto Limnionas - A small, secluded cove located on the western coast of Zakynthos. The water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. There are also beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, as well as a restaurant and bar.
5. Zakynthos town - The capital of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a charming town with Venetian architecture and plenty of shops and restaurants. Check out the beautiful squares and historical buildings, as well as the Byzantine Museum.
6. Alykes - A resort town on the northeastern coast of Zakynthos. The beach is long and sandy, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. Alykes is also a popular spot for watersports like parasailing and jet skiing.
7. Gerakas Beach - A stunning, secluded beach located in the southern part of Zakynthos. Gerakas is a protected area due to the nesting loggerhead turtles, so there are restrictions on certain activities. However, it still offers beautiful scenery and crystal clear waters to enjoy.
8. Marathonisi Island - A small, uninhabited island off the southern coast of Zakynthos. You can take a boat tour to see the beautiful caves and rock formations, and there are also opportunities for snorkeling and swimming with turtles.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Zakynthos.

When to go on holiday to Zakynthos

The best time to visit Zakynthos, Greece is during the months of May to September when the weather is warm and dry. July and August are the hottest months with peak tourist season, so it tends to be much busier and more expensive during this time. June and September are also great months to visit as the weather is still warm and the crowds are thinner. However, if you are looking for cheaper prices and don't mind slightly cooler weather, April and October can be great options too.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Zakynthos

There are several ways to get to Zakynthos, Greece: 1. By airplane: Zakynthos has its own airport, Zakythos International Airport "Dionysios Solomos" (ZTH), which is located about 6 km south of Zakynthos Town. There are direct flights to Zakynthos from major European cities, such as London, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Rome.
2. By ferry: Ferries run regularly to Zakynthos from the ports of Killini and Kyllini on the Greek mainland. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours.
3. By bus: You can reach Zakynthos by bus from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major Greek cities. Travel time may vary depending on your location.
4. By car: You can drive to Zakynthos from Athens by taking the National Road to Patras and then taking the ferry from Killini to Zakynthos.
Overall, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Zakynthos is by airplane.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Zakynthos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Zakynthos

Sure, here are some typical foods of Zakynthos (Greece) and a short description for each of them: 1. Skordostoumbi: This is a type of garlic bread made with olive oil and lots of garlic. It's usually served as a side dish or appetizer.
2. Saganaki: This is a type of fried cheese that is popular in Greece. In Zakynthos, they often use a type of cheese called kefalotyri, which is salty and firm.
3. Ladotyri: This is a type of cheese made with olive oil. It's usually served as a topping for bread or used in salads.
4. Tzatziki: This is a popular dip made with yogurt, garlic, and cucumber. It's usually served as a side dish with meat or vegetables.
5. Avgolemono soup: This is a traditional Greek soup made with chicken broth, lemon, and eggs. It's usually served as a starter or a light meal.
6. Moussaka: This is a traditional Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and ground meat. It's topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden brown.
7. Souvlaki: This is a popular Greek street food made with grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) on a skewer. It's often served with pita bread and tzatziki.
8. Spanakopita: This is a savory pastry made with spinach and feta cheese. It's usually served as an appetizer or a light meal.
9. Kleftiko: This is a traditional Greek dish made with slow-roasted lamb or goat. It's usually served with potatoes and vegetables.
10. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. It's a popular dessert in Greece and is often served with coffee or tea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Zakynthos an expensive destination for tourists?

Zakynthos can be a bit expensive for tourists, especially during the high season, which is from June to August. Prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment tend to go up during this time. However, if you plan ahead and book your trip well in advance, you may be able to find some good deals. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available on the island, such as self-catering apartments and small guesthouses. Overall, while Zakynthos may be a bit pricey, with some careful planning, it can still be a great destination for travelers on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Zakynthos

The most popular areas to find accommodation in Zakynthos are in the resort towns of Laganas, Tsilivi, and Argassi. Laganas is known for its nightlife and party atmosphere, while Tsilivi and Argassi offer a more relaxed and family-friendly setting. Other areas that are worth considering include Kalamaki, Alykes, and Vasilikos. Kalamaki is known for its long sandy beach and proximity to the Zakynthos Marine National Park, Alykes offers a more traditional Greek feel with its quaint village and sandy beach, while Vasilikos offers a secluded and quiet atmosphere with access to some of the island's best beaches.
You can check hotel prices at Zakynthos here:
Booking.com

Is Zakynthos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Zakynthos is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to practice common-sense safety measures while traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it's important to keep your valuables secure. It's also recommended to follow any local safety advice and be respectful of the local culture.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Zakynthos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Zakynthos the most?

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a beautiful Greek island that offers something for every type of traveler and is a great destination for couples, families, and young people looking for fun.
Couples will enjoy the island's romantic ambiance, beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and delicious seafood dining options. There are many charming villages to explore, such as the picturesque town of Keri, where couples can stroll hand in hand through the narrow streets lined with traditional tavernas and small shops.
Families will find plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, such as visiting the famous Shipwreck Beach, taking a boat tour of the island's coastline, or exploring the Blue Caves. There are also many family-friendly beaches with calm waters, such as Gerakas Beach or Banana Beach.
Young people looking for fun will appreciate the lively nightlife that Zakynthos has to offer, where they can dance the night away in one of the many bars and clubs in the bustling town of Laganas.
Overall, Zakynthos is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests and offers something for everyone.

How to get around Zakynthos

The most popular and convenient mode of transportation to get around Zakynthos is by renting a car or a scooter. There are also taxis available, but they can be quite expensive. Public transportation, such as buses, is also available but can have limited routes and schedules. Another option is to join organized tours, which will take you to the main sights and attractions on the island.

What to see around Zakynthos

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Zakynthos: 1. Navagio Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, known for its crystal clear waters and the shipwreck that sits on the shore.
2. Olympia: The ancient site of the first Olympic Games, where you can see the ruins of temples, stadiums, and more.
3. Kefalonia: A nearby island that is about an hour away by ferry. You can visit the Melissani Cave, Assos Village, and Myrtos Beach.
4. Blue Caves: Located on the northern tip of the island, you can take a boat tour to see the stunning blue waters and the unique rock formations.
5. St. Dionisios Monastery: This is a beautiful Orthodox Monastery that houses beautiful 18th-century frescoes and a lot of religious treasures.
6. Mount Skopos: A great hiking spot with panoramic views of Zakynthos.
7. Laganas: This is the most popular tourist resort on Zakynthos, known for its lively nightlife and long sandy beaches.
8. Solomos and Kalvos Museum: This museum showcases some of the most important works of Greece’s national poets, Solomos and Kalvos.
9. Gerakas Beach: A protected breeding beach for loggerhead turtles with beautiful golden sand and crystal-clear water.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Greece you can click here.

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