Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is one of the most stunning places I’ve visited in Greece. Unlike other Greek islands, which are famous for their whitewashed houses and picturesque villages, Zakynthos captivates with its raw, natural beauty. The island is a paradise of secluded beaches, mysterious caves, and waters that range from sapphire to milky blue. You can spot Caretta turtles, enjoy seaside fine dining, and relax in five-star resort hotels with infinity pools that offer stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
This gem in the Ionian Sea is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters, but also for its lively nightlife.
Zakynthos is home to some of Greece’s most iconic beaches, like Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), and offers a perfect blend of relaxation, night-life, and authentic experiences. With its dramatic cliffs, lush green hills, and charming villages, Zakynthos provides a diverse and memorable holiday experience.
Where to stay in Zakynthos
When planning my trip to Zakynthos, I debated where to stay, as the island’s top attractions and most beautiful beaches are spread across different areas. I ultimately chose Tsilivi as my base, and I’m glad I did. Tsilivi offers the perfect balance of convenience, with easy access to the rest of the island, and a vibrant atmosphere with great restaurants and lively nightlife. It’s an ideal spot to return after long days at the beach while being close to everything you need for a memorable stay.
I stayed in a boutique hotel with breathtaking sea and sunrise views, with its own private beach. The serene setting made it the perfect retreat, offering a blend of luxury and tranquility. Each morning, I woke up to the sound of waves and enjoyed a peaceful start to the day. The hotel’s amenities, from its elegantly designed rooms to its attentive service, made my stay truly unforgettable.
When choosing where to stay in Zakynthos, consider also these options based on your preferences:
- Zakynthos Town offers an abundance of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. It’s a great choice if you want to be at the heart of the island’s cultural and social scene, with easy access to historical sites and vibrant local markets.
- Laganas: Renowned for its energetic nightlife, Laganas is the go-to spot for party lovers. This area is famous for its lively bars, clubs, and beach parties, making it ideal for those looking to experience Zakynthos’s nightlife to the fullest.
- Alykanas and Alykes: If you’re seeking a more peaceful and laid-back vacation, the neighboring villages of Alykanas and Alykes are perfect. These quieter areas feature beautiful beaches and a more relaxed vibe, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle. They’re ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting to unwind in a serene setting.
Discover the best hotels in Zakynthos with a simple click:
Unmissable things to do on Zakynthos
Many of Zakynthos’ most breathtaking attractions are accessible only by boat. To truly experience the island’s raw beauty, consider renting a private boat or joining a boat tour.
1. Shipwreck Beach or Navagio Beach
Shipwreck Beach, also known as Navagio Beach, is one of Zakynthos Island’s top attractions and one of the most stunning beaches in the world. Nestled in the island’s northwest corner, this iconic beach is renowned for its dramatic cliffside setting and crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by boat, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
The story behind the shipwreck adds an intriguing twist to its allure. Discovered in October 1980 by a Maritime Economic Police patrol boat, the vessel was found to be smuggling contraband cigarettes, far from the romantic tales often associated with shipwrecks.
For a different perspective, visit the Navagio Beach Official Viewpoint, which provides one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the beach. Accessible by car, it requires a short ten-minute walk along a rugged path leading to the viewpoint. This vantage point offers a spectacular overview of Shipwreck Beach and is a must-see for anyone visiting Zakynthos.
2. Marathonisi Island
Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island, is a must-visit destination located across from Limni Keri in Laganas Bay. Renowned for its crucial role in sea turtle conservation, the island is part of Zakynthos Marine Park and serves as a key nesting site for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles. In addition to Marathonisi, the area includes two smaller islets, Pontikonisia, enhancing its charm and appeal.
This picturesque island, with a perimeter of just about a mile, is accessible by boat from Limni Keri or Laganas. Besides its significance for sea turtles, Marathonisi is also a resting and breeding ground for the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus monachus.
Marathonisi Island features two stunning beaches: one with pebbles and another with pristine white sand. These serene beaches provide a perfect setting for relaxation and exploration, making Marathonisi a highlight if you visit Zakynthos.
3. Blue Caves
The north coast of Zakynthos is famous for its stunning beaches and natural attractions, with the Blue Caves being among the top highlights. Accessible only by boat, these mysterious caves are renowned for their striking blue waters, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the clear sea. The Blue Caves offer an unforgettable experience, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery.
4. Keri Caves
Located on the southern coast of Zakynthos, The Keri Caves are a remarkable natural attraction that should not be missed. Also accessible only by boat, these dramatic caves feature striking rock formations and crystal-clear waters that create a mesmerising visual experience. The caves are known for their unique geological features and the vibrant blue hues that reflect the sunlight, making them perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
5. Myzithres viewpoint and beach
Much like the famous Navagio viewpoint, Myzithres offers one of the most captivating views in Zakynthos. The Myzithres are two towering rock formations, separated by a strip of sea after an earthquake in 2018. Since then, this spot has gained popularity as one of the island’s most unique and intriguing locations.
Mysithres beach is a remote beach, being accessible only by boating is particular popular during the sunset time.
Mysithres viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective over the beach and these unique rock formations. The view can be admired from the terrace of Keri Lighthouse or you can reach the edge of the cliff with a 10-15 min walk from the lighthouse, where parking is available.
Zakynthos the best beaches accessible by car
- Kremidi Beach is a serene and relatively untouched spot, perfect for those seeking a quieter retreat. Though very small in size, its clear waters and gentle waves make it ideal for a relaxing swim. The beach’s picturesque surroundings enhance its tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from more crowded areas.
- Xigia Pelagaki Beach: Known for its unique sulfur springs, Xigia Pelagaki Beach is famous for its therapeutic waters that have a distinct, rejuvenating quality. The natural sulfur content gives the water a slightly milky appearance and is believed to have health benefits. There are several Xigia Beaches on the eastern part of Zakynthos, each located close to the other. Due to the special properties of the water, I loved these beaches most.
- Filippoi Beach is not a classic beach but rather a stunning area featuring impressive rock formations. Located about 15 minutes by car from the village of Volimes, this secluded spot offers breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters.
- Gerakas Beach is part of a protected area, being a nesting site for Caretta caretta sea turtles. It is a sandy beach, being very popular among the families.
- Marathias Beach is reached after a short 10-minute hike, which rewards you with its scenic beauty. Although the beach itself is lovely, I had noticed a peculiar petrol smell, which can be somewhat off-putting.
Where to eat in Zakynthos
Zakynthos offers a variety of dining experiences, from traditional tavernas and seaside fine dining to charming bars with stunning sea views. Since we stay in Tsilivi, which was our base town, we primarily dined at local restaurants. While exploring the island, we discovered several delightful family-owned tavernas that served home-cooked meals. One standout was Taverna Apelati, known for its traditional dishes and drinks made from their own production. I loved it for the traditional atmosphere it offers.
In Tsilivi, my favorite restaurant for chicken souvlaki and steak specialties was Palatium, there we dined frequently. I loved it for the fine dining atmosphere and for the food.
For a romantic experience, Trenta Nove Restaurant, with its garden seating, provided a lovely atmosphere. I loved it for the romantic atmosphere it offers.
For a memorable evening out, The Balcony in Tsilivi is an excellent choice, offering drinks and breathtaking sunset views.
Things to know when planning your trip
- Can you get around without a car? Zakynthos is a relatively large island, and the best way to explore it is by renting a car. This option offers the greatest flexibility for discovering the island at your own pace. ATVs are also quite popular on the island and provide a different alternative for getting around. When renting a car, consider opting for a smaller vehicle, as the roads can be narrow and often quite crowded.
- How many days in Zakynthos is enough? A 4 to 7-day trip is ideal to explore Zakynthos thoroughly. This allows enough time to visit the main attractions, relax on the beautiful beaches, and enjoy some local culture and cuisine.
- What is the best month to go to Zakynthos? The best time to visit Zakynthos is from late May to early October, with July and August being the peak tourist months. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.
Leave a Reply