Destination guide

Zakynthos

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Zakynthos, also called Zante, is a green Ionian island famous for one picture: a shipwreck on a white beach beneath tall cliffs. Behind it is a wider island with sea caves, turquoise water, mountain villages and a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.

It is popular with families and young groups, with lively resorts in the south. It also has quiet villages and unspoilt coast for those who look.

How many days: 5

Five days gives you time for the main sights, a boat trip and a few beach days. A long weekend suits a quick break.

Most visitors base themselves near the town or the southern bays. Decide whether you want nightlife or peace.

What to do in Zakynthos

See Navagio beach
A cove with a shipwreck, reached only by boat. Boats run from the north, and a viewpoint on the cliff gives a view from above.
Visit the Blue Caves
Sea caves near the northern tip, where the water glows blue. Boat trips run from the north-east coast.
Take a boat around Laganas Bay
A protected marine park for loggerhead turtles. Follow the rules, keep a distance and choose a responsible operator.
Explore Zakynthos Town
A harbour town rebuilt in the Venetian style after an earthquake. A pleasant place to wander and eat.
Swim at Gerakas beach
A nesting beach, with strict rules to protect turtles. Check the opening arrangements and follow rules.
Visit the mountain villages
Stone villages in the interior, with tavernas and views over the island. A good escape from the beaches.
Drive to Keri
A quiet village on the south-west coast, with a lighthouse and cliff views. Good for sunset.
Take a day trip to Kefalonia
Ferries link the two islands, and Kefalonia has caves and famous beaches.
Visit the Shipwreck Beach viewpoint
A cliff-top platform looks down on the shipwreck and the beach. Go early or late to avoid the crowds.
See the Venetian Castle
A fortress on a hill above the town, with views over the island. A quiet and often overlooked stop.
Walk along the Zakynthos Town waterfront
Lined with cafes and the main square, the harbour front is a pleasant place to spend the evening.
Join a sunset boat trip
Boats leave in the late afternoon for sunset around the coast. A relaxing evening with a swim.

What to eat and drink

Mandolato
A nougat made with almonds and honey. A traditional sweet sold in shops.
Rabbit stifado
A slow-cooked stew of rabbit with onions and wine. A local specialty.
Local cheese and olives
Look for local feta and olive oil in markets.
Fresh fish
Grilled fish is served at harbour tavernas.
Greek salad
Tomatoes, olives, cucumber and feta with olive oil.
Local wine
The island produces its own white and red wines. Ask for a local carafe.
Pasta with local sauces
Italian influence shows in the island's pasta dishes and in fresh tomato and basil sauces.

Getting around

A hire car or scooter is useful for getting around. Roads in the mountains are narrow and winding.

Buses link the main towns and resorts. Taxis and boat tours are common.

Ferries link Zakynthos with the mainland and with Kefalonia.

Good to know

  • Summer is hot and busy. Late spring and early autumn are calmer.
  • Turtle nesting season runs through summer. Follow beach rules, especially at night.
  • Boat trips to the main sights are weather dependent. Check the forecast.
  • Cliff edges are unprotected at viewpoints. Take care.
  • Many businesses close in winter. Check before you go.
  • The island is hilly, and some tracks are rough. A small car is easier than a large one.
  • The island is very popular in July and August, and transport and restaurants are busy. Book boat trips in advance.

Where to stay in Zakynthos

6 neighbourhoods, described the way a friend would - what each is actually like, not the brochure version.

Zakynthos Town

Zakynthos Town is the island's main urban centre and ferry port, with restaurants, shops, museums and a lively waterfront. It is practical for exploring and dining, though it lacks the beach-resort atmosphere found elsewhere on the island.

Laganas

Laganas is Zakynthos' main party resort, with a long sandy beach, clubs, bars and inexpensive accommodation. It is ideal for younger groups and nightlife, but is one of the island's least suitable areas for peace and quiet.

Tsilivi

Tsilivi is a popular family resort north of Zakynthos Town, with a sandy beach, restaurants, bars and a wide choice of hotels. It offers a good balance of activity and relaxation without the intensity of Laganas.

Kalamaki

Kalamaki offers a broad sandy beach within the protected nesting area of loggerhead turtles and a more relaxed atmosphere than neighbouring Laganas. It is particularly suitable for families and couples wanting convenience without heavy nightlife.

Alykes & Alykanas

Alykes and Alykanas are neighbouring north-east coast resorts with shallow beaches, relaxed tavernas and a strong family atmosphere. They are excellent for quieter holidays, though nightlife and major sightseeing are limited.

Vasilikos

Vasilikos is a green peninsula in southern Zakynthos with some of the island's most attractive beaches, small resorts and a low-key atmosphere. It is ideal for romantic and family relaxation, but a car is useful and nightlife is minimal.

What it costs

A typical day in Zakynthos, per person, in pounds.

£179

Shoestring - hostels, street food, public transport.

£441

Comfortable - a decent hotel, restaurants, the odd taxi.

£1061

Treating yourself - the good hotel, the good tables.

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