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There are such a lot of issues to do in Zakynthos (Zante) and I’m going to share our prime 15 favorites on this publish. This island is unquestionably among the finest locations to go to in Greece.
Whenever you hear the title Greece, it seemingly conjures up photographs of the white sand seashores of Crete, the stone pillars of the Acropolis in Athens, or the whitewashed buildings of Santorini. However, there are over 6,000 islands in Greece to select from, and Zakynthos is a small hidden gem amongst them.
☞ On the lookout for Seashores? Take a look at our listing of the Prime 15 Seashores In Zakynthos You Gained’t Need To Miss.
Many vacationers from the UK and elements of Europe have already found this Ionian magnificence, which lies west of mainland Greece, however for North People and vacationers from different elements of the world, this could possibly be the primary time you’re listening to about it.
Notice: this publish was final up to date in 2023. We hold all of our Greece content material as up-to-date as attainable. To study extra about Greece journey, take a look at our Greece Journey Information.
Blessed with a jagged shoreline, picturesque villages, a hilly inside, and some of the greatest seashores in Greece (specifically Navagio Seashore), Zakynthos rapidly turned one in every of our favourite islands within the nation.
Sufficiently small to simply navigate by automotive, however massive sufficient to supply a variety of landscapes, villages and coastlines, this Ionian island ought to function prominently in your subsequent Greek Itinerary.
☞ READ MORE: A Full Journey Information To Zakynthos Greece
Greatest Issues To Do in Zakynthos
You’ll discover that lots of the issues to do in Zakynthos are beach-related, as that is what the island is greatest identified for.
You gained’t discover the historical past of Crete, the cool structure that’s well-known on Santorini, or the tradition and cities of islands like Lesvos, Chios and Corfu, however “Zante” presents the right stress-free vacation spot for these within the know.
💡Bonus Tip: automotive rental in Zakynthos is inexpensive and undoubtedly price it in the course of your keep. We had a rental in the course of our keep and it actually made the journey to Zakynthos that rather more memorable. It’ll provide the freedom to see all the sights on this publish. Take a look at Uncover Vehicles to seek for one of the best deal.
Notice: Click on the maps to open in Google Maps
Okay, let’s begin with the principle attraction on the island and probably probably the most photographed web site in the complete nation. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and impossibly blue water is protected by a pure harbor with terrifyingly tall 200-meter-high cliffs on 3 sides.
Set smack dab in the midst of the sand is a decaying ship. A (false) rumor has it that this was a tobacco smuggler’s ship that crashed into the seashore throughout a storm, when in actuality it’s only a cargo boat that ran ashore.
Whether or not you consider the romantic story or not doesn’t matter, the large ship resting on the sand undoubtedly provides to the allure and attract of this spectacular sight.
There are two methods to see Navagio Seashore, both by sea or from the highest of the cliffs. There are not any roads main on to the sand, so to swim within the water and see the shipwreck up shut, you’ll must take a ship tour.
These will be employed from totally different cities across the island. When you have a automotive, then your most cost-effective possibility will probably be to drive to the closest cove to Navagio Seashore and hop on a ship from there.
In Porto Vromi (simply south of Navagio) you’ll be able to take a ship tour to Shipwreck Cove for round $30 per individual. Be taught extra concerning the tour right here.
To see it from above (extremely really useful), you’ll must drive your automotive to the viewing platform on the north finish of the island.
It’s very easy to get right here by automotive as there are indicators in all places and it’s well-marked on Google Maps (Click on Right here for the precise location). The car parking zone is true subsequent to the platform, so you’ll be able to drive proper up, get out of your automotive, snap just a few photographs after which drive off.
Please be aware: The very best views are from the cliffs to the appropriate of the platform and you may even see some folks clambering alongside them to take the right selfie. Vacationers have lately died falling off of those rocks and it’s not really useful to enterprise past the platform. These cliffs are over 200 meters excessive and a slip is bound to be deadly. Keep on the platform.
2. Sundown Dinner & Drinks at Lofos Restaurant
Indubitably, this small, Greek-run restaurant has one of the best views of Zakynthos’ rugged inside. Choose a desk alongside the deck and peer over the cliff down in direction of the farmlands beneath and the Ionian Sea within the distance.
The meals right here is incredible, the service is nice and it’s the right place for sundown. I like to recommend the roast lamb (€9) and the meat stew (€8). Each are completely scrumptious. Beers are round €2.5 and appetizers are simply €4 every.
Normally, at a spot like this, it’s important to pay additional for the meals as a result of the view is so good, however that’s not the case at Lofos. You’ll additionally seemingly get a free dessert, so chances are you’ll not need to order one!
We did a whole assessment of Lofos Restaurant so if you happen to’re pondering of heading there for dinner or late afternoon drinks, make sure you test it out. Discover it on the map, right here. For an additional sundown possibility, don’t miss this wonderful tour.
3. Xigia Seashore
One other extremely scenic seashore on the island of Zakynthos. This secluded cove is guarded on three sides by massive cliffs, the water is gorgeous and there’s even a sulfur sizzling spring right here (which explains the unusual scent).
Take a look at our full assessment of Xigia Seashore together with learn how to get there, close by eating places and extra.
4. Snorkel / Dive (With Turtles)
The reefs and seashores round Zakynthos are house to one of many oldest lifeforms on Earth, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. This stunning creature will be noticed within the Zakynthos Marine Park or coming ashore to put eggs within the night on many bays (even well-liked ones) round Zakynthos and surrounding islands.
You’re prone to spot a turtle sooner or later throughout your journey to Zakynthos, however to higher your probabilities it is best to undoubtedly hop on a ship and go discover them.
Be sure to do your analysis and go together with an organization that practices protected snorkeling with animals.
When you see 10 boats pulling up alongside one turtle with tons of of individuals leaping in without delay, it is best to inform the information that you simply don’t approve. This stresses out the animals and may trigger hurt to the ecosystems.
You gained’t simply see Turtles within the Ionian Sea both! There are many tender and arduous corals, in addition to fish and crustacean life that discover a house within the rocky underwater topography close to Zakynthos.
You’ll be able to be part of diving and snorkeling excursions with many clothing stores on the island. Most cost round €50 for one dive with gear and round €30 per individual for a full-day snorkel journey with gear rent. You’ll be able to often get reductions for giant teams or for a number of journeys.
5. Go to The Venetian Fort
When you can peel your self away from the seashore for just a few hours, chances are you’ll need to take into account visiting the outdated ruins of the Venetian Fort. A go to right here is among the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos city.
The Ionian Islands have been occupied by the Turks, French, British, Venetians, and Russians at one time, however the Venetians left behind a few of the most imposing websites within the type of fortresses on Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Corfu.
The fortress right here isn’t as spectacular as that of Assos Fort in Kefalonia, however it’s nonetheless price a go to if you happen to’re already close to Zante City.
The precise date of its building remains to be unknown, however it was destroyed by the invading Turks in 1480, after which restored in 1515.
In the present day it stands as a testomony to the previous glory of Zakynthos as a Venetian army stronghold and guests can stroll by means of an outdated jail, gunpowder rooms, bastions, church buildings and an outdated sewage system.
When you plan to go to the fortress, take a look at our publish about Visiting The Venetian Fort in Zakynthos Greece to get an thought of what to anticipate.
6. Alykes Seashore: Considered one of The Most Chilled Out Issues To Do in Zakynthos
This was our favourite seashore on the island, partly as a result of it was one of the crucial stunning stretches of powdery golden sand that we discovered, but additionally as a result of it was the place we discovered an ideal seashore bar, Porto Paradiso.
This place had scrumptious meals (with just a few Greek choices), wonderful service and low cost beers and cocktails, plus they allow us to sit on the seashore chairs totally free once we ordered from the restaurant or bar.
The view out in direction of the sunshine blue water of the Ionian Sea is to die for and the water is deep sufficient to swim only a few meters from shore. It’s actually arduous to beat a seashore like this!
Take a look at our total publish all about Alykes Seashore to seek out out extra about one of the best eating places and bars, the place to remain and what to do round Alykes Seashore.
7. The Cliffs of Keri
This place on the southwest finish of the island is all concerning the views. You’ll be able to park your automotive proper subsequent to the cliffs and stroll out on the rocks for beautiful views over the impossibly blue sea and (generally) turtles down beneath.
There’s additionally a beautiful lighthouse close by and the city of Keri itself can also be price a go to.
The Keri Cliffs are additionally among the finest sundown spots on the island as (on a transparent day) you’ll be able to watch the large orb kiss the ocean on the horizon because the sky lights up with good oranges, reds, and purples.
You can even be part of a ship tour that takes within the Keri Caves in addition to turtle recognizing.
Take a look at our publish all concerning the village of Keri Zakynthos which incorporates one of the best issues to do just like the Keri Lighthouse and the Keri Cliffs, in addition to locations to remain and eat in and across the city.
8. Boat Tour in Zante – Considered one of The Coolest Issues To Do in Zakynthos
We did a non-public boat tour (with a captain) across the island and it was a variety of enjoyable! This personal boat journey with a driver takes off from Porto Vromi and heads to Hidden Treasure Cave for swimming, adopted by Sfogio Seashore, White Seashore, Porto Steniti, the Secret Blue Cave, and Coronary heart Cave.
As a result of it’s a non-public journey, you’ll be able to ask your captain to cease wherever you need. When you’re snug driving a ship, another choice is to lease your personal boat and drive across the shoreline your self!
Because of heavy winds and excessive waves, you in all probability gained’t be capable to take the boat to Shipwreck Cove, however you’ll be able to rip round to totally different bays, anchor up and swim with no one else round. That is undoubtedly among the finest issues to do in Zakynthos.
We ended up doing this on Corfu Island and it was actually among the finest days we had in Greece. When you can, search on-line and browse evaluations of the greatest boat rental firms in Zakynthos.
When you plan to deliver snacks and refreshments on the boat with you, then you definitely may as effectively choose up a small foam cooler from the grocery retailer for about €10 – €15. Then you’ll be able to have some ice-cold beers and lunch whilst you’re floating out at sea!
You don’t want a license to lease one in every of these small (40HP+) boats, however it’s really useful that you’ve a little bit of expertise driving boats, although it’s not crucial as a result of the captains on the store will present you the ropes.
These boats are the right measurement for two – 4 folks and if you happen to cut up the price, it’s extraordinarily inexpensive, particularly contemplating Jetskis and Sea-doos often lease for $50 / hour in different elements of the world!
When you choose up the boat from the Keri Harbour, then you’ll be able to drive the boat across the south, east and west finish of the island. Be sure to cease in on Turtle Island for a swim on a surprising seashore. We actually can’t suggest this sufficient! Click on right here to take a look at the boat choices with Luxurious Island Occasions.
9. Gerakas Seashore – The Most Stress-free Factor To Do in Zante
Pronounced (Yer-ak-as), this stunning stretch of sand within the far southeastern finish of the island is the right place to chill out for the afternoon.
The sand here’s a reddish shade and so are the encircling cliffs, however the water is crystal clear and it’s comparatively quiet right here.
You’ll be able to lease reclining seashore chairs for €4 every, however there is no such thing as a meals or drinks served on the seashore because it’s a marine-protected space (turtles come right here to nest every so often).
If you need any snacks or refreshments, it’s greatest to purchase them from the retailers on the prime of the hill earlier than strolling down the steps to the seashore.
The water right here may be very shallow however will get deep sufficient to swim about 100 meters out from shore. Chillin’ out on seashore chairs right here is among the most stress-free issues to do in Zante.
We wrote a publish all about Gerakas Seashore, learn how to get there, the place to remain, one of the best eating places within the space, and extra. When you’re planning on going to this pretty seashore throughout your keep in Zakynthos, be sure you test that out.
10. Porto Limnionas
That is undoubtedly one of the crucial scenic coves on the island, and on an island blessed with numerous picturesque bays, that’s actually saying rather a lot.
Limnionas is a deep pure harbor surrounded by multicolored cliffs and a few of the clearest water you’ll see. The inexperienced rocks mirror the solar from beneath and lightweight the ocean up like an aquarium.
You’ll be able to chill out on the Limnionas Tavern and select from dozens of sunbeds (€4 every) hanging over the sting of the rocks wanting down in direction of the ocean.
The tavern right here serves up fairly priced meals, chilly beer and engaging drinks. In our expertise, the meals was not that nice, however the view is great, so it’s an ideal place for a drink and to chill out within the solar.
Take a look at our publish all about visiting Porto Limnionas for extra data on one of the best eating places close by, learn how to get right here, when to return and what to anticipate.
11. Zante City
Positively not probably the most scenic metropolis in all of Greece, Zakynthos (Zante) City could not instantly allure guests, however it does have its personal native flare.
There are quite a few eating places right here (take a look at Paradosiako and Yard of Style), just a few pedestrian-only streets, and a stupendous seafront promenade that faces a pure harbor crammed with parked ferries, fishing boats and sailboats.
There are a few massive open plazas and loads of retailers and markets. Most of what you’ll ever want will be discovered right here.
We didn’t hear many optimistic issues about Zante City previous to visiting, however we really actually loved strolling round this seaside capital.
Take a look at our Information to Zante City which incorporates every little thing it is advisable to find out about visiting this stunning Ionian Capital together with the place to remain, one of the best eating places, one of the best close by seashores and learn how to get there and away.
12. Porto Azzuro
Yet one more breathtaking cove, Porto Azzuro is a superb place to sit back out for the afternoon.
There’s a cluster of rocks within the water on the south finish of the seashore that makes for nice snorkeling and wonderful photographs. The water right here takes on a greenish-blue hue and there’s a good (however overpriced) seashore bar right here known as Porto Azzuro Seashore Bar.
You’ll must pay for sunbeds (€5 / day) even if you happen to select to eat on the bar. Carry a towel and lay it within the sand totally free and revel in a soothing afternoon.
When you order meals, you’ll be able to sit on the eating tables totally free within the restaurant and look out on the gorgeous view over the bay, simply not the sunbeds.
For extra about visiting this pretty cove, take a look at our Porto Azzuro Information which incorporates learn how to get right here, the place to eat, one of the best time to go to the seashore and extra.
13. Banana Seashore
One other lengthy stretch of golden sand, only a few hundred meters south of Porto Azurro, Banana Seashore has a greater (and extra inexpensive) seashore bar on a hill overlooking the bay.
The seashore itself may not be as scenic as Porto Azurro on a transparent day, however the sand right here is tender and there are sunbeds for lease as effectively.
There’s a free shuttle bus from the city of Argassi to Banana Seashore, leaving the city at 10:45 am and returning at 4:00 pm. Take a look at our publish all about Banana Seashore together with one of the best locations to remain, one of the best eating places, learn how to get right here and extra.
14. Sundown Dinner at Taverna Psarou
One other wonderful spot for a meal, Taverna Psarou is about simply inches from the sand of Psarou Seashore. The seashore itself has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness for ten years working, however at first look, it’s nothing to put in writing house about.
For us, it was the setting of this tiny, family-run tavern, among the finest on the island, that made Psarou price lingering for. The meals is sweet, the costs are respectable and the service is superb.
Because the solar dips low within the sky and the clouds gentle up, the employees gentle small candles on the tables.
Consuming with the sound of the Ionian Sea lapping up on the sand simply meters out of your desk is what makes this spot so superb. Sundown dinner right here is among the most romantic issues to do in Zakynthos.
Not many individuals come right here, so it’s a hidden gem on the island.
When you’re heading this fashion on the island, take a look at our publish all about Psarou which included one of the best lodges, greatest eating places close by, issues to do and extra.
15. Low-cost Cocktails at Tsilivi Seashore
Tsilivi Seashore is an extended and beautiful stretch of sand with a variety of seashore bars spilling out in direction of the water.
The seashore itself is gorgeous and that is probably the most taking place spot on the east coast. We extremely suggest chilling on the seashore chairs close to Andreolas Luxurious Suites and having some low cost (€2) cocktails from their seashore bar!
When you’re questioning what to do in Zakynthos, head to this seashore for a day of rest, swimming and cocktails.
The city of Tsilivi additionally has a variety of eating places together with just a few of our favourites. Click on Right here to learn our publish about Tsilivi Seashore which incorporates one of the best locations to eat and drink in addition to another traveler suggestions.
There’s additionally extra about this little city on the backside of this publish
16. Bonus! Cooking Class
Everyone knows that the meals in Greece is a few of the greatest on the earth. So, why not learn to make a few of the unimaginable dishes throughout your journey to Zakynthos?!
This extremely rated, inexpensive cooking class teaches you learn how to make a frappe (iced espresso) or Greek espresso, Stiffado, varied aspect dishes together with spinach and feta pie, and a masterclass demonstration on learn how to make filo pastry. Plus, there’s a wine tasting!
This can be a hands-on cooking expertise. After making your whole scrumptious dishes, you’ll head to a stupendous shaded backyard to benefit from the meal, together with some dialog along with your host and different friends.
Studying learn how to make Greek meals is among the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos for foodies. Discover out extra about this enjoyable class, right here.
☞ Click on right here to see really useful excursions obtainable on Zakynthos
The place to Keep on Zakynthos Island
It’s all about low cost residences in Zakynthos. We had a stupendous, newly renovated studio with a sea and olive grove view at Katerina Rooms close to Psarou and it price us simply €20 per night time within the low season. You’ll find a ton of different inexpensive locations (particularly within the shoulder/low season) on Reserving.com.
Greatest Eating places on Zakynthos Island
We’ve already listed a pair on this publish, however listed below are our favorites:
Getting Round Zakynthos
As I discussed earlier, it’s important that you simply lease a automotive whilst you’re on Zakynthos Island if you happen to hope to see all the sights on this article.
We rented a automotive and opted out of the prolonged insurance coverage, which meant that the automotive price us round $20 per day (within the shoulder season).
You’ll be able to take minibusses to some elements of the island, however you’ll have to attend on the highway for them to return, and so they don’t go in all places.
When you’re taking just a few buses day-after-day, the prices add up anyhow. Even if you happen to’re on a finances, we suggest splurging for a rental automotive on all the Greek islands. Prime tip: rental vehicles are less expensive if you happen to guide them for one week vs. sooner or later. Click on right here to seek for one of the best worth.
Issues To Do in Zakynthos: FAQs
Sure, Zakynthos city is price visiting. It’s the capital and a port city, however there are some church buildings, many picturesque squares, numerous eating places, and a reasonably seaside walkway that stretches for 1.5 kilometers.
Zakynthos is greatest identified for its stunning, sandy seashores! The seashores listed below are golden and swimmable, making it an ideal place for a seashore vacation. Zakynthos can also be well-known for Shipwreck Cove – one of the crucial picturesque locations in all of Greece.
At a minimal, plan to spend 3-5 days in Zakynthos. We stayed for 9 days and loved spending the times at totally different seashores, exploring new coves with our rental automotive, and happening a ship journey. There’s tons to see and do in Zakynthos to maintain you busy.
With simply sooner or later in Zakynthos, I like to recommend visiting Shipwreck Cove (Navagio seashore) on this highly-rated tour, and having fun with meals at Porto Paradiso. With only a day, renting a automotive will allow you to take pleasure in extra actions in Zakynthos.
Sure, the swimming in Zakynthos is superb. Many seashores in Greece are pebbly and rocky, however Zakynthos has sandy stretches of golden sand. A number of the greatest seashores in Zakynthos are Porto Azzuro, Gerakas, Banana Seashore and Tsilivi Seashore.
The city of Zakynthos (Zante City) is a walkable place with a pedestrian road, squares and lots of quiet streets. Nonetheless, if you wish to discover additional (and it is best to!), it’s not walkable and also you’ll must take transportation. Renting a automotive is the best choice.
Now You Know What To Do in Zakynthos
This island was an actual shock for us. We hadn’t even heard of it earlier than we booked our low cost flight from London and headed there for 9 days, however we liked it.
Zante has tons of of low cost residences obtainable, and whereas there’s not as a lot historical past and native tradition as the opposite Ionian Islands, it nonetheless has rather a lot to supply guests, particularly these trying to laze on stunning seashores and eat scrumptious Greek meals.
It is probably not a historical past buff’s paradise, however there are various issues to do and it’s the right vacation spot for these trying to chill out and soak within the solar.
READ MORE:
Take a look at our Zakynthos Journey Video
An enormous thank-you to Uncover Greece and Luxurious Island Occasions for placing collectively our afternoon on the ocean! Seeing the shoreline and close by islands by boat was a incredible expertise 😀
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