travel to zakynthos

Zakynthos Greece Travel Guide & How To Visit

The island of Zakynthos in Greece has become famous for its picturesque shipwreck beach , but there are also lots of other things to do and see on this scenic island in the Ionian Sea.

Zakynthos features steep limestone cliffs, white pebble beaches, and some of the bluest water you’ll ever see in your life. You can explore the sights on this island by boat or by land, and it’s relatively easy to get to Zakynthos from Athens.

To be fair, this island has become a very popular summer destination in Greece nowadays, so you won’t escape the tourists, but it’s still worth a visit for the bucket list sights and photo ops.

This travel blog will explain what to do in Zakynthos, how to get there, where to stay, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Best Zakynthos Tour Packages

The coastline of Zakynthos is full of sea caves, beaches, and other wonderful sights that can only be seen with a boat tour.

We recommend GetYourGuide for boat tours in Zakynthos! They have high rated tours for all of the best sights like Navagio Beach , Blue Caves, Turtle Island, and more. These tours usually include free hotel pickup and drop-off from most of the popular areas in Zakynthos.

We’ve used this company for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Zakynthos Island Tour

Where Is Zakynthos Island?

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is an island located in the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece. The distance from Athens to Zakynthos is only about 240 kilometers (150 miles) as the plane flies.

There are a total of seven Ionian Islands in Greece, and Zakynthos is the most famous of these, but the other nearby islands like Kefalonia are also very scenic and worth a visit if you have time.

Myzithres rocks — one of our favorite views of Zakynthos

How To Get To Zakynthos Greece

Zakynthos island can be reached by flight or ferry.

Flying to Zakynthos is the easiest, fastest, and most expensive (but recommended) way to get there. The Zakynthos airport (ZTH) is served by daily nonstop flights from Athens, as well as some international cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Warsaw.

The flight time to Zakynthos from Athens is 1 hour, and it costs anywhere from 50 to 100 Euros for a one way ticket with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express.

The best airline to use is Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) instead of Sky Express if you have a choice, but any of them are fine. Free checked baggage is usually included in the ticket prices.

Shop Now: Zakynthos flights at Skyscanner

Zakynthos Greece Island Travel Guide Zakinthos Zante Navagio Beach Shipwreck Viewpoint Drone

Drone view of Navagio point

Taking the ferry to Zakynthos from Athens is cheaper than flying, but it’s slower and a bit more complicated.

You first have to take a 4 hour bus ride from Athens to Kyllini (which costs 25 Euros), and then hop on the ferry there. The boat ride from Kyllini to Zakynthos takes around 1 hour and costs about 12 Euros.

If you’re interested in doing some island hopping in Greece and you want to see more than just Zakynthos, you can also mix up the itinerary a bit.

For example, you can fly into Zakynthos for a few days, take the ferry to Kefalonia , and then fly from Kefalonia back to Athens. That’s what we did, and it worked out great!

Zakynthos Greece Island Travel Guide Zakinthos Zante Keri Caves Arch

The coastline of Zakynthos is full of surprises

Transport: How To Get Around On Zakynthos Island

Zakynthos town proper is small enough to be walkable by foot for restaurants and most other things, but if you want to do some exploring outside of town you’ll need transport.

The main way to get around on Zakynthos island is by renting a car or ATV (4 wheeler). There are many companies offering car rentals on the island, but we recommend DiscoverCars !

There’s also an affordable bus service offered by KTEL Zakynthos , although keep in mind some of the bus routes are seasonal (summer only). Their website has a full list of prices and routes on the island.

For short distance trips near town, you can walk to beaches, shops, and such places. There’s no Uber, but you can hire a taxi or book an airport transfer .

The limestone cliffs of Zakinthos island

Driving in Zakynthos is a little stressful, but not too hard, and most of the roads are in good condition. The west side of the island is more mountainous, so you’ll occasionally have steep roads with plenty of bends, but these are usually well paved.

A few remote roads on the west side of the island may still be gravel with occasional potholes, but even those roads are quickly improving as the island becomes more accessible and popular with travelers.

The main difficulty is driving in Zante town, where there’s more traffic and the roads are narrow, with lots of cars parked on both sides. Drive slowly in town and stay alert. Once you get out of town, the roads are smooth sailing for the most part.

Greeks drive on the right side of the road, similar to the US and Canada. The locals like to drive fast, and they frequently ignore speed limits and pass on double yellow lines. Just be aware of this, and move over to let them pass.

Zakynthos Greece Island Travel Guide Zakinthos Zante Drone

The bluest water in the world!

Since the law was changed in 2021, foreign tourists from Australia, Canada, UK and the United States do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Greece anymore.

The actual text of the new law (in Greek language) can be found in Law 4850, art. 25, par. η, page 10697 , and it’s also been confirmed by the U.S. Embassy in Greece .

With that said, it still doesn’t hurt to have an IDP for Zakynthos in case there’s confusion from the authorities or your local car rental company. Many people in Greece still seem to be unaware of this change.

The coastline of Zakynthos is stunningly beautiful, and many of the best sights on the island are worth touring by boat. You can rent a boat or join a shared tour at one of the many harbors on the island, or you can book tour packages online that include free hotel pickup and drop-off.

Where To Stay In Zakynthos

Contessina Suites

Alykanas Beach Hotel

Zante Calinica Hotel

Vanessa Hotel

What To Do In Zakynthos Greece

• navagio viewpoint.

This famous shipwreck beach is what first put Zakynthos island on so many travelers’ bucket lists. It’s probably one of the most famous travel pictures in the world!

Navagio is a beautiful secluded beach surrounded by turquoise water and dramatic, winding cliffs. In the center of the beach sits a smuggler ship that ran aground during stormy weather in 1980.

If you’re mainly wanting to see the iconic postcard view and take photos of it, you can do that from a viewpoint on the cliffs high above the beach.

Zakynthos Greece Island Travel Guide Zakinthos Zante Navagio Beach Shipwreck Viewpoint

Navagio Viewpoint

You can drive to the Navagio viewpoint yourself, or book a tour package that includes the viewpoint along with several other sights in Zakynthos.

Keep in mind, it’s not possible to reach the beach itself from the viewpoint. There’s no path to go down to the beach, because the cliffs are too steep. The only way to walk on the beach is with a boat tour, and that’s explained below in more detail.

However, the viewpoint is still one of the best sights in Zakynthos, so you should definitely add it to your itinerary!

• Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon

This is a small monastery that you’ll pass on the way to the Navagio viewpoint. In fact, it’s just a 5 minute drive from the viewpoint!

The Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon was founded in the 16th century, and it’s still a functioning monastery, with monks living and working there. Remember to dress appropriately if you want to go inside, although plenty of nice pictures can be taken from outside.

It’s free to visit the monastery, and they have a little workshop where they make mosaics and other art. You can buy their wares if you want, but they aren’t pushy about it. The mosaics are very nice.

Behind the monastery, there’s a walking path that takes you to a cross with wonderful views of the Ionian Sea, and it’s also a great sunset spot.

• Navagio Beach

Even though the best pictures of Navagio shipwreck are actually taken from the steep cliffs above, it’s also fun to get in a boat and go see the beach at eye level, if you’re willing to brave the crowds.

Boat tours to Navagio Beach generally depart from the nearby harbor at Porto Vromi. You can show up there and try to arrange a boat rental on the spot, but it’s generally better to book a tour package online .

This beach gets very crowded and chaotic during the daytime, when it’s bombarded with tourists and boats. During the summer, the only time you can avoid the crowds at Navagio Beach is by arriving before 8 AM or after 6 PM.

Nevertheless, it’s still a very nice beach and the rusty shipwreck is fun to see up close!

• Hidden Treasure Cave (Maravelia)

Out of all the many wonderful caves in Zakynthos island, this was one of our favorites.

The Maravelia Cave, also known as Hidden Treasure Cave, is located on the coast near the shipwreck beach, and you can only get there by boat.

In fact, the cave is only big enough for one small boat to fit inside it at a time, and only private boat tours go to this spot. Shared tours skip it.

To go inside the cave, you’ll have to step directly off of your boat and climb up the smooth rocks that meet the water’s edge near the cave entrance.

The rocks can be slippery from sea water, so watch your step! Hidden Treasure Cave has a high ceiling with an opening at the top that pours in sunlight and makes the whole cave amazingly beautiful and photogenic.

It may not be famous just yet, but this was one of our favorite hidden spots in Zakinthos!

Book Now: Zakynthos Private Boat Tour

Maravelia Hidden Treasure Cave Zakynthos Greece Island

Hidden Treasure Cave (Maravelia)

• Myzithres Rocks

This is one of the most spectacular and underrated places in Zakynthos, with dramatic white rocks and private beaches on both sides of the rock.

The Myzithres rocks are located on the southwest corner of Zakynthos island, and you can view them from the cliffs above, or take a boat directly to them from Keri Harbor and land on the beach!

There’s a viewpoint and a restaurant on the cliffs above, called Keri Lighthouse Restaurant. It’s a little overpriced, although the views are unbeatable. Afternoon until sunset is the best time to dine there and take pictures.

You can also walk further up the road and enjoy the view of Myzithres rocks without any people, but be careful not to get too close to the edge, because the cliff may be unstable.

Book Now: Myzithres Viewpoint Tour

Myzithres Rocks

Restaurant views from above the Myzithres Rocks

• Marathonisi Island

Also known as ‘turtle island,’ Marathonisi is a small island near the south coast of Zakynthos. Part of the island is a protected breeding ground for loggerhead sea turtles.

The front side of this island has a nice beach with clear water, and the south side has a couple of caves you can enter with a small boat. It’s a fantastic island, but it’s becoming pretty crowded.

You can visit Marathonisi Island on a half day tour from Keri Harbor along with other sights such as the Keri Caves (below), or it’s also possible to take a boat taxi there from nearby places like Laganas Beach.

Book Now: Marathonisi Island & Keri Caves Tour

Marathonisi Island Drone Turtle Zakynthos Greece

Aerial view of Marathonisi (also known as Turtle Island)

Drone pic of the beach at Marathonisi

• Keri Caves

The Keri Caves are usually visited on a half day boat tour that includes Marathonisi Island (above) and sometimes the Myzithres Rocks.

Inside these caves, the water seems to glow blue, giving it a gatorade-like color that almost doesn’t look real. It’s hard to capture with a camera. Small boats can float into the caves see them up close.

There are also several pebble beaches and two rock arches on this coastline that your boat captain can drive through if he’s feeling adventurous!

Overall, the Keri Caves were one of our favorite places in southern Zakynthos.

Book Now: Keri Caves & Marathonisi Tour

Inside one of the Keri Caves

Drone pic at the Keri Caves

• Blue Caves

This is a group of small caves on the northern tip of Zakynthos island, reachable by boat from Agios Nikolaos harbor.

As you might guess from the name, these are some of the most colorful caves in Zakynthos, and little boats can pass through the caves and come out the other side. Usually you can do some swimming here too, if there’s enough time.

The Blue Caves tour is generally shorter than any of the other boat tours in Zakynthos, but it’s also cheaper, so it’s well worth it!

Book Now: Blue Caves & Navagio Tour

Small boats can pass through the Blue Caves

Incredible water color

The Blue Caves from above

• Plakaki Beach

This viewpoint is still kind of a hidden gem in Zakynthos, with amazing views of the coastline and that dark blue water the Mediterranean Sea is famous for.

Calling it a beach is kind of a stretch, but at the bottom of the cliff there’s a nice swimming spot that can be reached with a bit of short, intense hiking. The path is still unfinished rock, and there are some steep sections, so it’s not good for kids or older folks.

When the access improves, I’m sure this place will be one of the highlights of Zakynthos island. It definitely has some of our favorite views.

Plakaki Beach — rocky access, but stunning views!

• Potamitis Viewpoint

Potamitis is another viewpoint with a nice restaurant, a windmill, and easy access by road. It’s located on the north end of Zakynthos island.

There’s a photogenic winding staircase that takes you down to the seaside, where you can watch the tour boats coming and going from the nearby Blue Caves. It’s a really nice view, and there are also sunbeds if you want to stay and relax.

We had heard that the restaurant asks you to buy something before taking pictures at the viewpoint, but in our case they didn’t ask for anything. The restaurant has good ratings too, so I’m sure it’s worth a visit!

Potamitis views

• Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa

This is a medieval church that sits at the top of Skopos mountain in southeast Zante, at an elevation of 543 meters (1,782 ft). Surrounding the church are the ruins of a monastery that is even older. It’s like a trip back in time.

To reach the church you can drive or hike, but the road is rough gravel all the way to the top of the mountain. We made it there in a rental car, but it wasn’t a very comfortable drive. If you hike, bring a hat and lots of water.

If you drive, it’s best to come from the northeast side, because apparently the road from Kalamaki is worse and requires a 4×4 vehicle.

Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa

Above the church

The atmosphere at the monastery is quiet and special. If you come in the daytime, they open the doors to the main building for visitors, and the inside has nice frescoes and a guestbook.

There’s a good breeze and you have panoramic views of much of Zakynthos island, with Kefalonia visible in the distance. I’m sure it’s a great spot for sunset too, although we didn’t stay that late.

Behind the monastery, there’s a rocky summit you can climb for even better views of the whole area! The path for this climb starts on the southeast side of the rocks, and there’s a rope to help you go up.

All in all, this place is a true hidden gem in Zakinthos, and most people still don’t know about it!

A peaceful walking path at the monastery

• Pelagaki Beach

There are lots of beaches in Zakynthos, but this one stands out because of its snow white pebbles and nice clear water. It’s similar to some of the scenic beaches in Kefalonia Greece .

This is one of the quieter and less touristy beaches in Zakynthos, with no music or sunbeds, although it’s occasionally disrupted by noisy boats dropping off tourists, so that’s the only downside. At the top of the hill, there’s a small canteen selling food and drinks.

The beach itself is fantastic from above or below, and you can reach it in about 5 minutes by hiking down a steep dirt path. Even though it doesn’t have the easiest access, the beach is beautiful and well worth a visit!

Calm waters at Pelagaki Beach

• Korakonissi

This beach might be one of the most unusual locations in Zakynthos Greece.

Actually, it’s not really a beach, but more like a little rocky peninsula with a natural arch and some tide pools for swimming.

The path down to the water is rocky and a bit steep in places, so it’s not the greatest. You can go down in about 5 minutes. I wouldn’t recommend it for kids or older folks, but you can enjoy great views of Korakonissi without going all the way to the bottom.

Korakonissi

There are three places to swim: in the tide pool to the right, in the open sea to the left, or inside the cave below the arch.

It’s a spectacular location, and climbing on the rocks gives you some different views of everything. The water inside the cave is incredibly blue.

Parking is limited here, so you’ll want to arrive early if possible. The road is a bit steep and turns into gravel near the end, so depending on your vehicle, you may need to park before you reach the bottom of the road.

There is a cafe in the parking lot with nice views and reasonable prices for Greek food. Enjoy!

Inside the natural rock arch at Korakonissi

Best Zakynthos Photo Spot

There are many beautiful photo spots in Zakynthos, but I think the winner would have to be the Navagio Viewpoint , followed by the Myzithres Rocks in second place. Third place for me might be Plakaki Beach.

If you only have time for two boat tours in Zakynthos, do Navagio and the Keri Caves. These are on opposite sides of the island, so you may need two separate days to do them, but we thought the tour at Keri Caves was even better than the Blue Caves! It’s also a longer tour, so you get more time to enjoy the scenery.

For drone pilots, it’s possible to take amazing photos on the west coast of Zakynthos island, which is all lined with steep limestone cliffs.

The locals in Greece aren’t strict about drones. EU regulations on drones aren’t really enforced here, and there are lots of quiet places to fly without disturbing anyone. If in doubt, just ask before you fly.

Zakynthos Greece Island Keri Caves Drone

There are limitless photo ops along the coast of Zakynthos Greece

Best Zakynthos Beaches

To be honest, Zakynthos beaches generally aren’t as nice as the ones on say, Kefalonia island , and they’re very overrun with tourists during the summer months. For the best experience, you’ll want to arrive early and find a good parking spot before the crowds get there.

If you want sandy beaches in Zakynthos, check out Banana Beach, Porto Zorro, or Alykanas Beach. If you’re mainly wanting spectacular views, go to Porto Limnionas or Plakaki Beach. These aren’t sandy beaches, but the views are wonderful and they can still be great spots for swimming and sunbathing.

The famous Navagio Beach also has amazing views with nice sand and water, although it’s usually crowded with boats and people.

Above Pelagaki Beach

Zakynthos Island Map

Here’s a Zakynthos island map you can use to plan your trip in Greece.

You can click the icons on this map to get more info and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations may be approximate.

Attractions to visit by land are marked in blue, while harbors (and nearby attractions to reach by sea) are marked in orange.

Best Sunset Spot In Zakynthos

Zakynthos island has a long west-facing coastline, so naturally there are lots of good sunset spots to enjoy.

One of the most popular places to watch the sunset is at the Navagio Viewpoint (above the beach), where you can use a wide panoramic photo to capture the beach together with the sunset.

For a more quiet sunset, our favorite spot was the cross at the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, which is also located near the shipwreck viewpoint.

To find the cross for sunset, walk along the short path behind the monastery until you’ve gone about 150 meters down the hill. It’s a really nice spot, and you’ll most likely have it all to yourself!

Monastery Agios Georgios Krimnon Cross Sunset

Sunset at the cross behind Agios Georgios Krimnon

Sunset at Navagio viewpoint

If you want dinner in Zakinthos with an epic sunset view to end the day, check out Aeras Taverna , Porto Schiza Restaurant , Cross Taverna , or the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant .

All of these restaurants and sunset spots are located on the west side of the island, so a bit of driving is required if you’re coming from town.

There are also some tours available that will take you to one of the good sunset spots in Zakynthos and handle all of the transportation for you.

Book Now: Romantic Agalas Sunset Tour

What To Bring

Here are some packing suggestions for your trip to Zakynthos Greece.

Most of the items below can probably be found on the island in a pinch, but the quality of stuff you buy on the street won’t be guaranteed (personally, I’m not about to use a junky knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera gear).

It’s best to buy vetted products online!

Waterproof Bag: Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boats. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times!
Waterproof Phone Pouch: Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
Snorkeling Gear: Good for exploring the clear waters around Zakynthos, and sometimes you can even see turtles. Snorkels and masks can be borrowed or rented from the boat companies too, but if you plan to do multiple tours it’s better to bring your own gear.
Water Shoes: Save your feet some grief and wear water shoes! Many of the beaches in Zakynthos have rocky shorelines, so water shoes are very helpful for getting in and out of the water.

Plakaki coastline blues

Other Zakynthos Tips

Credit Cards: You can pay by credit card for most hotels, restaurants, and other things in Zakynthos, but it’s still a good idea to carry cash (in Euros). Some smaller restaurants only take cash, or the card machines may go down. If you show up at the harbor and want to book a boat tour on the spot, then they’ll ask you to pay in cash. This is part of the advantage of booking tours online, that way you can pay by credit card and save your cash for those little family owned tavernas with top notch food and low prices.
ATM: There are ATMs within reach of every corner of the island. We usually pulled 200 Euros at a time, and never had any issues. One thing to note is that the ATMs will offer you their own conversion rate (which is a really bad rate), or you can continue in Euros. Make sure you choose Euros without their silly conversion rate. This is a well known scam at ATMs in Greece, but it’s easily avoided if you know what you’re doing.
Cell Service: Phone reception is strong across most of Zakinthos island, although you may lose service in some places while driving around because of the hilly terrain of the island.

Zakynthos Greece Island Travel Guide Zakinthos Zante Keri Caves Beach

The perfect place to go for a swim

WiFi: Internet quality in Zakynthos is not the greatest, but it’s improving, especially in the main town areas. Don’t expect WiFi speeds on par with Athens (or other European countries), but it’s generally good enough for emails, browsing, and maybe a little bit of streaming.
Language: The local language in Zakynthos is Greek, of course, but almost everyone speaks and understands enough English for conversation. Lots of UK tourists visit the Ionian islands, so the locals are accustomed to speaking English with travelers.
Mosquitoes: We had very few encounters with mosquitoes in Zakynthos, and the island isn’t known to be home to the West Nile Virus, so it’s not really a significant concern here.
Water: The tap water in Zakynthos is supposed to be safe to drink, but it doesn’t taste good. It’s better to drink bottled water, which is cheap and can be found at any mini market. You can use the tap water for cooking or brushing your teeth.

Is Zakynthos Safe?

Yes, Zakynthos is a very safe place to visit!

Greece has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn’t have any issues with crime.

The locals in Zakynthos are very friendly, especially if you get out of the busy town and go to some of the quiet villages in the countryside.

Is Zakynthos Worth It?

If you still can’t make up your mind, then yes, Zakynthos is definitely worth it!

This is a beautiful Greek island with great food, people, and scenery. You can enjoy a sunset dinner by the cliffs, or explore a sea cave by boat. Famous bucket list views like Navagio Beach are also icing on the cake.

In spite of the summer tourist crowds, Zakynthos is undoubtedly one of the quintessential Greek islands in my opinion. It’s also fairly easy to reach from Athens, and the infrastructure is improving every day.

Myzithres Beach

Navagio is one of my favorite travel pictures anywhere in the world!

How Long To Stay

There are loads of good things to do in Zakynthos. The best highlights will take at least 3 days to see, but one week is more ideal.

We spent two weeks in Zakynthos, and easily could have found more activities to do if we had stayed longer.

Zakynthos Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 4-day itinerary for Zakinthos island could look like, assuming you’ve rented a car :

Day 1: Northwest Zakynthos . Visit the Navagio Beach viewpoint and see the famous shipwreck from above. Make a quick stop at the nearby monastery, and then drive to Porto Vromi, where you can take a boat to the shipwreck beach and also tour some of the nearby caves. Relax at Porto Limnionas Beach or Korakonissi, and then have dinner at San Leon Tavern or one of the other great restaurants in the area.
Day 2: North Zakynthos . Drive to Agios Nikolaos Harbor and rent a boat to go to the Blue Caves for scenery and swimming. Next, drive to the Potamitis Viewpoint and walk down the stairs by the ocean. Lastly, relax at Pelagaki Beach or Xigia Sulfur Beach.
Day 3: Southwest Zakynthos . Drive to Keri Lake Harbor, and then rent a boat to go to Marathonisi Island, Keri Caves, and Myzithres Beach. Next, drive to Plakaki Viewpoint and hike down to the beach (if you’re fit and able). Lastly, go see the Myzithres Rocks from above and enjoy the sunset at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant.
Day 4: East Zakynthos . If you’re feeling adventurous, hike or drive up the steep gravel road to Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa, and enjoy the historic buildings and panoramic views of Zakynthos island. Bring plenty of water. Afterwards, relax at Banana Beach, Porto Zorro, or one of the many other beaches in the area. If you have extra time, check out the Cameo Island Beach Bar.

I hope this sample itinerary gives you some ideas for your own trip to Zakynthos! As always, feel free to ask any questions if you have them.

Zakynthos Hotels

Best time to visit zakynthos greece.

The best time to visit Zakinthos island depends on what you’re looking for, but generally the nicest weather is from early May to late October. All of these months are mostly warm and sunny. The shoulder months in spring and autumn can be nice if you’re wanting good weather without the crowds.

The hottest months in Greece are July and August, and Zakynthos during this time has temperatures of up to 32 °C (91 °F) during the day time, and lows of 21 °C (70 °F). This can be great for swimming in a pool or lounging at the beach, although these two months can also be a a lot more busy with tourists.

Winter in Zakynthos is fairly mild, but it’s wetter, cooler, and more overcast. High temperatures are around 14 °C (57 °F), and lows are around 8 °C (46 °F). Not as many boats and tours are running at this time, but you may get a good deal on hotels and things.

Regardless of when you decide to visit Zante, you’re sure to have a memorable trip!

Colorful souvenir plates at a roadside market in Anafonitria village

More Greece Travel Guides

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Zakynthos island in Greece.

Don’t forget to check out my blog posts for Kefalonia and Santorini , two other amazing places to visit in Greece! We have more travel guides for the Greek islands coming soon.

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Instantly recognizable by its astounding luminous turquoise seas enclosed within soaring craggy bluffs, Greece’s Insta-famous Shipwreck Beach is Zakynthos’ claim to global fame. An unwavering favorite among Travel + Leisure readers, the beach, known in Greece as Navagio, frequently tops best beach lists .

Situated off the Mediterranean country’s western mainland, Zakynthos is a member of the Ionian island group, a dreamy blend of blues and greens. The seas that wash Zakynthos and its neighbors range in hue from pale aqua to teal, while the landscapes are cloaked in olive trees, numbering an estimated two million, along with pine trees, citrus orchards, and rare flowers like sea daffodils. Bougainvillea and jasmine bring vivid color and aroma to the isle which its former Venetian rulers named Fior di Levante (the flower of the East).

While Zakynthos has long been known, particularly among young British holidaymakers, as a wild party isle, many locals have worked hard over the years to shrug off this reputation. Most bars that give the island this name are limited to the southern beach town of Laganas. So, you may want to avoid this part of the island altogether.

Most visitors to Zakynthos are drawn to its diverse beaches — some sandy, others lined in fine pebbles or rocky, and caves ideal for snorkeling. The island is unique because it hosts the most important nesting ground for the endangered Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). In fact, the National Marine Park of Zakynthos was established in 1999 to safeguard this delicate habitat, particularly on beaches in the south, as well as other wildlife, including the Mediterranean monk seal. Rubys Sakis Kandilas, CEO of Explore Zakynthos and a licensed tour guide, told T+L that environmental organization volunteers work diligently to raise awareness among locals and visitors of the need to safeguard turtle nest locations.

Beyond its natural attractions, Zakynthos is evolving into an enticing culinary destination, according to Sophia Kladis, manager of Windmill Bay Hotel . From traditional family-owned tavernas sourcing organic produce from their own farm to upscale seaside restaurants reinventing recipes with deep-seated Venetian roots, there is plenty to keep foodies curious.

Rounding out the experience, Zakynthians make for the utmost hosts, going out of their way to ensure you savor every minute on this wondrous isle.

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Top 5 Can’t Miss

Capture the surreal beauty of Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach — known worldwide as one of the most beautiful in the country.
Swim in the Blue Caves and remote coves via a skippered charter or self-drive around the island.
Explore Zakynthos town.
Take a boat tour to the north or south to spot sea turtles and see coves only accessible via water.
Dine at an electricity-free taverna on Dafni Beach, where family-run restaurants serve fresh local food.

Courtesy of Lesante Cape

Olea All-Suite Hotel

A fluid free-form pool connects the 93 rooms at the minimalist, adult-focused, five-star Olea All-Suite Hotel , ensconced amid silvery olive and carob trees on a hillside in Tsilivi facing the Ionian. Organic materials such as bamboo, rattan, and oak grace the soothing indoor-outdoor living spaces that merge effortlessly. Set aside plenty of time for spa treatments featuring Babor products.

Lesante Cape

Situated in Akrotiri, this upscale seafront resort echoes classic Zakynthian architecture in the form of stone-built arches framed with white bands and terracotta-tiled rooftops. Suited to families and couples alike, Lesante Cape features 55 rooms and 10 villas dressed in neutral hues, infinity pools, five restaurants sourcing ingredients from an organic garden, a spa, and even a cultural museum showcasing the island’s heritage.

Domes Aulūs Zante

This all-inclusive five-star hotel, equally accommodating of families and couples, sits at the edge of a pine forest that opens to a sandy beachfront. Conscious of its location in Kalamaki, at a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, guests of Domes Aulūs Zante are encouraged to contribute to local sustainability initiatives.

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See Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach

You’ll never forget the first time you saw Shipwreck Beach, known as Navagio in Greek. A rusty shipwreck, now split in half, lies half-submerged in bright white sand surrounded by vertical cliffs and washed by luminous cyan seas. The views are equally awe-inspiring, whether you peer down from the top, stay within the confines of a safety platform, or take in the views from the sea. While landslides in recent years have closed off the beach to visitors, you can reach the bay by boat and swim offshore at a safe distance.

Reach Secret Beaches by Boat

Boat tours ply the northern and southern coasts and offer the opportunity to swim and snorkel in translucent waters. Those headed north pause at Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves and stop at secluded coves accessible only by sea. Those heading south visit Marathonisi (Turtle Island) in Laganas Bay, picturesque Cameo Island, and the Keri Caves. Those lucky enough may catch a glimpse of a sea turtle. Kladis recommends choosing one itinerary or spreading it over two days rather than a full-day island circumnavigation, which can be tiring. Alternatively, rent a self-drive boat or hire a skippered motorboat .

Visit the Turtle Rescue Center

At Zakynthos’ southeastern tip, you’ll find Gerakas Beach, one of the island’s most important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles ( Caretta caretta ). There, you can visit the Zante Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center , open May to October free of charge, and learn more about the endangered mammal and how to reduce your impact on their life cycle and habitat. Most importantly, you’ll find out what you should do if you see a turtle in the sea or hatchlings leaving their nest.

Courtesy of Nobelos

In Agios Nikolaos, on the northeast coast, yachties drop anchor at family-owned Nobelos , at the edge of a pine forest. Spend a day lounging on sunbeds on a petite, sandy beach, then relish stellar sea-to-fork fish, seafood, and firmly traditional Greek fare in stylish yet welcoming surroundings. Produce is sourced from the owners’ organic farm, and fish are transported via wooden caique. Bookings are recommended.

Located beside Solomos Square in Zakynthos Town, Prosilio is the island’s definitive fine dining destination. Talented young chef Kristy Karageorgou crafts whimsical dishes with distinctive Zakynthian ingredients that look almost too good to eat. Try the cuttlefish ravioli stuffed with sauteed greens (tsigareli), langoustine, and kourkoutzelia, an edible violet wildflower, or the signature pork ragu with local tavla cheese foam.

Ampelostrates

In the south, head inland to Ampelostrates in Kiliomenos village for wholesome Zakynthian dishes in an atmospheric stone-built farmhouse-turned-mezedopolio amid grape vines, lemon trees, and wandering chickens. “It’s traditional but quirky. The type of place where the owner will serve a wine they produced this year,” said Kladis. “They make pies with wild greens and kouneli ladorigano (rabbit with olive oil and oregano), one of their special dishes.”

On Dafni Beach, which falls within marine park boundaries, family-run old-school tavernas like Porto Mela are run on generators as electricity isn’t permitted. Kandilas recommends the in-house bread baked in a wood-fired oven and served with olive oil from the owner’s grove, tomato, and garlic. Stifado, a hearty rabbit stew made with onions, and ladotiri, a slightly spicy native cheese made with sheep and goat milk and matured in local olive oil, is a must-try, he added.

Right on the port in Zakynthos Town, Varkarola is not simply a taverna beloved of locals and visitors alike but “one of the last remaining families keeping Zakynthos’ Venetian kantada (serenade) tradition alive,” Kandilas said. Immerse yourself in the heartfelt song, accompanied by mandolin and acoustic guitar, as you dine on house specials, veal sofrito, and slow-roasted beer-marinated pork shank.

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Zakynthos’ warm-weather season runs from April to October, with July and August proving the busiest and hottest months of the year. In August, boat trips, restaurants, and even sun loungers on the beach need to be booked ahead, Kladis said. Toward the end of the month, a feast day celebrating the island’s patron saint can cause traffic jams on the roads leading into Zakynthos Town. Kladis recommended visiting in early June or in September. “It’s not over-crowded, it’s still warm, and there are just enough people to bring the island to life,” said Kladis. “You can see and experience everything you’d like to without having to book a week in advance.”

The quickest way to reach Zakynthos is by plane. Flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to the island take about 60 minutes and operate daily. From the mainland, ferries depart from Kyllini port in the northwestern Peloponnese four times a day in summer and take one hour and 15 minutes. Zakynthos features on cruise line itineraries, including those of Atlas Ocean Voyages, Norwegian, and Azamara.

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Zakynthos Town

Spend a day in the capital, Zakynthos Town. “Start at Zakynthos port, where you can see yachts in the harbor,” Kandilas said. Marvel at the grandeur of Agios Dionysios Church and its bell tower. Dedicated to the island’s patron saint, its Catholic architectural style contrasts with the Orthodox domed style. “Then head to Solomos Square to view the statue of poet Dionysios Solomos, who composed Greece’s national anthem. On Agios Markos Square, visit the museum dedicated to him and other eminent Zakynthians,” Kandilas said. Pore over portraits, photographs, and period furniture. Also, head to the Venetian castle ruins atop Bohali Hill for panoramic sea views.

Northern Zakynthos

Kladis recommended venturing to the island’s north by car or boat. “There are some villas and houses and a few traditional preserved buildings, but, mostly, it’s very natural,” she said. “The beaches are rockier than in the south, and the waters are deep and blue. It’s just so calming and picturesque.”

Southern Zakynthos

Heading south, you’ll encounter warmer seas and sandy beaches that shelve gradually, making them more kid-friendly. Vassilikos is home to some of the island’s best beaches, according to Kandilas. Sweeping Laganas Bay, a popular swim spot, forms part of the strictly-regulated National Marine Park of Zakynthos . This protected area is home to over 300 fauna species, including loggerhead sea turtles and Mediterranean monk seals, and more than 170 types of marine flora.

Heading inland from the southeastern seaside resort of Argassi, an essential lookout during Venetian rule, you’ll find one of Zakynthos’ two domed churches. Stroll around the ruins of the 15th-century stone-built Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery built on an ancient temple dedicated to goddess Artemis and take in Ionian views from atop Skopos mountain. Closer to the town is the 16th-century Domeneghini Tower , which is closely associated with Greece’s 1821 War of Independence.

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By Rental Car: Book a rental car in advance, particularly if visiting during summer. “It’s safest to travel by car. In summer, it’s hot, and distances are long, so you want to be comfortable,” said Kandilas.

By Taxi: Between May and October, silver taxis operate 24 hours a day on the island. Cab ranks operate at the airport, Zakynthos Town, and the port and in popular resort areas on the eastern and southern coasts. They may cost more if booked in advance or via a hotel. There are fixed fares for numerous routes. It costs around 15 euros to reach Zakynthos Town from the airport.