Zakynthos, Greece

Essential Zakynthos Information

• Language: Greek (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Timezone: Eastern European Time (EET) UTC+2 (UTC+3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
• Best Time to Visit: Late May to early October for warm weather and open attractions
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but 5-10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants

Where to Stay in Zakynthos: Top Areas for Tourists

Laganas

Nightlife Beach Budget

Laganas is the island’s party central, known for its vibrant nightlife and long sandy beach. It’s ideal for young travelers seeking lively entertainment and budget-friendly accommodations. The area is also close to important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles.

Tsilivi

Family Beach Quiet

Tsilivi offers a perfect balance of relaxation and activities, making it ideal for families. With its beautiful Blue Flag beach, water park, and mini-golf courses, it provides entertainment for all ages while maintaining a quieter atmosphere than Laganas.

Zakynthos Town

Central Historic Shopping

The island’s capital, Zakynthos Town, is the hub of local life and culture. It offers a mix of Venetian and Greek architecture, museums, and bustling squares. Stay here for easy access to shopping, dining, and to experience authentic Greek island life.

Vasilikos

Beach Nature Quiet

Located on the southeastern peninsula, Vasilikos is known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to nature, with opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and spotting sea turtles.

Argassi

Family Central Beach

Argassi offers the best of both worlds – close proximity to Zakynthos Town and beautiful beaches. Its central location makes it easy to explore the island, while its family-friendly resorts and gentle sloping beach are perfect for a relaxed holiday.

Must-See Sights in Zakynthos

• Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach): An iconic beach with a shipwreck, surrounded by towering cliffs.
• Blue Caves: Stunning sea caves known for their vibrant blue waters, perfect for boat tours and swimming.
• Zakynthos Marine Park: Home to loggerhead sea turtles, monk seals, and diverse marine life.
• Marathonisi (Turtle Island): A small, uninhabited island shaped like a turtle, known for its pristine beaches and turtle nesting sites.
• Bochali: A hilltop village offering panoramic views of Zakynthos Town and the Ionian Sea.
• Keri Caves: Beautiful sea caves and rock formations best explored by boat or kayak.

Discover Zakynthos’ Hidden Gems

• Porto Limnionas: A picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
• Askos Stone Park: A unique wildlife sanctuary where you can interact with native animals in a natural setting.
• Aristeon Olive Press: An eco-museum offering insights into traditional olive oil production methods.
• Kambi Beach: A secluded pebble beach known for its dramatic red cliffs and stunning sunsets.
• Xigia Sulfur Beach: A small beach with sulfur springs, believed to have therapeutic properties.

Food Highlights: Must-Try Zakynthian Dishes

• Ladotyri: A local cheese preserved in olive oil, offering a unique tangy flavor.
• Zakynthian Beef Stew: A hearty dish slow-cooked with local herbs and red wine.
• Sartsa: A traditional rabbit stew cooked with onions, garlic, and local white wine.
• Fritoura: Small fish fried to perfection, typically served as a meze (appetizer).
• Mandolato: A sweet nougat made with almonds, honey, and sugar, often enjoyed as a dessert.

6 Essential Tips for Visiting Zakynthos

1. Rent a Car or Scooter: Public transport is limited, so renting a vehicle is the best way to explore the island’s hidden corners.
2. Book Navagio Beach Tours Early: Boat tours to the famous Shipwreck Beach can fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
3. Visit Inland Villages: Explore charming mountain villages like Kampi and Exo Hora for a taste of authentic island life.
4. Try Water Sports: Take advantage of the clear waters for activities like snorkeling, diving, and sea kayaking.
5. Attend a Greek Night: Experience traditional Greek music, dance, and food at a local taverna’s Greek Night event.
6. Shop at Local Markets: Visit the weekly farmers’ markets in Zakynthos Town for fresh produce and local specialties.

How to Get to Zakynthos

By Air: Zakynthos is served by one airport:

• Zakynthos International Airport “Dionysios Solomos” (ZTH): Located 4 km from Zakynthos Town, it handles both domestic and international flights. During the summer season, it receives direct charter flights from many European cities. Year-round, it offers regular connections to Athens, with flight time around 1 hour.

By Sea: If flying isn’t your preference, you can reach Zakynthos by ferry:

• Zakynthos Port: Regular ferry services connect Zakynthos to Kyllini on the Peloponnese mainland (about 1 hour journey). From Kyllini, you can easily reach Athens by bus or car (about 3.5 hours).
• There are also ferry connections to other Ionian islands like Kefalonia and Ithaca during the summer months.

Note that the nearest major international airport on the mainland is Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (AIA), which offers more extensive international connections. From Athens, you can take a domestic flight to Zakynthos or travel by bus/car to Kyllini for the ferry.