There are such a lot of issues to do in Zakynthos (Zante) and I’m going to share our prime 15 favorites on this put up. This island is unquestionably among the best locations to go to in Greece.
Whenever you hear the title Greece, it probably conjures up photos 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.
☞ Searching for Seashores? Take a look at our listing of the High 15 Seashores In Zakynthos You Received’t Need To Miss.
Many vacationers from the UK and components of Europe have already found this Ionian magnificence, which lies west of mainland Greece, however for North Individuals and vacationers from different components of the world, this might be the primary time you’re listening to about it.
Be aware: this put up was final up to date in 2023. We preserve all of our Greece content material as up-to-date as potential. 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 shortly grew to become one in all 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 most 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” gives the right stress-free vacation spot for these within the know.
💡Bonus Tip: automotive rental in Zakynthos is reasonably priced and positively value it throughout your keep. We had a rental throughout 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 put up. Take a look at Uncover Automobiles to seek for the most effective deal.
Be aware: 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 seaside 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 positively provides to the attraction 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 aren’t any roads main on to the sand, so to swim within the water and see the shipwreck up shut, you’ll need to take a ship tour.
These could be employed from completely different cities across the island. If in case you have a automotive, then your least expensive possibility will likely 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 may take a ship tour to Shipwreck Cove for round $30 per particular person. Study extra concerning the tour right here.
To see it from above (extremely beneficial), you’ll need to 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 all over the place 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 may drive proper up, get out of your automotive, snap a number of photographs after which drive off.
Please be aware: The most effective views are from the cliffs to the best of the platform and you might even see some folks clambering alongside them to take the right selfie. Vacationers have just lately died falling off of those rocks and it’s not beneficial to enterprise past the platform. These cliffs are over 200 meters excessive and a slip is certain to be deadly. Keep on the platform.
2. Sundown Dinner & Drinks at Lofos Restaurant
Indubitably, this small, Greek-run restaurant has the most effective views of Zakynthos’ rugged inside. Decide a desk alongside the deck and peer over the cliff down in direction of the farmlands under and the Ionian Sea within the distance.
The meals right here is improbable, 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.
Often, at a spot like this, you need to pay further for the meals as a result of the view is so good, however that’s not the case at Lofos. You’ll additionally probably get a free dessert, so it’s possible you’ll not need to order one!
We did a complete evaluate of Lofos Restaurant so if you happen to’re pondering of heading there for dinner or late afternoon drinks, be 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 seaside 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 scorching spring right here (which explains the unusual odor).
Take a look at our full evaluate of Xigia Seashore together with the way 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 could 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 in some unspecified time in the future throughout your journey to Zakynthos, however to higher your probabilities it’s best to positively hop on a ship and go discover them.
Be sure you do your analysis and go along with an organization that practices protected snorkeling with animals.
When you see 10 boats pulling up alongside one turtle with a whole lot of individuals leaping in without delay, it’s 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 gentle and onerous corals, in addition to fish and crustacean life that discover a house within the rocky underwater topography close to Zakynthos.
You possibly can be part of diving and snorkeling excursions with many clothing stores on the island. Most cost round €50 for one dive with tools and round €30 per particular person for a full-day snorkel journey with tools rent. You possibly can normally get reductions for big teams or for a number of journeys.
5. Go to The Venetian Citadel
When you can peel your self away from the seaside for a number of hours, it’s possible you’ll need to take into account visiting the outdated ruins of the Venetian Citadel. A go to right here is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos city.
The Ionian Islands had been occupied by the Turks, French, British, Venetians, and Russians at one time, however the Venetians left behind among the most imposing websites within the type of fortresses on Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Corfu.
The fort right here isn’t as spectacular as that of Assos Citadel in Kefalonia, nevertheless it’s nonetheless value a go to if you happen to’re already close to Zante City.
The precise date of its development continues to be unknown, nevertheless it was destroyed by the invading Turks in 1480, after which restored in 1515.
As we speak it stands as a testomony to the previous glory of Zakynthos as a Venetian army stronghold and guests can stroll by way of an outdated jail, gunpowder rooms, bastions, church buildings and an outdated sewage system.
When you plan to go to the fort, take a look at our put up about Visiting The Venetian Citadel in Zakynthos Greece to get an concept of what to anticipate.
6. Alykes Seashore: One among The Most Chilled Out Issues To Do in Zakynthos
This was our favourite seaside on the island, partly as a result of it was some of the stunning stretches of powdery golden sand that we discovered, but additionally as a result of it was the place we discovered an awesome seaside bar, Porto Paradiso.
This place had scrumptious meals (with a number of Greek choices), wonderful service and low cost beers and cocktails, plus they allow us to sit on the seaside chairs without spending a dime after 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 onerous to beat a seaside like this!
Take a look at our total put up all about Alykes Seashore to search out out extra about the most effective 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 possibly can 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 under.
There’s additionally a beautiful lighthouse close by and the city of Keri itself can also be value a go to.
The Keri Cliffs are additionally among the best sundown spots on the island as (on a transparent day) you may watch the large orb kiss the ocean on the horizon because the sky lights up with good oranges, reds, and purples.
You too can be part of a ship tour that takes within the Keri Caves in addition to turtle recognizing.
Take a look at our put up all concerning the village of Keri Zakynthos which incorporates the most effective 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 – One among The Coolest Issues To Do in Zakynthos
We did a non-public boat tour (with a captain) across the island and it was plenty of enjoyable! This non-public 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 may ask your captain to cease wherever you need. When you’re comfy driving a ship, another choice is to hire your individual boat and drive across the shoreline your self!
On account of heavy winds and excessive waves, you most likely gained’t have the ability to take the boat to Shipwreck Cove, however you may rip round to completely different bays, anchor up and swim with no one else round. That is positively among the best issues to do in Zakynthos.
We ended up doing this on Corfu Island and it was truthfully among the best days we had in Greece. When you can, search on-line and skim opinions of the greatest boat rental firms in Zakynthos.
When you plan to convey 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 may have some ice-cold beers and lunch whilst you’re floating out at sea!
You don’t want a license to hire one in all these small (40HP+) boats, nevertheless it’s beneficial that you’ve got a little bit of expertise driving boats, although it’s not mandatory 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 break up the associated fee, it’s extraordinarily reasonably priced, particularly contemplating Jetskis and Sea-doos normally hire for $50 / hour in different components of the world!
When you choose up the boat from the Keri Harbour, then you may drive the boat across the south, east and west finish of the island. Be sure you cease in on Turtle Island for a swim on a surprising seaside. We actually can’t advocate 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 colour and so are the encompassing cliffs, however the water is crystal clear and it’s comparatively quiet right here.
You possibly can hire reclining seaside chairs for €4 every, however there isn’t a meals or drinks served on the seaside because it’s a marine-protected space (turtles come right here to nest on occasion).
In order for you any snacks or refreshments, it’s greatest to purchase them from the outlets on the prime of the hill earlier than strolling down the steps to the seaside.
The water right here may be very shallow however will get deep sufficient to swim about 100 meters out from shore. Chillin’ out on seaside chairs right here is without doubt one of the most stress-free issues to do in Zante.
We wrote a put up all about Gerakas Seashore, the way to get there, the place to remain, the most effective eating places within the space, and extra. When you’re planning on going to this beautiful seaside throughout your keep in Zakynthos, be sure you verify that out.
10. Porto Limnionas
That is positively some of the 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 among the clearest water you’ll see. The inexperienced rocks mirror the solar from under and light-weight the ocean up like an aquarium.
You possibly can chill out on the Limnionas Tavern and select from dozens of sunbeds (€4 every) hanging over the sting of the rocks trying down in direction of the ocean.
The tavern right here serves up moderately priced meals, chilly beer and attractive drinks. In our expertise, the meals was not that nice, however the view is great, so it’s an awesome place for a drink and to chill out within the solar.
Take a look at our put up all about visiting Porto Limnionas for extra info on the most effective eating places close by, the way to get right here, when to come back and what to anticipate.
11. Zante City
Positively not probably the most scenic metropolis in all of Greece, Zakynthos (Zante) City could not instantly attraction guests, nevertheless 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), a number of pedestrian-only streets, and a lovely seafront promenade that faces a pure harbor stuffed with parked ferries, fishing boats and sailboats.
There are a few massive open plazas and loads of outlets and markets. Most of what you’ll ever want could be discovered right here.
We didn’t hear many constructive 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 part you must learn about visiting this stunning Ionian Capital together with the place to remain, the most effective eating places, the most effective close by seashores and the way to get there and away.
12. Porto Azzuro
Yet one more breathtaking cove, Porto Azzuro is a good place to sit back out for the afternoon.
There’s a cluster of rocks within the water on the south finish of the seaside 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) seaside bar right here referred to as Porto Azzuro Seashore Bar.
You’ll need to pay for sunbeds (€5 / day) even if you happen to select to eat on the bar. Convey a towel and lay it within the sand without spending a dime and revel in a calming afternoon.
When you order meals, you may sit on the eating tables without spending a dime within the restaurant and look out on the gorgeous view over the bay, simply not the sunbeds.
For extra about visiting this beautiful cove, take a look at our Porto Azzuro Information which incorporates the way to get right here, the place to eat, the most effective time to go to the seaside 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 reasonably priced) seaside bar on a hill overlooking the bay.
The seaside itself won’t be as scenic as Porto Azurro on a transparent day, however the sand right here is gentle and there are sunbeds for hire 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 put up all about Banana Seashore together with the most effective locations to remain, the most effective eating places, the way to get right here and extra.
14. Sundown Dinner at Taverna Psarou
One other wonderful spot for a meal, Taverna Psarou is ready simply inches from the sand of Psarou Seashore. The seaside itself has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness for ten years operating, however at first look, it’s nothing to jot down house about.
For us, it was the setting of this tiny, family-run tavern, among the best on the island, that made Psarou value lingering for. The meals is sweet, the costs are first rate and the service is superb.
Because the solar dips low within the sky and the clouds gentle up, the workers 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 without doubt one of 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 put up all about Psarou which included the most effective inns, greatest eating places close by, issues to do and extra.
15. Low-cost Cocktails at Tsilivi Seashore
Tsilivi Seashore is a protracted and wonderful stretch of sand with plenty of seaside bars spilling out in direction of the water.
The seaside itself is gorgeous and that is probably the most taking place spot on the east coast. We extremely advocate chilling on the seaside chairs close to Andreolas Luxurious Suites and having some low cost (€2) cocktails from their seaside bar!
When you’re questioning what to do in Zakynthos, head to this seaside for a day of rest, swimming and cocktails.
The city of Tsilivi additionally has plenty of eating places together with a number of of our favourites. Click on Right here to learn our put up about Tsilivi Seashore which incorporates the most effective locations to eat and drink in addition to another traveler suggestions.
There’s additionally extra about this little city on the backside of this put up
16. Bonus! Cooking Class
Everyone knows that the meals in Greece is among the greatest on this planet. So, why not learn to make among the unbelievable dishes throughout your journey to Zakynthos?!
This extremely rated, reasonably priced cooking class teaches you the way to make a frappe (iced espresso) or Greek espresso, Stiffado, numerous facet dishes together with spinach and feta pie, and a masterclass demonstration on the way to make filo pastry. Plus, there’s a wine tasting!
It is a hands-on cooking expertise. After making your whole scrumptious dishes, you’ll head to a lovely shaded backyard to benefit from the meal, together with some dialog together with your host and different visitors.
Studying the way to make Greek meals is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos for foodies. Discover out extra about this enjoyable class, right here.
☞ Click on right here to see beneficial excursions obtainable on Zakynthos
The place to Keep on Zakynthos Island
It’s all about low cost flats in Zakynthos. We had a lovely, newly renovated studio with a sea and olive grove view at Katerina Rooms close to Psarou and it value us simply €20 per night time within the low season. Yow will discover a ton of different reasonably priced locations (particularly within the shoulder/low season) on Reserving.com.
Greatest Eating places on Zakynthos Island
We’ve already listed a pair on this put up, however listed here are our favorites:
Getting Round Zakynthos
As I discussed earlier, it’s important that you simply hire 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 value us round $20 per day (within the shoulder season).
You possibly can take minibusses to some components of the island, however you’ll have to attend on the highway for them to come back, they usually don’t go all over the place.
When you’re taking a number of buses each day, the prices add up in any case. Even if you happen to’re on a finances, we advocate splurging for a rental automotive on all the Greek islands. High tip: rental automobiles are less expensive if you happen to e book them for one week vs. in the future. Click on right here to seek for the most effective worth.
Issues To Do in Zakynthos: FAQs
Sure, Zakynthos city is value 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 here are golden and swimmable, making it an awesome place for a seaside vacation. Zakynthos can also be well-known for Shipwreck Cove – some of the 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 completely different seashores, exploring new coves with our rental automotive, and occurring a ship journey. There’s tons to see and do in Zakynthos to maintain you busy.
With simply in the future in Zakynthos, I like to recommend visiting Shipwreck Cove (Navagio seaside) 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. Among 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 avenue, squares and lots of quiet streets. Nevertheless, if you wish to discover additional (and it’s best to!), it’s not walkable and also you’ll must take transportation. Renting a automotive is the most suitable 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 a whole lot of low cost flats 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 might not be a historical past buff’s paradise, however there are a lot of 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 improbable expertise 😀
