There are such a lot of issues to do in Zakynthos (Zante) and I’m going to share our high 15 favourites on this publish. This island is unquestionably among the finest locations to go to in Greece.
Once you hear the identify Greece, it possible conjures up pictures 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.
☞ In search of Seashores? Try our record of the Prime 15 Seashores In Zakynthos You Received’t Need To Miss.
Many travellers from the UK and components of Europe have already found this Ionian magnificence, which lies west of mainland Greece, however for North Individuals and travellers from different components of the world, this might be the primary time you’re listening to about it.
Word: this publish was final up to date in 2023. We maintain all of our Greece content material as up-to-date as doable. 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 most effective seashores in Greece (particularly Navagio Seaside), Zakynthos rapidly turned one among our favorite islands within the nation.
Sufficiently small to simply navigate by automotive, however massive sufficient to supply a range of landscapes, villages and coastlines, this Ionian island ought to characteristic 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 recognized for.
You received’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” provides the right enjoyable vacation spot for these within the know.
💡Bonus Tip: automotive rental in Greece could be very cheap and undoubtedly value it during your keep. It’ll provide the freedom to see the entire sights on this publish. Try Uncover Automobiles to seek for the most effective deal.
Word: 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 website in the whole nation. This beautiful stretch of white sand and impossibly blue water is protected by a pure harbour 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 huge ship resting on the sand undoubtedly provides to the appeal and attract of this spectacular sight.
There are two methods to see Navagio Seaside, 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 should take a ship tour.
These may be employed from totally different cities across the island. If in case you have a automotive, then your least expensive possibility can be to drive to the closest cove to Navagio Seaside 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 individual. Be taught extra in regards to the tour right here.
To see it from above (extremely really useful), you’ll should 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 may drive proper up, get out of your automotive, snap just a few images after which drive off.
Please word: The very best views are from the cliffs to the appropriate of the platform and you may even see some individuals 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
Indisputably, 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 the direction of the farmlands under and the Ionian Sea within the distance.
The meals right here is implausible, 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, it’s important 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 possible get a free dessert, so chances are you’ll not need to order one!
We did a whole assessment of Lofos Restaurant so in the event you’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 Seaside
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 odor).
Try our full assessment of Xigia Seaside together with find out how to get there, close by eating places and extra.
4. Snorkel / Dive (With Turtles)
The reefs and seashores round Zakynthos are dwelling to one of many oldest lifeforms on Earth, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. This lovely creature may be noticed within the Zakynthos Marine Park or coming ashore to put eggs within the night on many bays (even common ones) round Zakynthos and surrounding islands.
You’re more likely to spot a turtle in some unspecified time in the future throughout your journey to Zakynthos, however to raised your possibilities it’s best to undoubtedly hop on a ship and go discover them.
Be sure you do your analysis and go along with an organization that practices protected snorkelling with animals.
For those who see 10 boats pulling up alongside one turtle with a whole lot of individuals leaping in directly, it’s best to inform the information that you just don’t approve. This stresses out the animals and may trigger hurt to the ecosystems.
You received’t simply see Turtles within the Ionian Sea both! There are many comfortable and onerous corals, in addition to fish and crustacean life that discover a dwelling within the rocky underwater topography close to Zakynthos.
You’ll be able to be a part of diving and snorkelling excursions with many clothes shops 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
For those who 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 likely 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 citadel right here isn’t as spectacular as that of Assos Fort in Kefalonia, however it’s nonetheless value a go to in the event you’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.
Right now it stands as a testomony to the previous glory of Zakynthos as a Venetian navy stronghold and guests can stroll by an outdated jail, gunpowder rooms, bastions, church buildings and an outdated sewage system.
For those who plan to go to the citadel, take a look at our publish about Visiting The Venetian Fort in Zakynthos Greece to get an thought of what to anticipate.
6. Alykes Seaside: Certainly one of The Most Chilled Out Issues To Do in Zakynthos
This was our favorite seashore on the island, partly as a result of it was one of the vital lovely stretches of powdery golden sand that we discovered, but additionally as a result of it was the place we discovered an incredible 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 free of charge after we ordered from the restaurant or bar.
The view out in the direction of the sunshine blue water of the Ionian Sea is to die for and the water is deep sufficient to swim just some meters from shore. It’s actually onerous to beat a seashore like this!
Try our complete publish all about Alykes Seaside to search out out extra about the most effective eating places and bars, the place to remain and what to do round Alykes Seaside.
7. The Cliffs of Keri
This place on the southwest finish of the island is all in regards to 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 (typically) turtles down under.
There’s additionally a stunning lighthouse close by and the city of Keri itself can be value a go to.
The Keri Cliffs are additionally among the finest sundown spots on the island as (on a transparent day) you may watch the huge orb kiss the ocean on the horizon because the sky lights up with good oranges, reds, and purples.
You can too be a part of a ship tour that takes within the Keri Caves in addition to turtle recognizing.
Try our publish all in regards to 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 – Certainly 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 non-public boat journey with a driver takes off from Porto Vromi and heads to Hidden Treasure Cave for swimming, adopted by Sfogio Seaside, White Seaside, 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. For those who’re snug driving a ship, another choice is to hire your individual boat and drive across the shoreline your self!
Attributable to heavy winds and excessive waves, you in all probability received’t be capable of take the boat to Shipwreck Cove, however you may rip round to totally different bays, anchor up and swim with no person else round. That is undoubtedly among the finest issues to do in Zakynthos.
We ended up doing this on Corfu Island and it was truthfully among the finest days we had in Greece. For those who plan to do that in Zakynthos, take a look at this firm.
For those who plan to convey snacks and refreshments on the boat with you, then you definately may as effectively decide 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 among these small (40HP+) boats, however it’s really useful that you’ve got a little bit of expertise driving boats, although it’s not vital as a result of the captains on the store will present you the ropes.
These boats are the right dimension for two – 4 individuals and in the event you break up the price, it’s extraordinarily inexpensive, particularly contemplating Jetskis and Sea-doos often hire for $50 / hour in different components of the world!
For those who decide 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 shocking seashore. We actually can’t suggest this sufficient! Click on right here for a high firm, or click on right here to take a look at the boat choices with Luxurious Island Occasions.
9. Gerakas Seaside – The Most Enjoyable Factor To Do in Zante
Pronounced (Yer-ak-as), this lovely stretch of sand within the far southeastern finish of the island is the right place to calm down for the afternoon.
The sand here’s a reddish color and so are the encircling cliffs, however the water is crystal clear and it’s comparatively quiet right here.
You’ll be able to hire 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 on occasion).
In order for you any snacks or refreshments, it’s greatest to purchase them from the outlets on the high of the hill earlier than strolling down the steps to the seashore.
The water right here could be very shallow however will get deep sufficient to swim about 100 meters out from shore. Chillin’ out on seashore chairs right here is likely one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Zante.
We wrote a publish all about Gerakas Seaside, find out how to get there, the place to remain, the most effective eating places within the space and so forth., so in the event you’re planning on going to this pretty seashore throughout your keep in Zakynthos, ensure you examine that out.
10. Porto Limnionas
That is undoubtedly one of the vital scenic coves on the island, and on an island blessed with numerous picturesque bays, that’s actually saying lots.
Limnionas is a deep pure harbour surrounded by multicoloured cliffs and among the clearest water you’ll see. The inexperienced rocks replicate the solar from under and light-weight the ocean up like an aquarium.
You’ll be able to calm down on the Limnionas Tavern and select from dozens of sunbeds (€4 every) hanging over the sting of the rocks wanting down in the 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 excellent, so it’s an incredible place for a drink and to calm down within the solar.
Try our publish all about visiting Porto Limnionas for extra info on the most effective eating places close by, find out 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 appeal 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 good looking seafront promenade that faces a pure harbour crammed 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 may 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.
Try our Information to Zante City which incorporates every little thing it is advisable to learn about visiting this lovely Ionian Capital together with the place to remain, the most effective eating places, the most effective close by seashores and find out 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 snorkelling and wonderful images. The water right here takes on a greenish-blue hue and there’s a good (however overpriced) seashore bar right here referred to as Porto Azzuro Seaside Bar.
You’ll should pay for sunbeds (€5 / day) even in the event you select to eat on the bar. Deliver a towel and lay it within the sand free of charge and revel in a soothing afternoon.
For those who order meals, you may sit on the eating tables free of charge within the restaurant and look out on the beautiful 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 find out how to get right here, the place to eat, the most effective time to go to the seashore and extra.
13. Banana Seaside
One other lengthy stretch of golden sand, just some hundred meters south of Porto Azurro, Banana Seaside has a greater (and extra inexpensive) seashore bar on a hill overlooking the bay.
The seashore itself won’t be as scenic as Porto Azurro on a transparent day, however the sand right here is comfortable and there are sunbeds for hire as effectively.
There’s a free shuttle bus from the city of Argassi to Banana Seaside, leaving the city at 10:45 am and returning at 4:00 pm. Try our publish all about Banana Seaside together with the most effective locations to remain, the most effective eating places, find out how 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 Seaside. 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 dwelling about.
For us, it was the setting of this tiny, family-run tavern, among the finest on the island, that made Psarou value lingering for. The meals is nice, the costs are first rate and the service is great.
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 wonderful. Sundown dinner right here is likely 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.
For those who’re heading this fashion on the island, take a look at our publish all about Psarou which included the most effective resorts, greatest eating places close by, issues to do and extra.
15. Low cost Cocktails at Tsilivi Seaside
Tsilivi Seaside is an extended and beautiful stretch of sand with a variety of seashore bars spilling out in the 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!
For those who’re questioning what to do in Zakynthos, head to this seashore for a day of leisure, 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 Seaside which incorporates the most effective locations to eat and drink in addition to another traveller ideas.
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 among the greatest on the planet. So, why not discover ways to make among the unbelievable dishes throughout your journey to Zakynthos?!
This extremely rated, inexpensive cooking class teaches you find out how to make a frappe (iced espresso) or Greek espresso, Stiffado, varied facet dishes together with spinach and feta pie, and a masterclass demonstration on find out how 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 good looking shaded backyard to benefit from the meal, together with some dialog along with your host and different visitors.
Studying find out how to make Greek meals is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos for foodies. Discover out extra about this enjoyable class, right here.
Extra About Zakynthos (Zante)
☞ Click on right here to see really useful excursions accessible on Zakynthos
The place To Keep on Zakynthos Island
It’s all about low cost flats in Zakynthos. We had a good looking, 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. 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 favourites:
Getting Round Zakynthos
As I discussed earlier, it’s important that you just hire a automotive whilst you’re on Zakynthos Island in the event you hope to see the entire sights on this article.
We rented a automotive and opted out of the prolonged insurance coverage, which meant that the automotive price us simply round $20 per day (within the shoulder season).
You’ll be able to take minibusses to some components of the island, however you’ll have to attend on the highway for them to return, they usually don’t go in all places.
For those who’re taking just a few buses every single day, the prices add up in any case. Even in the event you’re on a finances, we suggest splurging for a rental automotive on the entire Greek islands.
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 accessible, and whereas there’s not as a lot historical past and native tradition as the opposite Ionian Islands, it nonetheless has lots to supply guests, particularly these seeking to laze on lovely seashores and eat scrumptious Greek meals.
It is probably not a historical past buff’s paradise, however there are a lot of issues to do and it’s the right vacation spot for these seeking to calm down and soak within the solar.
READ MORE:
Try 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 implausible expertise 😀
