Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a beautiful island located in the Ionian Sea. The island of Zakynthos boasts beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, delicious olive oil and abundant marine life.
There are also several interesting monasteries and churches to visit. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation in Greece, Zakynthos is definitely worth considering. Find out what are the best things to do in Zakynthos Greece in this article.
Where is Zakynthos?
Zakynthos is an island situated off the west coast of Greece. It is the southernmost of the Ionian Islands.
Zakynthos is about 40 kilometers long and 20 kilometers wide, with a coastline of about 123 kilometers. The third largest Ionian island, it is mostly mountainous, with several peaks over 500 meters.
The highest point is Mount Vrachionas at 756 meters. Zakynthos has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
The island receives an average of about 995 millimeters of rainfall per year. Zakynthos is home to a number of endangered species, including the loggerhead turtle and the Mediterranean monk seal.
Zakynthos has a population of about 41,000 people. The capital of Zakynthos is Zakynthos Town.
History of Zakynthos
The island’s name is thought to come from Zakynthos, the son of legendary Trojan chief Dardanos. Zakynthos was inhabited since at least the Paelolithic Age.
It was conquered by the Macedonians in the third century BC and later became part of the Roman Empire.
The island was subsequently ruled by the Byzantines, then by the Ottoman empire and then by the Venetians from 1482 to 1797. The Venetians nicknamed Zakynthos the Flower of the Levant.
The island then passed under French and British rule before becoming part of Greece in 1864. During World War II, the mayor and bishop hid the Jewish people, and were both recognized as Righteous among the Nations.
Best Things to Do in Zakynthos Greece
There are many things to do on Zakynthos, but we have narrowed it down to our 9 favorites! From exploring the stunning Navagio Beach to swimming in the Blue Caves, here are the top things to do in Zakynthos island.
1. Navagio Beach
Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Navagio Beach, is one of the most popular things to do in Zakynthos. The beach is located on the northwest coast of the island.
It is only accessible by boat and is famous for its shipwreck and clear blue waters. The MV Panagiotis, which was thought to be smuggling contraband, ran aground in 1980 and was abandoned by the crew.
While some people see the shipwreck as an eyesore, others view it as an essential part of Zakynthos’ history and charm. Visitors to Zakynthos can take a boat tour to Navagio Beach where they can see the MV Panagiotis up close.
2. Blue Caves
The Blue Caves are another popular tourist destination on Zakynthos. The caves are located on the northwest coast of the island and are best visited by boat. The main attraction here is the incredible blue water.
In fact, the Blue Caves get their name from the deep blue color of the water, which is caused by the sunlight reflecting off the limestone walls. Visitors can take a boat trip to the caves and swim in the clear blue water nearby.
You are not allowed to swim inside the Blue Caves themselves. It can get quite busy here, so come early or take a private boat tour for a unique experience.
3. Zakynthos Town
Also known as Zante Town, this is the capital of Zakynthos. The town has many beautiful churches, such as the Holy Church of Saint Dionysios, which is the largest church on Zakynthos and Faneromenis Church.
Solomos Square is one of the most popular meeting places on the island. Named after Dionysios Solomos, the national poet of Greece, the square is home to the Post Byzantine Museum, which has an impressive collection of art. San Marco Square nearby is a great place for dining, with a number of cafes and bars.
One of the best places to have a drink in Zakynthos Town is at Madisons on Lomvardou 36 overlooking the bay.
4. Porto Limnionas Beach
Located on the west coast of Zakynthos, Porto Limnionas Beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling. This secluded cove is best accessed by boat. It is six kilometers from the mountain village of Agios Leon.
Porto Limnionas is known for its turquoise waters and stunning cliffs. There is a tavern with a few sun loungers located near the beach.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Zakynthos, Porto Limnionas Beach is definitely worth a visit.
5. Keri Caves
The Keri Caves are a group of caves located on the southwestern coast of Zakynthos. This series of connected caves was formed by years of erosion from the waves.
The Caves of Keri are a popular tourist destination and can be accessed by boat or by swimming. They’re actually the largest sea caves in Greece.
The caves are known for their crystal clear water and their striking rock arches. With their unique geology and diverse wildlife, the Keri Caves offer an unforgettable experience for all who visit them.
6. Cameo Island
Giving definite Mamma Mia vibes, Cameo Island is located within the Marine Park of Zakynthos. Also known as Agios Sostis, it’s around an 8 minute walk from Laganas beach.
If you want to visit Cameo Island itself, the admission fee is 5 euros. This includes a photo of you at the island and a keychain with your photo on it.
The sea around Cameo Island is one of the best places on Zakynthos to spot sea turtles. Also referred to as Caretta-caretta turtles, these endangered marine reptiles are the largest hard-shelled turtles in the world.
7. Paralia Porto Vromi
Porto Vromi Beach is a long, sandy beach located on the western coast of the island of Zakynthos. It is situated between the villages of Anafonitria and Maries.
The beach is well-known for its crystal clear waters and stunning views. Porto Vromi Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, as there are plenty of sun loungers and parasols available for hire. Just bear in mind that it’s a pebbly beach, and bring water shoes for swimming.
There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby. This is also a popular departure point for Navagio Beach, with boat trips taking around 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Turtle Island
Turtle Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Zakynthos in Greece. The island gets its name from its distinctive turtle shape, as well as the loggerhead turtles that come to lay their eggs on its shores.
Also known as Marathonisi islet, this is a protected area, and visitors are not allowed to stay overnight. However, it is possible to take a glass bottom boat tour to Turtle Island.
The clear waters around Turtle Island are home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a loggerhead sea turtle!
9. Laganas Bay
Laganas Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Greek island of Zakynthos. The bay is home to the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, which is a haven for scuba divers and nature lovers alike.
The clear waters and beautiful beaches make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible underwater world. Crystal Beach is one of the most popular spots in the bay, and it’s easy to see why.
The water is crystal clear and the sand is white and powdery, making it a paradise for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. If you’re looking for a little adventure, there are plenty of scuba diving centers in the area.
The Laganas strip is home to a number of lively nightclubs and bars, popular with the 18-30s.
Where to Stay in Zakynthos
AluaSoul Zakynthos is a stylish adults only hotel with fantastic views of the Ionian Sea. There’s a spacious outdoor pool, as well as two infinity pools for those staying in the My Favorite Club part of the hotel.
It’s definitely worth booking one of these rooms as you also get access to a lovely bar, an a la carte restaurant and a separate seating area in the main buffet restaurant.
The hotel also boasts access to a beautiful bay with crystal clear water that you can swim in. We enjoyed the evening entertainment too – from Greek dancing to a screening of Mamma Mia.
The rooms are comfortable and stylish, and they come equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, AluaSoul Zakynthos is the perfect choice.
When to Visit Zakynthos
The best time to visit Zakynthos if you’re looking for a beach vacation is from early May until late September. The water is warm and the days are long during the Summer months, with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. You also have the best chance of seeing loggerhead turtles between May and October.
June, July, and August are the busiest months. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds at the top attractions, consider visiting in May or September. October is still warm enough for swimming, but you may need a light jacket for cooler evenings.
November through April is the off-season, and while you can find some great deals on accommodations, some businesses will be closed. If you do decide to visit during this time, be sure to pack your raincoat!
In Conclusion: Zakynthos, Greece Attractions
One of the most beautiful Greek islands, Zakynthos is definitely worth a visit. With its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and friendly locals, this small island packs a large punch!
