Zakynthos

Travel tips Zakynthos

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is one of Greece's most popular islands. Located in the Ionian Sea and known for the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), this island attracts thousands of sun lovers every year. But Zakynthos has much more to offer than just that world-famous beach. From idyllic coastal towns like Keri to adventurous activities on the water and atmospheric tavernas serving local food, a vacation on Zakynthos is incredibly versatile. On this page you'll find all our Zakynthos tips clearly organized: from sights and activities to hotspots and fun outings at sea. Get inspired and get the most out of your vacation to Zakynthos!

The best zakynthos vacation deals

Going on vacation to Zakynthos? We recommend the best trips to this Greek island! From complete package tours with flight and hotel via TUI and Corendon, to charming, small-scale addresses with rental car via Eliza was Here. This way you will discover Zakynthos your way! 

Frequently asked questions about Zakynthos

Discover the crazy Greek island of Zakynthos and be amazed by the many sights to see. From secluded bays to atmospheric seaside resorts, there is plenty to experience on this Ionian island. Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about going on vacation to Zakynthos.

Zakynthos is an island in the Ionian Sea and belongs to the Ionian Islands, an archipelago on the west coast of Greece. From some parts of the island you can see the neighboring island of Kefalonia and mainland Greece.

The fastest and most common way to travel to Zakynthos is by air. From the Netherlands during the summer period, there are direct flights from Amsterdam, Eindhoven and Groningen airports.

A popular means of transportation between the Greek islands, as well as between the islands and the mainland, is the ferry. There are several ferry companies in Greece, so it is best to compare times and fares at Ferryhopper.

The best period to visit Zakynthos is from May through September. These are the months when it is warm and sunny on Zakynthos.

  • Summer season (June - August): this is the busiest period in Zakynthos because of the warm weather and school vacations.
  • Early and late season (May, September and October): in our opinion, this is the best time to visit Zakynthos. The weather is still pleasant, but the island is a lot less crowded.

You will find several popular sights on Zakynthos that are worth visiting. These are the highlights of the island:

  • Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach): with its white sandy beach, turquoise sea water and the abandoned shipwreck lying on the beach, this location attracts many visitors. It is an absolute must-see on Zakynthos;
  • Blue Caves: these are spectacular caves found on the north coast of the island;
  • Marathonisi Island (Turtle Island): this is a small island shaped like a turtle and is also a nesting site for the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles;
  • Zakynthos Town: the island's capital is a lively place with charming streets, squares, traditional taverns and historic buildings;
  • Keri Lighthouse: a restaurant located on the southwest coast of Zakynthos, offering stunning views of the coastline and sea.

There are a number of cool activities you can do to make your time on the island even more fun and adventurous:

  • Boat trip: taking a boat trip along the insane coastline of Zakynthos is one of our favorite activities and an absolute must do;
  • Water sports: if you like water sports there are plenty of activities you can do, namely jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling;
  • Diving: Zakynthos has beautiful diving sites with clear waters and interesting underwater landscapes. You can participate in diving excursions to explore marine life, such as colorful fish, corals and possibly even turtles;
  • Hiking: there are several routes and trails to follow, such as those along the coast, through olive groves and to scenic viewpoints. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the island.

There are several resorts and villages on Zakynthos where you can stay. Some popular areas on the island are:

  • Laganas: this is a bustling resort in the south of Zakynthos and is known for its lively nightlife. It has a long sandy beach and an array of bars, clubs, restaurants and stores. If you like a lively atmosphere and entertainment, Laganas is a good choice;
  • Zakynthos Town: offers a mix of history, culture and fun hotspots. Here you will find narrow streets, traditional buildings, stores, restaurants and bars. It is a great place to experience the local atmosphere and explore the city's sights;
  • Tsilivi: is a popular resort in northeastern Zakynthos with a long sandy beach and nice restaurants, bars and stores. Tsilivi is a family-friendly destination and also offers some water sports opportunities;
  • Vassilikos: is a quiet and green region in the southeastern part of Zakynthos. It is perfect for nature lovers and offers beautiful beaches, such as Banana Beach and Porto Zoro.

We also encourage you to read our article here: where to stay on Zakynthos? In it, we also share our favorite hotels by destination.

More gems in Greece

Greece is the ideal vacation country for an unforgettable sun vacation. And Zakynthos is a very good example! Think idyllic beaches, picturesque villages, impressive nature and warm Greek hospitality. Are you curious about more Greek gems? Get inspired by our tips for other beautiful destinations in Greece!