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 certainly top-of-the-line locations to go to in Greece.
Once you hear the title Greece, it possible 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 checklist of the High 15 Seashores In Zakynthos You Received’t Need To Miss.
Many travellers from the UK and elements of Europe have already found this Ionian magnificence, which lies west of mainland Greece, however for North People and travellers from different elements of the world, this may very well be the primary time you’re listening to about it.
Observe: this publish was final up to date in 2022. We hold all of our Greece content material as up-to-date as attainable. To be taught 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 perfect seashores in Greece (specifically Navagio Seaside), Zakynthos shortly turned certainly one of our favorite islands within the nation.
Sufficiently small to simply navigate by automotive, however giant 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
On this article, I’m going to checklist 15 of the perfect issues to do in Zakynthos so as to get an concept of what’s on supply right here.
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 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” affords the right stress-free vacation spot for these within the know.
Bonus Tip: automotive rental in Greece may be very cheap and positively value it throughout your keep. In case you lease for 1 week, you’ll possible pay not more than $20 / day (we paid $17) and it will provide you with the liberty to see the entire sights on this publish.
Observe: Click on the maps to open in Google Maps
1. Navagio Seaside (Shipwreck Cove)
Okay, let’s begin with the principle attraction on the island and probably essentially the most photographed website in the complete nation. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and impossibly blue water is protected by a pure harbour with terrifyingly tall 200 meter excessive cliffs on 3 sides.
Set smack dab in the course of the sand is a decaying ship. A (false) hearsay 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 Seaside, both by sea or from the highest of the cliffs. There are not 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 might be employed from completely different cities across the island. You probably have a automotive, then your most cost-effective choice 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’ll be able to take a ship tour to Shipwreck Cove for round $25 / individual. Learn more about the tour here.
To see it from above (extremely advisable), 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 all over the place and it’s well-marked on Google Maps (Click Here for the precise location). The car parking zone is correct subsequent to the platform, so you’ll be able to drive proper up, get out of your automotive, snap just a few photographs after which drive off.
Please word: The most effective views are from the cliffs to the best of the platform and you may even see some folks clambering alongside them to take the right selfie. Vacationers have not too long ago died falling off of those rocks and it’s not advisable 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
For sure, this small, Greek-run restaurant has the perfect views of Zakynthos’ rugged inside. Decide a desk alongside the deck and peer over the cliff down in the direction of the farmlands beneath 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, you need to pay additional 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 you might not need to order one!
We did a complete overview of Lofos Restaurant so for those who’re pondering of heading there for dinner or late afternoon drinks, you’ll want to test it out. Discover it on the map, here.
3. Xigia Seaside
One other extremely scenic seaside on the island of Zakynthos.
This secluded cove is guarded on three sides by giant cliffs, the water is gorgeous and there’s even a sulfur sizzling spring right here (which explains the unusual odor).
Take a look at our full overview of Xigia Seaside together with easy methods 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 stunning creature might be noticed within the Zakynthos Marine Park or coming ashore to put eggs within the night on many bays (even in style 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 raised your probabilities you must positively hop on a ship and go discover them.
Be sure you do your analysis and go together with an organization that practices secure snorkelling with animals.
In case you see 10 boats pulling up alongside one turtle with tons of of individuals leaping in without delay, you must inform the information that you simply don’t approve. This stresses out the animals and may trigger hurt to the ecosystems.
UPDATE 2022: The snorkelling journey with turtles is now not obtainable on Get Your Information however they do have another nice journeys obtainable. There’s a tour to see the turtles from a glass-bottom boat, together with a go to to the island the place the turtles lay their eggs. Click here to be taught extra in regards to the boat tour to Keri Caves and turtle recognizing.
In case you’re in Zakynthos throughout mating season (Might to October) you would possibly have the ability to see them on Laganas Seaside. Take a look at our publish all about Recognizing Sea Turtles on Turtle Island Zakynthos to be taught extra about easy methods to see these unbelievable creatures.
You gained’t simply see Turtles within the Ionian Sea both! There are many tender and onerous corals, in addition to fish and crustacean life that discover a dwelling within the rocky underwater topography close to Zakynthos.
You may be a part of diving and snorkelling excursions with many outfitters 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 may often get reductions for giant teams or for a number of journeys.
5. Go to The Venetian Fort
In case you can peel your self away from the seaside for just a few hours, you might need to take into account visiting the previous ruins of the Venetian Fort. A go to right here is among the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos city.
The Ionian Islands have been occupied by the Turks, French, British, Venetians, and Russians at one time, however the Venetians left behind a number of 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 Fort in Kefalonia, however it’s nonetheless value a go to for those who’re already close to Zante City.
The precise date of its building continues to be unknown, however it was destroyed by the invading Turks in 1480, however then restored in 1515.
In the present day it stands as a testomony to the previous glory of Zakynthos as a Venetian navy stronghold and guests can stroll via an previous jail, gun powder rooms, bastions, church buildings and an previous sewage system.
In case you plan to go to the fort, take a look at our publish about Visiting The Venetian Fort in Zakynthos Greece to get an concept of what to anticipate.
6. Alykes Seaside: One in every of The Most Chilled Out Issues To Do in Zakynthos
This was our favorite 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 our favorite seaside bar on the complete island, 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 seaside chairs free of charge once 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 seaside like this!
Take a look at our complete publish all about Alykes Seaside to seek out out extra about the perfect 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 may park your automotive proper subsequent to the cliffs and stroll out on the rocks for beautiful views out over the impossibly blue sea and (typically) turtles down beneath.
There’s additionally a stunning lighthouse close by and the city of Keri itself can also be value a go to.
The Keri Cliffs are additionally top-of-the-line sundown spots on the island as (on a transparent day) you’ll be able to watch the large orb kiss the ocean on the horizon because the sky lights up with sensible oranges, reds and purples.
You can too join a boat tour which takes within the Keri Caves in addition to turtle recognizing.
Take a look at our publish all in regards to the village of Keri Zakynthos which incorporates the perfect 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 in every of The Coolest Issues To Do in Zakynthos
We did a personal boat tour (with captain) across the island with Luxury Island Events and it was lots of enjoyable, however we suggest renting a personal boat for simply €80 / day plus gasoline (often €40) and drive across the shoreline your self!
As a consequence of heavy winds and excessive waves, you in all probability gained’t have the ability to take the boat to Shipwreck Cove, however you’ll be able to rip round to completely different bays, anchor up and swim with no one else round. That is positively top-of-the-line issues to do in Zakynthos.
We ended up doing this on Corfu Island and it was truthfully top-of-the-line days we had in Greece.
In case you plan to do that, take a look at our publish How To Hire a Boat in Zakynthos to just remember to have a fantastic expertise. We checklist all of the top-rated firms, the place to seek out the perfect costs and in addition easy methods to lease a ship with a driver if you need.
In case you plan to convey snacks and refreshments on the boat with you, you then would possibly as properly decide up a small foam cooler from the grocery retailer for about €10 – €15. Then you’ll be able to have some ice-cold beers and lunch when you’re floating out at sea!
You don’t want a license to lease certainly one of these small (40HP+) boats, however it’s advisable that you’ve 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 folks and for those who break up the price, it’s extraordinarily inexpensive, particularly contemplating Jetskis and Sea-doos often lease for $50 / hour in different elements of the world!
In case you decide up the boat from the Keri Harbour, then you’ll be able to 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 seaside.
We actually can’t suggest this sufficient! Click here to guide your personal personal boat with Luxurious Island Occasions.
9. Gerakas Seaside – The Most Enjoyable 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 loosen up for the afternoon.
The sand here’s a reddish color and so are the encompassing cliffs, however the water is crystal clear and it’s comparatively quiet right here.
You may lease reclining seaside chairs for €4 every, however there is no such thing as a meals or drinks served on the seaside because it’s a marine protected space (turtles come right here to nest sometimes).
If you would like 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 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 among the most stress-free issues to do in Zante.
We wrote a publish all about Gerakas Seaside, easy methods to get there, the place to remain, the perfect eating places within the space and so on., so for those who’re planning on going to this beautiful seaside throughout your keep in Zakynthos, be sure you test 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 quite a bit.
Limnionas is a deep pure harbour surrounded by multicoloured cliffs and a number of the clearest water you’ll see. The inexperienced rocks mirror the solar from beneath and lightweight the ocean up like an aquarium.
You may loosen up 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 moderately priced meals, chilly beer and attractive drinks. In our expertise, the meals was not that nice, however the view is excellent, so it’s a fantastic place for a drink.
Take a look at our publish all about visiting Porto Limnionas for extra info on the perfect eating places close by, easy methods to get right here, when to come back and what to anticipate.
11. Zante City
Undoubtedly not essentially the most scenic metropolis in all of Greece, Zakynthos (Zante) City could not instantly attraction guests, however it does have its personal native flare.
There are quite a few eating places right here, just a few pedestrian-only streets, and a gorgeous seafront promenade that faces a pure harbour stuffed with parked ferries, fishing boats and sailboats.
There are a few giant open plazas and loads of outlets and markets. Most of what you’ll ever want might be discovered right here.
We didn’t hear many optimistic 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 thing it’s good to learn about visiting this stunning Ionian Capital together with the place to remain, the perfect eating places, the perfect close by seashores and easy methods to get there and away.
12. Porto Azzuro
One more breathtaking cove, Porto Azzuro is a good place to relax out for the afternoon.
There’s a cluster of rocks within the water on the south finish of the seaside that makes for excellent snorkelling 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 Seaside Bar.
You’ll should pay for sunbeds (€5 / day) even for those who select to eat on the bar. Convey a towel and lay it within the sand free of charge and revel in a calming afternoon.
In case you order meals, you’ll be able to sit on the eating tables free of charge 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 easy methods to get right here, the place to eat, the perfect time to go to the seaside 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) 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 tender and there are sunbeds for lease as properly.
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.
Take a look at our publish all about Banana Seaside together with the perfect locations to remain, the perfect eating places, easy methods 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 seaside 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, top-of-the-line on the island, that made Psarou value lingering for.
The meals is sweet, the costs are first rate and the service is great.
Because the solar dips low within the sky and the clouds mild up, the workers mild 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 among the most romantic issues to do in Zakynthos.
Not many individuals come right here, so it’s a hidden gem on the island.
In case you’re heading this fashion on the island, take a look at our publish all about Psarou which included the perfect lodges, 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 lots of seaside bars spilling out in the direction of the water.
The seaside itself is gorgeous and that is essentially the most occurring spot on the east coast. We extremely suggest chilling on the seaside chairs close to Andreolas Luxurious Suites and having some low cost (€2) cocktails from their seaside bar!
In case you’re questioning what to do in Zakynthos, head to this seaside for a day of leisure, swimming and cocktails.
The city of Tsilivi additionally has lots 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 perfect locations to eat and drink in addition to another traveller suggestions.
There’s additionally extra about this beautiful little city on the backside of this publish
16. Bonus! Cooking Class
Everyone knows that the meals in Greece is a number of the greatest on the planet. So, why not learn to make a number of the unbelievable dishes throughout your journey to Zakynthos?!
This extremely rated, inexpensive cooking class teaches you easy methods to make a frappe (iced espresso) or Greek espresso, Stiffado, numerous aspect dishes together with spinach and feta pie, and a masterclass demonstration on easy methods to make filo pastry. Plus, there’s a wine tasting!
It is a hands-on cooking expertise. After making all your scrumptious dishes, you’ll head to a gorgeous shaded backyard to benefit from the meal, together with some dialog together with your host and different friends.
Studying easy methods to make Greek meals is among the greatest issues to do in Zakynthos for foodies. Discover out extra about this enjoyable class, here.
Extra About Zakynthos (Zante)
☞ Click here to see advisable excursions obtainable on Zakynthos
The place To Keep on Zakynthos Island
It’s all about low cost residences in Zakynthos. We had a gorgeous, 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 could find a ton of different inexpensive locations (particularly within the shoulder/low season) on Booking.com.
Finest Eating places on Zakynthos Island
We’ve already listed a pair on this publish, however listed below are our favourites:
- Lofos Restaurant: Scrumptious Greek meals and (apparently) good pizza. (Meso Gerakari 291 00)
- Gyroland in Tsilivi City: Low-cost Gyros and beer (Tsilivi, Zakinthos 291 00)
- Alektor in Zante City: Chilled out, quiet little Greek-owned place on the principle pedestrian road (Leof. Dimokratias, Zakinthos 291 00, Greece)
- Porto Paradiso on Alykes Seaside: Nice Greek-run seaside bar with wonderful meals, low cost drinks and free seaside chairs (Katastari 290 90, Greece)
- Zorbas in Tsilivi City: Glorious Greek meals and ambiance at this Greek / Albanian owned place (Tsilivi, Planos 291 00, Greece)
- Olive Tree in Tsilivi City: One other nice Greek (British / Greek-owned) choice with wonderful cocktails and attractive native specialties (Planos 291 00, Greece)
Getting Round Zakynthos
As I discussed earlier, it’s important that you simply lease a automotive when you’re on Zakynthos Island for those who hope to see the entire sights on this article.
We rented our automotive with Expedia and opted out of the prolonged insurance coverage, which meant that the automotive price us simply $17 / day.
You may take minibusses to some elements 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.
In case you’re taking just a few buses day-after-day, the prices add up in any case. Even for those who’re on a funds, we suggest splurging for a 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 tons of of low cost residences obtainable, and whereas there’s not as a lot historical past and native tradition as the opposite Ionian Islands, it nonetheless has quite a bit to supply guests, particularly these seeking to laze on stunning seashores and eat scrumptious Greek meals.
It will 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 seeking to loosen up and soak within the solar.
READ MORE:
- Zakynthos, Greece: Our Final Minute Journey Determination
- Kefalonia, Greece: Our 5 Day Journey Information
- Climate in Greece: When is The Finest Time to Go to?
- Issues To Do in Corfu: Greece’s Ionian Star
- Finest Seashores in Greece – a Record of The High 15
- Lesvos, Greece – Our 5 Day Journey Information
- Chios, Greece – Our 4 Day Journey Information
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 implausible expertise 
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The publish 15 Finest Issues To Do in Zakynthos, Greece appeared first on Goats On The Highway.
