Zakynthos, Greece: 20 Best Things to Do and See

Zakynthos is undoubtedly one of Greece’s most stunning islands, drawing in over 850,000 visitors annually. With its lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and perfectly turquoise seas, it’s no surprise this island captures the hearts of so many travelers.

In Zakynthos, you can snorkel alongside gentle sea turtles, try your hand at surfing, or take a leisurely stroll through the charming villages where locals enjoy a relaxed pace of life. Still wondering if Zakynthos should be your next holiday destination? Let’s explore the best sights, places to stay, and exciting activities that make Zakynthos an unforgettable getaway!

Best Time to Visit Greece

Zakynthos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. For a beach holiday, the best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September.

August offers the warmest sea temperatures, making it perfect for families traveling with children. If you prefer a quieter experience outside of peak tourist season, consider visiting in June or September for warm weather and fewer crowds.

Holidays Zakynthos: Tips where to look for the best tours

For the best deals to Zakynthos, check out Invia, where you’ll find a curated selection of tours from 150 verified Czech travel agencies, ensuring reliability and quality. This platform also allows you to easily compare tour prices across agencies, making it simple to find the option that best fits your budget and preferences.

Best Hotels in Zakynthos

Zakynthos offers a wide range of beautiful accommodations, including hotels, apartments, and villas. One top choice is Viatzo Villas—be sure to check their availability for an unforgettable stay.

For families traveling with kids who prefer an all-inclusive experience, the Bitzaro Grande Hotel & Suites is a fantastic option. However, it’s highly popular, so it tends to book up quickly.

Easy Ways to Get Around Zakynthos

If you’re not traveling with a tour operator—which typically covers most of the island through organized excursions—you can rely on local buses (KTEL) to reach popular destinations like Tsilivi, Laganas, Alykes, Keri, and Vassilikos. The central bus station is located in Zakynthos Town, with additional stops around the island.

For maximum convenience, renting a car is the best option. RentalCars is a reliable service in Greece, and we’ve had great experiences with them. You can easily pick up your car at the airport upon arrival.

Taxis are also available throughout the island if you prefer that option.

Fascinating Facts About Zakynthos Island

Many of us are familiar with the Giant Tortoise, or Caretta caretta, especially from holiday specials, but did you know that Zakynthos is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where you can actually see these remarkable sea turtles?

These impressive creatures can reach lengths of up to 1 meter and weigh as much as 135 kg. Female sea turtles return every two to four years to the same beach in Zakynthos where they were born to lay up to 100 eggs. After about 60 days of incubation, the baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea, beginning their challenging journey to adulthood.

The Caretta caretta primarily feeds on jellyfish, crustaceans, and sometimes mollusks, playing a vital role in keeping the marine ecosystem balanced. By controlling jellyfish populations, these turtles help sustain a healthy environment in the Mediterranean.

Read on to discover the best spots in Zakynthos to catch a glimpse of these amazing turtles in their natural habitat!

Best Things to Do and See in Zakynthos

You’ll never run out of things to do in Zakynthos! Explore some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, catch a glimpse of the famous Caretta caretta sea turtles, or take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Zakynthos Town. Let’s dive into the top sights and activities Zakynthos has to offer.

Navagio beach

Navagio Beach, or “Shipwreck Beach,” is one of the most iconic and photogenic beaches in Greece, making it Zakynthos’s top attraction. During the summer, the beach attracts large crowds of tourists, so if you’re not expecting this, it can impact your experience. Planning ahead can help you make the most of your visit to this stunning destination.

Navagio Beach, located on the northwestern tip of Zakynthos, is renowned for the Panagiotis shipwreck, which has rested on its sands since 1980 after a stormy wreckage brought it ashore.

Access to the beach is only possible by boat; however, it was closed in 2023 due to the risk of falling rocks. You can conveniently book a boat trip to Navagio through GetYourGuide or arrange one with your tour operator if you’re traveling as part of a group.

Blue Caves

Another highly popular excursion in Zakynthos is a visit to the Blue Caves. These caves are famous for their striking limestone formations and the vibrant turquoise sea, which shimmers brilliantly as sunlight reflects off the water.

The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the sunlight enhances the water’s vibrant color.

Most cruises to the Blue Caves depart from the port of Agios Nikolaos. You can easily book a trip through GetYourGuide or with your tour operator. Many visitors choose to combine this excursion with a trip to Navagio Beach for an unforgettable experience.

Laganas

For those seeking nightlife, Laganas is a must-visit. This bustling resort, which evolved from a quaint village into a vibrant tourist hub, offers an impressive array of restaurants, bars, discos, and shops, all set against the backdrop of a stunning, long beach.

Laganas is popular not only with young visitors but also with families, thanks to its excellent beach facilities and gradual, family-friendly entrance to the sea. The beach is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, where the famous Caretta caretta turtles are protected, adding a unique natural charm to this lively area.

Marathonisi – Turtle Island

Marathonisi, or “Turtle Island,” is a small, uninhabited island in the southern part of Zakynthos, nestled within the Bay of Laganas.

This island is a favorite nesting spot for Caretta caretta turtles, which come here to lay their eggs in the sand. The island itself even has a shape that resembles a turtle!

Marathonisi features two main beaches. The larger, sandy Marathonisi Beach, with its soft golden sand, serves as a nesting ground for the turtles. Nearby, there is a smaller, pebble beach that leads to two scenic coves.

The island’s landscape is mostly rocky, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, particularly around its caves. Since there are no facilities on Marathonisi, be sure to bring water and some snacks for your visit. Access to the island is by boat, which you can easily book through GetYourGuide or with your tour operator.

Xigia Beach

Xigia Beach, located on the northeast coast of Zakynthos, is one of the island’s most stunning beaches. The water here has a unique milky color, thanks to sulfur springs flowing from nearby sea caves. Access to this beach is only possible by boat, making it a secluded and memorable spot to visit.

Xigia Beach is renowned for its therapeutic properties, with waters rich in sulfur and collagen. These minerals provide natural relief for inflammatory conditions like arthritis and rheumatism, while also benefiting a range of skin ailments.

Gerakas Beach – Turtle Beach

Gerakas Beach, situated on the southeastern tip of Zakynthos, is one of the island’s most tranquil and well-known “turtle beaches.”

This serene spot is a favored nesting ground for giant sea turtles, particularly from May through September. To protect the nesting sites, the beach is carefully managed, and access is prohibited from dusk until dawn. Visitors are reminded to tread carefully along the beach and avoid disturbing the sand to help preserve this vital habitat.

The beach is accessible only by car, with a paved road from the Vassilikos resort leading directly to it. Parking is available along the roadside near the beach. Gerakas Beach is located approximately 16 km from Zakynthos Town.

Keri Cave

The Keri Caves, located on the southwest coast of Zakynthos between the cliffs of Kapo Marathia and Mizithres, are accessible only by sea. Most visitors arrive by boat or kayak. The easiest way to explore the caves is by booking a trip through GetYourGuide, which often includes stops at Marathonisi and Cameo Islands for a full experience.

Most cruises depart from the lively ports of Agios Sostis or Laganas Bay, allowing you to select a departure point that’s conveniently close to your accommodation.

Banana Beach

Banana Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Zakynthos and a must-visit during your stay. It’s the perfect spot to spend a full day by the sea, offering everything you need for a relaxing beach day.

Located on the southeastern coast of Zakynthos, this beach is famous for its long stretch of soft, golden sand, beautifully contrasting with the crystal-clear waters.

Porto Limnion

Another must-visit in Zakynthos is Porto Limnionas, an isolated bay surrounded by steep cliffs. While not a traditional beach, this rocky cove with its crystal-clear waters is perfect for snorkeling and diving.

You can enter the water from the small pebble beach or, for the adventurous, by jumping directly from the rocks. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy this beautiful spot before it gets busy, as it’s one of the island’s most popular destinations.

Tip: Just nearby, you’ll find another beautiful bay worth visiting—Porto Roxa.

Cape Skinari

Cape Skinari, located at the northernmost tip of Zakynthos, offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, limestone caves, and a picturesque lighthouse.

On clear days, you can even see the nearby island of Kefalonia and its majestic Enos Mountains. The renowned Blue Caves are also nearby and are primarily accessible by boat from the port of Agios Nikolaos. For those who prefer a land approach, a pathway with steps leads down to the water from the windmill on the headland.

Cape Skinari’s main landmarks include a traditional Greek windmill with a charming restaurant and a picturesque lighthouse. Built in 1897, the lighthouse stands atop a 67-meter-high point and offers some of the best views in the area. Although the interior isn’t open to the public, the lighthouse is still worth a visit for its historical significance and stunning panoramic vistas.

Town of Zakynthos

During your holiday in Zakynthos, don’t miss exploring the island’s capital, Zakynthos Town, also known as Zante. Be sure to visit St. Mark’s Square, rich in history, and Solomos Square, the city’s largest square, where major cultural events and festivals are held year-round. Take a leisurely stroll along the pedestrian-friendly Roma Street, lined with shops and traditional Greek restaurants.

Church of Agios Dionysios

The Church of Agios Dionysios, located near the harbor in the heart of Zakynthos Town, is dedicated to Saint Dionysios, the island’s patron saint, and serves as its religious center.

The original church, built in the 18th century, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1893. Reconstruction began in 1925 and took 23 years to complete. Remarkably, the church survived the devastating 1953 earthquake without any damage, a fact that locals regard as both a miracle and a blessing.

The Church of Agios Dionysios is a three-aisled basilica featuring Corinthian columns that support its roof. It’s also renowned for its 40-meter-high bell tower, a striking landmark overlooking the harbor.

Bohali Castle – the Venetian Castle of Zakynthos

The Venetian Castle on Zakynthos, located just outside the capital, is a remarkable example of Venetian architecture in the Ionian Islands. Built in the 15th century, the castle sits atop a hill in a scenic pine forest, offering breathtaking views of Zakynthos and the Ionian Sea.

The castle’s history dates back to 1460, when it was nearly destroyed by the Turks, but it was later restored and completed by the Venetians in 1646. As you pass through the main gate, look for the Winged Lion of St. Mark, symbolizing the Venetian Empire’s rule over the Ionian Islands. Once the island’s central capital, the castle now shows signs of its tumultuous history, including damage from earthquakes, wars, and pirate raids.

Located about 2 kilometers from the capital’s center, the castle is a short 5-minute drive or a 20-minute uphill walk. If you’re visiting in the summer, plan to go in the morning and bring water.

Entry is just €4, and while there’s no guidebook or map available, information signs throughout the site provide helpful context.

Askos Park – zoo and forest park

Looking for a family-friendly outing? Here’s a great suggestion!

Askos Park, also known as Askos Stone Park, is a unique attraction in Zakynthos. This 124-acre nature reserve serves as a forest park, wildlife sanctuary, agricultural research center, and even an archaeological site.

Open to visitors since 2002, the park is a popular destination for families with children, offering a perfect blend of nature and learning.

The main attraction at Askos Stone Park is its diverse wildlife, living freely in their natural habitats. Visitors can see birds of prey, pigeons, regal peacocks, and in designated areas, observe deer, rabbits, ponies, cows, horses, goats, sheep, water turtles, squirrels, and chinchillas.

The park is also home to rare Platonia deer and North American raccoons. Visitors can feed some of the animals, try their hand at cow milking, or even participate in traditional olive picking.

Askos Stone Park gets its name from its unique stone structures, including stone walkways, walls, old stables, and cellars built from wood and stone. The park also features famous stone-carved tanks, created around 600 years ago to collect rainwater, adding a historical touch to this beautiful natural site.

Solomos Museum

The Solomos Museum, officially named the Museum of Solomos and Eminent Zakynthians, is located in St. Mark’s Square in the northern part of Zakynthos. Founded in 1959, the museum honors two prominent figures from the island, Dionysios Solomos and Andreas Kalvos. It houses collections of local 18th- and 19th-century art, sculptures, musical instruments related to notable Zakynthians, ceramics, and portraits of the island’s most significant figures. Since March 2022, mathematician Eleni Pylarinou has served as the museum’s director.

Dionysios Solomos, born on April 8, 1798, in Zakynthos, was a renowned Greek poet and the author of “Hymn to Liberty,” the first two stanzas of which form Greece’s national anthem. In 1828, he moved to Corfu to focus on his poetry. Since 1968, his remains have been housed in the museum’s mausoleum.

Andreas Kalvos, born on April 1, 1792, in Zakynthos during the Republic of Venice, was the author of five volumes of poetry and drama.

Venetian Bridge in Argassi

The Venetian Bridge in Argassi, also known as the Argassi Bridge, dates back to the 19th century and is located on Argassi Beach, just 350 meters from the town center.

Constructed from local limestone tuff, the bridge originally featured three arches stretching 13 meters in length and standing 10 meters from the shore. Today, only half of the bridge with its three arches remains visible, while the other half has sunk below sea level.

Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa

The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa on the island of Zakynthos is perched atop a mountain, on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Marble fragments from this ancient temple were used to construct the entrance gate and to decorate the church’s interior. Dating back to the 15th century, the old monastery was built in the Byzantine style and is the oldest church on the island.

Reaching the monastery is challenging, with a steep and rocky path in some places, but the stunning views from the top and the ruins scattered across the landscape make the journey well worth it. In 1534, the monastery was entrusted to the noble Logotheton family, who continue to maintain it today. The church, built in the shape of a cross on the site of Artemis’s temple, stands amid the remains of what was once a flourishing monastery.

Korakonissi

The Korakonissi rock formation, located in the northwest near the village of Kiliomenos, resembles a small island yet is connected to the mainland.

What sets Korakonissi apart is its striking natural arch and rock pools, which have been naturally carved over time. Like much of Zakynthos, the water here is crystal clear, and its depth makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling.

Panagia Yperagathou Monastery

The Monastery of Panagia Yperagathou in Zakynthos, founded in the 17th century and affiliated with the Monastery of Sinai, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Inside, visitors can admire historic icons and beautiful murals. Though no longer inhabited, it once held great significance for the island of Zakynthos.

Yperagathou Monastery is located near the village of Kiliomeno, about 8 km southwest of Maherado and roughly 15 km from Zakynthos Town. The route to the monastery winds through flower-filled fields, offering lovely views of Zakynthos’s mountains. The peaceful surroundings include a small plateau shaded by pine and oak trees, making it a serene destination.

Zante Water Village – water park

If your kids love water parks as much as I did when I was young (and I’m sure ours will be the same!), a visit to Zante Water Village is a must. As one of the largest water parks in Greece, it’s packed with fun for the whole family.

It’s best to purchase tickets in advance; we usually use GetYourGuide for its reliability, but if you’re with a travel agent, they may also be able to arrange tickets for you.

While tickets are available at the entrance, lines can get long, and waiting with kids—or even without—can be a hassle.

Is it suitable to holiday in Zakynthos with children?

I first visited Zakynthos as a child, and it truly is a paradise for families. There’s no need to plan anything too elaborate—exploring caves, snorkeling, and spotting Caretta caretta turtles are activities everyone can enjoy, both kids and adults alike. Plus, the sea is calm, and many beaches have a gentle, gradual entry into the water, making them safe and perfect for families to relax and play.

Frequently Asked Questions