Looking for the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece? This ultimate guide for first time visitors includes all the top activities, attractions, restaurants and hotels, plus everything you need to know to plan your visit to this stunning Ionian island!
Greece has always had a special place in my heart. The beautiful beaches, insanely clear blue waters, charming towns and ancient ruins all make it a top summer destination in Europe. I’ve been to many of the popular islands in the Aegean Sea like Mykonos, Santorini and Crete so I wanted to explore a new region… Which is how I landed on the Ionian islands!
I could not have been happier with my decision as Zakynthos turned out to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.
Here are the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece!
About Zakynthos
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a beautiful Greek island located in the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of mainland Greece. Zakynthos island is part of the Ionian Islands group, which includes several other islands such as Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Ithaca.
Olive groves, charming villages, pristine beaches, and limestone cliffs are some of the island’s most iconic features. Plus, Zakynthos is world-renowned for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking turquoise waters. In fact, Navagio Beach, with its iconic shipwreck, is one of the most photographed and famous beaches in the world… You’ve most likely seen photos of it all over social media!
So, whether you’re seeking natural wonders and adventurous activities, or simply a relaxing beach vacation with scenic beauty, Zakynthos has something to offer for every type of traveler.
How to Get to Zakynthos
Like many of the popular Greek islands, Zakynthos is accessible by both air and sea!
By Air: The most common way to reach Zakynthos is by flying into Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), also known as Dionysios Solomos Airport. Direct flights are available from tons of European cities during the tourist season (spring to fall). London, Manchester, Rome, Naples, Amsterdam, Geneva, Paris, Budapest and Berlin are just some of the cities with direct flights to Zakynthos!
Within Greece, you’ll find direct flights from Corfu, Kefalonia, and Athens. So if you’re planning to visit some of the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea as well as the Zakynthos, you will have to connect in Athens.
We were traveling from Budapest and wanted to visit Zakynthos but the closest direct flight we could find was to Kefalonia. So we spent a few days in Kefalonia first and then flew to Zakynthos via Sky Express.
Our flight was definitely on “island time” — there were no gate agents at the time of our scheduled departure and no employees to ask for information sending all the passengers into a little bit of panic. But around an hour later, a gate agent showed up and we boarded our quick 25 minute flight to Zakynthos!
By Sea: Zakynthos is connected to the mainland of Greece and other nearby islands by ferry services. Ferries operate from the port town of Kyllini on the Peloponnese mainland and the island of Kefalonia. The ferry journey from Kyllini to Zakynthos takes approximately one hour, and the journey from Kefalonia is about 1 hour 20 minutes. In Zakynthos, the main ferry port is in Zakynthos Town.
Before planning your journey, make sure to check the latest travel information, flight schedules, and ferry routes, especially if you are traveling during the off-peak season.
When is the Best Time to Visit Zakynthos?
The best time to visit Zakynthos is during the summer months of June through August. The weather is hot (temperature around 77°F to 95°F) so it’s perfect for swimming and enjoying the beaches. Of course, this is the peak tourist seasons so expect crowds and make reservations in advance!
If you prefer to go outside of high season when it’s a bit less crowded, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April, May, September or October. Just note that the temperatures may be more mild and some businesses may not be open for the season.
Winter time in Zakynthos is colder with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 59°F. This is the low season so most tourist-related businesses will be closed.
How Many Days Should You Spend On Zakynthos?
The number of days you need in Zakynthos depends on your travel preferences, the activities you want to experience, and whether you prefer a relaxed or more packed itinerary.
Short Stay (2-4 Days): If you have limited time, a short stay of 2 to 4 days can still allow you to explore some of the best things to do in Zakynthos. You can visit iconic beaches like Navagio Beach, experience the Blue Caves, explore Zakynthos Town, and enjoy a few leisurely days.
Longer Stay (5-10 Days): A longer stay of 5 to 10 days will give you a more comprehensive experience of the island. You can explore even more beaches, visit traditional villages, take boat trips to hidden coves, and enjoy some cultural and historical sites. You could even take day trips to neighboring islands or the mainland!
I visited Zakynthos in just a few days and felt like I got a good feel for the island and explored plenty of places. However, it was quite fast paced and the beaches were so beautiful that I do wish I had an extra day or two to just relax!
How to Get Around Zakynthos
There are a number of ways to get around but renting a car is definitely the best option if you plan to explore different parts of the island.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is one of the most popular and flexible ways to explore Zakynthos. Many international and local car rental agencies operate on the island, and you can pick up a rental vehicle at Zakynthos International Airport or in major towns like Zakynthos Town. The road network on Zakynthos is generally well-maintained, making it easy to navigate.
We rented a car and were able to pick it up from the airport when we arrived. I recommend making a car reservation in advance during the peak tourist season, and make sure to reserve an automatic car if you prefer it!
Driving in Zakynthos was very easy and allowed us to explore so many different parts of the island. It gave us the freedom to visit remote beaches, villages, and attractions at our own pace!
Scooters: Scooters or mopeds are a popular choice for short-distance travel on the island. Many rental agencies offer scooters and mopeds, and you can find them in Zakynthos Town and tourist areas.
ATVs/Quad Bikes: ATVs or quad bikes are also an option for those who want to explore off-road areas and are just going short distances.
Taxis: Taxis are available in Zakynthos Town and other major towns. They are convenient for short trips or transfers to specific locations. You can find taxis at designated taxi stands or arrange for one through your accommodation.
Best Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
Boat Tour
This is hands down one of the top things to do in Zakynthos! If you only do one activity, make it a boat tour because it’s the best way to see a lot of the island in just one day.
Plus, taking advantage of boat tours allows you to discover hidden beaches, sea caves, and scenic spots around the island that are inaccessible by land.
We opted for a private boat trip on a small boat so we could make our own itinerary. If we liked a certain spot, we could stay longer, and if we felt anywhere was too crowded… Off we went to a more secluded cove. There are lots of boat tour companies offering these excursions so I highly recommend going the private route if you prefer to go off the beaten path and away from the crowds!
We did an all day tour; starting around 9am in Zakynthos Town and returning around 5pm. We went around the entire island and spent the day swimming in little coves, exploring sea caves, and relaxing on secluded beaches.
We went with Alegria charter which was a comfortable boat that fit up to 10 people and included a captain, hostess, towels, snorkeling equipment, snacks and a bottle of wine.
Blue Caves
One of the most well-known spots on the island is the Blue Caves, a series of sea caves with mesmerizing blue waters. The caves are only accessible by boat, and the sunlight reflecting off the water creates a magical blue hue.
We had so much fun swimming and floating in the calm turquoise waters and exploring the sea caves. The water is so clear you can see the bottom, plus lots of colorful fish!
Navagio Beach
Visiting Navagio Beach, also called Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most popular things to do in Zakynthos. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and is accessible only by boat. The shipwreck, which gave the beach its name, adds a very unique touch to the beautiful scenery.
The shipwreck has been there since 1980 when the ship got caught in a storm. The rumored story of the ship is that it was smuggling illegal cigarettes from Turkey to Italy. The Greek captain decided he wanted a larger cut of the profit and held the Italian crew-members at gunpoint… Until the storm came and their smuggled loot was spoiled in the wreck!
In recent years, the beach has had some rockslides due to seismic activity causing portions of the beach to be closed. It was fully closed to the public in the summer of 2023, but it may re-open in 2024 with some visitor limitations.
We visited Navagio Beach as one of the first stops on our boat day in hopes to beat the crowds. I was excited to visit this famous beach and eager to see if it would live up to expectations (as sometimes locations made famous by social media can be disappointing in real life!).
Arriving to Navagio Beach, we learned that we were not quite early enough to beat the crowds… The cove already had plenty of boats and the beach was dotted with people. Even so, I didn’t find myself disappointed… In fact, quite the opposite!
I was totally awestruck by the beauty of the cove and the dramatic sheer cliffs towering above it. And the shipwreck was equally impressive in size! It was truly a unique beach that is 100% worth seeing.
And even more shocking was the color of the water. I was assuming that the photos of Navagio Beach had been edited making the water appear more blue than in real life. Boy, was I wrong!
The color of the water is truly astounding and I don’t think I’ve ever seen water that blue… It literally looks like Gatorade Cool Blue!
While it seemed that many people were posted up on the beach for the day, we spent just under an hour enjoying the scenery, swimming in the water and taking photos. Then, we were ready to move on from the crowds and explore more secluded parts of the island!
Note: we arrived just after 10am and the majority of the beach was still covered in shade due to the towering cliffs. If you want to experience the beach in full sun, I would recommend going between 12-1pm. Just be aware that this is also the most crowded time of the day!
Navagio Viewpoint
While the only way to access Navagio Beach is by boat, you can still take in the views of Shipwreck Beach from the cliffs above…. 650 feet above to be exact!
The drive to the viewpoint is about 45 minutes from Zakynthos Town and is a very popular destination. There is an official viewing platform that looks over the beach and often has a long line of tourists waiting their turn to take a photo.
After the official viewing platform, there is a rough trail that leads to more unobstructed views of the beach. However, the trail is not maintained and there seems to be conflicting information on whether tourists are allowed to access it. The cliffs can be very dangerous — several tourists have fallen while attempting to take photos — so use extreme caution!
Mizithres
This may have been my favorite stop of our boat day and is definitely one of the best things to do in Zakynthos!
Located below the impressive Keri cliffs, “Mizithres” refers to a pair of unique rock formations located on the western coast of the island. These striking geological formations are known for their distinct appearance and are popular among visitors for both their natural beauty and the panoramic views they offer.
The small beaches surrounding the rock formation are only accessible by boat which means that they usually aren’t too crowded. Some boat excursions stop here, but you can also rent your own boat from nearby Keri Beach. No skippers license is required and it costs around 80€ for a four hour rental.
If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with finding the most beautiful blue waters around the world… And Mizithres beach earned a spot very high on my list of the bluest waters I’ve seen!
Spending the afternoon floating in the water, swimming to different beaches and taking in the magical scenery, I was in total heaven.
Keri Cliffs Viewpoint
Mizithres are situated near the village of Keri, on the southwestern tip of Zakynthos. The location is known for its rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs so seeing Mizithres from above is just as impressive!
Many people opt to watch the sunset from the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant where you can take in the views of Mizithres while enjoying some wine and dinner.
Explore Zakynthos Town
Zakynthos Town, also known as Zante Town, is the capital and main port of the island. The town is home to historic attractions, as well as lots of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. It’s also a departure point for most boat tours and excursions so it’s always bustling with activity.
In Zakynthos Town, you can explore the Venetian Castle, which offers panoramic views of the island. The castle has a rich history, and wandering through its ruins provides a glimpse into Zakynthos’ past.
And, Solomos Square is a central gathering place and a hub of activity. It is named after the Zakynthian national poet Dionysios Solomos. In the square, you’ll find the statue of Solomos and the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos.
Spend the Day at Nobelos
Nobelos Seaside Lodge & Bio Restaurant is a hotel, restaurant, and beach club all in one. It’s located on the northeast side of the island and has an ideal position on the coast line looking over a little islet — right next to Agios Nikolaos Beach! The hotel has just four rooms so bookings must be made well in advance.
We spent the day at Nobelos beach club and also dined at the restaurant for lunch. Situated on a scenic cove, the beach club setting is just magical!
I spent most of the day swimming in the cove, floating in the calm waters, and snorkeling along the coastline. The water is so clear that you can see straight to the bottom and we were able to spot lots of colorful fish and even an octopus!
Our lunch was equally spectacular. The menu features traditional Greek specialities and fresh seafood — everything was well-presented and so delicious!
→ Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Nobelos Beach Club (including pricing!)
Visit Cameo Island
Cameo Island is a picturesque islet located just off the coast of Laganas Bay. This rocky, small island is known for its natural beauty and has become a popular spot for weddings, events, and photography. It’s unique as it’s only accessible from the mainland by a long wooden bridge, creating a very scenic setting.
Try the Local Cuisine
Indulge in Zakynthian cuisine, known for its Mediterranean flavors. Try local specialties such as moussaka, pastitsio, and seafood dishes. Olive oil and wine from the region are also highly regarded
Enjoy the Beaches
The island is home to some spectacular beaches with crystal-clear waters so of course spending a day at the beach is one of the top things to do in Zakynthos! Here are some of the best beaches on the island:
- Xigia Sulfur Beach: Often referred to simply as Xigia Beach, this beach is known for its sulfur-rich waters, which emanate from an underground spring. The sulfur content gives the water a distinct smell and a milky blue color. The sulfur springs are believed by some to have healing and therapeutic properties, particularly for the skin.
- Laganas Beach: Laganas Beach is one of the longest beaches on the island and is located in the popular resort area of Laganas. The beach is known for its soft sand and clear waters. It’s also part of the protected National Marine Park, where you may spot a loggerhead sea turtle!
- Kalamaki Beach: Another beach in the Laganas Bay area, Kalamaki Beach is a large beach known for it’s clear waters and mountain views. It’s aso a nesting site for sea turtles so visitors are advised to follow guidelines to protect the natural habitat and turtles!
- Gerakas Beach: Situated in the Vasilikos region, Gerakas Beach is known for its golden sand and crystal clear waters. This beach is also a breeding ground for loggerhead turtles.
- Banana Beach: Divided into Banana Beach I and Banana Beach II, this area has a lively atmosphere with beach bars and water sports. The sandy shores and shallow waters make it a popular choice for families.
- Alykes Beach: Located on the northeast coast, Alykes Beach is known for its fine golden sand and shallow waters. The area is named after the salt flats (alykes) that were historically used for salt production.
- Agios Nikolaos Beach (Saint Nicholas Beach): Situated in the northern part of Zakynthos, Agios Nikolaos Beach is surrounded by lush greenery and features clear blue waters. It’s a quieter beach, ideal for those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Porto Limnionas: A picturesque cove with turquoise waters, Porto Limnionas is surrounded by cliffs and offers a unique and secluded swimming experience. The natural rock formations make it a great spot for snorkeling.
- Porto Zorro Beach: Located in the Vasilikos region, Porto Zorro Beach is known for its soft sand and calm waters. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas and is a good choice for a relaxing day by the sea.
- Dafni Beach: Dafni Beach is part of the National Marine Park and is a protected area for loggerhead sea turtles. The beach has golden sand and shallow waters, making it an ideal nesting ground for turtles.
Where to Stay
Looking for the best hotels in Zakynthos? The island is known for its boutique hotels nestled away in the hills surrounded by lush olive groves and overlooking the Ionian Sea.
Tsamis Zante Suites: We stayed at this recently updated hotel and had a wonderful experience! The rooms were comfortable, modern, and had all the amenities we needed. Plus, we loved the swimming pool area, delicious breakfast buffet, and friendly staff! (Mid-Range)
Lesante Blu: One of the best hotels on the island, Lesante Blu has a dreamy infinity pool with panoramic sea views — a perfect place to watch the sunset. Plus, the rooms are elegant, modern and comfortable with views looking out over the Ionian Sea. (Luxury)
Lesante Cape Resort & Villas: This breathtaking resort features a gorgeous Mediterranean chic design that will have you feeling right at home. The three main pools have jaw-dropping views of the sea and lots of sun loungers to relax for the day. And, the rooms are large, well-appointed and some even feature private pools! (Luxury)
Zante Maris Suites: Perched on a hill, Zante Maris Suites is surrounded by lush greenery and olive groves — and it’s just a 13 minute walk to Tsilivi Beach! And, the beautiful rooms are comfortable and modern, and most feature a swim out pool. (Luxury)
The Bay Hotel & Suites: A chic hotel with private access to a scenic sandy beach — sounds ideal, right? The Bay Hotel & Suites is known for its stylish and spacious rooms, deletable food, ideal location, and lovely pool area. (Mid-Range)
Olea All Suite Hotel: Another gorgeous modern Mediterranean style hotel, Olea All Suite is nestled on a hill surrounded by olive trees and is a 10 minute walk to Tsilivi Beach. This 5 star hotel features beautiful tiered swimming pools lined with olive and palm trees. Guests love the gorgeous rooms, incredible breakfast, and relaxing feel of this property. (Luxury)
Ionian Hill Hotel: Just 5 minutes from the nearest beach, this hotel features panoramic sea views in an excellent location. This stylish hotel has comfortable rooms, a welcoming staff, and a relaxing pool area. (Budget)
Alamis Hotel & Apartments: Clean, spacious and modern rooms are a highlight at this hotel. Guests also love the close proximity to the beach, the helpful staff, and the large pool area. (Budget)
Traveling with a group? The island is home to some stunning villas that are perfect for a group of family or friends! Check out the beautiful Valentino Luxury Villa, Bruma Luxury Residence or the Thesan Villas for a memorable group getaway.
Where to Dine
Looking for the best restaurants in Zakynthos? Enjoying the island’s incredible cuisine and fresh seafood is definitely one of the best things to do in Zakynthos. The island has tons of traditional tavernas, authentic Greek food, and restaurants with a view… Here are my top picks!
Nobelos Bio Restaurant: Our favorite meal on the island was at Nobelos! The seafood was incredibly fresh and we were so impressed by the flavors and presentation. Oh, and not to mention the gorgeous views from the restaurant!
Cave Damianos: Perched atop a hill, this charming restaurant has sublime views of the sea and mountains. The restaurant is literally built on top of a cave — which you can actually visit!
L’ete Sunset Bar: A sunset bar with panoramic views of the sea is one of my favorite ways to end the day! L’ete Sunset Bar has a chic and trendy atmosphere and is one of the best places to catch the sun go down.
Bassia Restaurant: Nestled away on the cliffs near Zakynthos Town, Bassia Restaurant has gorgeous views and a romantic outdoor atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Greek food with fresh seafood options, this is the perfect place to try some local specialties.
Grampsas Winery & Estate: This family-owned vineyard has wine tastings in a picturesque vineyard setting during the day, and offers fine-dinging in the evenings. The elegant dinner is perfect for a special occasion — the food is incredible, with a fabulous presentation and service.
Prosilio Restaurant: Located next to Solomos Square in Zakynthos Town, Prosilio Restaurant features a lovely courtyard terrace and delicious Greek-fusion cuisine.
Now you know all the best things to do in Zakynthos, it’s time to start planning your getaway to this gorgeous Greek island! From the iconic Navagio Beach to the limestone cliffs, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of Zakynthos.
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