Exploring Zakynthos: A Guide to Visiting the Greek Island of Zakynthos

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Zakynthos Greece: More than Just Shipwreck Beach

Explore the stunning landscapes of Zakynthos by sea or land, with its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine white beaches, and incredibly vibrant blue waters. Getting to this beautiful island from Athens is also quite convenient.

Despite its current popularity and crowded tourist scene, the island of Zakynthos still offers bucket list sights and photo opportunities that make it worth a visit.

Discovering Zakynthos: A Traveler’s Guide to Activities, Accommodations, and Sightseeing

Top Zakynthos Vacation Packages

Explore the beautiful coastline of Zakynthos with a boat tour to discover sea caves, beaches, and other amazing sights.

Check out GetYourGuide for top-rated boat tours in Zakynthos! They offer tours to popular attractions such as Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, Turtle Island, and more. Most tours also include complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off from the main areas in Zakynthos.

Highly recommend this company for a variety of day tours and activities worldwide – we’ve used them numerous times and have always had a great experience!

Experience the Zakynthos Island Tour – Book Your Adventure Now!

The Location of Zakynthos Island

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is an island situated in the Ionian Sea, to the west of mainland Greece. It is approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Athens by air.

The Ionian Islands in Greece consist of seven in total, with Zakynthos being the most well-known. However, nearby islands such as Kefalonia are equally picturesque and worth exploring if time allows.

“Traveling to Zakynthos, Greece: A Guide”

Accessing Zakynthos Island is possible by either taking a flight or ferry.

The most convenient and quickest way to reach Zakynthos is by flying, although it is also the most costly option. The Zakynthos airport (ZTH) offers daily direct flights from Athens, as well as select international cities such as Amsterdam, Rome, and Warsaw.

How long does it take to fly from Athens to Zakynthos and how much does a one-way ticket cost with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express?

Consider using Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) as your preferred airline over Sky Express if possible, although both options are acceptable. Typically, the ticket prices include free checked baggage.

Explore Zakynthos flight options on Skyscanner and book now!

Opting for the ferry from Athens to Zakynthos is more cost-effective than flying, but it does involve a longer travel time and some additional complexity.

Traveling from Athens to Zakynthos via Kyllini by bus and ferry

Explore More of Greece with Island Hopping Beyond Zakynthos

One option could be:
“We flew into Zakynthos for a few days, then took the ferry to Kefalonia, and finally flew from Kefalonia back to Athens. Our trip went smoothly and was very enjoyable!”

Navigating Zakynthos Island: Transportation Options

Explore Zakynthos Town on Foot or by Transport for Further Adventures

The best way to travel around Zakynthos island is by renting a car or ATV (4 wheeler). There are numerous companies that provide car rentals on the island, but we suggest choosing DiscoverCars!

KTEL Zakynthos provides a cost-effective bus service, but it’s important to note that some routes are only available during the summer season. You can find a complete list of prices and island routes on their website.

Explore Nearby Attractions on Foot or by Taxi in the Local Area

Navigating Zakynthos by car can be a bit nerve-wracking, but it’s manageable, and the majority of the roads are in good shape. The mountainous terrain on the island’s west side means you’ll encounter some steep and winding roads, but they’re typically well-maintained.

Some roads on the western side of the island may still be unpaved with occasional potholes, but they are gradually being upgraded as the island grows in popularity and accessibility for tourists.

Navigating Zante town can be challenging due to heavy traffic, narrow roads, and numerous parked cars. It’s important to drive cautiously and remain vigilant while in town. However, once you leave the town area, the roads generally become much easier to navigate.

Greeks Drive on the Right Side of the Road and Have a Tendency to Drive Fast

Foreign tourists from Australia, Canada, UK and the United States no longer require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Greece after the law was updated in 2021.

The original Greek text of the new law can be located in Law 4850, article 25, paragraph η, on page 10697, and has also been verified by the U.S. Embassy in Greece.

It’s still a good idea to have an International Driving Permit for Zakynthos, just in case there is any confusion with the authorities or local car rental companies. It seems that many people in Greece are still unaware of this requirement.

Exploring the Gorgeous Coastline of Zakynthos by Boat

Best Accommodation Options in Zakynthos

Exploring Activities in Zakynthos, Greece

• Navagio Lookout Point

The renowned shipwreck beach that made Zakynthos island a popular destination for many travelers. It’s widely regarded as one of the most iconic travel photos globally!

Navagio: A Stunning Secluded Beach with a Smuggler Ship Ran Aground in 1980

You can capture the iconic postcard view and take photos from a viewpoint on the cliffs high above the beach if that’s your main goal.

Explore Navagio viewpoint on your own or opt for a tour package that encompasses various attractions in Zakynthos.

Accessing the Beach from the Viewpoint is Not Possible due to Steep Cliffs

However, the vantage point remains one of the most beautiful views in Zakynthos, so it is definitely worth including in your travel plans!

Navagio Viewpoint: Explore Further

Reserve Your Spot for the Navagio Beach & Viewpoint Private Tour

Monastery of Saint George of Krimnon

A small monastery is located on the route to the Navagio viewpoint, just a 5-minute drive away.

The Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, established in the 16th century, continues to be an active monastery with resident monks. Visitors should dress modestly if they wish to enter the monastery, but can still capture beautiful photos from the exterior.

The monastery offers free admission and has a small workshop where they create mosaics and other artwork. Visitors have the option to purchase their items without feeling pressured. The mosaics are of exceptional quality.

A picturesque walking path behind the monastery leads to a cross with stunning views of the Ionian Sea, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

• Navagio Beach: A Stunning Destination for Beach Lovers

Experience the Navagio Shipwreck from Both Land and Sea

Boat trips to Navagio Beach usually leave from the nearby Porto Vromi harbor. You can go there and attempt to organize a boat rental on the spot, but it’s typically advisable to book a tour package online.

Navagio Beach is overcrowded during the day due to an influx of tourists and boats. The only way to avoid the crowds in the summer is to arrive before 8 AM or after 6 PM.

However, it remains a lovely beach and the rusty shipwreck is an enjoyable sight from close up!

Discover Navagio Beach: A Must-See Destination

Reserve Your Spot for a Private Tour of Navagio Beach & Blue Caves Today!

Maravelia’s Secret Cave of Treasures

This cave on Zakynthos island was one of our top choices out of the many amazing ones.

The Maravelia Cave, also called the Hidden Treasure Cave, can be found along the coastline near the shipwreck beach and is accessible only by boat.

The cave can only accommodate one small boat at a time, and it is exclusively visited by private boat tours, while shared tours do not include it in their itinerary.

In order to enter the cave, you will need to disembark from your boat and scale the smooth rocks at the water’s edge near the entrance.

Be cautious of the slippery rocks due to the sea water, and don’t forget to watch your step! The Hidden Treasure Cave boasts a lofty ceiling with a top opening that allows sunlight to pour in, creating a stunningly beautiful and photogenic environment throughout the entire cave.

This hidden spot in Zakinthos may not be well-known yet, but it was definitely one of our favorites!

Reserve Your Spot for a Private Boat Tour in Zakynthos

• The Myzithres Rock Formation

One of the most breathtaking and underappreciated spots in Zakynthos, Greece: stunning white cliffs and secluded beaches on either side.

Explore the Myzithres Rocks on the southwest corner of Zakynthos island by either viewing them from the cliffs above or taking a boat directly from Keri Harbor to land on the beach!

Enjoy breathtaking views and a meal at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant, located on the cliffs above. While it may be a bit pricey, the stunning views make it worth it. The best time to visit is in the afternoon until sunset for a memorable dining experience and photo opportunities.

Option 1: Take a stroll further along the road to admire the Myzithres Rocks without encountering any crowds, but exercise caution near the edge as the cliff could be unstable.

Secure Your Spot Now for the Myzithres Viewpoint Tour

Marathonisi: The Beautiful Island in the Ionian Sea

Marathonisi, also known as ‘turtle island,’ is a small island located near the southern coast of Zakynthos. A portion of the island is designated as a protected area for the breeding of loggerhead sea turtles.

This island has a beautiful beach with clear water on the front side, and there are a couple of caves on the south side that can be entered with a small boat. Although it’s a fantastic island, it’s getting quite crowded.

Explore Marathonisi Island and Keri Caves on a half-day tour from Keri Harbor, or take a boat taxi from nearby locations like Laganas Beach.

Reserve Your Spot for the Marathonisi Island & Keri Caves Tour

• Exploring the Keri Caves

Explore the Keri Caves and nearby attractions on a half-day boat tour, which may also include visits to Marathonisi Island and the Myzithres Rocks.

Exploring the caves reveals a striking blue glow in the water, reminiscent of Gatorade, that appears almost surreal. Capturing this phenomenon on camera is challenging, and small boats allow for a closer look at the caves.

There are also a number of pebble beaches and two rock arches along this coastline that your boat captain can navigate through if they’re feeling adventurous!

In general, the Keri Caves stood out as one of the most enjoyable spots in southern Zakynthos for us.

Reserve Your Spot: Tour of Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island

Exploring the Blue Caves

A cluster of tiny caves located on the northern edge of Zakynthos island, accessible by boat from the harbor of Agios Nikolaos.

Explore the Vibrant Caves of Zakynthos by Boat

The Blue Caves tour in Zakynthos is usually shorter than other boat tours, but it is also more affordable, making it a great value!

Reserve Your Spot: Tour of the Blue Caves and Navagio Beach

“Discover the Beauty of Plakaki Beach”

This perspective remains somewhat undiscovered in Zakynthos, offering stunning vistas of the coastline and the deep blue waters the Mediterranean Sea is renowned for.

A somewhat challenging hike leads to a beautiful swimming spot at the base of the cliff, making it unsuitable for children or the elderly due to unfinished rock paths and steep sections.

Once the accessibility improves, I believe this location will become a standout feature of Zakynthos island. It certainly offers some of the most stunning views we’ve encountered.

Potamitis Observation Point

Potamitis offers a different perspective with a charming restaurant, a windmill, and convenient road access. It is situated at the northern tip of Zakynthos island.

Enjoy the scenic staircase leading to the seaside, where you can observe the tour boats at the Blue Caves. The view is lovely, and there are sunbeds available for relaxation.

The restaurant did not require us to make a purchase before taking pictures at the viewpoint, despite what we had heard. The restaurant also has good ratings, so I believe it is definitely worth a visit!

Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Skopiotissa

A medieval church atop Skopos mountain in southeast Zante, at a height of 543 meters (1,782 ft), is surrounded by the ancient ruins of an even older monastery. It feels like a journey through history.

Options:
1. Accessing the church can be done by driving or hiking, however, the path to the top of the mountain is a challenging gravel road. We managed to get there in a rental car, but the journey was not very comfortable. If you choose to hike, be sure to bring a hat and plenty of water.

It is recommended to approach from the northeast side if you are driving, as the road from Kalamaki is reportedly in worse condition and may require a 4×4 vehicle.

Visitors can experience the tranquility and uniqueness of the monastery’s atmosphere, with the opportunity to view beautiful frescoes and sign the guestbook when the main building is open during the daytime.

Beautiful panoramic views of Zakynthos island with a good breeze, and the possibility of seeing Kefalonia in the distance. It seems like a perfect spot for watching the sunset, although we didn’t stay until then.

Explore the rocky summit behind the monastery for enhanced views of the area! The climbing path begins on the southeast side of the rocks and includes a helpful rope for assistance.

Overall, this location is a genuine hidden treasure in Zakinthos, and the majority of individuals are still unaware of its existence!

Pelagaki Beach: A Beautiful Destination for Sun and Sand Seekers

This particular beach in Zakynthos is unique due to its snow white pebbles and clear water, setting it apart from the numerous other beaches on the island. It bears resemblance to the picturesque beaches in Kefalonia, Greece.

A serene and less crowded beach in Zakynthos without music or sunbeds, but occasionally disturbed by noisy tourist boats. A small canteen at the hilltop offers food and drinks.

The beach is stunning whether viewed from above or below, and can be accessed by hiking down a steep dirt path in approximately 5 minutes. Despite its challenging access, the beach’s beauty makes it a worthwhile destination!

Korakonissi Beach

One of the most unique spots in Zakynthos, Greece, could be this beach.

In reality, it’s not exactly a beach; rather, it’s a small rocky peninsula with a natural arch and some tide pools for swimming.

Caution: Uneven and steep path to water with great views of Korakonissi, not suitable for children or older individuals. Accessible in approximately 5 minutes.

Three options for swimming: the tide pool on the right, the open sea on the left, or inside the cave beneath the arch.

The stunning location offers unique perspectives when climbing the rocks, providing breathtaking views of the surroundings. The water within the cave displays an incredibly vibrant blue hue.

Limited parking available, so it’s best to arrive early if you can. The road becomes steep and turns into gravel towards the end, so you may need to park before reaching the bottom, depending on your vehicle.

Come and enjoy Greek food at the cafe in the parking lot, where you can also take in some nice views and find reasonable prices.

Top Photo Spots in Zakynthos

Top Photo Spots in Zakynthos, Greece: Navagio Viewpoint, Myzithres Rocks, and Plakaki Beach

For a limited time in Zakynthos, prioritize Navagio and the Keri Caves for your boat tours. These are located on different sides of the island, so you might need to allocate two separate days for each, but we found the Keri Caves tour to be even more impressive than the Blue Caves! It’s also a longer tour, providing more time to soak in the beautiful scenery.

Capturing Stunning Aerial Photos on the West Coast of Zakynthos Island with a Drone

Greece’s Attitude Towards Drones and EU Regulations

Top Beaches in Zakynthos

Zakynthos Beaches: A Honest Comparison with Kefalonia Island and Tips for Avoiding Crowds

Explore Sandy and Scenic Beaches in Zakynthos

Navagio Beach is renowned for its stunning views, beautiful sand, and clear water, but it tends to be busy with both boats and visitors.

Map of Zakynthos Island

Discover a Zakynthos island map to help you plan your travels in Greece.

Explore the map by clicking on the icons to access additional information and directions for each point of interest. Please note that the locations may be approximate.

Land attractions are indicated in blue, while harbors and nearby sea attractions are indicated in orange.

Top Location to Watch the Sunset in Zakynthos

There are plenty of great sunset spots to enjoy on the long west-facing coastline of Zakynthos island.

One of the top spots to see the sunset is at the Navagio Viewpoint (located above the beach), providing the perfect opportunity to capture a wide panoramic photo of the beach and the sunset together.

Our preferred location for a peaceful sunset was at the cross near the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, which is conveniently close to the shipwreck viewpoint.

Discover the perfect spot to watch the sunset by walking along the path behind the monastery for approximately 150 meters. It is a beautiful location that you will likely have all to yourself!

Experience a breathtaking sunset view while enjoying dinner at Aeras Taverna, Porto Schiza Restaurant, Cross Taverna, or the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant in Zakinthos.

These restaurants and sunset spots are situated on the western side of the island, so you’ll need to do some driving if you’re coming from town.

You can also book tours which will transport you to some of the best sunset spots in Zakynthos and take care of all the transportation for you.

Reserve Your Spot for the Romantic Agalas Sunset Tour

Items to Bring

Check out these recommended items to pack for your upcoming trip to Zakynthos, Greece.

You can likely find most of these items on the island in a pinch, but the quality of street-purchased goods may not be reliable (I personally wouldn’t trust a cheap knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera equipment).

Consider purchasing verified products on the internet for the best results!

Necessary Items for Protecting Your Electronics and Feet on Boat Trips

– Additional Suggestions for Visiting Zakynthos

Paying for Expenses in Zakynthos: Tips on Using Credit Cards, ATMs, and Cell Service

Improving Internet Quality and Other Practical Information for Visitors to Zakynthos Island

Is Zakynthos a safe destination for travelers?

Is it safe to visit Zakynthos? The answer is yes!

Greece’s homicide rate is among the lowest in the world. By taking standard precautions, you should not encounter any crime-related problems.

The people in Zakynthos are incredibly welcoming, especially when you venture out of the bustling town and visit the peaceful villages in the countryside.

Should I consider visiting Zakynthos?

If you’re still undecided, then absolutely, Zakynthos is worth visiting!

Experience the Beauty of a Greek Island with Delicious Cuisine, Friendly Locals, and Stunning Landscapes. Enjoy a Romantic Dinner overlooking the Cliffs at Sunset or Embark on a Boat Tour to Explore a Sea Cave. Don’t Miss the Famous Navagio Beach, a Must-See Destination.

Zakynthos remains a quintessential Greek island despite the summer tourist crowds. It is also conveniently accessible from Athens and the infrastructure is continuously improving.

Duration of Stay

Zakynthos Greece offers numerous enjoyable activities. It is recommended to spend at least 3 days to fully experience the best highlights, but a week would be even better.

We spent a fortnight in Zakynthos and could have easily discovered more activities if we had extended our stay.

Zakynthos Travel Plan

A suggested itinerary for a 4-day trip to Zakinthos island with a car rental

Itinerary for Exploring Zakynthos Island
Day 1: Begin your adventure in Northwest Zakynthos with a visit to the Navagio Beach viewpoint to see the famous shipwreck from above. Then, stop at a nearby monastery before heading to Porto Vromi for a boat tour of the shipwreck beach and nearby caves. Relax at Porto Limnionas Beach or Korakonissi, and then enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2: Explore North Zakynthos by driving to Agios Nikolaos Harbor to rent a boat and visit the Blue Caves. Then, head to the Potamitis Viewpoint and descend the stairs by the ocean. Finish the day at Pelagaki Beach or Xigia Sulfur Beach.
Day 3: Discover Southwest Zakynthos by driving to Keri Lake Harbor and renting a boat to visit Marathonisi Island, Keri Caves, and Myzithres Beach. Then, visit Plakaki Viewpoint and hike down to the beach (if you’re able). Complete the day by enjoying the sunset at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant.
Day 4: For a more adventurous day, hike or drive up the steep gravel road to Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa and take in the historic buildings and panoramic views of Zakynthos island. Then, relax at Banana Beach, Porto Zorro, or one of the many other beaches in the area. If time allows, visit the Cameo Island Beach Bar.

Feel free to ask any questions about your trip to Zakynthos and I hope this sample itinerary provides some inspiration for your own travel plans!

Hotels in Zakynthos

Ideal Timing for a Trip to Zakynthos, Greece

When is the ideal time to visit Zakinthos island?

July and August are the peak months of summer in Greece, with Zakynthos experiencing daytime temperatures of up to 32 °C (91 °F) and nighttime lows of 21 °C (70 °F). This makes it an ideal time for swimming and beach lounging, but also means an increase in tourist activity during this period.

Zakynthos experiences a relatively mild winter with increased precipitation, cooler temperatures, and more cloudy days. The high temperatures average around 14 °C (57 °F) and the lows around 8 °C (46 °F). During this time, there are fewer boat and tour options available, but it could be a good opportunity to find discounted hotel rates and other deals.

No matter when you choose to travel to Zante, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience!

Explore More Travel Guides for Greece

We appreciate you taking the time to read this! I hope you found this travel guide to Zakynthos island in Greece enjoyable.

Stay tuned for additional travel guides to the Greek islands that will be available soon! Be sure to revisit our site for updates!

Have a joyful journey!