When we go away for rest and relaxation, there are several items that are on our wishlist. And believe it or not, they’re pretty simple – good weather, food, pretty scenery and plenty to occupy the whole family. After all, when the kids are happy, then so are we.
On our trip to Zakynthos in Greece, the boxes were ticked off quickly, and the one thing that continually took my breath away was the island’s turquoise waters. The exquisite colour of the sea, coupled with Zakynthos’ charming qualities, meant that in only a short space of time, we really did feel like we got to the heart of the island.
This sun-drenched Greek island in the Ionian Sea offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the waves, cultural experiences in olive grove-covered hillsides, or simply the perfect beach to unwind, Zakynthos delivers. The sea plays a big part in many activities on Zakynthos, so if you have water babies, then you’re in for a treat. But back on dry land, there are also many other things to see and explore.
Here’s my ultimate 2026 guide to the best things to do in Zakynthos.
Take a boat trip to hidden coves
From private boat tours to group excursions, there are many ways to explore the azure waters of Zakynthos. While private tours are much more bespoke and less crowded, they’re also very pricey. However, some of the larger boat companies, such as the one we went on, don’t overfill their vessels and are proactive in being kinder to the environment.
Not only is it worth taking a boat trip to explore the many bays and coves Zakynthos has, but you can also see loggerhead turtles and shipwrecks – the famous being on Navagio Beach, which is home to a smuggler’s boat! Most boat trips combine multiple highlights in one journey. You’ll typically visit Navagio Beach, cruise through the Blue Caves, and stop for swimming in crystal clear waters.
Departure points: Porto Vromi (closest to Navagio), Agios Nikolaos, Zakynthos Town
Duration: 2-3 hours for standard tours, full-day options available
Cost: Group tours from €30-50, private tours from €200+
Best for: Families, couples, anyone wanting to see the island from the sea
The eco-friendly tours also incorporate responsible turtle spotting in protected areas of the National Marine Park. Choose operators that respect wildlife guidelines and don’t use glass-bottomed boats, which can confuse turtles underwater.
Visit iconic Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
Navagio Beach is possibly the most famous beach in all of Greece, and certainly Zakynthos’ most iconic sight. Surrounded by towering white limestone cliffs and home to the rusting wreck of a smuggler’s ship from 1980, it’s absolutely breathtaking. This isolated cove has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world multiple times.
Important update: The beach is currently closed to entry due to rockslide safety concerns following cliff collapses in 2018 and 2022. Experts from the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation continue to monitor the situation. However, boat tours can still approach the cove, allowing you to admire this spectacular location from the water and photograph the famous shipwreck against the turquoise bay.
For the best views, visit the Navagio Viewpoint accessible by car from Volimes village. The clifftop platform offers breathtaking panoramic views 200 metres above the beach. It’s one of those views that genuinely takes your breath away. Arrive before 9am or after 6pm to avoid long queues – the viewpoint can have wait times of 1-2 hours during peak summer months.
Access: Boat only (20 minutes from Porto Vromi, 45 minutes from Agios Nikolaos)
Viewpoint location: Near Volimes village, northwest coast
Facilities: Small parking area, canteen, basic toilets at the viewpoint
Best photo time: Late morning when the sun illuminates the beach
Explore the magical Blue Caves
The Blue Caves, which lie at the tip of Zakynthos’ peninsula, are probably one of the island’s most popular natural attractions. Discovered by Antonio Komouto in 1897, these magnificent white limestone arches and caves take their name from the reflections of the sun off the seafloor, giving the water its distinctive azure colour – and you can reach them by boat.
The caves are actually white limestone, but when sunlight refracts through the crystal clear water, they appear to glow an otherworldly bright blue. The best time to visit is early to mid-morning when the light creates the most spectacular turquoise shimmer. It’s absolutely mesmerising.
It’s also a popular diving and snorkelling spot. Smaller boats can enter the caves for a closer look, while larger tour vessels stay outside but still offer incredible views. If you can, opt for a smaller boat experience – being inside the caves with water glowing all around you is magical. Many boat tours combine the Blue Caves with Navagio Beach in one unforgettable trip.
Best viewing time: 8-11am for optimal light refraction
Access: Boat tours from Agios Nikolaos, Cape Skinari area
Duration: 30-45 minutes at the caves
Tip: Bring a waterproof camera for underwater photos in the luminous water
Discover Zakynthos’ stunning beaches
There are over 25 beaches in Zakynthos, which stretch across the coastline, offering sandy fun, watersports and incredible views. Each beach has its own character, from family-friendly organised beaches to wild protected coves.
Banana Beach
Our favourite included Banana Beach, which not only has wooden walkways that are brilliant for pushchairs but also great facilities, including restaurants and luxurious sun loungers. This stretch of golden sand on the southeastern coast is perfect for families, with calm, shallow waters ideal for children.
The beach gets its quirky name from its long, curved shape. Water sports are big here – parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are all available. There’s even a beach volleyball court. Public buses run here regularly from nearby resorts, making it easy to access.
Location: Vasilikos peninsula, southeast coast
Facilities: Restaurants, sunbed rental, toilets, showers, parking
Best for: Families with children, water sports enthusiasts
Water sports: Parasailing from €50, jet ski from €60 per 30 minutes
Gerakas Beach
Gerakas Beach is another must-visit, especially if you’re interested in sea turtle conservation. Part of the National Marine Park, this long sandy beach in a protected cove is a major nesting site for loggerhead turtles. No umbrellas or sunbeds are allowed here to protect the turtles, so bring your own shade.
We watched over 50 baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea here one morning. A magical moment only witnessed by about 15 of us who made it before sunrise that day. This was made even more special because we had taken our eldest to the Turtle Rescue Centre close by to learn more about them beforehand.
Location: Southeast tip of the island
Facilities: Basic – no sunbeds, bring your own supplies
Access: Road access with parking, sometimes monitored by conservation guards
Best time: Early morning, especially June-August for possible turtle sightings
Porto Limnionas
Porto Limnionas is a dramatic cove surrounded by jagged limestone cliffs, ideal for swimming and snorkelling in crystal clear waters. There’s no sandy beach here – instead, flat rocks provide sunbathing spots and steps lead down into the incredibly clear turquoise water. A small family-run taverna perched on the rocks serves fresh seafood and cold drinks.
Location: West coast, south of the Blue Caves
Facilities: One taverna, limited parking (arrive early)
Best for: Snorkelling, swimming, dramatic scenery
Tip: Bring water shoes as entry is over rocks
Other beaches worth visiting
Laganas Beach is the island’s longest beach at over 5km, bustling with activity and water sports. While popular with the party crowd, it’s also an important turtle nesting area with designated protected zones.
Xigia Beach offers something unique – natural sulphur springs that give the water therapeutic properties. You can literally smell the sulphur as you approach this beautiful beach with its healing mineral-rich waters. The springs are believed to have benefits for skin conditions.
Dafni Beach is another protected turtle nesting beach in the National Marine Park. Less visited than Gerakas, it offers a more secluded experience with the same conservation importance.
As mentioned above, there are so many beautiful beach spots on Zakynthos, it will be impossible not to find one that will impress. For complete details on all the beaches, check out my Zakynthos beaches guide.
Go turtle spotting with loggerhead turtles
Zakynthos is home to the largest nesting site of the endangered loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) in the entire Mediterranean. Via boat or on the beach, the chances of seeing them during the months from May to October are high. These ancient creatures return to the same beaches where they were born to lay their own eggs, making Zakynthos incredibly important for their survival.
And while there is still huge debate about whether tourism and protecting these amazing creatures really go hand in hand, I do know that there are many organisations, including the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, who are educating visitors about their actions – including us on our boat trip.
We specifically chose an eco-friendly tour, not a glass-bottomed boat, which confuses turtles below the surface. The National Marine Park of Zakynthos protects the breeding grounds in Laganas Bay. If you’re snorkelling or swimming in protected areas like Gerakas Beach, Dafni Beach or Marathonisi Island (Turtle Island), you might spot turtles in their natural habitat.
Always maintain a respectful distance and never touch or chase them. At Agios Sostis harbour, there are sometimes two resident turtles that can be spotted being fed – you can see them from the shore.
Best turtle-spotting beaches: Gerakas, Laganas Bay, Marathonisi Island
Season: May-October (peak nesting: June-August)
Turtle Rescue Centre: Free entry near Gerakas, donations welcome
Conservation rules: Stay 10 metres away, no flash photography, no touching
The Turtle Centre (Rescue Centre) is free to enter and provides fascinating information about conservation efforts. You’ll learn about the threats these endangered creatures face and what’s being done to protect them. It’s definitely worth a visit before going turtle spotting to understand the importance of responsible wildlife viewing.
Visit a waterpark for thrills and spills
Not that there isn’t enough watery fun in Zakynthos! However, if you’re looking for more thrills and spills, then perhaps a day trip to a waterpark will offer just that. These make a great break from beach days, especially for families with children who want variety.
There are two waterparks on the island. Water Village in the southeastern part of Zakynthos has a family tower where you can race one another to see who reaches the bottom first, while there are several children’s areas which are suitable for younger guests. There’s everything from gentle slides for toddlers to adrenaline-pumping kamikaze slides for brave older kids and adults.
Tsilivi Waterpark, which is on the beach of the same name, also has countless slides, including Turbolance and the Black Hole! There’s even a pirate ship for little ones to play in. Both parks have plenty of loungers, snack bars, and shaded areas for when you need a break from the action.
Location: Water Village near Sarakinado, Tsilivi Waterpark in Tsilivi resort
Opening: May-September, typically 10am-6pm
Cost: Around €25-30 adults, €15-20 children
Facilities: Lockers, changing rooms, cafés, sunbeds
Tip: Arrive early to secure good sunbeds and avoid queues for popular slides
Explore charming Zakynthos Town
A trip to Zakynthos wouldn’t be complete without spending time in the island’s capital. Zakynthos Town (also called Zante Town) blends Venetian architecture, local culture, and a lively waterfront atmosphere. The entire town had to be rebuilt after the devastating 1953 earthquake, which destroyed most buildings on the island.
Solomos Square is the heart of the town, named after the Greek poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote the Greek national anthem “Hymn to Liberty”. The square is surrounded by cafés, museums, and the impressive Agios Nikolaos Molos church – one of the only buildings that survived the earthquake.
By chance, we also came across the church dedicated to the patron saint of Zakynthos, Agios Dionysios. It preserves the relics of the saint and also has a museum with Christian artefacts. The intricate detailing inside the church is well worth a look. The church’s impressive bell tower is the tallest structure in town and can be seen from the harbour. Ladies wearing shorts or short skirts are offered scarves to cover up before entering, which is standard practice at Greek Orthodox churches.
The Byzantine Museum houses art from famous Greek painters, including Katouzis and Damaskinos, as well as Byzantine statues and sculptures. Photography is not allowed inside to preserve the ancient works. If you want to discover more about one of the leading political families on the island, visitors can also tour the Roma Mansion, which is one of the very few surviving properties after the 1953 earthquake and subsequent fire, which destroyed the town.
Take time to wander the narrow streets lined with shops selling olive oil, local honey, and traditional handicrafts. The waterfront promenade is perfect for an evening stroll, with numerous tavernas serving fresh seafood and mezze. This is where locals and visitors mix, creating a lovely, authentic atmosphere.
Free attractions: Solomos Square, Agios Dionysios Church, waterfront walk, browsing local shops
Museum entry: €3-6 per person
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat
Parking: Available near the port, can be busy in summer
Sample authentic Greek food (starting with gyros!)
What is essentially a Greek kebab, gyros is traditionally made up of pork, which is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Served in pitta bread with salad and French fries, it really is a quick, tasty meal for the whole family. Think of it as Greece’s answer to fast food, except it’s actually fresh and delicious.
My boys loved it! And we spent some time sampling them when we were out and about – a favourite being Zorbas in Zakynthos Town. It was fresh and delicious, and the owner was so welcoming to us. We ended up going back twice during our stay.
Don’t miss trying other traditional Greek dishes like my favourite, moussaka (layered aubergine, meat and béchamel), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and fresh Greek salads with creamy feta cheese. The island’s coastal location means incredibly fresh seafood everywhere you look – grilled octopus, calamari, and sea bream are local specialities. Pair your meal with local wine from Zakynthos’ vineyards or a cold Mythos beer. We also loved going to our local bakery to get freshly baked spanakopita (pastry wrapped around spinach and feta).
For a really authentic experience, head to family-run tavernas in mountain villages where recipes have been passed down through generations. You’ll find hearty stews, slow-cooked lamb, and vegetables fresh from local gardens.
Must-try dishes: Gyros (€3-5), fresh grilled fish (€12-18 per kg), Greek salad (€5-7), moussaka (€8-10)
Local speciality: Zakynthian rabbit stew (stifado)
Tip: “Mezze” (small sharing plates) are perfect for trying multiple dishes
Enjoy snorkelling in the National Marine Park
Because much of the sea surrounding Zakynthos is protected by the National Marine Park, there is an abundance of great snorkelling hotspots. And with shallow and calm waters at many of Zakynthos’ beaches, even novice snorkellers like Monkey can practice and have a go in relative safety.
We spent a lot of time snorkelling and trying to spot as much marine life as possible around Vasilikos, where we were staying. The water clarity is exceptional – you can see 20-30 metres in good conditions. There are too many spots to list, but Porto Limnionas, Marathonisi and Plakaki are all known for their fantastic snorkelling.
Keri Caves on the southwestern coast are worth a visit for more deep-sea diving experiences. The underwater visibility is excellent, and you’ll spot colourful fish, sea urchins, starfish, and, with luck, loggerhead turtles gliding gracefully through the water. The Blue Caves are also spectacular for snorkelling when conditions allow.
Best snorkelling spots: Porto Limnionas, Keri Caves, Marathonisi Island, Blue Caves area, Plakaki
Equipment: Available to rent at most beaches (€5-10), or bring your own
Marine life: Sea turtles, octopus, sea urchins, colourful fish species
Important: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem
Experience the dramatic Keri Caves
The Keri Caves on the southwestern coast offer another spectacular boat adventure. These impressive sea caves feature deep blue waters and dramatic rock formations carved by centuries of wave erosion. While less famous than the Blue Caves, they’re equally beautiful and often less crowded – which means you can enjoy them without fighting for space.
The caves are located near the fishing village of Limni Keri. Many boat tours departing from here include stops for swimming and snorkelling in the caves’ crystal clear waters. Some tours also visit the nearby Mizithres rocks – two distinctive tall limestone pillars rising dramatically from the sea that make for stunning photos.
Don’t miss the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant perched on the clifftops above the caves. It offers spectacular sunset views across the endless Ionian Sea while you enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and local wine. The restaurant sits at the southwestern tip of the island, providing uninterrupted sunset vistas.
Access: Boat tours from Limni Keri harbour
Duration: Half-day tours typically 3-4 hours, including swimming stops
Combine with: Marathonisi Island, Mizithres rocks, Cameo Island Cost: Tours from €25-40 per person
Discover traditional mountain villages
While Zakynthos is famous for its beaches, the island’s mountainous interior offers a completely different and equally rewarding experience. Traditional villages like Volimes, Anafonitria, and Kiliomeno provide a glimpse into authentic island life, far from the tourist crowds on the coast.
The hillsides are covered with ancient olive groves, some trees hundreds of years old, producing some of the finest extra virgin olive oil in Greece. The landscape is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers carpet the hillsides, and everything is lush and green. Many villages have small family-run shops where you can buy locally produced olive oil, honey, and wine – perfect souvenirs that capture the true flavour of Zakynthos.
Visit a traditional taverna in one of these villages for a slower-paced meal where locals still gather for long lunches. The food is simple but delicious – usually whatever’s been cooked in the family kitchen that day. The cooler mountain air and stunning views across the island make these villages perfect for afternoon exploration when the beaches get crowded.
Look out for the beautiful stone bell towers attached to village churches – they’re architectural features typical of Zakynthos. Many villages also have small folk museums displaying traditional life and handicrafts.
Villages to visit: Volimes (near Navagio viewpoint), Anafonitria (with monastery), Exo Chora, Kiliomeno
What to buy: Extra virgin olive oil, mountain honey, local wine, traditional textiles
Best time: Afternoon when coastal areas get crowded, or early morning for photography
Dress: Modest clothing if visiting churches or monasteries
Enjoy some culture in island museums
Museums may not instantly spring to mind when you think of activities on a Greek island, but Zakynthos is home to a few interesting ones that provide valuable context to what you’re seeing around the island.
The Solomos Museum is dedicated to the Greek poet Dionysios Solomos, author of the Greek national anthem “Hymn to Liberty”. The museum showcases manuscripts, personal belongings, and exhibits about this important literary figure who shaped modern Greek identity. It’s housed in a neoclassical building on Solomos Square.
The Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos houses an impressive collection of religious art, icons, and frescoes from famous Greek painters. Post-Byzantine ecclesiastical art fills the galleries, offering insight into the island’s rich spiritual heritage. Many of these priceless artworks were rescued from churches destroyed in the 1953 earthquake.
For nature lovers, the Helmis Museum of Natural History in the mountain village of Agia Marina presents the rare flora, fauna, and marine life of Zakynthos through extensive collections and educational exhibits. It’s particularly interesting if you want to identify the birds, plants, and sea creatures you’ve spotted during your visit.
Combined ticket: Often available for Solomos and Byzantine museums at reduced price
Opening hours: Usually 8:30am-3pm, closed Mondays (check ahead)
Entry: €3-6 per museum
Photography: Usually not permitted inside to preserve artworks
Play crazy golf with the family
Perhaps it’s because I played crazy golf a lot during the holidays of my childhood, but it’s impossible for me to walk past a crazy golf course and not have a game. Great fun for the whole family, we’re big fans. And Zakynthos has some particularly elaborate courses.
In Zakynthos, there are a few options. Fantasy Mini Golf in Tsilivi is an epic, crazy golf course which has 18 holes covering four acres in landscaped gardens with ponds, rivers, waterfalls, fountains and even an erupting volcano! It’s beautifully maintained and makes for a fun evening activity when the sun isn’t quite so fierce.
World Tour Mini Golf and Kalamaki Crazy Golf also offer up golfing entertainment. These attractions are perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a relaxed evening activity away from the beach. It’s also a good rainy day option if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Location: Primarily in Tsilivi and Kalamaki resorts
Cost: Around €10-15 per person
Best time: Evening around 6-8pm when temperatures cool down
Duration: Allow 1-1.5 hours to complete a round
Tip: Book ahead in peak summer season to avoid disappointment
Visit Marathonisi Island (Turtle Island)
Marathonisi Island, affectionately known as Turtle Island, is a small uninhabited islet just off the coast near Laganas. From certain angles, the island’s shape resembles a turtle, which, along with being a major nesting site, explains the nickname. Boat trips departing from Laganas, Keri, or Agios Sostis take you to this protected paradise.
The island has two beautiful beaches – one sandy, one pebbly – both with crystal clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. As a protected turtle nesting area within the National Marine Park, the island has strict environmental rules. No permanent structures are allowed, which ensures the beaches remain pristine and undeveloped. It feels like a deserted paradise.
The boat ride across typically takes just 10-15 minutes. Many tours combine Marathonisi with visits to the Keri Caves and other swimming spots, making it a full morning or afternoon adventure. The shallow protected waters around the island are prime turtle territory, so keep your eyes open while swimming.
Access: Boat trips from Laganas, Keri, Agios Sostis harbours
Duration: Tours typically allow 1-2 hours on the island
Cost: Around €15-25 per person including boat transfer
Important: No facilities on the island – bring water, snacks, and sun protection
Rules: No anchoring in designated areas, respect nesting zones
Try wine tasting at local vineyards
Zakynthos has a long winemaking tradition dating back thousands of years, and several wineries offer tours and tastings that showcase the island’s unique terroir. Solomos Winery at the foot of the historic Venetian Castle is particularly atmospheric, with the family making wines in this location for four generations. The setting alone is worth the visit.
They specialise in native grape varieties unique to the Ionian Islands that you won’t find elsewhere. A typical tasting includes 3-5 wines paired with local cheeses, olives, cured meats, and crusty bread. You’ll learn about traditional winemaking methods that have been passed down through generations while enjoying panoramic views across vineyards and olive groves.
The island’s white wines, particularly those from the Robola grape variety, pair beautifully with the local seafood cuisine. Red wines made from Avgoustiatis grapes offer full-bodied flavours perfect for the region’s meat dishes and stews. Don’t leave without trying Verdea, a traditional Zakynthian wine that’s been produced for centuries.
Wineries to visit: Solomos Winery (most established), smaller estate vineyards around the island
Cost: Tastings from €10-20 per person
Duration: 1-1.5 hours including tour and tasting
Best time: Late afternoon for sunset views from the vineyards
Tip: Book ahead, especially in summer season
Water sport fun
Zakynthos offers excellent conditions for various water sports thanks to warm waters, steady breezes, and stunning coastal scenery. Banana Beach and Laganas Beach are the main hubs for activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding. The calm conditions make them suitable for beginners.
For something more adventurous, try kayaking along the coast to explore hidden coves and sea caves at your own pace. It’s a fantastic workout and gives you access to places larger boats can’t reach. Several operators offer guided kayaking tours to the Blue Caves or around Cape Skinari, combining paddling with snorkelling and swimming stops.
Scuba diving is popular around the island, with several PADI dive centres offering courses for complete beginners and guided dives for certified divers. The underwater world around Zakynthos includes underwater caves, dramatic drop-offs, rock formations, and abundant marine life. You might spot octopus, cuttlefish, grouper, and with luck, turtles underwater.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing are possible at certain beaches when conditions are right, though Zakynthos isn’t as famous for these sports as some other Greek islands.
Water sports centres: Banana Beach, Laganas, Tsilivi, Alykanas
Jet ski rental: From €50-70 per 30 minutes
Parasailing: From €40-60 per person (10-15 minutes)
Kayak tours: From €35-50 per person (half-day)
Scuba diving: Discover scuba from €60, certified dives from €40
When to visit Zakynthos
The best time to visit Zakynthos is from May to October when the weather is sunny, warm, and perfect for beach days. Here’s what to expect in each season:
Peak season (July-August): Hottest weather averaging 30-33°C, highest accommodation prices, most crowded beaches and attractions, vibrant nightlife scene. This is when turtle nesting activity peaks, but also when you’ll wait longest for photos at Navagio viewpoint. If you love lively atmosphere and don’t mind crowds, this works well.
Shoulder season (May-June, September-October): Considered the sweet spot by many travellers. Temperatures range from 20-28°C, fewer crowds at major attractions, lower accommodation prices (often 30-40% cheaper), and water still warm enough for swimming. Sea temperature is actually warmest in September after months of summer sun. May and September offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Low season (November-April): Cooler and wetter with temperatures 12-18°C and occasional rain. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators close for winter. However, Zakynthos Town remains active year-round with dining and cultural options. Good for budget travellers seeking solitude and don’t mind limited beach activities.
For turtle watching: Visit between May and October, with peak nesting activity from June through August. Early morning beach visits in summer give the best chances of seeing hatchlings.
Getting around Zakynthos
Car rental is the most flexible way to explore Zakynthos, especially if you want to visit hidden beaches, mountain villages, and viewpoints at your own pace. The roads are generally good quality, though some mountain routes can be narrow with hairpin bends. Parking is available at most beaches and attractions, though you may need to arrive early at popular spots in summer.
ATVs and scooters are popular alternatives for couples or solo travellers. They’re fun and convenient for shorter distances, though less stable on winding mountain roads. You’ll need an appropriate licence and insurance.
Public buses run from Zakynthos Town to major resorts like Tsilivi, Alykanas, and Laganas, but services are limited (often just 1-2 per day to smaller villages) and won’t reach many attractions like Navagio viewpoint or Porto Limnionas. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer journeys and aren’t abundant outside the main town.
Boat rental gives you ultimate freedom to explore the stunning coastline, visit caves, and find secluded swimming spots. Small motorboats can be rented from various coastal towns without requiring a licence for smaller engines. This is one of the best ways to experience Zakynthos.
Typical costs:
- Car rental: €25-40 per day, depending on season and vehicle
- Scooter/ATV rental: €15-25 per day
- Boat rental: €80-150 per day for small motorboats (fuel extra)
- Taxi: Around €1.20 per km
Where to stay in Zakynthos
The island offers accommodation for every budget and travel style:
Zakynthos Town: Best for culture lovers and those wanting to be central. Close to the port for ferries, museums, authentic restaurants, and shopping. Lacks direct beach access but great for exploring the island on day trips.
Tsilivi: Popular family-friendly resort on the northeast coast with long sandy beaches, water sports, evening entertainment, and good range of restaurants. Well connected by bus to Zakynthos Town.
Laganas: The party capital with vibrant nightlife, bars, and clubs. Best for young travellers seeking social scene. Very busy and noisy in peak season.
Vasilikos Peninsula: Quieter, more upscale area with several beautiful beaches, including Banana Beach. Great for families seeking relaxation. This is where we stayed at Periyali Villas, which offered excellent facilities.
Kalamaki: Calmer alternative near Laganas with a long sandy beach protected by the National Marine Park. Good for families who want beach convenience without Laganas party scene.
Alykes/Alykanas: Quieter northeast coast resorts with traditional Greek atmosphere. Good beaches, less crowded, more affordable. Popular with families and older couples.
Northern villages: For peace and authenticity, stay near Agios Nikolaos or mountain villages. Stunning views but you’ll need a car.
For more details about where we stayed and why we loved it, check out my full review of Periyali Villas.
Frequently asked questions about Zakynthos
How many days do you need in Zakynthos?
A minimum of 3-4 days lets you see the main highlights, including Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, turtle spotting, and explore a few beaches. However, 5-7 days is ideal to fully experience the island without rushing. This gives you time to visit mountain villages, try different beaches, enjoy leisurely meals, and perhaps take a day trip to nearby Kefalonia.
Is Zakynthos expensive?
Zakynthos is affordable compared to islands like Santorini or Mykonos. Budget travellers can manage on €50-80 per day, including mid-range accommodation, meals at tavernas, and some activities. Luxury travellers should budget €150-200+ per day for upscale hotels and dining. Beach sunbed rental costs €6-10 per day, gyros meals €3-5, taverna dinners €12-20 per person.
Can you swim at Navagio Beach in 2025?
No, Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) is currently closed to entry due to rockslide safety concerns following cliff collapses. The beach has been closed since 2023 and will remain closed for the 2025 season. However, you can still visit by boat to admire from the water (boats can approach but not land), and visit the spectacular clifftop viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views 200m above the beach.
When is the best time to see turtles in Zakynthos?
May through October is turtle season, with peak nesting activity from June to August. Early morning visits to protected beaches like Gerakas, Dafni, and around Marathonisi Island give the best chances of spotting turtles in the water or witnessing tiny hatchlings making their determined way to the sea. We were incredibly lucky to see baby turtles hatching at Gerakas at sunrise – one of the trip highlights.
Do you need a car in Zakynthos?
While not absolutely essential if you’re staying in one resort, a car is highly recommended. Many of the island’s best attractions – hidden beaches, mountain villages, Navagio viewpoint, Porto Limnionas, winery tours – are difficult or impossible to reach by public transport. Car rental gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make the most of your time on the island.
Is Zakynthos good for families?
Absolutely! Zakynthos is excellent for families with its calm shallow beaches, water parks, responsible turtle spotting tours, and family-friendly resorts. Beaches like Banana Beach, Gerakas, and Tsilivi are particularly good for children. The island feels safe, locals are welcoming to families, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained beyond just beach time.
What should I buy as souvenirs in Zakynthos?
Top authentic souvenirs include extra virgin olive oil from centuries-old groves (the island is covered with them), mountain honey (particularly thyme honey), Zakynthian wines from local grape varieties, traditional mandolato (nougat with almonds), natural sea sponges, and local herb products. These make wonderful gifts or treats to bring home. Buy from village shops or direct from producers for the best quality.
How do I get to Zakynthos from the UK?
By air: Many UK airports offer direct seasonal flights (May-October) to Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), taking around 3-3.5 hours. Airlines include TUI, Jet2, and easyJet. In winter, you’ll need to connect through Athens with a domestic flight (approximately 1 hour) or other European hubs.
By ferry: If you’re already in Greece, ferries run from Kyllini port on the Peloponnese (1 hour crossing, frequent daily departures). There are also ferry connections to neighbouring Kefalonia for island hopping in the Ionian Sea.
Are there any day trips from Zakynthos?
Yes! The nearest island is Kefalonia, accessible by ferry (around 1-1.5 hours). Many tour operators offer day trips to see Kefalonia’s highlights, including Myrtos Beach and Melissani Cave. You can also visit the Peloponnese mainland – the ferry to Kyllini takes just an hour, from where you can explore ancient Olympia or charming seaside towns.
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