Zakynthos Island (also known as Zante) is one of the most beautiful and popular islands in Greece, famous for its turquoise water, white sand beaches, and green hills. Zakynthos is also home to the iconic Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), where a rusty ship lies on a secluded cove, surrounded by cliffs. But there is more to Zakynthos than just Navagio Beach. You can also explore the island’s rich culture, history, and nature, and discover its hidden gems and secrets. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the most important things to know before you visit Zakynthos Island, how to get there, what to do and see, and where to eat and stay.
How to Get to Zakynthos Island
The easiest way to get to Zakynthos Island is by flying to the Zakynthos Airport (ZTH), which is about 6 km from the main town of Zakynthos. You can take a taxi or a bus to reach your accommodation. The airport is served by domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as international flights from many European cities, especially during the summer season.
Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Zakynthos Island from the port of Kyllini, which is about 280 km from Athens. You can drive or take a bus to Kyllini, and then board a ferry to Zakynthos. The ferry ride takes about 1 hour, and it costs about 10 Euros per person and 40 Euros per car. The ferry arrives at the port of Zakynthos, which is close to the town center.
When to Visit Zakynthos Island
The best time to visit Zakynthos Island depends on your preferences and budget. Zakynthos Island is a year-round destination, but each season has its pros and cons.
- Spring: Spring is a lovely time to visit Zakynthos Island, as the weather is mild and sunny, and the flowers are blooming. You can enjoy walking, cycling, or hiking around the island, and see the Easter celebrations. However, spring is also a busy season, and you can expect crowds and higher prices.
- Summer: Summer is the peak season for Zakynthos Island, as it attracts many tourists who want to enjoy the warm and sunny weather. You can also enjoy many events and festivals, such as the Zakynthos Carnival, the Zakynthos Wine Festival, and the Zakynthos Music Festival. However, summer is also very hot and humid, and you can expect long lines and higher prices.
- Autumn: Autumn is another beautiful time to visit Zakynthos Island, as the weather is cool and pleasant, and the leaves are changing colors. You can also enjoy the harvest season and the wine festivals, such as the Zakynthos Grape Festival and the Zakynthos Wine Festival. However, autumn is also a rainy season, and you can expect some showers and cloudy days.
- Winter: Winter is the low season for Zakynthos Island, as it attracts fewer tourists who want to avoid the cold and snowy weather. You can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds, and see the Christmas markets and the New Year’s Eve celebrations. However, winter is also very cold and dark, and some attractions and facilities may be closed or have reduced hours.
What to Do and See in Zakynthos Island
Zakynthos Island is a place where you can never get bored, as it offers a variety of activities and attractions for all tastes and ages. Here are some of the must-do and must-see things in Zakynthos Island:
- Visit Navagio Beach: Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) is the most famous and visited attraction in Zakynthos Island, and one of the most photographed places in the world. It is a stunning beach with white sand and turquoise water, where a rusty ship lies on a secluded cove, surrounded by cliffs. You can visit Navagio Beach by boat from various ports around the island, such as Agios Nikolaos, Porto Vromi, or Zakynthos Town. The boat ride takes about 20 to 40 minutes, and it costs about 15 to 30 Euros per person. You can also see Navagio Beach from above, by driving or hiking to a viewpoint on the cliffs. The viewpoint is located near the village of Anafonitria, and it offers a breathtaking view of the beach and the sea.
- Explore the Blue Caves: The Blue Caves are another amazing attraction in Zakynthos Island, where you can see the natural phenomenon of the blue reflection of the water on the rocks and the caves. You can explore the Blue Caves by boat from various ports around the island, such as Agios Nikolaos, Makris Gialos, or Skinari. The boat ride takes about 10 to 20 minutes, and it costs about 10 to 20 Euros per person. You can also snorkel, swim, or dive in the Blue Caves, and see the colorful marine life and the underwater formations.
- See the Turtles on Marathonisi Island: Marathonisi Island (Turtle Island) is a small and uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas, which is the main nesting site of the endangered sea turtle species Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead Turtle). You can see the turtles on Marathonisi Island by boat from various ports around the island, such as Laganas, Keri, or Agios Sostis. The boat ride takes about 10 to 20 minutes, and it costs about 10 to 20 Euros per person. You can also kayak, paddle board, or swim around the island, and see the turtles in their natural habitat.
- Visit the Venetian Castle: The Venetian Castle is a historical and cultural attraction in Zakynthos Island, located on a hill above the town of Zakynthos. It was built by the Venetians in the 15th century, and it was the seat of the Venetian administration and the residence of the nobles. You can visit the Venetian Castle by car, bus, or foot, and see the ruins of the walls, the gates, the barracks, the churches, and the museum. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the town and the sea.
