Holidays in Zakynthos Open left menu Zakynthos What to do in Zakynthos

The island of Zakynthos Greece is a magical corner of beautiful dreams. Thousands of poets and writers have sung the praises of this paradise island, endowed with the beauty of untouched nature, a variety of rich colors and all the conditions for a wonderful holiday. It smells like pine, you can feel the aromas of exotic flowers, citruses and grapes.

Luxurious flower of the Mediterranean

The island of Zakynthos or Zakynthos, as it is commonly called in Greece, is part of the Ionian Islands group. It is located 300 km west of the Greek mainland and is the third largest among all the islands of its group. It will not be difficult for tourists to get to the mainland if they wish. The capital city, by the way, is also called Zakynthos. It’s very convenient - no one will make a mistake when planning a vacation, because Zakynthos and Zakynthos are, in fact, the same thing.

The total area of ​​Zakynthos is 407 km2. The length of the coastline is 123 km. The population is about 39,000 people. Its rather modest size does not at all prevent this island from developing as a tourist destination, because the nature here is truly beautiful, the small villages are very colorful and attractive, and the sandy beaches are very comfortable and beautiful.

Features of Zakynthos

The Greek island of Zakynthos was in ancient times called the “flower of the Levant” or the “flower of the Mediterranean East.” These names were given to this beautiful corner by the Venetians, who appreciated all its beauties back in the 15th century. The island not only inspires musicians, artists and writers, but also attracts numerous tourists with its delightful beaches, clear emerald sea, and unusual sights. The greatest flowering of the culture of this Greek corner occurred during the reign of the Venetians.

If you believe the legend, Zakynthos charmed even the Greek gods with its beauty. Apollo and Artemis admired him the most. This is probably why the indigenous people have especially revered this couple since ancient times. In the immortal poetry of Homer, Zakynthos is also described as “a paradise buried in emerald forests.”

At the beginning of summer, people come to Zakynthos wanting to see an interesting event. The impressively sized loggerhead turtles lay their eggs in the sand in the summer. 55 days after laying, new individuals hatch from the eggs and head en masse to the sea. Specialists monitor the process, because only 1-2 turtles are able to reach the water on their own. This event also arouses great interest. Caretta-caretta turtles reach up to 1 m in length.

The island of Zakynthos, or Zakynthos, is unique in that here nature has been preserved almost in its original form. Greenery blooms everywhere, numerous flowers bloom all year round and spread their honey scents. There are no aggressive industrial facilities here, so no harmful substances pollute the atmosphere, water or land. The activities of small factories producing olive oil and wine are strictly regulated by environmental standards and do not harm the environment at all.

Photos of tourists returning from the island of Zakynthos in Greece are literally full of images of folklore and music festivals. This place is very culturally respectful, so you can find many authentic paintings and local architecture. In colorful taverns on the seashore you can taste delicious food.

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What to see and where to have fun?

The most important thing for travelers and vacationers who come to Zakynthos from different parts of the planet is the nature of the island: picturesque beaches, natural grottoes, dense greenery and truly beautiful panoramic views. It is a pity that most of the historical monuments did not survive. But the population of the island is trying to protect everything beautiful and interesting that remains. And there really is something to see!

Blue Caves of Keri on Zakynthos

In the north of Zakynthos you can take a stunning photo if you decide to visit the unique blue caves. Admire the many picturesque grottoes, stone arches and clear blue waters. The originality of this attraction is added by the fact that you can only get to the caves with a reason. The most visited and famous blue cave is located at Cape Skinari. Artists, professional photographers and directors love to work there.

By the way, the water in the snow-white grottoes is very rich in calcium and other minerals. Therefore, washing with this water has a very beneficial effect on the skin. The depth of these waters reaches four meters. Thanks to the sufficiently large depth, here you can snorkel and admire the corals to your heart’s content.

Church of St. Dionysius

On the city embankment of the city of Zakynthos there is a temple with an impressive bell tower, which can be seen from afar. This is the Church of St. Dionysius, named after a priest with a difficult fate, who, despite human malice, earned great respect and love from the inhabitants of the island. The interior decoration of the temple amazes with its luxury and splendor.

By the way, another outstanding islander was named after the priest. For the Greeks, the island of Zakynthos is not just beautiful beaches and pristine forests. First of all, this is the birthplace of a revered person, a great poet, the author of the national anthem - Dionysius Solomos. His monument is erected on the main square of the capital.

Water Village water park

If you want to spend time in Zakynthos not only useful, but also fun, then you should definitely visit the water park. There are three of them on the island, but the most famous and largest is Water Village. It is located in the village of Sarakinado. There are slides of different levels for children and adults, a huge number of swimming pools and various water activities. In numerous cafes located right on the territory of the water park, you can have a great meal or refresh yourself with a cocktail.

Ticket price: 18 EUR for adults and 14 EUR for children, for half a day (after 14:30) 14 and 10 EUR respectively.

Marine Reserve

In 1999, a nature reserve was founded on the island. It is located on several beaches and 2 small islands. This is a miniature example of the Mediterranean ecosystem. It will be very interesting here for both children and adults. Everyone can see iguanas, porcupines, dolphins, rare turtles, unique seals and many other sea inhabitants.

In addition to the sea, there is also the Askos rock reserve, famous for its simply unearthly beauty. The limited area of ​​the park contains many rare species of animals and plants from all over the planet. Huge stone buildings, large water tanks and wooden compositions harmonize with the untouched nature of Zakynthos.

Children will simply be delighted with a walk around Askos. Park employees allow you to feed some animals with food that they provide themselves. The entrance ticket costs €9.50.

Transfiguration Monastery on Strofady

The monastery was built back in 1241 on one of the islands near Zakynthos. In the 15th century, the monastery building was rebuilt, and it became like a castle or a medieval fortress. Such a structure served as an excellent shelter for the monks from pirates. The central temple is made in the form of a tower. It was here that Saint Dionysius served as a simple monk for some time. As a result of the earthquake, the monastery was badly damaged, but they tried to restore it, restoring its original appearance. Nowadays, the monastery operates, 60 monks live in it.

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Weather on the island

Zakynthos attracts holidaymakers and tourists with its mild Mediterranean climate. In winter it is not at all cold here, and in summer there is no scorching heat. In winter, the earth is generously watered with rain. Such weather conditions favor the formation of rich vegetation and the constant accumulation of fresh water. During the summer season, from early May to October, there is practically no rain. A constant fresh breeze from the sea helps alleviate the heat in July and August.

The weather of air and sea water by month in Zakynthos is displayed on graphs.

Average temperature in summer: +24…+30°С. Experienced tourists believe that the best period for a holiday in Zakynthos is June-October. At other times it is not cold here either, but the sea does not warm up enough. If a beach holiday is not important to you, then excursions and entertainment tours are held on the island all year round.

The island of Zakynthos, Greece is an educational and harmonious holiday in an ecologically clean area with pristine nature.

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July. By oneself

Greece, Zakynthos island

I am a fan of traveling alone. Where have I not been already in my life! But Greece is simply a wonderful country! So at the end of July this year I returned from a trip to some of the colorful islands of this great country. At this time of year it is really very hot there, but that’s why this is Greece, where July is considered the hottest month.

I would also like to stop on the island of Zakynthos (Zakynthos, in Greek). From mainland Greece I got there by ferry. Although it took a long time, I found it interesting. The island is mountainous, sparsely populated and very green.

But the most famous attraction of Zakynthos is the ancient and rare sea turtles. There they are elevated to a kind of cult. They say that during the egg-laying season, air flights even stop over the island.

There are also many different caves on the island, and there I took my soul away, exploring the largest and most colorful ones.

I didn’t really walk around the capital of the island; somehow the city noise didn’t appeal to me when there was such beautiful nature around.

In general, I really liked Zakynthos, after which I went to explore other equally interesting Greek islands.

Olesya and Vladimir

June. With a family

Greece, Zakynthos island

How long and tediously we waited for our vacation... We planned in advance that my wife and I would go out on the same day and definitely go on vacation to warm countries. And so it happened, on June 3 we went on vacation to the fabulous Greek island of Zakynthos. We read and watched a lot about it, and when we arrived there, we were simply stunned by its beauty. The island consists entirely of high, forested areas, there is simply the cleanest air, just right for our child and my sick bronchi.

But what a magnificent sea there is! We have never been to the Ionian Sea before and now we think that it is the cleanest and most gentle.

Regarding the local service staff, I completely agree with my friends that the Greeks are very lazy and slow, but they are very pleasant and polite people. They are always sincerely happy and do not hesitate to show their emotions.

We really enjoyed our vacation! We want to go there again.

Zakynthos or Zakynthos is an island of poets, artists and musicians, the southernmost of the seven Ionian islands.

Here is the famous Navajo Bay, where a smuggler's ship lies on the sand; here huge Caretta Caretta turtles crawl onto the beaches; here olive groves alternate with orchards; here ancient secrets are hidden in mysterious grottoes and caves...

Cuisine of Zakynthos

The signature dish of the island of Zakynthos can be considered “sartsa” - beef with tomatoes, garlic and special sheep cheese “ladotiri”. Olive oil and all vegetables are local, fresh, straight from the garden. We recommend trying the hearty appetizer skordostubi - eggplants and tomatoes mixed with olive oil and garlic.

There are several cheese factories in Zakynthos where they make myzithra cheese - it tastes bland, so it is served with honey or sugar. Of course, you can easily order moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad - the national cuisine is held in high esteem here. To go with the coffee you drink here at any time of the day, we recommend ordering the local sweets mandolato (almond, honey and egg) or pastel (sesame, honey and almond).

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Greece, islands, Zakynthos... These words give rise to memories in the soul of snow-white houses by the sea, the smell of herbs, the endless sun above your head. This amazing region, rich in thousands of years of history, attracts tourists from the northern countries who are tired of city traffic jams.

A piece of history

The Greek island, colloquially called Zakynthos (the scientific version is Zakynthos), is the southernmost “splinter” of the Ionian archipelago. Despite the similarities with other regions of Hellas, it has a zest, a soul that attracts hundreds of thousands of guests every year. It’s not for nothing that the slogan of local tour operators is the following phrase: “The island of Zakynthos is a unique holiday in Greece.”

The name Zakynthos comes from the name of the mythological son of Dardanus, king of Arcadia. According to Homer, the island was the possession of the legendary Odysseus. During the Middle Ages, the territory was ruled alternately by Genoa and Venice. From 1800 to 1807, the region was part of the Republic of the Seven Islands. It was in Zakynthos that Dionysios Solomos, the author of the Ode to Freedom, was born, as well as the poet Andreas Kalvos.

Sandy beaches, cliffs and coves

The island of Zakynthos (Greece) has a special charm. Beaches line almost the entire eastern coast, making it soft and fluffy. In the western, most mountainous part, it remains untouched and little-known - a territory for true pioneers who are alien to the beach philosophy of relaxation. This land is characterized by steep cliffs that slope down to the sea in white walls. The fertile center of the island is covered with huge olive and citrus groves and vineyards.

The northern regions with poor roads and wild mountains, as well as the central fertile plains and hills, have escaped the onslaught of mass tourism. The southeast, by contrast, is dominated by resorts, beaches and commercial crowds of vacationers.

Nature reserve

The most recognizable place is Navagio Beach. The island of Zakynthos (Greece) is one of the rare areas where Caretta turtles lay eggs. The Caretta (aka loggerhead) has become the symbol of the island. The turtles chose southern bays for laying eggs; restrictions were introduced in these places to protect the magnificent sea creatures. Lagana Bay, in particular, has been declared a National Park.

Thousands of tourists strive to watch loggerhead turtles, and at the same time be impressed by the postcard views of the legendary beaches, protected by steep cliffs and numerous caves (for example, Galazia Spilia - Blue Cave). The most photographed place in Zakynthos (possibly throughout Greece) was Navagio Beach. Probably the reason is a ship abandoned by the sea, rusting spectacularly in the middle of the snow-white sand in the grip of high rocks.

Capital

The city of Zakynthos, lovingly called Zante, is the largest settlement on the island and at the same time its capital. The 1953 earthquake virtually destroyed the island of Zakynthos (Greece). Sights that had survived thousands of years were destroyed overnight. Of course, some of the buildings survived or were restored, but today's Zante was completely rebuilt after the cataclysm.

The town of 16 thousand is located on the east coast, “facing” the Peloponnese. Zakynthos lacks medieval charm for the above reason. However, modern low-rise buildings in the Mediterranean style are in whimsical harmony with the restored neighborhoods.

Attractions

Although the main attraction of the area is Navagio Bay, the island of Zakynthos (Greece) will also be of interest to architecture lovers. First of all, you should bow before the altar of the Church of St. Dionysus. This is the patron saint of the island, which means it wouldn’t hurt to enlist his support. The church contains the remains of the saint. Visitors can only enter properly dressed: men in trousers (not shorts!), women with their heads covered. Information with the rules is posted at the entrance. If tourists are not properly dressed, they will be given appropriate clothing. As a rule, these are large scarves that can be used to cover bare areas. Next to the church there is a historical bell tower.

There are many temples and bell towers in Zakynthos, built in the Venetian style, when the bell tower is always located separately, near the church. In the main square of Zante there is a monument to the poet Solomos, creator of the Greek national anthem. There is a library nearby where photographs of the city before the earthquake are displayed. A visit to the Byzantine Museum with the collection of the Ionian School of painting is considered mandatory.

The natural and architectural dominant of the capital are two rocks, towering above the city blocks, pressed by the mountains to the sea. The castle and settlement of Bohali are located here. From these platforms you can see almost the whole of Zakynthos, and also see the best sunrise of your life. By the way, direct tours to the island of Zakynthos (Greece) from Moscow are already available. Previously, you had to get there through Athens or other major tourist centers.

Laganas

It is the largest and most popular resort on the island of Zakynthos. It is a bustling cluster of hotels, guest houses, bars and restaurants. There are numerous clubs and discos where the fun usually lasts until dawn. Therefore, people who value peace are advised to choose quieter resorts for a holiday on the island, for example, Tsilivi and Alykes. If you want to take a closer look at the island of Zakynthos (Greece), tours from local operators can be purchased at specialized centers.

After a day on an exceptionally beautiful sandy beach, it is worth taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat. As it moves, it can be seen migrating from Africa to Laganas Bay. Because of them, some areas of the beach are closed to people, so the animals can safely lay eggs. Laganas has a huge selection of good restaurants and charming taverns. In the evening, when the weather cools down, a traditional Greek dinner will be a real pleasure.

Dionysios International Airport is located between the resort and the capital of the island. Flights arrive here in the direction "mainland Greece - Zakynthos Islands", as well as air transport from other airports in Europe.

Porto Kukla

A very quiet resort located on a picturesque bay 4 km from the resort of the same name Laganas. Its charms will be appreciated by those who want to take a break from the bustle of big cities and spend their holidays in a beautiful place. Here narrow “chamber” beaches alternate with rocky ledges and stone ridges rising from the depths.

Kalamaki

The resort village is located in Laganas Bay, where the Zakynthos National Marine Park is famous for its inhabitants - sea turtles. The resort impresses with the beauty of its beaches with crystal clear water. From taverns, bars, and restaurants it is convenient to view the picturesque surroundings.

Vasilikos

This is one of the most beautiful peninsulas of Zakynthos. The coast of the region is dotted with small sandy bays, and cozy hotels nestle among the hills. All this forms an unforgettable landscape. An ideal place for families and a romantic getaway for two.

Tsilivi

Tsilivi (the coastal region of Planos) is located on the east coast. The fashionable resort has been developing rapidly in recent years, and this is not surprising: holidaymakers have always been attracted to Greece. The Zakynthos islands are famous for their hospitality: even against the backdrop of the cheerful Greeks, the locals stand out for their courtesy, sometimes even excessive.

During the day, tourists relax on the sandy beaches and stroll along the small promenade. In the evening, wander around the benches and shops or dine in numerous taverns and restaurants offering a huge selection of dishes: from traditional to exotic. A pleasant end to the evening will be a visit to one of the many bars.

If you go further along the coast, you can find a cozy beach in some secluded bay. The nearby Drossia beach is especially charming. The further you are from Tsilivi, the more modest the choice of hotels and food outlets. The mainland village of Planos is interesting to visit. The road to it passes through picturesque fertile lands, along green hills, where olive groves and vineyards with delicious juicy berries grow.

Kips

Kips is a small resort located in the north-eastern part of Zakynthos, just a few kilometers from the famous resort of Tsilivi. The quiet and peaceful settlement is a traditional Greek village surrounded by olive groves and forests. The area has several good sandy beaches at Pati Ammos and Agios Konstantinos, which attract more and more tourists every year. The most famous place in this area is the extraordinarily picturesque beach of Drosia, located near the village of Alykes. The Kypseli region is also famous for its mineral waters, known under the Levante brand. An architectural and historical gem is the Church of St. Mary and its bell tower.

Zakynthos Island, Greece: Address, Zakynthos Island, Greece Reviews: 4/5

Many travelers first learn about Zakynthos from the famous photograph of Navagio beach with a rusty ship. They begin to wonder where this beauty is, and for some of the especially curious the road leads straight to the Ionian Islands. According to reviews, it is the desire to see the legendary corner of nature with one’s own eyes that prompts tourists to choose this destination.

People arriving in Zakynthos are captivated by its beauty. Unlike the sun-scorched Greek islands at the end of the season, Zakynthos miraculously remains green, despite the heat. Lagana National Park becomes the second most pleasant discovery - where else can you see huge turtles swimming in the distance? The third phenomenon is people who are especially kind and welcoming.

Zakynthos Island, Greece: prices

Prices are not much different from nearby areas of Greece:

• Beach. It's mostly free to use. Rent: sun lounger + umbrella - 5-8 euros/day.
• Transport. Buses are the main means of transportation on the island. Tickets for the city bus can be purchased at a kiosk or hotel reception. Tickets for intercity flights are sold at the station or in the vehicle. The price for a city bus is from 1 euro. Taxi price is about 2 euros/1 km.
• Car rental - about 35-40 euros/day + fuel. Lessors have no problem issuing vehicles to visitors if they have an international driver's license. But for some, a national driver's license is enough. The renter must be at least 23 years old. The price of gasoline is approximately 1.8 euros/liter.
• Renting a scooter will cost half as much: 15-20 euros/day.
• Prices in stores: mineral water - 0.8 euros; beer - from 1.5 euros; wine - 3.5-5 euros; cola (2 l) - 2 euros; postcards + stamp 1.5 euros; telephone card - from 5 euros.
• Prices in the restaurant: dinner - from 12 euros; Greek salad - 5 euros; pizza - 8 euros; coffee - from 3 euros; ice cream - 4 euros, beer - from 3 euros.

On the edge of the Ionian Sea

Greece always leaves a different, but always unforgettable impression. The islands of Zakynthos - and this is the mainland island itself and the satellite islands of Kalonisi, Marathonisi, Agio Loannis and others - have become a real discovery for discerning tourists. Particularly picturesque is the small rocky Cameo, where a wooden platform leads from the shore. For those who are alien to “pop” resorts, the homeland of turtles and kind people will be an unexpected, but very pleasant discovery.

The name of this island, which is the third largest among all the Ionian islands, is rooted in Greek mythology - according to legend, Zakynthos was the name of the son of the Phrygian king Dardan.

This beautiful and mysterious island is rich in excellent resorts, where there is a favorable atmosphere for relaxation and seeking harmony with both the inner and the outside world. The most famous beaches and resorts of the island of Zakynthos are Gerakas, Laganas, Alykes, Alikanas, Bouka, Vasilikos and Tsilivi - many of them have been rightfully recognized as the best resorts throughout Europe.

When is the best time to go on holiday to Zakynthos?

Zakynthos is the southernmost island of all the Ionian Islands. Therefore, it is characterized by the mildest, warmest and most pleasant climatic conditions in all of Greece. The temperate Mediterranean climate reigns here, thanks to which you can relax here with maximum comfort at almost any time of the year. The tourist season begins in the month of May, and it lasts until mid-October.

Among all the islands in Greece, it is on Zankiffe that there is the maximum amount of green vegetation, which owes its lushness to water and sun rays. Winter on Zankif is the rainy season. During this period, the island accumulates a sufficient amount of water, which subsequently feeds its luxurious flora.

In spring, all the beauty of the island begins to reveal itself, and it becomes like a huge flower meadow with an amazing aroma. Rains are becoming less and less frequent, the air temperature rises to +23°C, and the sea water temperature - up to +20°C. This period is the most favorable for those who do not like sweltering heat and prefer pleasant, warm and mild weather.

The peak tourist season in Zakynthos falls in July and August - the hottest months of the year. The air temperature during this period can reach +31...+35°C, however, due to the pleasant breeze from the sea and the huge amount of greenery, even such intense heat is tolerated quite easily by vacationers.

In June and September, the most favorable weather conditions reign here, so it is during this period that holidays in Zakynthos are as comfortable as possible.

Prices for tours to Zakynthos

Currently, leading tour operators offer everyone a wide variety of tours to Zakynthos - among them you can choose options at reasonable prices. The peak tourist season on this island falls on June-September - you can buy a trip for this period on average from 50 to 160 thousand rubles, but if you take advantage of the best offers and promotions from tour operators, you may be able to purchase the desired trip at a lower price.

The cost of tours to Zakynthos is influenced by many factors - including the duration of the trip, the type of hotel chosen. When choosing the most suitable tour, you should read reviews about hotels, their prices, services and quality of service. It should also be borne in mind that early booking will allow you to purchase a tourist package at a lower cost. This way you can get a discount of 20-30% from its regular price.

Types of recreation. What to do on Zakynthos Island?

The island of Zakynthos has everything you need, which contributes to the most harmonious and comfortable holiday. In addition to a variety of beaches, there are many bars, clubs and discos for a fun time. Those who prefer active recreation will find the most favorable opportunities for windsurfing, diving and other types of water sports.

Beach holiday

Many of the beaches of Zakynthos are the best not only in Greece, but throughout Europe. Surrounded by olive groves, the beaches offer absolute comfort and harmony. Many of them are relatively shallow, which means they are ideal for beginners, as well as for families coming here with children. It should be noted that most of the beaches in Zakynthos are strictly protected by law, due to the fact that the water spaces here are the habitat of the rarest species of large and beautiful turtles - Caretta Caretta.

Leisure

For lovers of active recreation, the beaches of Zakynthos have a huge variety of opportunities. The crystal clear water is ideal for diving and windsurfing. There are also many quiet and cozy places that are most favorable for fishing. Exciting cycling and walking tours will certainly interest many tourists.

Various excursions to Zakynthos are of great interest to many holidaymakers - after all, this island is a magnificent natural reserve. Tourists are offered fascinating sightseeing tours of the island, lasting more than six hours, unique excursions to the habitats of the Caretta Caretta turtles, listed in the Red Book, and much, much more. Excellent photographs taken during the excursions will remind you of the wonderful days spent in Greece.

Beaches and their types

All Zakynthos beaches are characterized by well-developed modern infrastructure, as well as the presence of the purest sand. A significant number of them are concentrated in the eastern part of the island. Navagio Bay is one of the most popular beaches - it differs from many others in that it can only be reached from the sea, due to being surrounded by rocks on the shore.

The beaches of Gerakas and Agios Nikolaos, recognized as the best on the entire island, also deserve the attention of vacationers. However, it should be borne in mind that some types of entertainment are prohibited here due to the fact that turtle nesting sites are located nearby.

Sights of Zakynthos Island

The island of Zakynthos has many attractions that are of great interest to vacationers. Here, true Hellenic buildings are surprisingly combined with buildings erected in the Venetian style. At the same time, interest is aroused not only by architectural monuments, but also by nature itself, which is extraordinarily beautiful and majestic here.

Blue Caves

This is one of the most unusual attractions of Zakynthos, which was created by nature itself. The caves, formed from white rocks, are a truly unique sight. Combined with crystal clear and transparent water, the landscape is simply amazing.

Church of St. Dionysius

In the city called Zakynthos is located the Church of Agios Dionysius, built at the beginning of the eighteenth century. Built from light stones, this church looks very noble. Its interior is richly decorated with icons and frescoes.