OUR COMPLETE ZAKYNTHOS, GREECE TRAVEL GUIDE
Zakynthos Island is a true gem in the Ionian Sea. Unlike any other island in Greece, Zakynthos offers a unique blend of natural beauty, lively culture, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
It is one of the most diverse places we've visited, the island has something for everyone. The southern part of Zakynthos, near Vasilikos, is home to some of the most picturesque beaches on the island, complemented by local restaurants surrounded by groves of trees. Meanwhile, the main port, known as the 'Port of Zakynthos,' is bustling with activity, with shops and restaurants lining the coast.
Travelling inland towards Volimes, you'll find olive groves and winding roads that lead to traditional Greek villages where time seems to stand still. The north around Agios Nikolaos offers a slower pace of life and the feeling of being 'off the beaten path', with quiet coves and charming tavernas just a short detour off the main road.
While Navagio Beach, also known as 'Shipwreck Beach,' is the most famous attraction on the island, we also found ourselves drawn to the secluded swimming coves and small beaches that dot the coastline. The best way to explore these hidden gems is by boat, and we highly recommend spending at least one day on the water. Nothing compares to the serenity of a private swim, with crystal clear waters and limestone cliffs providing the perfect backdrop.
A vehicle is a must on this island so make sure you're prepared for some lengthy stints in the car, but if you plan what beaches and restaurants are near each other then you can maximise your trip around the island.
So whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to soak up the Greek culture, Zakynthos is the perfect destination. Come and experience the magic of this unique island for yourself!
4-7 DAYS
—
BEST TIME TO VISIT – MAY THROUGH OCTOBER, LESS WIND & WARMER WATER LATER IN THE SUMMER
WEATHER – MILD, RAINY WINTERS & WARM, SUNNY SUMMERS
GETTING AROUND – MOTORCYCLE, ATV OR RENTAL CAR (RECOMMENDED)
CURRENCY – EUROS, MOST PLACES TAKE CARD
LANGUAGES – GREEK, MOST PEOPLE SPEAK ENGLISH
NEARBY AIRPORT – ZAKYNTHOS AIRPORT ‘DIONYSIOS SOLOMOS’ (ZTH)
WHERE TO EAT IN
Nobelos Bio Restaurant - this was our favourite meal on the island, it's right by the ocean and next to the marina where we rented our boat for the Ship Wreck from.
To Diafokereiko - This is a traditional greek restaurant that has been open since the 1600s. The food was amazing and super authentic.
L'ete Sunset Bar - this restaurant has the most amazing view along the coast. Be sure to book a spot as they tend to have a DJ playing in the lead-up to the sunset which makes it busy.
WHAT TO DO
Rent a boat– if there is only one thing you do in Zakynthos, ensure that it's renting a boat. We hired from Agios Nikolaos to explore the northern shores and the Ship Wreck (no boat license required). It gets windy in the afternoon so be sure to go to the Ship Wreck Bay as soon as you get the boat, then look to explore down to Makris Gialos Beach in the afternoon.
We used Zante Rentals who were amazing, the two brothers went the extra mile to make sure we enjoyed our time on the boat and in Zakynthos - their WhatsApp is +44 7702 035517
Watch the sunset - Zakynthos has some of the best sunsets, we would recommend going to Porto Limnionas for the afternoon and then spending the evening at L'ete Sunset Bar as it's a pretty amazing spot to watch it come down.
Visit Navagio 'Shipwreck' beach - There is a viewpoint from above and you can rent a boat to go on the beach. Unfortunately, there is only a viewing platform to view the boat from the top as there have been some incidents near the cliff edge, making it too dangerous to keep open - they have security monitoring the fences to ensure no one goes to the old lookout.
Visit Milzithres look out - this view made our jaws drop, it's nearly 800m above sea level and looks straight onto Milzithres rock. If you have a four-wheel drive car then drive up, otherwise, I'd recommend parking at the bottom and walking.
BEACHES TO VISIT
Navagio Beach - the beach that has made the island famous. There are day trips here but we recommend going via private boat. The water is an electric blue and is truly spectacular. Tip: Ensure you're confident with how the anchor is set though as you have to swim a 25-50m into shore.
Mizithres Beach - we didn't make it here, only from the view above. It is only available to visit by boat and looks worth it.
Porto Limnionas - one of our favourite spots to swim at. The water is super clear, there are nice spots to lay and tan, and there is a cliff dive and a restaurant for food above.
Xigia Sulfur Beach - this is a natural sulfur beach that has the most interesting coloured blue water. It is a bit smelly and it does get really busy so I'd recommend going earlier in the day.
Makris Gialos Beach - near Xigia, Makris is the perfect spot to relax for an afternoon, the water was crystal clear and felt like a bath. Unfortunately, it's a stone beach so you might have to wear your Birkenstocks to the shoreline.
St. Nicholas Beach - this was a nice sandy beach where you can rent day beds, they also cook food in the sand here.
Plakaki Beach - this swimming spot was a mission to get down to, however, it was worth it as it had some of the clearest water we swam in. Tip: Wear shoes down the track (it's about 20-30mins down and 30-40 up).
