Greece is well known for its captivating and beautiful islands. With over 6,000 of them, each one more beautiful than the next, the country understandably becomes a tourism magnet during the summer months.
The Aegean Sea offers islands such as Crete, Santorini, Samos, and Naxos. Or the spectacular Cyclades islands hosting ultra-famous destinations such as Ios, Kos, and Mykonos. The Ionian Sea is no less beautiful, with wonderful islands like Paxos, Antipaxos, Corfu, Lefkada, and a large island that many consider to be the most beautiful of them all: Zakynthos.
Zakynthos offers all the beauty that you can expect from a Greek island: spectacular rugged landscapes with Bougainville, red poppy flowers, rosemary and lavender shrubs, and infinite rows of olive trees stretching into the sea. Small cafes serving refreshing Greek salads and feta or cafè freddo, upscale beach bars, luxury hotels, and an almost ever-present sun coupled with a gentle breeze. All surrounding a laid-back and tranquil atmosphere.
Zakynthos is so beautiful that in ancient Greek mythology, Apollo was believed to play the lira under the trees of the island to chant its beauty, while Artemis, the goddess of hunting, used to wander around the lush green woods.
What to expect
- Everything that could be expected from a Greek island turned up to eleven. Beautiful beaches, spectacular natural landscapes, and crystal-clear blue waters
- World-known incredible Greek sunsets
- Great diving spots and coves for boat excursions
- Mouth-watering local cuisine in the tranquil and laid-back local villages.
Tips & Impressions
- You will need a car to explore the relatively large island. There are many car rental places, most of which are naturally near the airport. If possible, however, try to rent a car (or quad bike) in the town of Zakynthos. Even better, travel to the island by sea, bring your rental on the ferry for cheaper prices, and experience the quintessential Greek ferry transfers.
- If this is your only stop in Greece, take the time on a Sunday morning to explore the still and quiet atmosphere in a town and also go to an Eastern Orthodox church during service to be inspired by the mysticism.
Country Info
- Language: Greek is the official language.
- Population: 1.1 million (2019 est.)
- Timezone: UTC +2
- Ethnic Groups: Greek 98%, other 2%
- Religions: Greek Orthodox 98%, Muslim 1.3%, other 0.7%
- Political System: parliamentary republic; monarchy rejected by referendum, December 8, 1974
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Credit Cards: Cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are widely distributed. Payment preference, though, is cash.
- Electricity: socket types: Europlug, Schuko, 230 volt / 50 hertz
- Tipping Customs: 10-15% in restaurants and bars
- Haggling Culture: Common in markets and tourist areas
Check the Greece page for more country general information
Safety
- Safety:
- Greece is very safe, but like any other tourist hotspot, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur.
- Road safety can be a concern as the roads are narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved.
- Sunburns and scratches on sharp rocks and cliffs can easily happen
- Emergencies number: 112 (EU common emergencies numbers), 100 (police), 166 (medical services), 199 (fire dept.)
- Natural risks:
- Zakynthos is in a seismically active region so it is prone to earthquakes
- Because of the Mediterranean vegetation made of shrubbery, wildfires can occur, especially in the summer months.
- As with other islands or locations in Greece, Zakynthos is mountainous and prone to landslides.
Trivia pill
The blue color (kyanos) is believed to protect against evil spirits. It can be found in the iconic white houses with blue doors and roofs and is also on the famous pendants used to ward off the “evil eye” (mati). The mati pendants have origins dating back to the 6th century BC.
Speaking of superstitions, ancient Greeks also did not eat beans as they believed that the grains contained the souls of dead people.
Getting there
- By air: Zakynthos has an international airport – Dionysios Solomos.
- By sea: The ferry from the nearby port of Killini takes less than an hour to the main city of the island.
- By car: Zakynthos is a large island and it’s almost mandatory to rent a car (or bring one with you by ferry) if you want to explore it.
Must-see
- Navagio Beach: The most iconic beach of Zakynthos, located near the village of Alykes is an Instagrammer’s dream come true. Also known as “Shipwreck Cove” this cliff-encapsulated beach can only be reached by boat and offers crystal-clear, turquoise waters and a shipwreck on the shore.
- Blue Caves: Second in popularity only to Navagio Beach, these beautiful caves, located near the Port of Agios Nikolaos, are named for their stunning blue color.
- Marathonisi: This small, turtle-shaped island is the perfect swimming spot and home to the loggerhead turtles which come here each year to nest.
- Porto Vromi: This picturesque harbor town is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of local wine and watch the sunset over the Ionian Sea.
Weather
Zakynthos has a Mediterranean climate.
Summers are hot and dry, with an average temperature of around 30°C (86°F) during the day and around 20°C (68°F) at night.
Winters are mild and relatively wet, with an average temperature of around 13°C (55°F) during the day and around 7°C (45°F) at night.
Spring and autumn are generally pleasant with mild temperatures.
The island receives most of its rainfall between October and March, while the summer months are characterized by minimal precipitation.
Etiquette
- Zakynthos is a large island which doesn’t live exclusively on tourism. Because of this, when driving, try to give way to locals especially those on trucks bringing goods around, farmers, and residents. Nothing is worse than going to work and having a clueless tourist slowing down all the traffic.
- Greeks are generally friendly and in tourist destinations very helpful and forthcoming. As such be kind yourself and use your “kalimera” (good morning), “kalispera” (good evening), “yasou” (hello), “parakalo” (please), and “efharisto” (thank you)
- Zakynthos has incredible natural scenery. As such (and like everywhere for that matter) don’t litter and don’t take anything with you. Also, try to leave as little a footprint as possible like staying on trails if hiking.
- At Cameo island, you can swim with turtles. Obviously do not harass the animals.
- Almost all Greeks are of the Eastern Orthodox religion. Like any religion be respectful especially in churches or during religious holidays and rituals. Because of the nature of the Orthodox religion, a somewhat higher degree of respect and modesty should be given. See this article about Eastern Orthodox religion
Check out this article for info on the Eastern Orthodox religion and visitor etiquette
Flora & Fauna
- You will find the usual Mediterranean flora that can be seen elsewhere in Greece. Shrubbery like lavender, rosemary, and thyme not only contribute to the scenery but provide a pleasant aroma. Pine trees, cypresses and colorful wildflowers can be seen all around, as well as the ever-present and iconic olive trees
- When it comes to fauna the most notable animal is the Caretta Caretta sea turtle which nests during the summer and which can be seen up close at the small Cameo island. There are many species of birds (falcons, seagulls, cormorants) and the island is also known to host a population of dolphins (and to a lesser extent seals)
Deals for Zakynthos
Closing thoughts
Zakynthos is a spectacular island in Greece which offers escape and relax to its visitors, as well as cultural attractions, a vibrant nightlife district and unforgettable scenery. Given it’s large size there is plenty to do, while still remaining localized and easy to explore within one/two hours drive.
Whether it is to enjoy the local cafes and tavernas, water sports activities, hikes on the rugged coastline, or the splendid beaches, Zakynthos is a great addition to your travel bucket list or next summer vacation destination.
