Are you planning a trip to the stunning Ionian Island of Zakynthos (also known as Zante)? If so, get ready to be amazed by the diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture that this Greek paradise has to offer. From the rugged mountains in the north to the sandy beaches in the south, Zakynthos has something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 15 of the best things to do in Zakynthos, giving you an insider’s look at the top attractions and activities on the island. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or beach enthusiast, you’ll find something to suit your interests in this guide.
So, grab your sunscreen, camera, and sense of adventure, and let’s start exploring Zakynthos together!
Discovering the Natural Wonders of Zakynthos
Zakynthos is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from towering cliffs to crystal-clear waters. Here are some of the top natural attractions to add to your itinerary:
Navagio (Shipwreck Cove)
Navagio, also known as Shipwreck Cove, is a must-see attraction on Zakynthos. Nestled in the northeast of the island, this cove is surrounded by soaring white limestone cliffs and is home to the rusting remains of the MV Panagiotis, a container ship that ran aground in 1980.
To experience this iconic sight, you can either view it from above at Navagio Beach View or take a boat tour to get up close to the shipwreck and the breathtaking blue waters of the cove. Whether you choose to sunbathe on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water, or marvel at the rugged cliffs, Navagio is sure to leave you in awe.
Blue Caves
Located in the north of Zakynthos, the Blue Caves are a stunning natural wonder that can only be accessed by water. Departing from the little harbour at Skinari, you’ll embark on a boat tour through a series of limestone sea caves and natural arches. The unique interplay of sunlight and white limestone gives the water a mesmerizing milky blue hue, creating a magical underwater world for you to explore.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the radiant waters of the Blue Caves and witness the captivating beauty of this natural phenomenon.
Porto Limnionas Beach
For a more secluded beach experience, head to Porto Limnionas on the west coast of Zakynthos. Accessible via a newly laid road from the village of Agios Leon, this fjord is surrounded by high white cliffs and tranquil, crystalline waters. Relax on the rock platforms, bask in the sun on the beach, or indulge in a swim in the shimmering blue waters of Porto Limnionas.
Soaking Up the Sun on Zakynthos’s Best Beaches
Zakynthos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, offering golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning coastal views. Here are a few of the top beaches to visit during your time on the island:
Kalamaki Beach
Situated in the Greek National Marine Park, Kalamaki Beach is a hidden gem on the eastern pocket of Laganas Bay. This pristine beach boasts soft golden sand, warm transparent waters, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
With only a single bar offering parasols and sun loungers, Kalamaki Beach ensures a relaxing and unspoiled beach experience away from the crowds. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this protected coastline.
Banana Beach
Banana Beach, located in the southeast of Zakynthos, is the longest beach on the island and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With its soft golden sand and shallow transparent sea, Banana Beach is an ideal spot for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Rent a sun lounger or beach pergola at the Banana Casa Playa bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy full-service amenities and water sports activities on the eastern end of the beach. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun or enjoy some adrenaline-pumping water sports, Banana Beach has something for everyone.
Gerakas Beach
For a more secluded and picturesque beach experience, head to Gerakas Beach, the southernmost beach on Zakynthos. This tranquil beach offers a curved expanse of golden sand, backed by sandy hills and crystal-clear turquoise waters. As a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, Gerakas Beach is a protected area where visitors can witness the natural beauty of these majestic creatures.
Take a leisurely swim, sunbathe on the soft sand, or explore the rocky promontory at the end of the beach for an unforgettable beach day on Zakynthos.
Exploring Zakynthos’s Rich History and Culture
In addition to its natural attractions, Zakynthos is steeped in history and culture, with a fascinating blend of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Here are a few cultural highlights to explore during your time on the island:
Agios Dionisios Church
Located in Zakynthos Town, the Agios Dionisios Church is home to the relics of St. Dionysios, the island’s patron saint. This historic church dates back to 1717 and houses the sarcophagus of St. Dionysios, which is opened daily for worshippers to pay their respects.
Admire the neo-Byzantine architecture of the church, adorned with frescoes and religious iconography, and learn about the rich religious heritage of Zakynthos. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the church museum, which showcases works by the renowned 18th-century painter Nikolaos Koutouzis.
Byzantine Museum
Located on Solomos Square, the Byzantine Museum is a treasure trove of Byzantine and post-Byzantine religious art from Zakynthos and beyond. Explore the museum’s collection of frescoes, icons, wood carvings, and liturgical artefacts dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries.
As you wander through the museum, immerse yourself in the history and artistry of Zakynthos’s Byzantine heritage, and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s cultural legacy. Be sure to check out the scale model of the city and black and white photographs depicting Zakynthos before the devastating earthquake of 1953.
Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Attractions in Zakynthos
Beyond the popular beaches and historical sites, Zakynthos boasts a range of unique attractions and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path destinations to add to your Zakynthos itinerary:
Aristeon Olive Press & Museum
For an authentic taste of Zakynthos’s prized olive oil, visit the Aristeon Olive Press & Museum located a few kilometers from the airport. Step back in time as you explore the museum’s collection of antique olive oil implements, including wooden presses and grindstones used in centuries past.
Learn about the olive oil production process, from traditional methods to modern techniques, and sample the various olive oil products offered at the tasting session. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase locally made olive oil soap and flavored oils to take home as a memento of your Zakynthos experience.
Askos Stone Park
Located in the northern part of Zakynthos, Askos Stone Park offers a unique blend of wildlife sanctuary, zoo, farm, and archaeological site. Discover a variety of stone structures, from drystone walls to stone-built stables, as you explore the park’s lush grounds.
Feed and interact with a diverse range of animals, including ponies, deer, peacocks, raccoons, and more, and participate in rural activities like olive harvesting and cow milking (depending on the season). With orchards growing peaches and apples without pesticides, Askos Stone Park provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Final Thoughts
From the stunning beaches and natural wonders to the rich history and cultural heritage, Zakynthos offers a myriad of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, delving into the island’s Byzantine past, or exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, Zakynthos has something for every traveler.
So, pack your bags, set out on an unforgettable journey to Zakynthos, and immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and culture of this enchanting Greek island. With so much to see and do, you’ll be sure to create memories that will last a lifetime on the picturesque island of Zakynthos.
Safe travels, and enjoy your Zakynthos adventure!