Zakynthos (often known as Zante) is likely one of the main Ionian Islands – a mesmerizing archipelago situated alongside the western coast of mainland Greece. Because of its spectacular white cliffs, hidden coves, in addition to the well-known Shipwreck Seashore, the island turned some of the in style locations in Greece.
How one can Attain Zakynthos from Mainland Greece
From mainland Greece Zakynthos might be reached by ferry or by airplane. Ferry crossings to/from the island can be found all year long and depart each day from the port of Killini, a seaside city on the western facet of the Peloponnese. The journey lasts about an hour. Through the excessive season, there’s additionally an area ferry that connects Zakynthos and Kefalonia.
There are additionally each day direct flights to Zakynthos from Athens Worldwide Airport (ATH). The flight takes roughly 50 minutes. The three most important airways working this route are SkyExpress, Olympic and Aegean.
Through the months of July and August Zakynthos there are additionally direct ferry connections from Bari and Brindisi, in Italy. This route is at present serviced by Pink Star Ferries and European Ferries. Nonetheless, this journey takes 17 hours, so it’s not a really handy solution to attain Zakynthos.
When to Go to the Island
The height season in Zakynthos is in the summertime (June, July and August) when the climate is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Presently of yr you’ll get nearly everlasting sunshine and just about no rainfall, however temperatures might be very excessive typically, reaching 39º-40ºC (100ºF). Summer time can be the busiest time of the yr when accommodations fill as much as capability.
The off-season is from late fall to early spring (November to April). Though the climate stays good for probably the most half, this isn’t the very best time to benefit from the seashores in Zakinthos because the water is simply too chilly for swimming (round 60ºF). One other draw back of the off-season is that almost all accommodations and eating places shut down from late fall to spring, so that you’ll have restricted lodging choices.
Autumn then again provides the very best of all worlds. The climate remains to be heat for swimming and sunbathing with each day highs reaching 26ºC (78ºF) and water temperatures going as excessive as 28ºC (82ºF). Costs are decrease and vacationers are fewer. Fall in Greece is mostly heat and nice, so individuals who journey usually to those islands contemplate September and October the very best months for visiting Zakynthos.
Greatest Approach to Discover Zakynthos
Zante is generally recognized for its breathtaking shoreline and white pebble seashores with turquoise waters, lots of which might be reached by land. However many stunning bays and coves can solely be accessed by boat, given the truth that the island is surrounded by colossal tall limestone cliffs.
Because of this visiting Zakynthos would require hiring each a automotive and a ship. Though there’s a native bus service (referred to as KTEL) that goes to among the vacationer websites, buses don’t serve all the island. So with no automotive, a scooter, or a quad you received’t have the ability to get round in Zakynthos.
Renting a Boat in Zakynthos
Experiencing Zakynthos by boat is likely one of the greatest methods to expertise the island and see its magnificent white cliffs and hidden coves. Boating in Zakynthos was one in every of our best recollections from this journey. Relying in your aim and finances, you possibly can both lease a ship for the day and drive it your self (you don’t want a boating license), or you possibly can ebook a ship with a captain.
We did each. On our first day in Zakynthos we employed a ship tour with a skipper who took us on the north facet of the island. On the second day, we rented a ship and drove across the south facet by ourselves. So listed below are the professionals and cons for every possibility:
Renting a Boat with a Skipper
Renting a ship with a skipper can value anyplace from €200 to €350+ relying on the form of watercraft you rent. The tour lasts about 4-5 hours. The benefit of hiring a ship with a captain is that you simply get to sit back and loosen up as your captain takes you from spot to identify alongside the coast. These guys know the shoreline just like the again of their hand, so thy will present you hidden spots and glide the boat easily via hidden obstacles. They may even inform you tales in regards to the island that you could be not hear anyplace else.
The drawback of hiring a ship with a skipper is that you simply received’t have a lot privateness and also you’ll solely get to spend 4-5 hours at sea. However for most individuals this might be sufficient.
Renting a Boat with no Skipper
Then again, renting a ship with no captain on Zakynthos might be extra pleasurable and economical. Relying on the season, you possibly can count on to pay between €120-€180/day for a small boat. The benefit of driving your individual boat is that you simply get to spend a whole day at sea, cease wherever you need, swim in crystal clear water and sunbathe on secret seashores.
Most boats have trackers, so for those who get just a little misplaced they quickly come out and get you again on observe.
The drawback is that you simply’ll get A LOT extra stress! The comparatively shallow waters alongside the coast typically have surprising obstacles, so for those who don’t hold your eye on the water floor chances are you’ll hit an enormous rock and destroy the boat. Additionally, you’ll solely get a restricted quantity of gasoline, so you possibly can’t actually go fairly so far as you’d like.
The place to Lease a Boat in Zakynthos
There are many totally different corporations providing boat leases throughout the island of Zakynthos, however the greatest focus of leases is across the northern and the southern a part of the island.
In case you plan to go to Navajo Seashore and the Blue Caves (within the north) your greatest wager could be round Porto Vromi, or Alykes/Alykanas as much as Cape Skinari. You’ll see the leases alongside the seaside.
For Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island within the south, it is best to go all the way down to Laganas or Limini Keri.
Boating on the Northside of Zakynthos – Greatest Points of interest
It’s troublesome to say which facet of the island is extra spectacular. Each side are unbelievably scenic, providing spectacular views of the cliffs, secret coves and crystal clear waters. Here’s what you possibly can see on the northern facet of the island:
The Shipwreck/Navagio Seashore
There isn’t any land entry to this stunning seaside which is surrounded by vertical white cliffs. Till lately, you can anchor down in Navajo Bay and swim to the shore to see the shipwreck unclose. However in September 2022 a 5.4 magnitude earthquake between Kefalonia and Zakynthos sparked a giant landslide.
Though no human life was misplaced, the seaside stays closed as a result of excessive danger or landslides on this space.
The Hidden Treasure Cave
Simply on the opposite facet of Navagio Seashore you’ll discover this cave. At low tide, you’ll see there’s a little opening from the water from the place you possibly can swim contained in the cave. When you go via the slender entrance you’ll end up in a 20 meters excessive cave! Swimming within the turquoise-blue water was a cool and unreal feeling!!
• Blue caves – The Blue Caves are situated on the northern shoreline of Zakynthos, east of Cape Skinari. They’ll solely be accessed by the ocean, so that you’ll have to lease a bot to get right here. The serenity and wonder of those limestone arches and caves is unimaginable! Gliding out and in of them with the boat or swimming within the turquoise waters round is an expertise you received’t quickly neglect.
• Hidden coves/seashores – On google, you’ll see “mini seaside accessible by boat” simply on the opposite facet of Navagio Seashore. There are such a lot of seashores like this—with white sand, turquoise water, and white cliff wall—alongside the coast so cease alongside as many as you possibly can.
Boating on the Southside of Zakynthos – Greatest Points of interest
The southern facet of Zakynthos is equally spectacular and fairly simple to navigate. However it is best to hold your eyes on the water for hidden rocks which will disguise proper beneath the floor. It additionally has lots of small, pleasant seashores on which you’ll cease for a fast swim. Here’s what you possibly can see when boating on the southern facet:
Marathonisi, aka “Turtle Island”
Marathonisi is a tiny uninhabited island simply 3 km off Keri Seashore. However this seemingly insignificant isle supplies one of many final remaining sanctuaries for the endangered loggerhead turtles in Zante (scientific identify: Caretta Caretta). We weren’t capable of see turtles close to this island, however that’s most likely as a result of we didn’t know the place to look. However for those who lease a ship with a captain, it is best to so positively ask him to seek out some to observe.
Keri Caves
Keri Caves – These took me without warning and ended up being my favourite spot of the day. We swam in right here a bit and had a good time.
Mizithres Cliff Rock
This fabulous limestone cliff is as spectacular to see from above as it’s to see from the water. Technically the rental boats are supposed to show round from this level, however we ventured just a little previous the rock to catch a greater view of it within the afternoon solar.
Small Seashores
Similar to the north shore, the southern a part of Zakynhos has numerous small seashores tucked between the limestone cliffs. The water round them is calm and clear, so make sure you cease at as lots of them as you possibly can.
Different Issues to Do in Zakynthos In addition to Boating
Belief me after I say that Zakynthos is one in every of Greece’s most original islands. Sure, all of the Greek islands are stunning and value visiting, however Zante is really particular! Not solely does it have an impressive shoreline dotted with attractive seashores, hidden coves and spectacular white cliffs, however it additionally has an excessive amount of inland sights.
So listed below are among the greatest issues you are able to do in your vacation in Zante:
Go to Cameo Island
This stunning small island situated off shore of Laganas was as soon as a part of Zakynthos, however in 1633 a giant earthquake separated this piece of land from the primary island. Cameo Island obtained its identify from the church on it, which has been there sixteen centuries. Immediately the small island is simple to succeed in on foot through a brief wood bridge.
As a result of it’s a non-public island they cost a small entrance charge, however that comes with a memento or a free welcome drink on the seaside bar. The island is commonly used for wedding ceremony receptions and different events
Go Swimming at Porto Limnionas
In case you had been to go to only one spot on the island of Zakynthos, I’d say go to Porto Limnionas. This is likely one of the stunning however most hidden locations on all the island. To get there it’s important to go via the mountain village of Agios Leon and from there drive down all the way down to the ocean, following the indicators. The street ends in a small sq. the place you possibly can park. Subsequent to the parking you’ll see a picturesque taverna under that are two terraces with loungers and umbrellas.
From there a number of steps carved within the rock that result in the stupefying cove with turquoise, translucent waters. The water is so clear you could see the underside from excessive up, on the cliff. Apart from the restaurant and a small improvised dive store, there aren’t any different amenities right here.
Despite the fact that it’s fairly effectively hidden, Porto Limniona is packed throughout the summer season months. However for those who come off season, or very early morning, you will have this place all to your self.
Stroll Alongside the Port Promenade
Proper subsequent to Agios Dionisio’s Church begins a stunning stroll of roughly a mile alongside the seafront. There are a great deal of cafes and pubs alongside the promenade, a number of small fishing boats moored right here, fishermen promoting their catch to passers by and fairly a number of benches the place you possibly can sit and admire the view.
Navagio is likely one of the most stunning and photographed seashores on the planet, so no marvel guests flock to go to it. Whereas seaside itself might be accessed solely by boat, the very best view of the seaside and the shipwreck is definitely from the vertical cliffs that encompass it. However It takes just a little work to get to get to the point of view the place these iconic Navagio photographs are captured.
The point of view is about an hour away from Zakynthos City, on the street to Anafonitria Monastery. The route is marked with indicators for Navagio (Shipwreck) Seashore. There’s a small parking zone subsequent to the indicators and proper past that you simply’ll see a suspended platform surrounded by railings. Nonetheless, the very best views of the seaside usually are not at this level. In case you proceed to the fitting of the platform, you’ll see a slender path that goes alongside the cliffs’ edge. In case you proceed on it, you’ll get to a small promontory from the place you’ll have a a lot better view.
The hike is taken into account fairly harmful as in some locations it will get fairly near the sting of the cliff. Since accidents occurred right here prior to now, the native authorities closed the entry to the path with a wire fence. However keen guests managed to chop a gap into it, so you possibly can proceed at your individual danger. In case you determine to enterprise on it, be very cautions and ensure you put on good mountain climbing sneakers, NOT flip flops!
Swim at Dafni Seashore
This can be a stunning sandy seaside with crystal-clear waters is situated within the southeastern a part of Zakynthos. In case you go to the seaside off season chances are high you’ll discover only a few individuals right here, however in summer season this place is packed.
Entry to the seaside is on a slender, grime street that that’s form of troublesome to drive on. On the finish of the street there’s a free parking zone from the place you’ll descend to the seaside. Subsequent to the seaside entrance there’s a beach-bar that serves refreshments.
Daphne is likely one of the most stunning seashores on the Vasilikos Peninsula and one of many locations the place Loggerhead Sea Turtles come for breeding.
Stroll Round Zakynthos City
Zakynthos City is the capital of the island and the very best place to expertise it’s to stroll round in its heart. The most well-liked a part of city is the realm between Alexander Roma Avenue and twenty first Maiou Avenue as much as San Marco Sq.. Right here you’ll discover a sequence of outlets of varied sorts, bars and eating places. Within the evenings, the town heart comes alive with vacationers searching for locations to eat, have a drink or simply purchase souvenirs.
Zante City has a number of stunning squares the biggest of which is Dionysios Solomos sq.. Right here you’ll see the statue of the poet Dionysios Solomons, who wrote Grece’s nationwide anthem and in addition the Byzantine Museum.
Xigia Seashore (“Sulphur Seashore”)
At first sight, Xigia Seashore might not appear any totally different from different small seashores you will have seen. However what makes it particular is the truth that the waters right here include a considerable amount of sulphur, which could be very noticeable as you strategy the seaside. Therefore the nickname Sulphur Seashore.
The sulphur comes from the neighboring caves and has therapeutic properties. Sulphuros waters have antifungal and antibacterial properties that may soothe and even assist heal the pores and skin. They’re additionally good for arthritis ache. However Xigia Seashore is good to go to even for those who don’t undergo from any of those circumstances.
Step Inside Agios Dionysios Church
Positioned in Outdated city, only a few steps from the port, you’ll see the imposing constructing of Agios Dionysios – the biggest church in Zante. Agios Dionysos is taken into account the patron saint and the protector of the island.
The primary chapel to honor the saint was constructed on this web site within the 18th century, however it was fully destroyed in an earthquake in 1893 after which rebuilt within the twentieth century. The constructing survived the devastating earthquake of 1953, which is why the locals contemplate it a miracle.
Go to the Outdated Venetian Fortress
Above Zakynthos City, on the hill of Bohali, stand the stays of an previous Venetian Citadel. Through the Venetian rule, the Citadel was the capital of Zakynthos island. The fortress was constructed on the ruins of an historic acropolis, named Psofida. The date of the development is unsure, however it most likely goes again to the 1480s, when the Venetians occupied the island.
Sadly, not a lot is left of the Venetian Citadel that when stood guard over the town under. The sturdy earthquakes which have incessantly struck the island destroyed the fortification nearly fully. However no matter traces stay, will nonetheless offer you an thought of how stunning this fortress as soon as was.
Go Wine Tasting
Wine tasting will not be your first precedence if you go to Zante, however don’t miss the chance to style the island’s well-known wines if you’re right here. There are over 19,000 acres devoted to rising vines on Zakynthos and dozens of various grape varieties.
The island is legendary for its crimson Avgoustiatis (which has been grown right here because the 14th century) and yellow-gold Robola, so make sure you style them.
Get pleasure from Dinner on the Windmill Taverna
Zakynthos has loads of eating places, cafés and tavernas serving recent, native specialties. We eat in fairly a number of locations however had been notably impressed with the dinner we had on the Windmill Taverna, situated on the southern a part of the island, within the Vasilikos Peninsula. The restaurant has a stupendous terrace that overlooks the ocean and Marathonisi Island.
On the menu one can find many decisions and we propose you to strive the bruschetta with fragrant oil, cherry tomatoes and parmesan, the blended salad of younger salad leaves with Greek prosciutto, gruyere cheese and balsamic dressing and the recent fish. They serve scrumptious Greek dishes cooked with the purest elements. The service was additionally very immediate, so I can extremely suggest this place
The place to Keep When Visiting Zakynthos
You’ll discover loads of accommodations all around the island of Zakynthos. Whether or not you select to remain within the northern or southern a part of the island, you’ll discover glorious lodging in all places. Most first time guests nonetheless select to remain in Zakynthos City, which is thought for its boutique accommodations nestled within the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea.
$$ Avalon Palace Resort. This can be a mid-range lodge situated above the port of Zakynthos. We stayed right here in October and since it was low season they upgraded us to a set with a non-public pool overlooking the ocean. Nonetheless, all of the rooms are snug and trendy, and breakfast is served up on the best room, on a stupendous terrace overlooking the ocean.
$$ Palatino Resort. This can be a good lodge situated close to the seaside in Zakynthos, only a few minutes stroll to Solomos Sq.. The accommodations provides sea view rooms, free breakfast, free parking and has restaurant on the premises.
$$$ Lesante Traditional – Most popular Accommodations & Resorts. This can be a luxurious lodge situated at Tsilivi Seashore. The lodge provides complimentary breakfast and parking and encompasses a good swimming pool. Rooms are spacious and stylish. The lodge is children pleasant and has a playground and a playroom.
How Many Days to Spend in Zakynthos
Most individuals go to Zakynthos as a part of an island hopping itinerary and due to this fact marvel how a lot time to allocate to every island. If that’s your plan, it is best to think about the time you’ll use in your transfers between the islands.
Between checking in/out of accommodations, going to and from the ports and the precise time used for the journey, you’ll spend the very best a part of one full day on the street. My suggestion is to plan 3-4 days in Zakynthos to correctly take pleasure in all its stunning websites. You’ll want two full days only for boating across the Northside and Southside of the island. Conservatively, I’d say it is best to plan on spending at the very least 3 full days right here.
