Highlights of the Greek island of Zakynthos
Zakynthos is one of the most popular Greek holiday destinations, and not without reason. The island offers something for everyone for the ultimate beach holiday. From beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water to charming villages and a rich culture, you will find everything here for an unforgettable holiday.
Greece
Highlights of the Greek island of Zakynthos
Zakynthos is one of the most popular Greek holiday destinations, and not without reason. The island offers something for everyone for the ultimate beach holiday. From beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water to charming villages and a rich culture, you will find everything here for an unforgettable holiday.
How to get there? From Amsterdam Schiphol you fly to Zakynthos with Transavia in about four hours. Once you arrive at the airport, you are in Kalamaki, Zakynthos Town or Laganas in no time. The island is quite big, so if you plan to explore a lot of it, we recommend renting a car. You can easily do this in advance through platforms such as Sunny Cars or DiscoverCars, where you are well insured straight away. You can pick up your rental car as soon as you arrive at the airport and drop it off there on the way back, which saves you an extra transfer.
Renting a car in Greece is relatively cheap, but keep in mind that the roads can sometimes be challenging. Most roads are easy to drive, but when you approach a bend with limited visibility, it is wise to give a quick toot of the horn to signal that you are coming. That way you stay safe on the road and can fully enjoy the drive across this beautiful island!
Shipwreck
You have probably seen this iconic spot many times on social media, and not without reason: Shipwreck Beach is truly breathtaking. Also known as Navagio Beach, Greek for "shipwreck beach", this is the beach where you can see the famous wreck that washed up here in 1980. The story goes that the ship, carrying contraband from Turkey, got into trouble in bad weather and sank. Luckily the crew managed to abandon the ship, but the cargo was left behind in the sea. The local population soon discovered this and took advantage of the large quantities of cigarettes and whisky that washed ashore. The wreck was never removed and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions on Zakynthos.
The viewpoint above offers a great panoramic view of the beach and the wreck. There is a car park where you can leave your car, but getting to the viewpoint is a challenge. It is best to go early to beat the biggest crowds. The footpath to the viewpoint is somewhat steep and can be slippery, so it is important to wear good shoes and be careful. There is a sheer drop next to you, so stay alert!
Want to experience Shipwreck Beach in a different way? Then you can also take a boat trip. From Agios Nikolaos, where you can also take the boat to Kefalonia, or Porto Vromi, you can book a tour to this famous beach. Pay close attention to which harbour you choose, because we navigated to Porto Vromi but thought we would end up at the other little harbour. So there are two different routes, depending on the harbour you choose: Porto Vromi and Paralia Porto Vromi. Both harbours offer boat trips, which you can book on the spot without reserving in advance.
The boat trip itself was amazing. We went with the Golden Star, a small boat with about 15 people on board. Before we arrived at Shipwreck Beach, we stopped at White Beach, where we had the chance to snorkel. Shipwreck Beach itself can be quite busy, with large boats full of tourists mooring there. We recommend visiting the viewpoint above the beach, because it offers the most beautiful panoramic view and is absolutely worth it!
Porto Limnionas Beach and Porto Roxa Beach
On the west coast of Zakynthos, just below Porto Vromi, you will find the breathtaking Porto Limnionas Beach. It is a beautiful lagoon with clear blue water, but unlike other beaches on the island, there is no sand here, only a rocky coastline. There are sunbeds on the rocks that you can rent, and you can jump from the rocks into the crystal-clear water. Do keep in mind that the rocks can be very slippery from the water, so be careful: we slipped a few times!
It can get quite busy here, especially around midday, as local people also like to come here to relax. So it is best to go early, so you can enjoy the peace and natural beauty without the crowds.
The road to Porto Limnionas can be challenging, with lots of bends and oncoming traffic. At the end of the road you come out onto a dirt track, so keep that in mind, especially if you are travelling in a rental car.
A little further down is Porto Roxa Beach, a similar lagoon where you can also rent sunbeds. There are also several tavernas here, perfect for a tasty meal or a refreshing drink after a day of enjoying the water.
Zakynthos Town (Zante)
Zakynthos Town is in the east of the island and is a charming town that is not too big, which makes it perfect for a pleasant visit. It can take a while to find a good parking spot, so we recommend navigating to Parcheggio pubblico. If there is no space available, you can also park along the promenade, where there are several parking spaces.
The shopping street, Alexandrou Roma, is pedestrianised, which makes it lovely to browse the various shops. Adjacent to it is Agiou Markou Square and a little further on Solomou Square. These are ideal places to sit down and enjoy a drink on one of the pleasant terraces.
Along the promenade and the harbour you will find countless places to eat. Fancy a coffee? Ristretto L'angolo is the perfect place for a good cup of coffee. Want a culinary treat in the evening? Then book a table at Yard of Taste or Prosilio. For a cocktail, head to Base Roof Cocktail Bar. Want to dine with a beautiful view? Then go to Diethnes Cafe Resto Bar, where you can enjoy a great view over Zante.
Cameo Island
This idyllic little island, Cameo Island, was formed by a volcanic eruption in the seventeenth century and has been a magical destination for romantics and adventurers alike ever since. You can easily reach the island via a charming wooden footbridge from Laganas. Entry costs €5 per person, and on arrival your photo is taken, which you receive afterwards as a keyring, a fun souvenir of your visit.
Cameo Island is known for its romantic atmosphere and is often hired for weddings and parties. Still, tourists can also visit the island and enjoy its enchanting surroundings. The island has a small but idyllic beach where you can relax. Sometimes a DJ is playing, whose music makes the atmosphere even more dreamy. The white drapes hanging everywhere give the island an extra magical touch.
Besides enjoying the beach, you can also snorkel here. The clear water offers an excellent opportunity to explore the underwater world, and there is even a good chance you will come across the famous sea turtles of Zakynthos! A visit to Cameo Island is the perfect way to escape the bustle of the island for a while and enjoy the nature, the view and the serene atmosphere.
Laganas
Fancy a night out? Then Laganas is definitely the right place. Here you will find a long strip full of bars and clubs, where you can dance all night and enjoy the lively atmosphere. But do not worry, Laganas also has quiet spots for when you want to escape the crowds or are not looking for them at all.
Want to stay overnight without being bothered by the nightlife? Then stay at Pierros, for example. It is in Laganas, but offers you the peace you are looking for, far from the lively strip.
During the day you can enjoy cosy restaurants and beach clubs on Laganas beach. Carpe Diem is a perfect choice for a romantic lunch or dinner in an atmospheric setting. If you would rather lie in the sun, beach club Havana is ideal. Here you can rent sunbeds for the whole day and relax with a view of the sea. So there is something for everyone, whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation.
Renting a boat
From Laganas you can easily rent a boat, which is a popular activity here. You rent the boat for a few hours and can take the helm yourself. Sail to Turtle Island, for example, also known as Marathonisi. Find a nice spot to moor or drop anchor and jump into the azure water, a guaranteed wonderful adventure! Do not forget to bring your snorkel set, so you can explore underwater life at your leisure!
Keri
At the Keri lighthouse you can enjoy a spectacular view, comparable to that of Shipwreck Beach, but without the shipwreck and with a beautiful view of the lighthouse. Next to the lighthouse there is a restaurant where you can dine with this breathtaking view. Note that it can get very busy here, especially in the evening at sunset. A quieter alternative is Sunset Taverna, a little further up the hill, where you can also enjoy a stunning sunset in a peaceful setting. The village of Keri itself is small and picturesque, set in the mountains. If you want more atmosphere and charming places to eat by the sea, Keri Beach is a better choice. This picturesque village on the east coast of the island offers nice places to eat, such as Mythos Cafe Bar and Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the sea.
Vineyard
Zakynthos is rich in vineyards, and we chose to visit Grampsas Winery, located in the shadow of the impressive Vrachionas mountains. The route there is an experience in itself, with beautiful, scenic roads. Along the way you pass the Eleftherotria Monastery, which of course we could not miss. Before you are allowed into the monastery, your knees and shoulders must be covered, but luckily there are shawls available at the entrance. Inside you can only visit two small rooms, which makes the experience somewhat limited, but from the outside the monastery is absolutely breathtaking. Grampsas Winery has existed since 1630 and is one of the oldest wine producers on the island. You are warmly welcomed here and given an interesting tour of the vineyards. Afterwards it is of course time for the best part of the tour: the wine tasting!
Damianos Caves Restaurant
Looking for a unique place to dine? Damianos Caves Restaurant is the perfect choice. This restaurant is often chosen for weddings and special occasions, and not without reason. The interior is breathtaking, the food is top quality and the view, especially at sunset, is truly magical. Be sure to try the local liqueur Tentura, which is rich in flavours such as clove, cinnamon and nutmeg. We were so enthusiastic that we immediately decided to take a few bottles home!
From breathtaking beaches and spectacular views to picturesque villages and culinary delights. Whether you love adventure, culture or simply relaxing by the water, Zakynthos is an island that offers everything for an unforgettable holiday.
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Practical tips for Zakynthos
Preparation
On the spot
Frequently asked questions about Zakynthos
How long is the flight to Zakynthos? +
From Amsterdam Schiphol you fly to Zakynthos with Transavia in about four hours. From the airport you quickly reach Kalamaki, Zakynthos Town or Laganas.
Do you need a car on Zakynthos? +
If you want to see a lot of the island, we recommend a rental car. Book it in advance, then you can pick it up straight at the airport and drop it off there again. Keep in mind that some roads are challenging.
How do you visit Shipwreck Beach? +
You can drive to the viewpoint above the beach; go early and wear good shoes, because the path is steep and can be slippery. You can also take a boat trip from Agios Nikolaos or Porto Vromi, which you book on the spot. We went with the Golden Star and stopped at White Beach along the way to snorkel.
What are the most beautiful beaches on Zakynthos? +
Besides Shipwreck Beach, Porto Limnionas and Porto Roxa are beautiful lagoons with clear blue water. Laganas beach is nice for a day with beach clubs and restaurants, and on Cameo Island you will find a small, idyllic beach.
Where can you see sea turtles on Zakynthos? +
When snorkelling around Cameo Island there is a good chance you will come across the famous sea turtles. You can also rent a boat from Laganas and sail to Turtle Island (Marathonisi).
How much does a visit to Cameo Island cost? +
Entry costs €5 per person. You reach the little island via a wooden footbridge from Laganas.
Where can you see the most beautiful sunset on Zakynthos? +
At the Keri lighthouse, although it can be very busy there in the evening. A quieter alternative is the Sunset Taverna, a little higher up in the mountains. The sunset at Damianos Caves Restaurant is magical too.
Is Laganas suitable if you are looking for peace and quiet? +
Laganas is known for its nightlife strip, but there are also quiet spots. The Pierros accommodation is in Laganas, but far from the crowds.
Can you go wine tasting on Zakynthos? +
Yes, for example at Grampsas Winery, one of the oldest wine producers on the island (since 1630), with a tour of the vineyards and a tasting. Along the way you pass the Eleftherotria Monastery.