Zante (Zakynthos) holidays

Arrange a holiday to Zakynthos in the summer to swim in the clear and warm coastal water. Book a cruise to Navagio to see the shipwrecked MV Panagiotis beneath the sea cliffs. Sail to the Blue Caves, where natural rock arches and turquoise water create stunning photo ops. And jump in the water to swim next to loggerhead turtles and dolphins. 

The vineyards in the Zante highlands produce grapes for the region’s famous wines. Sample different vintages at the Callinico Winery near Kalipado, or pair your pour with art at Goumas Estate in the island’s northwest mountains. Goumas has sommelier-led tours of its cellars and vineyards.

Spend your Zakynthos holiday exploring the museums and historic sites. Delve into the island’s Italian influence at the Venetian Castle above Zakynthos Town and the imposing Venetian Tower at Exo Chora. You’ll also see ancient aqueducts and the ruins of the Argassi Bridge, only a short drive outside Zakynthos Town.

Zakynthos Town is where to stay on Zakynthos for convenience. Catch buses to the island’s beaches and wineries. Return to spend lazy Zante evenings strolling the seafront promenade or pedestrian-only Roma Street. Explore history and nature with a hike to the Venetian Castle and the surrounding pine forest above the town. 

Good for: History, hiking, beaches

Laganas is the best area to stay on Zakynthos for beach lovers. The town’s namesake beach is long and inviting. Hire an umbrella and sunbed for a day of Zante sunshine and people-watching. For more adventure, try a jet ski or snorkelling. After dark, follow the crowds to Rescue Club and CherryBay and experience the island’s all-night parties.

Good for: Nightlife, beaches, watersports

Tsilivi is the best place to stay on Zakynthos for families. Lounge on free chairs at the beach or experience excitement on the slides at Tsilivi Waterpark. Find mealtime value at Popeye’s Restaurant, known for its generous portions and hearty dishes. Search Main Street for Zante souvenirs, or introduce yourself to the vineyards and vintages of Callinico Winery.

Good for: Family-friendly, beaches, dining

Many things to do with family on Zakynthos revolve around Zante’s beaches. Swim in the shallow, calm waters off Gerakas Beach. Cruise to the Blue Caves or sail a glass-bottom boat to catch sight of the island’s many sea turtles. Then, spend a day riding the slides or drifting through the lazy river at Zante Water Village in Sarakinado.

Look for Zante souvenirs on the main streets in Laganas and Tsilivi. Browse collectibles in Zakynthos Town. Try on locally made shoes in the shops off Solomos Square and pop into clothing boutiques near Agios Markos Square. Don’t miss Razi Aroma when shopping in Zakynthos. This Agios Markos shop sells perfumes inspired by local flowers. 

Learn about literature and ancient history in the museums on Zakynthos. Wander through the three-level Byzantine Museum to glimpse art, frescoes and exhibits on the 1953 earthquake. Discover famous Zakynthian writers and artists at the Solomos & Kalvos Museum. Then, immerse yourself in the island’s wildlife at Helmi’s Natural History Museum in Agia Marina.

The island is famous for its 24-hour dance clubs, but nightlife on Zakynthos is very diverse. Drink and dance until sunrise at Laganas hotspots like Ikon and the Hawaiian Bar. Sample the lively club and taverna scenes in Zakynthos Town and Kalamaki, or enjoy a more laid-back Zante evening at Planet Pub or Main Stage in Tsilivi. 

The best restaurants in Zakynthos Town are around Agios Markos Square. Here, you can taste modern Greek cuisine in an al fresco setting at Paradosiako. For breakfast or lunch, grab a bite with a sea view at Madison's. If you want to try authentic Zakynthian cuisine, reserve a table at Panos in Laganas or Parthenon in Kalamaki. 

Even if you stay near Laganas or Tsilivi, explore the other beaches on Zakynthos. Enjoy the clear water and beachside tavernas at Porto Zoro or find a secluded haven after a short hike to Marathias Beach. Cure your aches at Xigia Beach. The waters around Zante are rich with minerals from nearby caves.