Zakynthos, a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea, is a must-visit destination for any tourist seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. This Greek island, also known as Zante, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. With a wide range of activities and attractions available, Zakynthos has something to offer for everyone.
From the world-famous Shipwreck Beach to the hidden gem of Keri Caves, there are plenty of incredible sights to explore on this island paradise. Visitors can enjoy everything from cliff jumping and water sports to sunbathing and exploring local history and culture. With vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Zakynthos is the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable vacation if visiting Greece.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for excitement or simply seeking relaxation in a beautiful setting, Zakynthos is sure to exceed your expectations.
In this article, we’ll highlight the 15 Best Things to do in Zakynthos, based on rankings from top travel sites.
So, pack your bags, put on your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the magic of Zakynthos.
The 15 Best Things to See in Zakynthos
15. Alykes Beach
Alykes Beach is a picturesque and tranquil beach located on the northeast coast of Zakynthos. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and fine golden sand, making it a popular destination for families with children. The shallow waters of Alykes Beach make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
Visitors to Alykes Beach can enjoy a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a stunning view of the Ionian Sea. There are plenty of bars and restaurants along the beach where visitors can relax and enjoy delicious local cuisine. For those seeking a peaceful and relaxing day by the sea, Alykes Beach is the perfect destination.
14. Xigia Beach
Xigia Beach is a small, secluded beach located on the north-east coast of Zakynthos. The beach is unique due to the sulfuric springs that run beneath it, giving the water a therapeutic and healing quality. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs covered in lush greenery, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a day by the sea.
Visitors to Xigia Beach can relax on the pebble beach and enjoy the healing properties of the sulfuric water, or take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters. The beach is not equipped with sunbeds or umbrellas, which adds to its peaceful and secluded charm. There is a small café on the beach where visitors can enjoy a cold drink or a light snack. Xigia Beach is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and therapeutic escape.
13. St. Nicholas Beach
St. Nicholas Beach, also known as Agios Nikolaos Beach, is a hidden gem located on the east coast of Zakynthos. The beach is a secluded cove with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs and lush greenery, providing a natural and peaceful ambiance.
Visitors to St. Nicholas Beach can relax on the pebble beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters, or take a refreshing dip in the sea. The beach is not equipped with sunbeds or umbrellas, which adds to its natural charm. There is a small café on the beach where visitors can enjoy a cold drink or a light snack. St. Nicholas Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a secluded and peaceful day by the sea.
12. Porto Limnionas Beach
Porto Limnionas Beach is a beautiful cove located on the west coast of Zakynthos. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and unique rock formations, which create natural swimming pools in the sea. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs covered in lush greenery, providing a natural and peaceful ambiance.
Visitors to Porto Limnionas Beach can relax on the pebble beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters, or explore the unique rock formations and natural swimming pools. The beach is not equipped with sunbeds or umbrellas, which adds to its natural charm. There is a small café on the beach where visitors can enjoy a cold drink or a light snack. Porto Limnionas Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and natural swimming experience.
11. Cameo Island
Cameo Island is a small, secluded island located just off the coast of Zakynthos. The island is accessible by a wooden bridge and is known for its natural beauty and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and offers a tranquil escape from the busy mainland.
Visitors to Cameo Island can relax on the small pebble beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters, or explore the natural beauty of the island.
There is a small chapel on the island, which is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots. The island also features a bar and restaurant where visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views. Cameo Island is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and secluded escape from the mainland.
10. Water Village
Water Village is a popular water park located in the village of Sarakinado, on the east coast of Zakynthos. The park features a variety of water slides, swimming pools, and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park is set amidst lush greenery and offers a fun and refreshing escape from the heat of the summer.
Visitors to Water Village can enjoy a variety of water slides and attractions, including the Kamikaze slide, the Black Hole, and the Lazy River. There is also a wave pool, a children’s pool, and a Jacuzzi for visitors to enjoy. The park features plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas for visitors to relax and enjoy the sun. There are also a variety of food and beverage outlets throughout the park, offering a range of snacks and refreshments. Water Village is the perfect destination for families and anyone looking for a fun day out.
9. Dionysios Solomos Square
Dionysios Solomos Square is a historic square located in the heart of Zakynthos Town. The square is named after the famous Greek poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote the Greek National Anthem. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and landmarks, including the Town Hall, the Museum of Solomos and Eminent Zakynthians, and the Saint Nicholas Church.
Visitors to Dionysios Solomos Square can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square and take in the historic architecture and landmarks. The square also features plenty of cafes and restaurants, offering a range of local cuisine and refreshments. The square is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Zakynthos.
8. Bohali Castle
Bohali Castle is a historic castle located on a hill overlooking Zakynthos Town. The castle was built during the Venetian occupation of Zakynthos and was used as a fortress to protect the island from invaders. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning panoramic views of Zakynthos Town and the surrounding area.
Visitors to Bohali Castle can explore the ruins of the castle and take in the historic architecture and landmarks. The castle is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful and tranquil escape from the busy town below. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area, offering a range of local cuisine and refreshments. Bohali Castle is the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Zakynthos.
7. Zakynthos town and harbor
Zakynthos Town and Harbor is the bustling capital city of Zakynthos. The town is home to a variety of historic landmarks and attractions, including the Church of St. Dionysios, the Venetian Castle, and the Solomos and Kalvos Museum. The town is also home to a busy harbor, where visitors can watch the boats come and go and enjoy the stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
Visitors to Zakynthos Town can explore the historic landmarks and architecture and immerse themselves in the culture and history of Zakynthos. The town also features plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a range of local cuisine and souvenirs. The harbor is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the hustle and bustle of Zakynthos.
6. Gerakas Beach
Gerakas Beach is a stunning beach located on the southern tip of Zakynthos. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, golden sand. Gerakas Beach is also a protected nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle, making it an important conservation area.
Visitors to Gerakas Beach can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the soft, golden sand or take a walk along the scenic coastal paths. The beach is also a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world and see a variety of marine life. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area, offering a range of local cuisine and refreshments. Gerakas Beach is the perfect destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to relax in a stunning natural setting.
5. Laganas Beach
Laganas Beach is the longest and most popular beach on Zakynthos. The beach is known for its lively atmosphere and nightlife, making it a popular destination for young travelers. Laganas Beach is also a nesting ground for the loggerhead sea turtle, making it an important conservation area.
Visitors to Laganas Beach can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the soft, golden sand or take a walk along the scenic coastal paths. The beach is also a popular destination for water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating. There are also plenty of cafes, bars, and nightclubs in the area, offering a range of food, drinks, and entertainment. Laganas Beach is the perfect destination for young travelers and anyone looking for a lively and fun atmosphere.
4. Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, is a small island located off the southern coast of Zakynthos. The island is a protected nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle, making it an important conservation area. The island is only accessible by boat and offers a peaceful and secluded escape from the mainland.
Visitors to Marathonisi can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island or take a walk along the scenic coastal paths. The island is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with a variety of bird species calling the island home. There are also a variety of boat tours available, offering visitors the chance to explore the island and its surrounding waters. Marathonisi is the perfect destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful and secluded escape.
3. Keri Caves
Keri Caves is a stunning natural formation located on the southwestern coast of Zakynthos. The caves are known for their turquoise waters and stunning rock formations, making them a popular destination for snorkeling and swimming. The caves are only accessible by boat and offer a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Visitors to Keri Caves can explore the caves and their surrounding waters, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The caves are also a popular spot for cliff jumping, with many visitors taking the plunge into the crystal-clear waters below. There are also plenty of boat tours available, offering visitors the chance to explore the caves and their surrounding area. Keri Caves is the perfect destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience.
2. Blue Caves
Blue Caves is a stunning natural formation located on the northern coast of Zakynthos. The caves are known for their stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters, making them a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling. The caves are only accessible by boat and offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Visitors to Blue Caves can explore the caves and their surrounding waters, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The caves are also a popular spot for cliff jumping, with many visitors taking the plunge into the crystal-clear waters below. There are also plenty of boat tours available, offering visitors the chance to explore the caves and their surrounding area.
The blue color of the water in the caves is caused by the reflection of the sunlight on the white rocks, creating a stunning and unique visual effect. Blue Caves is the perfect destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a memorable and magical experience.
1. Shipwreck Beach (Navagio)
Shipwreck Beach, also known as Navagio, is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Greece. The beach is known for its stunning turquoise waters and the rusting hulk of a smuggler’s ship that washed up on its shore in the 1980s. The beach is only accessible by boat, and visitors can take a thrilling ride through the crystal-clear waters to reach the shore.
Visitors to Shipwreck Beach can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the soft, white sand, surrounded by the towering cliffs that frame the beach. The beach is also a popular spot for cliff jumping, with many visitors taking the plunge into the crystal-clear waters below. There are also plenty of boat tours available, offering visitors the chance to explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning natural beauty of the beach and its surroundings. Shipwreck Beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a truly breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
