Holidays in Zakynthos: Ten Reasons to Visit the Island
Why visit Zakynthos (Zante)? Check out our top 10 reasons and you’ll be on the first plane to the island!
Zakynthos—or Zante, as the Venetians affectionately called it—is no ordinary island. Tucked away like a secret paradise in the sparkling Ionian Sea, the island’s olive groves whisper to sapphire tides, and its golden beaches stretch beneath the Ionian sun. The Venetians ruled Zakynthos for over three centuries, but its lush beauty inspired them to name it “Fiore di Levante”—the Flower of the East. Time has passed, yet the name still lingers, as the island blooms more brilliantly with time.
Whether searching for a relaxing seaside escape, an adventure through hidden coves carved by time and foam, or a walk through a history layered with myth, empires, and melodies, Zakynthos offers it all, wrapped in a light that feels eternal. As the sun melts into the sea, and the waters turn molten gold, you begin to understand why this island has been a muse to poets, painters, and travellers for centuries.
1. Greece’s Most Iconic Cove: Navagio, the Shipwreck Beach
Greece’s most iconic cove, Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is the most photographed beach in Greece. It’s a place where myth and sea intertwine. Encircled by towering limestone cliffs that rise like marble cathedrals, this hidden bay feels like a secret written in sand and the silent bones of a fallen vessel. The vivid turquoise waters of Navagio Beach glow with such intensity that they seem unreal, creating a striking contrast against the dramatic cliffs and the weathered remains of the shipwreck that rests on the sands.
The view is breathtaking from above—a theatre of color and stone, where the cliffside opens up to reveal this improbable jewel. It’s a scene of wild stillness that lingers in memory long after the photo is taken. To truly experience Navagio, book a boat trip that will carry you through waters as clear as glass before gently delivering you to the soft, golden sands of the cove.
Whether admired from the cliffs or explored on foot, Navagio is not just a beach—it’s Zakynthos’ most captivating poem, written in salt, light, and legend.

2. The Mesmerising Blue & Keri Caves
Blue is the colour that defines Zakynthos, and nowhere does it shine brighter than within the ethereal depths of the Blue and Keri Caves. The sky’s deepest hue mingles with the sea and the sun, creating an almost magical blend of aquamarine that seems to pulse with life.
Paddle gently through rock archways carved by time, with walls shimmering in hues of turquoise and cobalt, and every turn revealing hidden chambers. Dive into crystal-clear waters that are so pure that they reflect the island’s very soul, and where light and sea play together in an ever-changing palette of blue. The caves offer an unforgettable experience for the adventurous spirit and a haven for the romantic heart, offering a timeless escape into nature’s quiet wonder.

3. Caretta Caretta Sea Turtles and Marine Life
Zakynthos is a protected refuge, home to the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), whose gentle presence graces the island’s shores. Laganas Bay, celebrated for its stunning beaches, is also a marine park where sea turtles return yearly to nest in peace. The bay’s waters, calm and clear, offer the perfect haven for these beautiful creatures to lay their eggs, ensuring the next generation thrives.
Through respectful eco-tourism, visitors are given the rare and privileged opportunity to witness these magnificent beings up close, connecting with nature in its purest form. In return, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance that sustains this unique ecosystem, forever reminded of the precious life that calls Zakynthos home.

4. Beaches for Every Mood
Zakynthos offers the perfect stretch of sand. The island delivers the tranquility of hidden coves and lively, cosmopolitan beaches.
Tsilivi and Laganas Beach, with their sun-drenched sands, are alive with the energy and excitement of water sports. Enjoy the clear, blue waters that invite you to dive into adventure and the bustling atmosphere that promises endless fun under the Mediterranean sun.
Gerakas Beach is nestled within an eco-protected area and offers a serene escape. It’s a peaceful haven and a sanctuary for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles that return here year after year to nest in the soft sands.
If you visit our island with your family, Keri presents the perfect setting. Its calm, shallow waters stretch lazily along the shoreline and are ideal for young swimmers or those looking to unwind in gentle serenity. Just beyond the bay, the Keri Caves beckon with their sculpted limestone arches and hidden inlets. They offer the perfect opportunity for a quiet exploration by boat or kayak.
If you want something more adventurous, Porto Limionas and Porto Vromi offer hidden coves where the rugged cliffs stand tall, whispering tales of ancient times. With their cliffside charm and untamed beauty, these beaches promise a more intimate connection with nature, away from the crowds, where every wave feels like a secret waiting to be discovered.

Popular Beaches Close To Argassi
5. Zante Town: Culture, Charm & History
Zante Town, the heart of Zakynthos, is a graceful blend of island soul and centuries-old elegance. It is the island’s cultural compass, humming with life, history, and the gentle rhythm of the sea, beneath soft terracotta rooftops and sunlit balconies draped in bougainvillea.
Begin wandering along the Strada Marina, the town’s charming waterfront promenade. Yachts rock lazily in the harbor, cafés spill onto the pavement with the scent of coffee and citrus, and the Ionian breeze carries the melodies of conversation and distant church bells. As you turn inland, the streets grow narrower, more colorful — a mosaic of pastel façades, wrought-iron balconies, and echoes of Venetian grace that survived both time and tremor.
Named after the national poet of Greece, Dionysios Solomos, born here, Solomos Square embraces light and culture. The neoclassical lines of the Byzantine Museum rise with quiet dignity, housing icons, frescoes, and sacred art rescued from churches lost in the great earthquake of 1953. It is a place where silence feels reverent — a bridge to the island’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
However, the town’s jewel is the Church of Agios Dionysios. Its tall bell tower presides over the harbor like a watchful guardian, while inside, gold accents and candlelight lead you toward the silver reliquary of Zakynthos’ beloved patron saint. This sacred space is a site of deep devotion and a masterpiece of post-Byzantine architecture, where faith and beauty reside in harmony.
Zante Town feels like a gentle conversation between centuries, told through archways, piazzas, and the warm hospitality of its people. Walk its streets and step into the path of poets, pilgrims, traders, and dreamers, drawn to the island’s enduring charm.

6. A Taste of Zante: Local Flavors & Wine
Zakynthos’ culinary soul is rich; every dish tells a story passed down through generations. Food is not just nourishment but an art form infused with history and the warmth of the island’s people.
Begin your culinary journey with sweet treats like mandolato, a honeyed nougat with almonds, or pasteli, golden sesame bars that capture the simplicity of Ionian life.
The island’s olive oil—rich, green-gold, and full of sun—pairs perfectly with delicate local cheeses, each bite echoing the island’s pastoral charm.
Even the names of the local specialties are rich and poetic as their flavors: sofigadoura, skordostoumbi, kleftiko, or bourdeto. These slow-cooked stews, full of spices and soul, offer a taste of the island’s warm embrace.
If you love wine, don’t miss Zakynthos’ hidden treasures. Avgoustiatis and Robola are native varieties that speak of the island’s unique terroir. Enjoy them at the island’s family-run wineries, where laughter and stories blend with the scent of the vines.
Whether you’re savouring a seaside meal of fresh fish or a rustic dish in a quiet mountain village, Zakynthos invites you to feast deeply, to savour every flavor, and to carry its essence long after the last bite.

7. Sunset Watching at Argassi
After a day full of beach life and sea adventures, catch a breathtaking sunset from one of the beachfront bars or viewpoints in Argassi. There’s something truly magical about a sunset over the Ionian Sea. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the sky bursts into a stunning array of colors — from warm oranges to soft pinks and deep purples, painting the water in a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty. It’s a moment that invites reflection, peace, and a sense of wonder.
If you want to experience the perfect Ionian sunset, Target Taverna in Argassi offers an idyllic setting. Our taverna is perched on a peaceful hill and provides a serene atmosphere with an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding area. Relax in our charming garden and enjoy the colorful sky over the Ionian Sea, creating a truly magical evening experience. Whether savoring a delicious dinner or simply soaking in the view, Target Taverna offers the ideal spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a memorable meal.

8. The Magic of Zante’s Villages
To truly feel the heart of Zakynthos, venture beyond the shoreline and into the island’s quiet, sun-washed hills. In the mountain villages, time seems to slow. The island’s spirit reveals itself in the simplest, most beautiful ways; the stone-built homes, hand-tended gardens, and the rhythm of daily life are shaped by tradition and nature.
Villages like Kiliomenos, Loucha, and Ano Gerakari welcome you with their rustic charm and genuine hospitality. Wander in their narrow lanes, stop at a kafeneio for a sip of coffee or a sweet treat, and listen for the soft echo of stories in dialects passed down through centuries. If you are lucky, your visit will coincide with a local panigyri (festival). You’ll find yourself swept up in music, dancing, and the enchanted melodies of traditional kantades — serenades that carry the soul of Zakynthos in every note.

9. Bochali: A Hilltop Escape with History and Views
Just above Zante Town, tucked among pine and olive trees, lies Bochali — a charming hilltop village where history lingers and panoramic views stretch across the Ionian Sea. Find a tranquil perch and gaze down upon Zakynthos’ capital rooftops and harbor, bathed in soft Mediterranean light, while the horizon melts into sky and sea.
Wander its quiet paths and discover the ruins of a Venetian Castle, its ancient stones whispering tales of past centuries. Nearby, the Museum of Dionysios Solomos honors the island’s beloved poet, whose words gave Greece its national anthem. Every corner of Bochali invites you to pause, whether for a peaceful coffee in a shaded square or a reflective moment as the sun sets behind the hills. It’s perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll, soaking in culture and breathtaking scenery.

10. Nature & Adventure All Around
Zakynthos is an island to be explored, not rushed through. Winding hiking trails lead you through ancient olive groves, past timeworn monasteries, and into landscapes where nature and history coexist. Cycling routes unveil sweeping panoramic views. If you love a sense of freedom, you can ride horseback along the shore, the sea breeze in your hair, and the rhythm of hooves echoing across the sand.
If you love the sea, visit the hidden cove of Korakonisi to swim and snorkel in clear waters that blur the line between dream and reality. Just offshore, the enchanting isle of Marathonissi — shaped like a sleeping turtle — rises from the blue like something out of a forgotten myth, waiting to be explored. Every path, every cove, every view here tells a story, and the island invites you to become part of it.

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