Known as Zante to many international travellers, Zakynthos is one of the most captivating destinations in the Ionian Sea. Its appeal goes far beyond the famous photographs: protected marine habitats, traditional villages, historic squares, local music, Mediterranean cuisine and spectacular coastal landscapes create an island that rewards those who take the time to explore it.
From the lively streets of Zakynthos Town to secluded coves accessible only by boat, every part of the island offers a different perspective.

Located off the western coast of mainland Greece, Zakynthos is the southernmost and third-largest of the Ionian Islands. Its landscape is remarkably diverse, combining dramatic western cliffs, fertile valleys, olive groves, pine-covered hills and long sandy beaches.

The island’s western coastline is rugged and cinematic, while the south and east offer sheltered bays and beaches with exceptionally clear Ionian waters.

This contrast is part of what makes a “Zakynthos holiday” so rewarding. You can spend the morning swimming in a secluded bay, the afternoon exploring a traditional village and the evening enjoying dinner beside the sea.

Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, French and British influences have all contributed to the island’s cultural identity. The Venetian period, in particular, left a lasting architectural and artistic legacy. Zakynthos became part of the modern Greek state in 1864, joining the Ionian Islands in their union with Greece.

The island’s history can still be experienced today not simply in museums, but in its architecture, music, traditions, churches, cuisine and everyday life.

Zakynthos Town, or Chora, is the natural starting point for discovering the island.

Set beneath Bochali Hill, the capital combines elegant squares, waterfront promenades, historic churches, cafés and remnants of its Venetian past. Much of the town was rebuilt following the devastating 1953 earthquake, creating the distinctive character visitors see today.

Take time to explore Solomos Square, wander through the streets around Agios Markos Square, visit the Museum of Solomos and Eminent Zakynthians, and discover the island’s religious heritage at the Church of Saint Dionysios, dedicated to Zakynthos’ patron saint.

Above the town, Bochali offers one of the most atmospheric places to watch the sun set over Zakynthos.

The kantades, traditional Zakynthian serenades, remain one of the island’s most distinctive musical traditions.

Zakynthos is also the birthplace of Dionysios Solomos, Greece’s national poet and author of the words of the Greek national anthem.

For visitors, this cultural heritage is best experienced slowly, through local music, village festivals, traditional food and conversations around a long Mediterranean table.

Zakynthos is not only beautiful above the water. The island is internationally recognized for its population of Caretta caretta, the loggerhead sea turtle.

The southern beaches of Zakynthos provide important nesting grounds, with areas including Gerakas, Dafni, Kalamaki and Laganas forming part of the protected marine environment.

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos protects these habitats and the surrounding waters.

With responsible exploration, visitors can experience the island’s marine environment through boat excursions, swimming and coastal adventures, while respecting the wildlife that makes Zakynthos unique.

The island’s most famous landmark is Navagio, often known as Shipwreck Beach, whose dramatic white cliffs and turquoise waters have made it one of Greece’s most recognisable landscapes.

But Zakynthos is much more than Navagio.

Discover quieter beaches, hidden coves and secluded swimming spots by car, on foot or from the water. Explore the coastline by boat, swim inside sea caves and watch the changing colours of the Ionian Sea as the afternoon light moves across the cliffs.

The best way to experience Zakynthos is to explore beyond the obvious.

Drive through the island’s mountainous interior and discover olive groves, vineyards, pine forests and traditional villages. Stop at a family-run taverna for local dishes, visit a small church or simply follow a road towards the coast and see where it takes you.

For active travellers, Zakynthos offers hiking, sailing, diving, kayaking, swimming and boat excursions.

For those looking for a slower experience, there are equally rewarding days spent beside the pool, enjoying a long lunch, exploring a village or watching the sunset from the western coast.

Zakynthos can be peaceful, romantic and remarkably lively — depending on where you choose to go.

For relaxed evenings, explore the restaurants and cafés of Zakynthos Town, enjoy dinner beside the water or head to Bochali for panoramic sunset views.

Resorts such as Tsilivi offer restaurants, bars and a lively summer atmosphere, while Laganas is known for its energetic nightlife and late-night entertainment.

The beauty of staying on Zakynthos is that you don’t have to choose one version of the island.

You can experience the energy, and return to tranquillity.