Zakynthos Travel Guide – The most beautiful Greek island: The ultimate island guide

If you asked me what the most beautiful island in Europe is, I would name Zakynthos without hesitation. This island in the Ionian Sea offers crystal-clear, turquoise waters that rival the Maldives—and all of this is just a three-hour flight from Germany! In this travel guide, I'll share everything you need to know about Zakynthos so you can enjoy your vacation on the Greek island to the fullest!

Don't have time to read? Here's a quick overview of the most important information:

When is the best time to travel to Zakynthos?

The best time to travel to Zakynthos is from April to October, with April-May and September-October being particularly recommended due to pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

How do I get to Zakynthos?

Zakynthos has an international airport (ZTH), which has direct flights from many European cities during peak season. Alternatively, you can arrive via Athens and a ferry.

Which beaches should I visit in Zakynthos?

The most beautiful beaches on Zakynthos are: Porto Limnionas Beach, Myzithres Beach and Filippoi Beach.

How can I see the shipwreck at Navagio Beach?

The best way to reach the beach is by boat. There's also a viewing platform above the beach that offers impressive views. But note: Navagio Beach is no longer accessible!

Which sights should I not miss on Zakynthos?

You should definitely visit Mizihtres Beach and Mizihtres Viewpoint as well as Navagio Bay!

Are there opportunities for diving and snorkeling on Zakynthos?

Yes, Zakynthos has several diving schools. The region is known for its clear waters and encounters with sea turtles, especially around Laganas Bay.

Can you see sea turtles on Zakynthos?

Yes, Zakynthos is an important nesting site for the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), especially in Laganas Bay. Boat tours often offer the chance to observe them in the wild.

Is Zakynthos family-friendly?

Yes, many beaches have gentle slopes, making them ideal for children. There are also many family-friendly hotels and activities like water parks.

Do I need a car on Zakynthos?

A rental car is highly recommended to explore the island at your own pace, especially since public transport is limited.

General information about Zakynthos:

Zakynthos (also called Zante) is one of the most picturesque Greek islands in the Ionian Sea. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nature, and historical sights. Zakynthos is the third largest of the Ionian Islands, after Corfu and Kefalonia. The island lies south of Kefalonia and northwest of the Greek city of Patras.

Thanks to Zakynthos International Airport, the island is easily accessible by plane and ferry (e.g. from Kyllini).

Best time to visit Zakynthos:

The ideal time to visit Zakynthos is between June and October . However, the hot summer months (July to August) can be uncomfortably hot, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius. This increases the risk of fire and could lead to the closure of some of the island's highlights.

However, I would recommend choosing the months of May-June or September-October. During these times, temperatures are still pleasant, the water is warm, and the island is less crowded.

Recommended travel duration : 1 week – Ideal for discovering Zakynthos in a relaxed manner.

Getting to Zakynthos:

There are direct flights to Zakynthos from various airports in Germany (Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Munich, Berlin, and Stuttgart). There are also daily ferry connections from the Greek mainland, such as Kyllini, Paxi, Corfu, Sami, and Lefkada.

Getting around the island:

Rental car : A rental car is the best way to explore Zakynthos. The roads are well-maintained, and you can easily reach remote beaches and viewpoints.

Quads/Scooters : Quads and scooters are also particularly popular. Rental prices are cheaper than for cars, and parking is easier. However, I have personally witnessed a few accidents involving quads on Zakynthos—drive carefully and don't underestimate your abilities.

Bus: For travelers on a budget, the local KTEL buses are a good option. Most connections depart from the capital, Zakynthos Town. However, the bus schedule is limited to the main routes and is less reliable during the off-season. I must admit that I didn't see a single bus either time I was on the island (twice in September). Therefore, I would prefer the first two options.

Nightlife on Zakynthos:

If you're looking for a party holiday, Laganas is the perfect place for you—Zakynthos' nightlife hotspot. Laganas particularly attracts young travelers and is known for its lively party scene, with a wealth of clubs, bars, and beach parties that last until the early hours. The promenade is especially popular with British guests, as Zakynthos is to the British what Mallorca is to the Germans.

Location of the accommodation:

I would recommend everyone to choose accommodation near Laganas or Zakynthos Town, as this is where the nightlife is most vibrant. From restaurants to bars to clubs, the promenades offer a wide selection, and the best spots are just a short walk away.

On my last trip to Zakynthos, our accommodation was near Shipwreck Beach. As spectacular as the location was during the day, we quickly realized that the long walk into the city center for dinner and evening activities was a challenge. An hour-long round trip just for a restaurant or a drink – in retrospect, I would have preferred to avoid that.

The most beautiful places on Zakynthos:

1. Myzithres

For me, Myzithres is the most beautiful spot on the entire island. The view from above always takes my breath away. But Myzithres Beach, down by the rock, is also, in my opinion, the most beautiful beach on Zante. So, I'm splitting Myzithres into two parts.

The Myzithres Viewpoint

The first part is the view from above of Myzithres. This viewpoint is very easy to reach by car or similar means. Drive to the Keri Lighthouse Restaurant. There is a free parking lot there. From there, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to the viewpoint. The path up isn't a hiking trail, but it's not a flat or straight path either. It can be quite strenuous in hot weather.

Important : This is not a secure area ; you look directly down from the cliffs – without a fence or any safety equipment. Please don't risk your life just for a nice photo!

Myzithres Beach

The second part is the beach down by the rock. In my opinion, this is the most beautiful beach on the entire island. Unfortunately, you can only get here by boat. If you have the opportunity to take a boat tour, definitely do it!

But you can also get seriously ripped off when renting a boat. That's what happened to us on our first visit to the island. On our second visit, we tried again and hit the jackpot. We took our boat tour with Calypso Boat Rentals & Tours. It was by far one of the best boat tours I've ever done! You definitely shouldn't miss Myzithres Beach.

2. Navagio or Shipwreck Beach

Navagio Bay , also known as Shipwreck Beach or "Smugglers' Bay," is one of the most famous sights on Zakynthos and one of the most famous photo spots in Greece. Located in the northwest of the island, the bay boasts clear, turquoise waters, steep cliffs, and the famous shipwreck lying on the beach.

The story of the shipwreck:

The iconic shipwreck in the bay is that of the MV Panagiotis , a smuggling vessel that ran aground here in the 1980s. It's said that the vessel was illegally transporting cigarettes and alcohol and was stranded in a storm while fleeing the coast guard. The crew reportedly abandoned the ship, and the wreckage was left on the beach.

Since then, the rusty ship has given the bay a mystical and special atmosphere and earned it the nickname “Smugglers’ Cove”.

The beach itself has been completely closed since September 2022. Previously, access was permitted. However, concerns about impending landslides are too great. The worst incident occurred in 2018, when seven people were injured in a landslide.

The bay still offers breathtaking views from above, and even from below, in the form of boat tours, the beauty of this place is hard to describe.

3. Filippoi Beach

Filippoi Beach is a rather hidden cove on Zakynthos. It's located on the west coast of the island, away from the more popular tourist beaches. However, it's gaining increasing attention. Parking is available right up to the cove. The beach is made up of white pebbles, and the water is crystal-clear and bright blue. However, entering the water is a bit tricky without water shoes. Furthermore, the cove is unspoiled, meaning there are no restrooms, beach chairs, or restaurants here!

4. Plakaki Viewpoint

In the southwest of the island, you'll find a spectacular viewpoint – the Plakaki Viewpoint. The access is along a partially unpaved road, but it's easily accessible with a regular car. From the parking lot, a hiking trail, partially over rocky terrain, leads directly to the viewpoint.

From here, there's also a hiking trail down to Plakaki Beach. The descent is quite challenging, however, and sturdy footwear and good physical condition are essential. The path is not always secured and can be slippery and difficult to navigate depending on the weather conditions.

5. Porto Limnionas Beach

This bay is probably the most famous on the island and also the most visited. Here you'll find a tavern, parking, sun loungers, and even a diving center. The bay is a natural rocky cove surrounded by limestone cliffs and caves. You even have the opportunity to swim into one of them. Entry into the water is via rocky areas. However, there are also several ladders and stairs that make getting in and out easier.

6. Keri Caves

Another highlight on Zakynthos are the Keri Caves. These are located on the southwest coast of the island. The caves are only accessible by boat. Boat tours to explore the caves are offered everywhere, but as mentioned above, there are also a lot of bad apples. I again recommend our boat rental. With these, we really had enough time to explore the caves at our own pace.

The Keri Caves consist of various natural caves and rock formations that have been formed over thousands of years by erosion. Some caves are even large enough to be entered by boat during a tour. The water in and around the caves is incredibly clear and has a vibrant blue color, which is further enhanced by the reflection of sunlight.

7. Xigia Sulphur Beach

Xigia Sulfur Beach is one of the most unusual beaches in Zakynthos. It is known for its natural sulfur springs , which give the water a milky-blue color and a distinctive smell.

The water at Xigia Beach contains natural sulfur, which seeps into the sea through a nearby sulfur spring. The sulfur content in the water is said to help with skin problems, muscle tension, and joint pain. Many visitors come to enjoy the sulfur-rich water as a natural "wellness therapy."

The beach is located on the northeast coast of Zakynthos, near the village of Katastari, about 20 kilometers from Zakynthos Town.

The beach is easily accessible by car and there are parking spaces above the beach.

Tip: The bay can get quite crowded during peak season, as it's small and the sunbathing area is limited to the pebble beach. It's therefore quieter early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

8. Blue Caves

Another highlight on Zakynthos are the Blue Caves. Located on the north coast of Zakynthos, these are one of the island's most famous natural attractions . These caves feature vibrant blue water and mesmerizing light effects created by the sunlight reflecting off the white limestone.

The caves are again only accessible by boat , but I have a little tip for you. The Blue Caves are located next to the picturesque Skinari Lighthouse viewpoint . From there, you can swim in the same water as the Blue Caves without even taking a boat tour.

There are also free loungers and even a diving platform. This bay is truly perfect for a day at the beach. A ladder leads into and out of the water. You'll also find a restaurant and plenty of parking here.

9. Zakynthos Town

Zakynthos Town is the capital of the Greek island. It is a charming port city and the cultural and economic center of the island. It is located on the east coast of the island. It is relatively compact and easy to explore on foot.

Important: The city is closed from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Therefore, it's best to plan your visit to the capital in the morning or evening. Here, you'll find a wide selection of truly beautiful and delicious restaurants. Simply stroll through the beautiful city and shop in the small shops.

My insider tip:

By far the most delicious restaurant on the entire island, in my opinion, is definitely Apollo Greek Cuisine. If you have the chance and are in the area, you absolutely have to go! I mean, how delicious does the food look?!

The restaurant is located at the following address:

By the way : Follow me on my social media channels to get exclusive insights into my travels! On Instagram (@juliantravelstheworld), I'll take you to the most beautiful places in the world, share insider tips, inform you about local prices, and show you my accommodations. I'll link everything for you so you're perfectly prepared. Let's discover the most beautiful places in our world together!

More impressions of Zakynthos:

Conclusion:

Zakynthos completely enchanted me – the island offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, natural wonders, exciting nightlife, and relaxing moments. The spectacular views, like those at Shipwreck Beach, will remain with me for a long time. If you have the opportunity, visit Zakynthos for an unforgettable trip full of adventure and relaxation.

Looking back, I would recommend everyone to choose accommodation near the lively areas for easy access to the many restaurants and bars in the evening. Zakynthos is a place full of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences!