What to do in Zakynthos (Zante)

Zakynthos, or Zante (as it is also known), is a popular Greek Island holiday destination, located west of the Peloponnese. Zakynthos is part of the Ionian group of islands, and is just south of Kefalonia.

Zante boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, stunning crystal-clear waters and a multitude of opportunities for practicing free diving, scuba diving and snorkeling. This island, the 3rd largest of the Ionian Islands, is a paradise of white sand beaches, beautiful rocky coastline and thriving marine life. Zakynthos is best explored either by boat – to discover the coastline and hidden coves and caves, or by mountain bike or quad bike to reach all the unexplored inland areas and to take in the beauty of this lush, green island.

Boasting a whole host of incredible beaches - some of the best in the Greek Islands, this Mediterranean paradise of swimming, eating – with phenomenal Greek cuisine to try, mountains to hike and rugged cliffs and caves to explore and traverse, this island is perfect for adventure and beach lovers alike.

White Sand Beaches and Blue Caves

Head to the world-famous Shipwreck Beach (also named Navagio Beach) and take in the views of the beautiful blue waters, white sand and forty year old shipwreck, after which the beach is named. This beach is also stunning seen from above - to do so, head to the Navagio Beach Viewpoint on the overlooking cliff. It is also famous the world over for being one of the most stunning places for B.A.S.E jumping.

Porto Roxa, a rocky cove with crystal clear blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, is another great place to head for some swimming, diving and relaxation, on the opposite side of the island (in the south-west). It’s also the perfect place to watch the sunset over the calm waters of the Ionian Sea. Another secluded bay and hidden gem for swimming and diving is Korakonissi, only a 7km drive from Porto Roxa.

Head just under 2km north up the coast from Porto Roxa and visit Porto Limnionas Beach, another lesser-known spot, with beautiful white rocky cliffs surrounding, and in beautiful contrast with, the clear blue waters. This location is a great place for snorkeling and has a wide variety of marine life to swim or dive amongst.

Go on a boat tour or hire a sail boat to visit some of the more secluded swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving spots dotted along the island’s coastline. The Blue Caves, in the North of Zakynthos, a great place for a family holiday adventure – with iridescent blue waters and limestone arches, this natural phenomenon is visited and seen from small boats.

A beautiful spot that is great for scuba diving and free diving is Laganas Beach, in the south-east of the island, a popular stretch of beach with the charming little island of Cameo accessible by footbridge. Visiting Isola di Cameo is a great post-beach afternoon activity that offers some stunning views.

Local Cuisine, Culture and Zante City

The capital of Zakynthos, the town of the same name, is a popular destination for tourists from around the globe, attracted to the city’s vibrant and exciting atmosphere. This location offers a great mix of city vibes with fascinating history and culture, with great views to be discovered and renowned Greek cuisine and seafood to be tried.

Top historical spots to visit in the city of Zante include the ruins of the 15th century Venetian castle in the area of Bohali, an area overlooking Zante town – offering stunning views of the city’s red-roofed buildings and an interesting insight into the history of this fascinating island. The Agiou Markou Square in the centre of the city offers some great architecture, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to sit outside of in the Mediterranean sunshine.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Zakynthos is the perfect place to head under the water to experience some unforgettable scuba diving and snorkeling experiences, surrounded by the island’s diverse and flourishing marine life. Take the opportunity to dive and snorkel with sea creatures such as octopi, loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) - which famously nest in Zakynthos, bluefish, parrotfish and a whole host of other reef fish and groupers.

Snorkeling in Zante is a great family activity – create fun holiday memories exploring the crystal clear waters, spotting turtles and colourful reef fish. Take an introductory scuba diving course in these gorgeous blue waters, coming into close contact with sea urchins, moray eels and a whole host of beautiful marine life. This area is one of the best for scuba diving in Europe, given its crystal clear waters with visibility of up to 40m, flourishing marine life and interesting diving spots of naturally occurring rock formations and caves to explore.