Best Things to Do in Zakynthos: 15+ Unmissable Experiences in Greece’s Hidden Gem
Discover the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece – from Shipwreck Beach to sea caves, hidden coves & hidden gems, and the bluest water you’ve ever seen!
Greece has no shortage of dreamy islands – but somehow, Zakynthos keeps flying under the radar, and honestly? That’s part of what makes it SO special. If you’ve been scrolling through photos of IMPOSSIBLY blue water and dramatic limestone cliffs, wondering where on earth that is, there’s a very good chance it’s Zakynthos. The things to do in Zakynthos range from boat trips past shipwrecks and sea caves to lazy afternoons on some of the most epic beaches in all of Europe – and I’m here to give you the full rundown.
I visited Zakynthos as part of my solo world trip, and I genuinely wasn’t prepared for how stunning it would be. From the moment I laid eyes on the electric blue water at Shipwreck Beach, I was completely in love. This island deserves FAR more attention than it gets, and after reading this guide, I have a feeling it’s going straight to the top of your bucket list!
This guide covers all the best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece – including some seriously hidden gems that most tourists completely miss. Let’s get into it!
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Quick Start Guide to Zakynthos, Greece
📍 Quick Info: Zakynthos, Greece
📍 Country | Greece |
🌍 Region | Ionian Islands |
🌦️ Best time to visit | May–June or September–October |
🕐 How long to spend | 4–7 days |
✈️ Nearest airport | Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) |
💶 Currency | Euro (€) |
🗣️ Language | Greek (English widely spoken) |
🚗 Getting around | Rental car or scooter recommended |
What You Need to Know Before Visiting Zakynthos, Greece
📍 Where is Zakynthos?
Zakynthos – also spelled Zante – is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, sitting off the western coast of the Greek mainland. It’s one of seven major Ionian Islands and is known locally as “the Flower of the Levant,” a nickname that couldn’t feel more fitting once you’ve seen it in person. With a population of around 40,000 people, it’s a proper island with a real community – not just a tourist playground – and that balance gives it a lot of its charm.
🗓️ When to Visit Zakynthos
The best time to visit Zakynthos is May to June or September to October. During these shoulder months, the weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are manageable, and prices are significantly lower than peak summer. July and August are peak season – the island gets VERY busy, especially around the most popular beaches, and accommodation prices spike. That said, if peak summer is your only option, you’ll still have an incredible time – just book everything well in advance and arrive at popular spots early in the morning.
Spring (May–June) is my personal recommendation for first-time visitors. The wildflowers are in bloom, the water is warm enough for swimming, and you’ll might even get to experience some of the island to yourself (!). Trust me – it makes a huge difference.
⏱️ How Long to Visit Zakynthos
Plan for at least 4–5 days to see the highlights, but 7 days is ideal if you want to explore properly and have some days to relax without rushing. The island isn’t huge, but with so many incredible beaches, caves, and viewpoints to discover, a full week flies by faster than you’d expect. If you’re island-hopping around Greece, Zakynthos makes a wonderful stop for 4–5 days before heading on.
✈️ How to Get to Zakynthos
The easiest way to reach Zakynthos is by flying into Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), which receives direct flights from many European cities, especially during the summer season. From Athens, there are frequent direct flights with carriers including Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, and the flight takes less than an hour.
Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Killini on the Greek mainland – the crossing takes about 1.5 hours and is a scenic, budget-friendly option if you’re already traveling by road through the Peloponnese.
🚗 How to Get Around Zakynthos
Roads in Zakynthos are generally well-maintained, though mountain roads to the northwest (where Navagio Beach and many caves are located) can be VERY narrow and winding. Take it slow – the views along the way are worth the careful drive anyway!
🛏️ Where to Stay in Zakynthos
I’d highly recommend booking accommodation well in advance if you’re visiting in summer – the best places fill up FAST. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas and some specific hotels to look at:
🗣️ What Language is Spoken in Zakynthos?
Greek is the official language of Zakynthos. However, English is very widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators – you’ll have no trouble getting around with English. Learning a few basic Greek phrases (like “efharistó” for thank you and “yassas” for hello) will always go down well and earn you a smile from locals!
💶 What is the Currency in Zakynthos?
Greece uses the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted in hotels and most restaurants, though it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller tavernas, beach bars, and parking. ATMs are available in Zakynthos Town and major villages.
15+ Best Things to Do in Zakynthos: Greece’s Most Beautiful (and Underrated) Island
1. Navagio Beach Viewpoint (AKA Shipwreck Beach Viewpoint)
If you do one thing in Zakynthos, make it this – and do it at sunrise or sunset if you possibly can. The Navagio Beach viewpoint sits at the edge of dramatic white limestone cliffs on the northwest coast, and the scene below it is genuinely one of the most spectacular sights I have ever laid eyes on. The electric (and I mean ELECTRIC) blue of the cove, the rusty shipwreck marooned on the white pebble beach, the sheer verticality of those towering cliffs – I’m pretty sure I audibly gasped.
The viewpoint is free to access and is reached via a well-marked road from the village of Anafonitria. There’s a fenced platform right at the cliff’s edge, and the drop below is SIGNIFICANT – don’t let that put you off, but do hold onto children and watch your step. Arrive before 8am in summer to avoid the tour buses.
My top tip: bring a wide-angle lens if you’re a photographer – even a standard phone camera will struggle to capture the full scope of this view. The golden morning light hitting those cliffs is absolutely chef’s kiss.
Where to Stay in Zakynthos
Tsilivi is one of the most popular bases on the island and for a good reason – it has a great sandy beach, plenty of restaurants and shops, and easy access to both Zakynthos Town and the north of the island. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and ideal if you want everything on your doorstep.
Iakinthos Beach Hotel is one of my top picks here – it sits right on the beach with great sea-view rooms, a lovely pool, and genuinely warm service. Reviews rave about the food and the staff.
Zante View is a great mid-range option perched on the hillside above Tsilivi with panoramic views – the sunsets from the terrace are absolutely stunning and the family who runs it are incredibly welcoming. For a more budget-friendly apartment-style stay, Aladdin Tsilivi is a solid choice with a pool, solid breakfast, and a convenient location.
🏨 Argassi – Best for Couples & a Chilled Beach Vibe
Argassi sits just south of Zakynthos Town on the east coast and has a lovely, laid-back atmosphere – it’s popular with couples and those who want easy beach access without the bigger resort crowds. The strip here has some really good restaurants and bars.
Windmill Bay Hotel is a gorgeous boutique-style property right in Argassi with beautiful sea views from every room, excellent breakfasts, and staff who go above and beyond. It consistently gets rave reviews and is one of the most charming stays on this part of the coast.
Diana Palace Hotel is a larger all-inclusive option in Argassi with a pool, entertainment program, and great food – a solid choice if you want everything taken care of.
🏨 Keri & South Zakynthos – Best for Nature & Quiet
The south of the island near Keri is far quieter than the east coast resorts, and staying here puts you within easy reach of the Keri Caves, Mizithres Rocks, Keri Lighthouse, and Marathonisi. If you’re visiting for the natural wonders rather than the nightlife, this is your area.
Keri Village & Spa by Zante Plaza is an adults-only hotel in Keri with a spa, pool, and shuttle service to Keri Beach – perfect for a restorative, nature-focused trip. The setting is peaceful and the staff get consistently great feedback.
Over in nearby Laganas, Pierros Verde is a stunning boutique 5-star suite hotel with beautifully designed rooms, exceptional service, and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere – one of the best-reviewed properties on the whole island.
🏨 Volimes & Anafonitria – Best for Northwest Coast Access
If you want to be closest to the Navagio Beach viewpoint, Blue Caves, Korakonissi, and the dramatic northwest coast, staying in or near Volimes or Anafonitria is the way to go. Accommodation here is quieter and more villa-style – think private pools, hillside views, and proper peace and quiet.
Emerald Suites near Askos (just east of Volimes) is an exceptional choice – this gorgeous boutique property has private villas with pools and jacuzzis, jaw-dropping views, and some of the most dedicated hosts on the island. It’s particularly popular for honeymoons and special occasions.
Eden Villas Zakynthos in Anafonitria is another fantastic option – beautifully designed stone villas with private pools and incredible sunset views, run by a wonderfully helpful host.
Villa Meralia is a luxurious private villa near Anafonitria with a stunning pool overlooking the hillside – perfect for groups or families wanting total seclusion with access to the northwest coast’s greatest hits.
2. Navagio Beach , AKA Shipwreck Beach
Boat trips to Navagio Beach depart from several ports around the island, including Porto Vromi (the closest, and therefore quickest) and Zakynthos Town. I’d highly recommend booking a small group or private boat tour rather than a large party boat if you want a more intimate experience and better photos. Most trips allow 1–2 hours at the beach.
The beach itself is pebbly rather than sandy, and the water is crystal clear but can have a strong current near the wreck – swim with care. Still, floating in that impossibly blue water with a shipwreck as your backdrop? Pure bucket list material.
3. Potamitis Windmill
One of the most photogenic and overlooked spots in all of Zakynthos – the Potamitis Windmill is a beautifully restored traditional stone windmill perched high on the hillside near the village of Volimes in the northwest. The surrounding landscape of rugged limestone, wild herbs, and sea views makes this a wonderful spot to pause and take it all in, and it’s almost always quiet, even in peak summer.
The windmill dates back centuries and is a reminder of the island’s agricultural heritage. It’s a short walk from the road, and the panoramic views from up here – stretching across the hills to the Ionian Sea – are absolutely gorgeous. Do not miss this hidden gem!
4. Korakonissi Beach (AKA Korakonēsi Beach)
Korakonissi Beach is the kind of place that makes you wonder why it doesn’t have its own Instagram account with a million followers. Located on the northwest coast near the village of Agios Leon, this extraordinary beach sits alongside a distinctive rocky islet – the “Korako” or crow – connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. The water here is a stunning shade of deep teal, and the dramatic rock formations create natural pools and swimming spots that feel completely otherworldly.
The beach is accessible by road (though the last stretch is rough – a 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle helps) and is far less crowded than Navagio. An easier option: park your car up the road and walk down. Bring your own shade and supplies, as facilities are minimal. This is wild Zakynthos at its finest, and I absolutely loved it.
5. Porto Vromi Maries
Porto Vromi is the main jumping-off point for boat trips to Navagio Beach from the northwest coast, and it’s a stunning little harbor in its own right. Nestled between dramatic cliffs on a quiet inlet near the village of Maries, this tiny port has a handful of boat operators, a small café or two, and the most incredibly clear turquoise water lapping against the dock.
Even if you’re not jumping on a boat here, it’s worth visiting Porto Vromi for the scenery alone. The drive down to the harbor winds through beautiful hillside terrain, and the sense of arriving at this tucked-away cove feels genuinely special. It’s also a popular spot for diving and snorkeling if you want to explore the underwater world of the northwest coast.
Tip: try out Aeras Restaurant up the hill from Porto Vromi for incredible views of the landscape and coast below.
6. Hidden Treasure Cave
Most boat tours from Porto Vromi include the Hidden Treasure Cave on their route. The experience of gliding into the cave on a small boat, watching the water change color in the diffused light, is genuinely breathtaking, and probably will be one of the most unique experiences you’ll ever have.
7. Keri Lighthouse & the Ionian Sunset Café
Perched at the southern tip of Zakynthos, the Keri Lighthouse is one of the island’s most dramatic sunset spots – and it comes with a very good story attached. However, the area around the lighthouse is now limited entry: to access the cliff-edge cave view trail, the Mizithres view trail, and other stunning vantage points in this area, you’ll need to buy a drink or food at the Ionian Sunset Café, which manages access to the trails. But upside: you get to watch the sunset with a drink in hand – can’t say I complained about this!
Arrive early to explore: the cave view trail leads to incredible perspectives over the sheer limestone cliffs and the deep blue sea, while the Mizithres view trail gives you a bird’s-eye look at those iconic sea stacks below. And of course stay for sunset – this is genuinely one of the most unforgettable experiences on the whole island.
8. Poseidon’s Profile
9. Keri Caves
The caves vary in size and character: some are enormous caverns where you can float your boat inside and look up at cathedral-like ceilings; others are narrow passages where the water glows an otherworldly blue-green from the light filtering through the rock. The whole experience feels wonderfully primordial – like you’ve discovered somewhere that most of the world has no idea exists.
Tours typically combine the Keri Caves with Mizithres Rocks, Marathonisi (Turtle Island), and snorkeling stops, making for a full and fun day out on the water. This is one of the best things to do in Zakynthos and absolutely bucket list material!
10. Mizithres Rocks
From the sea, the sheer scale of these rocks is genuinely humbling. They rise straight out of the deep blue water with barnacled bases and jagged tops, and the light plays beautifully on the limestone at golden hour. Divers will also love this area for its underwater formations and marine life.
11. Mizithres Beach
Most boat tours stopping at the Mizithres area will drop anchor and allow swimming time in this stunning cove. The water is deep and clear, perfect for snorkeling, and on a calm day the reflections off the surrounding limestone cliffs are absolutely spectacular. A true hidden gem that you might even have to yourself!
12. Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
The island itself has a gorgeous sandy beach on one side – one of the prettiest on all of Zakynthos – and visiting by boat feels like a real adventure. Swimming in the shallow, crystal-clear water while turtles glide past you is an experience that never gets old, no matter how many times you’ve seen it on Instagram. Please swim respectfully – keep a safe distance from any turtles you encounter and never attempt to touch them.
Marathonisi is included on most Keri area boat tours, making it easy to combine with the caves and Mizithres Rocks. NOTE: with that said, I actually would NOT recommend a dedicated Turtle Island tour – you can easily get to Marathonisi by water taxi instead. I had looked up some of the turtle tours, and it just didn’t sit right with me that there are loud boats coming through all day – I can’t imagine that that is NOT disturbing the turtles. For me personally, it didn’t feel ethical to the wildlife, especially near a protected area, and thus I skipped doing a tour.
What you need to know for the Turtle Island water taxis:
Cost: Approximately €10–€12 per person for a round trip.
Duration: About 15 minutes to reach the island.
Restrictions: Marathonisi is a protected area (Zone B); umbrellas are not allowed, and some boats cannot dock directly on the sand.
Departure points: Agios Sostis, Laganas, and Porto Koukla.
13. Blue Caves
The Blue Caves are accessible by small boat from Cape Skinari – there’s a small port there with several local operators offering tours. The boats are low and flat so they can slide right inside the caves, and the moment you enter and the world turns blue around you is one of those travel moments that simply defies description. Go in the morning when the sun angle is optimal for the famous blue effect.
14. Filipoi Beach
Filipoi Beach is one of those Zakynthos secrets that feels like it belongs to the lucky few who find it. Located on the remote southwestern coast, this wild and dramatic stretch of coastline is characterized by striking red and orange rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and deep blue water. The beach itself is pebbly rather than sandy, but the raw, untouched beauty of the setting more than makes up for it.
Access is by boat from Keri Port or by a steep coastal track – either way, the journey is part of the adventure. Facilities here are nonexistent, so come prepared with food, water, and plenty of sunscreen. In return, you’ll get to enjoy one of the most dramatic and photogenic beaches in Zakynthos.
15. Plakaki Beach & Even More Stunning Beaches
Zakynthos is full of stunning beaches beyond the headline attractions, and some of the most rewarding discoveries come from following a dirt track down to a quiet cove with no name on Google Maps. Plakaki Beach is one of these – a gorgeous, unspoiled stretch on the southern coast with remarkably clear water and very few visitors, even in peak season.
Porto Limnionas Beach on the northwest coast has a completely different character – it’s more like classic European summer vibes with rock platforms for sunbathing, crystal water for swimming, and a lovely beach bar to settle into. It can get busy, but the natural swimming cove carved into the limestone is genuinely beautiful and makes it well worth a stop.
Porto Steniti is a tiny, intimate cove with very limited parking that most visitors drive straight past – which makes it a wonderful find. The water is spectacular, and the peace and quiet here are something special.
Alykes Beach on the north coast is a long, sandy stretch that’s perfect for a kayaking adventure – several operators here offer sea kayak rentals and guided tours along the coastline, which is a wonderful way to explore the island from a different perspective.
Porto Vromi (beyond its role as a boat tour departure point) is also excellent for scuba diving – the northwest coast has rich underwater terrain and excellent visibility, and several dive schools operate from the harbor.
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Tips for Traveling to Zakynthos, Greece
Rent a car – full stop. I cannot stress this enough. The island is pretty big and it does take a few hours to get around it. A car rental transforms your trip from a pleasant beach holiday into a proper adventure. Many of the island’s best spots are completely inaccessible by public transport, and having wheels means you can chase sunrise views and beat the crowds.
Book boat tours in advance. The most popular tours – particularly Navagio Beach from Porto Vromi and the Keri Caves combination trip – DO sell out, especially in July and August. Book at least a few days ahead to secure your spot.
Go early or go late. Navagio Beach viewpoint, the Blue Caves, and other headline attractions get genuinely mobbed by midday in summer. Arriving early (before 9am) or late afternoon (after 4pm) dramatically improves the experience.
Respect the sea turtles. Zakynthos is home to one of the most important loggerhead turtle nesting sites in the Mediterranean. If you encounter turtles in the water, keep a distance of at least 15 feet / 5 meters, do not touch them, and never block their path. The turtles are the real stars of Zakynthos – let’s make sure they stick around.
Try the local food! On my first visit to the Greek islands, I genuinely wasn’t aware that they each have local specialities, and Zakynthian cuisine is wonderful! Do not miss local specialties like skordostoumbi (garlic-marinated pork), mandolato (local nougat), and fresh-grilled seafood at any of the island’s family-run tavernas. Eating well is an essential part of the Zakynthos experience.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen. Many of Zakynthos’s beaches are in marine protected areas. Do your bit for the ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen, and taking all your rubbish with you when you leave.
Honestly … skip Laganas. You’ll get a lot of people recommending Laganas, but it is pretty much a party town. It’s known for its nightlife, so if that’s your scene defintiely enjoy it! For me, I wanted to stick to the natural scenery on the island.
Pack motion sickness medication. With all these epic boat tours and so much of the island only accessible by boat, if you suffer from any kind of motion sickness or nausea on boats, I’d definitely recommend bringing Dramamine or something similar.
You can rent your own boat! If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can actually rent a boat to take yourself around instead. It would be a fun way to set your own schedule and explore exactly where YOU want to go – just make sure you are fully capable of driving and (probably even more importantly) parking a boat!
Lean into island time. Like many islands, Zakynthos is on Greek time. Which means ferries or boat tours might be late, and schedules are more “flexible” than expected. No one is in a rush here, so you shouldn’t be either! Enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace (and you’ll get where you need to go in the end!).
Buy water in bulk instead of drinking from the tap. While it’s safe to drink the water in Greece and on the Greek islands, island water can sometimes be salty and thus quite dehydrating. Showering, brushing your teeth, everything else is perfectly fine and safe. You just might not like the taste of the tap water!
There you have it – the very best things to do in Zakynthos, Greece, from the world-famous Navagio Beach to the hidden sea caves, dramatic lighthouses, and wild swimming coves that most visitors never find. This island absolutely stole my heart, and I have no doubt it’ll do the same to yours.
If you’ve been to Zakynthos or have questions about planning your trip, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! And if this guide has inspired you to book that trip, please share it with a friend who needs to know about this incredible Greek island gem.
Plan Your Zakynthos Trip
🏠️ Accommodation: Use Booking.com for flexible cancellation options and best hotel options.
🚗Car Rental: Book through Discovercars.com for the best rates.
🎫 Activities: Book Navagio tours and Keri Cave tours through GetYourGuide or directly with local operators at Porto Vromi and Keri Port. Always book early so they don’t sell out – I love using GetYourGuide for their 24-hour free cancellation policy.
🌍 Travel Insurance: do not skip travel insurance for Zakynthos with all these adventure activities! I always recommend World Nomads for adventure travelers, and SafetyWing is my go-to for long-term travel and offers excellent coverage at a great price.
📱 eSIM: Always stay connected by using an eSIM! You’ll have access to data WITHOUT having to spend a ton on your at-home plan, change your number, or buy a physical sim. My favorites are Airalo for affordable plans (save with my code “REBECCA3” for $3 off your first eSIM) and Holafly for unlimited data (use my code “ROAMFREEREBECCA” to save 5% on any plan!).
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I’m a travel & outdoors photographer, blogger, and content greator living in the US but you can find me adventuring around the globe! On this blog I share tips to help you improve your photography, inspiration and advice to explore the outdoors, destination guides, travel tips, and more to plan your own adventures!
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