City of Zakynthos
The city is best explored on foot. Wander through its cobblestone streets and squares, taking time to discover local arts and products at every corner. From bakeries and cafés, local markets, patisseries, clothing and jewelry boutiques, to charming neighborhoods, museums, and hidden cultural monuments (such as the English Cemetery), the City of Zakynthos has it all.
Porto Limnionas
About 25 km from the city and just outside Agios Leon, on the western side of the island, lies Limnionas — a beautiful, pristine lagoon with clear, emerald waters. There is no organized beach, but plenty of flat rocks for sunbathing. The best experience is diving into the icy waters of the bay, resulting from a combination of sea currents and underwater springs.
Monastery of Anfonitria
Approximately 25 km from Zakynthos, near the village of Volimes, is the small village of Anfonitria, home to a beautiful 15th-century Byzantine monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The island’s patron saint, Saint Dionysios, spent the last years of his life as a monk in this monastery.
Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
This small islet lies in the Bay of Laganas and is one of the nesting sites of the sea turtle Caretta caretta. Its turtle-like shape has inspired various myths over the years, one of which claims it was sculpted by the ancients in honor of this visitor. Access to the island is regulated by the National Marine Park to protect the nesting areas.
Strada Marina
Starting from Zakynthos Port, heading toward Argassi, next to the Church and bell tower of Saint Dionysios, enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront, known as Strada Marina. Admire picturesque scenes of fishermen and sailboats, local shops, cafés, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Bochali
Just 2 km from the City of Zakynthos, atop a hill, lies Bochali. With views over the harbor, neighborhoods, and streets of the city (as well as Argassi to the right), you can enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of the city, port, and endless blue sea. Visit Bochali in the morning for a relaxing breakfast and coffee, or in the evening for dinner under the moonlight or cocktails at the area’s beautiful lounge bars and cafés.
Sunset at Schiza
Visit the small, picturesque village of Kampi on the western side of the island and follow the steep path to the top of the hill, where a large memorial cross stands in honor of those killed during the Greek Civil War (literally thrown off the cliff to their death). Along the way, you will encounter a Mycenaean cemetery with authentic tombs from the period.
Shipwreck & Blue Caves
Two of the island’s most famous destinations, not only in Zakynthos but in all of Greece, are accessible only by sea. The famous Shipwreck, the most photographed beach in the country, is located on the island’s western coast, beneath the picturesque mountain village of Volimes. In 1983, an illegal ship carrying cigarettes ran aground on the shore of Saint George Bay, as it was then called.