Explore Zakynthos, the Flower of the Ionian Islands
Explore Zakynthos, one of the most popular destinations in Greece. The Venetians called Zakynthos "the Flower of the East", rightly so. The gem of the Ionian Sea is famous for its natural beauty and rich culture. Undoubtedly, the island's showstopper is the well-known Shipwreck beach. Additionally, the National Marine Park of Laganas bay consists of numerous beaches and habitats of the loggerhead Mediterranean turtle (Caretta-Caretta). Would Caretta-Caretta prefer this island to lay her eggs if it wasn't for the crystal clear waters and long sandy beaches?
Rent a car to explore Zakynthos and make the most of what the island has to offer without the restriction of public transport or the costs of hiring a taxi. Instead, allow yourself to spend as much time as you want at a remote beach and enjoy the colourful sunset of western Greece. Although most beaches are organised, pack an umbrella in your car, just in case you want to lay your towel a bit further away.
Zakynthos is an island with endless sightseeing options you can visit by car or boat. Here are our 5 favourite places you can drive to:
Explore Zakynthos town, 5 km north of the airport
After a devastating earthquake in 1953, the town (Chora) was rebuilt in the traditional Venetian style. You will find anything you need here, from accommodation and cafes to shops and tourist information. Go for an evening walk around the historical square of Agios Markos (San Marco square). There, in 1797 people rebelled against the island's nobles and burnt the "Libro d' Oro" (the legal directory of nobles in the Republic of Venice). Nearby you will find the town's central square (Dionysios Solomos), with Venetian-style public buildings and museums. In the centre of the square looms the statue of Dionysios Solomos. He was the Zakynthian poet who wrote the "Hymn to Liberty" poem to honour the Greeks' struggle for independence after centuries of Ottoman rule. The first two verses of the poem became the National Anthem of Greece.
Zakynthos town was rebuilt in the traditional Venetian style after the earthquake of 1953. Image by KatarzynaTyl, licensed.
Tsilivi resort, 6 km west of Zakynthos town
Tsilivi resort and its long sandy beach attract many visitors. During the day, enjoy the fully organised beach with water sports facilities. Later, you can choose from various restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs that stay open until late at night.
The sandy beach of Tsilivi, image by Live Zakynthos, licensed.
Gerakas, the loggerhead turtle nesting beach, 18 km south of Zakynthos town
Known as a loggerhead turtle nesting beach, Gerakas also attracts many people who want to enjoy the clear waters and the fine sand. In Gerakas bay, you will find umbrellas and sunbeds only until sunset. Then, they all get stacked back during the night to leave room for the nesting turtles. In the morning, volunteers look for fresh tracks and new nests and place protective signs to ensure the hatchlings are safe.
The loggerhead sea turtle swims close to the nesting beaches of Zakynthos. Image by Tony Hisgett, licensed.
Makris Gialos, 33 km northwest of Zakynthos town
Makris Gialos is a semi-organised pebble beach with turquoise waters, sunbaked cliffs and caves. The setting and the wild beauty of this place make it perfect for snorkelling. From here, you can take a boat tour to the nearby caves and the famous Shipwreck beach.
Porto Limnionas, 16 km southeast of Zakynthos town
Zakynthos is famous for its sandy beaches. However, if you decide to explore the island a bit more and discover a more wild part, the inlet of Porto Limnionas is a place you shouldn't miss visiting. It is worth a day trip to experience a different view of the island. However, you will need a car to get there as public transport doesn't reach that part. Although Porto Limnionas is completely isolated, a restaurant on the top of the bay serves some delicious local specialities. To be safe, try to book a table before your visit, especially during the high season.
The blue waters of Porto Limnionas, on the northern coast of Zakynthos. Image by Heather Cowper, licensed.
Shipwreck Beach only accessible by boat
Last is the famous Shipwreck beach (Navagio in Greek). This impressive cove with dreamy turquoise waters took its name in the early 1980s after a cargo ship hit the rocks and ended up on the shore. Although you can drive there and see the shipwreck from above, you can access the beach only by boat. Take a boat from Porto Vromi or Saint Nikolas harbour in Volimes. You can also see the majestic blue caves along the rocky coast by choosing a boat for your transport.
During the summer season, you can find yourself on the shipwreck beach under the hot summer sun with no shade and surrounded by people and boats that leave a smell of engine oil. Therefore, we advise you to go early in the morning and maybe take your umbrella with you!
The loggerhead turtle nesting beach of Gerakas. Image by ivabalk, licenced.
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Featured image by Greg Montani, licensed.