Zakynthos island is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea, part of the Ionian archipelago located west of the Peloponnese and south of Corfu on the west coast.
Despite its size (the length of the island is 40 km, width is 20 km), the area of \u200b\u200bthe island is about 400 km2, the relief of the island is very diverse. On the east coast, beautiful sandy beaches hidden in numerous bays attract many tourists, while the western part is wilder, more mountainous, with many rocks and mountains (they are not very high, the highest peak is only about 750 m).
The island is home to about 40 thousand inhabitants and is known to tourists for its beautiful sandy beaches, hidden coves and the most famous nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. The loggerhead sea turtles are the symbol of Zakynthos and have been laying their eggs on the beaches in the southern part of the island for hundreds of years and are currently under threat of extinction. They are under the protection of the state, therefore, there are some restrictions on the beaches at certain times (for example, on the Gerakas beach, a ban on swimming at night) to help protect them. Zakynthos island together with the whole family!
Zakynthos Island Map
When is the best time to go to rest on the island of Zakynthos?
The best time to travel to Zakynthos is between June and mid September. The warmest time is July and August, the sea water is very warm. However, it is best to visit Zakynthos in May, June and September, avoiding the mercilessly scorching sun.
However, many tourists come to the island not only in summer, but also on Christmas, Easter and other holidays. There is a large selection of accommodations available throughout the city throughout the year. You can choose from a wide range of hotels of all categories, as well as studio apartments and private rooms, which are suitable for families on a low budget. 
The capital of the island of Zakynthos is the city of Zakynthos
City Zakynthos (Zakynthos) - capital and largest city on the island, it is located on the east coast and is a center of culture and trade, with about 11-12 thousand inhabitants; its port is the largest on the island. The city was completely destroyed by a strong earthquake, in 1953, but it was soon rebuilt and today visitors can see a city with two faces: on the one hand, an old medieval city, with impressive buildings and monuments, on the other side, a modern, rapidly developing city, with all the amenities , and the services of a modern city.
Dionysius Solomos Square
The center of the city is the square of Dionysius Solomos, whose name comes from the name of the author of the words of the Greek anthem, who was born in the city of Zakynthos. She is surrounded by trees and impressive buildings with arched windows, columns and arches. These buildings house the Town Hall, the National Bank, the Byzantine Museum, the National Library, and various administrative buildings. Here you can see a bust of the Italian poet Niccolò Hugo Foscolo and a statue of the Greek national poet Dionysius Solomos.
Byzantine Museum
The Byzantine Museum was opened in 1960 and displays local utensils and tools, as well as frescoes, sculptures and statues from the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods, as well as a collection of 17th century icons.
In 1953, a powerful earthquake struck the island, which destroyed many monuments; there is a model in the museum that allows you to see what the city looked like before the beginning of 1953. 
At the edge of the square you will find the old 17th century St. Nicholas Church, a Renaissance church with a Byzantine bell tower! This is the only Venetian building that was saved from the fire that broke out after the 1953 earthquake! 
If you go west along the sidewalk from Dionysius Solomos Square, then at 150 meters you will see St. Mark's Square.
This is a historical square, its history is connected with the struggle of the island for independence. On July 30, 1797, the population of the island gathered here and overthrew the Venetian rule. Here you can visit the Dionysius Solomos Museum, which houses the remains of the national poet of Greece and other famous natives of the island.
It is open every day from 9.00 to 14.00
The museum was established in 1959 in a recently renovated building, and opened to the public in 1966, under the leadership of a private association of local residents. On the ground floor of the house there is a collection of manuscripts by Solomos and other poets, authors and performers; there is also an interesting and rich collection of portraits of famous people of the island. You will also see a significant library and furniture from the period of British rule on the island, as well as a large collection of photographs.
The museum also has an interesting collection of paintings from the 18th -19th centuries, sculpture, ceramics, metal and wood carvings.
Finally, the museum has an interesting electronic library where you will find a very rich bibliography on local history. 
The so-called Rouga (market) street begins on the southwest side of Piazza San Marco. This is the largest shopping street in the city. On it you can walk and buy food or souvenirs. You can relax for a while in the many cafes on both sides of the street. 
Church of St. Dionysius
It is a symbol of Zakynthos and rises majestically over the southern side of the harbor! It is one of only three buildings in the city that was not destroyed by the 1953 earthquake. It was built in 1925. AT churches can admireexquisite frescoes, as well as kneel before the relic of the patron saint of the island Dionysius (1547-1622), which is kept here. 
150 m north-west of the monastery of St. Dionysius stands church of the Virgin Mary Faneromeni, built in 1633. Destroyed by the 1953 earthquake, it was one of the most beautiful churches in Greece. It has been restored to its original appearance. 
July. By oneself
Greece, Zakynthos island
I am a lover of traveling alone. Where have I not been already in my life! But Greece is just a wonderful country! So at the end of July this year, I returned from a trip to some of the colorful islands of this great country. It is really very hot there at this time of the year, but that is why it is Greece, where July is considered the hottest month.
I would also like to stay on the island of Zakynthos (Zakynthos, in Greek). From mainland Greece I got there by ferry. Though long, but I was interested. The island is mountainous, sparsely populated and very green.
But the most famous sight of Zakynthos is the ancient and rare sea turtles. There they are raised into a kind of cult. It is said that during the egg-laying season, air flights even stop over the island.
There are also many different caves on the island, that's where I took my heart out, having studied the largest and most colorful.
I didn’t go around the capital of the island, somehow the city noise didn’t seduce me when there was such beautiful nature around.
In general, I really liked Zakynthos, after which I went to explore other no less interesting Greek islands.
Olesya and Vladimir
June. With family
Greece, Zakynthos island
How long and tiring we were waiting for our vacation ... We had planned in advance that we would go out with my wife on the same day and would definitely go to rest in warm countries. And so it happened, on June 3 we went on a tour to rest in the fabulous Greek island of Zakynthos. We read and watched a lot about him, and when we arrived there, we were simply stunned by his beauty. The island consists entirely of tall, covered with forest, there is simply the purest air, the very thing for our child and my sick bronchi.
But what a magnificent sea there is! We have never been to the Ionian Sea before and now we believe that it is the cleanest and most affectionate.
As for the local service personnel, I completely agree with my acquaintances that the Greeks are very lazy and sluggish, but they are very pleasant and polite people. They are always genuinely happy and do not hesitate to show their emotions.
We really liked the rest! We want to go there again.
Zakynthos island stands out from other islands in Greece due to its natural beauty and unique underwater world. Cliffs and mountains in the west, densely forested hills and plains, olive groves, 123 km of endless sandy white beaches, clear blue sea, secluded bays and bays, underwater caves and wrecks - an excellent place for recreation and water activities.
The island of Zakynthos and 2 small islands nearby have formed a marine nature reserve since 1999. This is a natural habitat dolphins, sea birds, rare species of sea seals - monks (Monachus), snails and turtles caretta caretta, porcupines, iguanas, etc.
Map of the island of Zakynthos with cities and resorts.
Zakynthos island Is one of the 7 islands of Greece in the Ionian Sea. It is conveniently located 18 km from the coast of the Peloponnese and 15 km from about. Kefalonia. Direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg in the summer season from May to mid-October, as well as domestic flights (from Athens, Argostoli, Corfu) and regular ferry services make about. Zakynthos is affordable and attractive to tourists.
Long sandy beaches, resort towns, villages and tourist complexes occupy mainly the northeastern and southeastern parts of the island. It should be noted that the island does not experience a shortage of hotels. Here is a wide range of developed tourist infrastructure of hotels of various categories: from 2 * and above, to specialized spa hotels.
Resorts and cities of Zakynthos.
Capital of Zakynthos Island - zakynthos city... It is a modern city, rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake. Zakynthos is the center of the island's cultural life, where music festivals and cultural programs are constantly held. Attractions of Zakynthos: Strata Marina embankment; St. Mark's Square; Temple of St. Dionysius; St. Nicholas Church; Museum of Byzantine Art; Maritime Museum.
To the east of the capital, just 4 km, there is resort Agrassi - a developed tourism center with nightlife, hotels, shops, beaches, water activities, restaurants and clubs.
6 km west of Zakynthos lies another dynamic tsilivi town... It is a beautiful resort with Blue Flag sandy beaches, all water activities, attractions, olive groves and gardens in the surrounding area.
A little further west (18 km from the capital) is alikanas resort town... It is the most developed resort in terms of water sports. All young people usually strive just here for entertainment, extreme and active recreation.
The most famous resorts of the island are located in the bay Laganas.This is a resort Laganas and Kalamaki village, which is 5-9 km from the capital of the island. Laganas Bay beaches stretched for 9 km. They partly belong to the National Marine Park: here the Caretta Caretta turtles breed (at night, access to the beach for tourists is closed).
Vasilikos peninsulabeautiful sandy beaches combined with small pebbles and a convenient entry into the clear sea. The natural beauty of these places gives you peace and tranquility, however, there is also plenty to do for active tourists. Some beaches are part of the National Marine Park-Reserve and are periodically or partially closed. Vasilikos is represented by beaches: Ionion, Gerakas (Gerakas), Porto Romo (Porto Romo), Porto Zoro (Porto Zoro), Banana (Banana), Daphne (Dafni), Mavrantzi, Sekania and Agios Nikolaos (Agios Nikolaos).
How much does a vacation on the islands of Greece cost?
Tours to the island of Zakynthos in 2019 from Moscow and St. Petersburg
Tours to the island of Zakynthos in Greece in the summer of 2019 are offered by the best tour operators in the Greek direction: Mouzenidis Travel (Mouzenidis Travel), Panteon (Pantheon), TUI. Choose the best package tour among the offers from all tour operators to the island of Zakynthos with a direct flight from Moscow or St. Petersburg.
Tours to the island of Zakynthos in 2019 are compiled taking into account the departure:
from Moscow on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 25 to October 5.
from St. Petersburg on Thursdays from May 30 to September 26.
The cost of living in hotels on about. Zakynthos
Landmarks of the island of Zakynthos in Greece.
The underwater world around Zakynthos is very beautiful. The western part of the Island and the northern one in the area of \u200b\u200bCape Skinari are especially rich in natural attractions.
Blue Caves about. Zakynthos
It's worth noting here: keri caves, the largest Azure Cave Kianone, blue Caves.
Three stone arches majestically rise above the emerald sea: sailing between them is breathtaking! Perhaps these are the most memorable views, which can compete in beauty only with views Navagio bays.
Bay of Navagio about. Zakynthos Greece
One of the most popular attractions in Zakynthos - this is Navagio baysurrounded by sheer cliffs covered with greenery with beautiful white sandy beach (Navagio Beach) and a shipwrecked ship in 1967. From the observation deck at the top of the cliff, there is a stunning view, which deservedly ranks among the 10 most beautiful places on earth. Navagio Bay is located on the western side of the island of Zakynthos. You can get to this heavenly secluded place only from the sea.
Zakynthos Island is a great place for diving:
- Butterfly Cave - Papelon;
- Triumphal Arch;
- Blue Caves;
- Keri Caves;
- Watching the Caretta Caretta turtles, which swim and lay their eggs every year on the beaches of Laganas and Gerakas. In mid-August, you can see how little turtles hatch from their eggs and rush into the sea.
Attractions of the island of Zakynthos:
- Rich underwater world;
- Caves, bays and grottoes on the island of Zakynthos;
- Askos Park;
- Water Village in Sarakinado;
- Horseback riding in Laganas;
- Cycling, walking, sea excursions;
- National Marine Park (turtles caretta caretta);
- Turtle Island - Marathonissi... Tours depart from the city of Keri.
- Orchid garden in the village of Agios Nikolaos;
- The Maritime Museum and Observatory in the Tsilivi resort;
- The capital of the island is the city of Zakynthos;
- Ancient churches and ruins of a medieval fortress in the resort of Agrassi;
- The village of Kampi, Mycenaean burials;
- Kerion village with preserved mansions in the Venetian style.
- Excursion to the island Kefalonia with a visit drogarati Cave.
Come to the island of Zakynthos and you will see the majestic and serene beauty of the land!
The island of Zakynthos is a truly fabulous place with unspoiled nature and magnificent views. The island is located in the Ionian Sea and belongs to Greece. Is it worth going here on vacation, what to do on the island and what are the reviews about Zakynthos (Greece) - read the article.
A bit of the history of the island
Zakynthos was the name of the son of the king of Phrygia Dardanus. It was in his honor that this heavenly place was named. According to Greek myths, the island was conquered by the grandfather of the famous Odysseus. Since during the long period of the Greco-Roman wars, Zakynthos (Greece) kept a neutral side, it was given autonomy. At the end of the 12th century, this land was conquered by the Venetians, who really liked the area. Only in 1797 was their dominance interrupted by the French.
Great Britain has ruled here since 1813. Several decades later, the island was ceded to Greece. Glorified by the poets born on the island, Zakynthos passed from hand to hand, suffered from invasions of pirates and earthquakes, but did not lose its primeval beauty. Reviews about the island of Zakynthos in Greece converge on one thing: the magical atmosphere of the place envelops travelers from the first second of their stay and never lets go.
What's the weather like on the island?
The sun shines in Zakynthos most of the year, so tourists come here at any time. It is hot and dry here in summer, but the breeze from the sea gives tourists comfort. In July, the thermometer rises to +32 ° С. In the winter months, the daytime temperature does not drop below +14 ° C, this weather is convenient for sightseeing holidays. Rains are rare here.
How to get to the wonderful Ionian Island? In the high season from May to October, charters fly here from Moscow and St. Petersburg. At other times, they fly to Greece (Zakynthos) with a transfer in the country's capital. From Athens, you can also take a train or bus to Kilini and then change to a ferry.
What can you see in Zakynthos?
Most of the local attractions are classified as natural, but there are also interesting architectural buildings. This includes the temple of Dionysius, built at the beginning of the 20th century. It was built with such care that it survived the 1953 earthquake, when most of the buildings were destroyed.
The three-nave temple was built in the Venetian style. Next to it is a 40-meter bell tower with an observation deck. The relics of St. Dionysius are kept in the temple, to which you can venerate.
The Church of Nikolai Mola is located on Solomu Square. This is the oldest building in the place, built in 1561. It was badly damaged during the earthquake, but the restoration did not radically change its appearance.
Another ancient attraction of Zakynthos (Greece) is the monastery of Our Lady of Anafonitria, which is currently inactive, but allows tourists to enter its walls. The church is interesting for its atypical appearance for Zakynthos: three-aisled basilicas and a wooden roof. Inside is a relic - an icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, saved from the Turks.
Not far from the monastery is the village of Anafonitria, people come here to see the real, not tourist Zakynthos (Greece).
Zakynthos Marine Reserve
The National Marine Park on the island was opened in 1999 and is the only park of its kind in all of Greece. The main purpose of the existence of the reserve is to protect the beaches on which the caretta turtle lays its eggs. The museum at the park sets the task of providing environmental information to visitors.
The territory of the reserve includes a large number of coastal lands with a developed ecosystem, even populations of Mediterranean seals live here.
As the turtles that lay their eggs love peace and solitude, there are strict rules for tourists in the park. Staying here after sunset and lighted lanterns and bonfires are prohibited. It is strictly forbidden to litter and enter the beach by car or bicycle. It is forbidden to make noise in the reserve, play with a ball or rackets.
If you built sand castles on the beach, when leaving, destroy them, as they can become an obstacle for turtles.
The beaches and coves of the island
The main treasure of Zakynthos (Greece) is its wonderful beaches. The coastline stretches for 123 kilometers. The most visited beach on the island is called Shipwreck Beach or Navagio Cove. On the soft white sand, which tourists love so much, is the smugglers' ship, which was thrown here during a storm. You can get to the beach only from the sea; it is best to rent a boat for this.
Gerakas Beach is located in the southern part of Zakynthos. It is part of the marine reserve, which means that you can see the Caretta turtle here. The warm and magnificent views attract many travelers here.
The beaches of the Tsivili resort are surrounded by vineyards and olive orchards. Also, a large number of bars, clubs and shops are concentrated here.
There are no truly picturesque and wonderful beaches within the city limits. Therefore, tourists go to the places described above. But if you wish, you can also visit the city beach. It is crowded here, and the coating is sandy and pebble.
What museums to visit on the island?
Of the sights of the Ionian Island, museums can also be distinguished. The most interesting of them is the Byzantine Museum. Its exposition makes it possible to judge the development of Christian culture in Zakynthos. The audience is presented with a large collection of icons and frescoes, sculptures and paintings. The museum is especially proud of its 16th century carved iconostases. You can find a building in the capital of the island on Solomos Square.
The Straw and Kalvu Museum is located in St. Mark's Square. It is interesting for the manuscripts of the poets who lived here and their portraits. The ground floor even contains the remains of the creators whose names the museum is named after.
If you come to the village of Pigadakya, you can get acquainted with the traditional life of the settlement in Zakynthos and agriculture. The agricultural museum contains furniture, utensils, agricultural equipment. Some of the exhibits date back to the 16th century.
What excursions to go from Zakynthos?
No matter how beautiful the island of Zakynthos in Greece is (photo in the article), some tourists want to see as much as possible. For such travelers, trips from the island are organized. Read about the best of them now.
Taking a comfortable ferry in the port of Zakynthos, you can find yourself in the port of Kilini. From here it is easy to get to Ancient Olympia - it was here that the legendary ancient Olympic Games were held. Here you can see the Temple of Zeus, where one of the wonders of the world (the statue of Golden Zeus) used to be.
The ferry in Agios Nikolaos will take the tourist to Kefalonia. This largest of the Ionian Islands is famous for its unique caves, comfortable beaches and the Enos mountain range with interesting flora and fauna.
Active tourists looking to accommodate as much as possible on their vacation can organize a trip to Athens. It will take longer, but it will no doubt be interesting. It is better to set aside a few days for a trip to Athens and go there as part of a Russian-speaking group.
Local cuisine: what will surprise you?
The cuisine in Zakynthos, as in all Ionian islands, is Mediterranean. From this it follows that no local dish is complete without olive oil. In Zakynthos it is very fragrant, because there are so many olive groves around! Be sure to bring home a bottle of Mediterranean oil.
They also use a lot of tomatoes, garlic, aromatic herbs and lemons in the dishes. Try the local traditional dish sarca, beef cooked with tomatoes, garlic and sheep's cheese. Skordostubi contains tomatoes, eggplants and seasoned with olive oil and garlic. Be sure to order local bread with your meals, it is very tasty.
They also love sweets on the island. The most popular of these is mandalato, a mixture of eggs, almonds and honey. Pastels made from honey, sesame and almond are also worth trying. You can buy Mizithra cheese (salted or unleavened) with you. It is worth eating with honey or sugar.
Popular hotels in Zakynthos (Greece)
There are a lot of hotels on the island, but you should think about booking in advance just in case. Below we will talk about the popular hotels in Zakynthos.
- Palatino Hotel is located in Zakynthos Town, near the center. Elegant rooms with sea or mountain views, a bar, a restaurant at guests' service. According to tourists' reviews, the hotel is amazing. Breakfasts are plentiful (for a fee, you can take lunches and dinners), and the staff is polite.
- The Diana Hotel has a gym, sauna and rooftop pool. Reviews from travelers to Zakynthos (Greece) about this hotel stay at "Very good".
- The Plaza Hotel has a convenient location, directly opposite Agia Triada Beach. This pleases the tourists staying here, because you just have to cross the road and you are on the beach! Tourists rate it "Amazing".
Whichever hotel you choose, your vacation in Zakynthos will be great. This heavenly place is simply created for a serene pastime and bliss.
Zakynthos or Zakynthos is a fabulous dream island, praised by poets for thousands of years. Untouched beauty of nature, picturesque views, a variety of rich and rich colors, kilometers of golden beaches - truly a "luxurious flower of the Mediterranean". The aroma of coniferous forests, lush flowering plants, citrus fruits and grapes is felt throughout the island. Do you want to be in a fairy tale? Welcome to Zakynthos!
According to ancient legends, the great Greek gods - Artemis and Apollo were enchanted by the incredible beauty of the island. This is not surprising, because the magical atmosphere of the island envelops travelers from the first seconds of arrival and does not let go until the very departure. Zakynthos was mentioned in the works of Homer as "drowning in emerald forests". The inhabitants of the island in ancient times treated Apollo with special reverence and were famous among other Greeks for their love of music and art. The heyday of the culture of Zakynthos fell on the era of Venetian rule.
The island is of particular value to the Greeks: it is not only an unusually beautiful place, but also the birthplace of the greatest Dionysius Solomos, the poet and author of the "Hymn to Freedom". The main square of the island, named after Dionysius, has a monument to remind visitors of his talent.
Did you know that there is a marine reserve with the rarest species of turtles in Zakynthos?
Picturesque coves fringed with golden cliffs and bright blue waves - Zakynthos landscapes are found on postcards all over the earth. Especially famous is the photograph of Navayo Bay from the wreck of the ship. The island is so rich in picturesque panoramas that from any, even the most secret corner, an unforgettable and fantastic view of the cliffs, sea, golden coasts or bright green vegetation opens up.
The local landscape consists of two rows of mountain ranges, between which an emerald valley stretches. Due to the peculiarity of the soil, there are many artesian springs on the island. The ancient island of fabulous beauty was repeatedly glorified by Greek and Venetian poets, and the best artists tried to transfer at least a part of its splendor to the canvas. Mighty pines, luxurious greenery, golden dunes, outlandish mountain ranges, vineyards, cozy settlements with narrow streets, orange groves - Zakynthos has been a source of inspiration for creative people for hundreds of years.
Did you know that the only natural park in Greece “Askos” is located on the island, which has gathered on its territory unique species of animals and plants from all over the world?
Climate
The "Green Island" is warmed by the hot rays of the sun for most of the year. The weather in Zakynthos is ideal for an unforgettable vacation in any month. Summer days are dry and hot here, but the sea breeze and azure waves make travelers feel comfortable even under the scorching sun. The climate is similar to that of other Greek islands. Precipitation is rare here, with the exception of rain during the warm winter months. In winter, there is almost no frost or snow. Most tourists come to the island from May to October.
Attractions and entertainment
The island's attractions are mainly represented by picturesque beaches, grottoes, lush greenery and incredible panoramic views. Locals carefully guard the natural treasures that are spread throughout the island. Unfortunately, most of the historical monuments have not survived to this day, but the perfection of nature in Zakynthos has remained unchanged. In the northern part of the island, you can experience a real natural wonder by visiting the Blue Caves. Countless grottoes, stone arches towering over the sea foam, and mesmerizing blue water ... The most famous cave is located at Cape Skinari. You can only get into the mysterious grottoes by swimming.
Did you know that the water in the snow-white grottoes contains a large amount of calcium and minerals? Due to this, it has a beneficial effect on the skin, and the depth of the medicinal waters in the caves is about four meters!
A kilometer from the port of Agios Nikolaos, there is a fantastic beauty of the Askos stone reserve. On the territory of the reserve you can see the rarest species of animals and plants from all over the planet. Impressive stone structures, water reservoirs and wood compositions harmoniously merge in a single dance with the unspoiled grandeur of the island's natural resources. Local museums are also required, the most popular of them are:
- Museum of Byzantine Art
- Museum of famous Greek poets Dionysius and Andreas Solomos
- House-museum of the family of Alexander Roma
On the territory of the city of Argasi, you can find a famous ancient bridge, one part of which is hidden under water, and the other in the sand. Another pride of the island is the Byzantine churches:
- Ancient temple of St. Dionysius
- Medieval church of St. Nicholas
- Church of Saint Mavra in the small village of Maherado
- Convent of the Virgin of Eleftterotria in the small village of Lagopodo
- The white stone church of Our Lady of Skopietissa (built on the site of the ancient temple of Artemis)
Church of St. Dionysius 
Beaches, bays, resorts
Walk along the incredibly beautiful coasts, breathe in the scent of conifers and outlandish herbs with a taste of salt water, and you will feel how time flows slowly and smoothly in Zakynthos. This magical island gives you the opportunity to experience the charm and splendor of unspoiled nature. The main attraction of the island are countless and indescribably beautiful beaches.
The most famous beach on the island is Shipwreck Beach or Navagio Cove. Here, on the white sand, is a smugglers' ship, washed ashore during a violent storm. The most fantastic beach in the world is only accessible from the sea. Crystal clear blue water and towering cliffs with an emerald mantle - the views on the beach are mesmerizing and striking in their beauty. The most convenient way to get to the beach is by boat from the port of Volimes (Porto Vromi).
Another beach striking in its splendor is Gerakas. Located in the southern part of the peninsula, the impeccable and tranquil Gerakas Beach enchants with rich colors and warm turquoise water. Gerakas is popular not only among tourists, but also among a rare species of sea turtles - Caretta-caretta, which lay their eggs in the sand. That is why the beach is one of the components of the National Marine Park. The inhabitants of the island strictly protect the peace of the turtles: any kind of water sports is prohibited on Gerakas.
Shipwreck Beach (Navagio)
Laganas is a lively and very popular resort on the island. The beach is 5 km long, and the soft golden sand of Laganas is another favorite spot for the Caretta caretta turtles. Organized boat trips provide an opportunity to see these outlandish and noble inhabitants of Zakynthos. Water sports are limited here, as is Gerakas Beach. Vacationers can always visit cozy beach restaurants, small cafes or noisy bars. All possible amenities and entertainment can be found just a short walk from the hotel.
Quite an interesting vacation spot is the Ksigia beach, located twenty kilometers from the city of Zakynthos. The popularity of the beach was brought about by an underwater source, thanks to which a characteristic smell is felt in this place. The beach is covered with pebbles. Tsilivi resort is located a few kilometers from Zakif, where tourists will find many nightclubs, bars, taverns, restaurants and all kinds of entertainment. The sandy beaches of Tsilivi are surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Water sports such as windsurfing and water skiing are common here.
Agios Sostis, Laganas
Cuisine and restaurants - olive oil and garlic
The local cuisine, like all the cuisine of the Ionian Islands, is truly Mediterranean. The most important ingredient in any dish is olive oil, which is especially tasty in Zakynthos due to the large number of olive groves. Tomatoes, lemons, garlic and aromatic herbs are used in large quantities. The “national” dish of the island is “Sartsa” - beef with tomatoes, garlic and a special sheep cheese “ladotiri”. Another common dish in these places is Skordostubi, which includes eggplants, tomatoes and, of course, olive oil with garlic.
Another local cheese, which can be salted or unleavened, is Mizithra. There is "mizithru" taken with honey or sugar. Homemade bread and sweets are popular on the island. For example, "mandolato" is a sweetness made from eggs, almonds and honey, or "pastels" is a sweetness made from sesame seeds, honey and almonds.
Museums
The Straw and Kalvu Museum is located in St. Mark's Square. On the ground floor, there are the remains of the national poets Dionysios Solomu and Andrea Kalvu. On the second floor are the rooms of Solomu, Roma and Coliva with their important manuscripts and a rich collection of their portraits. Here you will also find an ancient library, various archaeological finds and rich photographic material. The building was renovated in 1957 and has been open to visitors since 1967. The new museum is located in Solomu Square and is rich in works of the Byzantine era.
Caretta caretta
It is a species of sea turtle that lives on the shores of Zakynthos and every year from June to August, the Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead - loggerhead turtle) lays its eggs here at night. After 55 days, new generations of this rare species are born and find their way to the sea. However, only 1-2 out of 1000 turtles survive. Therefore, it is very important to protect their burrows. For this, a community for the protection of sea turtles was created, which annually sends volunteers here to protect them 24 hours a day.
Turtle Careta Careta
How to get there
You can get to the "green island" in different ways, each of them is convenient in its own way.
- Kefallonia and Killena Ferries
- A ferry service connects the island with Italy.
- You can also get to the "dream island" by air: there is an airport in Zakynthos. Flights to Zakynthos are regularly operated from Athens or Corfu. In the season of low tourist activity, a flight can cost from 50 euros.
- You can also get to the island by regular bus (by ferry), which departs several times a day from Athens and takes about 6 hours to travel.
The port of Zakynthos is a useful reference.
