Many people know about the famous shipwreck beach in Greece, which is on the cover of every Zante article. But what about the other attractions? They are indeed worth a visit. We have pointed out a few for you in this “Top attractions of Zakynthos” article.
Shipwreck – The first top attraction of Zakynthos
One thing is sure. Namely, Shipwreck Beach, or Navajo as they call it, is also genuinely breathtaking. It is accessible only by boat. What is excellent is that boat trips are cheap. Yes, you will have to share them with many tourists. But by the end of the day, it will be worth every cent, and you will feel why this beach has been named the most beautiful Greek beach hundreds of times.
We still remember the first time we were there. We traveled across the island and then went to a small balcony with a spectacular beach view. We couldn’t believe our eyes. The colors were captivating—the milky blue sea with white rocks in the background. Quite frankly, photographs don’t do justice. It is that striking.
Practical tips: We recommend booking an excursion at the local agency for anyone visiting the island. You can save 20% to 30%.
Marathonisi island
The islet of Marathonisi is placed in Laganas Bay. Its perimeter is just about a mile, and it can be reached by boat from Keri Beach and Laganas Bay. More importantly, almost all major boat tours include the island in their itinerary.
Visitors should be cautious when traveling to Marathonisi, as it is a breeding ground for endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtles. In the summer, these turtles go to Marathonisi to breed. That is why visitors do not have the right to explore the island. However, they should only remain within the first 5 meters of a small beach to not interfere with the reproduction of sea turtles.
Kerì’s lighthouse and the Mizithres beach
Crafted by the forces of nature, Mizithres Beach is a recently formed paradise. That’s why there are no tours or activities available. But you can still admire it from the neighboring Keri lighthouse or visit it by renting a boat. However, a word of caution: hiring a boat here is more for experienced sailors because the sea currents here are powerful.
Blue Caves
The Blue Caves are one of the island’s most popular and advertised attractions. Because of this, local agencies frequently organize boat tours (a few a day). Furthermore, they consist of particular geologic formations that give life to a succession of caves along the Northwest coast. They start soon after Agios Nikolaos village and end near Skinari Cape.
Finally, their name comes from the particular colors of the water there. You can visit most of them on a small boat, while expert divers can only see the others.
Zakynthos town
Zakynthos’s capital and main harbor is called Zakynthos Town, or Zante, and it has a population of about 16.000 inhabitants. The town, located on the eastern part of the island, used to have unique architecture influenced by the Venetians, the French, and the English who colonized the island. However, the major earthquake of 1953 destroyed many of the elegant mansions and fine neoclassical buildings that used to embellish the capital.
The new city was built on the ruins of the former to preserve traditional architecture. However, this was only possible in some areas, like the large square Solomos. Nowadays, only some traditional buildings and churches are visible in the city.
Ultimately, we must admit that the city is charming and lively. Consequently, it is worth a visit. That’s why we recommend discovering it on foot.
Gerakas beach
Gerakas is considered one of the most attractive beaches of Zakynthos for its turquoise waters and unique, unspoiled features. It is located 18 km south of the capital and offers shelter for the endangered sea turtle Caretta-Caretta.
The beach of Gerakas is one of the finest examples of the enchanting landscape and natural beauty that characterize the island of Zakynthos. Its sandy beach is much preferred for swimming and sunbathing. It is a large cove with crystalline waters and golden sand. Some rock formations are scattered on the seashore, offering protection and isolation. There is free parking before you follow the path to this idyllic beach.
Anafonitria Monastery
The Holy Monastery of Theotokos Anafonitria, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is a Byzantine monument with exciting architecture. It was founded around the middle of the fifteenth century during the Venetian occupation of the island. Above all, in this monastery, Agios Dionysios, the protector of Zakynthos, became a monk and lived the final years of his life in the sixteenth/seventeenth century.
Agios Dionisios Church
The church, dedicated to the patron saint of Zakynthos, Agios Dionysios, is situated at the island’s heart. Second, there is an impressive bell tower, the tallest in the city.
Most importantly, it is home to the sanctuary of the saint.
Porto Limnionas – The hidden gem among the top attractions of Zakynthos
It is one of the island’s most inconspicuous places, maybe more beautiful and wild. It is a lovely unspoiled lagoon with transparent and emerald green waters. Also, there is no beach, but plenty of flat rocks you can sunbathe. They don’t have many tourist facilities there. It is still worth a visit.
Nightlife
Nightlife is one of the top attractions on Zakynthos. With plenty of nightlife options and exciting clubs, it attracts thousands of international tourists, primarily students and young people. Thrifty, there are several wild clubs to party and dance to all night’s latest summer hits. The fantastic nightlife can be found in the many nightclubs, especially in the Laganas region, either on the main street or at the beautiful beach.
To conclude, Laganas is not for everyone, especially not for those who enjoy a peaceful vacation. The island offers plenty of other resorts for those. However, Laganas is a big deal for people who like to party.
Top Attractions of Zakynthos – The conclusion
We have presented you with our top attractions in Zakynthos, one of the most spectacular islands in Greece. But if you have further suggestions, please share them with us in the comments below. So, let’s begin. What did you like the most about the island?
Ultimately, you can also read our related articles about the top attractions of other Ionian islands.
