Ionian Islands · White cliffs over ultramarine
Zakynthos
Zakynthos, the southernmost of the Ionian Islands, is the home of Shipwreck Beach, the Blue Caves and some of the best scuba diving in Greece. We design private Zakynthos itineraries that go well beyond the famous photo spots.
Step back in time and embrace the off-the-beaten-track character of Zakynthos. The southernmost of the Ionian Islands has become increasingly well known, largely thanks to social media: once everyone saw how beautiful it was, they had to visit.
Beyond the famous photo
Zakynthos was once best known for attracting British holidaymakers, but in recent years it has become something of a breakout star, simply because it is very, very beautiful. We have all seen the pictures of the famous Shipwreck Beach, and we promise the view is even more breathtaking in real life. But there is far more to this island than one photo spot, and we are here to let you in on some of our Zakynthos secrets, from the Blue Caves and Turtle Beach to the best diving in the Ionian.
Explore Zakynthos
Navagio Beach
The viewpoint over Shipwreck Beach, where all the iconic photos are taken, is easily reached by car in the island’s northwest, roughly 45 minutes from Zakynthos Town. Come late morning or early afternoon; arrive too early and the sun will not yet have risen fully over the beach, so you will miss that stunning blue water colour.
The Blue Caves
After Shipwreck Beach, the Blue Caves on the island’s northern tip are probably its next most iconic sight. The caves can only be reached by boat from Porto Vromi, and the geological formations, particularly the double arch, are seriously impressive.
Turtle Beach
You will see many a sign and hear many a tale about swimming with turtles at Gerakas, known as Turtle Beach. It is a nesting ground for caretta caretta turtles, protected by the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. If you visit, take care to support ethical operators focused on the conservation of these animals.
Pairing Zakynthos
For more ideas in the Ionian, look at Kefalonia just across the water and quiet little Ithaca beyond it; the three combine into a single unhurried route through the southern Ionian.
Known first-hand
Our best picks on Zakynthos
- Best Local Specialty Dopio
A sharp, spicy Zakynthian cheese matured in olive oil for months, served with fried eggs, tomato and the island's special cured ham, made to a recipe inherited from the Venetians. Finish with frygania, the island's three-layer dessert of syrupy rusks, vanilla cream and cinnamon.
- Best Activity Scuba Diving
A diver's paradise with twelve spectacular sites and marine life from Mediterranean monk seals to massive sea turtles. Not a diver? On the wild west coast the snorkelling is truly epic, full of hidden caves and rocky coves.
- Best Hidden Spot Plakaki Beach
A hike down steep stairs and uneven terrain keeps the crowds away; once there, you will likely be the only soul on this slice of heaven. Easier to reach is Porto Limnionas, a photogenic cove with sea caves and water in a beautiful shade of blue.
- Best Bar Porto Paradiso
On Alykes Beach, serving great food at any hour, with no better place for evening drinks. Denis and his crew are unbelievably welcoming, and we have a particular fondness for the passionfruit cocktail.
- Best Beach The Skopos headland
The southeast headland hides beach after beach, from wild, empty Vourderi to sandy Porto Zorro with its well-kept beach club, and the slice of paradise that is Makris Gialos. There is a beach for everyone on Zakynthos, if you know where to look.
- Best Dining El Sueno
A big round terrace in the island's northeast overlooking the coast and the islet of Myrissi, serving fresh seafood and Greek classics. After your meal, wooden stairs lead down to the restaurant's own secret swim spot with a snorkelling cave.
Zakynthos has an international airport (ZTH) with seasonal flights from across Europe, plus ferry connections from Kyllini on the Peloponnese.
Design
Design your experience
Tell us the occasion, the season and who is coming. One of our Epicureans will come back with a first sketch of Zakynthos, and will tell you if another island suits your dates better.