This is Zakynthos

Port Zorro, located on the north side of the peninsula of Vassilikos, is host to trendy bars that attract lots of party lovers. Music, cocktails and dancing last until late at night or even until sunrise!
If you do not join the beach party, you can simply admire the view to the sea. Porto Zorro offers a unique scenery. Giant rocks emerging from the sea, are the perfect surroundings for authentic Mediterranean holidays.

At the end of the peninsula of Vassilikos, lies Agios Nikolaos beach. It is here that the summer sports ‘community’ gathers since the beach provides a great variety of activities such as scuba diving, jet skiing, wind surfing, parasailing and snorkeling. Yet, the secret of this beach is a path just behind the chapel of Saint Nicholas. Walk along to reach to reach a long sandy beach called Plaka –also known as Banana beach due to its shape! Admire the Ionian sea and relax until late at night.

The scenery in Zante varies but is always beautiful. The east side of the peninsula of Vassilikos is home to the National Marine Park that protects the Caretta-caretta turtle –absolutely worth a visit. In this area you will find the beaches of Gerakas and Dafni. Well known by all sports lovers, here you will have the chance to enjoy snorkeling or admire those who do. The beach of Gerakas is located nearby. Sandy, peaceful and free-spirited –no facilities or beach bars around- the beach will be your tranquility haven. Embrace the perfect setting and enjoy swimming under the sun all day long.

These two beaches are extremely clean thanks to the volunteers of the Sea Turtle Protection Society, who take good care of it. It is popular mostly due to the fact that the waters remain shallow for a long way out, thus making it a safe swimming place for children of all ages.
Going past the river next to Kalamaki beach you will find the famous Laganas beach. If party-time is on your cards, then Laganas is the spot for you.

Cosmopolitan, gorgeous and well-organised. Both of these two beaches are a must-see during your holidays in Zante. And it could not be otherwise since “Koukla” in Greek means “beautiful”.
Turquoise waters, sandy beaches and a spectacular view to the sea, will make your day very rewarding.
Yet the secret of this particular area lies on the shore. Explore the nature that surrounds the beaches to discover the oldest olive trees of Zante. They have stood tall, magnificent and proud for more than a thousand years.

Here, the crystal blue of the waters meets the vibrant green of the trees. Small, secluded and pebbled, Marathia beach is as an authentic Greek beach as it can get. Its remoteness pulls only the real explorers, who dare to discover less popular beach choices. Explore the area and let your steps lead you to a near-by, very small beach that offers to you a stunning view over the uninhabited island of Marathonisi.

The island’s capital -called Zakynthos- has 15,000 residents. Vibrant and modern, the city has managed to preserve the traditional spirit of the past, visible in the main squares of Saint Marcus and Solomos. Exploring the city centre you will find traditional picturesque shops owned by the locals, full of homemade food and handcrafted items. Stroll down the main shopping street of Alexandra Roma and enjoy some much needed shopping therapy.
The ruins of the Venetian fortress lie above town, overlooking Zante’s harbour. The fortress is called Kastro, which means castle in Greek, and adds to the city’s charm with a view of the past.
Walking around the city you will find a mix of modern and traditional buildings. The 1953 earthquake that shook the island was the reason for the reconstruction of lots of areas of the capital. This is why today, the architecture of Zante’s capital is a unique mix of the traditional and the contemporary, blending both spirits into one –very charming indeed.

Laganas bay has been a National Marine park since 1999, in order for the endangered Caretta-caretta turtle to be protected. That’s why the bay has been split up into several nautical zones, where fishing is banned and speed limits are extra strict. On the southeast side even more strict rules apply, with all vessel activities being prohibited. In total, six beaches are completely controlled by the Sea Turtle Protection Society, meaning the visitors should respect certain rules during their stay.
Tip: Find out more about the rules to each beach, from the explanatory signs at their entrance.

From June till mid September, during the night time, these cute creatures rush to the shore where they lay about 100 eggs each into the sand. The breeding ground is only to be found on the dry part of the sandy beaches around the bay of Lagana. After two months, the eggs hatch and the tiny hatchlings make their way to the sea. For the protection of this natural process, numerous beaches are closed at night and guarded by volunteers of the Sea Turtle Protection Society.
It is not easy to spot the Caretta-caretta turtles since they are very vulnerable and easily frightened by noise and bright lights. To view them up close, take one of the organised tours starting their voyage to the world of Caretta-caretta, from the port of Agios Sostis or Porto Koukla.

It may be uninhabited yet it is precious. Admiring Marathonisi island from afar you are presented with a surprising fact: its shape resembles a turtle! Maybe this is why the Marathonisi beach is also the place where Caretta-caretta turtles choose to breed. Due to the Caretta-caretta presence, the island is part of the National Marine Park, thus guarded by volunteers that protect the growth of the turtle population.
The other side of the island hosts tiny exotic beaches, ideal places for swimming and total relaxation under the sun. Hire a small boat and anchor in the caves where from you need to dive and swim in order to reach the hidden beaches. The remoteness of the island offers crystal clear waters and peacefulness like no other.
Tip: To discover Marathonisi –located just off the coast of Laganas bay- you need to rent a boat from Porto Koukla.

The gorgeous coastline of the Keri peninsula –located on the south west of Zante, will win your heart over at first sight. It will take you more than that though to fully appreciate its beauty. Rent a boat and sail around it to explore the caves, the dark tunnels and the sealife inside. Reaching the shores, you will be able to find some of the most secluded and quiet beaches of Zante island (ideal for snorkeling and diving). Walk about the beaches and explore nature’s beauty. While relaxing in the water do not be surprised if you spot a monk seal swimming next to you! Zakynthos is the only place in the Mediterranean region where monk seals are still to be found.
If you visit the beach with your loved one, do not miss out on exploring the two giant rocks called ‘Mitzitres’ up close. According to the local legends, if you go there with your loved one and you look into each other eyes while passing between the rocks, you will stay together forever.

Agia Mavra is one of the oldest churches of the island dating from the early 17th century and it is located at the village of Macherado. The fine internal decorations and the collection of wall frescoes and Byzantine icons will amaze you. The centrepiece though–the icon of Saint Mavra- is the one that attracts most of the visitors’ admiration by being an ethereal piece of art that only the artists of the past can shape.
The Venetian belfry of Hypoxanthic is situated next to the church. Its melodious bells can be heard throughout most areas of Zante, filling the island’s spirit with nostalgic sounds.

A survivor. The Roma mansion is one of the few buildings that survived the 1953 earthquake of Zante island. A marvelous architectural accomplishment, it stands proud still, giving us the pleasure of exploring a nostalgic trip to the past. The mansion belonged to the Roma family, aristocrats with Venetian roots, who played a significant role in Greek politics. Thus, during your visit you can admire gorgeous portraits, paintings, rare books and impressive furniture.

Near the Lesante hotel -at walking distance- is situated the hamlet of Marinaika. Visitors arrange trips here in order to admire the beautiful vineyards that go on and on, forming a spectacular mix of colours that reflect nature’s magnificence.

Possibly one of the prettiest regions of Zante island. Akrotiri is the perfect mix of nature’s green and the turquoise waters that Zante is famous for. Tranquility is the key element that rules the area, so choose to explore it during the days you desire a peaceful experience. Stroll around the cypress trees and discover luxurious villas, while experiencing nature’s aromas travelling through the air. Local tavernas can be found nearby, ready to guide you on an exciting tasty journey of local cuisine, after your exploration.

Bochali district, on top of the hill above Zakynthos town, is famous for its stunning view of the island. Daytime offers the colourful image of the houses and local monuments mixing together with nature’s green and the light blue of the sea and the sky. During nighttime, the view becomes even more charming, with the city lights forming a majestic scenery.
Bochali is also a popular spot for night excursions, with bars and cafes buzzing with people, relaxing by the city view.
Tip: If you plan a visit, do not miss out on exploring the church of Zoodochos Pigi. Its antique icons and golden interior will amaze all art lovers.

About 2km from the city lies Lofos Strani, a beautiful hill. It is mostly famous for the fact that Solomos, the poet, was inspired to write the Greek national anthem here. According to the local story, Solomos generated the idea of the anthem by listening to the sounds of shooting of the Messologi battle.
The picturesque square which welcomes you is dedicated to Solomos, and offers maybe the most spectacular view of the island.
Tip: Visit the house of Solomos which is located a few metres away from the square. It is preserved in perfect condition and is definitely worth your exploration.

Kastro -which in Greek means castle- is a Venetian fortress situated above the hill of Bochali. A popular sight among first time explorers of Zakynthos, it is a beautiful heritage of long lost eras. It was built on the ruins of the island’s ancient acropolis, with its construction date estimated to be around 1480, after the Venetian occupation. During the Venetian era Kastro was the island’s capital. Ruined in 1514 by the Turks, Kastro was repaired by the Venetians, yet the earthquakes that challenged it through time, caused extensive damage to its walls.
Recent excavations have brought to light important Byzantine monuments. Today the area has transformed into a beautiful park that is truly worth your time.
Tip: Take a look at the central gate featuring a sculpture of San Marco -the patron saint of Venice.