Zakynthos
temperatur
18°
tid
01:59
Zakynthos
Called "the Flower of the East" by the Venetians, Zakynthos is still one of the lushest and most-loved Greek islands, with green hillsides covered with flowers in spring and early summer, cliffs dropping to dazzling turquoise waters, and some of the country´s best beaches.Hitta resa
The Church of Agios Dionysios was slowly constructed from 1925 to 1948, completed only years before the devastating earthquake of 1953. It famously survived this natural disaster unscathed — proof, say devout islanders, of the saint’s miraculous powers. The church houses the silver-encrusted sarcophagus of the island’s patron saint. Its interior is opulent with gilt work and frescoes. Around the back of the church, the Ecclesiastical Museum displays a collection of religious paraphernalia and vestments, including those of Dionysios himself.
Housed in an elegant neoclassical building on Solomos Square, the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos safeguards the sacred art rescued from the island’s devastating 1953 earthquake. Sailors and volunteers risked their lives to salvage icons, frescoes, and carvings from crumbling churches, preserving a legacy that might otherwise have been lost. The collection spans six centuries, with highlights including 15th-century frescoes, intricate wooden icons, and 18th-century oil paintings. A poignant scale model of pre-earthquake Zakynthos Town stands as a testament to the island’s former grandeur, while reconstructed church interiors.
This modest museum celebrates the life and works of Dionysios Solomos, the Zakynthian author and poet who penned the Greek national anthem along with other notable islanders. The museum houses 18th and 19th century paintings as well as ancient instruments and local artworks.
For a walk on the wilder side, tackle the scenic four-kilometre climb from Argassi village to the remains of Panagía Skopiótissa. The trail weaves through unspoiled nature, rewarding the effort with pine-scented breezes and ever-expanding views. Perched on the summit of Mount Skopós, the monastery has held its vigil since 1624, and its beautiful, fading murals feel like a secret waiting to be discovered. The site was once sacred to the Olympian goddess Artemis, and the monks had a pragmatic streak: they used marble fragments from her ancient temple to build their entrance gate and decorate the church interior.
The ultimate water-park experience is in Tsilivi, among beautiful landscapes and lush vegetation. The Water Park has colourful slides and themed swimming pools, in a family friendly environment that both adults and kids will love.
Formula Zante Go Kart is the biggest and certainly the most-loved karting circuit on Zakynthos. Its 610-metre track features fast straight, tricky corners and hairpin bends designed to create an exciting go-kart experience.
With a dozen dive sites to explore, scuba diving ranks among the top activities in Zakynthos. The underwater landscape offers a varied selection, including nine reef dives, eight wall dives, and a single beach dive. For those looking to get started, Zante Diving Dive Center in Laganas provides equipment rental and instruction, with the added convenience of a pick-up service from Tsilivi.
Delve into the story of one of Greece's essential products at the Aristeon Olive Press Museum. This family-run operation in Lithakia traces its roots back to 1850, when the process was powered by draft animals. A section of the original press is still on display. The tour charts the industry's evolution from those early methods through to metal and hydraulic presses, right up to today's eco-conscious production. Best of all, visits are free, offering the chance to sample local olives and pick up a bottle of truly authentic olive oil.
The Church of Agios Dionysios was slowly constructed from 1925 to 1948, completed only years before the devastating earthquake of 1953. It famously survived this natural disaster unscathed — proof, say devout islanders, of the saint’s miraculous powers. The church houses the silver-encrusted sarcophagus of the island’s patron saint. Its interior is opulent with gilt work and frescoes. Around the back of the church, the Ecclesiastical Museum displays a collection of religious paraphernalia and vestments, including those of Dionysios himself.
Housed in an elegant neoclassical building on Solomos Square, the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos safeguards the sacred art rescued from the island’s devastating 1953 earthquake. Sailors and volunteers risked their lives to salvage icons, frescoes, and carvings from crumbling churches, preserving a legacy that might otherwise have been lost. The collection spans six centuries, with highlights including 15th-century frescoes, intricate wooden icons, and 18th-century oil paintings. A poignant scale model of pre-earthquake Zakynthos Town stands as a testament to the island’s former grandeur, while reconstructed church interiors.
If you want to buy traditional pastry of Zakynthos, Zante Pleasure (Zakynthini Apolafsi) is the ideal destination for that. It is a family-run business which produces Mantolato (nougat), Pasteli (Sesame seed candy), Loukoumi (Turkish delight) and Μantoles (Caramelised roasted almonds).
The Alexander Roma Street in Zakynthos Town is by far one of the most popular streets in town for its numerous shopping options. As well as clothing shops, handmade jewels and sweet treats, you will find a great assortment of souvenir shops, boasting folk art, gift ideas and unique handcrafts.
Bracelets, earrings, necklaces or rings — Blue Handmade Natural Jewels has what you need whether you are looking for a handmade souvenir or you just want to treat yourself with trendy accessories and in-fashion jewels.
Razi Aroma is a unique family-run perfumery, crafting original fragrances on Zakynthos since 1963. Founded by cosmetologist Angela Flamouraki-Razi, the business was born from her discovery of the island's rich aromatic flora. Their very first scent, the "Cologne of Zakynthos", was inspired by the island's historic nickname, "The Flower of the East". Today, you can experience this legacy through a range of original perfumes that capture the essence of the Mediterranean, with notes of local jasmine, lily and orange blossom.
Tucked away in the village of Marineika, just next to Tsilivii, the Adamieion Ceramic Art Studio is surrounded by a landscape of lemon groves, vineyards and ancient olive trees. Here, you can browse a collection of handmade pottery and artworks, or take a class to try your own hand at the ceramic-making process.
If you want to buy traditional pastry of Zakynthos, Zante Pleasure (Zakynthini Apolafsi) is the ideal destination for that. It is a family-run business which produces Mantolato (nougat), Pasteli (Sesame seed candy), Loukoumi (Turkish delight) and Μantoles (Caramelised roasted almonds).
The Alexander Roma Street in Zakynthos Town is by far one of the most popular streets in town for its numerous shopping options. As well as clothing shops, handmade jewels and sweet treats, you will find a great assortment of souvenir shops, boasting folk art, gift ideas and unique handcrafts.
Zakynthos Airport is situated midway between Kalamaki and Laganas, approximately 4 kilometres from major resorts like Tsilivi. A public bus service, operated by KTEL Zakynthos, runs directly to Zakynthos Town. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building in the arrivals area. This service runs frequently during the high season, but its schedule is subject to change, particularly on Sundays and during the quieter months. For a direct transfer, a taxi stand is also available directly in front of the terminal building. The approach for landing offers a dramatic view for passengers, as aircraft typically fly over Laganas Bay before making a 180-degree turn above Kalamaki Beach. This beach forms part of the National Marine Park, a key nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. To protect them, a night-time flight curfew is in effect between 10pm and 5am.
Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Greece, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Public transportation on Zante is operated by KTEL Zakynthos. Regular bus services connect the main resorts with Zakynthos Town throughout the day, though schedules and frequency can vary by season. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or in advance via the KTEL website. Note that buses may not stop at less frequently used halts. If your destination is a smaller stop rather than a terminal or major resort, communicate your destination to the driver in advance. Beyond the island, KTEL buses can take you between Zakynthos and Athens (5 hours, daily), Patras (2 hours) and Thessaloniki (9 hours).
Taxis are plentiful, cheap and professional. Most taxi drivers speak English and taxis carry up to four passengers. The main taxi station is in the central square of Zakynthos Town. Taxis can be booked for a whole day for a tour of the island. You can either go to the main taxi station or book a ride online.
The main post office of the island is located on Georgiou Tertseti street in Zakynthos Town. Here, you can buy postcards, stamps and send letters. The post offices are run by the Greek company Elta and are marked with a blue sign on the outside.
There are several pharmacies in Zakynthos Town and at least one in most resorts. If you require medicine after midnight, a doctor must contact the pharmacy first. For the location of the nearest pharmacy, you should ask at your hotel.
Country code: 30 Area code for the island: 26950
Greece uses the Type F electrical plug with two round pins, same as in many countries in Continental Europe. The standard voltage is 230 volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.
Zakynthos Airport is situated midway between Kalamaki and Laganas, approximately 4 kilometres from major resorts like Tsilivi. A public bus service, operated by KTEL Zakynthos, runs directly to Zakynthos Town. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building in the arrivals area. This service runs frequently during the high season, but its schedule is subject to change, particularly on Sundays and during the quieter months. For a direct transfer, a taxi stand is also available directly in front of the terminal building. The approach for landing offers a dramatic view for passengers, as aircraft typically fly over Laganas Bay before making a 180-degree turn above Kalamaki Beach. This beach forms part of the National Marine Park, a key nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. To protect them, a night-time flight curfew is in effect between 10pm and 5am.
Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Greece, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
