Zakynthos
Zakynthos
The Venetians, who owned it for 600 years, called it "the Flower of the East". 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. Along with its natural beauties, it is claimed to be the sunniest among the island of the Ionian Sea, matching its natural beauties with a sizzling nightlife.Hitta resa
On an east-facing bay, Alykes is midway along the northeast coast of the island. It features a long sandy beach, plenty of water sports facilities and a good choice of tavernas and bars where to sample traditional specialties as well as a handful of small discos.
Argassi beach stretches for 1 km along Zakynthos´ south-eastern coast, featuring an impressive assortment of water sports and facilities for families. The numerous coves and rock formations make Argassi an excellent snorkelling spot and an interesting area to explore.
Separated from Laganas by a 5 km stretch of beach designated as part of the National Marine Park (and as such, free of buildings), Kalamaki is less raucous than its near neighbour and certainly more appealing to families and couples. It shares the same marvellous sands and striking views, and it is very close to the airport.
This unique gem – a 14 kilometers long stretch of sand that runs, almost uninterrupted, from Geraki at the southeast tip of the island to Laganas and beyond – is one of the last nesting grounds of the endangered loggerhead turtle. Parts of Laganas Bay and the beach have been designated as a National Marine Park to protect egg-laying females and hatching turtles. Although powered water sports are banned within its waters, Laganas is still the island’s biggest and noisiest resort, with dozens of pubs, bars and clubs.
Close to the southeast tip of Zakynthos and looking west across Laganas Bay, Vassilikos is one of the most attractive and peaceful among the island’s beach resorts, featuring also some of Zakynthos´ best hotels. The beauty of the sandy beach blends with the thick vegetation that encloses it, featuring well-kept olive groves. The restaurants are located along the main road as well as nearby the seafront, serving national and international delicacies and fresh catch seafood.
This small church, built in 1925, contains the silver-encrusted sarcophagus of St. Dionysios, the island’s patron saint. It survived the 1953 earthquake – proof, say devout islanders, of the Saint’s miraculous powers.
The main attraction is the collection of fine Orthodox icons and wall-paintings collected from the churches and monasteries that were leveled by the devastating 1953 earthquake. A model of Zakynthos Town prior to the disaster shows what the town looked like before the unhappy event.
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 or 19th century paintings and ancient instruments among other local artworks.
On an east-facing bay, Alykes is midway along the northeast coast of the island. It features a long sandy beach, plenty of water sports facilities and a good choice of tavernas and bars where to sample traditional specialties as well as a handful of small discos.
Argassi beach stretches for 1 km along Zakynthos´ south-eastern coast, featuring an impressive assortment of water sports and facilities for families. The numerous coves and rock formations make Argassi an excellent snorkelling spot and an interesting area to explore.
The Golden Fish provides traditional British meals along with Greek cuisine. You will be able to savor fish & chips accompanied with cheese and curry sauce or an original British pie like the chicken and mushroom or the steak and Kidney pie.
BJ’s offers fantastic fast food such as gourmet burgers, pizzas as well as pita fries and many dishes inspired by the Tex-Mex cuisine. Try delicious burritos with one of their super milkshakes and enjoy the sound of house and pop music played 24/7.
Massa Mediterranean´s Italian inspired menu features some of the classics with a twist, adjusted to meet the flavours and the spices of the Greek cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant comprehends diverse options, ranging from seafood and grilled meat to pasta and salad.
Votsalo Taverna is characterized by the rustic flavours of the traditional Greek cuisine, renowned for its hearty portions and unique ingredients. The restaurant has direct access to the beach, offering an advantageous location to behold the Mediterranean sea.
The Halfaway House offers fusion cuisine that blends a real sample of Greek delicacies with British flavours and a touch of Italian classics. Located in the heart of Tsivili seaside resort and just some steps away from the beach, it serves quality food and premium cocktails and drinks.
Being run by an Austrian and a Slovak, Essence certainly does add to Kalamaki dining-scene a touch off eccentricity. Its Greek-inspired menu, compulsory composed of dishes made of the freshest local produce, meets with international flavours, blending into full-flavoured delicacies.
Calypso, taking pride in preparing delicious Greek cuisine from the freshest ingredients, is one of Tsivili´s most-loved and well-established restaurants. Featuring a spacious outside terrace, the eatery has a vibrant atmosphere and an outstanding service.
Panos is pizza, mixed grill, pasta, seafood, Greek specialties and enormous portions, blending the best of the Mediterranean cuisine into a menu that is flavourful and comprehensive. The restaurant is located in the lively Kalamaki Road in Laganas.
The Golden Fish provides traditional British meals along with Greek cuisine. You will be able to savor fish & chips accompanied with cheese and curry sauce or an original British pie like the chicken and mushroom or the steak and Kidney pie.
BJ’s offers fantastic fast food such as gourmet burgers, pizzas as well as pita fries and many dishes inspired by the Tex-Mex cuisine. Try delicious burritos with one of their super milkshakes and enjoy the sound of house and pop music played 24/7.
If you want to buy traditional pastry of Zakynthos, Zante Pleasure 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 (Caramelized roasted almonds).
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.
On your way to Navagio Beach, don´t forget to make a well-deserved stop at Anafonitria Village. Though Anafonitria is not renowned as a holiday resort, it offers various traditional shopping options and quaint roadside markets and stores, ranging from handicrafts to local produce.
Zakynthos boasts a strong perfume making tradition inspired by the island´s aromas and lush flora. Razi Aroma dates back to the 1963, creating fresh and sweet fragrances with unique touches of jasmines, lilies or orange blossoms.
Located in Marineika, Adaimeion Ceramic Art Studio is nestled among lemon and wine grows and over a thousand years old olive trees. The shop features handmade pottery and artworks, offering the opportunity to take classes in the ceramic-making art.
As the name suggests, Grand Duka´s Soap is all about soap. Offering luxury bath products made of 100% natural ingredients, this shop follows traditional Greek recipes and creates unique and unusual soaps.
If you want to buy traditional pastry of Zakynthos, Zante Pleasure 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 (Caramelized roasted almonds).
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 International Airport
Zakynthos Airport is midway between Kalamaki and Laganas. It is located about 4 km from the major holiday resorts such as Tsivili or Laganas. There is no public transport from the airport, though you will find plenty of taxi companies outside the terminal, or you can book one in advance. www.zantetaxi4u.com www.suntransfers.com/zakynthos-airport
Public Transport
A regular bus service connects all the main resorts to Zakynthos Town, with buses running throughout the entire day and tickets sold on board. Car rental is widely available and perhaps the best option if you are planning a tour of the island. Scooters and motorcycles may also be hired, but inexperienced riders should take great care. Smart Rental Car Hire Zakynthos: Agios Sostis Lithakia, Ag. Sostis, Zakynthos +30 2695 053100 Auto Traffic Rentals: Kalamaki, Zakynthos +30 2695 023430
Taxi
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 it online: www.zantetaxi.gr
Post
The main post office of the island is located at Georgiou Tertseti, in Zakynthos Town, where you will be able to buy postcards, stamps and mail letters. The post offices are run by the Greek company Elta and feature a blue sign on the outside.
Pharmacy
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. Vorrisi Dionysia: 89 Alex Roma Street, 291 00 Zante Zakynthos Klavdianou Maria: Tertseti 3, Zakynthos +30 269 502 3504 Pomoni: 41 Roma Dionysiou Street, Zakynthos +30 269 504 2567
Telephone
Country code: 30 Island/Area code: 26950
Electricity
230 v 50 Hz two-pin (southern European) plug.
Zakynthos International Airport
Zakynthos Airport is midway between Kalamaki and Laganas. It is located about 4 km from the major holiday resorts such as Tsivili or Laganas. There is no public transport from the airport, though you will find plenty of taxi companies outside the terminal, or you can book one in advance. www.zantetaxi4u.com www.suntransfers.com/zakynthos-airport
Public Transport
A regular bus service connects all the main resorts to Zakynthos Town, with buses running throughout the entire day and tickets sold on board. Car rental is widely available and perhaps the best option if you are planning a tour of the island. Scooters and motorcycles may also be hired, but inexperienced riders should take great care. Smart Rental Car Hire Zakynthos: Agios Sostis Lithakia, Ag. Sostis, Zakynthos +30 2695 053100 Auto Traffic Rentals: Kalamaki, Zakynthos +30 2695 023430
