General information about Zakynthos

Zacinto, commonly called Zakynthos by

the past poets, is the southern and third
biggest island belonging to the Ionies
group of islands.
It covers an area of 405 squared
kilometres where a bit more than 35.000 inhabitants live and is
located 300 km west from Athens and 9,5 marine miles from the
Peloponneso coast from where it is reachable by a regular ferry
service.
Zakynthos, island of big contrasts for the presence of golden
beaches and massive rocky coasts, benefits from a Mediterranean
temperate climate with mild winters and cool summers; the
generous winter rains favour the growth of thick vegetation and
assure a remarkable water reserve.
That is why the island is very green and in the past both Homer
and the Venetian rulers used to call it wooded and Levant
flower.
The very warm waters that wash the coast favour a particularly
long tourist season (from May till the end of October) made
Zakynthos an object of international interest especially because in
the southern part of the island the CARETTA-CARETTA turtles
breed; they are a rare specimen protected by the Greek legislation
with a new marine park.
Along the rocky, western coasts the seals Monachus Monachus
breed too and they are also protected by the local administrative
authorities.
In addition to the wonderful natural landscape, Zakynthos offers the
possibility to visit numerous deserted small islands that surround it
like Pelouzo and Marathonissi in the Lagana's Bay, St. John in front
of Porto Vromi and the Strofades.
The latter are two small islands 27 nautical miles south from
Zakynthos which are part of the marine park due to their beauty.
In the last years the island has undergone a progressive
development to offer tourists modern infrastructures keeping its
traditional aspect still visible both in the restaurants along the
seashore and the small villages in the outback; this traditional
aspect of the past together with the joy of life and hospitality of its
inhabitants will touch you from the very first day.
How to reach the island

Very easily reachable from Athens with

daily flights of 45 minutes.
Further more during the summer period Zakynthos
is directly connected to many European cities with
charter flights.
There are also flights connecting Zakynthos to
Kefalonia, Corf, Preveza (Lefkada) and Kitira with
Skyexpress (www.skyexpress.gr).

From Italy, with departures from the

harbours of Trieste, Venice, Ancona,
Bari and Brindisi you can reach Patras by ferryboat.

From Patras proceed for 60 km along the New

National Road via Pyrghos to the coast town of
Killini.
From Killini there are ferry boats leaving to
Zakynthos and the the trip duration is about 1 hour
and a half. Zakynthos is connected to Kefalonia by
ferryboat too; the cross is about 1 hour from A.
Nikolaos to Pesada.

By bus, KTEL, there are daily trips from Zakynthos

to Athens (5 hours), Patras (2 hours) and Salonika
(9 hours).

How to move around the island

In addition to the bus service that connects the

main islands locations (Tsiliv, Laganas, Kalamaki,
Argasi, Alykes, Keri, A.Nikolaos, Porto Roma;
leaving from Zakynthos down town), Zakynthos
roads net is very well organized so as the Taxi
Service and it is very easy to rent bicycles,
motorbikes, cars or jeeps.
Further more there are many tourist tours of the
island by bus, jeep or boat organized by many travel
agencies.
 For what concerns boats, in addition to good
landing sites, it is always possible to rent boats or
benefit of the taxi boat service in the main
interesting tourist areas.

When to come

May: summer season starts with hot days and fresh evenings.
The island of Zante is still empty with few tourists and its the ideal
time to find lonely and relaxing beaches. The sea is mostly flat as
there aren't strong winds and Zakynthos has a gorgeous nature full
of flowers.

June: it starts to be very hot and beaches become the perfect place
where to stay all day long. Also the temperature of the sea starts to
be perfect and the beaches begin to be filled with tourists. This is
the best month to sleep in the night!

July: its very hot... but a fresh wind will save you every afternoon.
The tourism start to be massive and people from all the Europe
come to Zante island to spend their holidays.
In order to sleep well in the night it would be better to have the air
condition.

August: the same hot weather as in July but with more humidity.
In this month youll see Zakynthos full of tourists, especially from
Italy, who fill beaches during the day and night clubs during the
night.
This is the ideal month for those who love crowd of people and night
life!

September: the weather temperature starts to be nice and the

beaches which are less crowded are perfect in the midday. There
are few rainy days that change into a blue sky with a hot sun. This
is a perfect month to relax in contact with nature without mass
tourism.

Useful telephones

Zakynthos telephone code +30 26950

Police 22100 /
Tourist Police 48266 /
Hospital 24470
Emergency 24482 /
Harbour Office 24484
Fire Bridge 59100
Airport 22166
Bus Station 28117 /
Radio taxi 28118
Telecommunications 22199
Post Office 28322
Post Code 42656 /
22255
48400
42499
42418
29100

Climate

During the Summer season, from May to October, rain is very rare
and the temperatures are between 30 and 40C.
A fresh breeze is very often blowing and the wind, the Mistral,
typical of this island raises in the early afternoon from North to
South.
Below are presented some temperatures (in C) which are usually
felt during Summer period.

May June July Aug. Sept. Oct.

Daily Temperatures 26 36 38 40 30 25
Nightly
14 25 22 20 16 13
Temperatures
Possible rains 4 3 1 0 5 8
Relative humidity in
60 58 56 60 62 64
%

Zante Weather - We provide weather reports for Zante.

General info about Greece

Documents: if you are E. U. citizens no special papers are needed to

visit Greece, all the other citizens need their passports and for more
info they can contact their embassies or consulates in Greece.

Animals: before being carried to this land they need a health

certificate and an antirabic prophylaxis. The validity of the
certificate has to be more than 12 months, more than 6 months for
cats and it has to be made at least 6 days before arrival.

Health: in Zakynthos town you can find the hospital where you can
ask for help showing your sanitary card. There are few private
clinics and doctors who speak English in the city and almost every
village has a pharmacy.

Clothing: only in churches and monasteries proper clothes are

required (trousers or long skirts and t-shirts with sleeves).
Some churches supply shawls to the visitor who is not properly
dressed just before the visit.

Clock: time in Greece is two hours ahead the Greenwichs meridian.

Like everywhere in Europe also in Greece, in the Summer season
(March September) the daylight saving time is effective.
Something curious ... Time in Greece is conceived in a very
particular way: here time is not running, there is no such concept of
"being on time" and the clock is just something to wear.
The Greeks themselves are aware of taking it easy under every
respect (but not in serving the tourist!) up to the point that G.M.T. is
not considered as the Greenwich Meridian Time, but as the Greek
Maybe Time!

Electricity: outlets in Greece are double and not triple; therefore we

suggest travelling with an adaptor.

Roads: the island has an efficient road network, with main roads,
secondary and no-asphalted ones leading to the most unthinkable
places.
The roads on Zante island are not always in a good condition, so be
careful and dont forget your security belt!

Telephone: there are many public telephone boxes from which it is

possible to make telephone calls with pre-paid telephone cards that
you can buy in every local shop.
It is possible to make national and international telephone calls also
from the OTEs office (Greek Organization of Telecommunications)
open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 14:00. In the office there
are also some positions for public use.

Money: being as well member of the European Community, the

currency in Greece is Euro. The most famous credit cards can be
used in Zante to pay accommodation, restaurants, rentals etc...
Also the traveler cheques can be changed in every bank or
exchange office.
Tips in restaurants are not obligatory, its up to you.
 The most beautiful beach of
Zakynthos and one of the five or six
most photographed beaches of all
Greece.
Accessible only by sea, it gives you
the idea of hugeness and perfection.
It consists of millions of small
pebbles with the blue shades of the
sea as far as the eye can see, it
results unique in its gender and the
relict looks like if it was made by an artist.
Arriving by caique, the tall lateral walls hide the island till the last
minute when out of the blue you get a complete view of the bay.

Waters around Navagio often

have electric light blue colour
because of the numerous
sulphurous caves around the
beach and when the sea is
rising a large quantity of
sulphur radiates, giving the
possibility of taking beautiful
pictures.
To visit the beach, a part from
the numerous tours of the
island, it is possible, from the
close bay of Porto Vromi,
to get the daily taxi-boat offered by the local boats. We suggest
visiting Navagio in the morning since in the afternoon the sea tends
to become bigger and may cause problems to get back.
You can not leave the island without having seen this beach from
the panoramic view at the top of the promontory facing the beach
itself.
Half way between the villages of Volimes and Anafonitria there is an
asphalt road leading to a huge car-park; getting down a few steps
you reach a balcony from where you can admire the beach.

Marathonissi is a small private

island in the turtles bay close
to Limni Kers beach.
Until the second world war the
island was lived, today it has
neither inhabitants nor
buildings.
It is now one of the areas
where the CARETTA CARETTA
turtles go to breed.
You can visit the island by
private boat or by organized
tourists visits by caique and
 for the stronger ones there is
the possibility to go by canoes
and maybe meeting the turtles.

Pay attention that as the island

is inside the Marine Park the
anchorages it is not legal.
There are two beautiful
beaches: one of pebbles,
reachable by swimming from a
huge cave, the other one is a
large sand area smoothly
gliding towards the sea.
For those who love the sun the
sandy beach is the best
whereas for those who love
snorkeling the pebble one is
perfect to visit the cave (on the
right to the beach)

and other smaller ones or

partly submerged full of
starfish and concretions. The
island offers no snack bars,
electricity or anything that may
disturb the turtles; taking this
into consideration it is
advisable to take food and
beverage when going there.
For those coming with their
own boat, we suggest visiting
the Ker Caves, a few minutes
by boat from the island along
Marathias Cape coast.
One more peculiar thing about
the island: Zakynthos is
famous for the turtles and also
for the last specimen of
Monacus Monacus seals that
populate its shores.
One of those seals chose one
of the small caves of
Marathonissi as its Summer
residence, we leave to the
more adventurous ones the
pleasure to discover it.
In August a hundred of people per day
go to the lighthouse to admire the sun
diving in the sea at sunset and the sky
nuances before darkness.
Next to the small lighthouse erected
on the top of the promontory, it is
possible to park the car in a no
asphalted square projecting on the sea
and from where you can contemplate
an incomparable view.
The sight from this place , especially
on a clear day, will be an unforgettable
moment of your holiday in Zakynthos,
especially because by moving along
the small lighthouse, you have the
possibility to see, from the top of the
cliff, the Mizitres.
The Mizitres are two huge rock cones
flanked by a deserted island rising
from the blue sea and signing the
beginning of the Kers caves.

From the lighthouse leaving behind you the car park and following
the small path on the right, after 250 metres, you can reach a small
natural terrace; we prefer not to describe the sight because
pictures are better than words.
It is one of the most hidden
places and maybe for this reason
more beautiful and wild of the
entire island.
To get there you have to pass
through the mountains village of
Agios Leon and from there
following the signs, driving down
a recently asphalted road running
down to the sea and ending in a
small square where you can park.
From there getting down a few
steps carved in the rock, you
reach a real fiord stupefying the
visitor for the clearness and
colours of the waters.
Here the sea is really beautiful for
its depths and caves; its a good
place to snorkel especially
because the only beach is so tiny
that to relax and sunbathe you
have to lie down on polish and flat
rocks.

Of course here there are no

tourist facilities so we suggest
carrying a sunshade since, even
if rich in vegetation, the fiord
coast lacks in shades.
For those who really care about
caves it is worth visiting the first
one just getting down the steps;
once there and in the water you
understand that the cave is to
Ker Caves, accessible only by sea
with private boats or tourist
excursions, develop along the
promontory of Marathia Cape, in the
South-West area of the island.
Along the coast there are many
caves which entrances scarcely
suffice to get in swimming, others
are broad enough to enter directly
with a boat.
It is very easy to reach the caves
that are surmounted by cliffs where
the sea is very deep and as such
reachable.
While visiting the caves it is possible
to stop to swim or sunbathe in one of
the many small beaches of Marathia
Cape or to reach by boat the Mizitres.

Mizitres are two crags

very close to the cliffs that
form a small beach of very
fine sand reachable only
by boat.
Admiring them from a
close position you can
notice that in one of the
two crags there is a crack
where it is possible to
swim and where a lot of
starfish live.
 Bochali it is a lovely
and small village at the
top of the promontory
rising at the back of the
city of Zakynthos.
Keeping the sea at your
right, once passed the
chief town, there is an
inner road going up and
once passed the
Nautical Museum you turn left going up till you reach Bochali.

Reaching the place is very easy, not so

easy to park, but we believe it is really
worth especially at sunset or at night when
the landscape of the enlighten city and the
harbour bay are really beautiful.
In spite of the small dimensions of the
village there are different restaurants
offering a romantic dinner under the stars.

Bochali is worth visiting even by day to

take pictures of the small church of
Zoodos Pigi with its Byzantine icons, or of
the huge pinewood with ancient Venetian
castle.
The castle, partly destroyed by the earthquake that in 1953
devastated the island, must be visited during your holidays even
because from there the 360 view allows the visitor to see in one
time both coasts of the Island

The Blue Caves are one of the

most popular and advertised
attractions of the island; you can
visit them with your own boat or
with one of the many organized
tours.
The Blue Caves consist of
particular geologic formations
giving life to a succession of
caves along the North-West coast
of the island; they start soon
after Agios Nikolaos to end near
Skinari Cape.
Their name is due to the
particular reflections of the
water in the caves and you can
visit many of them with a small-
medium boat whereas the others
are to be visited only by expert
swimmers and divers.
Between Agios Nikolaos and
Skinari Cape it is possible to
reach by car a small mill and
from there coming down a
hundred steps, to reach the piece
of coast where the caves are.
At the bottom of the steps there
are some polish rocks, not very
comfortable to lie down to
sunbathe, that are a good base to
start visiting the caves by
swimming and to dive.

The top 10 can not omit

a night of music and
enjoyment in the
southern part of the
island; the only one that
together with small
typical villages offers
tourist areas with
discos and pubs open
till late night.
Besides the seashore
and the characteristic
piazzas of Saint Marco
and D. Solomos of the
city of Zakynthos,
Laganas, Kalamaki,
Argasi, Tsiliv and
Alykes are the only
places where it is easy
to stay up late passing
from one pub to the
other among
tens of tourist attractions and where
supermarkets and souvenir shops are
open from the first hours in the morning
till late at night.
In those towns you can find inns and
shops of every sort, or pubs and discos
with plenty of beer and where you can
dance for hours.
You can enter many discos for free and
pay only the beverage.
Furthermore we suggest, in case you
have your own car, to park in the
surrounding area of the town to avoid
being stuck in the traffic; for those who
do not have a car it is easy to move by
taxi.

Gerakas is the southern beach of the island

and for sure one of the most beautiful.
It consists of a long sand tongue ending in a
small promontory diving in the sea.
The promontory is very famous since it is
entirely made of argyle and you can not
miss the opportunity to get a regenerating
argyle bath: your skin will turn into silk!
From May to October for those who would
like to wake up before dawn, there is the
possibility to assist to the turtles eggs
hatching and admire tens of specimens
trying to reach the sea.
This beach is a protected area of the marine park because of the
turtles choice to go there to hatch, and in addition to the fact that
it doesnt offer any tourist devices the access is forbidden from
half an hour before the sunset to half an hour after dawn.
 Shiza is a cliff that together with
Shipwreck and the Keris lighthouse,
offers you a breathtaking landscape and
unforgettable sunsets.
From the top of the cliff the view can
space from the infinite blue of the Ionian
sea to the underlying Seal Gulf, a bay that
derives its name from the seals that every
year go there to breed in the marine
caves.
Visiting Shiza, in addition to visiting the
huge concrete cross in memory of the
deceased of the civil war, you can also
visit the narrow lanes of the small mountains villages like Kampi,
Exo Chora and Maries, where inhabitants are still living on farming
and handicraft and where the time
seems to run slower than ever.
In those villages it is possible to buy
hand made products such as mats
and table clothing or natural food
like honey and oil.

The natural environment of the island with its massive cliffs and huge and green flat lan
In Zakynthos you can visit bays with very fine sand, accessible only by sea, where you c
In this section together with the assistance of the map you can view the beaches of the

Beaches are ordered from the Northern to the Southern ones of the island.

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Agios Nikolaos

Not to be confused with the Southern beach of the island that has the same
name.
The beach of this village consists of small pebbles and it is rather deep.
This is the only village from where the ferry boats form Zakynthos to Kefalonia
leave and for this reason it has one of the most equipped harbours of the island.
In front of the harbour there is an unoccupied small island reachable with a nice
swim.

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Makris Gialos

A real postcard beach, a must during a holiday.

The coast road leading to the beach offers from the very first moment a
breathtaking landscape.
This wide beach consists of a mixture of sand and pebbles and the sea is so
beautiful that it seems to be stolen from a Caribbean beach.
The waters are deep and beaches consist of rocks and sand; the sea in this part
of the island is wonderful both for the waters clearness and the abundance of
ichthyic flora and fauna.
The snorkeling lovers should spend there at least two days: one to visit the coast
that from the beach proceeds to the left and one for the right promontory. The
coast around Makris Gialos consists of a series of underwater colourful caves and
concretions; with an underwater torch you can enjoy the internal part of caves
and tunnels and discover a world of corals and starfish.
In the future the beach will be able to offer some tourist facilities; at the moment
there are some refreshment areas nearby.

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Xigia

This is the starting point of the northern part of the island which consists
mainly of a rocky and fiords coast and a great sea, heaven of snorkelling.
The beach is small but scarcely frequented, main characteristic is a marine cave
with a sulphur spring extremely good for the skin.
The only problem is the strong smell of sulphur coming from the cave.

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Alykes

In front of the homonymic village, Alykes beach embraces a wide gulf and
consists of a long tongue of fine sand.
The bay is good for sunbathing in complete relax and also for enjoyments being
equipped with water sports and snack bars.
This beach is also good to stop for those who, leaving from the main town, intend
to visit the northern part of the island.

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Alikanas

Alikanas is the continuation of Alykes beach; it's the sandy tongue more to
south of the gulf that ends with a small port for the fishing boats.
The beach is very spacious, equipped with deckchair and umbrellas and other
facilities for the tourists like taverns near the sea, tour by boat in order to visit
the Blue Caves and water sports.
Alikanas is also the name of the old beach of the town that is not inside the gulf
of Alykes but is a long the coast towards south. Smaller and less spacious than
the most famous Alikanas, this beach offers more privacy, crystalline water and
fine sand.
It is not easy to find parking here because the final part of the road is no-
asphalted and narrow and does not facilitate the maneuvers.

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Psarou

Psarou beach is a splendid long tongue of sand in front of a crystalline sea.

Its not very wide but it is situated in a quite area.
Its the ideal place for those who are fond of relaxation because it is one of the
less crowded beaches of the island.

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Donkey

From Zakynthos going north, one km after the village of Tsiliv, it is possible to
take a road on the right reaching this beach that owes its name to the past
presence of many donkeys.
The beach consists of a small sand amphitheatre with a small harbour, very
active in the past, nowadays only small fishing boats or private boats use it.
There you can also play beach-volley and, except July and August, it is a quiet
place.

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Ampoula

Ampoula beach is located along the coastal road between Alykes and Tsiliv.
It is a sand and pebbles beach sliding down mildly into the sea.
There is an elevated and grassy level with deckchairs and sunshades for rent
from where it is easy to reach the restaurants and the bar.

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Tsilivi

Tsilivs beach is one of the most tourist ones.

It is a long tongue of sand and the sea has a sandy depth for the first 30/40
metres and from there rocks.
Everywhere there are tourist and sport facilities with water games, the possibility
to rent water scooter and pedalo

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Krioneri

Passing Zakynthos port pointing north, the beach coasting the sea is very long
but narrow; it isnt one of the best but there you can find different facilities like
tennis courts, children fun parks and yacht clubs.
In the week end the island inhabitants populate this beach.
We suggest walking along the seashore passing Zakynthos' beach till Krioneri
(where the road goes up). Here it is possible to park the car or motorbike in an
area on the right and swim in a heavenly rocky sea.
The sea depth is here crowded with octopuses.

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Argasi

The gulf where Argasi beach is located is very beautiful to be admired at night
coming back from Vassilikos towards Zakynthos.
You can see both the small village of Argasi and the main town.
The small sandy beach has an ancient bridge partly based in the sand and partly
in the sea.

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Porto
Kaminia

Located soon after Xirokastelo it is the first of many beaches of this tongue of
land.
It is a sandy beach, long but narrow and at its back there is a lovely grass hosting
sunshades and deckchairs for the tourist.

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Porto Zoro

It is one of the beaches in the southern part of the island completely sandy and
without tourist facilities.
Not far from the seashore peculiar rocks, assuming the shape of mushrooms, are
the main characteristic of this beach.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Banana

It is the longest beach of the island.

Apparently never ending, this tongue of sand is also very deep and even if
equipped for the tourist, it is far from villages and buildings.
To get to the beach you have to reach and cross the surrounding pinewood along
the largest road.
Along the beach there are small refreshment areas.

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Agios Nikolaos

Once passed the pinewood you can find instructions about how to reach the
beaches of Plaka, Ionio and Agios Nikolaos.
They are all very similar, sandy and equipped to satisfy the tourist with taverns
and bars where to rest in the warmest hours of the day.
It is also possible to have fun with water sports like the parasailing: the thrill of
being suspended in the air with a parachute pulled by a fast speedboat.

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Plaka

Very close to the beach of Nikolaos, Plaka is a small and quiet beach; there are
no facilities for water sports but it is possible to rent sunshades and deckchairs.
Walking along the beach it is possible to see small gods statues on the rocks a
few metres from the sea.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Porto Roma

The last of the beaches of the western coasts, not including Gerakas that is
facing the turtles gulf, it consists of sand too.
Not really deep if compared to the other beaches, it offers the possibility to land
with a small boat in the tiny harbour.
The name of the beach is dedicated to an important inhabitant of Zakynthos:
Alessandro Roma that in this very place had his abode.

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The western coast of the island offers the most beautiful sea but with beaches
very difficult to reach from the mainland.
The ones listed here below, a part from the relict beach, are the only fiords easily
reachable.

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Plakaki

To have a swim in this amazing place you have first to reach Agalas mountain
village.
As you'll be in Agalas you just have to follow the sign and new road will take you
down to a large parking.
Here you have a great view over the sea and a small path through the rocks will
permit you to go down to the sea where flat stones are ideal for relax.
As you come down just follow your left hand as from here is more easy to dive
into this marvelous sea.
We suggest you not to take a lot of things with you along the path and to watch
out children as the path is safe but very steep.
As you'll go back you will notice a sign on the road for Andronios' wells. We
suggest visiting them as they're ancient and still used by local people.

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Porto Roxa

Porto Roxa, easily reachable by car from the village of Agios Leon, and from
Porto Limnionas, is located half way from the western coast of the island.
It is a small fiord that offers the possibility to swim in a wonderful sea.
From this bay, a landing-place only for small fishing boat, getting down a few
steps carved in the rock, you reach a real fiord stupefying the visitor for the
clearness and colours of the waters.
It is possible to reach the water faster diving from a spring board four metres
above the sea.
Of course here there are no tourist facilities so we suggest carrying a sunshade.

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Porto Limnionas

Located half way from the western coast of the island, it is easily reachable by
car from the village of Agios Leon. More than a beach it is a fiord that for its
amazing beauty deserves a special place in our top 10 list, where it has been
described in detail.

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Porto Stenitis

Porto Stenitis is a big fiord with clear water and caves along the coast.
It's possible to reach it from Maries town with an asphalted road that became a
dirt road in the last stretch.
You will not find a beach or tourist facilities, it's a calm bay with the best water of
the island.
It's a fiord just to go for a swim and not to stay for all day along.
Porto Stenitis is a docking only for small fishing boat and a place where you have
to use your mask and fins.

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Porto Vromi

It is a beautiful fiord, north of the island, with two bays reachable by a road.
From both bays ferry boats leave to visit the beach of Navagio and the cliff rich of
caves and small beaches.
The beach, in the southern bay, is small and sandy without facilities like
sunshades.
It is also possible to rent pedalo to visit the near caves. Typical of Porto Vromi is
the small front deserted island.

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Shipwreck

The beach with the relict lying on the white sand is the most popular and
photographed of entire Greece.
This beach is enchanting both arriving by caique and watching it from the top; for
this reason it is the first of the top 10 most beautiful places of Zakynthos' island.

Beaches are ordered from the Western to the Eastern ones of the bay.

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Cape
Marathia

Marathia Cape is a lovely promontory at the far end of the marine park; it is
located in the area of Limni Ker from where you can take a road going up to the
right coasting the entire promontory.
The road is in good condition, traversable both by car and motorbike and allows
reaching the small beaches scarcely crowded even in August.
These beaches, even though with polish rocks, are very good for sunbathing and
snorkeling since the sea here is clear and full of fish.
Nearby it is possible to find a couple of refreshment areas without having to drive
back to Limni Ker.
On the biggest beach is possible to rent sunshades and deckchairs and there is a
taxi-boat service from the beach to Marathonissi island.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Limni Keri

It is a small but lovely beach developing along the village seashore with
restaurants and tourist shops.
The beach is of pebbles but the sea depth is sandy; this beach is a strategic point
to visit Marathonissi and for a lovely trip to the caves of Marathia Cape; it is also
possible to hire motorboats for daily trips.
There is also a small harbour and two diving center for wonderful experiences
under the sea.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kaminia

Kaminia is a small beach of white pebbles.

It is narrow but with a wonderful water and it is difficult to reach by land.
There are only steps not comfortable to come down.
Kaminia is the continuation of Porto Koukla so it is advisable to go for a walk
along the beach to reach it.
Sure this is the ideal beach in order to be alone or nearly.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Porto Koukla

Porto Koukla is a sandy narrow beach.

Situated in the middle of the gulf, it allows to have a panoramic view from
Marathonissi island to Ag. Sostis.
This beach is constituted from two different parts.
First can be reached by sea continuing along the beach of Agios Sostis.
In this part of beach there arent tourist features and it continues until to a small
cape.
After the cape there is the second part of the beach that consists of a mixture of
sand and pebbles.
This part can be reached by land.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agios Sostis

Small island in front of Laganas harbour, it is connected to the mainland with a

wooden bridge enlightened at night.
In the past it was connected to Zakynthos island then, because of an earthquake,
it became a peculiar small island, final destination of many tourists.
At night it turns into a real disco with paying entrance, whereas during the day it
is a wonderful place where you can take a bath among thousands of fish.
Next to the small island, not to the side of port, there is also a sandy beach that
takes its name.
Beach is long but little large and you can find deckchair and umbrellas. Along the
beach there are bars and taverns.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laganas

It is the youngest and most commercial beach of the island.

It is a long tract of sand incorporating the as long beach of Kalamaki full of
deckchairs and sunshades, restaurants and snack bars open from the morning till
late night.
This beach together with Tsiliv and Alykes ones is the main meeting point for the
people who enjoy night life, it is always crowded with people from May to October
and it has every sort of tourist facilities: volleyball, boat trips to see the turtles
the sea water, even if less attractive than other parts of the island, is always very
warm and always clear, sliding slowly down because of the short depth even at a
certain distance from the shore.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalamaki

It is a beach of fine sand very crowded in the first tract, the one close to the
hotels, but it is worth, at least once, to go for a walk towards the final part of this
beach where the mountains dive directly into the sea.
In this part of sea there are crystal clear and warm waters, and it is possible to
be alone even in August.
Instead walking in the opposite direction you can reach Lagana beach, really this
two beaches are only one longest sandy tongue.
Halfway between the two tourist towns the beach is usually desert and behind
there is a big pinewood.

Even for this beach the admittance hours are limited due to the presence of
turtles.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dafni

It is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the island.

The sea here is the warmest of the entire island (temperatures between 27 and
30C); being a protected beach it doesnt offer any sports facilities but there are a
couple of family taverns.
At the two extremities there are rocky areas and in the front at one or two km
distance there is the lovely small island of Pelouzo; this island is not reachable
being from May to October in a non navigable part of see according to the rules of
the Marine Park.
There are two different roads that bring at the two extremities of Dafni beach.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gerakas

The most southern beach of the island, it is long and sandy, one of the most
beautiful and for this reason it belongs to the top 10 list (where it is very well
described).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zakynthos Marine Park is located

along the southern coast from the
promontory of Marathias Cape to the
beach of Gerakas, including the
outback of the beaches of Limni
Ker, Laganas and Kalamaki and the
Strofades, two small islands 50
nautical miles southern of
Zakynthos.
This area presents the main
characteristics of the Mediterranean
ecosystem, with sandy beaches,
emerging rocks and sandy dunes,
whereas in the outback there are
thick pinewoods, fertile areas for the
agriculture and the Mediterranean
landscape
with spontaneous vegetation.
The National Marine Park has been
founded in 1999 with the main purpose
of defending the particular fauna of
the southern part of the island and of
its integration with the local society.
The most important animal specimen
to protect are the turtles turtles
Caretta-Caretta and the
Mediterranean Seals Monachus-
Monachus.
The turtles are all over the areas of
the Park and every year they come
back to the sandy beaches south of
Zakynthos to breed whereas the seals
are usually seen around the bay of
 Laganas but they prefer the numerous
caves of the western coast of the
island.

In addition to turtles and seals the

park intends to protect also other
animal specimen:

Birds: the southern gulf of Zakynthos and

the Strofades are usually visited by
migrating birds, wild swans, swallows,
kingfishers, and sea gulls.

Reptiles and amphibians: there are many

frogs, tortoises, iguanas and soft water
snakes.

Mammals: in the outback there are many

porcupines and wild rabbits, whereas in
the park waters it is possible to meet
dolphins with the bottle muzzle or
Tursiops Truncatus.

The symbol of the National Marine Park of

Zakynthos is the turtle and the head office is
in Zakynthos, El. Venizelou street.

There is also an exhibition centre sea turtle

Caretta Caretta!

For more information:

Tel: 0030 26950 29870-1
Fax: 0030 26950 23499
www.nmp-zak.org
 They are two small islands in the Mediterranean Sea, 72
The smaller one is Arpia and the bigger one Stamfani; th
The Strofades are popular for their beauty, for the rich ve
In the past the islands were counted among the most fer
still are some fruit trees like orange and lemon trees, fig
There are more than 250 different trees and flowers spec
The Strofades are part of the marine park since more tha
hoopoes and swallows.

In addition to being the abode of different animal and vege

daughter of the Nicea Emperor who, thanks to those islan

The monastery is a fortress that in the centuries survived nature and buccaneers that a
In the past many monks used to live there and among them there was Saint Dionisios th
symbol of the Byzantine Empire.

Mythology

Artemis, goddess of hunting, used to wander around the green woods of Zakynthos whe

The cult and devotion, in archaic era, to Artemis and Apollo resulted in the organisation

News about the island founder are from Homer and concern Zakynthos, son of Dardanu
Zakynthos, as island founder, is represented in various coins and symbol of the entire is

There is also another theory according to which the Arcades, in the first millennium bef

the goddess Artemis typical of Arcadia. The Arcades also founded, along the Spanish co

Arkisios, king of Kefalonia, and was under the power of Ulysses, king of Itaca.

Together with the other lands ruled by Ulysses, Zakynthos took place to the war of Troy

After the war of Troy with Ulysses come back to Itaca, there was the legendary slaught

This mythological event, told by Homer in the Odyssey, seems to refer to a rebellion in t

Roman Period

Before the Romans domination, Zakynthos remained neutral to the Persians Wars and w

Zakynthos a strategic place for the development of the trades and the expansions of th

The islanders didnt accept the Roman hegemony and tried numerous rebellions ending

cohabitation accepting reciprocal obligations and concessions up to the point that joini

Byzantine Period

After the Roman Empire fall, Zakynthos, the Ionian islands and the colonies along the w

a new historical period, characterized by stability and social rebirth, started.

During the Byzantine domain, in addition to the Christian Era, the islanders were classif

The most important class was the landowners one, tradesmen and workers belonged to

Venetian Period

In 1185 with the progressive decline of the Byzantine empire, Zakynthos island faced an

Under the latter dynasty Zakynthos managed to enlarge the borders of its county conqu

Zakynthos to their provinces.

From 1492 the Venetian Government started a campaign to transfer many Venetians cit

The harmonic cohabitation between the two populations in that period was exemplary m

In less than three centuries the Venetian domination allowed the island to flourish from

The French liberal ideas in the XVIII centuries, spread in the whole Europe and reached
The French and Russian-Turkish Domination

After the fall of the Venetian Republic Zakynthos island was subjected to the democrati

The freedom and innovation brought by the French collided very soon with the nostalgia

On march 22, 1800 in Costantinopolis Russia and Turkey agreed to found the State of th

British Domination

In 1809 the British settled in Zakynthos with a big army and made it the capital of the Io

All those benefits vanquished with the arrival of T. Maitland, the new governor of Zakyn

He was an authoritative tyrant up to the extent that the population, after some protests

The society was behind the Greek national insurrection and in Zakynthos there is a stel

Annexation to Greece

Greece independence from Turkey was the reason of the birth of a radical movement in

Zante and the Ionian Islands joined Greece in 1864 year in which the Greek flag was rai

Modern Era

As the rest of Greece even Zakynthos was subdued to the Italian and German occupatio

After the war the island had another big shock in 1953: an earthquake destroyed the en

Thanks to the help of the government and the goodwill of the citizens the city was slow

Some ancient ruins, wall paintings in the churches of the Byzantine period and ancient

Art and literature started from the 15th Century under the Venetians domination that pe

Literature

Literature origins dated back to the 15th Century when the island poets were popular fo

In the following Century Zakynthos strongly contributed to the Greek literature and art

the modern Greek theatre.

Among the most popular poets of the XIX centuries there are Foscolo, Italian language,
dedicated.

Solomos studied in Italy and wrote poems in Italian, then came back to Zakynthos, his h

literature.

Kalvos and Solomos' mortal remains are at the museum that has been dedicated to them

Painting

The first affects in painting came from Byzantine art.

The first painters dedicate themselves to religious themes representing holy icons in ch

In the 17th Century thanks to Doxaras the painting technique changed into the oil on ca

Another important painter was Koundounis belonging to the Filik Eteria and he painted

Tsakos too is to be remembered for his pictorial quality and precision in the portraits de

In the 19th Century painting partly changed its connotation; it is not only a holy form of

internationally acclaimed painter for his landscapes, portraits and icons that have been

Sculpture

In the 18th Century the art of the silver engraving and of the wooden sculpture develop

G. Bafas was a well known silver engravers and a sample of his works can be admired i

Among the wooden engraver there were the brothers Vlachos who decorated many chu

Architecture

In the city of Zakynthos before the earthquake there were elegant buildings, bourgeois

The Venetian influence favoured the construction of public buildings, roads and bridges

This neo-classic style emerges in the design of some churches too.

With the earthquake and the following fire in 1953 the largest part of the city was destr

The reconstruction is not always close to the original destroyed buildings and it was no

Music and theatre

The use of musical instruments, at the beginning to accompany the military parades, m
 In spite of the Venetian influences (Zakynthos Serenade)

Music in 1815 and in the following years of choirs and mus

It is possible to find the musical tradition both in the eccle

Another important form of art is the theatre both as a mom

At the beginning the representations were held in the nobles parlors and were consider

The two genders that developed with more success were the opera and the so called o

In those works the most common theme was the contrast between the rich and the poo

Folk feasts

During the stormy history of the island and after the numerous invasions that the inhabi

religious folk feasts whose tradition is still alive, were a moment of community and amu

Nowadays there are many folk feasts and tens of towns, small and large, get animated w

Among the most important feasts there are the San Dionisio, the Carnival and the Easte

Saint Dionisios: it is the religious feast for the Saint protector of the island.

It is on August 24 but in the city of Zakynthos the ferment starts a couple of days in adv

Zakynthoscarnival is now very famous all over Greece for being magnificent and very m

The beauty of the carnival goes back to the Venetian time whose habits and importance

The carnival period is now a moment of collective feast of two weeks during which the

Marco with a ritual from the past: the mask funeral.

Easter in Zakynthos, like everywhere else in Greece is a very spiritual moment whose a

the pope with a candle gives life to a chain of candles light that multiply to enlighten th

The two most important moments of Easter in Zakynthos are the lamb roasted in the sq

Modern life
 Nowadays the islanders live on tourism in the Summer mo

The most important agricultural production is olive oil, gra

The olive oil produced in Zante is at the base of its econo

The raisins production on the contrary was better develop

other forms of farming.

Fishing and breeding represent a secondary step in the island economy.

Thanks to tourism a strong local handcraft has been developed concerning handy crafte

stopped.

BYZANTINE MUSEUM OF ZAKYNTHOS

It is in D. Solomos square, the largest and most ch

The museum that for the first time was open to the

frescos of the 15th, 16th and 17th Century.

Two more rooms are dedicated to paintings of the 18th Century and oils on canvas of ar

The special importance of this museum is eventually due to the opportunity that the tou

Greek art.

The museum is open everyday except Monday from 8.30 to 15.00.

For further info it is possible to contact the following telephone number: +30 26950 427

MUSEUM OF SOLOMOS AND KALVOS

 The museum was founded in 1959 by a club of admirers o

real national symbols.

In the museum there are local art handcrafts such as pain

century is very well attended.

There are then many portraits dedicated to the most impo

The museum is open everyday from 9.00 to 14.00. For mor

THE MANSION OF THE ROMAS' FAMILY

This museum consist in the mansion of Alexander Roma that was

A. Roma remains one of the most characteristic and pure persona

The mansion was built in 1660 by the Vice Consul of England in Z

During the period of the "English Protection" (1816-64) the mansio

The mansion was bought by Alexander Roma in 1880. Since then

This house survived to the earthquake of 1953 that destroyed all

Now represents the sole example of the old urban zakynthian architecture.

The large and decorated rooms of the building, the libraries consisting of old and rare e

the way of living of the old zakynthian aristocracy.

The mansion is located in Louka Karer street at number 19 not far from Solomos Square

For more information please call: +30 26950 28381.

CULTURAL AND AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM

Founded in 1998 in the small village of Pigadakia, under th

There you can admire rare works dated back to the 16th C

TOWN HALL LIBRARY

The town hall library is located in a big building in Solomos squ

Thanks to the donation of some people of Zakynthos who gave

In the library it is possible to find rare books concerning the hi

Zakynthos before the calamity happened in 1953.

EXHIBITION CENTRE OF NATIONAL MARINE PARK

The Thematic Exhibition Center of the loggerhead sea tur

the use of multimedia and memorabilia given, give visitors

Its role is not restricted to the study and promotion of Car

island.

The construction of the Thematic Exhibition Center has been funded by the European R
ST. DIONYSIOS CHURCH

This church, the biggest in the city, is

dedicated to the protector of the
island and it is located along the
seashore of Zakynthos.
It was built in 1948 and it resisted the
earthquake in 1953, now its bell tower
is very high and stands out among the
different buildings recognizable as
soon as you enter the port.
Even if it hasnt got any particular
exterior characteristics, when
entering you are impressed by the quantity of frescos, lamp holders
and colours.
There are many monuments to remember distinguished personalities of the past born o

The past has to be remembered and the people of Zakynthos display, especially in the b

Among those there is the statue of the national poet Dionysios So

both sides by two cannons and the stele that remembers the writ

To remember Ugo Foscolo, famous Italian poet born in Zante in 17

It is also possible to see, in the street to him dedicated, the cenot

 Then on the Strani Hill at the back of the city there is an

It is also possible to admire the commemorative stele o

VENETIAN CASTLE

Another building proving the remarkable influence of the V

Almost nothing remains of the ancient building, only the w

In the past where now there are the ruins of the

castle there was the medieval town of Zakynthos which c

earthquake, they risked to fall down and in 1984 thanks to

KABI CROSS

A cement cross of such dimensions to be spotted even at kilome

The cross strikes for its dimensions but it represents and remem

hundred and fifty metres from the sea level.

VENETIAN TOWER
 In order to see the small Venetian Tower you have to reac

anymore and you have to carry on to the promontory wher

The tower is of small dimensions and it is more or less ve

The position is perfect since from here it is possible to vie

After the tower the road carries on but we suggest not to drive down it since in very bad

ARGASI BRIDGE

In Argasi, a town close to Zakynthos, it is possible to see

It is uncommon to admire such a ruin of the past a few kil

SARAKINA HOUSE

Close to the town of Mouzaki, it is possible to visit the rui

classic style, typical of Zakynthos houses before the cata

Only the faade of two floors with the main entrance and

In this moment is possible only to look at it externaly bec

VRYSAKIA AQUEDUCT
 The area around the town of Argasi presents some remain

The aqueduct is reachable by a non asphalted road hidden

The by night extreme activity takes place in the far north part of
the island and precisely at Skinari Cape.
Drive by night following the road that from Agios Nikolaos goes
north, once passed the lighthouse follow the road till you reach an
area near the ruins of an old construction.
You can live the car here and start descending the steps taking
directly to the sea; youll notice that before the steps will end youll
find yourself at the top of a cave dome from
 where you now have to dive!
Diving is very easy there, just a
couple of metres, we suggest to try
it both for the pleasure of a
midnight bath and the sight of the
plankton, that moved by your dive,
will turn into a fluorescent cloud all
around you. Going back to the
rocks is easy since the steps you
climbed before going down to the
sea will take you back but for those
who would like to end the night
with a further thrill, just under the
dive point, there is a gap that if
followed will take you to a chamber into the mountain.

We suggest choosing a full moon night and to take a

torch with you since there are no lights neither on the
steps nor close to the sea; be always very careful!

On the island there are

many non asphalted roads
that take you to unknown
places.
Would you like to spend a
different day? Rent a jeep
and looking at a map start
driving on small paths
north of the island that
will take you to the sea
through numerous hills.
We suggest you a couple
of them Stenitis Bay for
instance is a wonderful
fiord with very calm
waters where you can
meet just the

fisherman boat.
Start from the town of
Maries, at the beginning
the road conditions are
good than it gets really
awful.
A little northern than that
you can take a similar
previous one and takes you to a beach that is very easily reachable.
If you are not very good drivers you have better avoid this kind of adventures, you could get stuck and it is ve

This adventure takes place in the fiord of Porto Limnionas and

since most of the time youll be under the sea level it is necessary
to like very much sea masks and flippers.
As soon as you reach the steps taking to the sea, you can see a
cave of medium dimensions; at this point take a diver torch
(necessary), wear you wet suit
(for the fortunate that have one)
and dive.
Getting closer to the cave youll
notice the water getting colder
and colder and once you reach
the bottom of the cave you
realise why: the caves carries
on !!
The final wall closing the cave is
not complete and if you look
under the sea level youll find
out a net of underwater tunnels
in which water is cold because
it is soft water instead of salted;
if you resolve to carry on you
have to pay a lot of attention
because there is the risk for the
less expert to get lost; in fact
soft water renders the
underwater sight very difficult.
The first part of the
underground river presents
some cavities of air full of
oxygen where you can take
breath but as to the rest of the
tunnel we can not give you any
indication being not yet
explored
Are you crazy?!

How do you think to ski in Zakynthos where there are 40C in the shades in August?

At most you can water ski!

That would be an impossible mission!

Go and take a look at the other adventure that are possible

Korakonissi is a fiord
on the western coast
of the island and gives
its name to the
presence of a small
island with a long
shape, connected to
the mainland by a
huge natural rock
arch.
Located in the south
part of the Porto
Limnionas it is
 reachable only by a
jeep driving along a
rough road that leaves
from the town of
Kiliomeno, the best
suggestion we can
give you is

to take a supply of water since there

are no abodes, petrol stations etc.
from there to the next inhabited area.
The small island creates together with
the mainland a tiny natural fiord rich of
starfish and sea urchins where the
waters have wonderful colours.
If from the part of the island facing the
open sea you swim for 10/15 minutes
to the left you reach a cave wonderful
for its colours and the concretions on
the walls; there you can walk since the
water isnt more than 30 cm deep.
The adventure doesnt consist in
visiting the small cave; your task is to
go up to the top of the natural bridge
and try to dive.
The water there is very deep and there
are no risks of emerging rocks, the
difficult part is that the bridge is 20
metres tall so it is advisable not to
suffer of giddiness and to wear a diving
suit to soften the impact with water

In order to reach this lake you need

a boat or a dinghy.
Leaving from Limni Ker town south
of the island, follow the coast to the
right and pass through the
promontory of Marathia Cape; the
beaches are wonderful and there are
many caves to visit with a boat or
swimming.
The adventure will be to find, among
those cave, the one that is ending in
a small internal lake
If you manage to find this inlet you
have to leave someone taking care
of the dinghy,

go down and walk about 10 metres

inside the cave.
There youll notice that there will be
just water. Without light in this area
the water looks black and doesnt
invite to dive; for the more
courageous that want to swim they
will realize that the lake isnt that
small after all and looking
underwater you can see the sunlight
entering from under the rock making
light games in the water.
Take a torch with you if you want to
see something!!!

Have you seen the movie with

Leonardo Di Caprio The
Beach?
On Pelouzo island, located in
the turtles bay, you wont find
fields of marihuana nor wild
tribes but an unspoiled sea
populated with turtles and fish
droves.
During the Summer period, in
the sea around Pelouzo, it is
forbidden to navigate but if you
have spent Winter in a gym and
you now have a Baywatch
figure you can try and swim to
the beach of Dafni.

We suggest taking a dinghy

with you for possible moments
of dispirited, a bottle of
water and vitamins integrators
since to swim there it will take,
if you are swimming with a
good rhythm, a couple of
hours.
The island is slightly
mountainous with a single
beach (in front of Dafni) that
looks like talcum powder
rather than sand, and there is
an ancient building in ruins at
the end of the small beach.
At the opposite side of the
island there is a cave of
medium dimensions; it is lovely
enough but we suggest saving
energies for the coming back
since the island belongs to the
Marine Park and you can not
spend the night there.
 During a holiday in Zakynthos, tasting the typical dishes of Greece and tra
At mid-day, and in particular, at dinner, the thousands of smells invading th
you for the authenticity of their tastes. The local products such as honey, olive oil, chee
Here below you can read about some of the most popular typical dishes and to aspiring

Starters
The Greek cuisine is so rich in taste and choices to risk finishing a meal with the starte
the last one the most popular of yogurt, cucumbers and garlic.
You can taste meatballs of different kinds with potatoes, zucchini, fish, oregano; fried v
grapevine leaves stuffed with rice.
We suggest also to try the tyropitakia: puffed pastry filled with feta, the Gr

Salads

As a starter or together with the main course you can have a tasty salad.
The Greek salad (horiatiki) consists in wedges of tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers,
There are also the potatoes salad, the lettuce salad or the beans salad.

Meat
Even if we are on an island meat is the locals favourite dish and the recipe with meat ar
characteristic dish of the island.Definitely to try there are also the souvlaki (skewers),
the stifado (calf with onions and tomatoes sauce) and the youvetsi (lamb with pasta).
With minced meat there are the bifteki (a big meatball with onion, parsley, and garlic), t

Fish
The recipes with fish are for sure less than the ones with meat.
 In spite of this during your holidays youll have the opportunity to taste dif

Vegetables
Thanks to the favourable climate, vegetables are used as garnish and as m
zucchini and small tomatoes) and stuffed tomatoes and peppers (the filling consists of r

Cheeses
The Greeks produce a lot of locals cheeses and they also import foreign che
The most common in the restaurants and in the taverns are for sure feta (with
the island: tirokafteri (peppered soft cheese to spread so spicy to be served a

Snacks
If you dont feel like eating in a tavern, you can taste puff pastry or focacce ty
The most common is the tyropita a puff pastry served warm and stuffed with f

Gyros

It is the fantastic sandwich typical of Greece.

It is a sort of rolled piadina stuffed with pork meat, tomatoes, onions, frie

Cakes
In the pastry shops here in Zakynthos you can find cakes for everyone with creams, cho
The ones typical of the place easily recognizable because they have nuts, almonds and
There is also an excellent puff pastry stuffed with cream and covered with icing sugar a

Coffee
To well complete every meal we suggest to order a Greek coffee.
This drink whose preparation is almost a ceremony as to be slowly sipped to allow the c
You can have the coffee without sugar (pikr), with sugar (mtrio) or sweet (glik).

In Zakynthos the taverns are almost always open and the owners very friendly and nice
In many taverns it is possible to assist to local dances accompanied by Greek music su
 Wash the tomatoes and peppers very well and cut a calotte out o
paying attention not to make holes and throw away the seeds.
Put the tomatoes and the peppers in a baking tin.
Put the onion and a olive oil cup in a pan.
Before the onion starts browning add the rice and fry it slightly; i
sauce.
Add to the rice the minced tomatoes and the sauce.
Add salt, pepper and the minced parsley.
Add half cup of water and let it boil with all the ingredients till the liquid dries up.
In every tomato and pepper add half tea spoon sugar, stuff them with rice but not to the
Add a spoon of water, another tea spoon of sugar and cover them with their lids.
Pour into the baking tin a cup of tomato juice and half cup of olive oil, add salt, pepper a

MOUSAKA

Clean, wash and slightly cut the aubergines; salt them and leave
Brawn the minced meat with the oil, onions and a little wine. Add
sauce thicken.
In a pan fry the aubergines.
In order to slice the flan put at the bottom of the backing tin a lay
Put the aubergines over the potatoes and cover them with the gra
After the first layer of aubergines, pour the minced meat and over
Add grated cheese and cover everything with abundant bchamel to form a thick layer.
Cover with grated cheese and put in the oven.

LAMB WITH PASTA (Yiouvetsi)

 Slice the meat, clean it and put it in a terracotta backing tin.
Add salt, pepper and the tomatoes cleaned and passed in the veg
When the lamb is almost ready, pour 4 cups of warm water and a
Add a little more salt and stir.
Let it bake at medium temperature stirring a couple of times. Ser

BAKLAVAS

Mix the minced almonds with cinnamon.

Melt butter and grease the backing tin; spread the puff past
almonds and cinnamon always greasing them with butter.
Divide the filling so that you can use 4 layers of puff pastry
a diamond.
On every piece put in the middle a piece of clove.
Cook for 30 minutes.
Prepare the syrup mixing sugar, water, vanilla and lemon juice, do not make it too thick

For those who love sporty holidays, Zakynthos offers a lot of sporty activit
are a lot of tours by boat or by bus to let the tourist discover the beauty of
For those who would like to try unusual emotions, there are many choices
For those who love diving, there are many diving centres to admire the isla
snorkel.
 Nero Sport ......................

Watersports centre ..........

Luna Fun Park ................

Bowl'm over ....................

Navagio Boat Trips .........

F1 Go Kart ......................

Blue Bird .........................

Zakcars ............................

The Big Blue ...................

Navagio Boat Trips is a family run

business placed in front of the small
lovely harbour of Aghios Nicholaos, in
the North part of Zakynthos island,
and it will offer you an unforgettable
cruise experience.
Zanteisland.com has selected this
business as the best one for those
who wish to visit the famous Navagio
bay and the amazing Blue Caves during their holidays in Zante.
As you will reach the petrol station of Aghios Nicolaos port, go to
the next traditional tavern called Porto where you'll find Katerina
welcoming you.
The boat trip for Navagio beach and the Blue caves starts every
hour with captain Dimitri and his father captain Spiros who will
welcome you on their boat.
This unforgettable tour will takes two hours showing you the wild
coast of Cape Skinari and taking you straight to Navagio bay.

Tour to Shipwreck / Navagio

Tour every hour

Our boats go into the caves

with stops for swimming

Our boat will arrive very close to the sand and a professional ladder
will permit to everybody an easy and safe access to the beach. You
will have time for relax, for visiting the shipwreck and for a nice
swim. After that Dimitri and Spiros will invite you again on the boat
as it's time to visit the stunning Blue Caves.

Most of the organized tours in

Zakynthos island are not able to go
into the Blue caves due to the big
dimensions of their boats.
We are the only one that will drive
you inside the caves to make really
unforgettable this daily experience
and to permit you to have a swim
inside the caves.
The Blue Caves became so amazing for the particular blue colour of
their water and with Dimitri and Spiros you will have the unique
opportunity to admire this phenomenon directly inside the caves.
We recommend you this boat trip as maybe the best in Zakynthos to
visit together the Blue caves and Navagio bay and we also suggest
you to buy some refreshments and snacks at the tavern near the
petrol station as in Navagio beach and during the tour there will not
be snack bar or tourist shops!
Dimitri and his family are waiting for all who wish to try an
unforgettable experience in the wildest area of Zakynthos island.
We promise you a great memory of your holidays in Zante to bring
back home!

NAVAGIO BOAT TRIPS

Photo Gallery
Telephone: +30 26950 31094
Mobile: +30 6947329835
E-mail: How to reach us
captaindimis@hotmail.com
Post your comment
Aghios Nicholaos in the north

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Zanteisland

"ZakCars" is a professional car rental situated in Zakynt

Zakcars rent many types of cars/jeep and offers a delive
Renting a car is the best way to discover the beauty of Z
The staff of ZakCars put experience and professionality
 All the cars are covered by full insurance (excess 300-60
Every driver must be at least 21 years old.
A valid driving licence held for at least 1 year is required
On request baby seats for children up to 3 years old are a
If you wish, it's possible to journey outside Zakynthos wi

We offer many types of cars and jeep:

GROUP A
Hyundai Atos 5 doors with A/C or similar

GROUP B
Kia Picanto 5 doors with A/C or similar

GROUP C
Hyundai Getz 5 doors with A/C or similar

GROUP D
Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio or similar
5 doors with A/C

GROUP E
Suzuki Jeep 4WD Open Top or similar

GROUP F
Opel Zafira, Hyundai Trajet or similar
7 seats with A/C
Send us now a request information to book a car for your holiday in Zakynthos!

Prices:

Car type

Hyundai Atos or similar

Kia Picanto or similar

Hyundai Getz or similar

Hyundai Accent or similar

Suzuki Jeep 4WD or similar

Opel Zafira or similar

You just have to make your choice! There are a lot of possibility to taste traditional dish
In addition to the Greek cuisine, especially in the most tourist towns, there are many re
In this section youll come to know the best restaurant of the island, for quality of food,
"POPOLAROS" Tavern, Live Greek music .........................

Italian Restaurant "LA BRUSCHETTA" ................................

"LITHIES" Tavern ...............................................................

"AKROTIRI" Tavern ............................................................

"PORTO LIMNIONAS" Tavern .............................................

"XIGIA" Tavern ...................................................................

"ANDREAS" Fish Tavern .....................................................

"PILARINOS" Tavern ..........................................................

"DAFNI" Tavern ..................................................................

"MENIR" Restaurant ...........................................................

"KAMINAKI" Restaurant - Bar ............................................

Taverna "VARDIOLA" .........................................................

"SUNSET" Tavern ...............................................................

"SPARTAKOS" Fish Tavern ................................................

"DIACRONIKO" Tavern .......................................................

"KERI" Taverna ..................................................................

Restaurant / tavern Menir is located in the tourist resort o

You are welcome during all day and in the evening to enjo
Menir offers you traditional Greek and Zakynthian dishes a

Near to the beach

Fresh fish every day

Open all the day

Traditional homemade
food
During your holidays in Zakynthos don't miss the opportun
As the night goes on Nikos and his friends with the buzuki
dancing syrtaki.
Come to Menir to eat and enjoy at the same time!

The Kaminaki Restaurant - Bar is located in the mountain

and the Shipwreck.
Kaminaki traditional tavern opened in 1997.
In the kitchen there was the mother of the owner and still
The "Kaminaki" name comes from the name of the area in
household objects such as glasses, plates and cutlery, ge
During the excavations for the construction of the restaur
The restaurant has wooden ceilings and furniture made by
Outside there are niches with columns of the manor house
The Kaminaki restaurant is a famous "Psistari" that is a
Here you can find a truly exceptional kontosouvli (bacon o
We recommend you also to try the chicken in tomato sauc
The restaurant Kaminaki is also a cafe bar for a coffee in
 Vardiola Tavern has been included in zanteisland.com bes

Laganas and Lithakia area.

Our tavern overlooks Laganasbay and is surrounded by a

The tavern is built using a traditional style and natural materials from Zakynthos island

Coming here you will find both an indoor and an outdoor dining area.

The environment combined with a family welcome will permit you to have a relaxing eve

and an unforgettable dinner.

In Vardiola tavern youll find a great variety of Greek food

oil or local sausages.

We strongly recommend you to taste our Skordostoubi that is mainly based on garlic an
Some other dishes that made our restaurant famous are o

Galaktoboureko and Baklav.

Were waiting for you with our warm Greek friendship!

The Sunset tavern is located in the old traditional mounta
Driving up to Keri, you will find Sunset tavern just on your
Zanteisland.com has selected this traditional restaurant a
This local taverna is a panoramic terrace overlooking the
As you will arrive with your car youll see Yannis, the owne

Sunset tavern is really the best place for who loves grille
Here you can taste an unforgettable pork on a spit, the b
As a great alternative to meat is the daily fresh prepared
garden.
The taverna Sunset is well-known also from local people so we su
Yannis and his family are here in Keri village all the summer to of

Spartakos Tavern has been selected by Zanteisland.com

Spartakos restaurant is placed in the heart of Zante tow
In this family-run restaurant, Spartakos, the owner, will w
Spending a night at Spartakos you will find a friendly and
This restaurant will give you the opportunity to taste a large varie
with potatoes and many others dishes.
The large choice of food can satisfy every kind of costumer and w
In fact every morning Spartakos buys the fish directly from the lo
You can choose different combinations of seafood as for example
you into the kitchen to decide which fresh fish you want to eat gr
At Spartakos they speak english and also the list is in english to h
In August we suggest you to book a table not to wait too much!
 Zanteisland.com has selected Diacroniko Tavern like one
Diacroniko restaurant is situated along the main road that
prepare dishes, like tomatoes and nearly all the vegetable

The chicken and the lamb that you will taste here are bred direc
The Diacroniko tavern offers a lot of appetizers like: feta in the o

Among the main plates there are: zakynthian rabbit in white sau
only on demand, grilled lamb.
If you love the meat come to visit us, we wait for you at Diacroni
Diacroniko has also received an award for the quality of the food
Zanteisland.com has selected Keri taverna as it's a gre
Keri taverna represents a great opportunity if you are s
Following the main road to reach Limni Keri, as you arri
Keri taverna is a family run business well known also by
The friendly Greek atmosphere and the stunning view over Lagan
Zakynthos.
This local restaurant in Limni Keri offers a large menu that can sa
Taverna Keri specialities include lobster with spaghetti, rabbit Za
casserole). Together with this local specialities you can also tast
Pastitsio.
We have also a person that prepares pita gyros (like a sandwich w
Keri Taverna is open all the summer for breakfast, lunch and dinn
At Keri Taverna on request we organize also parties, birthdays, b

"KERI" Taverna

Telephone: +30 26950 43756

Web: www.keritaverna.com
E-mail: bourbas@gmail.com

Limni Ker
 The largest concentration of pubs and night clubs takes place in the south a
Those are the most commercial and tourist towns of the island where from
Here night life offers amusements and attractions and is affordable for ever
Here youll get acquainted with the most appreciated pubs and night clubs o

CATACOMVES .......................................................................

LATAS Caf ..........................................................................

PORTOFINO Cocktail Bar ......................................................

PLANET .................................................................................

B Caf Bar .................................................................

TROPIC'S Beach Bar .............................................................

Caf Bar is placed on Laganas beach but far away from the
chaotic centre of the most tourist town of Zakynthos island.
You can find (in latin letters Vrakos) exactly in the middle
between the centre of Laganas and Aghio Sostis islet.
Our caf bar has a great position because it's on the beach but it
was built some meters above the sea level to offer our customers a
wonderful view all over Laganas bay and A. Sostis small island.
 To begin your day in the best way we
invite you to taste a breakfast
served in our amazing balcony only
few steps from the beach.
The sandy beach under our caf bar
is equipped with sunbeds and
umbrellas; you can spend there all
your day and if you need a break
from the sun and you want to relax looking
the panorama or watching television we'll be
happy to serve you a snack with a fresh juice!
In the night the owner Kostas invite you at
to drink a cocktail, prepared by himself, in a romantic
atmosphere made by the soft light of candles, the background
music and the dark sea in front of you.

"BPAO" Caf Bar

Photo Gallery
Telephone: +30
2695051137
How to reach us
Mobile: +30
6973642838
E-mail: kwstasgiatras@hotmail.gr Post your comment
Laganas

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Zanteisland

Blue caves and the north

 This itinerary will bring you to discover the wild part of Za
developed from a tourist point of view. This trip through Z
north-east areas of the island and will permit you to appre
from Makis Gialos bay until Skinari cape and the extreme
Our suggestion is to drive straight to Makris Gialos beach
soon in the morning you will be able to admire better the i
sea.
If youll come back few kilometers from Makris Ghialos in
will reach Xighia beach (you will recognize it immediately
sulphur that reach also the road).
Xigia beach is the ideal place to relax yourselves and to h
sulphureous waters. We advice to divide the morning in tw
first Makris Ghialos, then Xigia beach until lunch time.
In this way we can take you for lunch in one of the best tr
Zante that is very close to Xigia beach and where your me
experience.
After lunch you have to take again your car to return towards north in order to reach Ca
The road that we will cover is really wonderful with the island of Kefalonia in front of us
bigger and with the Zakynthian country side on your right that degrades sweetly until th
Once arrived in Cape Skinari you have to make a photo, Kefalonia is so near that will se

This part of the coast is famous in all Zakynthos for the Blue Caves, that are particular
the sea assumes impressive blue glares.
There are a lot of boat trips that will take you to discover the Blue Caves of Zante, but w
interesting experience.
It's more beautiful to go down towards the sea and to dive in the water in order to disco
and snorkel!
For all those who own their private boat we suggest a trip in this part of coast, from Xig
as one of most evocative areas of Zakynthos island.
For the evening our suggestion is to stop in the tourist town of Alykes, as it is the only o
different solutions both for the dinner and for the night.

Where to eat in the northern area of Zante

XIGIA TAVERN - XIGIA BEACH

Not far from Xigia beach you can find oneof the best traditional restaurants
the name? Xigia Tavern of course!
It is placed just before the beach, above a small panoramic cape.
Xighia Tavern has only a Greek sign, but you can recognize it for the unpaved car parkin
only small building in a panoramic position. In addition to the quality of the food that is
to come here for lunch to appreciate the stunning view that you will have over the bay o
Kefalonia and the coasts of the Peloponnese.

PILARINOS TAVERN - MAKRIS GIALOS BEACH

Pilarinos tavern is placed in the northern part of Zakynthos island, exactly above the am
beach and in a short distance from the famous Blue Caves of Skinari Cape.
Pilarinos tavern extends along a panoramic terrace that offers a wonderful view all over
 the far coasts of Peloponnesus.

Amusements in the northern area of Zante

NAVAGIO BOAT TRIPS - AGHIOS NICHOLAOS

Zanteisland.com has selected this business as the best one for those who wish to visit
and the amazing Blue Caves during their holidays in Zante.
The Blue Caves became so amazing for the particular blue colour of their water and wit
will have the unique opportunity to admire this phenomenon directly inside the caves.

Night life in Alikes area

CATACOMVES PUB - ALYKANAS

For the evening we suggest you to make a visit to the pub "Catacomves" in Alikanas; a b
changed today into a charming cocktail bar.
Just under the Catacomves pub youll find also a stone cellar where to buy traditional w
of Greece and from the island of Zakynthos.

Between Alykes and Tsilivi

You can follow this itinerary in both directions, but we sug

you to start from the tourist village of Alykes; you will disc
some of the most beautiful sandy beaches of Zante island
you will enjoy yourselves in the most tourist places.
You can spend the morning on the fine sandy bay of Alyke
in the smaller beach of Alikanas. Along this part of the co
the water is truly clear, especially in the days without win
and for this reason these beaches has been assigned with
"blue flag" from the European Union.
For your lunch you can choose between many snack bars placed everywhere here, but d
eat too much as were going to suggest you something special for the dinner!
 In the afternoon we take the coast road and we drive in
direction of Tsilivi.
Tsilivi's beach is extremely long and well equipped for any tourist needs, but also betwe
Tsilivi and Alykanas you can find marvellous sandy bay like Amoudi, Psarou and Ampoul
smaller than Tsilivis one but without massive tourism.
In this part of Zakynthos island you will have a lot of possibilities: there are the crystall
bay of Tsilivi with thousand of tourist entertainment on its beach, the local night life, th
restaurants and you can make shopping!
If then you will decide to remain in Tsilivi area for the evening, there are a lot of
opportunities for your dinner and to enjoy the night.

Where to eat in the area between Alikes and Tsilivi

ANDREAS TAVERN - KIPSELI

If you prefer the fish, just drive from Tsilivi to the near area of Kipseli, where you can fin
the "Andreas Tavern".
This traditional restaurant is maybe the best one on the island of Zante to eat fresh fish
Andrea, the owner, goes every morning to fish, and during the evening he will bring you
directly into the kitchen to choose the fish that he will grill for you.

MENIR RESTAURANT - PLANOS / TSILIVI

Menir offers you traditional Greek and Zakynthian dishes as well as famous
international plates.
The nice and friendly environment, high quality and the excellent service w
make this place unforgettable.
DIACRONIKO TAVERN - SKOULIKADO
Diacroniko restaurant is situated along the main road that goes from the ci
Zante towards Alykes area, in the north of the island.
It is famous for the genuine products used to prepare dishes, like all the vegetables tha
taken by the owner directly from the family kitchen garden and the meat from their
breeding.

Shopping in Tsilivi area

ADAMIEION CERAMIC WORKSHOP - MARINEIKA

 The handicraft laboratory "Adamieion" is placed near Tsilivi, in the area of
Marinika.
Here Dionyssia, the owner, works the clay creating splendid traditional gifts
objects for the house. You will have the opportunity to bring back home a
beautiful memory of your vacation to Zante, and above all dont forget to ask the owner
a glass of fresh lemonade!

Amusements in Tsilivi area

LUNA FUN PARK - TSILIVI

The amazing "Luna Fun Park" is placed along the main road of Tsilivi and it is a special
where inside you will find a cocktail bar, a field where to fight with your friends with pai
bullets, a laser war game, crashing cars on the water, a tower where to practice climbin
and inflatable castles for the children. It will be amusing to spend an evening here both
young people and for families with children.

BOWLM OVER - TSILIVI

The second choice that we suggest you is represented by the "Bowl'm Over", in the hea
of Tsilivi. The "Bowl' m Over" is a two floors building. In the terrace floor it accommoda
cocktail bar, many pool tables, fusball tables, air hockey tables, while to the second floo
you will find a second cocktail bar and four bowling playground. Outside of the building
are also elegant sofa with tables surrounded by a charming garden.

Night life in Tsilivi area

PLANET - TSILIVI
At Planet Pub you can try one of the many kinds of draft beer or to drink one of the 120
cocktails made with fresh fruit and high quality ingredients, listening the last hit parade
the summer.
You can also see all the sport events live on our maxi screens and follow your football t
during your holiday or dance in our club!

Rental in Tsilivi area

BLUE BIRD - TSILIVI

We close this section with an information of practical use.
"Blue Bird Rental" is placed in the center of Tsilivi, for who needs to rent a vehicle.
We suggest it because together with a large choice of cars, jeeps, quads, scooters and
motorbikes, it is the most economic that we have found over the island.

Next itinerary
 Zante town

Before coming back home, we want to

bring you with us around the city of Za
suggesting you some precious addres
in order to make shopping.
From the architectural point of view th
earthquake that upset the island in 19
has saved really few buildings, so lets
start from these!
At the end of the seafront there is the
large Solomos square, whose name
derives from a very famous poet of the island.
Next to the square there is San Nicholas of the Mole that is one of the more ancient
churches of the island that still keeps the liturgical ornaments of Saint Dionysios, the is
protector. Little more ahead we can visit San Marco square, a picturesque small square
by the Venetian during their occupation. Here there is the only catholic church of Zante
Near San Marco square we suggest you an interesting visit to the Byzantine museum, to
museum of Solomos and Kalvos, the two most famous poets of Zante island and to the o
house of Roma family.

From San Marco square starts Roma street, a long pedestrian old paved road, full of eve
kind of stores with gifts for any pocket. It will be amusing and relaxing to walk up and d
between several traditional workshops and small shops.
After visiting some cultural places of the town and after some shopping, we want to brin
you to the small jewel of the city of Zante: Bochali.
Come back to your car, then go the end of the city of Zakynthos holding the sea on your
right and take the road that on your left goes up through the city taking you to the highe
village of Bchali.
Bochali is a small village of few inhabitants, placed just above Zakynthos town.
From here there is a stunning view and you can admire in the same time all the city, Arg
 the coasts of the Peloponnese and far away the bay of Lagan
In Bochali you can visit also the ruins of the ancient Venetian
castle that is the old fortification of the town. After the earthquake of 1953 is remained
little, but the pine forest all around is wonderful and the panorama is worth alone the pa
price of the ticket.

Where to eat in Zante town

Near the city of Zante there are many restaurants, but often are too much
tourist; we want to suggest you some of them a little bit hidden and not so
to find but exquisite and known mainly from local inhabitants.
AKROTIRI Tavern - AKROTIRI
Another restaurant that we suggest you is placed in Akrotiri, along the coas
road that from the city of Zante goes to Tsilivi. The place where it is locate
gives the name to the restaurant. "Akrotiri Tavern" offers high quality cuisin
and economic prices. Delicious all the appetizers and exquisite the pork cooked on the

SPARTAKOS Fish Tavern - ZANTE

Spartakos restaurant is placed in the heart of Zante town, just along the promenade wh
all the fishermen use to moor their boats.
Every morning Spartakos buys the fish directly from the local fishermen to be sure to w
on tourists always a great quality of fresh fish.

Pub & Club in Zante area

"LATAS" CAFE' - BOCHALI

Our " Latas" Caf is at the beginning of Bochali town and in front of an incredible panor
all over the city.
You will admire the view ordering an ice cream, a dessert or a drink.
All our sweets are home-made with fresh ingredients; you can find them only in our plac
and you could choose between different kind of cakes, mousse, souffl or creamy swee
PORTOFINO COCKTAIL BAR - ZANTE / KRIONERI
Portofino is well known in Zakynthos island for its romantic location and the amazing
atmosphere that surrounds this place especially during full moon nights.
Portofino cocktail bar is so famous and appreciated both for its elegant and cool style a
for the absolutely high quality of the cocktails.

ITALIAN ICE CREAM SHOP PIERO'S - ZANTE

In addition to the classic Italian flavors you will find flavors that follow the seasonality o
products and special flavors like the famous Kaimaki, produced with the Mastcha of Ch
The ice cream shop uses Italian products focusing on quality and it is open all year roun
except in November.

Shopping in Zante town

 I ZAKYNTHOS - TRADITIONAL SWEET
Very close to Solomos square (in front of the road with many cashpoint
machine) there is Venizelou street, where we advise you to make a visit to
shop called "I Zakynthos".
This is the most ancient workshop in the island for traditional products of Zante, where
will have the opportunity to buy particular wines and traditional sweets.
GOLD M - GOLD AND JEWELS
If you take Roma street from Saint Marco square, you will find the "Gold M" or
"Michalopoulos" on your right, just at the end of the road.
We suggest you this shop because it is the only official retailer in Zante for the most fam
watches and its prices are clearly cheaper than in the other European countries.
Rental in Zante town
ZAKCARS - ZANTE
"ZakCars" is a professional car rental situated in Zakynthos town.
Zakcars rent many types of cars/jeep and offers a delivery service for your car whereve
prefer: airport, port or your accommodation.
It's possible to journey outside Zakynthos with our cars, but you have to ask before our
authorization.

Next itinerary

Vassilikos area

This itinerary begins from the port of Zante, where you ha

take the long and beautiful coastal road that, crossing the
region of Vassilikos, reaches the charming bay of Gerakas
southern part of zakynthos island.
We fast pass the tourist village of Argassi, about which w
speak more after, in order to continue towards south.
For those who love breathtaking panoramas we suggest a
marvellous place that very few persons know. As you have
passed the tourist village of Argasi, the coast road starts
up and youll find on your right a narrow unpaved road. If y
follow this road it will take you up to the mountain to reach to small Skopiotissa church
most ancient in Zante. From here the view is really stunning, you can see all together th
bay of Laganas, the far coast of Peloponnese and the island of Kefalonia.
After this deviation we go on to discover all the peninsula of Vassilikos that is a continu
 of several huge sandy beaches one next to the other. They
perfects to relax under the sun!
To reach them follow the many small streets on the left th
come down towards the sea.
The trip that we like to suggest you includes those that w
think to be some of the most beautiful and particular beac
of the island; Daphni and Gerakas.
You will reach the first one by taking a small and unpaved
on your right just few kilometers after the village of Argas
there is a sign that marks it, but pay attention because it is not so big!
The beach of Dafni is sandy, bathed from the warmest waters and with an amazing view
Laganas bay.

After a swim in this splendid beach, we take back the coastal road and we continue our
towards south, offering you two different possibility... still relax or an amazing enjoying
afternoon!
If you decide for relax, you must follow the coast road until the marvellous beach of
Gerakas, ideal for those who love to lay under the Greek sun and all those who want to
the experience to make a natural mud bath with the clay.
If instead you are interested on an eventful afternoon, you cannot lose the St. Nicholas
beach, where the target is mostly young and its full of people ready to enjoy themselve
For nature lovers, we signal moreover, along the road that bring back to the city of
Zakynthos, the large pine forest, situated near Banana beach.
A beautiful place where to relax completely in contact with the Mediterranean nature.
For the evening we advise you to move towards Argassi where to have dinn
you will not have problem to choose and where you can pass the evening
drinking a cocktail or dancing.

Where to eat in Vassilikos area

LITHIES TAVERN - VASSILIKOS
Lithies Tavern is placed along the main road that brings to Gerakas.
Perfect for the relaxing garden and for the food cooked with their fresh products and the
meat of their breeding.
Also the olive oil and the wine are produced by the owner of the tavern.
You have absolutely to try the red wine, the rabbit with cheese and garlic, our chicken i
sauce and the pork with wine and mushrooms.
 DAFNI TAVERN - DAFNI BEACH
Located right by the sea on Dafni beach, the Taverna Dafni has tables
overlooking the sea and at the same time under the shadows of the trees th
allow you to enjoy your meal with a fresh breeze.
Come to have a dinner with us as we have on the menu fresh fish, if caught daily by Bab
and Dyonisis, fried calamari, grilled octopus,
sardines and fish soup on request.
Shopping in Vassilikos area

HANNE MI'S CERAMIC ART STUDIO - VASSILIKOS

Overtaken the small village of Vassilikos, along the main road, you will notice on your ri
small sign that indicates the ceramics art studio of Hanne Mi. We really suggest you no
miss a visit to handicrafts workshop where this nice Norwegian lady works the clay by
creating objects of art and for daily use.
You will be impressed by her ceramic production among which you can find an ideal gift
bring back home as memory of your stay in Zante.

Amusements in Vassilikos area

WATERSPORTS CENTRE - SAN NICHOLAS BEACH
All those who like to enjoy themselves with crazy entertainment cannot lose St. Nichola
beach. On this beach exists the best and well equipped sport center and water
entertainment of the island, the "Watersports Centre". Here you can play beach volley w
friends, rest in the music beach bar just in front of the sea or to jump into the blue sea a
enjoy the several water games of the sport center.

Southern gulf

This itinerary will bring you to the most tourist and

young areas of Zante island and to some splendid
beaches of the National Marine Park.
Well let you to begin the day from the Porto Koukla
area, close to the area of Lithaki, in order to visit
Laganas and Kalamaki.
Porto Koukla, Laganas and Kalamaki are placed on
next to the other along the same bay, therefore the
is beautiful in the same way in all the three beache
Your choice depends on what youre looking for. Porto Koukla and Kalamaki are relaxing
places.
 Porto Koukla offers a narrow and long beach, located just in front
Marathonissi islet and here you can find privacy and calm also du
the high season.
Kalamaki is more tourist, but also infinitely larger and longer than
previous one.
It is more equipped for tourists and if you walk till the end of the
beach, under the mountain, you can practice integral sun bathing
without problems.
Instead the beach of Laganas is the paradise for those who are searching for chaotic
vacations and beautiful girls. This place is like a summer fun park open day and night. H
in Laganas the beach is full all the day of young people that play aquatic sports and bea
volley, while in the evening people move along the main road of the village.
After the dinner Porto Koukla is very calm, so you can choose between the chaotic and
crazy Laganas or a walk in the more elegant Kalamaki.

Where to eat along the southern gulf

TAVERNA VARDIOLA - PORTO KOUKLA
In the area of Porto Koukla there is one of the best restaurants of the islan
lets take something to write it down.
"Taverna Vardiola" is entirely built with local stones and wood and it offers
good prices the most important Greek and Zakynthian dishes. We suggest y
to taste the Skordostoubi and the rooster cooked in wine sauce.

POPOLAROS TAVERN - LAGANAS

Along the main road that from the city of Zante takes you to Laganas you w
find, shortly before Laganas on your right the sign of the "Popolaros Tavern
This is one of the favourite traditional tavern of local people both for the delicious quali
the food and for the Greek music played live every evening. We suggest you to taste the
Flogeres and the rabbit, both exceptional!

Shopping in the southern gulf

LEVANTINO GIFT SHOP - KALAMAKI

If you choose to make a relaxing walk along the main road of Kalamaki, we suggest you
visit "Levantino gift shop".
Its a two levels building, extremely big, where you can find really every kind of souveni
original, funny, elegant or nice as a memory of your vacation in Zante.

Amusements in the southern gulf

F1 GO KART - KALAMAKI
Formula 1 Go Kart is the only professional racing track on Zakynthos island and it is pla
along the main road that goes from Kalamaki village to Laganas.
 F1 Go Kart is open every day from the first hours in the afternoon till late in
night and if you are a large group of friends dont forget to call them for the
transfer!
CAFE BAR - LAGANAS
You can find (Vrakos) exactly in the middle between the centre of Laganas and A
Sostis islet. It's open day and night and the owner Kostas invite you at to drink a
cocktail, prepared by himself, in a relaxing atmosphere made by the soft light of candle
the background music and the sea in front of you.

TROPIC'S BEACH BAR - PORTO KOUKLA

Tropic's Beach Bar is different, alternative and super enjoyable for all lovers of good mu
great drinks and delicious snacks.
During the day the bar serves drinks and food on the beach and in the night there is a D
that will choose the best music for a crazy experience.

Keri area and Marathonissi

This itinerary will permit you to discover one of the most

evocative places of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos
Limni Ker area is situated in the south-west part of the is
and here there are a lot of things to do and to see, so... do
wake up too late!
From Zante town follow the main road that leads in Lagan
direction and continue straight; after the area of Lithakia
road goes up and gives you a marvellous view over the ba
Limni Ker, then it comes down to arrive directly to the be
Limni Keri is a small village where there are many attract
for the morning we suggest you to take a boat for rent and to go i
complete autonomy to discover the near islet Marathonissi thats
important nestling cove of the loggerhead turtles.
Marathonissi is surrounded by the most clear sea water and offers two different beautif
beaches; one consists on white small rocks and has a large and wide cave; the other is
thin sandy bay, like Carribean!
Then with your boat you can leave this islet in order to pa
Marathia cape to admire the wonderful Keri Caves, where
can enter with your boat.
Instead of this you can simply find a lonely small beach ar
Limni Keris cape where to relax yourselves in a total priv
A daily trip with your own boat will be a truly fascinating
experience.
You will have the opportunity to visit places accessible on
the sea, to dive with your friends into clear waters and to
on beaches that also in August are nearly desert.
After going back with your boat to Limni Keri you can dec
spend the rest of the day in this beach or take the car and go in the secluded beach of C
 Marathia or to have a scuba diving to see the turtles.
Half an hour before the sunset, you can't miss to go up to the old mountain
village of Keri.
This is a picturesque village where the time seems to be stopped in an anc
age and, passed Keri town, the road will lead you to the lighthouse.
Ker's lighthouse is located on a small and waste plateau and at the sunset
hundreds of persons come here every day to admire the most colorful suns
their life.
On your right there is a small path.....just follow it in order to see the
breathtaking bay placed below.

Where to eat in Keri area

ITALIAN RESTAURANT LA BRUSCHETTA - KERI
The Italian restaurant "La Bruschetta" together with the high quality food is also one of
most dressy and romantic restaurant in Zakynthos island. The light background music a
the panorama over the island of Marathonissi will make your dinner really special.
SUNSET TAVERN - KERI
This local taverna is a panoramic terrace overlooking the amazing sunset over Keri cliff
and it is famous in Zante island for its grilled meat specialities. Here you can taste an
unforgettable pork on a spit, the best Kontosouvli in Zakynthos island or delicious lamb
chops.
KERI TAVERNA - LIMNI KERI
The friendly Greek atmosphere and the stunning view over Laganas gulf and Marathonis
island will make your lunch or dinner here a nice memory of your holidays in Zakynthos.
Taverna Keri specialities include lobster with spaghetti, rabbit Zante Style (rabbit from
oven with local cheese and tomato sauce) and beef stifado (Zakynthian beef casserole)

Amusements in Keri area

NERO SPORT DIVING CENTRE - LIMNI KERI

"Nero Sport" is well known all over Zante as an excellent diving centre run by German
professional instructors. When you will come here to Limni Keri area, you cant miss an
amazing diving experience.
For any age and at any level they will bring you to discover the deep blue Ionian sea, its
marine turtles and the marvellous caves around Cape Marathia.
THE BIG BLUE MOTORBOAT RENTALS - LIMNI KERI
Rent a Ranieri motorboat and enjoy Marathonisi, the famous turtle island of Laganas ba
watch and take unforgettable photos of the sea turtles Caretta-caretta. Be the captain
Ranieri motorboat; explore the unique sea caves of Marathonisi Island, the beautiful and
wild west coast full of lonely bays and the famous Keri Caves.

Shipwreck and west coast

 Mostly of the west coast of Zakynthos island is character
from high cliff that fall straight into the sea and from
unforgettable sunsets. There are a pair of spectacular pla
you can reach by car that you can't miss to visit during yo
stay in Zante.
Our daily trip starts from the city of Zante in order to cros
island for its breadth and take you to the mountain village
Aghios Leon.
The way that we suggest you to follow is the road that, be
arriving to Aghios Leon, pass through the villages of
Macherado and Kiliomeno.
In Macherado there is the interesting Eleftheotria monastery, afte
that the road will lead you to Kiliomeno giving you one of the most beautiful panoramas
the day.
Be ready with your camera because the natural environment you will see today will be
incredible!
Once arrived to Aghios Leon you'll find two roads that go down towards the sea and the
lead respective to Porto Roxa and Porto Limnionas.
In these two wonderful and small fjords the sea is extremely clean and you can see up t
infinite the blue of the sea.
Porto Roxa is equipped better for tourist with some deck-chairs placed just over the wa
but Porto Limniona is larger and colorful with evocative sea caves in the vicinities.
We suggest you to visit both of them and to enjoy your time here for all the afternoon
swimming with mask and snorkel.
The emotions are great, but the most marvellous show still has to come.
In the late afternoon go back to your car and drive in direction of Maries and then reach
Anafonitria. This high coastal road is truly unique although it is distant from the sea; it
crosses kilometers of forest and country side.
The rural scene surrounded by an unbelievable peace and quiet will accompany you unt
Anafonitria. Here we suggest you not to buy anything from the several carpets and table
clothes that you will be offered (all made in Taiwan), but dont miss the different spices
the various types of honey that are exceptional.
Passed Anafonitria, the road continues for Volimes but between the two countries you c
visit the St. George Krimnon monastery.
Then take the only road on your left in order to go to admire the Shipwreck.
This road leads you directly to a panoramic and desolated parking.
Here, from a breathtaking iron balcony, you will be able to see and to photograph what
considered one of the 30 most beautiful beaches over the world.
If you can program very well your time and youre able to arrive here for the sunset time
will be something youll never forget!
The beach of Navagio is possible to be reached only by the sea from Porto Vromi, but of
the boats do not leave for the bad conditions of the sea.
For those who are interested, we suggest therefore to ask to the harbour-office and how
to arrive soon in the morning in Porto Vromi.
We suggest you also a great alternative choice to Navagio for a marvellous sunset.
 You just have to reach the mountain village of Kampi. Here straight above t
sea you will find a great cross that reminds all the people died during the w
The view over the monk seal bay is really stunning and you can admire the
mountain that goes down into the blue Ionian sea.

Where to eat along the west coast

PORTO LIMNIONAS TAVERN - AGHIOS LEON
Along the itinerary we have just described, you really cant miss a break,
especially for lunch, in this traditional restaurant!
"Porto Limnionas Tavern" is a familiar restaurant always open both for lunc
and dinner without afternoon closing.
Having your meal served under the pine trees with Porto Limniona bay placed just in fro
you will be an experience youll tell to your friends.
Truly exquisite the squids cooked on BBQ and the zucchini meatballs!

KAMINAKI RESTAURANT - BAR - ANO VOLIMES

The Kaminaki Restaurant - Bar is located in the mountain village of Ano Volimes, in the
north of Zakynthos island and in a short distance from some of the most picturesque pl
of the island like the Blue Caves and the Shipwreck.
Here you can find a truly exceptional kontosouvli (bacon or pork leg rolled up around a s
and stuffed with tomatoes, peppers and spices).

Shopping along the west coast

SIMPLY GREEK - TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS

Simply Greek is placed in the small lovely square of Anafonitria.
We decided to suggest you Simply Greek shop as its a family run business and most of
traditional products you will find here are collected and realised by this family during th
winter.
Spices, olive oil, wine and honey of our production and more...

English Greek
Polite expressions Ekfrasses ap evynia
Yes N
No O`khi
Thank you Efharist
Don't mention it Parakal
Sorry Sighnmi
Good morning Kalimra
Good afternoon Kalispra
Good night Kalinkta
Hello Yi sas
Nice to meet you! Kro pol
How are you? Ti knis?
How are you? Ti knete?
Fine and you? Kal, es ?
Useful adjectives Eptheto chrssimo
Open Anikts
Closed Klists
Good Kals
Bad Kaks
Big Meghlos
Small Mikrs
Long Makr
Short Konts
Narrow Stens
Heavy Vars
Expensive Akrivs
Useful nouns Onoma chrssimo
Left Arister
Right Deksi
Straight Katefthan
Husband A`ndras
Wife Yneka
Mother Mitra
Father Patras
Son Yis
Brother Aderfs
Sister Aderf
Morning Pro
Afternoon Apyevma
Evening Vrdhi
Night Nkhta
Yesterday Khths
Today Smera
Tomorrow A`vrio
Bank Trpeza
Canoe Kan
Holiday Dhiakops
Nothing else Tpote lo
Radio Rdhio
Sailing boat Vrka m pani
Shop Magaz
Swimming pool Pisna
Telephone Tilfono
Television Tilerasi
Too Pol
Watch Roli
With M
Without Khors
At restaurant St estiatrio
Apple Mlo
Aubergines Melitznas
Baked St frno
Banana Banna
Beef Moskri
Beer Bra
Bitter Pikrs
Boiled T vrast
Bottle Bukla
Bread Psom
Breakfast Pryevma
Butter Votiro
Cheese Tir
Chicken Kotpulo
Coffee Caf
Cold Kro
Courgettes Kolokithkia
Cucumber Angri
Eggs with bacon Avgh m bikon
Fish Psria
Fork Pirni
Free Elethero
Fried T tighanit
Garlic Skrdho
Grape Staflia
Grilled St skhra
Ham Zambn
Honey Mli
Hot Zest
Ice cream Pagot
Knife Machri
Lamb Arn
Lemon Lemni
Lettuce Marli
List Katlogho
Lobster Astaks
Lunch Yvma
Meat Kras
Melon Pepni
Milk Ghla
Mushrooms Manitria
Napkins Petzta
Octopus Khtapdhi
Oil Ldhi
Olives Elis
Onion Kremdhi
Orange Portokli
Orange juice Portokaldha
Peppers Piperes
Pineapple Anans
Plate Pito
Pork Kirins
Potatoes Pattes
Rabbit Kunli
Roasted T psit
Salad Saltes
Salt Alti
Shrimps Ghardhes
Spoon Kutli
Squid Kalamarkia
Starters Orektik
Steak Brizla
Strawberry Frula
Stuffed T yemist
Sugar Zchari
Supper Dhpno
Sweet Glikh
Swordfish Ksifas
Table Trapzi
Tea Tsi
Tomatoes Domtes
Tuna fish Tnos
Vinegar Ksdhi
Waiter Garsn
Water Ner
Watermelon Karpzi
Wine Kras
Is this table free? Ine elfthero aft to trapzi ?
I'd like a table for two Th thela na trapzi yi dho
Can I have the list please? Bor n kho tn katlogho
A glass of water, please Ena potri ner, parakal
Can I have the bill? Bor n kho t loghariasm?
In hotel St ksenodhokho
Bathroom Bnio
Bed Krevti
Booking Krtisi
Floor O`rofos
Garden Kpo
Key Kldi
Kitchen Kuzhna
Room Dhomtio
Shower Ds
I'd like to have a single/double Th thela na mono/dhipl
room with... dhomtio m...
In ship, airplane and bus St plo, aeroplno, leoforo
Airport Aerodhrmio
Harbour Limni
Luggage Aposkves
Passport Dhiavatiron
Seat Kthisma
Station Stsi / stathms
Ticket Isitrio
What time does it leave? T ra fvyi?
What time does it arrive? Pte fthni ?
In an emergency Se perptosi ktaktis anngis
Doctor Yiatr
Fire Foti
Help Vothia
Hospital Nosokomo
I get lost Khthika
Police Astinoma
Soon Ghrghora
Stop Stamatste
Thief Klftis
Numbers Arithm
1 E`na
2 Dho
3 Tra
4 Tssera
5 Pnte
6 E`ksi
7 Eft
8 Okt
9 Eni
10 Dhka
11 E`ndheka
12 Dhdheka
13 Dhekatra
14 Dhekatssera
15 Dhekapnte
16 Dhekaksi
17 Dhekaeft
18 Dhekaokt
19 Dhekaeni
20 I`kosi
21 I`kosi na
30 Trinta
40 Sarnta
50 Pennta
60 Eksnta
70 Evdhomnta
80 Oghdhnta
90 Enennta
100 Ekat
200 Dhiaksia
300 Triaksia
400 Tetraksia
500 Pentaksia
600 Eksaksia
700 Eptaksia
800 Oktaksia
900 Eniaksia
1000 Khlia
Colours Chrma
Black Mvro
Blue Bl
Brown Kaf
Green Prsino
Orange Portokhli
Red Kkino
Rose Roz
White A`spro
Yellow Ktrino
Body Sma anthrpino
Ankle Ktsi
Arm Brtso
Back Plti
Bone Kkalo
Chest Stthos
Ear Aft
Elbow Agnas
Eye Mti
Foot Pdhi
Heart Kardhi
Mouth Stma
Neck Lems
Shoulder O`mos
Skin Dhrma
Stomach Stomkhi
Tongue Ghlsa
I need a doctor Tha tela na yatr
I'm ill Ime rostos
I'm cold Ekho kriolyima
I'm allergic with... Ime alerghiks st ...
I' ve a stomachache Ekho pno st stomkhi
I' ve an headache Ekho ponokfalo
A bee stings me M tsmbise ma sfka
Sunstroke Ilasi
Days Imres
Monday Dheftra
Tuesday Trti
Wednesday Tetrti
Thursday Pmpti
Friday Paraskev
Saturday Svato
Sunday Kiriak
Questions Ertissi
Can...? Bor...?
Where is...? Pu ne...?
Have you got...? E`khete...?
Is there...? Iprkhi...?
How much...? Psso...?
When...? Pte...?
How..? Ps...?
Useful sentences Frssi chrssimo
Can I help you? Bor na sa voithso?
Can you help me? Borte na mas voithso?
Have you got cigarettes? E`khete tsigra?
This is my friend Adh ne o filos mu
My name is... M lene...
It doesn't matter Dhn pirzi
Welcome to Zante Klos rthate sti Zakynthos!
How much per hour/day? Psso kni tin ra/mra?
How long does it take? Ya pses res kintseos?
I like... Mu arsi
Bor n kho ma tsnda,
Could I have a bag, please?
parakal?
Is broken Ine spasmnos
Want, would Thelo, ta ithela
It's very beautiful Ine pol ora
What time is it? Ti ra ne?
I don't understand you Dhn katalavno
Do you speak english? Milte anglik?
I'm... Egh ime o ...
It's very hot Kni pol zsti
It's cold Kni kro
Where is the toilette? P ne i tualta?
Wait a minute Perimne ena lept
How can I go to... Ps na po sto...
This is for you Aft ne yi ss
Where do you come from? Ap p ste
How can I say in english...? Ps t lte sta anglik... ?
I don't know Dhn xro
So and so Etsi k tsi
End Tlos