Zakynthos: The Flower of the Levant and the Neon Blue Sea
Zakynthos (Zante) is an island of dramatic contrasts, where limestone cliffs plunge into the most vibrant turquoise water in the Mediterranean. Known to the Venetians as ‘Il Fiore di Levante’ (The Flower of the Levant), the island is a paradise of biodiversity, home to the endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtle. In 2026, Zakynthos remains a world-class destination, balancing its famous party reputation in the south with the wild, sophisticated beauty of its northern and western coasts. From the iconic Navagio Shipwreck to the mysterious Blue Caves, Zakynthos is an island that demands to be explored both by land and sea.
Things to know about Zakynthos
Geographically, Zakynthos is the southernmost of the main Ionian islands. Historically, it was a major cultural center under Venetian rule, producing great poets like Dionysios Solomos. An ideal trip length is 6-7 days. It is famous for Shipwreck Beach, the Blue Caves, and being one of the primary nesting grounds for loggerhead turtles in Europe. The island is also known for its ‘Cantades’ (traditional serenades) and its rich production of olive oil and currants.
Top attractions in Zakynthos
Navagio Beach (The Shipwreck)
Perhaps the most photographed beach in the world, Navagio features the rusted remains of a freight ship on a bed of white pebbles, surrounded by 200-meter cliffs. While access to the sand is often restricted for safety, the view from the clifftop platform above is a breathtaking experience that captures the true scale of the Ionian’s beauty.
The Blue Caves
Located on the northern tip of the island near Cape Skinari, these natural arches and caves are world-famous for the way the light reflects off the limestone, turning everything underwater into a glowing shade of neon blue. Small boats can navigate deep into the caves, where the water is exceptionally clear.
Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
Located in the Bay of Laganas, this uninhabited islet is shaped like a turtle and serves as a vital nesting site for the Caretta-Caretta. It features two beautiful beaches: one sandy for the turtles and one pebbly for snorkeling through sea caves. It is a protected area within the National Marine Park.
Keri Caves and Mizithres
On the southwestern coast, the Keri Caves offer a wilder alternative to the Blue Caves. Nearby, the Mizithres—two massive white rocks rising from the sea—create a landscape that rivals the Amalfi coast. The sunset view from the Keri Lighthouse above these rocks is the best on the island.
Zakynthos Town (Zante)
Rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake, the capital retains its Venetian charm through its grand squares like Agios Markos and Dionysios Solomos. The waterfront is lined with neoclassical buildings, and the Church of Saint Dionysios, the island’s patron, is a masterpiece of ecclesiastical art.
Bochali Hill
Located just above Zakynthos Town, Bochali offers the most iconic view of the harbor. It is a quiet, aristocratic neighborhood with small cafes and the ruins of a Venetian castle. Sitting here at dusk, watching the town lights come on, is a quintessential Zante moment.
Porto Limnionas
This is not a traditional beach but a deep, fjord-like bay with emerald water. It is one of the most hidden and beautiful spots on the island, perfect for diving from the rocks into the deep sea and exploring the underwater caves.
The Byzantine Museum
Located in Solomos Square, this museum houses a priceless collection of hagiographies and wood-carved iconostases rescued from the island’s churches after the 1953 earthquake. It provides a deep look into the ‘Ionian School’ of art.
Gerakas Beach
The southernmost tip of the island, Gerakas is a long sandy peninsula and a major turtle nesting site. Because of its protected status, there are no bars or loud music, making it the most peaceful and naturally beautiful sandy beach on the island.
Exo Chora and the Ancient Olive Tree
In the traditional mountain village of Exo Chora, you can find an olive tree estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The village itself is one of the few that survived the earthquake, offering a glimpse into the authentic, rural architecture of old Zakynthos.
Island-hopping from Zakynthos
Zakynthos is connected to the mainland via the port of Kyllini (1 hour). Daily ferries also link Zakynthos to Kefalonia (Pessada to Agios Nikolaos Skinari) taking about 1 hour. During summer, there are seasonal high-speed connections to Italy and the other Ionian islands. Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) serves daily flights to Athens and numerous European cities.
