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Vacation on the island Zakinthos
Zakynthos, also known by its Italian name Zante, is one of the most iconic islands in the Ionian Sea. Known for its turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs, it strikes a balance between vibrant nightlife and serene, untouched nature.
A Glimpse into History
Zakynthos has a "noble" history compared to much of Greece. Because it was under Venetian rule for centuries (1484–1797), the island escaped Ottoman occupation. This created a unique blend of Greek tradition and Italian elegance.
The Venetian Influence: You’ll see this in the architecture and hear it in the local dialect. The Venetians called the island "Il fiore di Levante" (The Flower of the East).
The 1953 Earthquake: A devastating earthquake destroyed much of the historic Zakynthos Town. However, the locals rebuilt it with a commitment to preserving the original Venetian style.
Typical Foods: A Taste of the Ionian
The local cuisine is rich, garlicky, and uses plenty of olive oil and local ladotyri cheese.
Sartsa A beef stew with tomatoes, garlic, and plenty of local ladotyri cheese.
Skordostoumbi Eggplants sautéed with a massive amount of garlic and vinegar.
Mandolato The island's signature sweet: a nougat made with honey, egg whites, and almonds.
Frigania A traditional dessert consisting of rusk soaked in syrup, topped with custard and whipped cream.
Activities & Nature
Zakynthos is home to some of the most photographed spots in the world.
Top Natural Wonders
Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach: Famed for the rusted MV Panagiotis sitting on white sands, surrounded by 200m tall cliffs.
The Blue Caves: Sea caves where the light reflects off the water to create an ethereal neon-blue glow on the cave walls.
Caretta Caretta Turtles: The Gulf of Laganas is a protected nesting ground for these endangered Loggerhead turtles.
Things to Do
Snorkeling: Head to the Keri Caves or Marathonisi (Turtle Island) for crystal clear water.
Hiking: Walk up to the Bochali Hill at sunset for a panoramic view of the harbor.
Wine Tasting: Visit local estates like Art & Wine or Solomos to try the local "Verdea" wine.
Shops & Festivals
Shopping: For authentic souvenirs, look for hand-woven rugs and lace in the mountain village of Volimes. In Zakynthos Town, "Alexandrou Roma" street is the place for leather goods and local delicacies like honey and olive oil.
Festivals (Panigiria):
Saint Dionysios (August 24th): The island's patron saint is celebrated with a massive procession and fireworks.
Carnival: Zakynthos hosts one of the most famous Carnivals in Greece, featuring the "Giostra" (a medieval-style tournament).
Quick Tips
Transport: Renting a car or ATV is highly recommended, as the best beaches and sunset spots are tucked away in the mountainous north.
Respect the Turtles: If you visit the southern beaches, follow the rules regarding umbrellas and lights to protect the nesting sites.
A Glimpse into History
Zakynthos has a "noble" history compared to much of Greece. Because it was under Venetian rule for centuries (1484–1797), the island escaped Ottoman occupation. This created a unique blend of Greek tradition and Italian elegance.
The Venetian Influence: You’ll see this in the architecture and hear it in the local dialect. The Venetians called the island "Il fiore di Levante" (The Flower of the East).
The 1953 Earthquake: A devastating earthquake destroyed much of the historic Zakynthos Town. However, the locals rebuilt it with a commitment to preserving the original Venetian style.
Typical Foods: A Taste of the Ionian
The local cuisine is rich, garlicky, and uses plenty of olive oil and local ladotyri cheese.
Sartsa A beef stew with tomatoes, garlic, and plenty of local ladotyri cheese.
Skordostoumbi Eggplants sautéed with a massive amount of garlic and vinegar.
Mandolato The island's signature sweet: a nougat made with honey, egg whites, and almonds.
Frigania A traditional dessert consisting of rusk soaked in syrup, topped with custard and whipped cream.
Activities & Nature
Zakynthos is home to some of the most photographed spots in the world.
Top Natural Wonders
Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach: Famed for the rusted MV Panagiotis sitting on white sands, surrounded by 200m tall cliffs.
The Blue Caves: Sea caves where the light reflects off the water to create an ethereal neon-blue glow on the cave walls.
Caretta Caretta Turtles: The Gulf of Laganas is a protected nesting ground for these endangered Loggerhead turtles.
Things to Do
Snorkeling: Head to the Keri Caves or Marathonisi (Turtle Island) for crystal clear water.
Hiking: Walk up to the Bochali Hill at sunset for a panoramic view of the harbor.
Wine Tasting: Visit local estates like Art & Wine or Solomos to try the local "Verdea" wine.
Shops & Festivals
Shopping: For authentic souvenirs, look for hand-woven rugs and lace in the mountain village of Volimes. In Zakynthos Town, "Alexandrou Roma" street is the place for leather goods and local delicacies like honey and olive oil.
Festivals (Panigiria):
Saint Dionysios (August 24th): The island's patron saint is celebrated with a massive procession and fireworks.
Carnival: Zakynthos hosts one of the most famous Carnivals in Greece, featuring the "Giostra" (a medieval-style tournament).
Quick Tips
Transport: Renting a car or ATV is highly recommended, as the best beaches and sunset spots are tucked away in the mountainous north.
Respect the Turtles: If you visit the southern beaches, follow the rules regarding umbrellas and lights to protect the nesting sites.
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