There are many things to do on Zakynthos as the island is largely developed as a tourist destination. In Zakynthos, diving is a popular activity and there are many diving centers in the tourist resorts. Courses are offered at these centers, as well as dive trips to uninhabited islets and interesting reefs.
There are water sports facilities and fun games available on Zakynthos beaches such as Laganas, Tsilivi, Kalamaki and others. In addition, hiking is possible in the countryside. There are few marked hiking trails, but old footpaths lead to mountainous villages, monasteries, and Medieval towers.
Below are some of the best things to do in Zakynthos, but you can find more in the following sections.
Best Things to do in Zakynthos
Blue Caves
One of the natural highlights of Zakynthos are the Blue Caves. The beautiful blue-tones of the water make taking a boat tour into the caves an unforgettable experience.
There is a choice of private tours on smaller boats that can enter the smaller, more secluded caves or public tours on larger boats. A lot of the tours depart from Makris Gialos Beach.
Navagio Beach (Shipwreck)
One of the most famous shipwrecks in the world ended up at the Navagio Beach in the 1980s, the MV Panagiotis. Since then, it has become one of the most popular beaches in Greece, and visiting this location is one of the most popular things to do in Zakynthos.
In addition to the shipwreck, “The Shipwreck Beach” offers beautiful scenery and incredible views. Despite its white cliffs and turquoise water, the beach is very imposing.
The fact that this beach is one of the most photographed spots in all of Greece is no surprise. The beach is easily accessible by boat. The best places to hire boats are Porto Vromi Bay and Volimes.
Marathonisi
Marathonisi, a turtle island, is another maritime highlight of Zakynthos. A short boat trip (1-2 km) is required to reach it across the beach from Keri. This area is home to many endangered sea turtles (of the species Caretta Caretta).
During the busy summer season, they reproduce, which means that visitors should be careful not to disturb the turtles. As a result, visitors are only allowed to stay within the first five meters of the beach and cannot explore the island.
As a result of these protective laws, Marathonisi offers beautiful untouched scenery. And even though you cannot leave the beach, you can still enjoy the scenic natural beauty from afar.
Anafonitria Monastery
The Anafonitria Monastery is a Byzantine church that attracts visitors with its charming atmosphere. A well-kept garden and graveyard are also found at the monastery.
There are relatively few buildings here, but the main church, a three-aisled basilica, makes up for it. The church’s frescoes are especially impressive.
Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery
You can see the sea and kilometers of coastline from the ruins of the Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery.. The monastery’s hilltop location provides breathtaking views.
Even though there is a small road that leads to the monastery, getting here can still be challenging due to the road’s small size and unpaved surface. Hiking up to Panagia Skopiotissa is the best way to get there. It’s a beautiful walk.
Gerakas Beach
Gerakas is described as one of the most beautiful beaches on Zakynthos, and it is indeed one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The beach is located in the southeast corner of the island and is very wide.
There is plenty of room for visitors. An impressive sight is the white and brown colored cliffs and the green hills surrounding the beach. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent.
Please do not disturb the sea turtles that live here. Children can play in the water at Gerakas Beach because the water is shallow.
Aristeon Olive Press & Museum
Founded in 1850, the ecological Aristeon Olive Press has a rich tradition and history of oil production. A small museum offers an interesting collection of tools such as the oil presses that were once in use.
The adjacent shop features a wide selection of olive oils, including organic oils and lemon-flavored oils. We invite our guests to taste the olive oil with homemade bread
Visitors of Aristeon Olive Press & Museum can also purchase olive soap, a wonderful souvenir or gift for friends and family. Aristeon Olive Press & Museum is a wonderful place to visit in Zakynthos for a local experience.
Tsilivi Waterpark
There are a variety of water slides, pools, water play areas, and even a pirate ship at Tsilivi Waterpark in Zakynthos, one of the most fun attractions in the island.
The facilities are well-maintained, lifeguards are on duty, your safety is guaranteed, and there is a restaurant on site in case you get hungry during your visit. The waterpark offers free sunbeds that can be used for relaxation, too.
When you visit Zakynthos with children, you should visit the waterpark. You can embrace your inner child or simply let your children play with other kids while you relax in the sun.
Porto Limnionas Beach
A winding road leads to the beach, which is the only way to reach it by land. The beach is located on the western coast of Zykantos and is surrounded by steep hills and cliffs.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Porto Limnionas area, which is almost entirely undeveloped except for a beach tavern
The water here gleams with turquoise color, and visitors can rent sunbeds but cannot bring their own food and drinks.
Agios Dionysios Church
The largest church and religious highlight of the island, Agios Dionysios, features a remarkable bell tower which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zakynthos.
The church contains the remains of Agios Dionysios, who is regarded as a saint of forgiveness for hiding the killer of his brother. The remains of Agios Dionysios are still intact.
Snorkel with Turtles
Turtle spotting trips are organized by several local travel agencies. On these unique boat trips, visitors can swim with and snorkel around Caretta Caretta turtles.
The Turtle Island and the Keri Caves are the most popular sites for this. Among those is the Nefis Travel Zakynthos boat, which offers eco-friendly excursions.
This tour company works closely with ARCHELON, a Sea Turtle Protection Society, so you can rest assured that your trip won’t harm the animals in any way.
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