Zakynthos is the best island in Greece. Hotel infrastructure Zakynthos. Boats and ferries
Island Zakynthos gives its guests inexpressible memories and impressions. The coexistence of mountains and the purest azure sea, sandy beaches and pine forest captivates the hearts of tourists once and for all. Zakynthos is the capital nome Zakynthos, whose shores are washed ionian sea.
According to legend, the inhabitants of Zakynthos fought in the war with Troy on the side of Odysseus. For a long time, the island of Zakynthos was under Greek influence, but at the end of the 1st millennium BC, it was captured by the Roman legions. From that moment on, the Romans began to use the rich natural resources islands, and profitable geographic location. And so it continued until the 5th century. n. e., when power over the island passed to Byzantium. From that moment on, for the island, such transfers of power, seizures of territory have become quite commonplace. The island was constantly attacked by barbarians and pirates. In the XV century. Venice owned the island, in the XVII-XVIII centuries. there were battles between the Turks and the French for the right to dominate. In the end, France won, but she later ceded the island to Britain. And only by 1864 did Zakynthos officially become part of Greece.
Climate and weather
The resort reigns soft mediterranean climate. average temperature summer in Zakynthos is +27 °С. Even in August it is dry and a little cool here. In general, the climate of Zakynthos is favorable for recreation all year round. For 12 months, the island receives a decent amount of rainfall, and the number sunny days here is great. That is why Zakynthos is literally buried in greenery.
Nature
Nature trails throughout the island of Zakynthos are much more popular than historical sightseeing. So, if you are on this island, be sure to get to bays of navajo. You will not see such a luxurious picture in any movie! Right in the middle of a picturesque sandy beach, a pirate ship has been lying since the last century.
Do not forget to include one more item in your trip - grottoes of the Blue Caves. The rays of the sun are reflected in sea water, jump on the arches of the grottoes and give them a sky-blue color.
Also worth a look at Zakynthos beach, which stretches along the coast of the Ionian Sea for 14 km. A real work of art will appear before you: stunning caves and grottoes, white rocks, clear blue water ... It is impossible not to admire this.
Attractions
National Marine park-reserve with its typical Mediterranean ecosystem, it is the pride of all Zakynthos. It was created in order to preserve the natural diversity of the island. The park includes several beaches, each of which has its own distinguishing feature. For example, Gulf of Langas unique in that the rarest giant tortoises caretta caretta lay their eggs there.
The island is also rich in man-made sights; it delights tourists with its aristocratic sophistication, luxurious palaces and beautiful churches. Majestically rises above the sea Venetian fortress is the symbol of Zakynthos. In the center of the capital of the island are:
- Church of St. George;
- Byzantine Museum Zakynthos;
- Church of St. Nicholas;
- Library.
Nutrition
Fans of Greek cuisine will certainly appreciate the restaurants of Zakynthos. But I would like to immediately note that the local establishments are not limited to national cuisine. A bunch of local restaurants, cafes and taverns also offer European, Chinese and Indian dishes. The best establishments with traditional Greek cuisine can rightly be called:
- Akrotiri;
- Patari;
- Poseidon;
- Hermione.
A fish restaurants Popolaros And Andreas immensely delight visitors with live Greek music. Excellent seafood dishes can be tasted at the restaurant Komis Fish Tavern. Guests are welcome here until late at night and, in addition to excellent cuisine, they offer an interesting entertainment program.
Accommodation
Hotel Captain's Commodore 3* , which is in the center of Zakynthos, perfect for families, couples and young people. On sandy shore sea located hotel Zante Maris 4* , and in the suburbs Lagana next to the protected forest and the famous "turtle beach" rises the hotel Ilaria 3*.
Entertainment and recreation
On the beaches of Zakynthos you will be able to show your skills in various types sports: diving, sailing, tennis, cycling, etc.
On the coast of Zakynthos, an annual music Festival Ionio Festival of Classical Music which has been running since 2008. The hottest months, July and August, are chosen as the time of its holding, and the open theater is the venue. Dermatousa standing on a mountain and surrounded by cypresses. Other music and folklore festivals often take place here.
And young people consider the most popular clubs in Zakynthos Rescue in Lagan, and barrage And Factory in Zakynthos.
Purchases
Most best shopping on the island - naturally in the capital. In Zakynthos you will not find huge shopping centers with hundreds of shops, boutiques and cafes. Local shopping has its own characteristics. Among the most popular purchases among tourists in Zakynthos are cosmetics and perfumes, handmade soap, sweets, olive oil and jewelry by local craftsmen.
The main shops and shops are located on Alexandra Roma Street. Jewelry stores are closer to St. Mark's Square. Here you will find famous brands and products of local jewelers. Many tourists prefer the second option. It is better to buy cosmetics in pharmacies.
Transport
The airport is located 4 km from the capital. There are daily flights between Zakynthos and Athens. Greek port of Killini and Zakynthos connects maritime traffic. In the capital public transport represented by buses and taxis.
Connection
Many hotels in Zakynthos provide their guests with Wi-Fi Internet access. When choosing a hotel, pay attention to this parameter.
It is better to call from street telephone boxes using payment cards. You can buy them at newsstands. Calls from the hotel will cost more. Also, keep in mind that from 8 pm to 7 am is a grace period when calls are 30-40% cheaper.
You can always stay in touch with the help of roaming connection. More budget option will use mobile communications local operator. It is very easy to buy a SIM card and a recharge card in the city. The seller will help you with the choice tariff plan and replenishment of the account.
Safety
The beaches of Zakynthos are impeccably clean, and are also considered the safest for families with children.
When walking around the city, make sure that your bag is closed and valuables lying in it do not tease pickpockets.
Real estate
Real estate on any Greek island will cost an order of magnitude higher than a similar option on the mainland. The small areas of the islands ensure the maximum proximity of real estate to the sea. This characteristic of Greek real estate attracts more and more buyers. Zakynthos housing is also prestigious, but unlike other islands, there are much more available offers here.
The route of almost all excursions includes a visit to the picturesque rock arches located in the northern point islands. Despite the huge temptation to swim in this luxurious area ionian sea, tourists are in no hurry to do this, because the water temperature there is +14-15 °С.
By phone 166 you can call an ambulance. Tourist police phone number 171 .
Greece, the islands, Zakynthos... These words give rise to memories of snow-white houses by the sea, the smell of herbs, endless sun over your head. An amazing region, rich in thousands of years of history, attracts tourists from the northern countries who are tired of city traffic jams.
Shard of history
The Greek island, colloquially called Zakynthos (the scientific version is Zakynthos), is the southernmost "shard" of the Ionian archipelago. Despite the similarity with other regions of Hellas, it has a zest, a soul that attracts hundreds of thousands of guests every year. It is not for nothing that the phrase of local tour operators is the following phrase: “The island of Zakynthos - unique holiday in Greece".
The name Zakynthos comes from the name of the mythological son of Dardanus, king of Arcadia. According to Homer, the island was the domain of the legendary Odysseus. In the Middle Ages, the territory was ruled alternately by Genoa and Venice. From 1800-1807 the region was part of the Republic of the Seven Islands. It was in Zakynthos that Dionysios Solomos, the author of Ode to Freedom, and the poet Andreas Kalvos, was born.
Sandy beaches, rocks and coves
The island of Zakynthos (Greece) has a special charm. The beaches frame almost the entire east coast making it soft and fluffy. In the western, most mountainous part, it remains untouched and little known - a territory for true pioneers who are alien to the beach philosophy of relaxation. This land is characterized by steep cliffs that descend to the sea with white walls. The fertile center of the island is covered with huge olive-citrus groves and vineyards.
Northern regions with bad roads and "wild" mountains, as well as the central fertile plains and hills have escaped the invasion of mass tourism. The southeast, by contrast, is dominated by resorts, beaches, and commercialized holiday crowds.
nature reserve
The most recognizable place is Navagio Beach. The island of Zakynthos (Greece) is one of the rare territories where turtles of the Caretta genus lay their eggs. Caretta (aka loggerhead) has become a symbol of the island. Turtles were chosen for laying southern bays, these places have restrictions designed to protect the magnificent sea creatures. Lagana Bay, in particular, has been declared a National Park.
Thousands of tourists tend to watch the big-headed turtles, and at the same time be impressed by the postcard views of the legendary beaches protected by sheer cliffs and numerous caves(for example, Galazia Spilia - Blue Cave). The most photographed place in Zakynthos (perhaps the whole of Greece) was the beach of Navagio. Probably, the reason is a ship thrown out by the sea, spectacularly rusting in the middle of snow-white sand in the grip of high rocks.
Capital
The city of Zakynthos, affectionately called Zante, is the most large settlement on the island and at the same time its capital. The earthquake of 1953 actually destroyed the island of Zakynthos (Greece). Landmarks that survived millennia were destroyed overnight. Of course, some of the buildings survived or were restored, but today's Zante was completely rebuilt after the cataclysm.
The 16,000th town is located on east coast, "facing" the Peloponnese. Zakynthos lacks medieval charm for the above reason. However, modern low-rise buildings in the Mediterranean style whimsically harmonize with the restored quarters.
Attractions
Although the main attraction of the area is Navagio Bay, the island of Zakynthos (Greece) will also be of interest to connoisseurs of architecture. First of all, you should bow before the altar of the church of St. Dionysus. This is the patron saint of the island, which means that it will not be superfluous to enlist his support. The church contains the remains of the saint. Visitors can enter only properly dressed: men - in trousers (not shorts!), women - with their heads covered. Information with the rules is posted at the entrance. If tourists are not properly dressed, they will be given appropriate clothing. As a rule, these are large scarves that can be used to cover bare spots. Next to the church is a historic bell tower.
There are many temples and bell towers in Zakynthos built in the Venetian style, when the bell tower is always placed separately, near the church. On the main square of Zante, there is a monument to the poet Solomos, the creator of the national anthem of Greece. Nearby is a library, which exhibits photographs of the city before the earthquake. A visit to the Byzantine Museum with a collection of the Ionian school of painting is considered mandatory.
The natural and architectural dominant of the capital are two cliffs rising above the city blocks pressed by the mountains to the sea. The castle and the settlement of Bokhali were located here. From these sites you can see almost the whole of Zakynthos, as well as meet the best sunrise in your life. By the way, direct tours to the island of Zakynthos (Greece) from Moscow are already available. Previously, you had to get through Athens or other major tourist centers.
Laganas
It is the largest and most popular resort on the island of Zakynthos. It is a bustling cluster of hotels, guest houses, bars and restaurants. There are numerous clubs and discos where the fun usually lasts until dawn. Therefore, people who value peace are advised to choose quieter resorts on the island, such as Tsilivi and Alykes. If you want to take a closer look at the island of Zakynthos (Greece), tours of local operators can be purchased at specialized centers.
After a day at the exceptionally beautiful sandy beach, it is worth taking a trip on a glass-bottomed boat. When it moves, you can see migrating from Africa to the Gulf of Laganas. Because of them, some parts of the beach are closed to people, so that animals can safely lay their eggs. In Laganas huge selection good restaurants and charming taverns. In the evening, with the onset of coolness, real pleasure will be a traditional Greek dinner.
Between the resort and the capital of the island is located international Airport Dionysios. Flights arrive here in the direction of " mainland Greece- Zakynthos Islands", as well as air transport from other airports in Europe.
Porto Doll
A very quiet resort located on a picturesque bay 4 km from the Laganas resort of the same name. Its charms will be appreciated by those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle big cities and spend your holidays in beautiful place. Here, narrow "chamber" beaches alternate with rocky ledges and stone ridges rising from the depths.
Kalamaki
The resort village is located in Laganas Bay, where the National marine park Zakynthos is famous for its inhabitants - sea turtles. The resort impresses with the beauty of its crystal clear beaches. clean water. From taverns, bars, restaurants it is convenient to survey the picturesque surroundings.
Vasilikos
This is one of the most beautiful peninsulas Zakynthos. The coast of the region is dotted with small sandy bays, and cozy hotels nestled among the hills. All this forms an unforgettable landscape. Ideal place for families and romantic getaway for two.
Tsilivi
Tsilivi ( coastal region Planos) is located on the east coast. Fashion resort in last years is rapidly developing, and this is not surprising: vacationers have always been attracted to Greece. The islands of Zakynthos are famous for their hospitality: even against the background of the cheerful Greeks, the locals stand out for courtesy, sometimes even excessive.
During the day, tourists relax on the sandy beaches and stroll along the small promenade. In the evening, they wander around the shops and shops or dine in numerous taverns and restaurants offering a huge selection of dishes: from traditional to exotic. A pleasant end to the evening will be a visit to one of the many bars.
If you go further along the coast, you can find a cozy beach in some secluded bay. The neighboring Drossia beach is especially charming. The farther from Tsilivi, the more modest the choice of hotels and food outlets. The mainland village of Planos is interesting to visit. The road to it passes through picturesque fertile lands, along green hills, where olive groves and vineyards grow with delicious juicy berries.
Kips
Kips - small resort, located in the northeastern part of Zakynthos, just a few kilometers from famous resort Tsilivi. Quiet and peaceful settlement is a traditional Greek village surrounded by olive groves and forests. The area has several nice sandy beaches at Pati Ammos and Agios Konstantinos which attract more and more tourists every year. The most famous place in this area is the unusually picturesque beach of Drosia, located near the village of Alykes. The Kypseli area is also famous for its mineral waters, known under the brand name "Levante". An architectural and historical pearl is the Church of St. Mary and its bell tower.
Zakynthos Island, Greece: Hours, Address, Zakynthos Island Reviews: 4.5/5
Many travelers first learn about Zakynthos from the famous photo of Navagio beach with a rusty ship. They begin to wonder where this beauty is located, and the road leads some especially curious people straight to the Ionian Islands. According to reviews, it is the desire to see the legendary corner of nature with their own eyes that encourages tourists to choose this direction.
People who come to Zakynthos are captivated by its beauty. Unlike the sun-scorched Greek islands towards the end of the season, Zakynthos miraculously stays green despite the heat. national park"Lagana" becomes the second most pleasant discovery - where else can you see huge turtles swimming in the distance? The third phenomenon is people who are especially kind and friendly.
Zakynthos island, Greece: prices
Prices are not much different from nearby areas of Greece:
- Beach. Most of the time it's free to use. Rent: deck chair + umbrella - 5-8 euros / day.
- Transport. Buses are the main means of transportation on the island. Tickets for the city bus are purchased at a kiosk or hotel reception. Tickets for intercity flights are sold at the station or in a vehicle. The price for a city bus is from 1 euro. The price of a taxi is about 2 euros / 1 km.
- Car rental - about 35-40 euros / day + fuel. Landlords issue transport to visitors without any problems if they have international driving licenses. But for some, the national driving license. The tenant must be at least 23 years of age. The price of gasoline is approximately 1.8 euros / liter.
- Renting a scooter will cost half as much: 15-20 euros / day.
- Store prices: mineral water- 0.8 euros; beer - from 1.5 euros; wine - 3.5-5 euros; cola (2 l) - 2 euros; postcards + stamp 1.5 euros; phone card - from 5 euros.
- Prices in the restaurant: dinner - from 12 euros; Greek salad - 5 euros; pizza - 8 euros; coffee - from 3 euros; ice cream - 4 euros, beer - from 3 euros.
On the edge of the Ionian Sea
Greece is always different, but always leaves an unforgettable impression. The islands of Zakynthos - and this is the mainland itself and the satellite islands of Kalonisi, Marathonisi, Agios Loannis and others - have become a real discovery for discerning tourists. Especially picturesque is the small rocky Kameo, where a wooden platform leads from the shore. For those who are alien to "pop" resorts, the homeland of turtles and kind people will be an unexpected, but very pleasant discovery.
On the Greek island of Zakynthos, or as it is also called, Zakynthos, we have already rested three times and this year we are going again. more comfortable and comfortable rest in Greece, we have not met anywhere before. Of course, to each his own, but we really like the island of Zakynthos for its nature, climate, sea and beaches.
Morning in Zakynthos
The most important attraction and visiting card not only of Zakynthos, but of the whole of Greece, is the bay of Navagio (Navagio - translated from Greek means shipwreck). Her image is found on all tourist sites and postcards related to Greece. Navagio Bay itself can only be reached by sightseeing boat or rented boat. Moreover, excursion boats do not enter the bay in stormy weather. In the bay itself, there is a wonderful white sand beach and a broken rusty ship lying on the shore with the inscription "Spartak is the champion!". On this ship, smugglers were once brought here in a storm. If you just admire the views of the bay, then you can do it from the observation deck, which is most conveniently reached by a rented car. The views are stunning. There are always a lot of photographers here and even in the high season there is a line of people who want to.
Bay of Navagio.
Sea near Navagio Bay
Natural and natural color of the sea
What do we like. Firstly, this is the absence of constantly blowing winds, as, for example, in Crete or Rhodes. Secondly, the presence of many cozy bays creates a unique comfort for beach holiday. There are no long wide beaches with crowds of tourists and numerous rows of umbrellas and sunbeds. Thirdly, the presence of numerous attractions within walking distance from each other. In Halkidiki, for example, magnificent nature and stunningly beautiful beaches, but for the sights you have to go far away.
The next very famous and visited by numerous tourists attraction of Zakynthos (Zakynthos) is on Cape Skinari. In fact, this is a system of grottoes, both on the shore and under water. They are located in the north of the island and you can also get into them only from the sea. To do this, it is most convenient to use a sightseeing boat or rent a motor boat on your own. By the way, this service is not expensive in Zakynthos. You will be given a boat with a motor and a full tank. For insurance, they will give you a cell phone, by which you can contact the landlord in case of unforeseen situations.
blue caves Zakynthos islands
Zakynthos. Sea. Silence.
If you want to go to the Blue Caves with an excursion, then numerous travel agencies are at your service, including those with Russian-speaking guides. The cost of such an excursion is on average 50 euros per person. The cost depends on where you plan to sail from. The closer to the town of Agios Nikolos and Cape Skinari, the cheaper. As a rule, on such excursions you will be allowed to swim and dive from a boat among these caves and grottoes. All this is very interesting and romantic, especially in calm, not stormy weather. There are full-day excursions around the island with a swim in many bays and with the obligatory swimming, fishing and lunch.
Zakynthos has an amazing sea, clean and warm.
All tourists arriving on vacation on the island of Zakynthos certainly go to the capital of the island, the city of Zakynthos. There are many taverns, souvenir shops on the waterfront and life in the city is in full swing. In Zakynthos there is a port from which you can sail on a catamaran excursion on neighboring island Kefalonia. From anywhere on the island, Zakynthos town can be reached by bus or taxi. Buses run almost regularly, and taxis are not at all expensive.
The capital of the island of Zakynthos is the city of Zakynthos.
Zakynthos town
Greek classic - frappe.
Interior of an ordinary Greek tavern
And it looks like an unusual tavern on Zakynthos in the city of Zakynthos
Embankment in the city of Zakynthos
Church of Saint Dionysius
Inside the church of St. Dionysius.
Greeks are resting
In the city of Zakynthos, there is the most famous church of St. Dionysius on the island, where his miraculous relics are buried. Thousands of tourists come here to worship them. The church itself is very beautiful.
Zakynthos has very interesting excursion called "jeep safari". You get into a small jeep and, as part of 6-8 people, go to sightseeing tour all over the island with obligatory visit main attractions, wineries, bays and swimming in them. The jeep safari route runs through the mountains of the island and includes a visit to one of the local taverns with a Greek-style lunch. The tour is interesting, but perhaps not everyone will like it, because. you will have to go in the heat in a jeep, over bumps, potholes and dusty mountain serpentines. I would even call this excursion extreme. But it is very beautiful and Zakynthos will appear before you from a completely different side.
In the mountains of Zakynthos on a jeep safari.
What else to see in Zakynthos?
Not far from the village of Laganas there is a small island of Marathonisi. It has cozy small coves with wild beaches among the rocks, where you can feel like a real Robinson. You can get to the island only on a rented motor boat or with some sea excursion. And Marathonisi has excellent snorkeling and diving.
Marathonisi island. Protected turtle carriage-carriage.
Wild beaches on the island of Marathonisi. You can only get here by motorboat on your own.
Classics of the genre. Zakynthos. In the evening, people line up to drink a glass of wine on these chairs.
Also in this village of Laganas there is a local living attraction - a huge sea turtle, whose name is Satyris and he is over a hundred years old. This turtle periodically swims up to the shore and at this time the real show begins. A crowd of tourists is gathering. Some come here specifically from afar to look at the curiosity and feed it from their hands. For children, this is a unique attraction.
Turtle Satyris.
Zakynthos island - bright pearl in the crown of the Greek Isles. This picturesque island with numerous beaches, Caretta-Caretta turtles, the amazing color of the sea, Venetian mansions and Navagio Bay - the symbol of the island, year after year thousands of tourists choose for their holidays.
Zakynthos is one of the Ionian Islands of Greece, located near the Peloponnese (only 9.5 nautical miles) and about. Kefalonia (8.5 nautical miles). The area of the island is 406 sq. km, population - 40.650 inhabitants (according to the 2011 census).
The capital of the island - the city of Zakynthos - reminds Medieval city, ancient Venetian mansions with loggias and galleries-arches, ornate paved roads and beautiful squares. In the city of Zakynthos, be sure to visit the Venetian castle of Bohali and green hill The country where the greatest poet Dionysios Solomos wrote the Hymn to Freedom.
In addition to the popular tourist resorts of Zakynthos, including Cape Laganas, it is worth visiting other places in Zakynthos that justify its name "Flower of the Levante" (Flower of the East) and "South Venice". Yes, except exotic beauty rocky coves and sandy beaches, take a trip to the lighthouse of Kerya (Keri village) and Ano Gerakaki for breathtaking panoramic views. Visit the small mountain villages of Ekso Chora, Orfonies and Volimes, which are hidden among pine forests, where beautiful traditional houses have been preserved.
Mouzenidis Travel offers a wide range of tours to Zakynthos with accommodation in comfortable hotels and apartments that meet any, even the highest requirements of guests. Of course, it will not be superfluous to get acquainted with the reviews both about the rest in hotels and Zakynthos itself, which tourists kindly leave on our website.
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Navagio and the Blue Caves
A boat or yacht tour around Zakynthos is a must if you want to see all the beauties of the island and also visit the famous Navagio beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the world and perhaps the most famous beach Greece.
There was a shipwreck on this site in 1982. cargo liner"Panagiotis" carrying smuggled cigarettes. The ship, on its way from Turkey to the open sea, lost its course and soon crashed on the rocks of the northwestern part of the island. Since then, this place has been one of the most popular attractions of Zakynthos, and photographs of the amazing beauty of the landscape and the rusty hull of the ship flew around the world as one of the most striking Greek postcards. If you want to see Navagio Bay from above, as well as take wonderful panoramic photos, go to observation deck located near the village of Anafonitria.
blue caves- These are the unique grottoes of Zakynthos, in which, thanks to the play of light and shadow, the walls of the caves are filled with amazing shades of blue. You can only get here by sea. In addition, as part of an excursion on a boat or yacht, you will not only be able to enjoy beautiful views, take rare photographs, but also swim in clearest waters Ionian island.
Monastery of Agios Georgios in Gremnon
In 1535, in the secluded region of Gremnon, the monks Macarius and Varlaam founded the monastery of St. George. After some time, a unique tower was added to it (in order to protect the monastery from pirate raids). A little below the monastery you will see a small platform that hangs over the abyss. From this place opens great view to Navagio beach.
Monastery of Anafonitria
According to legend, Saint Dionysius, the patron saint of the island, helped the murderer of his brother take refuge in this 15th century monastery. In addition, it is believed that the icon of the Mother of God miraculously arrived in this monastery from Constantinople, immediately after its fall. Legends or history, the magnificent monastery deserves your attention anyway.
St. Mark's Square
With a Venetian flair, St. Mark's Square is the center of social life in Zakynthos. It was on this square that the revolution of commoners took place in 1797, who burned the notorious Libro d "Oro, thereby eliminating the hereditary privileges of the nobility. You can have a great time in countless cafes and bars, or visit the Dionysius Solomos Museum of outstanding natives of Zakynthos.
Museum of Dionysius Solomos
On two floors of this ethnographic museum, located in St. Mark's Square, in addition to the manuscripts of the national poet of Greece and the first edition of the "Hymn to Freedom", 17th-century art objects (furniture, embroidery, jewelry and musical instruments from the mansions of that era), musical scores and the libretto of operas by the great 19th-century composer Pavlos Carrer. In addition, the museum displays handwritten notes and works by playwrights Antonis Matesi, Dionysios Romas and Gregory Xenopoulos.
Arekia, Bokhali, Gaitani
If you want to hear the famous serenades of Zakynthos (Zkynthos cantades) performed by local groups, then in Arekia in Repara and in Spiti tou Lata (Bokhali) a pleasant surprise awaits you: wooden tables and benches are installed in the yards, Greek wine flows like water to the pleasant music of Zakynthos . Here you can also try traditional dishes islands. To see theatrical performances performed by folk troupes, head to the village of Gaytani.
Stone Park Askos (Askos Flora and Fauna Park)
In the wooded area on the territory of 500 hectares in Volimes, you can see 45 species of animals (goats, turtles, raccoons, deer, llama, etc.), which live freely in special enclosures.
Climate on Zakynthos one of the most beneficial for human health (mild Mediterranean). Precipitation in the form of rain falls from November to January, and cloudless sunny weather persists in the rest of the year. Average annual temperature+ 19 °C, in winter the air temperature does not fall below + 12 °C. The average summer temperature is +26°C. In spring, in May, the weather in Zakynthos is also warm, and you can already swim on many beaches. Another feature of the weather on Zakynthos is the almost complete absence of changes in atmospheric pressure, which allows weather-dependent people not to experience any inconvenience while relaxing on the island. It is worth noting that the prices for tours to Zakynthos in the Mouzenidis Travel range of offers are among the lowest on the tourist market in the season Summer @ [email protected]
The eastern side of Zakynthos is ideal for families as it has endless sandy beaches with clean blue waters surrounded by picturesque nature and taverns. The western part of Zakynthos is rocky, resulting in regions of exquisite beauty, but rather difficult access to the beaches.
The real attraction of Zakynthos is the beautiful beach Gerakas - home of sea turtles Caretta-Caretta. In addition, here you will see bizarre clay sculptures created by nature itself. Another beach declared a national marine park is Laganas, where the Caretta-Caretta turtles live. In order to protect them, the passage of boats in this bay is prohibited. According to reviews about the island of Zakynthos, in order to see the turtles, you need to remember that the beaches close half an hour before sunset.
No less beautiful beach - rocky Limnionas with beautiful underwater caves, ideal for diving. There is a tavern next to the beach.
Very picturesque beach Zakynthos is sheltered from the winds of Marathias, with white pebbles and crystal clear waters.
Xigkia beach with warm sulphurous waters and hot sea springs. Sandy beach Daphne is a protected beach (because of the nests of the Caretta Caretta turtles), however, at the taverna by the beach, you can enjoy excellent local cuisine.
One of the most visited beaches of Zakynthos with bars and infrastructure for active rest – Banana, Tsilivi, Alykes, Alykanas And Porto Zoro.
Blue Caves of Zakynthos, located in the northwest of the island, can also be attributed to exotic beaches not only the islands, but Greece as a whole. Having made an exciting sea excursion, of course, you will not be able to soak up the soft sand, but you will swim and admire the reflection of light on the phosphorescent waters and white stones.
Zakynthos island is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea, part of the archipelago of the Ionian Islands, located west of the Peloponnese and south of Corfu on the west coast.
Despite its size (the island is 40 km long and 20 km wide), the area of the island is about 400 km2, the relief of the island is very diverse. On the east coast, beautiful sandy beaches hidden in numerous bays attract many tourists, while West Side, more wild, mountainous, with many rocks and mountains (they are not very high, the highest peak is only about 750 m).
About 40 thousand inhabitants live on the island, the island is known to tourists for its beautiful sandy beaches, hidden bays and the most famous place nesting of loggerhead sea turtles. Bigheads sea turtles emblematic of Zakynthos, this species of turtle has been laying its eggs on the beaches in the southern part of the island for hundreds of years and is now endangered. They are under the protection of the state, therefore, there are some restrictions on the beaches during certain periods of time (for example, on the beach of Gerakas a ban on swimming at night) to help in their protection. Zakynthos island with the whole family!
Map of Zakynthos island
When is the best time to go on holiday to Zakynthos?
The best time to travel to Zakynthos is from June to mid-September. The warmest time is in July and August, the water in the sea is very warm. However, it is best to visit Zakynthos in May, June and September, avoiding the mercilessly scorching sun.
However, many tourists come to the island not only in summer, but also for Christmas, Easter and other holidays. There is a large selection of accommodation available in the city all year round. You can choose from a wide range of hotels of all categories, as well as studio apartments and private rooms, suitable for families on a low budget. 
The capital of the island of Zakynthos is the city of Zakynthos.
City Zakynthos (Zakynthos) - the capital and The largest city on the island, it is located on the east coast and is a center of culture and trade, it is home to about 11-12 thousand inhabitants; its port is the largest on the island. The city was completely destroyed by a strong earthquake in 1953, but it was soon rebuilt and today visitors can see a city with two faces: on the one hand, the old medieval city, with impressive buildings and monuments, on the other hand, a modern, rapidly developing city, with all amenities. , and the services of a modern city.
Dionysios Solomos Square
The center of the city is Dionysius Solomos Square, whose name comes from the name of the author of the words of the Greek anthem, who was born in the city of Zakynthos. It is surrounded by trees and imposing buildings with arched windows, columns and arches. These buildings house the Town Hall, the National Bank, the Byzantine Museum, the National Library, and various administrative buildings. Here you can see the bust of the Italian poet Niccolò Hugo Foscolo and the statue of the national poet of Greece Dionysios Solomos.
Byzantine Museum
The Byzantine Museum was opened in 1960; here you can see local utensils and tools, as well as frescoes, sculptures and statues of the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods, as well as a collection of icons of the XVII century.
In 1953, a powerful earthquake hit the island, which destroyed many monuments, there is a model in the museum that allows you to see how the city looked before the beginning of 1953. 
At the edge of the square you will find old church Saint Nicholas of the 17th century, a Renaissance church with a Byzantine bell tower! This is the only Venetian building that was saved from the fire that broke out after the 1953 earthquake! 
If you go west along the sidewalk from Dionysius Solomos Square, then at 150 meters you will see St. Mark's Square.
This historical square, its history is connected with the struggle of the island for independence. On July 30, 1797, the population of the island gathered here and overthrew the Venetian rule. Here you can visit the Museum of Dionysios Solomos, which houses the remains of the national poet of Greece and other famous natives of the island.
It is open every day from 9.00 to 14.00
The museum was established in 1959 in a recently renovated building and opened to the public in 1966, under the direction of a private association of local residents. On the ground floor of the house there is a collection of manuscripts by Solomos and other poets, authors and performers; there is also an interesting and rich collection of portraits famous people islands. You will also see a significant library and furniture from the period of British rule on the island, as well as a large collection of photographs.
The museum also has an interesting collection of paintings from the 18th-19th centuries, sculptures, ceramics, metal and wood carvings.
Finally, the museum has an interesting electronic library where you will find a very rich bibliography on local history. 
From the southwest side of Piazza San Marco, the so-called Rouga (market) street begins. This is the largest shopping street in the city. On it you can walk and buy food or souvenirs. You can relax for a while in the many cafes on both sides of the street. 
Church of St. Dionysius
It is a symbol of Zakynthos and majestically rises above south side harbor! It is one of three buildings in the city that were not destroyed by the 1953 earthquake. It was built in 1925. IN church can admire exquisite frescoes, as well as kneel before the relic of the patron saint of the island Dionysius (1547-1622), which is kept here. 
At 150 meters northwest of the monastery of St. Dionysius stands Church of Our Lady of Faneromeni, built in 1633. It was destroyed in the 1953 earthquake and was one of the most beautiful churches in Greece. It has been restored to its original appearance. 
Venetian castle on the island of Zakynthos
Located in the upper part of the Bokhali hill, about 3 km north and above the city, the fortress was built on the ruins, ancient acropolis islands. The construction of the fortifications, which still stand today, almost untouched by time, by an earthquake, was completed by the Venetians in 1646. Today, the castle and the area around it, surrounded by pine trees, offer the visitor a wonderful view of the capital, especially after dark, when the lights of the city at the foot of the hill form a fantastic scenery.
The castle was built with all the innovations in fortification; the task was carried out with the help of well-known Venetian engineers of the period and local expert craftsmen, while the material used was of the best quality. The main outer gate of the castle is decorated with the famous Venetian regalia: the winged lions from Saint-Marquet. It was during this period that the Venetians built cobbled streets from the castle down to the coast.
The pine forest, which was planted here in 1939 and covers the entire territory of the fortress, is an ideal place for a walk. View of all parts Zakynthos islands from here is just perfect.
