What to do in Zakynthos. Open the left menu of Zakynthos. Local cuisine: what will surprise

July. By oneself

Greece, Zakynthos island

I love to travel alone. Where have I not been already in my life! But Greece is just a wonderful country! So at the end of July this year I returned from a trip to some of the colorful islands of this great country. At this time of the year it is really very hot there, but this is Greece, where July is considered the hottest month.

Separately, I want to stay on the island of Zakynthos (Zakynthos, in Greek). From mainland Greece, I got there by ferry. Although it took a long time, I was interested. The island is mountainous, sparsely populated and very green.

But the most famous attraction of Zakynthos is the ancient and rare sea turtles. There they are erected in a kind of cult. It is said that during the egg-laying season, air travel over the island even stops.

There are also many different caves on the island, and there I took my soul away, having studied the largest and most colorful ones.

I didn’t really go around the capital of the island, somehow the city noise didn’t appeal to me when there was such beautiful nature around.

In general, I really liked Zakynthos, after which I went to explore other equally interesting Greek islands.

Olesya and Vladimir

June. With a family

Greece, Zakynthos island

How long and tediously we waited for our vacation ... We planned in advance that we would go out with my wife on the same day and we would definitely go on vacation to warm countries. And so it happened, on June 3, we went on a vacation package to the fabulous Greek island of Zakynthos. We read and watched a lot about him, and when we arrived there, we were simply stunned by his beauty. The island consists entirely of high, forested ones, there is simply the purest air, the very thing for our child and my sick bronchi.

But what a magnificent sea there! We have never been to the Ionian Sea before and now we believe that it is the cleanest and most gentle.

As for the local attendants, I completely agree with my acquaintances that the Greeks are very lazy and slow, but they are very pleasant and polite people. They are always sincerely happy and do not hesitate to show their emotions.

We really enjoyed our vacation! We want to go there again.

• Tours for May to Greece
• Hot tours to Greece

Book great offers to Greece on the promotion: now! Direct discounts from hotels up to 30%. Save with Pegas Touristik, tours to Greece -

Warm summer in popular resorts: Crete and Rhodes from the travel agency Pegas Touristik WTC LLC. online 24/7. Installment at 0%.

How to get to Zakynthos

There are no direct regular flights from Russia to the island. From the end of May to the beginning of October, you can fly there from Moscow Domodedovo by a charter flight a / c "North Star Airlines" (2 times a week, travel time 3.5 hours). From June to September, charters of the Greek Ellinair fly from St. Petersburg to Zakynthos (once a week, 4 hours).

The cheapest way to fly from Moscow to Zakynthos is with Aegean Airlines with a transfer in Athens. True, the road in this case will stretch for 17 hours. More expensive options compared to charter flights are with a transfer in Prague (Czech Airlines or Smart Wings, 10 hours), London (British Airways, 13 hours), Brussels (Brussels Airlines). From St. Petersburg you can fly with a transfer in Prague (Czech Airlines, 17 hours) or Munich (Lufthansa, 16 hours).

From airport to city

Dionysios Solomos International Airport is located 4 km from Zakynthos, the administrative center of the island. There is no public transport at the airport. A taxi to Zakynthos and the nearest resort towns of Argassi, Laganas and Kalamaki costs 24-28 EUR, to Planos - 38 EUR, to the port of Agios Nikolaos located in the north of the island - 66 EUR. Prices on the page are for November 2018.

Search flights to Zakynthos

Ferries

With mainland Greece, the islands of the Ionian archipelago and the Italian Brindisi, Zakynthos is connected by ferry. From the port of Kyllini in the Peloponnese to the port of Zakynthos, ferries of the shipping companies K / X Ionian Group (off. site in English) and Kefalonian Lines (off. site in English) run. In the summer season they make up to 10 flights a day. The first ferry to Zakynthos leaves at 6:45, the last at 21:00, the journey takes 1 hour. The fare is EUR 9.50 per person and EUR 39.20 for an economy class car.

The ferry is a convenient option to get to Zakynthos for those who fly into the airports of mainland Greece and travel around the country in a rented car.

Transport

Buses of the KTEL company (off. site in English) regularly run between Zakynthos, Laganas, Argassi, Kalamaki and other towns of the island. The schedule is posted at stops and varies depending on the season and day of the week - there are fewer flights on weekends. The driver takes the fare, the cost of the trip is 1.80-3.60 EUR.

Unfortunately, following the timetable is not one of the virtues of bus drivers. Being late by 15-20 minutes is a common thing.

From the KTEL central bus station (Iatrou Mothonaiou, 29100) intercity buses depart to Athens (4-5 times a day, travel time, including ferry crossing, 6 hours, ticket costs 29 EUR), Patra (3-4 times a day , 9 EUR) and Thessaloniki (1-2 times a week, 55 EUR). The ferry ride is paid separately.

Taxi

Taxis can be called by phone, ordered via the Internet or taken at special parking lots in popular tourist places. The cost of a small trip is 25 EUR. To explore the island on your own, you can use a taxi with a time-based payment: 40 EUR / hour.

Cruises around the island start from the port of Zakynthos, prices start from 30 EUR. The bay of Navalio and the Blue Grottoes can be reached by boat from the port of Agios Nikolaos or from Cape Skinari in the north of the island, the cost is 10-20 EUR.

Bicycles for rent

Short distances and good roads have made the island a convenient place for cycling. You can rent a road or mountain bike at street rental points in resort areas and in a good half of hotels. The price of pleasure is 7-10 EUR per day.

Maps of Zakynthos

Rent a Car

The best assistant for those who want to see the most beautiful views of the island is a car. At the airport there are counters of international car rental companies Avis, Hertz, Sixt and others, in Zakynthos, Lagonas, Kalamaki and Argassi - offices of local companies Faros, Auto-Moto Sakis, Giant Rentals and others with lower prices. In addition, cars can be ordered at the reception in many hotels.

Unlike international ones, Greek distributors allow cash payment. You can even bargain with them a little.

In high season it is better to book a car in advance. Otherwise, there is a risk of not getting the car of the desired class. It is worth considering that the roads in the interior of the island are very narrow and winding in places, which creates difficulties when traveling with large vehicles. Another problem is the clearly insufficient number of road signs and signs, so the navigator will not be superfluous. But there are no problems with traffic jams (they are very rare) and free parking (you can leave your car anywhere where there are no prohibition signs).

The greatest danger on the roads is young Britons driving ATVs, who came to the island to have fun and be weird in all available ways.

Zakynthos Hotels

There is a suitable hotel in Zakynthos for everyone. Tourists accustomed to comfort are waiting in a dozen mini-state-like “five” with large well-groomed territories and infrastructure that allows you to completely forget about everything that happens outside of them. True, at the peak of the season, such "forgetfulness" costs no less than 250 EUR for a double room. 4 * hotels in terms of quality of service and infrastructure are not much inferior to more "star" counterparts, but in terms of prices - from 140 EUR, they undoubtedly have an advantage.

Regardless of the number of "stars" and even if they are completely absent, all hotels and apartments on the island have free Wi-Fi and parking.

A compromise choice is 3 * hotels, as a rule, with a restaurant and a swimming pool. The lack of spa and fitness centers and a small area are more than offset by the democratic room rates: 80-120 EUR. The cheapest accommodation option (from 40 EUR) is apartments and guesthouses located 15-20 minutes walk from the sea.

The beaches of Zakynthos

One of the undoubted advantages of the island is its beaches. Sandy and pebbly, large and small, framed by rocks and pine trees, equipped and completely wild, unlike each other and very beautiful. The most noisy and crowded is the beach of Laganas, densely crowded with sunbeds, with numerous bars and taverns. The main contingent is European youth aged 17-25. Neighboring Kalamaki is for more respectable vacationers who prefer a comfortable measured rest.

The stunningly beautiful Navagio Beach can only be reached by sea. The beach is completely wild - there are no umbrellas, no toilets, no fast food vendors here. At times, it is "overcrowded" due to the large number of passengers from boats that have sailed here.

The best time for photography is from 15:00 to 17:00, when the bay is fully lit by the sun and the water takes on a very beautiful color.

Banana Beach is the largest beach on the Vassilikos peninsula with a relaxed serene atmosphere and is well suited for families. The water here is clean and warm, there are sun loungers, umbrellas, changing cabins, showers, cafes and restaurants. From children's entertainment - water slides and riding a "banana".

The cost of renting two sun loungers and an umbrella on the beaches of Zakynthos is 4-9 EUR.

The cozy beach of Xigia with turquoise waters is a real natural spa in the open air. Collagen-rich sulfur springs flow into the sea right off the coast and have a healing, rejuvenating and anti-cellulite effect. The only inconvenience is the smell of hydrogen sulfide, which, however, you quickly get used to. High above the beach there is a tiny cafe with Greek cuisine, ice cream, soft drinks and a “magic” basket on a cable that allows you to lower everything ordered directly to the beach.

What to bring

In addition to gigabytes of photographs, honey, olive oil, mandolato almond marshmallow, and spicy salty Ladotiri cheese are brought from Zakynthos. Soaps and cosmetics based on olive oil are traditionally good. Fine handmade embroidery can be bought at the convent of Panagia Eleftherotria. The vineyards of the island are the basis for making wines in the Callinico family winery. Among the best is the white dry Verdea, which has been produced since the 19th century.

The main "heroines" of the local souvenir stalls are caretta-caretta turtles: large and small, made of ceramics, glass or wood, on T-shirts, mugs, magnets. And rarely does a child leave Zakynthos without a soft plush turtle.

Cafes and restaurants Zakynthos

From expensive restaurants and family taverns with national cuisine to pizzerias and budget eateries with fast food, it is easy to find a catering establishment of any price category in Zakynthos. The most delicious breakfast - in the nearest bakery with a cup of Greek coffee and freshly baked "tiporita", "spanakorita" or "bougatsa" (in other words, cheese pies, spinach and custard), will cost no more than 5 EUR.

For lunch, you should choose a coastal tavern serving Greek salad, marinated octopus, moussaka, souvlaki, fried sea bream with excellent house wine. There are colorful village taverns in the central part of the island. The food there is prepared according to grandmother's recipes, and hardly anyone can resist the temptation to try a roasted pig on a spit or "stifado" - meat stewed in wine with onions and cinnamon. The pleasure received from such a dinner is much higher than the 15 EUR paid for it.

You can feel like a real gourmet in the pathos restaurants of Zakynthos, Laganas or Kalamaki with author's cuisine, exquisite interior, excellent service, beautiful views and live music. True, dinner with a glass of good wine here will cost about 30 EUR.

One of the most popular in Zakynthos is the Ole-Ole restaurant with home cooking, family atmosphere, moderate prices and unbelievably large portions (off site in English). It is appreciated by men who love to eat a lot and tasty, and their companions who follow the figure - one serving of Greek salad is enough for two.

Entertainment and attractions

Rocks that go into the water, blue grottoes, shores covered with pines - the architect of the main attractions of Zakynthos is Her Majesty Nature.

From early morning, a whole flotilla of boats starts on panoramic cruises along the coast. It is from the water that Zakynthos appears in all its splendor. The routes of sea trips are very diverse. In 8 hours, you can get around the entire island on a boat stylized as a pirate sailboat. Or you can limit yourself to visiting the famous Navagio Bay: sheer cliffs that surround a small beach on all sides make this natural wonder inaccessible from the coast. On the white sand lies the rusty wreck of the ship "Panagiotis", hence the name of the bay, in translation "Shipwreck".

Remember Eduard Bagritsky - "three Greeks are smuggling to Odessa"? So - "Panagiotis" secretly carried a cargo of cigarettes from Turkey to Italy, but ran aground and was thrown ashore by the waves. They say that the cigarettes found in its holds were enough for all the smokers of the island for half a year.

The northern coast of Zakynthos in the area of ​​​​Cape Skinari is corroded by arches and grottoes, where you can swim by boat. The piercing turquoise water, reflected from the white vaults, fills them with an incredible blue glow. Another Keri caves are located in the southwest of Zakynthos in the Gulf of Laganas. Opposite them lies the small island of Marathonisi, chosen for laying eggs by giant caretta-caretta sea turtles. You can see them in their natural habitat during "turtle" cruises or on your own from a rented boat.

A journey inland through vineyards and olive groves with a view of natural beauties, ancient temples, monasteries, wineries and villages with a traditional way of life promises a lot of interesting things. The largest of them, the village of Katastari, is one of the few that survived the devastating earthquake of 1953 and has preserved many old buildings. The patron saint of the island, Dionysios of Zakynthos, lived for 20 years in the tiny monastery of the Theotokos Anafonigria with an area the size of a city apartment. His relics in a silver reliquary are in a temple built in honor of him on the waterfront of the city of Zakynthos. They say that St. Dionysius, helping people, continues to go around the island, which is why his slippers get dirty and washed out. Periodically they are changed for new ones, and pieces of the old ones are distributed to parishioners.

Weather

Zakynthos lies in the temperate Mediterranean climate zone. There is more precipitation here in winter than in the rest of Greece, so this is a very green island. Even in cold January, the temperature does not fall below +11 °C. In March, spring comes to the island in all its many colors and it becomes clear why Zakynthos is called the flower of the East.

In June, vacationers begin to fill it, and the water warms up to quite comfortable values. The peak temperatures and house prices are in August. Thanks to the abundance of greenery and a light breeze, the summer heat is easier to bear than on the mainland, but air conditioning in the room will not be superfluous. September is the best time in Zakynthos: the sea is still warm and the air temperature drops slightly. House prices fall only in October. In November, the weather deteriorates, prolonged rains finally “wash away” all tourists from the island.

The island of Zakynthos (Greece) is a magical corner of beautiful dreams. Hundreds of poets and writers sang of this island, endowed with the beauty of untouched nature, a variety of rich colors and conditions for a comfortable stay. It smells of pine needles, aromas of exotic flowers, citruses and grapes.

Luxurious flower of the Mediterranean

The island of Zakynthos, or Zakynthos, as it is commonly called in Greece, is part of the group of the Ionian Islands. It is located 30 km west of mainland Greece and is the third largest among all the islands of its group. It will not be difficult for tourists to get to the mainland, if desired. The capital city, by the way, is also called Zakynthos. It is very convenient - no one will confuse anything when planning a vacation, because Zakynthos and Zakynthos are, in fact, one and the same.

The total area of ​​Zakynthos is 407 km2. The length of the coastline is 123 km. The population is about 39,000 people. Rather modest size does not prevent this island from developing in the tourist direction, because the nature here is truly beautiful, small villages are very colorful and attractive, and sandy beaches are very convenient and beautiful.

Features of Zakynthos

The Greek island of Zakynthos was called "the flower of the Levant" or "the flower of the Mediterranean East" in ancient times. These names were given to it by the Venetians, who appreciated all its beauty back in the 15th century. The island not only inspires musicians, artists and writers, but also attracts many tourists with its amazing beaches, clear turquoise sea, and unusual sights. The greatest flourishing of the culture of this Greek island falls on the period of the Venetians.

According to the legend, Zakynthos charmed even the Greek gods with its beauty. Apollo and Artemis most admired him. This is probably why the indigenous people have especially revered this couple since ancient times. In the immortal poetry of Homer, Zakynthos is also described as "a paradise immersed in emerald forests."

At the beginning of summer, people come to Zakynthos to see one interesting event. Big-headed Caretta turtles lay their eggs in the sand during the summer. 55 days after laying, new individuals hatch from the eggs and head en masse to the sea. The process is monitored by specialists, because only 1-2 turtles are able to get to the water on their own. This event is also of great interest. Caretta-caretta turtles reach up to 1 m in length.

The island of Zakynthos, or Zakynthos, is unique in that nature here has been preserved almost in its original form. Greenery is rampant everywhere, numerous flowers bloom and spread their honey aromas all year round. There are no aggressive industrial facilities here, so harmful substances do not pollute the atmosphere, water and land. The activities of small factories for the production of olive oil and wine are strictly regulated by environmental regulations and do not harm the environment.

Photos of tourists who returned from the island of Zakynthos in Greece are literally full of images of folklore and music festivals. This place honors cultural traditions, so you can find many authentic paintings and local architecture. In colorful taverns on the seashore, you can taste delicious Mediterranean dishes.

Find out the RATES or book any accommodation using this form

What to see and where to have fun?

The most important thing for travelers and vacationers who come to Zakynthos from different parts of the world is the nature of the island: picturesque beaches, natural grottoes, dense greenery and truly beautiful panoramic views. It is unfortunate that most of the historical monuments did not survive. But the population of the island is trying to protect everything that is left. And there really is something to see!

Blue Caves of Keri in Zakynthos

In the north of Zakynthos, you can take beautiful photos if you decide to visit the unique blue caves. Admire the many picturesque grottoes, stone arches and clear blue waters. The originality of this natural attraction is added by the fact that you can get to the caves only on occasion. The most visited and famous blue cave is located at Cape Skinari. Artists, professional photographers and directors love to work in it.

By the way, the water in the snow-white grottoes is saturated with calcium and other minerals. Therefore, washing with such water has a beneficial effect on the skin. The depth of these waters reaches four meters. Due to the sufficiently large depth, here you can dive with a mask and admire the corals to your heart's content.

Church of St. Dionysius

On the city embankment of the city of Zakynthos there is a temple with an impressive bell tower, which can be seen from afar. This is the Church of St. Dionysius, named after a priest with a difficult fate, who, despite human malice, earned great respect and love from the inhabitants of the island. His relics are kept in the chapel at the church.

The entrance to the temple is decorated with complex mosaics, the base of which has a noble golden color. Inside the temple, you can see icons painted by famous Greek masters. Multi-colored stained-glass windows act as windows, and the walls of the church are richly painted.

By the way, another prominent islander was named after the priest. For the Greeks, the island of Zakynthos is not just beautiful beaches and pristine forests. First of all, this is the birthplace of a revered person, the great poet, author of the national anthem - Dionysius Solomos. His monument was erected on the main square of the capital.

Water Village

If you want to spend time on Zakynthos not only useful, but also fun, then you should definitely visit the water park. There are three of them on the island, but the most famous and largest is Water Village. It is located in the village of Sarakinado, 6 km from the capital of Zakynthos. There are slides of different levels for children and adults, a huge number of pools and various water activities. In several cafes and bars located right on the territory of the water park, you can refresh yourself or refresh yourself with a cocktail.

• Ticket price: 20 EUR for adults and 15 EUR for children, for half a day (after 14:30) 15 and 10 EUR respectively.
• Opening hours: in May-June and September-October - from 10:00 to 17:00, in July - from 10:00 to 17:30, in August from 10:00 to 18:00.
• Official website of the park: https://zantewatervillage.gr

marine reserve

In 1999, a nature reserve was established on the island. It is located on several beaches and 2 small islands. This is a miniature example of the Mediterranean ecosystem. It will be very interesting for both children and adults. Everyone can see iguanas, porcupines, dolphins, rare turtles, unique seals and many other inhabitants of the sea.

In addition to the sea, there is also a stone reserve Askos. In the limited area of ​​the park, many rare species of animals and plants have been collected. Among the hundreds of inhabitants of the animal world, it is worth noting peacocks, raccoons, deer, donkeys and ponies, as well as wild boars.

Children will definitely be delighted with a walk around Askos. Some animals are allowed to be fed by the park staff with food that they themselves provide. The entrance ticket costs €9.50.

The Stone Park is located 30 km from the city of Zakynthos and only 3 km from the Blue Caves.

Transfiguration Monastery on Strofada

The monastery was built back in 1241 on one of the islands near Zakynthos. In the 15th century, the building of the monastery was rebuilt, and it looked like a castle or a medieval fortress. Such a structure served as an excellent shelter for the monks from pirates. The central temple is made in the form of a tower. It was here that St. Dionysius served as a simple monk for some time. As a result of the earthquake, the monastery was badly damaged, but they tried to restore it, resuming its original appearance. Nowadays, the monastery operates, 60 monks live in it.

Prices on the page are for December 2019.

Compare Home Prices Using This Form

Island weather

Zakynthos attracts vacationers and tourists with its mild Mediterranean climate. In winter it is not cold at all, and in summer there is no scorching heat. In winter, the earth is generously watered with rain. Such weather conditions favor the formation of rich vegetation and the constant accumulation of fresh water. In the summer season, from early May to October, there is practically no rain. The constant fresh breeze from the sea helps to soften the heat in July and August.

The weather of air and water in the sea by months in Zakynthos is displayed on the charts.

Average temperature in summer: +24…+30°С. Experienced tourists believe that June-October is the best period for a holiday in Zakynthos. At other times it is also not cold here, but the sea does not warm up enough. If a beach holiday is not important for you, then all year round excursions and entertainment tours are held on the island.

The island of Zakynthos, Greece is an educational and harmonious holiday in an ecologically clean area with virgin nature.

Aerial views in different parts of Zakynthos - in this video.

Related posts:

Of the almost innumerable Greek islands so different from each other, I personally love the Ionian seven-island archipelago of Eftanis most of all. It includes the arrogant-aristocratic Corfu-Kerkyra, and the snow-white-peaceful Lefkada-Lefkas, and the multilingual-magnificent Kefalonia-Kefallinia, as well as the patriarchal-original Zakynthos, which will be discussed.

Like other Greek Ionian Islands, it has a couple of naming options, due to the centuries-old influence of the Venetians who dominated here. And besides them, the island was at different times under the protectorate of the Norman, French, then Russian and later British. But, unlike the rest of Hellas, the Ionian Islands, and Zakynthos among them, have never been part of the Ottoman Empire.

The Venetians officially called it Zante - a name thanks to them that spread throughout Europe. The poets of the Venetian Republic gave him another, and I personally like it much more, a name that sounds like “Fior di Levante” in Italian, which means “Flower of the morning dawn”.

By the way, this is the name of the Greek ferry boat that runs between the island and the mainland, awarded in 2015 the title of the most beautiful ferry in the world.

The Greek name for the island is pronounced Zakinθos. And it is not by chance that I use the Greek θ among Russian letters here, because it once existed in the Old Slavonic Cyrillic alphabet, denoting exactly that phoneme - something in between F and T, which sounds in this name. True, this letter left the Russian alphabet as a result of the reform of 1918, as unnecessary. In Russian-language literature and on the Internet, such an interpretation of the name of the island as Zakynthos is more common than others.

How to get there

Direct regular and direct flights, like any other, between Russia and Zakynthos do not exist. Charter flights are highly irregular and completely dependent on the conjuncture of the tourist market. Therefore, we will consider here mainly multi-way options for moving to the island. But, believe me, the effort spent on the road is worth it!

By plane

The island, despite its small size, has its own air harbor, which is named after Dionysios Solomos, a native of Zakynthos, a national Greek poet and author of the poem "Hymn to Freedom", which is the basis of the national anthem of Hellas.

From Russia

In summer, the airport accepts charter flights from Moscow-Domodedovo, operated by NordStar, as well as from St. Petersburg - Ellinair.

So, for example, a ticket for a direct flight lasting 4 hours from St. Petersburg to Zakynthos by Ellinair Boeing-737 costs 240 EUR.

If it is possible to plan a flight in advance for the most favorable date, then in this case there are opportunities to significantly save on air tickets, however, you will have to make transfers and wait for intermediate flights.

• Night flight duration 3 hours 45 minutes. by Aegean A320 to Heraklion in Crete.
• After a 14-hour wait, an Olympic Air A320 flight to .
• Another overnight wait of 6 hours and 25 minutes, followed by an early morning 55-minute flight by Olympic Air Dash-8 turboprop to Zakynthos.

As you can see, a twofold gain in price turns into a multiple loss in time.

From Europe

During the summer tourist season, Zakynthos is connected by air to most European countries. Moreover, with Britain, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Italy and some others, flights are carried out on a regular basis, and with the rest - on a charter basis.

From Greece

Year-round air traffic from the capital of Hellas to Zakynthos is carried out only by the Greek companies Olympic Air and SkyExpress. The latter also operates weekly flights from Cretan Heraklion to Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Preveza.

Thus, a flight by SkyExpress from Heraklion to Zakynthos with a transfer and waiting in Athens with a total duration of 21 hours costs 171 EUR, and a ticket for the difficult route Heraklion-Sitia-Preveza-Kefalonia-Zakynthos costs 275EUR.

A ticket for regular flights Athens-Zakynthos of the Olympic Air airline as part of a promotional offer in advance sale has a cost of 65 EUR.

Zakynthos airport

The international IATA airport classification code for the island is ZTH, the time zone is UTC+2. When calculating takeoff, landing and flight duration, winter time should also be taken into account, which the country switches to from late October to March.

By the way, all takeoffs and landings are carried out only during the day, and night flights are prohibited here, so as not to disturb the noise of the engines of the unique, legally protected, Caretta Caretta sea turtles, which, after sunset, go to the beaches of the island to lay eggs.

What is most striking is that during the year, and mainly in the summer, over a million passengers pass through this tiny airfield.

The air gates of the island are located 6 km from its capital.

A taxi ride from the airport to the city center will cost about 13 EUR, to the Laganas area - 17, to the villages of Limni Keriu, Vasilikos and Alykes - 28, Tsilivi - 20, and to the port of Agios Nikolaos in the north of Zakynthos - 47 EUR.

By bus

Buses of the ΚΤΕΛ intercity network depart from Athens to Zakynthos from the central bus station at 100 Kifisou Avenue. It can be reached from Athens Airport by express X93, tickets for which cost 5 EUR are sold at a kiosk near the terminal building. The ticket price - Zakynthos is 28.60 EUR, to which should be added the cost of the ferry, paid directly on the ferry boat.

There is also a daily bus service from Thessaloniki and back, the ticket price for which without a ferry crossing is 54.40 EUR.

By car

Probably, you have to be an incorrigible optimist, or a die-hard stubborn one, to decide on a car trip from Russia to Zakynthos, but, just in case, in order not to take up much space with a useless description, I will give here just a Google map showing it.

Those who wish, if any, will be able to use this popular Internet service, where they will receive complete information.

From Athens

It is much more realistic to get from Moscow by plane to the Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos", rent a car there and make an exciting journey to the port of Kyllini in the Peloponnese, from where ferries to Zakynthos regularly leave.

Zakynthos has regular ferry connections to the Peloponnesian port of Kyllini and to its northern neighbor Kefalonia. Feri-boats of Levante Ferries make four trips a day in winter, from five to six in summer, eight at Easter, and on August 24, St. Dionysius - nine times.

A simple ferry ticket costs 8.90, children from 5 to 10 years old - 5 EUR, and under 5 years old - free of charge. Carriage of a passenger car - 28.90 EUR, and if you pay for the return journey at the same time - 47.90 EUR. Light bike, up to 250 cc - 8.20, and heavy bike - 12.80 EUR.

Clue:

Zakynthos - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Yekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

The climate of the island is typically Mediterranean, characterized by a large amount of rain from the beginning of November to the end of January. During the rest of the year, the island has sunny weather, slightly softened in the hottest months by the proximity of the sea.

It is generally accepted that Zakynthos is most suitable only for a summer beach holiday. I can say that this opinion is erroneous, and if desired, everyone can find a suitable season for relaxation and recreation here. A noisy and hot summer is replaced by an abundant and mild autumn, followed by a leisurely and thoughtful winter, and then with the advent of spring, everything repeats itself again.

Zakynthos in summer

From personal experience, I can say that the ideal time to travel to Zakynthos is from the beginning of June to the end of August, when the weather is most suitable for a beach holiday.

The sea at this time warms up to the most favorable condition for taking sea baths, and from mid-July to mid-August, even swimming after sunset in sea water shining under the moonlight, due to the high night air temperature, not only does not cause discomfort, but, on the contrary, brings a feeling of bliss, relaxation and relief from the heat of the day.

Zakynthos in autumn

For those who do not tolerate the summer heat, I can advise you not to be upset, because the velvet season in September, while the sea has not yet begun to cool down, can in this case be an ideal time to relax on the island of Zakynthos.

And the seasonal reduction in prices not only for tourist services, but also, thanks to the rather well-developed agricultural sector here, for most food products will even allow you to save a little on the trip.

Zakynthos in spring

The southernmost, but not the largest even in its Ionian archipelago, Zakynthos, nevertheless, is blessed with abundance and prosperity, thanks to the unique geomorphological features given to it by nature. Conventionally, it can be divided into three areas: the wild rocky north, the south immersed in turquoise-clear waters, and the central area of ​​​​Campo, immersed in greenery, where fertile nature and centuries-old labor of human hands made up a unique mosaic of forests, olive groves, vineyards and flower fields, which are especially amaze with fragrance and riot of colors in spring.

Unique nature, wonderful waters, lush vegetation, clean ecology, mountains and plains, beaches for every taste, rich European culture and traditional villages, delicious food from local products and magical sunsets accompanied by melodic Greek music - these are just a small part of what has attracted hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world since early spring to Zakynthos.

Zakynthos in winter

The proximity of the tropics affects here rainy weather in the winter months. There are even short-term periods when snow falls in mountainous regions, which, however, does not linger for a long time.

At this time, the island may seem deserted and sparsely inhabited, but it is not. Winter here is the height of harvesting olives and citrus fruits, planting the future harvest of vegetables and fruits, as well as preparing for the upcoming tourist season.

And, besides, in the winter, between Advent and Great, most of the popularly beloved Orthodox holidays here fall: Christmas, Christmas time, New Year, Epiphany, Carnival, Clean Monday and others. Winter, in my opinion, is the best time to get to know the simple Greek people better, to understand their soul a little: to stand at the Christmas service in the church, listen to children singing Christmas carols, sit in the evening by the hot burning fireplace in a cozy family tavern, where fishing tackle and trophies of its owner are hung on the walls among old photographs, treat him to local draft wine, or even something stronger. And in the hearth at this time, right on the grate, your dinner is fried - an impressive size of "brizol", which one is enough for four.

In the morning, to the sound of raindrops on the roof of the cafeteria on the embankment and the disturbing cries of seagulls, drink your morning “elliniko” or “cappuccino”, wrapping yourself warmly in a woolen blanket and looking at the “lambs” of waves hurrying along the winter sea to the shore ...

Zakynthos - monthly weather

Clue:

Zakynthos - monthly weather

What are the prices for holidays

In addition to accommodation, Zakynthos offers its guests many varieties of recreation and entertainment. Compared to the "promoted" Greek islands, such as Crete, and some others, designed mainly for fairly wealthy foreign guests, Zakynthos is more focused on middle-class tourists, mostly Greeks, who have traditionally chosen the Ionian archipelago since the middle of the 20th century. English and Italians.

This does not mean that the service on Zakynthos does not meet international standards, on the contrary, the inhabitants of the island surround each of their guests with attention and care, which are sometimes so lacking in international hotels spoiled by an abundance of tourists.

I do not consider myself a major connoisseur of expensive hotels: I have always tried to travel at reasonable prices, so I will try to offer readers budget options for holidays in Zakynthos.

Here, for example, it is quite possible to find a family studio for two just a stone's throw from the sea, with a small kitchen, a refrigerator, a shower, and a balcony for only 40–50 EUR per night. If desired, a baby bed will be added to the bedroom for the same price. In Greece, all types of premises rented to tourists are equipped with air conditioners.

A room in a small family hotel on the first line can cost starting from 60 EUR. Renting a small car will cost 35–40 EUR, and a bike 15–20 EUR per day. Dinner for two in a tavern may well fit into an amount not exceeding 50 EUR.

In the "high" season of July-August, it is worth adding another twenty percent to these prices. And, as I said, the ideal time to visit Greece, and Zakynthos in particular, I consider the velvet season of the first half of September, when prices for fresh food are quite significantly reduced.

Clue:

The cost of food, lodging, transportation, etc.

Currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub

Main attractions. What to see

For many centuries, Zakynthos, which, along with the other Ionian Islands, managed to escape the dark ages of Ottoman occupation, developed a rich culture under the influence of the Italian Renaissance and the European Enlightenment. The positive aspects of the Venetian rule was the formation of its own unique literature, painting, architecture and other arts on the island, thanks to which it even bore the name of "Southern Venice".

Freed from the influence of the Venetians, free Zakynthos at the beginning of the 19th century. became one of the strongholds of the national liberation movement throughout Hellas from the 400-year Turkish yoke. Here at one time even the headquarters of the secret society "Filiki Eteria" was located, into which the national heroes of Greece, Kolokotronis and Nikitaras, entered precisely on Zakynthos.

All this could not but be reflected in the works of literature and art. The island is the birthplace of the national poets of Greece Dionysios Solomos, Andreas Kavlos, the writer Grigoris Xenopoulos, as well as the Italian poet Nicholas Hugo Foscolo. And the heavenly patron of Zakynthos is St. Dionysius. In addition to him, in the north of Zakynthos, at one time, the patron saint of Kefalonia, St. Gerasim.

Top 5

I think that after visiting Zakynthos, each traveler will have his own top list of local attractions. But some of the following will be included in it for sure.

Bay of Navajo

If there is somewhere a list of the most photographed places in Hellas, then, undoubtedly, this sea bay in the north-west of the island with a ship thrown onto the sandy beach as a result of a shipwreck is one of its top five. Not a single sightseeing tour to Zakynthos is complete without a visit to Navajo Bay.

That is why I put it not only in the description of the beaches of the island, but also in the top five attractions. And you can get here only by sea on pleasure boats.

By the way, many tourists arriving in Zakynthos believe that they should go here as early as possible, until there is a large influx of tourists.

I must say that early morning is not the best choice for visiting the bay: at this time, most of the beach is in the shade.

In the daytime, here, although crowded, there is always a place both in the hot sun and in the shade of a giant ship.

Venetian fortress on top of Bohali

At the highest point of the peak dominating over the city of Zakynthos, crowning it like an eagle's nest, there is a place called Bokhali, from where, as if on a toy model under the feet of a fabulous architect, the capital of the island opens up to the Vasiliko peninsula and Laganas bay with the island of Marathonisi.

The passage of time and the earthquakes that literally tormented the city brought a lot of destruction to Zakynthos, but today a walk to the Venetian fortress along the narrow cobbled streets of the village of Bokhali among the fragrant greenery of gardens, shady pine groves and ancient olive trees, harmoniously contrasting with the bright spots of wild flowers, can serve as compensation.

Walking here, you begin to understand why it was in Zakynthos that the classic of Greek poetry Dionysios Solomos was born.

Bokhali was once a favorite area of ​​the local aristocracy, but today this place is chosen by tourists due to the magnificent views of the island from the top of the hill.

On the central square of the village, you can make a stop to have lunch, have a coffee or a cold drink, enjoying the amazing views.

To the left of the square is the picturesque Church of the Life-Giving Spring with a high bell tower, and going up further along the road that runs along the square, you can visit the Venetian castle of Bohali itself.

blue caves

It would be an unforgivable omission, having visited Zakynthos, not to visit, along with the bay of Navagio, this amazing natural formation, which is a suite of sea grottoes following one after another and descending under water, which can only be reached with the help of excursion boats.

Among the caves there are Great, and Malaya, and Cyanovaya, and they got their common name from the magnificent blue color of sea water.

The best time to visit is in the early morning, when the sunlight reflecting off the mirrored sea surface creates fantastic lace patterns on the inner walls of the caves, constantly changing and resonating with amazing kaleidoscopic patterns on the water mirror under the rocky vaults.

Mansion of Alexander Roma

The unique building of historical significance was erected in the middle of the 17th century. an English merchant and consul on the island, and during the British protectorate in the first half of the 19th century. served as the governor's residence.

In 1880, the mansion was purchased by the chairman of the Greek parliament, Alexander Roma. The building was severely damaged by the 1953 earthquake, but then it was restored in full.

Cross on Mount Schiza

Located in the traditional village of Kambi on Mount Schisa, it was erected in honor of all those who died in World War II and the Greek Civil War that followed. From the cliff where the attraction is located offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding coast with beaches.

There are several taverns and cafeterias in the village, from where, I advise you, to admire the amazing beauty of the sunsets, which are considered the most beautiful on the island.

Beaches. Which is better

The coastline of Zakynthos has a length of about 125 km.

Quite a large part of it in the north of the island is made up of steep rocky cliffs. The south is dominated by golden sandy beaches.

But this is what makes Zakynthos interesting, because small, cozy and mostly pebble beaches lost among the rocks, most of which can only be reached by sea on a rented or sightseeing boat, attract romantics and lovers of breathing wild unbridled nature.

Crystal clear, deep turquoise, the sea here is quite deep and much colder than in the southern regions, but the underwater terrain is much more interesting, which attracts many divers and snorkelers.

In the south of Zakynthos, sandy beaches with warm and shallow water prevail. It is in this part of the island that the coast, where the Caretta Caretta turtles come to lay eggs in summer, is carefully protected by the National Marine Park due to their great ecological importance.

In order to protect this rare species, there are certain restrictions that have made it possible to preserve the pristine beauty of the southern coast of Zakynthos, such as not being on the beaches after sunset or using your own umbrellas.

You also need to be prepared for the fact that at night the electric lighting is turned off on the entire coast, and on a moonless night it can be quite difficult to find your way to your car or hotel.

Navagio beach

Anyone who is at least a little interested in the island of Zakynthos, as a possible place for spending a summer vacation, is certainly already familiar in absentia with the Shipwreck Bay.

A lot of photographs of this wonderful place with golden sand that smoothly goes into turquoise sea water and a smuggler ship dominating the beach, as if washed ashore as a punishment, available on Internet travel sites and in paper guidebooks, create a mood of incredible romance and mystery for most visitors.

I can confirm: anyone arriving in Zakynthos is simply obliged to visit this splendor, which is actually more beautiful than any postcard or photograph.

But I can’t help but say something else: any beach on this stunning island has its own unique personality and special charm. And whatever you are looking for from your holiday in Zakynthos, it will surely satisfy your needs.

Kalamaki

Covered with fine golden sand, stretching in both directions as far as the eye can see, this vast beach is one of the most popular in Zakynthos due to its proximity to the city and crystal clear calm waters.

It is a favorite place of the Caretta Caretta turtle, so you should pay special attention here! Umbrellas and sun loungers are concentrated here only in a few points. In order not to damage the egg laying, it is allowed to use your own umbrella no closer than 5 m from the water.

Daphne

A truly heavenly place in a beautiful bay, lost on the coast among the hills of the Vasilikos peninsula covered with greenery. Golden sandy beach with vegetation descending to the sea.

And a little to the side - another wild beach under an overhanging stone cliff, where you can wade through shallow water to feel as if you were abandoned on a desert island, similar to the picturesque island of Peluso, which can be seen at a distance in the sea.

Here is one of the best places in Zakynthos for snorkeling, to feel yourself in an endless natural aquarium with fish of different colors and sizes.

Gerakas

This beach in a picturesque and cozy bay at the very tip of the Vasilikos peninsula is one of the most protected in Zakynthos.

Here it is not allowed to use not only your own umbrella, but also a sunbed, located in strictly designated places.

Banana

On the opposite side of the Daphni coast of the Vasilikos peninsula, against the backdrop of amazingly beautiful natural scenery, there is the largest and one of the most organized Banana Beach on the island with restaurants, cafes, beach bars, offering umbrellas, sun loungers, rental of various equipment for practicing water sports and truly unlimited opportunities for recreation and pleasure for every taste, age and wallet size.

Here it is quite possible to find a place to spread a towel on the hot sand or stretch out under an umbrella in a comfortable sun lounger, slowly sipping a cocktail, surrounded by beautiful sand dunes that change their shape and size depending on the strength and direction of the winds blowing here. Thanks to these winds and the sea that is open to the horizon, this beach enjoys constant attention and popularity among surfers.

Agios Nikolaos

On a pointed rocky cape, which ends the grand coast of Banana, the snow-white church of St. Nicholas, and right behind it, sheltered by a rock from the sea winds, there is a small but quite popular beach of the same name.

Fine sand, the purest sea water are complemented here on the one hand by a beach restaurant, a bar, umbrellas, sun loungers, water sports entertainment, loud music and everything that enthusiasts of active life cannot do without, and on the other hand, a quiet corner with a traditional tavern on the beach for fans of relaxation and peace.

The beach of Agios Nikolaos, located in the south of Zakynthos, which bears the name of the nearby church, should not be confused with the village of the same name in its north, from where pleasure ferries depart for Kefalonia.

Porto Zoro

Is it possible to wish for more pleasure on vacation than to go down every morning, barely waking up and meeting the sun rising from the sea, to a compact and comfortable beach located twenty steps from the hotel, in order to indulge in plenty on the hot golden sand by the infinitely gentle, warm and gentle sea.

And then, after enjoying both the sun and the sea, take a shower in your room and have a delicious lunch in the hotel restaurant, after which pay tribute to the Greek siesta under the air conditioning in a cozy room. In the evening, spend the sun setting behind the mountains, sipping a cocktail in the saving evening coolness on the balcony of your room.

Anyone who dreams of such a vacation, I can advise you to spend it in the Porto Zorro Beach Hotel, located right on the beach of the same name, offering, among other things, an all-inclusive service. The cost of living starts from 90 EUR per night.

Tsilivi

At 6 km from the city of Zakynthos, literally at the distance of one breath, there is a large, somewhat reminiscent of Hawaiian, shallow sandy beach. Here on the agenda, mainly in the second half, there is always a strong wind and foamy waves, which is especially appreciated by fans of kite and windsurfing.

The beach is quite well organized, equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, there is also a beach bar, and in the surrounding areas there are many supermarkets, shops, taverns, bars and restaurants.

Proximity to the city, well-developed infrastructure, shallow sea and fine sandy coast make this place the most suitable for families with children, water sports with them and endless fun playing with the waves.

Alykes

Another beach with fine sand and blue water. Here you can rent an umbrella and sunbed or use your own. Like the coast of Tsilivi, it is ideal for both family vacations and active water sports, including windsurfing and kite surfing.

Pleasure and sightseeing boats depart from here to the Blue Caves and Navajo Bay, the journey to which will take much less time than from other areas of the island.

The embankment of a small river flowing into the sea with a picturesque stone bridge across it enjoys constant popularity among tourists. The village near the beach has all the necessary infrastructure for vacationers: shops, taverns, restaurants, bars, hotels and apartments.

For those who want to live almost on the beach 10 meters from the sea and at the same time save on accommodation, I can advise you to pay attention to the Alykes campsite, located in a picturesque and shady olive grove. The cost of accommodation starts from 6.6 EUR per night for one adult and 3.50 for a child. Car parking - 3.50, and motorbike - 2.50 EUR.

Porto Limnionas

More like a Norwegian fjord, a narrow and long double bay with rocky shores, rather cold water and several underwater grottoes, great for swimming and snorkeling.

In the depths of the bay there is a tiny pebble beach, and on a high rock above it there is a wonderful tavern with a magnificent view of the sea.

Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit

Despite the centuries-old domination of the Venetian Catholics over the island, the inhabitants of Zakynthos did not betray Byzantine Orthodoxy, faithfully remaining faithful to its traditions, and carefully observing all the rites and rituals.

Churches, temples and monasteries, repeatedly destroyed either by the elements or by conquerors, were meticulously restored to the smallest detail in order to again bring the light of Christianity to the inhabitants of the island.

Church of St. Dionysius

Built shortly before the 1953 earthquake, this largest cathedral on Zakynthos became one of the three buildings on the island that not only survived that terrible natural disaster, but also received absolutely no damage.

Today it is the main cathedral of Zakynthos, thanks to the high 40-meter bell tower on the embankment, which has become a kind of landmark and hallmark of the main city of the island.

The interior of the temple is no less impressive: marble columns, numerous lives on frescoes and icons, colored stained-glass windows, a carved wooden altar with a gilded iconostasis, magnificent chandeliers, seats trimmed with red velvet and a silver shrine with the relics of a saint. Dionysius was born in Zakynthos in 1547. Being a descendant of an aristocratic family, he received a good Christian and secular education, speaking several languages. But after the death of his parents, he becomes a monk, spending the last years of his life in the monastery of Anafonitria on Zakynthos, where he lied the only time in his life in order to hide the murderer of his brother, for which he received the nickname of the Holy All-Forgiving.

Church of the Blessed Virgin Faneromeni

Relating to the most beautiful Greek churches, this one, XV century. buildings, the Cathedral of the Virgin "Appeared" along with the amazing bell tower was destroyed by an earthquake, but then restored in accordance with the original plan.

The surviving frescoes of the old temple are kept in the Museum of Byzantine Art. During the years of Venetian rule, Faneromeni Square was a place for the urban poor, in contrast to St. Mark, where the aristocrats gathered.

Church of the Blessed Virgin "Keriotissa"

This amazing and carefully maintained church with an impressive bell tower, located in the village of Keri, was built under the Venetians and was restored three times in its history after destruction.

It is famous not only for its wonderful facade, which is decorated with magnificent architectural elements, but most of all for the miraculous icon of the Mother of God inside.

Monastery of the Holy Anafonitria

This monastery is of exceptional importance for Zakynthos, because the patron saint of the island, Dionysius, spent the last years of his life here.

Built in the XV century. the monastery has a shady courtyard with a garden full of flowers, conducive to tranquility and solitude. Inside the monastery church there is an ancient icon of the Mother of God, taken out of Constantinople captured by the Turks.

Monastery of St. George "Gremnonsky"

In the region of Gremnon, famous for its wild natural beauty, the monastery of St. George, which was founded in 1535 as a refuge for Orthodox hermits.

A little later, in order to protect the monastery from pirate raids, an impressive tower was erected, which has now become a favorite subject for photographing visitors.

The monastery once housed a rich library of Orthodox manuscripts.

Moving from the monastery in the direction of Ano Volimes and turning sharply to the left at the sign, you can find a viewing platform to admire from above a magnificent view of the sea and the bay of Navagio.

Church of St. Nicholas "Molos"

This is a building built during the Venetian times, which is part of the ensemble of Solomu Square in the center of Zakynthos, which not only survived the earthquake of 1953, but also the fire that followed it.

The significance of this temple for the island, in addition to miraculous salvation from the elements, also lies in the fact that the patron saint of Zakynthos Dionysius served as a parish priest here.

Museums. Which are worth a visit

The island of Zakynthos has a rich centuries-old history, reflected in its museums, some of which I will describe below.

Museum of Byzantine Art

Upon entering the Byzantine Museum, the layout of the city of Zakynthos before the terrible earthquake of 1953, made on the basis of old photographs, immediately catches your eye, which makes it possible to imagine what the capital of the island once was.

Among the exhibits of the museum there are also many photographs showing the view of historical buildings before and after the earthquake.

The main exposition presents Byzantine icons, magnificent wooden sculptures, marble decorations of temples, church utensils for liturgies, candlesticks, shrines, frescoes and iconostases of the 15th-17th centuries.

Among the most significant exhibits are also paintings by artists who created the local school of painting, covering the time frame from the post-Byzantine period to the present day.

Also here you can see real Orthodox shrines, secretly taken out during the Turkish rule from the occupied territories to the local temples of free Zakynthos, and when they were destroyed by an earthquake, they found their place in the museum's exposition.

Maritime Museum "Milanio"

A visit to the museum, founded by the famous Greek marine painter, a native of Zakynthos, Adonis Milanos, can impress anyone even slightly familiar with the history of Hellas, because its collection consists of genuine historical relics, kindly offered by the descendants of such legendary figures as Laskarina Bouboulina, Miltiadis Yatridis and others.

The museum exposition is divided into five thematic sections according to historical eras: antiquity, the Byzantine Empire, the Revolution of 1821, the ΧΙΧ and ΧΧ centuries: many unique photographs, ship models, naval uniforms, daggers, medals, compasses and much more. For example, here are objects from the Greek destroyer "Leon", the former American "Eldridge", which allegedly took part in the Philadelphia experiment, which is widely discussed to this day.

In addition, the exposition features more than 140 amazingly detailed and detailed paintings that depict ships from different eras. Another similar exhibition of marine paintings by Adonis Milanos is located in the Museum of the Merchant and Navy in the city of Piraeus.

Grigorios Xenopoulos Museum

The museum, located on Gaita Street, is dedicated to the famous Greek prose writer and playwright, one of the creators of the urban novel genre in European bourgeois literature, G. Xenopoulos.

Here you can see the personal belongings of the writer, manuscripts and editions of his works, photographs, as well as furniture and other household items in the interior of the house that belonged to his family.

Helmi Museum of Natural History

Founded by Panagiotis Helmi in the village of Agia Marina and bearing his name, the museum is designed primarily for children.

More than 3,000 exhibits are presented here, telling about the flora and fauna of both Zakynthos itself and the whole world.

The purpose of the museum is to acquaint visitors with the unique ecosystem of Zakynthos, inherited from nature, which we are obliged to preserve for posterity.

The Helmi Museum is recognized as one of the most complete and best such collections both in Greece and in the Balkans as a whole.

Ethnographic Museum of Vertzio

At the entrance to this museum, located in the village of Pigadakya, there is a feeling of time stopped, because its exposition lovingly collected by local residents represents more than 200 years of history and way of life of villages lost in the mountainous regions of Zakynthos.

The bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining room of a traditional village dwelling are shown with all the utilitarian items and tools for housekeeping, cooking and other daily tasks both inside and outside the house. Old newspapers, geographical maps, coins represent the smallest trifles of everyday life, and the flour-grinding equipment, grape or olive oil presses on display show the traditional occupations of the islanders.

parks

Marine park-reserve

Located in the southern part of Zakynthos, the largest sea bay, Laganas, due to its unique ecological significance, qualifies as a specially protected area. In order to better protect the flora and fauna and their habitat, in 1999 the National Marine Park of Zakynthos was established here. Its foundation was caused by an urgent need, since rare species of wild animals in this part of the Ionian Sea were under the threat of extinction.

Today, the southern coast of Zakynthos, which is a favorite breeding ground for the rare Caretta-Caretta or Loggerhead loggerhead turtle, and the western coast, where the endangered Mediterranean white-bellied Monachus-Monachus seals find refuge, are the object of special care.

The marine park includes the coast, water area and islands of the Gulf of Laganas, as well as the Strofades archipelago located 20 miles south of Zakynthos. These areas are characterized by different types of ecosystems, both of national and European importance, including, among others, dune and coastal zones, as well as grassy meadows on the marshy shores of Lake Keri, where hundreds of species of flora and fauna occur.

The entire water area of ​​Laganas Bay is divided into zones indicated by buoys:

Specially protected, where any passage of ships and fishing are prohibited.

Speed ​​limit up to 6 knots and anchoring prohibition.

The speed limit remains, but anchoring is permitted.

Thus, the movement of high-speed motor boats is prohibited in the entire water area of ​​​​Laganas Bay. There is also an absolutely protected zone A1, where it is allowed to stay only for scientific activities.

Askos Rock Park

Here you can see in a natural habitat, complemented by artificial decorations of stone buildings that could have existed here in the Neolithic era, hundreds of animals living freely in natural conditions: mammals, birds, amphibians, insects, as well as many species of native plants, shrubs and trees.

The park is open all year round except on very rainy or cold winter days. There is no time limit for visiting during park opening hours. Photographing and video filming is allowed. Tours are conducted by qualified guides, or you can take a printed booklet and explore the area on your own.

Guests of the park can also follow and even, under the guidance of a mentor, take part in any activities on its territory, such as picking olives, milking goats, etc.

The Askos Stone Park is located one kilometer from the port of Agios Nikolaos, located on the northern coast of Zakynthos, and five from the traditional settlement of Volimes. The Blue Caves are 3 km from here, and Navajo Bay is 8 km away. The capital of the island is 30 km from the park.

nearby islands

The closest island from the Ionian archipelago to Zakynthos is the cosmopolitan and magnificent Kefalonia, which certainly deserves a separate big story. Here I will talk about two miniature islands in Laganas Bay, which are extremely popular with tourists.

Marathonisi

A small island in Laganas Bay near the Keri Peninsula, which looks like a turtle, which is why it has the second name Turtle. You can get here by boat from the villages of Laganas, Keri and Agios Sostis.

As one of the nesting sites for turtles, Caretta Caretta is protected by the National Marine Park, so staying on the island is limited only to daytime hours.

There are two beaches - pebbly and sandy, as well as several sea grottoes that are worth exploring. There are no shops here, but a boat approaches the beaches with a small canteen serving snacks and drinks.

Peluso

Located on the other side of Laganas Bay, about 2 miles from Daphne Beach. Except for one ruined building on the very shore, there are no other traces of human presence here.

The island is a specially protected area where it is forbidden to stay after sunset, as well as swimming with a motor - only on oars. Having rented a boat, I advise you to load a supply of drinking water and food into it.

There is a beach with fine white sand, and on the opposite side of the island there is a rather large cave.

Food. What to try

Zakynthos is one of the most fertile places in Greece and produces the widest range of local products. The local food is based on extremely healthy, satisfying and, most importantly, unusually tasty Mediterranean cuisine.

As in all the Ionian Islands, fans of Italian cuisine, which has had a considerable influence on local culinary traditions, will be able to amuse their gastronomic passions in Zakynthos.

It will not be difficult to find an institution that serves English, French, and other cuisines of the world, dishes.

Budget institutions

In most cities and villages of Hellas, you can see establishments called “psitopolio”, where meat is spun on a spit for the Greek analogue of shawarma, the so-called “Gyro”. And you should discard any negative experience associated with Russian railway stalls and cafes near the railway station. I have never heard of poisoning with this dish in Greece.

And you should try it here - it is quite tasty, and can satisfy your hunger for a long time. Moreover, you can take a “gyro” with you in a bag, or eat it calmly at a table with a bottle of beer or a glass of wine. It will only cost a little more. In fast food establishments you can also have a snack "on the go": a salad bar, cold and hot sandwiches are always at your service. Here, and, in addition, in any bakery, hot and very tasty puff pastry pies with soft cheese are sold in the morning: “tiropita”, “spanakopita” and others like them. "Pita", as many have already guessed, means pie in Greek.

Medium establishments

Although I place the famous Greek taverns in the mid-range category, I consider their products to be the pinnacle of simple, hearty and tasty food.

Taverns are usually divided into meat and fish, although some dishes can be found here and there. One rule - you will not find meat dishes in the fish tavern. But there are always enough delicious dishes.

One tip: always choose a tavern where the largest number of local Greeks sit - they will never go to a bad establishment.

Expensive establishments

This can include large fashionable restaurants serving international cuisine.

You rarely surprise anyone like this now - they are everywhere, so think: was it worth it to go to Greece to eat the same as in Moscow, St. Petersburg, or anywhere else!

Holidays

In addition to national holidays, there are many local holidays in Zakynthos that follow centuries-old traditions and rituals. So, from August 23 to 26, as well as from December 16 to 19, dedicated to St. Dionysius celebrations with solemn processions, attracting thousands of believers to honor the holy elder and bow to his relics.

But there are amazing traditions of pan-Greek holidays on the island, attracting thousands of Hellenes from other parts of the country to see how they are celebrated by the islanders.

Easter

So, on Palm Sunday before Holy Week, which in Greece is called palm Sunday, crosses, solar disks, horses, frames for bouquets are weaved from narrow and long date leaves, sometimes showing miracles in the skill of their manufacture.

Carnival

The traditions of the Greek Carnival in Zakynthos fully mixed with the Venetian ones, creating an unusual folk festival, unlike any other.

Grandiose processions present the humorous "Venetian Wedding", "Tiny Carnival", performances of "Dialogues" and "Commedia dell'Arte" in different places of the city, and the satirical "Funeral of the Mask" will complete everything.

And this is only a small part of the grandiose and cheerful week-long festivities before the start of Lent.

Safety. What to watch out for

Serious crimes on the Greek islands during the tourist season are extremely rare. Petty thefts happen sometimes, as elsewhere, but their authors are most often foreign seasonal workers of hotels and taverns.

What should be especially careful with the Greeks - carefully check all bills and checks in shops and catering establishments. It is not considered a great sin to cheat a client here. The law of trade - big business cheats in a big way, small business - in a small way!

Things to do

When I am asked this question in Greece, I always answer: “Live and enjoy nature!” And the island of Zakynthos provides all the conditions for this, regardless of preferences, temperament, temperament and wallet size. Since the chance to visit a real paradise fell out during earthly life, you should not miss it!

By the way, another feature of Zakynthos, which I cannot but tell you about, is that when it is windy in one part of it, it is usually calm and quiet in the other. This allows, having learned the weather forecast, literally “on the go” to change plans for the current day: go in search of adventure by boat to explore the caves and rocky bays of the island, go by rented car to explore the mountainous regions and villages of its central part, or serenely bask on the sandy beach , paying tribute to epicureanism and hedonism. What else to do on vacation?

I think that tourists in Zakynthos will be able to easily find suitable boat trips to Navajo Bay, the Blue Caves, and the attractions of the Marine Park as day trips. But not only the coast is of interest here: trips to the central mountainous regions of the island can become no less informative for travelers tired of sea baths.

extreme sports

Fans of an active lifestyle and unusual sports will find all the conditions for their activities in Zakynthos.

Base jumping, wind and kite surfing, diving and snorkeling, yachting, mountain biking, mountaineering and rock climbing - all this can be indulged in here to the fullest.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Despite the fact that the set of souvenirs recommended below is quite traditional for any Greek island, it will not disappoint you at all with its routine. After all, here even two seemingly identical products from neighboring regions can radically differ from each other, having an unsurpassed local flavor.

Olive oil

Transportation of olive oil in luggage is associated with certain difficulties both in its packaging and during customs clearance, so I rarely advise you to carry it to Russia from Greece.

But Zakynthos oil, grown on homemade olive plantations and pressed almost by hand at family oil mills, is distinguished by a special, incomparable taste of the sun and the warmth of human hands. And the harvest begins in November and by spring, fresh oil goes on sale.

Wine

Most of the local wines are produced by the inhabitants of the island at home, but there are also companies such as Inolpi (Οινολπη) or Art&Wine, which bottle it on an industrial scale.

The grape harvest begins in August, and in September fresh wine appears on sale.

Cheese

Local cheese made from goat's and sheep's milk, preserved in olive oil, has a characteristic salty taste and belongs to the category of hard varieties.

Honey

Many inhabitants of Zakynthos have their own beehives and produce extremely delicious mountain honey.

Sweets

In addition to the many traditional oriental sweets available in every confectionery of the island, here you can also buy typical island types of nougat, marshmallows and others, such as Mandolato, Fitura, Pasteli, products most often produced during local holidays.

Ceramics

There are many pottery workshops in Zakynthos, where fine products are made by hand. The technology of their manufacture and the technique of traditional painting have existed here since Byzantine times, and manual production makes each product unique.

In some places, masters allow not only to observe the process of their work, but also to participate in it.

Shopping and shops

On a small island whose life is devoted to tourism in summer and agriculture in winter, you will not find large hypermarkets or trendy boutiques. Its inhabitants provide themselves with a full range of products themselves, and even supply them to neighboring regions.

Most souvenir shops both on the coast and in the mountain villages offer products, 90% of which are dedicated to the famous sea turtles. But among the remaining 10% you can find quite elegant and unique things. It can be ceramics, traditional embroidery or something like that, whoever is lucky in what.

I recommend everyone to definitely visit jewelry stores on the islands, from where, I am sure, you will not leave without a gift for yourself or your loved ones. And it doesn't have to be gold. Greek jewelers know how to make and make amazing silver gizmos, jewelry from amber, gems and other, sometimes completely unconventional materials.

By the way, I must say that the art of Greek furriers is also known far beyond the borders of Hellas. Very high quality products made of genuine leather and fur are made here. Leather shoes bought in an inconspicuous semi-basement shop may well turn out to be no worse than Italian ones in quality.

Zakynthos - holidays with children

The most grateful guests of Zakynthos are usually children, for whom this is truly a heavenly place: gentle sea, hot sun, dense vegetation, amazing excursions to Navajo Bay and the Blue Caves, visiting interesting museums such as Milanio or Helmi, acquaintance with rare species of marine animals in the Marine National Park and land - in the Park of Stones. And, most importantly, a real abundance of the freshest fruits, vegetables and simply delicious food.

From the experience of raising my children, I can confirm: such trips remain in the memory of the baby for life, bringing him closer to his parents and making him feel like a truly full-fledged member of the family.

Ski holidays

conditional areas. Descriptions and features

Every traveler who has ever visited Zakynthos has his own idea of ​​which part of the island to prefer for living. Those who want to spend time on the beach, fully surrendering to the sun and the sea, will most likely choose the southern part of the island - the areas of Laganas and Kalamaki. Adherents of an active lifestyle and mountain and sea sports will probably choose to live in the central or northern part of Zakynthos: the villages of Mikro-Nisi, Alykes, etc.

Personally, I don’t really like to live in the Greek islands near the port and city center, preferring quiet villages on the coast, where there are not many tourists, affordable prices and a patriarchal way of life.

Argassi

A five-minute drive from the capital of the island towards the beautiful peninsula of Vassilikos is the tourist resort of Argasi, where you can spend the whole day on an amazing sandy beach with crystal clear waters, ideal for families with children.

In the southern part of the beach, the remains of the old Venetian bridge attract everyone's attention, who knows how to get here.

Also in the vicinity of Argasi there is an amazing church of Panagia Skopiotissa, built in 1624, standing in the ruins of an old ruined monastery. And in antiquity, this place was the temple of Artemis.

On the central road of the village there are many shops, supermarkets, clubs, bars, restaurants, taverns and cafes, and in general everything that you may need on vacation, as well as taste dishes of Greek, Italian and international cuisines of the world.

Despite the outward patriarchy and calmness, in the Argasi area there are some of the best nightly youth bars of Zakynthos and popular clubs with Greek music.

Thanks to its favorable location near the main town of Zakynthos, the proximity to the sea and the beaches of the Vasilikos peninsula, peace and quiet, but at the same time, nightlife establishments make this resort an ideal place to stay and explore the island.

Argasi provides a variety of accommodation options from simple apartments and suites to luxurious villas and international hotels. For my part, I can recommend a small, located five steps from the beach "ALAS Beach Hotel".

It may well serve as a base for a stay in Zakynthos and a comprehensive study of it, and combining all this with a wonderful opportunity to take sun and sea baths at any time of the day.

Rest in such a place can remain in memory for a lifetime.

Volimes

This, in fact, consisting of two parts: Upper and Lower, the picturesque settlement can, without exaggeration, be called the capital of the mountain villages of Zakynthos. It is located in a natural environment of stunning landscape beauty and rich vegetation. The road here lies between pine forests, olive groves, vineyards and fields of cereals and vegetable crops, and from above, the eye continually grabs a lacy rocky coast, indented with many crevices, where tiny beaches and an endless turquoise sea are hidden to the horizon.

In the Upper Village - Ano Volimes you can admire the traditional architecture of the mountain villages of Greece with invariably narrow streets and an old stone church with a bell tower.

From the Lower - Kato Volimes village you can easily go down to the coast with the beaches of Xigio, Makris Gialos, and Agios Nikolaos.

There is also the amazing Askos Rock Park, which is described in more detail in the corresponding section, the church of Agia Paraskevi with stunning frescoes, and boats depart from the beaches of Makris Gialos and Agios Nikolaos to Navajo Bay and the Blue Caves.

And the best way to end your trip to Volimes, I think, would be a good dinner in one of the small and cozy local taverns. The food and wine here is exclusively from the freshest, locally produced organic products and, trust me, it will be another pleasant memory of this trip.

Carey

The village of Keri on the peninsula of the same name, located 19 km from the capital of Zakynthos, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, has a rich history and carefully preserved traditions. As they say, at one time the ancient Greek historian Herodotus lived here.

The clean sandy beach, which overlooks the island of Marathonisi, is the best suited for an unforgettable family holiday with children and romantic couples in love.

There are many taverns in the waterfront area, where there is always the opportunity to get to know traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Here, in a small port on the coast, you can rent a boat to move to the island of Marathonisi or go on an excursion to the nearby caves at Cape Keri.

Also, vacationers offer their services in organized and safe diving at the nearest points of the coast diving club.

Features of the mentality

For millennia, Zakynthos has been at the historical crossroads of all parts of the world, the endless movement of peoples and the interpenetration of cultures. The most significant influence on him in the Middle Ages was, of course, more than three centuries of being under the rule of Venice, from which the islanders never abandoned their attempts to free themselves. Here, for example, in 1628, one of the first revolutionary uprisings in Europe broke out, sunk by the Venetians in blood, but remaining forever in the memory of the people.

Love of freedom, patriotism, respect for folk traditions, devotion to Orthodox Christianity - these features, characteristic of any Greek, are expressed in the inhabitants of Zakynthos no less. And some ostentatious cosmopolitanism, Italian words in the local dialect, a little more openness and bravado, sharpness and irony make up the colorful shades of the local folk character, which can be anything, but never boring.

5 things to do in this region

I am sure that everyone who is planning a trip to Zakynthos included in her program a trip to Navajo Bay, a boat trip to the Blue Caves, and an ascent to the Venetian fortress on the hill of Bokhali, and acquaintance with the famous sea turtles Caretta-Caretta on Geraka beach. To select other points of your trip, I think the recommendations in this article of mine are enough. But even its decent volumes were not enough to describe everything more or less worthy of acquaintance on this wonderful island.

1. Try stewed country rooster in red wine sauce with homemade noodles (“kokkora krasato me macarunes”)
2. Visit the famous confectionery "MΑΝΤΟΛΑΤΟ" in the capital of the island, located next to the Aegli Hotel at Lomvardu 12, to taste traditional local sweets produced on the spot.
3. Take a horse ride in the picturesque surroundings of the village of Planos, which is located above the beach of Tsilivi. Inexperienced riders can take riding lessons here, and for children there are calm Scottish ponies.
4. Those who are lucky enough to relax in Zakynthos in July should visit the concerts of the annual jazz festival, which gathers musicians not only from Greece, but also from Germany, France, and other countries.
5. Sit in the Votsalo tavern in Marathias on the west coast of Laganas Bay, enjoying the combination of amazing sea views and the unique aroma of Greek cuisine. The walls of the tavern, the columns and the floors themselves are interesting in the technique of traditional decoration, like a mosaic, with sea pebbles.

Taxi. What features exist

In Greece, a single tariff for taxi services is established by law. But the island taxi drivers, spoiled by an abundance of tourists, pretend that they do not know him. And arguing with them is usually useless, even a statement to the tourist police of the island most often does not help: many islanders are related to each other.

Therefore, before getting into a taxi at the parking lot near the port or somewhere in the city, you should ask the driver for the approximate price of the future trip, and, after getting into the car, make sure that he turns on the meter. And you should not walk around the parking lot in search of a cheaper option. You probably won't find it! Trade union solidarity is more important than personal gain. Conclusion - it is best to come to terms with the proposed circumstances! Sometimes it is cheaper to rent a car from the nearest Rent-a-Car office.

The car ordered by phone comes with the counter already turned on, on which there may be a considerable amount - this should also be foreseen. And do not be surprised when, having taken a car at the port, you will wait a long time for the start of the trip, watching how the driver picks up a full cabin of passengers - these are the local rules and traditions. At the same time, the cost of the trip is not divided between clients - each new arrival will pay the full amount according to the counter. But, taking a car as a couple, family or company, pay only one tariff.

And if you already got into the car, talk to the driver, admire the beauties of Greece and Zakynthos, take a business card from him with a phone - you see, next time he will reduce the price of the “old friend” a little.

Public transport

Buses of the local island network depart from the station ΚΤΕΛ of the main city of the island to its other settlements: Laganas, Kalamaki, Argasi, Vasiliko, Tsilivi, Porto Roma, Volimes, Agrilia, passing along the road past the popular beaches described above.

The ticket price for all flights is 1.80 EUR, except for the mountain route to Volimes - 3.60 EUR.

Transport rental

It is not difficult to rent a car or motorbike in Greece in the summer. The prices for these services are quite democratic, starting from 30–40 EUR for a car and from 20 for a motorcycle. For quad bike enthusiasts who have traveled only on the plains before, I advise you to be extremely careful - narrow mountain roads can be extremely treacherous!

To rent, you only need an international driver's license, and that the experience is not less than 1 year. A customer's credit card immediately makes the staff be much more polite and courteous. Be sure to take a map of the island and a business card with the phone number of the company from the office. The phone number of the insurer is usually specified in the rental agreement.

You can see offers from different distributors.

In the tourist areas of Greece, it is tacitly accepted that pedestrians, cyclists and bikers have an advantage in traffic. Therefore, be prepared to trail at a snail's pace for a group of tourists walking right in the middle of the road. And honking is considered bad manners.

Three-quarters of the territory of Zakynthos are mountainous areas, although not the steepest and most dangerous in Greece, but nevertheless requiring careful and attentive driving.

You also need to be extremely careful on the narrow streets of mountain villages. Very often the road here after a sharp turn can sharply go up or down. I am constantly surprised in such places by Greek bus drivers who manage to drive through the streets where, it would seem, even one pedestrian must give way to another in order to disperse.

Also aggregation of prices from all distributors, all in one place, let's go!

Have something to add?

Zakynthos is a beautiful island, a true gem of the Greek crown of islands. Its excellent beaches, the unique Caretta-Caretta turtles, the incredible color of the sea water, the old mansions of the Venetian era and the picturesque Navagio Bay, the symbol of the island, attract thousands of tourists every year.

Zakynthos belongs to the group of the Ionian Islands, it is located near the Peloponnese peninsula (between them 9.5 nautical miles) and 8.5 nautical miles is the island of Kefalonia. More than 40 thousand people live on the territory of 406 square meters.

The city of Zakynthos is the capital of the island. Thanks to the old Venetian-style mansions, decorated with graceful loggias, arched galleries, intricate patterns of paved roads, beautiful squares, it looks like a medieval city. Here you should definitely visit Bochali - a Venetian castle with its special atmosphere, as well as Strani Hill. It was here that Dionysios Solomos, the famous Greek poet, wrote the famous Hymn to Freedom.

The island is rich in various tourist destinations, popular with guests from all over the world, including the stunning Cape Laganas. However, in addition, it is worth visiting numerous other locations, without which the names "Flower of the Levante" and "South Venice" would not have developed in relation to Zakynthos. After enjoying the exotic sandy beaches, picturesque rocky bays, go to see the Kerya lighthouse in the village of Keri, and Ano Gerakaki, from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings. The mountain settlements of Ekso Hora, Orfonies, Volimes are hidden in rich pine thickets, but it is here that the tourist will see the national houses of the locals, feel the enchanting atmosphere of life in small settlements.

The east coast of the island is an ideal choice for a family holiday. There are numerous beautiful beaches covered with soft warm sand, blue sea water is crystal clear. Fresh greenery surrounding the territory fills the air with aromas. Nearby there are various taverns where you can relax with a delicious lunch and a glass of local wine.

The western lands, strewn with rocks, differ. Here you can enjoy the exquisite beauties of the island, but getting to the beaches is problematic. Those who managed to reach the sea should be careful in the water because of the stones and rock fragments. So it will be dangerous to go here with children.

Gerakas is the beach of Zakynthos, which has become a real attraction of the island. Children will like it here, because it is here that you can meet cute inhabitants - sea turtles. Animals get out directly to people, so the kids will remember such a trip forever. This place is also known for clay sculptures created by the elements.

Laganas Beach has been declared a national park because it is home to the unique Caretta-Caretta turtles. In order not to harm the animals, the movement of boats is prohibited in the waters of the bay. It is worth noting that you will not be able to watch the turtles around the clock: the beach closes half an hour before sunset.

Attractions Zakynthos

The first settlers in the capital of the island of Zakynthos appeared in ancient times. A major earthquake of the last century, which destroyed many buildings, nevertheless left many beautiful monuments of history and culture, so tourists can meet them while walking around the city.

Metropolitan Venetian mansions attract attention with their exquisite architecture, decorative elements, loggias and arches, as well as bright ocher-colored walls. While walking around Zakynthos, it is worth visiting the monastery of St. Dionysius from the 16th century. It has been preserved almost in its original form. The monastery keeps the relics of the patron saint of Zakynthos. According to the legends of local residents, at night Dionysius makes a round of the island.

The central square of Platiya Solomu accommodated two sights at once. Here is a monument to Dionysius Solas, as well as the church of St. Nicholas. In addition, the Byzantine Museum is located on the main square of the city, the collection of which includes unique monuments of church painting of the Greeks, covering the period from antiquity to the end of the 19th century. Damascus, Doxaras, Dzanes, Koutuzis, Kallergis - the works of these masters are a vivid example of the iconography of Zakynthos. The museum also houses sculptures from the Hellenistic period and the Byzantine era, which will be interesting for tourists to see.

St. Mark's Cathedral is located on the square of the same name, where you can also visit the museum of the poet D. Solomonos and other famous residents of Zakynthos. Walking along Filicon Street, the church of St. George attracts attention. This is a famous architectural monument that played an important role in the independence of the Greek state. Filiki Eteria, a secret club that organized the uprising of 1821, swore allegiance precisely within the walls of this church.

There is a Venetian fortress on Bokhari hill. Once on this place stood the acropolis of Psofis, the building of the era of Ancient Greece. However, the Venetian rulers destroyed the building almost to the ground. The fortress was built for several centuries: the first stones were laid in the 12th century, and the final work was carried out only in 1646. The size of the fortress is not its only striking feature. The sophistication and conciseness of the details is really amazing. For many years it was the central defensive point that saved the island from pirate raids, so the air is still saturated with a military spirit. In addition to historical importance, tourists will be interested in visiting the fortress for the incredible view of Zakynthos from the top of the hill.

You can feel the greatness of the sea element in the Maritime Museum of Milano, which is located in the village of Tsilivi. The exposition contains comprehensive information about the centuries-old events of Greek navigation. The Verdzaio Agricultural Museum will tell about the life and customs of the Greek farmers, reveal the secrets of the traditions of the island's population. The tourist will be able to see household items, furniture, as well as handicrafts of Zakynthos masters. The age of individual objects of the collection is 400 years. Another museum famous on the island is the Helmis Museum of Natural History, the exposition of which includes about 500 exhibits that reveal the special world of animals, plants of the island, and unique species that live here.

At a short distance from Zakynthos, in the mountains, is the Church of the Virgin Anafonitria. This church memorial is interesting for its history of appearance. Legends say that a local resident of the 15th century discovered an icon that emitted rays of light in waves. On the site of this wonderful discovery, a church and a monastery were erected with it.

The 13th century Metamorfosi Sotiros Monastery, which stands on the neighboring island of Stampanio, was partially restored after a devastating earthquake in the 50s of the 20th century.

The Mycenaean burials, whose age exceeds 4 millennia, are unique. The graves at Campi are still of interest to scientists around the world. They are located above the sea caves, and the artifacts found here have become the most important historical discovery.

Cuisine of Zakynthos

Local dishes are an example of how Greek cuisine can amaze the imagination. Traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients make each dish a true feast of taste. The most important ingredient of the local cuisine is, of course, olive oil. Tomatoes, lemons, fragrant garlic and various seasonings are also often used, saturating the food with wonderful smells.

It is better to look for real local cuisine further from the iconic places of the island. It is there that taverns serve truly traditional dishes, albeit not as quickly as in the center of the capital. Technologies are carefully stored, and therefore small villages can surprise even gourmets with cuisine.

Sartsa is an obligatory point of a gastronomic journey through Zakynthos. It includes beef, tomatoes, ladotiri sheep cheese and garlic. Those who have felt this taste remember the impressions of this "chip" of the island for a long time. Skordostubi, consisting of tomatoes, eggplants, olive oil with the addition of garlic, received no less popularity. As in many Greek lands, there is a wonderful myzithra cheese. It can be fresh or salty, but the rule for its use is standard: add honey or sugar. True connoisseurs of delicious dishes recommend Zakynthos-style rabbit cooked in tomato sauce.

Tzatziki sauce is traditional in Greece and is also served in Zakynthos. Pay attention to various pastries with fillings: tropitakia filled with feta or turopita, puff pastries with cheese, meat, spinach, and gyros. This local snack is very nutritious because it includes french fries, tomatoes, fresh herbs and bright sauce.

Order choriyatiki. And yes, they will bring you a classic Greek salad: that is the name it bears in its homeland. However, having tried it, you may not recognize the famous dish. Fresh products make the taste play out in a new way.

Stifado is worth adding to the list - this is veal cooked with onions and tomato sauce, as well as souvlaki. Papoutsakia, yovetsi - these words should fill up the plans for this trip so that Greece remains in the heart forever. Sweet tooth will not be left without pleasant dishes: mandolato will be a real discovery. A mixture of eggs, almonds, honey - nutritious and very tasty. Or, for example, pastels - it looks like a mandolato, only sesame seeds are added instead of an egg. Baklava, nougat, kurabye, various varieties of honey - sweet lovers will be delighted.

Coffee aficionados cannot leave the island without tasting Greek coffee. If you want to drink it with sugar, then order picro or be-metrio, and those who drink coffee very sweet, take glyco. The traditional ritual of drinking coffee is to drink this invigorating drink very slowly so that the aromatic sediment covers the bottom. Tea on Zakynthos is not popular. But there are a lot of different fresh juices here. Of course, it is worth trying the local wine, which cannot be found anywhere else. The export of this drink is not accepted, so to enjoy it away from Zakynthos, bring a bottle as a souvenir. Tourists also like to order ouzo, aniseed vodka, or Metaxa cognac.

Features of Zakynthos

Be careful with gestures! Locals use them in communication very actively, and each has a special meaning. A nod of the head here means denial, so at first you will have to get used to it. But if the Greeks accompany nodding with a click of the tongue, then this is a clear manifestation of skepticism.

It is customary to shake hands here at the first meeting, and further meetings begin with a kiss on both cheeks, and the gender of the interlocutor is unimportant. Get ready for raised tones - for Greek culture, such an expressive manner is quite normal. If you decide to support the condemnation of Greece, be prepared for negative consequences. Locals cannot stand such statements from foreigners.

More

Attractions

Church of St. Dionysius

The patron saint of the island of Zakynthos is Saint Dionysius. In his honor, in the 20th century, a temple was erected on the site of the monastery destroyed by the earthquake. To date, the Church of St. Dionysius is the main Orthodox shrine of the island.

The strong walls of the sanctuary withstood the terrible earthquake of 1953. Its luxurious appearance and rich interior decoration impress the guests of the country.

The temple, built in the Venetian style, stands on the main city embankment. Inside it are stored icons painted by the famous masters Kutuzis and Doxaras. The walls of the temple are decorated with magnificent paintings and frescoes.

A religious museum has been opened at the temple, which presents collections of books, paintings, jewelry and various church utensils.

The main value of the temple are the relics of St. Dionysius. The relics are stored in a silver shrine in the chapel. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world, as well as ordinary tourists who need help, will venerate the relics of the Saint.

Saint Dionysius is revered by the inhabitants of Zakynthos. A young man from a noble Venetian family left home and became a monk. During the years of his life, the Saint performed many miracles. He was loved and respected. In the 18th century he was canonized.

The inhabitants of the island believe that the Saint still protects and protects them. Periodically, the servants of the temple find the worn slippers of St. Dionysius and change them. From here, the inhabitants called the patron "the walking Saint."

Monastery of Our Lady Anafonitria

A popular and valuable attraction of Zakynthos is the monastery of the Virgin Anafonitria. The erection of the monastery is associated with a miraculous event. In the 15th century, local residents discovered an icon of the Mother of God in a tree, which flickered with a bright light. It felt like the icon was screaming. Residents without hesitation decided to build a chapel on an unusual place, which later turned into a monastery.

Now the monastery is not functioning, but is a historical and religious monument. The building of the sanctuary was not damaged by the strongest earthquake of 1953. The interior decoration has retained its beauty. old frescoes are of great value. Their age is over 500 years old. A particularly valuable artifact of the temple is the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, brought from Constantinople. Next to the katholikon there is a chapel built for defensive purposes.

The patron saint of the island, Saint Dionysius, spent the rest of his life in the monastery. His cell and personal belongings were preserved intact.

Not far from the sanctuary is a small colorful village with white one-story houses. The village of Anafonitria is a quiet, non-tourist place where you can take a break from the bustle of the city and take a walk along the quiet streets.

Askos Reserve

Not far from the bay of Agios Nikolaos, there is a fantastic natural monument - the Askos stone reserve. The attraction is the most popular among tourists with children on the island of Zakynthos. Stone Park opened in 2002.

More than 45 species of animals live in the vast territory of the park. A variety of rare species of flora and fauna makes the reserve incredibly beautiful and picturesque.

Little visitors to the petting zoo can pet and feed the animals. The inhabitants of the park should be fed with special food, which is given out by employees.

The park is filled with a variety of old buildings, including stables and warehouses, pools and reservoirs for collecting water. Many buildings are over 600 years old. The stone and wooden structures perfectly complement the style of the park and add a unique feature to it.

Visitors to the park, entering its territory, feel incredible emotions and complete harmony with nature.

With the help of the scheme of the reserve, translated into 25 languages, a walk in the park becomes convenient and comfortable.

Zakynthos Marine Reserve

The turtle island of Zakynthos is famous for its amazing flora and fauna. One of the rarest species that lives in the Mediterranean waters are the Caretta Caretta turtles.

In 1999, the state opened the Marine Reserve in order to preserve a rare species of reptiles.

The vast territory of the reserve is spread in the waters of Zakynthos along the beaches of Laganas, Keri, Limni, Kalamaki and two small islands. The reserve is protected by the state and environmentalists, fishing is strictly prohibited in it.

Turtles crawl out onto a deserted shore only in June and lay their eggs.

It is possible to look at them at other times of the year on a boat trip along Laganas Bay by renting a yacht with a transparent bottom.

In addition to turtles, the reserve protects a rare species of monk seals. Dolphins, porcupines, iguanas and various bird species also live here.

The rarest and endangered species of fauna growing in the waters of the reserve include oceanic poseidonia.

Blue Caves of Zakynthos

An incredibly beautiful place created by nature is located on the island of Zakynthos. Over the millennia, sea waves have formed stone arches leading to blue caves. Each cave has a unique shape and relief. They were called blue because of the clear, light blue water that washed them.

The crystal clear waters of the grottoes are considered healing. They contain minerals and calcium, which have a beneficial effect on the skin.

According to legend, the natural attraction appeared from a magic-colored stone thrown into the water by the Creator.

The impressive grottoes can only be reached from the sea. Excursion ships leave here. You can also rent a boat and head to the sights on your own.

The best time to visit the snow-white caves is morning and evening, when the rays of the sun illuminate the rocks. In stormy weather, you should not go on a trip - it is dangerous.

Caves of Keri

Keri caves are only accessible from the sea. You can go here on a rented boat or boat.

The mesmerizing blue caves and their crystal clear waters enchant tourists. This place is ideal for diving enthusiasts. In the purest water you can see underwater inhabitants - turtles, fur seals, bright various fish.

Volmes

At an altitude of about 500 meters above the sky, the mountain village of Volmes is located. This picturesque place is surrounded by picturesque forests, vineyards and olive groves. It offers stunning views of the island, the coast, the Ionian Sea and Kefalonia.

The settlement is rich in its traditions and history. Volmes was hit by the 1953 earthquake. Some ancient churches, houses and other structures have retained their original appearance. One of these sacred cloisters is the Church of St. Paraskeva. It boasts magnificent wall paintings and ancient icons.

The locals are friendly and welcoming. Life in Volmes is quiet and unhurried. There are no noisy bars and night parties. The atmosphere in the village is imbued with peace and sincerity.

Volmes is famous for its lace, ceramics, handmade carpets and delicious honey, wine and homemade cheese.

Byzantine Museum in Zakynthos

The most interesting and popular museum in Zakynthos is the Byzantine Museum, opened in 1960 on Solomou Square.

The exposition of the museum describes in detail the history of the development of Christian culture in Zakynthos. The Byzantine period brought a huge contribution to the culture of Zakynthos. At this time, the extensive construction of temples and monasteries began, icon painting developed. The Byzantine era was reflected in the further art of Zakynthos.

The exhibits of the museum cover a vast period of time - from the Byzantine era up to the 19th century. A rich collection consists of magnificent frescoes, ancient rare icons, and sculptures.

Of particular value are the carved iconostases of the 16th century, a fragment of the facade of the church of St. Andrew Volimsky.

On the ground floor there is a model of the city before the earthquake. A sculpture gallery and an art gallery are open.

The exposition of the museum is constantly updated. Periodically, cultural events are held within its walls.

Navagio Bay

Navagio Bay or, in other words, smugglers' bay, attracts tourists from all over the world. The main attraction of this place is a rusty ship that was wrecked during a severe storm in the 80s of the last century. The ship was carrying smuggled goods. During the crash, the crew managed to escape, and the ship remained a local property. Tourists who have visited the bay scratch out commemorative inscriptions on the ship.

Navagio Bay is a picturesque place that can only be reached from the sea. The impregnable rocks enclosed it and protected it from the wind. You can admire the incredible landscape from the observation deck located on the rock. White sand on the beach and azure water give the place a unique paradise look.