Zakynthos, Zante, Zacinto (its Italian name), Hyrie, Il fiore di Levante … it’s no wonder that the island has so many names, given its fascinating history. If you are looking for inspiration and useful tips for your upcoming vacation in Zante, you came to the right place. As a local insider, I will show you how to enjoy this destination to the max. This article will help you to pick the best things to do in Zante!
Things to do in Zante
Zante is the third-largest in the archipelago of the Ionian Islands. It is one of the best-loved Greek tourist destinations, mostly famous for its gorgeous beaches and sea turtles. But there is more to Zante. The island has a rich cultural heritage and there are lots of fun things to do.
A short history of Zante
For history buffs like myself, Zante will not be disappointing. The island was already mentioned by Homer in the Iliad. During the Roman period, Zante became an important strategic place. It was also part of the Venetian empire for three centuries. During this time, the island flourished from both a cultural and architectonic point of view. In fact, it received the name of Florence of Greece!
After, the multicultural character of the island was enhanced by the domination of the French, the Russian-Turkish, and the British. In 1864, Zante reunited with Greece.
Things to do Zante Laganas
Laganas is the most famous and busiest resort of the island. It is particularly popular to young people as well as families. Laganas is located on the southern part of Zante at the longest beach of the island with a length of 9 km.
1. Nightlife
Laganas is packed with countless bars, clubs, pubs, cafés, and more. There is a constant party vibe, and it’s the place for anyone who is looking to have a good time. At night, the main road of Laganas is the most crowded spot of the island. The best club in Zante is Cherry Bay.
2. Cameo Island
From Laganas, you can visit Cameo Island. This island is the second most photographed place in Zante after the famous Shipwreck Beach. Cameo Island is located opposite Laganas within the Marine Park. You can reach it in 8 minutes on foot by a wooden bridge from the beach.
3. Marathonisi
Marathonisi is a beautiful small island across from Laganas. Its breathtaking beach with fine white sand, pines, and olive trees is a must-visit. The island is a protected area and
that is why you can only visit certain parts of the beach. You can go to Marathonisi by taxi boat, organized excursion, or by renting your own boat.
Things to do Zante town
Zante town has a beautiful architecture and a large main square where you should have a coffee. Note that not all buildings in Zante town are historic. In 1953, much of the rich architectonic history of the island was destroyed by an earthquake.
4. The Byzantine Museum
Art lovers should head over to the beautiful Byzantine Museum, located at the main square. Here you can admire Byzantine icons carved in the wood, original frescoes from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries, as well as examples of post Byzantine art and Greek contemporary art.
5. Things to do Zante: The Museum of Solomos
The Museum of Dionysios Solomos is for anyone interested in Greek history. Solomos was a local Greek poet. He is considered to be Greece’s national poet. His most famous work is the Hymn to Liberty, aka the Greek national anthem.
6. Hill of Strani
For a beautiful panoramic view over Zante town, head over to Strani Hill. Sit down on one of the rocks and feel like Dionysios Solomos who wrote the national Greek anthem here. You can combine your visit to Strani Hill with the Castle of Bohali that I will mention later on.
Fun things to do in Zante
Zante is full of treasures and there are a lot of fun things to do. Many of these activities take place in or around the beautiful emerald waters of the island.
7. Shipwreck Beach Boat Tour
The most famous spot in Zante is Shipwreck Beach or Navagio. It has an impressive landscape with limestone cliffs, and there is a rusty shipwreck on the white sand. Shipwreck beach is a real tourist attraction. You can admire it by joining an organized boat tour.
8. Water sports
On Zante, you can dive, try jet ski, water ski, parasailing and more. Zante is a great island for boating and I recommend you to hire your own. By private boat, you can visit the beautiful Keri Caves located on the southwestern coast.
9. Sea Turtles and the Marine Park
Zante is famous for its sea turtles called Caretta-Caretta. Several places on the island are protected by Greek and international legislation as a breeding place of these endangered species. Laganas Beach, Marathonissi, and Gerakas are part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. If you want to learn more about these special creatures, visit the Zante Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center.
Things to do in Zante with family
Families will have a great time in Zante. Most beaches are child-friendly and there are a lot of entertainment options for young and older kids.
10. The Castle of Bohali
Does your family like castles? In Zante, you can find the Venetian Castle of Bohali, located just on the outskirts of the capital town. Kids can enjoy playing knights or queens, while parents can marvel at the architectural wonder and the magnificent panoramic views over Zante town and the Ionian Sea.
11. Water parks
All kids love water parks and in Zante, there are two! Zante Water Village is one of the biggest water parks in Greece, situated on the southeast part of the island, 4 km away from the main town. Tsilivi Water Park is at the beach of Tsilivi. Ideal for families who want to combine a beach day with fun at the water games!
12. Fun Parks
Need some adrenaline family fun? In Laganas you will find go-karts, and Formula Zante, the largest track in Zante. With young kids, head over to the Careta Fun Park Center in Kalamaki, There are bouncy castles, a trampoline, go-karts, water balls and many coin games. End your day with lunch or dinner at the snack bar-pizzeria.
Zante has something to do for everyone
From beautiful nature to art and fun, Zante has something to do for everyone. And with this list of the best things to do in Zante, you can start exploring the island. Whether you are with friends, family or traveling solo. Don’t hesitate, book and see for yourself!
Καλό ταξίδι! (Have a nice trip)
