10 spots not to miss in Zakynthos, Greece!
The beautiful Greek island, Zakynthos, also known as the Fior Di Levante (flower of the East) is the Ionians gem. With its cypress-covered mountains and emerald-green waters, Zakynthos invites its visitors to uncover its natural and historic treasures. Zakynthos has long been a hot tourist destination for a simple reason, it has it all! From sun-kissed beaches, natural landscapes and timeless villages to bustling and cosmopolitan towns, fascinating museums and inspiring historic monuments and temples, Zakynthos surpasses the expectations of even the most discerning tourists.
Visitors are always disorientated when stepping foot on the island. Why? Well it’s simple. Zakynthos is home to thousands of sites and landmarks to visit and no one knows where to start from and what to leave behind! We are here to help! We have put together a list of the top attractions every tourist should visit when holidaying in Zakynthos!
Zakynthos Town is the island’s bustling capital and the place to start your exploration! Zakynthos Town is best explored on foot as it is the only way you can soak in and discover each of its corners. The town boasts with beautiful squares, Neo-Classical buildings and lively port.
Keri Village is the place to be if you are a wine lover! The village is surrounded by a plethora of blossoming vineyards and is famed for its local wine. Keri was one of the few areas on the island which was not destroyed by the devastating 1953 earthquake and for this reason the village has succeeded in maintaining its original identity. Defined by its outstanding stone-made building and cobblestoned lanes, Keri transports its visitors to the island’s past. Keri Lake, which flows below the village, is home to numerous plants and animals.
The mountainous village Volimes is home to the renowned Agia Paraskevi Church, a Venetian Baroque cathedral, where you will find the most impressive iconostasis. The timeless village is famed for its fine traditional textiles and linen.
Besides being one of the most stunning bays on the island, Laganas Bay is also a breeding ground for the loggerhead turtle which come ashore to lay their eggs. A part of the bay is protected to allow the turtles to lay their eggs. Who knows…you may be lucky enough to watch this natural miracle take place right in front of you!
Amongst the finest natural wonders of Zakynthos, the Blue Caves are made up of natural rock formations of caverns and arches. It is said the sapphire waters glisten for miles on end and are so clear you can see right to the bottom. The waters are so blue due to the sun’s reflection between the arches, which also contrasts sharply with the surrounding whitewashed caves.
Navagio Beach is Zakynthos most known landmark. The golden cove is encircled by towering white cliffs that highlight the green-blue waters of the bay. Navagio Beach is also known as the Shipwreck Bay because of a ship that is partially buried in the golden sand of the sheltered bay. As the story goes, the ship was smuggling illegal cigarettes and in its attempt to flee authorities it shipwrecked at Navagio Beach.
The educational Helmis Natural History Museum is a haven for all you nature lovers! The museum showcases more than 1500 types of the island’s flora and fauna. The museum provides the perfect family outing as its collection is not only insightful and educational but also fun!
The sleepy mountainous village of Anafonitria features the stunning 15th century Byzantine monastery, which was built in honour of the Virgin Mary. The island’s patron saint, Saint Dionysios, was a monk at the monastery who lived his last years there.
Dionysios Solomos Square is probably the most renowned square on the island which features numerous statues and busts. The most prominent statue is that of the Greek national poet, Dionysios Solomos, who wrote the Greek National Anthem. Another famous square is Saint Marco Square, where you will find the insightful Museum of Dionysios Solomos & Andreas Kalvos, which was founded in the late 1950s and exhibits both the poets work, pictures and original manuscripts.
Saint Dionysios Church is the island’s biggest and most celebrated church. The dominating cathedral lies on the shoreline of Zakynthos Town and is dedicated to the island’s patron saint, St. Dionysios. Having survived the devastating earthquake of 1953, the church was built in 1948. Its soaring bell tower is so high you can easily spot it from all corners of the island. The church is decorated with impressive frescoes, elaborate colours and lavish lamp holders. During the night the church is illuminated, creating the perfect atmosphere and sea vistas.
Zakynthos has been blessed with all year long sunshine, scenic landscapes and golden bays, marking it the hottest holiday destination of our times! Zakynthos is ideal for honeymooners, family holiday or a group of friends travelling together. The island’s indescribable beauty and mesmerising culture will captivate you in an instant!