7 Inspiring Places to Visit when in Zante
The beautiful island of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, lies in the Ionian archipelago, boasting with sites and landmarks to visit, offering all enthusiastic visitors with lots to see and places to visit. Zante is world-famous for its sun-kissed golden coastlines, glistening turquoise waters and deep-rooted traditions and culture. Let’s take a look…
The best way to explore Zakynthos Town is on foot. Walk through its cobblestoned streets, take a breather by the town’s stunning squares, and explore its landmarks from corner to corner. Zakynthos Town resembles an open-air museum, boasting with hidden cultural heritage; inspiring museums and astounding architecture which have are traced back to the Venetian and Byzantine times.
Saint Dionysios is the island’s patron saint; therefore it goes without saying that the largest and most extravagant church found in Zante Town was built and dedicated to Saint Dionysios. The elaborate architectural style of the church resembles Saint Marcus Church that is found in Venice. Inside the church lays the sacred body of Saint Dionysios.
The most popular square of Zante Town was named after Dionysios Solomos, a world-famed Greek poet. Within the square you come upon a dominating yet beautiful statue of the famous poet. Dionysios Solomos Square is surrounded by other must-see landmarks like the Byzantine Museum, the Cultural Centre of Zakynthos and Saint Nikolaos Church which are equally outstanding landmarks to visit.
The famed Smugglers Cove, also known as Navagio Beach, is the most photographed beach on the island! Most have already seen the picture postcard of the blue cove before visiting the island. The soft-white bay and glistening crystalline blue waters are surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs that soar into the blue sky. In the middle of the bay, there is a shipwreck that decorates the sea-bed of a smuggler’s ship.
Zante’s amazing Keri Caves are famed for their high-arched limestone cliffs and crystal blue waters. The caves differ in size. The bigger caves allow boats to pass and explore them from the inside which are ideal for adventurers who feel like exploring the underwater. Those who are lucky enough will also meet a variety of sea animals like the Monk Seal and the Caretta Caretta sea turtles.
Marathonissi is a tiny little turtle-shaped islet that floats in Laganas’ waters and has long been home to the Caretta Caretta sea turtles. There are numerous myths surrounding the isle and its characteristic shape. The most popular legend entails that past civilisations carved the island-forming a turtle in honour of the Caretta Caretta turtles.
Last but not least, every wanderluster must visit Bohali which decorates the peak of a hill located just 2 kilometres from Zante Town. From the peak of Bohali visitors can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the charismatic fishing port, narrow alleys and traditional neighbourhoods underneath of the town below.
Zakynthos has it all starting from a sun-kissed coastline and crystalline waters, rich cultural heritage and fascinating landmarks, making it one of the top holiday destinations of our times! Beautiful, historic and rich in culture are all the words that best describe this magical island. Stay tuned for more!