3 Days In Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a marvellous island blessed with unspoilt natural

beauty and stunning beaches; in addition to its many natural
ecosystems, it also features a vibrant nightlife. Here is
our guide to spending three days in Zakynthos, Greece.

How To Get There

By Air: Zakynthos has a small airport, which connects it to Athens with daily flights
all year around. During the high season, low-cost airlines also connect the island to
many other European countries including France, England and Belgium as well
as to Kefalonia, Corfu and Thessaloniki, but not daily.
By Sea: The islands main port is connected to Killini, a small harbor town in the
Peloponnese, with a one-hour ferry trip. It is also possible to reach Zakynthos
from Kefalonia during the summer months from Pessada port.
By bus or private vehicle: There are frequent departures from Athens, Thessaloniki
and Patra with a direct link to Zakynthos by car or bus ferry.

What To Do
DAY 1: Navagio beach and the Blue Caves
Most of the western coast of Zakynthos is characterized by steep cliffs plunging
straight into the sea. There are a couple of spectacular places you can reach by car
that you shouldnt miss during your stay, one of which is the Navagio beach (or
Shipwreck beach). So rent a car and head west; the whole region is worth a
thorough exploration, from the Eleftherotria Monastery, near Macherado,
to Kiliomeno, a small village where you can admire stunning panoramas of the
surrounding countryside and the sea.
From Agios Leon continue to Maries, then Anafonitria. At that point, the road
takes you through kilometers of lush forest and vegetation as it departs from the
coastline. Past Anafonitria, the road leads to Volimes, where you will take the only
road on your left to an abandoned parking lot. Dont be scared; just walk down to
the edge, and youll soon be able to admire the Navagio beach from above. Be
careful though, as there are no barriers and the ground at the edge cannot be
trusted.
Once youre finished taking in the scenery, drive back to Anafonitria to reach Porto
Vromi, a tiny harbor with daily trips to the Navagio beach during peak season. The
Renata Boat offers trips to the infamous beach and to the Blue Caves and other
popular sites, as well as private boat rides. If you are visiting the island in the off
season, you might get lucky and find a fisherman willing to drop you at the beach
and let you enjoy it for half a day or more if you want.
DAY 2: Keri Caves and Marathonisi

From Zakynthos town, follow the road to Laganas and continue past Lithakia. You
will arrive at the bay of Limni Keri, where you will see the turtle-shaped
island Marathonisi across the bay. The place is, surprisingly, a nesting cove for
turtles. You can take a small boat to reach this turtle paradise or contact EcoZante (if
you are an experienced diver) or Nero Diving Center for a diving session at the Keri
Caves nearby.

After lunch, you can opt to spend the rest of the day at the beach near the small
harbor, or take your car and drive to the secluded Cape Marathia beach. For
sunset, head to the picture-perfect village of Keri, where you will think time has
come to a standstill. Drive to the lighthouse, where you may find people waiting for
the sunset, but dont stop therefollow the little path to the right to enjoy a majestic
view over the bay in relative seclusion.
DAY 3: Vassilikos and Zakynthos town

This is your last day, so dont waste it. Head straight to Gerakas beach; this
extensive beach is probably one of the best on the island, boasting fine golden sand
and turquoise waters. It is also the nesting place for the Caretta caretta turtle. The
beach is well-maintained and protected by Zakynthos National Marine Park.
If, on the other hand, you are tired of sunbathing, head to Zakynthos town and visit
the handful of landmarks and museums available. The town also features the only
catholic church on the island, St Marcos. Otherwise, stay put; youve got to enjoy
your holiday until the last minute.